Honolulu airport third-worst, Say residency unresolved, Kona woman fights for judgeship, sewer spill on Sand Island, Kauai councilwoman wants GET tax for buses, hearing to be held on Ebola, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu International Airport, courtesy Hawaii state government

Hawaii's main airport is the third-worst in North America in a recent survey of travelers. Honolulu International is not as bad as top-ranked LaGuardia International Airport in New York, or second-ranked Los Angeles International Airport, according to users of online travel site www.sleepinginairports.net. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii politics is in transition in the wake of the death of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and the retirement of U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka. The churn at the top has caused political uncertainty that might take several election cycles to settle. Here's a rundown of potentially competitive state House and Senate campaigns, which is based on information provided from political analysts, party strategists, campaign consultants and lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

After nearly three decades in Hawaii politics, in a career that has seen roughly as many dramatic wins as huge losses, Mufi Hannemann has not lost his self-confidence. Civil Beat.

State House Speaker Joseph Souki said the House will not take up a challenge to former Speaker Calvin Say's residency before the November elections. Six Palolo voters have questioned whether Say lives in the Palolo state House district he has represented since 1976 or whether he actually lives with his family in Pauoa Valley. The voters lost a legal challenge in Circuit Court but plan to appeal. Star-Advertiser.

The speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives says the chamber will not immediately consider a request to investigate Rep. Calvin Say’s residency qualifications. In a letter dated Oct. 17 to Lance Collins, the attorney for six Palolo residents who argue that Say no longer lives in District 20 and so should not represent them, Speaker Joe Souki said it would be “inappropriate” to address the “numerous assertions” made in Collins’ letter. Civil Beat.

Hawaii House Speaker Joseph Souki says the Legislature will not immediately resolve claims about the residency of Rep. Calvin Say. Say had been challenged in court by six Palolo voters who claim his main residence is outside the district. Say has represented the Palolo district for more than three decades. Associated Press.

As hospitals across the country prepare for a potential Ebola case, Hawaii officials are working on new guidelines to keep the state safe from the deadly virus. The director of Hawaii's Department of Health will also outline the state's strategy at a hearing this week at the state Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Local officials are ramping up efforts to keep people in Hawaii safe from the Ebola virus. A new treatment protocol to deal with Ebola in Hawaii may be released later this week at a hearing at the State Capitol. KHON2.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit has vacated a federal district court’s judgment in Jackson v. Abercrombie. The lawsuit challenged Hawaii’s 1998 ballot decision to give the Hawaii Legislature the authority to restrict marriage to one man and own woman. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s highly celebrated technology and cybersecurity czar started a new job Monday as the U.S. Treasury Department’s deputy assistant secretary and chief information officer. Sanjeev “Sonny” Bhagowalia spent the past three years helping the state develop and implement a 12-year plan to pull itself out of the dark ages and into the information age. Civil Beat.

Oahu

More than 100 workers and a dozen private contractors are scrambling to repair the critical Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant that was flooded by Hurricane Ana, which left behind 20 million gallons of untreated sludge that overwhelmed the plant Sunday morning and left it without power. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Karen Awana sharply criticized a plan Monday that calls for using a rural property on the Waianae Coast as a place to store and dispose of a large cache of illegal fireworks. The commercial-grade fireworks are the remnants of a stash that was involved in the 2011 explosion at a Waikele storage bunker that killed five people. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii will be examining dumped chemical weapons in deep water off the south coast of Oahu for the last time to see what effects they have on seawater, marine life and sediment. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell plans to hold three public town hall-style meetings this week to address the affordable housing crisis on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

The videotape beating of a bystander by a Honolulu police officer has prompted a crackdown on bad behavior within the HPD's elite crime reduction units. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Why It’s So Difficult to Prosecute Domestic Abuse in Hawaii. Honolulu's prosecutor weighs in on domestic violence and actions that he's hoping will help ease the situation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

An army of public officials rushed to the defense of Margaret Masunaga, a Hawaii County deputy corporation counsel, after the Hawaii State Bar Association deemed her unqualified to be a district judge. West Hawaii Today.

A plan to open a recycling redemption center in the Seaview Center subdivision has some neighbors concerned. West Hawaii Today.

The leading edge of the June 27 lava flow remained at a standstill Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is providing early walk-in voting in Puna in case the June 27 lava flow interferes with Election Day. Tribune-Herald.

A University of Hawaii professor submitted a stinging critique of the planned expansion of a West Hawaii fish farm. The final environmental assessment, which included Frazer’s comments, was released several days ago. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Island of Maui was dethroned from its top spot as the best island in the world after earning the accolade for 20 consecutive years between and 1993 and 2013 in the annual ranking conducted by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. Maui Now.

Some Maui residents are not happy about the Health Department's new rules on cesspools. They claim the rules do not consider the interests of rural communities on the Neighbor Islands, where the vast majority of cesspools in the state are located. Hawaii Public Radio.

About 1,100 free-roaming and feral cats loiter around Kanaha Beach Park and surrounding areas in Kahului, according to a December survey, and researchers say "serious management attention" should be paid to control the cat population in that region. Maui News.

Researchers are concerned about the number of cats near a Maui wildlife sanctuary that's home to endangered birds. A survey in an area that includes Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary found more than 1,000 free-roaming and feral cats. Associated Press.

Kauai

Kauai County Councilwoman JoAnn Yukimura says more must be done to ensure that the county’s public transportation system remains viable and becomes a key part in alleviating traffic congestion throughout the island. A proposal that Yukimura is slated to introduce during Wednesday’s County Council meeting could allow for one of those funding sources to be a county surcharge tacked on to the state’s 4 percent general excise tax, which is levied on business activities in Hawaii and is reflected on many consumer purchases, including food and groceries. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health is requesting access to Grove Farm Company property in Mahaulepu in an effort to pinpoint how large amounts of bacteria are ending up Waiopili Stream. Garden Island.

The state Intermediate Court of Appeals dealt a setback to the owner of a former North Shore commercial boatyard owner in his attempts to prove the County of Kauai had revoked his operation permit for a false purpose. Garden Island.

Friends of Mahaulepu will host a public meeting Thursday to discuss legal remedies concerning Hawaii Dairy Farms’ proposed $17.5 million, 578-acre dairy in Mahaulepu Valley. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe
Promised Land: ‘Where Beauty is Alongside the Ugliness’ SECOND OF THREE PARTS: As they sweat through the monumental task of restoring an island decimated by ranching, goats and bombs, workers' efforts are infused with respect for its history and significance to Native Hawaiians. But at least one activist questions whether it's worth all the effort. Civil Beat.

Hot weather harming coral reefs, unions tighten grip on Hawaii, groundbreaking today for one of world's largest telescopes, teachers union creates new PAC to fight ballot initiative, lava viewing curtailed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Teardrop butterflyfish amid damaged coral © 2014 All Hawaii News

The hot, muggy weather that's stifled Hawaii in recent weeks appears to have spurred widespread coral bleaching across the state, and researchers say it's the most severe degradation of coral that they've ever observed in Hawaii waters. Star-Advertiser.

While people in Hawaii have been sweating out a lack of trade winds, corals underwater also are suffering. Scientists standing in the muggy heat at Heeia Small Boat Harbor in Kaneohe said Monday they’re seeing more evidence higher-than-normal ocean temperatures are causing near-shore bleaching across the islands. Associated Press.

A new law championed by Hawaii’s most powerful unions has tilted the balance in favor of organized labor in a critical arena, although the effects on employers — and possibly taxpayers — won’t be fully realized for a few years. With little public fanfare, the Legislature last session passed a bill that changes how the governor appoints people to the Hawaii Labor Relations Board, a quasi-judicial agency that resolves labor disputes involving private and public sector employees and the organizations that represent them. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association terminated its campaign to discourage voters from approving a constitutional amendment dealing with preschools last week after realizing it risked breaking the law by spending money on a ballot measure through its political action committee. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has named four nominees to serve on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents and fill vacancies triggered by the state's new financial disclosure law. Star-Advertiser.

Mufi Hannemann, the Hawaii Independent Party candidate for governor, has said if he wins election in November one of his top priorities will be to bring back an inter-island ferry system. He made a similar pledge during his failed bid for governor in 2010. Hannemann’s most recent financial disclosure report shows he owns stock in two companies that are working on the design and development of advanced ship hull forms and researching lifting hull technologies. Civil Beat.

VoteVets Action Fund, a national veterans advocacy group, will spend $800,000 on an advertising campaign to boost candidates in three races across the country, including that of Hawaii state Rep. Mark Takai. Takai, a progressive Democrat running for the District 1 Congressional seat, will take on former Congressman Charles Djou, a Republican who served in 2010, in the November general election. Hawaii Reporter.

Rebuffed by the courts, six Palolo voters asked the state House on Monday to determine whether state Rep. and former House Speaker Calvin Say lives in the Palolo House district he has represented since 1976. Star-Advertiser.

The six Palolo voters challenging Calvin Say’s qualifications to hold office are not giving up, despite a court’s rejection of their lawsuit last week. Civil Beat.

Inmates who say they’re being denied their right to practice their Native Hawaiian religion at a private prison in Arizona have won class-action status for a lawsuit. U.S. District Court Judge Leslie Kobayashi granted class-action certification to inmates suing the state of Hawaii and the Corrections Corporation of America. Associated Press.

The new head of the Hawaii Health Connector, Jeffrey Kissel, said Monday that his first priority will be helping consumers smoothly get through the enrollment period starting Nov. 15. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: It is not always huge campaign donations that buy political candidates media exposure. Take the Hawaii governor’s race. Hawaii Independent Party candidate Mufi Hannemann and Libertarian Party contender Jeff Davis have found a way to get additional exposure on Hawaii media outlets at the same time they are running for office. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A University of Hawaii at Manoa student organization has passed resolutions voting no confidence in UH President David Lassner and the Board of Regents. Star-Advertiser.

The Navy plans a fourth controlled detonation at Kalaeloa this week to destroy various munitions and ordnances that have been found. Star-Advertiser.

Median home prices on Oahu remained flat in September, while the number of sales of single-family homes rose 5 percent, according to data released Tuesday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Sales statistics set for release Tuesday by the Honolulu Board of Realtors show that the median sale price for previously owned single-family houses on the island edged up by 0.5 percent to $678,500 in September from $675,000 in the same month a year earlier. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A groundbreaking and Hawaiian blessing ceremony launches construction on the summit of Mauna Kea to build one of the world's largest telescopes. The events for the $1.4 billion Thirty Meter Telescope project Tuesday will be shown via a live-stream webcast because of limited access to the construction site, which is in an area with harsh physical conditions. Associated Press.

After years of challenges, groundbreaking begins Tuesday on one of the world's largest optical telescopes, which will rise out of sacred Hawaiian ground at an elevation of 13,150 feet near the summit of Mauna Kea. Star-Advertiser.

USGS geologists with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory estimate the Puna lava flow could reach Apa'a Street in Pahoa in about 16 days, if it continues moving at its current rate of 390 ft/day. Hawaii News Now.

The June 27 lava flow sparked a brush fire as it continued its progress toward Pahoa on Monday. Meanwhile, Civil Defense officials, in conjunction with the Federal Aviation Administration, have restricted the airspace above the leading edge of the flow in response to increased traffic of sightseers and media personnel. Tribune-Herald.

The Puna lava flow is becoming big business for Big Island tour companies, but Hawaii County Civil Defense officials say tour groups were getting too close to the flow and to each other. Working with the FAA, civil defense has implemented new air space restrictions above the flow. Hawaii News Now.

An aerial survey Monday morning showed the June 27 flow front continues to be active and has advanced approximately 150 yards since Sunday, according to Hawaii County Civil Defense. West Hawaii Today.

A former Hawaii County Council member will complete a vacated term on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

More than a month after the launch of an expensive TV campaign to persuade voters to reject a Maui County ballot initiative to temporarily ban genetically engineered crops, the Hawaii Center for Food Safety has formed a new group called the Coalition for Safer, Healthier Maui to campaign in favor of the measure. Civil Beat.

For the first time in more than a century, there will be a continuous flow of water from mauka to makai into the Wailuku (ʻĪao) Stream on Maui. Maui Now.

The Maui Tropical Plantation has embodied Hawaii's past and present for the past three decades as an agricultural and tourism destination. Maui News.

Kauai

Two Kauai County Council members will introduce a resolution Wednesday that would establish a committee to investigate the implementation of county laws dealing with the dedication of land for agricultural use. Maui News.

Circuit Court tosses former Speaker Calvin Say's residency challenge, gubernatorial candidates differ on budget, new boss for Kamehameha Schools, Hawaii County builds roads to dodge lava flow, Maui to talk GMO, coral bleaching worsens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former House Speaker Calvin Say © 2014 All Hawaii News

A Circuit Court judge Tuesday dismissed a legal challenge to state Rep. and former House Speaker Calvin Say's residency, ruling that the state House has the exclusive power to determine the qualifications of its members. Star-Advertiser.

Calvin Say has survived another challenge to his legal residency. In a ruling released Tuesday, Circuit Judge Karen Nakasone said Hawaii courts do not have authority to “judge” the qualifications of House members. That authority resides with the House, which intervened in a lawsuit challenging Say’s residency. Civil Beat.

A Circuit Court judge has dismissed a petition that asks the court to verify the residence of state Rep. Calvin Say. KHON2.

Hawaii gubernatorial candidates had tough questions for their opponents as they debated starting new public-private partnerships to address recurring problems and sparred over who would inflict less pain while balancing the budget. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s top three candidates for governor took on many issues — from the expected to the improbable — during Tuesday evening’s debate. But it remains unclear whether specific policy stances will drive voters on Nov. 4 when they choose between Democrat David Ige, Republican Duke Aiona, Hawaii Independent Party candidate Mufi Hannemann and Libertarian Jeff Davis. Civil Beat.

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann on Tuesday night tried to pin state Sen. David Ige with responsibility for the state's troubled public hospitals, but Ige countered that he has done more than the other two gubernatorial candidates to improve the system. Star-Advertiser.

KITV4 hosted three candidates gunning for the governorship in the station's first televised debate among the final gubernatorial candidates.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he has far more executive experience than the other two leading candidates for governor, but they said they have backgrounds that prepare them to lead state government. Hawaii News Now.

State Public Safety Director Ted Sakai, named the nation's Outstanding Director of Corrections on Tuesday, said his department is unveiling a pilot program on wellness this month that aims to reduce prison guard sick calls, starting at Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Mark Takai are making last-minute pitches for more money as their tight congressional race enters its final 35 days. Civil Beat.

Livingston "Jack" Wong, who has been the interim CEO of Kamehameha Schools since April when CEO Dee Jay Mailer retired, has been named the third CEO of the $10.1 billion trust, Hawaii's largest private landowner. Pacific Business News.

Warm ocean temperatures have caused large expanses of coral to bleach in the pristine reefs northwest of Hawaii's main islands, scientists said Tuesday. Mass bleaching has occurred at Lisianski atoll, about 1,000 miles northwest of Honolulu, said Courtney Couch, a researcher at the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology. Coral also bleached at Midway, Pearl and Hermes atolls, but not as severely. Associated Press.

A federal research ship returned to Honolulu from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands on Tuesday with evidence of aquatic species never seen before and having made discoveries of fishes never before recorded in those waters. But scientists also documented some distressing news: a major episode of coral bleaching at remote Lisianski Island, plus moderate bleaching at Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and Pearl and Hermes Atoll. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

State lawmakers Tuesday grilled Honolulu's police chief and two of his deputies on policies regarding domestic violence investigations — seeking answers about how officers respond to calls and about what's being done in response to video showing an officer in an apparent assault on his girlfriend. Star-Advertiser.

A Joint Legislative Committee on Public Safety convened an informational briefing today on the Honolulu Police Department’s response to domestic violence cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell plans to create a temporary office to manage city properties, acquire housing for the homeless and advance his affordable housing strategy at a cost of about $500,000 a year, the city’s managing director says. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers and Hawaiian Electric Co. want to give utility customers who don't own rooftop space the opportunity to take advantage of certain benefits of renewable energy. The plan is to create community solar farms or "solar gardens" that give people the option to invest in large-scale solar systems and lower their electrical bills. Star-Advertiser.

Duo bucks eviction from DHHL parcel hosting small farm. A petting zoo on land in Waimanalo has local support as it fights to remain. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state Office of Elections was “absurdly out of touch” with the situation in Puna after Tropical Storm Iselle, state Sen. Russell Ruderman said Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

The June 27 lava flow remains weak while inflation, a sign of intruding magma, gradually builds at Kilauea. Tribune-Herald.

VIDEO: Lava Anxiety Triggers Nanawale Exodus. Big Island Video News.

In less than three weeks, Hawai'i County crews completed two emergency bypass roads in the lower Puna area in preparation for the very real possibility that the June 27th lava flow will cut across Highway 130 -- but work is a little slower to begin on a third, and likely the most critical route: Chain of Craters Road, which passes through Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii County plans to reinforce its restrictions on accessing Kaohe Homesteads after a tour company was found to be using the neighborhood to reach the June 27 lava flow. County Civil Defense Administrator Darryl Oliveira said a supplemental emergency proclamation will be issued shortly specifically prohibiting tour groups. Tribune-Herald.

Fall enrollment at University of Hawaii at Hilo declined for the second year in a row, despite hopes by administrators the university could maintain last year’s student levels. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

"Living Downwind from Monsanto's GMO Fields, are We Risking Our Health?" is the title of a panel discussion to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 6:30 p.m. at the Kihei Community Center. Maui Weekly.

Maui Electric Co. proposes to reduce customer bills by, among other things, switching from costly diesel fuel to lower-cost liquefied natural gas for its electric generation plants, but Maui County Energy Commissioner Doug McLeod is challenging other parts of the utility's power supply improvement plans and questioning the long-term viability of natural gas. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council will consider today a set of seven measures that aim to reform current real property tax laws and assist some property owners who received noticeable increases on their tax bills over the past two months. Garden Island.

Craig DeCosta, Daniel Hempey, and Greg Meyers will each be known as Judge, effective Oct. 1. Garden Island.

Big bucks pouring into GMO battle, homeless tent city planned for Sand Island, Supreme Court dismisses election challenge, Abercrombie to appeal FEMA rejection, group appeals Thirty Meter Telescope ruling, hospital layoffs loom, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii GMO researcher James Brewbaker, courtesy photo

The Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation is planning a $400,000 public relations campaign to generate support for farmers and persuade voters to support genetic engineering in agriculture. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a primary election challenge by the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii, which had alleged that six voters on Hawaii island had been deprived of their constitutional right to vote by the state's actions in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court sided with the state today and dismissed an election challenge launched by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Big Island voters who were unable to cast ballots on Aug. 9 due to Tropical Storm Iselle. Civil Beat.

The state Supreme Court has rejected an ACLU lawsuit on behalf of voters in Puna. The American Civil Liberties Union and six Puna voters say they were denied their right to vote because the election was held when conditions after Tropical Storm Iselle made it impossible for them to leave their homes. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court rejected a lawsuit seeking to allow voters on the storm-damaged Big Island to vote. The court said in an opinion released Thursday that it didn’t have jurisdiction to grant the relief sought by the American Civil Liberties Union with the lawsuit. Associated Press.

The financially strapped Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, which runs 13 state hospital facilities across Hawaii, announced Thursday it will lay off less than one percent of its workforce, but warned more layoffs may be looming. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of people who work for Hawaii’s public hospital system are expected to receive official notices within the next week that they are going to be laid off. The Hawaii Health Systems Corporation said Thursday that it is implementing a system-wide reduction in force, eliminating positions as early as mid-December, to help address a $48 million shortfall for fiscal 2015. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s recent hearings in Hawai‘i revealed a number of those testifying believe the U.S. government does not have jurisdiction over these islands. The Interior Department hearings are a starting point for a broader discussion this coming Tuesday at the William S. Richardson School of Law. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii tourism officials are courting about a dozen airlines not currently serving Hawaii, which they hope will some day set up shop here. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge in Hawaii says she won't consider approving $2.4 million in settlements for hundreds of Thai farm workers until the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission holds a news conference clarifying that the agreements are still subject to court approval. The EEOC is planning a news conference in Honolulu on Friday to comply with the order. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city is negotiating with the state to use vacant property at Sand Island as a temporary site for Oahu's homeless individuals and families to set up tents and receive help from service providers, Caldwell administration officials told members of the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s homeless may have a new housing option — tents on Sand Island. Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s administration has been working to procure a parcel of land on the small island off of Honolulu Harbor as a temporary housing solution for the street homeless population. Civil Beat.

State Rep. Calvin Say's residency in the district he represents and his ability to continue to represent that district in Hawaii’s state House is being threatened in state Circuit Court. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Electric Co. President and CEO Dick Rosenblum defended the utility's proposed rate changes Thursday, including the $55 minimum rate for all customers and higher monthly charge for new solar owners. Star-Advertiser.

The USS Missouri Memorial Association, Inc., is looking at new markets to generate revenue to pay for improvements and maintenance for the Battleship Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor, and has hired a sales manager within the past year to focus on the China and Japan visitor markets for one of Hawaii's most popular visitor attractions. Pacific Business News.

Members of the City Council on Thursday continued to explore Honolulu's nascent paid ride-sharing industry and openly asked whether it should be up to the city or state to impose regulations similar to the rules required of the city's 1,500 taxicab drivers. Star-Advertiser.

There could be fewer moderate-priced homes in the Ward Village master-planned community in Kakaako if the state approves a request from project developer Howard Hughes Corp. Star-Advertiser.

The books and computers are ready, but more than three years after construction began, students at Waialua Elementary School still can’t use their new library and media center. Construction began in Jan. 2011. Now, there’s a $3.3 million building on campus that looks ready to use, but sits empty. KHON2.

Hawaii

The state plans to appeal a decision by the Federal Emergency Management Agency denying a request for a major disaster declaration that would provide federal aid to assist in the recovery from damage inflicted by Tropical Storm Iselle. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Billy Kenoi said he is “very disappointed” by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s decision to deny the state’s request for a major disaster declaration in the wake of Tropical Storm Iselle. Tribune-Herald.

Six Kona Community Hospital employees are among 34 Hawaii Health Systems Corp. workers set to lose their jobs by December. HHSC Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Alice Hall said the number of affected employees is lower than some workers expected, based on HHSC officials’ warnings after seeing how much funding the state Legislature provided for this year. West Hawaii Today.

Civil Defense officials will call for an evacuation should a worrisome lava flow approaching neighborhoods near Pahoa appear to be within five days of encroaching on populated areas. Such a possibility is still a long way off, however, Hawaiian Volcano Observatory Scientist-in-Charge Jim Kauahikaua told a packed house Thursday night at the Pahoa Community Center. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists with U.S. Geological Survey say steam was spotted rising above a crack extending east beyond the end of the lava pad, suggesting that lava was once again advancing within a crack below ground. Hawaii News Now.

Four Big Island residents denied a contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope’s sublease are taking the issue to court. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

There was no clear consensus this week on how a federal judge's ruling against a Kauai County pesticides and bioengineered crops bill would affect a Nov. 4 vote on an initiative measure calling for a moratorium on genetically modified crops and activities in Maui County. Maui News.

The public is being asked weigh in on a proposed Maui affordable housing project for seniors. The Maui County Land Use Committee has scheduled a site inspection and meeting next week to consider the proposed Hale Mahaolu Ewalu Senior Residential Housing Project. Associated Press.

Maui Memorial Medical Center administrators said this week that they do not anticipate cutting staff positions other than those associated with the closure of the hospital's adolescent behavioral health unit, Molokini II, at least for now. Maui News.

A fever chart for Maui Electric Co.'s customer bills from 2014 to 2030 shows monthly residential prices dropping from the current average, nearly $230 per month, to a bit more than $160 per month in 2030. Maui News.

A former officer with the Maui Police Department filed a lawsuit alleging disability discrimination against the County of Maui and former Police Chief Gary Yabuta following the officer’s termination in December 2013, after 13 years of service. Maui Now.

Kauai

Garden Isle greenbacks. A look at the money being spent in Kauaʻi County’s legal battle to preserve Ordinance 960, regulating pesticides and GMOs. Hawaii Independent.

Arguing tax reform. Residents sound off, officials explain why changes were necessary. Garden Island.

Hannemann to run for governor as Independent, state budget negotiations snarled, Kauai group starts anti-GMO ballot initiative, jury says Haleakala trail belongs to the state, Honolulu bus signs bill advances, would-be bidder pans Hawaii County waste reduction plans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mufi Hannemann and supporters 2012 file photo © All Hawaii News

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, hoping voters have grown weary of both Democrats and Republicans, will run for governor as an independent. Star-Advertiser.

Minimum wage, transient accommodations tax, construction spending snag Legislature's budget negotiations. Civil Beat.

Hung up over construction spending, state House and Senate negotiators have pushed deliberations on the state budget to Friday, the deadline to have bills ready for final votes next week before the session adjourns. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers passed a bill out of conference committee Wednesday that will force county police departments to disclose more information about officers who get in trouble for misconduct. Civil Beat.

Victims of child sexual abuse in Hawaii would have more time to file lawsuits against abusers if lawmakers and the governor approve one of two bills pending in the Legislature. In a highly publicized law, victims have been given a two-year window to file lawsuits in cases that passed the statute of limitations, which led to a surge of filings. Associated Press.

A Republican lawmaker in Hawaii is saying the state Department of Education is being secretive about its sex education program. Rep. Bob McDermott is taking issue with the Pono Choices curriculum that’s being developed by the Department of Education. He says it sexualizes the innocent by teaching 11-year-old children about anal sex. Associated Press.

The state Intermediate Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that the Circuit Court can hear a legal challenge to former House Speaker Calvin Say's residency. Six voters in Say's Palolo state House district had questioned his residency, arguing that the Democrat actually lives with his family in Pauoa Valley. Star-Advertiser.

The search for the next University of Hawaii president is advancing, though mostly under the radar as the presidential selection committee led by Carl Carlson prepares to present its final report on Monday to the Board of Regents and Chairman John Holzman. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Electric Co. and its sister utilities did not fare well in a new opinion poll that showed 9 out of 10 residents in their service areas believe the companies have slowed rooftop solar installations to protect their profits. Star-Advertiser.

State-of-the-Art Political Campaign Intimacy. Civil Beat.

On Tap at the Hawaii Legislature: April 24. A selective list of bills, resolutions, hearings, briefings, meetings and events for Thursday at the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

Honolulu
Selling advertising space on the sides of Honolulu buses may yet become reality after the City Council Budget Committee voted to revive Mayor Kirk Caldwell's revenue-generating plan Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

On the eve of a critical deadline, a woman Wednesday sued the Roman Catholic Diocese of Honolulu and its former vicar general, Marc Alexander, accusing him of sexually abusing her 30 years ago when she was a minor and he was working at St. John Vianney in Kailua. Star-Advertiser.

TRO against Honolulu police major dropped. KHON2.

Two coqui frogs were captured on Oahu this month, one in Waikiki and one in Kalihi Valley, state Department of Agriculture officials said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

When the Polynesian Voyaging Society's two double-hulled canoes embark on their unprecedented worldwide sail next month, they aim to spread a message to protect what the group has dubbed "Island Earth." But they'll need the help of environmental leaders back home to put that call for stewardship into practice. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A would-be bidder for Hawaii County’s waste reduction facility claims the county’s bid solicitation was designed to favor large-scale waste-to-energy incinerators. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida is taking a job with a private practice May 1, ending a nearly three-decade tenure with the county. Ashida, who has been the county’s top civil attorney for 13 years, is joining the Hilo office of Torkildson, Katz, Moore, Hetherington &Harris as senior counsel. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island Police last week said Randall Hatori died as a result of cardiac arrest not because he was tased. But an independent autopsy obtained by Hawaii News Now said the 39-year-old Kona man's death was a homicide.

A David Ige supporter woke up Wednesday morning to find the campaign signs he had put up Tuesday evening had already been vandalized. West Hawaii Today.

Thousands expected to try out for ‘Wheel of Fortune’ shows on Big Isle. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A jury on Maui ruled Wednesday that the Haleakala Trail on Maui belongs to the state, dismissing Haleakala Ranch Company’s claim to the land. The decision followed a 14-day jury trial brought by Public Access Trails Hawaii. The Maui-based nonprofit has been advocating since 2011 to secure public access to the historic trail. Civil Beat.

Jurors decided Wednesday that the state, not Haleakala Ranch, owns a section of a historic trail that once ran from Makawao town to the summit of Haleakala. Maui News.

A proposed settlement between Maui County and Neldon Mamuad, creator of the popular MAUIWatch Facebook page, has yet to be agreed on, forcing the county to file a memorandum of opposition against Mamuad's federal lawsuit. Maui News.

Local developer Peter Savio plans to expand his Pagoda hotel brand to Maui with the purchase of the Maui Beach Hotel, an adjacent golf course and a vacant lot where the circa-1953 Maui Palms Hotel once stood. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai
Some Kauai residents are collecting signatures that would put to vote a citizens’ initiative aimed at regulating the GMO industry. Garden Island.

Hawaii legislative session begins today, leadership changes, new lawmakers in the mix, voters oppose gay marriage, old Kauai sugar stack comes tumbling down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature 2013 session calendar

Hawaii lawmakers were gearing up to address major issues that include the state budget, food and energy independence and education as the 2013 legislative session opens today. Associated Press.

After the 27th State Legislature convenes Wednesday, expect the state budget to dominate discussion. Hawaii News Now.

When the new session of the Legislature opens today, veteran Rep. Joseph Souki will take the gavel from Speaker Calvin Say on the strength of a dissident faction that has sought to remove Say for the past eight years. Star-Advertiser.

It's showtime for the band of former dissidents in the state House of Representatives who are finally taking the reins of power after years of battling outgoing Speaker Calvin Say for control of the House. Star-Advertiser.

Speaker-elect Joe Souki of Maui (District 8 – Wailuku, Waihee, Waiehu, Puuohala, Waikapu) announced today state House leadership positions and chair and vice-chair positions for the 2013 session. Maui Now.

Wednesday is the opening day of the legislative session and it could mark a new era in leadership. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie this afternoon announced his appointment of Maui businessman Justin Woodson to fill the House seat vacancy created when Rep.Gil Keith-Agaran moved over to the Senate. Civil Beat.

Justin Woodson, owner of a Maui carwash and a former president of the Young Demo­crats of Hawaii, became the newest member of the state House Tuesday, on the eve of opening day of the 2013 Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

As the economy shows positive signs of recovery, this year’s Senate Opening Day ceremony will include remarks by presiding officers, local musicians and honored guests will be allowed to be seated on the chamber floor. Hawaii Reporter.

It was high fives all around following a meeting of the minds Tuesday, before the county mayors made their way downstairs to talk to state lawmakers about their priorities. KITV4.

In order to make the legislative process more open and participatory for the public, Common Cause Hawaii and 13 other community organizations have asked the Senate and House to consider implementing new rules and practices in the 2013 Legislative Session. Civil Beat.

Most Hawaii voters remain opposed to same-sex marriage in the state but support is growing, a new Civil Beat Poll shows. Civil Beat.

The teachers who organized the so-called "Work to the Rule" protests that spread to schools statewide will rally at the State Capitol Wednesday morning, urging lawmakers to consider legislation that the teachers' union says it does not support. Hawaii News Now.

Emboldened by the United Public Workers’ new deal, the Hawaii State Teachers Association wants the state to double down on its latest contract settlement offer. Civil Beat.

The Blue Planet Foundation said Tuesday that the existing state renewable energy tax credit, which has helped the solar photovoltaic industry reach new heights, provides a “significant net fiscal benefit to the state.” Pacific Business News.

Rep. Cynthia Thielen is questioning whether the Public Utilities Commission is properly regulating the cost of electricity in the state. Star-Advertiser.

A Joint State Senate Committee conducted an informational hearing today to receive an update on the implementation of provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s largest health insurance provider wants to deliver more support to its members over the next several years, the company’s new CEO said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Travel Technology Association, a trade organization that represents the nation’s top online travel companies including Amadeus, Expedia, Hotels.com, Hotwire, Priceline, Orbitz Worldwide, Travelocity, Travelport and Vegas.com, will fight a court ruling that orders them to pay millions of dollars in back state taxes for $2.7 billion in Hawaii hotel room sales. Hawaii Reporter.

It’s been only three weeks since Brian Schatz abruptly took off in Air Force One with President Barack Obama en route from Honolulu to Washington D.C., where he was promptly sworn in as Hawaii’s new U.S. senator. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka left office with about $15,000 in his campaign account. Associated Press.

State roundup for January 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

Tuesday's early morning blaze under a freeway viaduct near Honolulu Airport marked the first time a fire damaged fiberoptic telecomunications cables, cutting off telephone, Internet or cable TV service to about 25,000 homes and businesses. Star-Advertiser.

The Aloha Tower Development Corp. on Monday approved Hawaii Pacific University’s $30 million plan to transform the Aloha Tower Marketplace into a student dormitory with as many as 300 units and entertainment and sports complex that would infuse economic growth into the center near downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

The state Department of Health said Oahu smoke levels during the 2013 New Year's celebrations were consistent with levels during 2012 celebrations thanks to an islandwide ban on fireworks with the exception of firecrackers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

’Tis the season, according to police — the season for cockfighting, that is. Tribune-Herald.

Fishermen off Honokohau Harbor found what they believe to be debris from the March 2011 tsunami. West Hawaii Today.

The Reed’s Island bridge was closed Monday, marking the start of an approximately nine-month renovation project. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Members of Maui's legislative delegation are optimistic about the significant leadership changes in store when the Legislature convenes Wednesday, saying they anticipate accomplishing a laundry list of priorities for Maui residents. Maui News.

Justin Howard Woodson of Kahului was appointed to fill the vacant state House District 9 seat Tuesday afternoon by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

The Maui County Council is expected to make initial committee referrals on Friday that could include review of the Maui Bus schedules and fares; and a resolution to hire the first county auditor. Maui Now.

Kauai

On the day before the opening of the 2013 state Legislature, Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. traveled to O‘ahu to talk to Legislators about collaboration. Garden Island.

The Lihue Sugar Mill smokestack stood watch over the town of Lihu‘e for almost 65 years. Yesterday, it tumbled into the mud. Garden Island.

Lyle Tabata stood with co-workers Tuesday afternoon outside the Lihue Civic Center, about a quarter-mile from the former Lihue Sugar Mill on Kauai, and watched as contractors tore down the mill's historic smokestack, a symbol of Hawaii's bygone sugar plantation era. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of  Kaua‘i and O‘ahu customers — including businesses and government offices, including the Kaua‘i Police Department — were affected by a fire on O‘ahu that knocked out phone and data service for an estimated 10,000 Hawaiian Telcom customers. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai Land Trust has received the deed to a 5-mile stretch of remote and environmentally sensitive coastline along the rugged north shore of Molokai that has endangered ferns, subsistence gathering areas and an extensive tidal pool system, the trust announced Monday. Maui News.

Subdued opening day for Hawaii Legislature, leaders' speeches promote austerity, public records, plastic bag fees, gambling among top topics, teachers union votes today, more government and politics news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

State House and Senate leaders, on a spartan opening day of the legislative session, said they would avoid new taxes and major spending increases but may invest in bond-financed construction projects to upgrade  Hawaii’s aging infrastructure and hopefully create jobs. Star-Advertiser.

Slideshow: Hawaii Legislature's 2012 opening day. Pacific Business News.

Opening remarks

Senate President Shan S. Tsutsui
So, let us unite and move forward “Pupukahi I Holomua” with “The Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012,” the Governor's New Day initiatives, and all of the Senate's priorities to create a better Hawaii for today and the future. Text.

House Speaker Calvin Say
Let us be confident that our unselfish work of today will lead tomorrow to the Hawaii that we all dream about. Text.

Senate Minority Leader Sam Slom
Every day is a “new” day; it is time we make it a BETTER DAY for all of Hawaii’s people. Text.

House Minority Leader Gene Ward
We're world class and this session has the potential to prove it. Text.






The state Capitol came alive Wednesday as lawmakers, lobbyists and interest groups anxious to be heard gathered for opening day at the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate leaders expressed bipartisan support for the "Invest in Hawaii Act of 2012," which sets forth an aggressive, $500 million capital improvement project package aimed at stimulating the economy. Associated Press.

In austere and abbreviated fashion, the Hawaii House of Representatives opened for business this morning, with Speaker Calvin Say stressing economic issues in his opening address.Hawaii Reporter.

The 26th State Legislative Session convened today at the Capitol. Celebrations this year were scaled back in both Houses to observe the continued slow economic recovery in the islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

The 2012 state Legislature opened Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the state Capitol in Honolulu without much of the pagentry of previous years. Garden Island.

A bill introduced last year in response to Civil Beat's publishing of state and city government salaries has resurfaced and will receive a hearing Friday. Civil Beat.

Protecting the state's water resources and imposing fees on plastic bags are already gaining attention from lawmakers and environmental groups this session. Civil Beat.

Gambling at top of opening lesiglative session issues. KHON2.

A task force assigned to perform an extensive review of Hawaii foreclosures presents its 2012 findings to state lawmakers Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The public school teachers union says it might prepare for a strike vote or continue a legal challenge to a contract offer imposed in July if members do not ratify a proposed six-year pact today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public school teachers are preparing to vote on a proposed six-year contract to end a labor dispute that has contributed to placing a $75 million Race to the Top grant on "high-risk" status. Associated Press.

Hawaii's public school teachers will be voting on a proposed 6-year contract that includes moving to a performance-based compensation system. Associated Press.

State roundup for January 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu rail planners are unlikely to request an extension to the general excise tax surcharge that's paying for the bulk of the project. Civil Beat.

Enforcing limits on chromium-6, a naturally occurring toxic chemical found in Oahu's drinking water, is a priority on the environmental health agenda for the state Legislature this session. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Peter Carlisle proclaimed Wednesday "Hire Our Heroes Day" in support of a nationwide initiative to hire veterans and military spouses. KITV4.

A University of Hawaii at Manoa building is the first research laboratory in the state to receive the highest level Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certification. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii County is facing a fourth straight year of lowered property tax collections, which will force additional cuts, Mayor Billy Kenoi wrote in a letter presented Wednesday to the state Legislature's two money committees.  Tribune-Herald.

Bids for a long-anticipated roof repair in Honokaa have come in more than three times higher than county officials expected. West Hawaii Today.

The most recent results from Hilo Medical Center's patient satisfaction surveys show that the hospital continues to lag behind state and national averages in most key areas. Tribune-Herald.

Food grown in Hawaii has more than just perfect farm-fresh flavors, a visiting chef said Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council members endorsed more than $16 million in water infrastructure projects Tuesday, including plans to replace the aging Waikamoi flume. Maui News.

An old Navy landing craft broke loose from its mooring line and washed onto Sugar Beach in north Kihei on Tuesday morning. Maui News.

More than two dozen Hana residents reacted with enthusiasm and hope in helping shape an income initiative aimed at improving the economic well-being of Native Hawaiians in the area. Maui Now.

Kauai

Monk seal hospital closer to reality. Garden Island.

Kauai County workers won't accept green waste  at the Hanalei, Kapaa and Hanapepe transfer stations due to safety concerns caused by muddy conditions in the drop-off areas caused by Tuesday's heavy rains. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai

Tsunami Debris Exploration Uncovers New Theories, More Questions. KITV4.