120th anniversary of overthrow overlooked by Hawaii media, Oracle's Ellison buys an airline for his Hawaiian Island, Abercrombie open to repeal of PLDC, unemployment drops, more news from all the islands

King Kamehameha statue (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

One hundred and twenty years ago today, the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that he would consider a repeal of the Public Land Development Corp. if the state Legislature is unable to adjust the controversial law to satisfy public objections. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants the Legislature to repair flaws in the Public Land Development Corporation or find another way to shore up state facilities and generate revenue for natural resources. Civil Beat.

On the first day following the opening of the 2013 Legislature, the Senate introduced a bill — passed at first reading — to repeal the controversial Public Land Development Corporation. In the House of Representatives, a bill to repeal PLDC, crafted by three Big Island representatives, was pending introduction. Garden Island.

For the state Legislature, 2013 might be the year of the repeal. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii state Rep. Karl Rhoads wants a tighter grip on firearm ammunition and has introduced a bill to require people who are buying bullets to prove that they're licensed gun owners. KITV4.

A gain of nearly 12,000 jobs in 2012 helped push Hawaii's unemployment rate to 5.2 percent by year's end, the lowest level in more than four years, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian concept of pono — to be moral, truthful and just — set the tone at the annual Red Mass Thursday, held by the Catholic Diocese of Hono­lulu to offer special prayers of guidance to government leaders at the start of each legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

Together, the demonstrations both inside the cathedral and outside represented the ongoing battle between church and state, between those who believe the two should forever be separate and those who argue they are eternally intertwined. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the only state in the nation with an average gas price above $4. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Gas Gets Green Light From Feds To Begin LNG Shipments. Civil Beat.

The latest round of talks on a new contract for teachers ended Thursday afternoon without a deal. KHON2.

State Sen. Jill Tokuda, head of the Senate’s Committee on Education,will hold a “Twitter Town Hall” from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, on the creation of Hawaii’s Keiki First Steps Program. Big Island Now.

Hawai’i’s Senior U-S Senator is nearing the end of a week-long visit home before heading back to Washington DC. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

State Senators were stunned on Thursday when University of Hawaii officials admitted during a Ways and Means hearing that some $200,000 went missing over a 7-year period, but was recovered from an "inactive account" when the University installed new software and discovered the funds. Hawaii Reporter.

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board on Thursday unanimously voted in favor of new national safety recommendations for fireworks disposal jobs in response to the explosion that killed five workers handling confiscated fireworks in a Waikele bunker two years ago. Civil Beat.

An attempt on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to break the unofficial world record for the largest human peace sign is just the start of a worldwide movement for peace, said Eric Butler, founder of World Peace Plan, the group organizing the Hono­lulu event. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Engineers working for the state Department of Transportation say that plans for a traffic circle at one of the most dangerous intersections in the state will prevent accidents and could potentially save lives. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo shoppers and retailers had mostly positive things to say on the first day the county’s new plastic bag ban took effect Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza approved Wednesday an agreement between Public Access Trails Hawaii and the state of Hawaii to join forces in ongoing litigation to reopen the Haleakala Trail to hikers. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management today announced the availability of the January 2013 US EPA/Department of Health Consent Decree Wastewater Quarterly Report. Maui Now.

Paia has been named one of the "Top Ten Happiest Seaside Towns in America" by Coastal Living Magazine and could win top honors with help from the public. Maui News.

Kauai

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. holiday the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge will waive its entrance fee Sunday. 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. Tribune-Herald.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire who bought 97 percent of the island of Lanai in June, is adding small interisland airline Island Air to his Hawaii collection. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature opens with leadership changes, protests, tax concerns, Honolulu mayor wants rail tax money, Hawaii County mayor wants state parks, plastic bag ban begins, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Senate opening day, courtesy Senate Majority Office

The Hawaii Legislature opened its 2013 session at the Capitol in Honolulu on Wednesday with speeches from new leadership and music and dance from local entertainers. Pacific Business News.

Senators and representatives were sworn in and new leadership was chosen in both houses Wednesday as the 2013 Hawaii legislative session got under way. Associated Press.

State Senate President Donna Mercado Kim said Wednesday that despite anticipating a better economy, lawmakers should not impose new tax burdens on residents or reflexively expand state programs. House Speaker Joseph Souki said the state must generate new revenue if legislators want to restore the social safety net, improve public education and repair infrastructure. Star-Advertiser.

On Wednesday, Calvin Say's 14 years as speaker ended, and the man he deposed — Joe Souki — was returned to power with the votes of 25 Democrats and all seven Republicans.Civil Beat.

on Wednesday, January 16, during the first day of the 60 working day session, both the Senate president and House speaker expressed their concern over Hawaii's high tax burden. Hawaii Reporter.

The 27th State Legislature opened Wednesday, and an expected change in the House of Representatives leadership has given more — or at least some — power to the Republican minority in Hawai‘i’s Democratic-dominated political arena. Garden Island.

Sen. Donna Mercado Kim takes helm as Senate president, Rep. Joe Souki installed as House Speaker. KITV4.

The State Legislature convened today with many focusing on the House of Representatives where a new leader was formally installed… resulting in a major shift in power for the first time in 14 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Joseph Souki officially took over as state House speaker, succeeding Calvin Say. But supporters of the outgoing leader voiced discontent at Say's seat assignment. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds marched on the state capitol on Wednesday hoping lawmakers will hear their call to action. KHON2.

With swooping, rhythmic motions, hundreds of men, women, teenagers and preschoolers pounded taro into roughly 1,000 pounds of poi Wednesday at the state Capitol as part of a protest that drew hundreds of residents hoping to have their voices heard on the opening day of the legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

On Wednesday, there was a cadence of movement, as hundreds gathered in a convocation of various groups coming together to push for labeling of genetically modified foods. Hawaii Independent.

[VIDEO] Legislature's Opening Day: Speeches, Songs, Chants and Cheers. Civil Beat.

This is a copy of Speaker Joseph M. Souki's prepared remarks to the opening session of the state House of Representatives on Wednesday. Maui News.

A Honolulu-based nonprofit law firm wants state lawmakers to establish a Hawaii earned income tax credit and eliminate the income tax on the poor to ease the burden on low-income individuals and families. West Hawaii Today.

Toxic chemicals released in Hawaii from facilities such as electric utilities and fuel refineries increased slightly in 2011, according to the latest Toxics Release Inventory data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is considering asking environmental regulators to extend deadlines for complying with new regulations that they say would cost ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk  Caldwell told lawmakers this week the city has been shortchanged when it comes to a special tax that's earmarked for rail and that an accounting error led to the loss of $10 million last year. Civil Beat.

The explosion at a Waikele storage facility that killed five people in 2011, along with a fireworks-related Fourth of July fatality in Kansas, shows a clear "regulatory gap" when it comes to the disposal of fireworks in the United States, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board said in a report expected to be released this morning in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Preliminary necropsy findings on a humpback whale calf that died off an East Honolulu beach indicate the mammal may have been battling some sort of respiratory infection, according to one of the scientists at Hawaii Pacific University involved in the examination. Star-Advertiser.

Chevron Corp. will likely follow Tesoro Corp.'s lead and close its Campbell Industrial Park refinery within a few years as the environment to do business in Hawaii becomes more difficult, an East-West Center energy expert said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

One of Mayor Billy Kenoi’s legislative priorities — a county takeover of Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea State Recreation Areas — is already encountering some resistance in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

If you want to save a few cents at area supermarkets and shopping malls, now is the time to start toting your shopping bags into the store with you. West Hawaii Today.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Hawaii island took top honors in four categories in the TripAdvisor 2013 Travelers' Choice Hotel awards: best overall in the U.S. and in the world and best luxury hotel in the U.S. and in the world. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

A lecture, a performance and a display are part of the events that will be held Thursday on the University of Hawaii Maui College lawn fronting Kaahumanu Avenue to commemorate and educate the public about the 120th anniversary of the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom that occurred on Jan. 17, 1893. Maui News.

The Department of Water Supply will be providing combined water and wastewater bills on a monthly basis starting next week. Maui News.

Kauai

The Department of Water will bill its customers on a monthly basis instead of bi-monthy beginning Jan. 22, according to a county news release. DOW officials say the change was made to provide better customer service. 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.

Abercrombie signs, vetoes bills, Cayetano raises almost $900k, Kauai could get Hunger Games sequel, Hawaii County elections officer reinstated, Native Hawaiian caretaker guilty of obstructing DLNR, RIMPAC heads out to sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie signs bills, courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie vetoed 14 bills passed by the state Legislature last session, down from 17 vetoes last year. Tuesday was the deadline for the governor to issue vetoes. Star-Advertiser.

Of the 345 measures passed out of the 2012 Legislature, 329 are now law. Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed 323 measures into law and vetoed 14.  Six measures became law without the governor’s signature. Governor's Office.

List of Acts for the 2012 legislative session. Governor's Office.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie late Tuesday announced he vetoed 14 measures. Civil Beat.

Governor Neil Abercrombie today made his final decision on all 2012 Legislative bills. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed House Bill 2030 requiring motorists to move over a lane or at least slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed into law House Bill 1957, which brings Hawaii’s patient privacy protection laws in line with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act laws. Pacific Business News.

Aerial luminaries, also known as sky lanterns, are no longer legal to own, buy, sell or use under a bill signed into law by Gov. Neil Abercrombie Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A bill seeking to do away with mandatory inspection and certification of Hawaii-grown coffee will pass into law after Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s announcement Tuesday that he had opted not to veto the measure. Tribune-Herald.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle made this speech on her views about the Jones Act at the Associated Builders and Contractors Member Appreciation Dinner on July 10, 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Pearl Harbor is being drained of nearly 40 ships as the at-sea portion of the big June 29-to-Aug. 3 Rim of the Pacific exercise gets under way around the Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii on Tuesday abruptly canceled an Aug. 18 Stevie Wonder concert to benefit its athletic department after Wonder’s agent told school officials the show was planned without the star’s knowledge. Star-Advertiser.

Time Warner Cable blamed "greedy broadcasters," while KITV, the Hawaii ABC-TV affiliate, complained of "Time Warner's exaggerated and distorted claims," as the two reached an impasse that left most Hawaii television viewers without KITV programming. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano has raised nearly $900,000 since announcing in January that he is running for mayor in a bid to stop the city's planned $5.27 billion rail transit project, his campaign said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral challenger Ben Cayetano is thrashing incumbent Mayor Peter Carlisle in campaign fundraising. Hawaii Reporter.

Bob Watada, well-respected former executive director of the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission, flew in from Oregon to set the record straight about the illegal contributions Ben Cayetano received during his 1998 re-election campaign for governor. Civil Beat.

Under pressure from the City Council to justify the number of public relations jobs tied to the Honolulu rail project, positions dedicated to "public involvement" will shrink from 23 to 91⁄2 by the end of the year, cutting more than $2.8 million in spending. Star-Advertiser.

Two years after questions were first raised about how much money the city was devoting to public relations for the controversial rail project, officials canned more than half the PR staff and cut nearly $3 million in contracts. Civil Beat.

Leading the way with 66.9 percent voter turnout in 2010 was House District 18, which runs from Hahaione Valley through Kuliouou and Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Wailupe, and part of Kahala. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Fired Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto is getting her job back, following a union grievance and a decision from the county Human Resources Department. West Hawaii Today.

Portions of Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo will be closed to traffic in about two months as Hawaii County starts a seven-month-long sewer rehabilitation project. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Crews are mopping up after a fire burned about 2 acres of dry brush at The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course on Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Film Commissioner Art Umezu escorted a Los Angeles-based production team scouting locations around the island a couple of months ago. While they didn’t say what movie they were scouting, numerous reports say Kauai is the top choice for Catching Fire, the Hunger Games first sequel. Pacific Business News.

A jury found a Wailua man guilty Tuesday of stopping a DLNR construction dig for the Kaumuali‘i Comfort Station project near kupuna burials at Kaumuali‘i Park and Old Smith Landing in Wailua. Garden Island.

Following the first live capture of a mongoose by KISC trapper Pat Gmelin on May 23, a second mongoose, this time a juvenile, was captured on June 29 at the Young Brothers pier in Nawiliwili. Garden Island.

As the next school year rolls in, a new private school will be up and running at the Lawa‘i home of the former principal of Kahili Adventist School, thanks to permits granted by the Kaua‘i Planning Commission Tuesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Senate sets special session to confirm judicial nominees, Abercrombie signs charter schools bills, Hawaii County Council bans aerial hunting, transit stations downsized in Honolulu plan, Lanai sale gaining momentum, islands battle wildfires, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The state Senate will meet in a special session June 28-29 to take confirmation votes on judge appointees Richard Pollack to the Hawaii Supreme Court and Peter Cahill to the Circuit Court bench on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed into law Senate Bill 2115, which replaces the chapter governing charter schools based on task force recommendations. Civil Beat.

Tuesday Governor Neil Abercrombie enacted Senate Bill (SB) 2115 and SB 2116, Relating to Charter Schools, into law. KHON2.

With just six weeks until kids head back to class, Hawaii school board members still can't decide how to plug a $17 million hole in the school bus budget. Civil Beat.

The wheels of the bus go round and round, except when there's no money to fund them. Hawaii News Now.

A Civil Beat review of the financial disclosures — filed in mid-May and posted online by the Center for Responsive Politics last week — shows that Sen. Daniel K. Inouye could be the wealthiest in the delegation. But it could also be Rep. Mazie Hirono or Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, depending on how things shake out. All three have holdings valued between $1 million and $3 million. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle is making her ability as a Republican who can work with Democrats a centerpiece of her campaign for U.S. Senate. Associated Press.

In a Hawaii Public Radio debate with Mazie Hirono last Wednesday, U.S. senate candidate Ed Case said that women’s organizations gave him 100 percent approval ratings when he represented Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District from 2002 to 2007. Civil Beat.

Small unmanned planes are used as military spies elsewhere but NOAA has bought half a dozen for use over the remote Northwestern Hawai`i Islands. They’ll help researchers track endangered wildlife and marine debris. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for June 20. Associated Press.

Oahu
As the Honolulu Authority of Rapid Transportation continues to tweak its financial plan, a decision has been made to shorten the length of all 21 rail stations from East Kapolei to the Ala Moana Shopping Center. KITV4.

Honolulu City Council considers auctioning off Haleiwa land. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano reacted quickly today to a new online political attack questioning his record as governor. Hawaii Reporter.

Conflicting information has come out of the Honolulu Department of Environmental Services regarding how much the city is limiting the number of new sewer connections that can be added to the the city’s system from Halawa to Pearl City. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle joined an official from Google to announce Tuesday the new Street View imagery of Hawaii's parks, beaches and attractions. KITV4.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council has a message for the state Department of Land and Natural Resources: Stop shooting our animals from helicopters. Tribune-Herald.

Energy and the economy — and their relationship to each other — were the biggest topics at Tuesday’s League of Women Voters of Hawaii County candidates’ forum at Hualalai Academy. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council passed two geothermal bills Tuesday evening but floundered on a third. Tribune-Herald.

Ka‘u Hospital reopened its emergency room late Tuesday while firefighters continued to battle two brush fires that have scorched about 4,400 acres and obstructed traffic in the Pahala area. West Hawaii Today.

Firefighters spent a second day on Tuesday battling a wildfire that has all but paralyzed Pahala, as well as a smaller brushfire a few miles to the north. Tribune-Herald.

East Hawaii parents dodged a bullet Tuesday when members of the state Board of Education voted to fund all school bus routes on the east side of the island. However, nearly 200 West Hawaii students will need to find alternative transportation in the fall. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The island of Lanai could be under new ownership by the end of the week, according to Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

The news of the sale of the island of Lanai being imminent has spread throughout the Mainland and even internationally as far as Germany. Pacific Business News.

A wind-fanned fire that damaged three homes in Kula was 90 percent contained this morning, a fire official said. Maui News.

At least three homes were damaged and 6 acres of "heavy timber" were scorched Monday afternoon in a fire fanned by periodic "crazy winds" in Kula. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Fire Department has acquired a driver simulator and showed it off recently in a demonstration held at the Lihu‘e Fire Station. Garden Island.

Molokai

About 50 guests at Hotel Molokai — the island's only hotel — were allowed to return to their rooms Tuesday afternoon after fire heavily damaged the bottom floor of one of its buildings — but the facility is still without power and water, a Maui fire official reported. Star-Advertiser.

Spotlight on Sunshine Week: A down-and-dirty how-to on top sites for recent actions of the Hawaii Legislature from Honolulu blogger Ian Lind

Courtesy national Sunshine Week

It's national Sunshine Week, and it's a good time to check out what the Hawaii Legislature is up to.

Honolulu blogger Ian Lind has come up with some suggestions and shortcuts as the Legislature passes its midway mark on its legislative session.

Among them: 

    • A digest of bills that survived first crossover

    • Detailed budget worksheets

    • Provisos tucked away in the executive budget.

    • Applications for Grants-in-aid submitted by nonprofit groups looking for state funding.

Sure, you could Google them, but Lind adds a few hints along the way at his blog.

Lind, a former newspaper reporter, has also served in the government, political and nonprofit sectors ranging from Neil Abercrombie to Common Cause, and was one of the first in Hawaii to establish himself as a political blogger.

You can always find him on our bloglist to the right, or subscribe on his site.

Watershed protection advances, sweet soft drink tax killed, rentals limited at Oahua beaches, Honolulu Council mulls plastic bag ban, UH settles data breach lawsuit, Hawaii Island may declare food emergency, family of murdered inmate files lawsuit, Kauai students want free bus, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waipio Valley watershed (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

There are more than 60 bills relating to natural forest watershed protection before the State Legislature this session. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state Senate Health Committee shelved a bill Wednesday that would have imposed a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, and the syrup and powder used to make them, in an effort to combat childhood obesity. Star-Advertiser.

House Speaker Calvin Say is raising the ire of environmental activists by sidestepping normal legislative procedures on a bill they think would weaken environmental protection in the state. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s newspapers will continue collecting some $1 million for at least another year to print government legal notices, according to the state’s Chief Information Officer. Hawaii Reporter.

The foreclosure count for January was the highest since June, it was still 34 percent below the 985 cases filed in January 2011, suggesting that Hawaii's new foreclosure mediation is still having a dampening effect and providing relief to troubled borrowers. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Community Development Authority approved a 5 percent increase for executive director Tony Ching at a time when other state officials are subject to a 5 percent salary cut because of tight fiscal times. Civil Beat.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii announced a lawsuit this morning against the state and a private prison company for the murder of a Hawaiian inmate in Arizona in 2010. Hawaii Independent.

Bronson Nunuha's family filed a lawsuit Wednesday against the state and its contractor, Tennessee-based Corrections Corp. of America, alleging understaffing and their failure to protect Nunuha, who was killed by fellow inmates on Feb. 18, 2010, in a CCA prison in Eloy, Ariz. Star-Advertiser.

A state judge has approved a $9 million settlement between Bank of Hawaii and 160,000 customers in a class-action lawsuit over improper overdraft charges. Associated Press.

A judge has approved the University of Hawaii's settlement over a major data breach involving thousands of students, faculty, alumni and employees. Hawaii News Now.

The state Reapportionment Commission expects to finalize new political boundaries for state House and Senate offices by the end of the month. Star-Advertiser.

A new attempt to redraw political boundaries drew opposition at the unveiling of the new election maps. KITV4.

Norwegian Cruise Line agreed to pay $526,602 in back wages to 2,059 employees in Hawaii after a federal labor investigation found that the company had violated minimum wage, overtime and record-keeping provisions for employees on the Pride of America cruise ship. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for Feb. 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

Seeking to curb increasing commercial activity at two of Kailua's most popular beach parks, the Honolulu City Council Wednesday approved a ban on such enterprises at Kailua Beach Park and Kalama Beach on Sundays and most of Saturdays. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would ban the use of non-biodegradable plastic bags passed the first of three required votes at the City Council Wednesday. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council on Wednesday voted to approve the Waianae Sustainable Communities Plan with the controversial "purple spot" of light industrial zoning in Lualualei Valley inside it. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has pledged to improve a staffing shortage which resulted in just one inspector left working in the field to test the accuracy of thousands of gas pumps, supermarket check-out scanners and taxi meters on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

The Seaside Hotel in Waikiki is about to change hands with the pending sale of the 1970s-era building from owner United Airlines to an unnamed buyer. Pacific Business News.

A killer monk seal named KE18 is expected to return to Hawaii and spend his days at Sea Life Park outside Honolulu, one of just four institutions authorized to house Hawaiian monk seals. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council will likely declare an emergency in order to give money to the Food Basket. West Hawaii Today.

A 10-day-long effort to gather 100,000 pounds of food for the island's only food bank reached its goal, but the "tremendous" increase in demand for food remains and the call for help is continuous, said Nani Lee, executive director of The Food Basket. West Hawaii Today.

Native Hawaiian homesteaders owe more than $1.6 million in back property taxes, penalties and interest that Hawaii County needs but is virtually powerless to collect. Tribune-Herald.

Waimea Middle School officials have scheduled a community meeting for tonight to discuss the departure of Principal John Colson. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After years of planning and funding delays, the Kahului Airport access road and parking lot expansion projects have money lined up to start construction in mid-2013. Maui News.

Maui County Council members on Friday deferred a proposal that would require house lots on agricultural land to be taxed the same way as any other residential property. Maui News.

The EA Sports Maui Invitational brought more than 5,000 visitors, including college basketball fans, coaches, players and sports media, to the Valley Isle and generated $8.1 million for the island's economy, according to an announcement from KemperLesnik, operator of the annual tournament hosted by Chaminade University. Maui News.

Kauai

A group of Kaua‘i Community College students rode The Kaua‘i Bus from their campus in Puhi to urge the Kaua‘i County Council to continue the island’s free bus fare program for students. Garden Island.

About 50 people gathered at the Hanalei School cafeteria Wednesday evening for the first of five forums featuring candidates for the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative board of directors. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously approved on first reading Resolution 2012-22 calling for the following ballot question to be added to the November elections: “Shall the terms “must” and “shall,” when used in the Kaua‘i County Charter, be interpreted as mandatory directives and shall the term “may,” when used in the Kaua‘i County Charter, be interpreted as permissive?” Garden Island.

The deadline to submit an application for a seat on the Kaua'i County Public Access, Open Space, and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Commission has been extended to March 2. KHON2.


Molokai

A product being sold as incense on Molokai is causing concern, especially for its possible abuse among students and teens who are reportedly smoking it. Known as Spice, K2, herbal incense and other names, the substance, legal in Hawaii, is classified as synthetic cannabis and is chemically blended with herbs. Molokai Dispatch.

Poll: Hannemann hands-down favorite for Congress, new maps give Oahu state Senate seat to Big Island, sugary drink tax on the table today, military pulling cruisers from Pearl Harbor, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

If the Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District were held today, Hannemann would walk away with 65 percent of the vote, compared with just 20 percent for his best-known challenger, City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard. Star-Advertiser.

Former Congressman Ed Case isn't raising as much money in his campaign for U.S. Senate as Democratic opponent Rep. Mazie Hirono and Republican candidate Linda Lingle. Civil Beat.

New political maps being proposed by the state Reapportionment Commission would shift an Oahu state Senate seat to Hawaii Island and put two Democrats into the same Senate district in the Makiki-Moiliili area. Associated Press.

New redistricting maps give Big island a fourth Senate seat, taking one from Oahu, likely at the exepnse of Sen. Carol Fukunaga, D-Makiki/Punchbowl, Ala Moana, McCully. Civil Beat.

The state Senate Health Committee will vote today on a bill to tax sugary beverages after a hearing on the measure earlier this week in which the committee's chairman told industry representatives he believes sodas are a public health problem. Star-Advertiser.

In recognition of the 50th State’s official marine mammal, Governor Neil Abercrombie and Lt. Governor Brian Schatz have officially proclaimed February 2012 as Humpback Whale Awareness Month in Hawai‘i. Hawaii Reporter.

A bill in the state Legislature proposing to end sales of unsterilized cats and dogs in Hawai‘i cleared two committees Tuesday and made potential headway for final approval, but not before erasing its spay and neuter section. Garden Island.

State health officials hope to build on the success of a bottle recycling program and expand it to include electronic devices. KITV4.

The president of Young Brothers is withdrawing from the state water commission a day before he was supposed to show up for his first meeting. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Department of Education has approved a handful of new amendments to the state's Race to the Top plan but cautioned it wants to see results when federal reviewers visit next month. Star-Advertiser.

Charter school employees should not be state employees, experts told Senate Education Chairwoman Jill Tokuda in a briefing about her omnibus charter bill last month. Civil Beat.

Several Molokai residents and University of Hawaii students have assembled a stone platform with a kii, or wooden statue, on the grounds of the state Capitol to bring attention to legislative bills that would require the labeling of genetically modified food in Hawaii stores. Star-Advertiser.

A bill before the Hawai‘i Legislature would make it impossible for counties to pass laws mandating new or existing one- and two-family dwellings to be equipped with fire sprinkler systems. Garden Island.

The Navy plans to retire two of three cruisers at Pearl Harbor under a leaner defense budget — a move that, along with other cutbacks, is expected to have a negative effect on Hawaii's economy. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for Feb. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

The State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers union Tuesday announced its endorsement of former city Managing Director Kirk Caldwell in the race for Honolulu mayor. Star-Advertiser.

An amended city ordinance aimed to eliminate "gentleman farming" on Oahu has the equestrian community concerned it could eliminate businesses. KHON2.

Hawaii’s highly praised Drug Court program “is being used as a dumping ground” for criminal offenders who have washed out of another very successful program of the state Judiciary, HOPE probation, according to Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro and state Public Defender Jack Tonaki. Hawaii Reporter.

The Honolulu City Council is set to debate Bill 50, which approves the Waianae Sustainable Communities Plan, on Wednesday. Hawaii Independent.

Inmates at Hawai`i’s only women’s prison are cultivating Breadfruit trees around the prison grounds. The women say the trees are helping them as well. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu firefighters have put the brakes on their long-standing practice of assisting paramedics by driving ambulances during critical cases. Hawaii News Now.

Bishop Museum had to lay off 13 employees last week after losing $2.2 million in federal funding last year. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A new survey of Big Island physicians reveals that 32 percent plan to end their service here within the next five years. Tribune-Herald.

Three Hawaii County police officers dragged an apparently catatonic 68-year-old woman out of a patrol car Saturday, propped her up on a bench at the Mooheau Terminal and advised her to take a bus and go home. West Hawaii Today.

The former Kulani correctional facility has been identified as a possible site for the first culture-based wellness center for incarcerated Native Hawaiians. Associated Press.

Don't look for widening work on Queen Kaahumanu Highway beyond Kealakehe Parkway before fall. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A proposal that would give County Council members a "maximum term, never to return," was narrowly shot down Monday by the county Charter Commission. Maui News.

The Maui County Council Planning Committee on Monday again delayed action on a bill regulating short-term rentals, with the committee chairman saying he hoped the bill could move forward at the committee's next meeting at the end of the month. Maui News.

The County Council Policy Committee will discuss nominees for county boards and commissions at a meeting starting at 9 a.m. Wednesday. Maui News.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation will be updating the Regional Long-Range Land Transportation Plans for the islands of Maui/Molokai/Lanai, Hawaii and Kauai and is asking the public to participate. Maui Now.

Kauai

County officials will hold five public workshops during the next two weeks on the proposed Kaua‘i Multimodal Land Transportation Plan. Garden Island.

Molokai

Someone is shooting horses dead on Molokai, and the owners of the ranch where it happened are mystified as to why it's happening. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. Abercrombie fights low job approval, tax collections up, no casino for Waikiki, still legal to take seashells by the seashore, union grumbles, OIP looks into Hawaii County Council, one inspector for all of Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's job approval rating is 39 percent, down from the last Hawaii Poll in May, when it was 50 percent, but up from a Public Policy Polling survey in October, when it was 30 percent, at the time the lowest of any governor in the nation. Star-Advertiser.

State tax collections are up 17.5 percent over last fiscal year, the state Department of Taxation reported on Monday, but the increase is only 8.9 percent when the effect of delaying some income tax refunds last year is accounted for. Star-Advertiser.

Randy Perreira, executive director of the Hawaii Government Employees Association, says members are growing increasingly frustrated over the lack of progress on a ‘most favored nation’ clause contained in the union’s two year contract that began in July of last year. KHON2.

The state House voted on Monday to pass a bill that would spare businesses from an increase in the unemployment insurance tax. Star-Advertiser.

Two Senate committees Monday advanced the Abercrombie administration's proposed ceded lands settlement with the Office of Hawaiian Affairs without making any changes. Star-Advertiser.

John Radcliffe is a longtime and well-known lobbyist who formerly headed the Hawaii State Teachers Association. His clients include dozens of local and mainland interests. Civil Beat.

Finding out how the public uses Hawaii's open records law isn't easy. And it's not cheap either. Civil Beat.

The state's largest public pension fund bounced back last quarter but ended the calendar year with a 1.3 percent investment loss that dragged down the asset value in its portfolio by nearly a half-billion dollars. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Telcom  stock gained almost 4 percent Monday as Hawaii stocks followed the broader markets in closing higher and erasing losses from Friday. Pacific Business News.

The bill to protect against cyberbullying was heard Monday by the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Technology. KHON2.

A House committee killed a bill Monday apparently introduced to deter the taking of one of Hawai‘i’s most precious resources, beach sand, could potentially outlaw even shell collecting. Garden Island.

The latest Hawaii Poll shows majority support for a state lottery and off-shore gambling, but support for gambling quickly diminishes once the subject turns to an on-shore casino. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines announced on Monday it is the first airline in the world to earn aviation-based carbon credits. KITV4.

State roundup for Feb. 14. Associated Press.

Oahu

The department charged with assuring accurate prices in Hawaii's grocery stores, gas stations and taxi cabs is woefully understaffed, with just one inspector on Oahu to handle thousands of commercial outlets. Hawaii News Now.

A proposed stand-alone casino in Waikiki has stalled in a state House Committee. Associated Press.

The House Tourism Committee took up the issue of legalized gambling in Hawaii as a potential source of tax revenue. Hawaii Public Radio.

President Barack Obama has requested $250 million in federal funds for the Honolulu rail transit project in the 2013 fiscal year budget. Pacific Business News.

What is the impact of the proposed Honolulu rail project on future traffic? Civil Beat.

Former state harbors official Wesley H. Choi has been charged with stealing state funds worth more than $20,000. Hawaii Reporter.

The Honolulu City Council is set to debate Bill 50, which approves the Waianae Sustainable Communities Plan, on Wednesday. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

The state Office of Information Practices is investigating whether the Hawaii County Council violated the Sunshine Law when it approved a new building code without providing advance copies of the changes to the public. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Island Healthcare Alliance is seeking $250,000 from the Legislature for a rural, family practice medical residency program aimed at attracting young doctors to the island and keeping them here. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island coffee farmers are struggling this legislative to protect the Kona brand from what they view as unscrupulous marketing techniques of Kona blenders. Civil Beat.

Maui

A 28-unit, four-story affordable rental complex planned for Wailuku's Sand Hills area has cleared its environmental review process and should be ready to begin construction this spring, said developer David Billings, president and managing member of DBR Development LLC. Maui News.

The southern end of the Wahikuli State Wayside Park parking lot is scheduled to be closed through Friday for boat salvage operations, according to the county. Maui News.

The Protect Kaho‘olawe ‘Ohana will testify today in strong opposition to Senate Bill 3056, proposing the transfer of management of the Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve from the Kaho‘olawe Island Reserve Commission to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity welcomed more than a dozen volunteers from the Mainland and the Netherlands who came to the island to help build a house in Anahola as part of the Global Village project. Garden Island.

Hawaii attorney general wants unlimited gifts, Legislature limiting medical marijuana, Kauai police officer complaint spurs chief's leave, Hawaii County mayor brings big bucks home from Oahu, Occupy Honolulu protestor arrested, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu shoppers (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii consumers are slightly more confident about the future now than they were six months ago. Pacific Business News.

State House Vice Speaker Joey Manahan said Thursday that he will run for Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Tom Okamura, who was appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie in January to fill a state House vacancy in Aiea, has resigned for health reasons. Star-Advertiser.

The Abercrombie administration is proposing changes to the state ethics code that would allow state officials, including legislators, to accept unlimited numbers of invitations to charitable fundraising events, even if the purpose of the gifts is to influence  votes or other official actions. Hawaii Reporter.

After shying away last session, lawmakers have gingerly waded back into the debate over the state's gift ban. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers are advancing a bill this session to change Hawai’i’s medical marijuana law to rein-in alleged abuses and questionable practices. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

One Occupy Honolulu protester was arrested at Thomas Square on Thursday as city officials continued to rid Oahu sidewalks of personal items under a nearly 2-month-old ordinance. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Marathon, which generates more visitor spending in Hawaii than any other annual event, pumped $107.7 million into the state economy in 2011. Star-Advertiser.

Rail Radio Blitz Costs Oahu Taxpayers $145,000. Hawaii Reporter.

Residents at Mayor Wright public housing complex will soon see new security measures following recent violence. KITV4.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi packed his re-election war chest with almost three times the money raised by Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle — most of it coming from donors in Carlisle's own backyard. West Hawaii Today.

It was chaos in Hilo’s county building on Wednesday, when protest erupted during a vote on adopting a new building code for Hawaii Island. Big Island Video News.

An unruly crowd chanting "kill the bill" forced two recesses of a County Council meeting Wednesday and brought a dozen police officers to council chambers. West Hawaii Today.

Valerie Poindexter, the District 1 representative on the county Redistricting Commission, on Wednesday pulled papers for the County Council district she helped draw. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Dragging buoys and a nest of fishing lines,an adult humpback whale apparently didn't want anything to do with a motorized boat carrying a federal rescue team intent on cutting away the snarled mess, disappearing Thursday afternoon after several hours of pursuit. Star-Advertiser.

Coast Guard personnel and federal marine mammal specialists responded Thursday to help an adult male humpback whale entangled from head to tail in fishing nets and dragging two orange buoys six miles south of Maalaea Bay, the Coast Guard reported. Maui News.

Upcountry farmers said this week that they have concerns about proposals to change the way agricultural lands are taxed. Maui News.

A bill to ban alcohol at Kalama and Cove Parks in South Maui gained unanimous passage on second and final reading today. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai mayor addresses complaint made by 27-year KPD veteran. KHON2.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho acknowledged Thursday that he placed the Garden Island's police chief and two assistant chiefs on leave this week in response to an unspecified "employee-generated complaint" to his office and the Kauai Police Commission. Star-Advertiser.

After two days of “no comment” from his office, Kaua‘i County Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. held a brief news conference Thursday to read a statement that did not answer why he placed County Police Chief Darryl Perry and two assistant chiefs on indeterminate leave this week. Garden Island.

Kauai County Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. broke his silence on Thursday about the shakeup involving three of the Kauai Police Department's top leaders. Hawaii News Now.