Interior Secretary discusses Hawaiian recognition, homelands; overlooked gates add $27M to Honolulu rail project, Kauai Planning Commission chair allowed to work as private lobbyist; Hanabusa, Schatz split labor backing; GMO hot topic; HuffPost Hawaii draws fans, critics, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian protest file photo (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said Wednesday the Obama administration is exploring possible administrative options for pursuing federal recognition of Native Hawaiians. But she stopped short of saying the president supports going that route if it's doable. Star-Advertiser.

On federal recognition, which has never made it through the U.S. Senate despite the decade-long effort of Sens. Daniel K. Inouye and Daniel Akaka, U.S. Interior Secretary Sally Jewel said the Obama administration was "looking at different options to move on a path forward." Though she did not elaborate, one of those options could be recognition of Hawaiians through the Interior Department, the path taken by many Native American tribes. Civil Beat.

It’s time to assess the Hawaiian homelands trust and think about where it should be when the centennial of the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act arrives in eight years, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell said Wednesday. It’s been 30 years since a federal task force addressed the topic in 1983, Jewell said while delivering the keynote address at the 12th annual Native Hawaiian Convention. Associated Press.

Three Chinese navy warships will pull into Pearl Harbor Friday on the first such visit in seven years, the U.S. Navy said. The visiting ships include the Qingdao, a Luhu-class destroyer; Linyi, a Jiangkai-class frigate; and Hongzehu, a Fuqing-class fleet oiler. Star-Advertiser.

One of the state's largest public worker unions, the United Public Workers, is backing U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. The 13,000-member union announced its endorsement at a news conference Wednesday, along with those of six smaller labor unions. Star-Advertiser.

Hoping to dent early labor support for her Democratic primary opponent, Sen. Brian Schatz, Rep. Colleen Hanabusa received the endorsement of a half-dozen unions Wednesday (Sept. 4), including the United Public Workers AFSCME Local 646. Civil Beat.

From the weather and the beaches to the aloha culture of extended families looking out for one another, Hawaii is a pretty good place to be a kid. But when you consider the state’s record on educating its youngest, most vulnerable residents, it doesn’t look quite so much like paradise. HuffPost Hawaii.

HuffPost Hawaii only adds to the world’s distorted view of Paradise. Pacific Business News.

How Come So Many Teachers Bail on Hawaii's Public Schools? Civil Beat.

A federal program to speed up airport security screenings for certain travelers is expanding to airports on Maui, the Big Island and Kauai. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration said Wednesday it will expand faster screening lanes to 100 airports by year end, up from 40 now. Associated Press.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Marine Debris Program announced Wednesday that it provided $967,000 through NOAA's Restoration Center to support locally driven, community-based marine debris prevention and removal projects. KITV.

Oahu

Today board members overseeing Honolulu’s rail project will consider approving an additional $27.1 million to add safety gates at the 21 stations along the route. Called platform screen gates, they would help prevent passengers from falling onto the tracks. However, the safety feature was not budgeted for Oahu’s planned elevated rail system. Star-Advertiser.

Most residential real estate brokers who are experts in Honolulu’s Kahala market hope that the rumors are true regarding the possible sale of some or all of the more than two dozen properties owned by Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto, but no one could confirm reports that the rundown homes in the luxury oceanfront neighborhood are being sold. Pacific Business News.

Ho‘opili, some of the best land for farming in the State, has been arbitrarily exempted from Important Agricultural Land protection and seems doomed to be paved over and turned into a housing development. Hawaii Independent.

The planned expansion of an industrial park next to Kawainui Marsh is drawing the ire of the Kailua Neighborhood Board and environmental groups worried about the project's impact. Star-Advertiser.

The head of the Hawaii Kai association that's dumping tons of sludge in a Waianae neighborhood says there nothing unsafe in the materials and lashed out at residents who oppose the dumping. Hawaii News Now.

West Oahu seniors and those with disabilities will no longer have to spend two hours on the road for help with their Social Security needs. KHON2.

Hawaii

The battle over the future of crop biotechnology on the island of Hawaii escalated with the opening of hearings this week on two measures designed to end crop biotechnology. Forbes.

The debate over genetically modified crops and food is a serious one. But it can be easy to lose sight of that, especially amid the feisty — some might say volatile — Hawaii County Council Public Safety and Mass Transit committee's debate Wednesday about a pair of bills to ban GMOs on the island. Civil Beat.

The crowds were smaller but no less determined Wednesday as the Hawaii County Council started over with testimony on legislation to ban or restrict genetically altered crops. The meeting was the first in a month on the controversial issue, and one of many since the ongoing discussion of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, started again last May. Tribune-Herald.

The County Council’s Committee on Public Safety & Mass Transit today heard nearly five hours of testimony on proposed legislation that would limit the growing of genetically modified crops on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

The backers of the Thirty Meter Telescope are taking a small yet significant step as they began seeking contractors to start land clearing on the top of Mauna Kea. The approximately $6 million contract would allow for grading the 4.85-acre site, paving a 0.61-mile road and installation of drainage and utility conduits. Tribune-Herald.

Preapproved travelers will be able to skip some security measures at Kona International Airport by the end of this year. The Transportation Security Administration on Wednesday announced the Kona airport was one of 60 being added to the TSA’s PreCheck Program, which allows frequent fliers to submit some personal information, then be subjected to limited security inspections once at preapproved airports. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The state's new Community Fisheries Enforcement Unit has issued 12 citations for fishing violations in waters off Maui since it launched operations in the spring. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Wednesday the violations including the use of prohibited lay nets, catching undersized opihi, kumu and hee and using a prohibited net in the Kahului Fisheries Management Area. Associated Press.

Thanks to a few operational changes, Maui Electric says it is now using 91 percent of the Valley Isle’s available wind energy. The nearly 20 percent improvement is expected to trim $22 annually off a typical Maui home’s electric bill, MECO said Wednesday. The company expects to push it up to 98 percent — another $7 to $10 in savings — with additional changes over the next several years. Civil Beat.

Kahului Airport will be added to a list of airports with TSA PreCheck service, enabling low-risk passengers to move more quickly through checkpoint screening, officials said. Maui Now.

While all Maui County Council members agreed that acquiring 186 acres at Launiupoko in West Maui would be a boon for the community, some members expressed concern with the proposed deal's $13 million price tag. Maui News.

The Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee approved on Tuesday a measure that would allow the Department of Water Supply to secure a $9 million appropriation of state revolving loan funds to develop the West Maui Mahinahina water well, instead of using its own generated revenue and county-issued general obligation bonds. Maui News.

Sea-level rise has been identified as a principal cause of coastal erosion in Hawaiʻi, according to a study released this week by the University of Hawaiʻi. The study notes that Maui beaches are eroding at 13cm per year, with 78% of beaches on the island’s beaches showing erosion over the past century. Maui Now.

Kauai

The county Board of Ethics voted Tuesday to allow a member of the county’s Boards and Commissions to testify on behalf of a private company before a government body. Garden Island.

Supporters of a bill that proposes to regulate genetically modified crops and pesticide use by large agricultural operations on Kauai will march this weekend to show solidarity before a County Council committee takes action Monday. Thousands are expected to participate in the Mana March at noon Sunday, a day before the Council’s Economic Development, Agriculture, Sustainability and Intergovernmental Relations Committee reconvenes to discuss Bill 2491. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's healthy ocean, Fukushima risks, pollution countering global warming, celebrating end of WWII, Queen Liliuokalani's 175th, union power and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Four-spot butterflyfish (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Researchers working on a government-funded project said they've figured out a more accurate method to analyze animal movements in the ocean, including fish migration. The new method could help provide researchers and marine managers with better analysis to support marine conservation activities for threatened species. Star-Advertiser.

Surveys of the undersea canyons around Hawaii show high levels of bio­diversity among small invertebrates in seafloor sediments, making the canyons the equivalent of oases in the desert, Hawaii scientists report. And the vitality of these small organisms are likely key to the livelihood of larger fish, they conclude. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii scientists are seeking to lessen anxieties about the potential health risks from Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster in the wake of recent international reports warning that dangerous levels of radiation could hit the west coast of the United States next year. Civil Beat.

Global warming’s effect on rainfall distribution so far has been limited by an unexpected source: airborne pollutants, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Hawaii’s International Pacific Research Center and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. But as greenhouse gases increase, they will overwhelm the influence of aerosols — that is, airborne dust, soot and other pollutants, the researchers say. Their paper was published online Sunday in the journal Nature Geoscience. Star-Advertiser.

A Civil Beat analysis of recently released data on student absenteeism in the state’s elementary schools suggests that problems with attendance are strongly linked to poverty and where pupils live.

Starting in the fiscal year that begins in July, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will receive the last of the $30 million in payments the state has made annually for the past 19 years. That installment will bring the two-decade total to $600 million — the amount agreed to by the state to settle breach-of-trust claims from 1959 to 1988 involving the 203,000-acre trust that DHHL oversees. Star-Advertiser.

As millions of American workers took time off Monday to celebrate Labor Day, the state of organized labor in Hawaii remains among the strongest in the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Hawaii's union participation rate of 21.6 percent is bested by only Alaska (22.4 percent) and New York (23.2 percent). KITV.

Initial reports after Wednesday's meeting between Speaker of the House Joseph Souki and the minority caucus indicated that there were only 26 votes in favor of a Special Session. Our own sources put that number closer to 30. Hawaii Independent.

The former Hawaii resident who threatened to decapitate Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made an uneventful initial appearance Friday in a San Diego court after being captured Wednesday in Tijuana, Mexico, by Policia Estatal Preventiva, Baja California State Police Fugitive Unit. Hawaii Reporter.

A number of major hospitals have agreed to share patient data through a nonprofit that aims to connect Hawaii's health providers with electronic medical records. Star-Advertiser.

Interisland cargo volumes rose during the second quarter of this year at five of six ports that receive shipments from Honolulu. Kawaihae Harbor was the lone exception, with a 1.9 percent decline compared to the same quarter last year, Young Brothers officials said in their quarterly report, issued Friday. The company releases the report as a snapshot of economic activity within the state. West Hawaii Today.

Monday marked the 175th birthday of Hawaii’s last reigning monarch. Dozens turned out to commemorate the birth of Queen Lili’uokalani, who is buried at the Royal Mausoleum. KHON2.

With the growth of eco-tourism in Hawaii, there is now a push to make sure tour companies show off spectacular natural resources without making a big impact on the environment. KITV.

Bloomberg had an item earlier this summer asking If Politics Is So Easy, Why Can't Journalists Do It? It linked to a study showing that only 20 current members of Congress have worked in journalism at some point in their careers. Civil Beat.

In brief | State 090213. Associated Press.

State roundup for September 2. Associated Press.

Oahu

The $5.16 billion Honolulu rail transit project could resume construction as early as next month following the Hawaii state Historic Preservation Division’s approval of the archaeological survey reports, which clears the way for permit applications to be submitted for the system, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation said Friday. Pacific Business News.

A year after a Hawaii State Supreme Court ruling halted construction on Honolulu's controversial $5.2 billion elevated steel on steel rail project, construction will likely resume in a matter of weeks, according to a statement issued Friday by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Hawaii Reporter.

The fired chief financial officer of a Honolulu tug and water taxi company has filed a whistleblower and wrongful termination lawsuit, claiming she was let go after raising questions about unethical and illegal practices involving disability fraud and improper donations to members of Hawaii's congressional delegation. Hawaii News Now.

Historians would like to solve one of the remaining mysteries of the Pearl Harbor attack: What happened to the approximately 29 Japanese airmen and four sailors still missing in action? The majority are thought to have been lost at sea around the isles and in Pearl Harbor, but four aircrew members may still lie buried in unmarked graves in Ewa Beach and in the hills above Aiea. Star-Advertiser.

On Sept. 2, 1945, peace was restored as World War II came to an end with Japan’s surrender on the decks of the battleship USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. On Monday, the Battleship Missouri — now a memorial and museum in Pearl Harbor — hosted a special “End of World War II” commemoration to mark the 68th anniversary of that historic occasion and the sacrifice that made it possible. Star-Advertiser.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii is unveiling its new $12 million clinic today at Pearlridge Center in Aiea. The 7,000-square-foot center will open Oct. 4 and offer family medicine and pediatrics, as well as a pharmacy and laboratory services. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The power of water: Hamakua Springs aims to cut energy dependence. Tribune-Herald.

The parent company of Hawaii Electric Light Co. today announced a search for suppliers of “cleaner” types of diesel to power electrical plants on the Big Island and in Maui County. Big Island Now.

Maui

A bill to permit and regulate home-based businesses in Maui County will be reviewed Thursday morning by the Maui County Council's Planning Committee in the eighth-floor Council Chambers of the Kalana O Maui building. Maui News.

A few "birthday bash" political fundraisers are signaling the beginning of Maui County's election season, more than a year before voters cast general election ballots on Nov. 4, 2014. Maui News.

A new study by the University of Hawaii shows the state is on pace to lose 100 feet of beach in the coming decades and Maui is most at risk. Kailua beach has been fighting erosion for years but now a new study finds that Maui beaches are disappearing even faster. Hawaii News Now.

Haleakala Ranch Co., with its origins dating back to the Hawaiian monarchy, will celebrate its 125th anniversary with an exhibit that includes hand-woven rawhide lariats and traditional boots worn by its original Spanish-trained "paniolo" cowboys. Maui News.

Kauai

Without an explanation, the Kauai County Council deferred a bill that would bring significant increases to dog licensing fees. After passing the council’s Finance Committee last week, the bill was up for second and final reading Wednesday. Garden Island.

Kauai officials are stepping up efforts to teach visitors how to enjoy the Garden Isle without falling prey to its natural dangers. Pacific Business News.

The comfort station at the west end of the Poipu Beach Park is open following several months of renovations. The only evidence of the row of blue portable toilets is the overgrown grass marking the boundaries where the temporary facilities were located. Garden Island.

Molokai

U.S. Department of Agriculture Molokai inspector Chevy Levasa said it was just a regular day at work for her, but a finding a fungi last year landed her some recognition. She now holds the first report in the U.S. of a strain of fungi called frog-eye spot, or P. morindae, on a noni leaf on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

A small team in Kalaupapa is changing the way people think about trash with their award winning solid waste management program. Hawaii Public Radio.

Abercrombie 'very likely' to call special session on gay marriage, GMO fight flares on Big Island, military Stryker plan advances, sand for Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo, Hawaii gay pride parade (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Sunday it is "very likely" there will be a special legislative session on gay marriage. The governor, speaking to a Demo­cratic Party of Hawaii gathering at Ward Warehouse, appealed for patience while his administration drafts a gay-marriage bill that can withstand a potential legal challenge from opponents. Star-Advertiser.

For years, the stiffest opposition to same-sex marriages came from Hawaii's largest churches. But there's a growing movement within the religious community backing gay marriages. On Monday, representatives from 30 faith-based organizations will sign a resolution calling for the state legislature to pass a same-sex law during a meeting at the First Unitarian Church of Honolulu in Nuuanu. Hawaii News Now.

With the departure of Associate Justice Simeon Acoba from the Hawaii Supreme Court when he turns 70 next year, the Judicial Selection Commission is seeking applicants for his replacement. Gov. Neil Abercrombie will appoint the new justice, which means he will have named three jurists to constitute a majority on the five-member high court. Star-Advertiser.

There has been so much focus on the 2014 race between Brian Schatz and Colleen Hanabusa that many forget that the very same seat is up again in 2016. Civil Beat.

Members of New Hope Ministries are speaking up after their church is accused of underpaying to use public school facilities. Out of  five churches being sued, three are New Hope ministries: New Hope Oahu, Hawaii Kai, and Kapolei. KITV.

Under the Affordable Care Act, Hawaii could face millions of dollars in fines for the highest-grade health plans it offers public workers, adding to the already skyrocketing cost of health care for the state. Civil Beat.

The first foreign-flagged cruise ship of the season has sailed into port in Honolulu, kicking off the start of the visitor industry’s cruise season. The Sea Princess, a Princess Cruises ship, is the first foreign-flagged cruise ship to sail into port this season, which runs from August through May. Pacific Business News.

Rumbling through the Pentagon, the regional military formations like the Pacific Command and the ranks of defense intellectuals in think tanks is a proposal to rearrange the way the U.S. defends its worldwide interests. Civil Beat.

State roundup for August 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Sometime this year the Army for the first time may have unfettered use of a $42 million Battle Area Complex for Stryker armored vehicle training at Schofield Barracks, a proj­ect that started in 2005. Star-Advertiser.

A plan proposed more than 30 years ago to build a dedicated fuel pier at Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor is finally advancing as part of the state's effort to meet the changing needs of Hawaii's fuel and energy markets. The state Department of Transportation recently filed an environmental impact statement preparation notice for the proj­ect that will consolidate the handling of bulk fuel imports and exports at Piers 3 and 4 at Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

Several residents living downwind of a 169-year-old Nuuanu cemetery are making a stink about the odors from its old cremation units. Star-Advertiser.

To build, or not to build, the most expensive per mile heavy rail line in the country. It’s a sticky question. Three members of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco were asked during oral arguments Thursday to put a stop to the construction of the city’s planned $5.2 billion, elevated steel rail project that runs along a 20-mile corridor from West Oahu to Honolulu. Hawaii Reporter

Hawaii
Big Island Rainbow papaya farmers may have to tear out their trees within 30 months, or face fines and jail time, if a bill making the rounds on the Big Island is enacted. The law, which is expected to be submitted to the Hawaii County Council by council member Brenda Ford, proposes fines of up to $1,000 per day and 30 days in jail for farmers or landowners who are growing genetically modified crops. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County Council members can expect to debate dueling bills regarding genetically modified crops the next time they try to tackle the issue. Both Kohala Councilwoman Margaret Wille and South Kona/Ka‘u Councilwoman Brenda Ford are working on their own legislation that they plan to introduce shortly. Tribune-Herald.

The debate over genetically modified food is attracting the attention of some of the Big Island’s business leaders. On Monday, two island business groups are hosting what they are calling the “Hawaii Island GMO Summit” to allow their members to delve into the controversial issue. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

With island housing prices recovering from a recession-induced slide for the past few years, A&B Properties' 103-unit 'Aina O Kane condominium development in Kahului is gaining traction. Maui News.

Applications are due Sept. 30 for two alternate Native Hawaiian seats on the advisory council to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef Ecosystem Reserve. The reserve is part of the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. Maui News.

Maui Ranchers Struggle with Drought Conditions. Hawaii Public Radio.

Although single-family home sales prices dipped in July, Maui's real estate market nevertheless is on its way to recovery since the 2009 economic downturn, Realtors said last week. Maui News.

The state Department of Transportation has issued a reminder to motorists about several road projects that will impact traffic in isolated areas of Maui in the upcoming week from Aug. 17 to 23, 2013. Maui Now.

Kauai

In a few days, state officials will open a bid for a contract to replenish the sand on the beach west of Kikiaola Small Boar Harbor in Kekaha, and also fix damages to the harbor’s breakwall. “Construction, pending the receipt of the permits, is scheduled to start in December 2013, and the completion is scheduled for June 2014,” said engineer Eric Yuasa, of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation. Garden Island.

After meeting with county attorneys behind closed doors Wednesday, the Kauai County Council unanimously approved up to $50,000 to be spent on private attorneys to represent the county in dozens of appeals filed after denials of transient vacation rental permits. On June 12, the council voted 4-3 to defer for 90 days a resolution to prompt an investigation into the county Planning Department’s handling of TVR permits. Garden Island.

The 2013 edition of the Kauai Marathon is less than two weeks from unfolding, while organizers announced some complimentary events for the public. Online registration for the Fifth annual Kauai Marathon is being accepted at www.thekauaimarathon.com through Aug. 29. Spots are being accepted for the half or full marathon. Garden Island.

Obama library to go to Chicago but Hawaii still hopeful, federal judges hear Honolulu rail case, group sues for past-due church fees, Deedy jury to come back Monday, Kaui to fix historic swinging bridge, Hokulia development to reorganize, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Baby Obama on Hawaii beach courtesy photo

The Hawaii Tourism Authority board of directors was told Thursday that a decision has been made to locate President Barack Obama’s presidential library in Chicago, but Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz said Obama’s hometown of Honolulu is still “very much” in the running to host a presidential library or center. Pacific Business News.

There's still plenty of momentum in Hawaii's visitor industry, just not as much as Hawaii Tourism Authority officials originally thought. HTA, which manages the state government's tourism budget and sets tourism policy, had always expected 2014 would be weaker than the so-far record-setting 2013, and on Thursday the HTA downgraded its expectations further after hearing that the Japa­nese market this year is not performing as strongly as was once anticipated. Star-Advertiser.

Five churches have underpaid the state Department of Education for the use of public school facilities by more than $5.6 million over the past six years, according to a lawsuit unsealed this week in state court. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit are Mitch Kahle, founder of Hawaii Citizens for the Separation of Church and State, and public advocate Holly Huber. They filed their lawsuit under seal in March to give the state the opportunity to join in. When the state attorney general declined, a state judge ordered the lawsuit unsealed. Star-Advertiser.

Churches are massively shortchanging Hawaii’s public schools on rent and other costs for weekend-use of school facilities, according to a whistleblower lawsuit that was unsealed by the Circuit Court late Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Service Association lost $2.3 million in the second quarter, reversing a $9.4 million profit in the year-earlier period. The state's largest health insurer spent more on medical benefits and administrative expenses for its nearly 720,000 members than it collected in premium revenue in the quarter that ended June 30. The health plan filed its quarterly financial statements Thursday with the state Insurance Division. Star-Advertiser.

An appeal filed in the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of a group challenging the state's 2012 reapportionment and redistricting plan as unconstitutional could be decided by the end of the year, an attorney for the plaintiffs says. Star-Advertiser.

The state prison system is increasing requirements for people applying to become corrections officers and already weeded out some sub-standard applicants during its first more difficult application test earlier this month. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for August 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

Federal judges weighing the appeal against Honolulu's rail project spent most of a pivotal court hearing Thursday questioning whether they even have jurisdiction to make a final ruling on the matter. The judges' heavy focus during oral arguments on their own role in the case — rather than the merits of the lawsuit itself — could signal more challenges ahead for opponents of the $5.26 billion elevated-train proj­ect, attorneys watching the court battle say. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco heard oral arguments from both sides in the federal rail transit lawsuit today. The proceeding was transmitted via live video feed to the Honolulu Federal Courthouse. A Circuit Court jury will return Monday for deliberations in State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial after the prosecution and defense urged the jurors Thursday to consider the type of law enforcement officer they want in the community. Hawaii Public Radio.

In a nearly hour-long hearing that was streamed live to the U.S. District Courthouse in Honolulu, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco heard arguments Thursday on whether the city adequately studied alternatives to a $5.3 billion heavy rail system. KITV

Opponents and supporters of the rail project made their way out of federal court, where they watched by television the hearing by a three-judge panel in San Francisco. KHON2.

Should a federal agent out for a night on the town with an old college buddy have waded into the middle of a brewing situation between customers at a Waikiki McDonald’s? Once he did, was he obligated as a law enforcement officer to follow through? Civil Beat.

Special-education students who exceed the state's cutoff age for services can continue to receive free public education while challenging that age limit, a 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel ruled Wednesday. The opinion stems from a lawsuit filed against the state Department of Education by a special-education student whose state-funded tuition at a private school in Hono­lulu was stopped in 2011 when he turned 20. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The creditor and debtors of the bankrupt Hokulia luxury development have come up with a reorganization plan they say will revive the long-stalled development and ensure the county gets its $20 million to complete the Mamalahoa bypass. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie doesn’t yet have the official version of the proposed West Hawaii Fishery Management rules package, Department of Land and Natural Resources officials said Thursday evening. West Hawaii Today.

The Army is moving forward with plans for a $29 million Infantry Platoon Battle Course at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

When other companies were struggling during the recent economic downturn, at least one West Hawaii business saw steady growth. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

After a meeting that spanned two days, most of which was conducted behind closed doors in executive session, Maui County Council's Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee advanced to the full council two proposals regarding how the committee will proceed with its investigation into the possible misuse of public funds to demolish the Old Wailuku Post Office. Maui News.

US Senator Brian Schatz today announced the distribution of $800,000 in federal funds to the County of Maui Department of Transportation for its ADA compliant Bus Stop Shelter and Signage Program. Maui Now.

A minor special management area permit for the Rock & Brews restaurant project in Paia is being challenged in an appeal to the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

The administration told the Kauai County Council Wednesday that the reconstruction of Kapaia Swinging Bridge will be 10 times cheaper than a $2 million estimate two years ago. County Engineer Larry Dill said the latest preliminary estimate to replace both towers is about $100,000. Garden Island.

The Kauai Planning Commission on Tuesday deferred for two months any action related to a request from Longs Drugs CVS to build a new store on a protected coconut grove in Waipouli. Garden Island.

Mary Pigao, a resident of the Isenberg Tract, urged people to visit the results of a feasibility study on the proposed adolescent treatment center Tuesday. Garden Island.

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative and Kauai County are planning to collaborate on energy-saving projects such as a solar photovoltaic system and battery storage on county buildings, as well as pilot programs on time-of-use rates and electric-vehicle initiatives in an effort to reduce the Garden Isle’s fossil fuel consumption and lower the cost of energy, KIUC and the county said Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Military seeks to exhume Punchbowl cemetery unknowns, Oahu Democrats want gay marriage session, Honolulu preps for rail hearing, tons of taxpayer-purchased food go to waste, Lanai gets new emergency room, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Punchbowl cemetery courtesy photo

The Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command wants to take the unprecedented step of exhuming all of the Dec. 7, 1941, casualties of the USS Oklahoma buried as "unknowns" at Punchbowl cemetery — more than 330 crew members — to help it reach a higher number of annual identifications mandated by Congress. But the Hawaii-based military command, known as JPAC, is getting resistance from the Navy, which prefers to maintain the "sanctity" of the graves at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

After one of its best first quarters ever, Hawaii's hot hotel industry cooled off some in the second quarter, allowing New York to reclaim the distinction of having the nation's costliest nightly hotel rate. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Democrats on Saturday moved to temper an intraparty fight over traditional marriage and focus on persuading Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the state Legislature to return in special session to consider marriage equality. Star-Advertiser.

The fight in Congress over eliminating sugar subsidies has been good to members from Hawaii. The delegation has raked in tens of thousands of dollars in the past couple years as the U.S. sugar industry spends millions to convince Congress that it needs help in order to compete with foreign producers. Civil Beat.

Hawaii struggles to keep new teachers. Associated Press.

Top U.S. Navy commanders in the Asia-Pacific region have formed a task force to discuss sexual assault issues as the branch fights to stem a military-wide problem within its ranks. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Judiciary is warning the public to be on the alert for an apparent telephone scam by a person claiming to be a court employee. Associated Press.

State roundup for August 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Heading into Thursday's hearing before the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, proponents and opponents of the city's $5.3 billion rail system expressed confidence in their positions. Hawaii News Now.

The multi-billion dollar Honolulu rail project was only minimally stunned by the U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii for its failure to adequately study the project’s possible effects on Chinatown and Mother Waldron Park (an old urban park/playground), and for its failure to articulate the reasons why a tunnel under Beretania Street (a major city arterial) was rejected.  But bumpy track still looms ahead. Hawaii Reporter.

A proposal to give the City Council more power over the Honolulu Board of Water Supply remains alive, but the board has gained some breathing room. Star-Advertiser.

Trying not to smell the stench from the Ala Wai is becoming a challenge. Residents say ever since the city began working on removing the temporary sewer pipe from the canal the smell is almost too much to bear. KITV4.

Teenage Girl to State: Clean Up the Ala Wai and Comply With Law. Civil Beat.

Where there once was a flat and empty rooftop, there now grows a garden. The 4,400-square-foot garden atop the Institute for Human Services' service center on Kaaahi Street is expected to provide healthy meals, training opportunities and an escape from the industrial setting of Iwilei. Star-Advertiser.

When it comes to recycling…Hawaii has struggled with a lack of resources and funding. But a new hands-on project in Oahu is taking a do-it-yourself approach. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Island Food Basket had to throw out more than 19,000 pounds of food — almost 10 tons — because it couldn’t distribute it fast enough after the County Council declared a food emergency and gave it $275,000 last year. That’s according to a report the Food Basket sent Monday to Council Chairman J Yoshimoto after a West Hawaii Today investigation revealed the nonprofit had not met the reporting requirements in the May 3, 2012, contract where the council took the unprecedented step of dipping into the county disaster fund for the money.

A series of amendments that would ban scuba spearfishing and limit aquarium fish collecting in West Hawaii waters is set to go to Gov. Neil Abercrombie next week, Department of Land and Natural Resources Chairman William Aila said Friday. West Hawaii Today.

A University of Hawaii research program that involved six people living in a Mars-like habitat on the slopes of Mauna Loa volcano is about to come to an end after four months. The press is invited to a media conference later this week with the researchers who have been living in the habitat and emerging only in space suits. Civil Beat.

The fast-growing albizia trees, an invasive species, have earned a reputation in Hawaii as “junk trees,” due to their propensity for spreading and growing like weeds and posing a danger to people, power lines, vehicles and homes due to their brittle nature and tendency to collapse. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled Thursday that the Maui County Council violated the state open meetings "Sunshine Law" in approving a Wai­lea development, but declined to invalidate the county's approval for the residential community. The court instead sent the case back to Maui Circuit Court to determine the amount of attorney fees for the five residents who filed the lawsuit contending the law was violated. Star-Advertiser.

The plaintiffs in a "Sunshine Law" challenge to the Maui County Council's approval of the Honua'ula project in 2008 claimed victory Friday in a ruling on the case Thursday by the Hawaii Supreme Court. Maui News.

The third of four wells that aim to space out pumping on the south side of the Iao aquifer to help protect the main water source for Central and South Maui could go out to bid soon and possibly be operational in a year, said the deputy director of the Department of Water Supply on Thursday. Maui News.

Native Hawaiian community and Maui labor leader Perry Artates resigned last week from his post as a Hawaiian Homes Commission member after pleading guilty to federal wire fraud and false loan application charges in June, according to state officials and federal court documents. Maui News.

Kauai
Intermediate Court Ruling Could Lead to Substantial Cash Settlement for Victims of Ka Loko Dam Breach. Hawaii Reporter.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation is holding a public information meeting next week to discuss the upcoming Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor Sand Bypass System and Breakwater root repair projects. Garden Island.

Kauai County officials say vandalism is the reason behind a decision to close a popular beach park at night. Starting Monday, Hanamaulu Beach Park will be closed from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. Associated Press.

Kauai County Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr. says he plans to select a site for a proposed residential adolescent drug treatment center by the end of the year. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council’s Finance Committee deferred for two weeks a proposal that represents the last stage of a three-year property tax reform to address inequities and create a fair system going forward. Garden Island.

Lanai

The blessing of its new emergency room and diagnostic lab Friday may be just the beginning of Lanai Community Hospital's efforts to further satisfy the health care needs of island residents and the plans of billionaire Larry Ellison's Pulama Lana'i. Maui News.

Hula good for your health, Abercrombie staff donates to campaign, federal court won't consider judge letter in rail lawsuit, Obama names Punahou classmate ambassador, Maui Ritz-Carlton timeshare going hotel, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii hula (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Learning hula can lower blood pressure for people with persistent hypertension and help rehabilitate patients after heart attacks or cardiac surgery, according to research presented Thursday at the American Psychological Association's convention at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama on Thursday nominated a former classmate from Punahou School as an ambassador of the United States to the Office of the United Nations and other international organizations in Geneva. Star-Advertiser.

Since taking office to fanfare in the United States and in India, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard’s Hindu faith hasn’t been a prominent part of her national image. Civil Beat.

Three dozen employees of the Abercrombie administration, including a lot of cabinet directors and their deputies, have donated money to their boss's re-election. Civil Beat.

Hawaii hotel rates climbed 10 percent higher across the Islands last week in comparison to the same week last year, while occupancy changes were mixed, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

National Weather Service officials in Hawaii say preliminary data shows the center of Tropical Storm Flossie never hit land when it passed through the state this week. Associated Press.

State roundup for August 2. Associated Press.

Oahu

As a pivotal hearing on the city's planned rail project approaches, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals announced Thursday that it won't consider a recent, eyebrow-raising letter from federal judges in Hawaii critical of the project. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is addressing two hot button hiking trails Lanikai Pillbox and Maunawili Falls in windward Oahu. Residents living at the foot of both trails have complained about excessive crowds, illegal parking, vandalism and safety concerns. KHON2.

Some well-meaning and creative additions to the graves of loved ones at the orderly Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery are resulting in some undignified disorder at the final resting place for 10,411 veterans and dependents. Star-Advertiser.

A McDonald’s security guard testified Thursday that Kollin Elderts bullied and irritated a customer before the confrontation that escalated to State Department special agent Christopher Deedy fatally shooting Elderts at the Waikiki fast-food restaurant. Star-Advertiser.

Here are two indisputable facts: Kollin Elderts is dead. Christopher Deedy shot him. But whether Deedy, a U.S. State Department special agent, gets convicted of murder is a question that largely centers on Hawaii’s self-defense law. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Changing requirements by Medicare and insurance companies are putting burdens on hospitals to prove the care they provide is high quality, North Hawaii Community Hospital Board Chairman Bob Momsen said Thursday evening. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo moved a step closer Thursday to a rezoning that would make it easier to erect housing and commercial facilities on 312 acres that includes the campus and surrounding land, despite concerns over the county surrendering a future connector road slated to run through the campus. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission voted in support of a new commercial development proposed for Pahoa on Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
Just a week before he was scheduled for spinal fusion surgery, Baraka Kanaan was ordered off of an airplane on his hands and knees. The Maui native, partially paralyzed from a 2000 car accident is suing Delta Air Lines aftr it refused to provide him with a lift and other wheelchair accommodations, even after he arranged for those services ahead of time. Hawaii News Now.

A 50-room hotel will replace unsold time-share units at Maui’s former Ritz-Carlton time-share and condominium resort in Kapalua under a plan by the property’s new owner and management firm. Star-Advertiser.

Hana Ranch Partners’ proposed sale of thousands of acres of Hana Ranch land on Maui to Bio-Logical Capital for some $35 million is in serious doubts after a lawsuit was filed by one of the owners against his partners to stop the sale from closing. Pacific Business News.

A court hearing has been postponed until September on a motion to judicially dissolve the embattled nonprofit Wailuku Main Street Association Inc./Tri-Isle Main Street Resource Center. Maui News.

If anyone has suffered storm-related damage from Tropical Depression Flossie, they are asked to report it to the Maui County Civil Defense Agency to ensure the county has complete information on damage. Maui News.

A contract dispute between DISH Network and Raycom Media has led to the loss of CBS and NBC channels for DISH customers in Hawaii, according to an announcement. Maui News.

Kauai

Bill 2491, the GMO bill, goes to the council’s Economic Development Committee Monday, when council members will begin working on the bill, discussing flaws and strengths, and potentially propose amendments. Garden Island.

The U.S. Department of Energy announced Thursday that it will invest $5 million in a Kauai-based biofuels energy project. Hawaii BioEnergy, established in 2006 by three of the state’s largest landowners, will use the funding to develop and test a cost-effective photosynthetic open-pond system to produce algal oil at its research facility near Lihue, according to a DOE release. Garden Island.

Hawaii reapportionment upheld, federal judges oppose Honolulu rail route, race becomes issue in Deedy trial, Schatz and Hanabusa raise campaign cash, roving state reps get free trips, police raise to cost millions, Kauai missile range greets new commander, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission’s justification in redrawing legislative districts so Hawaii Island received a fourth Senate seat embodied “rational, legitimate and substantial state policies,” a federal court panel said Thursday in dismissing a lawsuit challenging the new maps’ constitutionality. West Hawaii Today.

A federal three-judge panel has ruled in favor of the reapportionment plan Hawaii used during the most recent general election. Associated Press.

The 2012 reapportionment and redistricting plan does not violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court said in upholding its previous decision to deny an injunction sought by a group of voters that challenged the plan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii does not have to count some 108,000 “nonpermanent residents" — mostly students and military — when drawing the boundaries of state districts, according to a federal court order issued today. Civil Beat.

A typhoon is barreling toward Taiwan where a group of Hawaii residents are visiting this week. Governor Neil Abercrombie was on that tour, but cut his trip short and raced home a day earlier to miss the storm. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa opened her Democratic primary campaign against U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz with $500,000 in fundraising, her campaign announced Thursday, well below the mark set by Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

Gift disclosure statements filed last month by two state lawmakers revealed an unexpected and intriguing donor from half a world away: The Republic of Azerbaijan. The thriving oil-fueled nation just north of Iran flew Reps. Rida Cabanilla and Mark Takai halfway across the world for the U.S.-Azerbaijan Convention in May. Civil Beat.

State employees and legislators receiving free golf perks from companies that do business with the state have caught the attention of the Hawaii Ethics Commission. Associated Press.

CNBC has released its report America's Top States for Doing Business 2013. No surprise to business owners in Hawaii that the 50th state came in dead last in the annual ranking and is considered the worst place to do business in the country. Hawaii Reporter.

Occupancy dipped a little at Hawaii hotels in May, which hoteliers say will probably be their worst-performing month of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels experienced double-digit increases in occupancy during the week of July 4 when compared to the same week last year, while occupancy changes were mixed across the four major islands, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Hiroshima Still Echoes in Hawaii Nearly 70 Years After Atomic Bomb Blast. Civil Beat.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

The federal District Court in Hawaii took renewed aim this week at the planned route for the city's rail line, saying it fails to meet the $5.26 billion project's stated purpose by ending at Ala Moana Center — a shopping mall — instead of the University of Hawaii's Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway has blasted the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s decision to run the proposed rail transit route to Ala Moana Center and urged the agency to reconsider an alternate route that would include a tunnel under Beretania Street. Pacific Business News.

All 11 of Hawaii’s federal judges have submitted a letter to The Federal Transit Administration and the city’s Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation that opponents of the city’s elevated steel rail project are calling a “bombshell” and “unprecedented.” Hawaii Reporter.

In a time of tight budgets, a new Hawaii police union contract will cost the City and County of Honolulu an additional $200 million over the next four years, according to a memo Mayor Kirk Caldwell sent to the city council earlier this week. Civil Beat.

An unanticipated expense in the arbitrated four-year contract awarded the police officers union will cost Oahu taxpayers about 36 percent more than city officials had originally anticipated. Star-Advertiser.

Prosecution raises race as issue in Deedy trial. Hawaii News Now.

Racial overtones surfaced during State Department special agent Christopher Deedy's murder trial Thursday with testimony from a McDonald's restaurant customer who supposedly was racially harassed and a fellow agent who testified that he told Deedy some "locals" don't like mainlanders. Star-Advertiser.

Audit of UH Culinary Arts programs uncovers lax accounting, oversight of food inventory. KITV4.

Hawaii

The USDA will spend $1 million to combat coffee berry borer on Hawaii Island, officials said Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii island coffee farmers are getting a $1 million boost from the federal government to help in their fight against the coffee berry borer, an invasive species that is "devastating" their operations. Star-Advertiser.

A spokesman for Mayor Billy Kenoi said the county will “have to find the money within the current year’s budget” to fund raises for police officers. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Human Services has suspended the operating license of a Kailua-Kona day care center for the second time this year, the state announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

There's been lots of discussion throughout the state about the need to have more farmers and to have more of our food grown right here at home. On Hawaii Island, there's a program to develop new farmers--and they're looking for candidates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilo nurse honored for efforts to curb infections. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Many of Maui's nonprofit social and human service agencies are facing uncertainty as they move into the fifth month of the federal budget cutbacks--known as "sequestration"--that went into affect on March 1. Maui Weekly.

Both Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company on Maui, and Monsanto Company on Molokaʻi were cited by the Hawaiʻi Department of Health Clean Air Branch after the agency received dust complaints, officials said. Maui Now.

Mayor Alan Arakawa recently visited Hangzhou, China, capital of eastern China's Zhejiang Province, where he attended the Second Annual World Cultural Forum from May 17 to 19. Maui Weekly.

After a morning of presiding over court cases, 2nd Circuit Judge Richard Bissen walked across the street from the courthouse to his doctor's office for his regular checkup. Just hours later, after undergoing an electrocardiogram at the doctor's office and being sent to Maui Memorial Medical Center for more testing to examine his heart activity, Bissen was taken to the operating room for emergency heart surgery. Maui News.

Kauai

In grand style, the Pacific Missile Range Facility welcomed its new commander — and bid farewell to his predecessor — Thursday inside the facility’s base operations hangar. Garden Island.

The three defendants named in the civil rights lawsuit filed by Kauai County Councilman Tim Bynum have filed motions to dismiss the case this week, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Attorneys Kyle Smith and Gerard Jervis, who represent the Kauai’s Westside community in an ongoing lawsuit against Pioneer Hi-Bred International, have compiled a list of chemicals used by the company. They will disclose the information during a public meeting beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday at Waimea Canyon Middle School. Garden Island.

A few hours after being posted online Wednesday afternoon, the “Save Coco Palms” petition was pulled without explanation. Garden Island.

Molokai

A year after a fire destroyed Hotel Molokai’s kitchen , Hula Shores restaurant and bar is one step closer to repairing and reopening its dining facilities. Hotel Molokai was approved for repairs at the June 26 Molokai Planning Commission meeting, securing their ability to begin construction soon. Molokai Dispatch.

Kahoolawe

Funds for the cleanup and restoration of Kahoolawe are expected to run out in 2016, yet only 13 percent of the job has been done, according to a report issued Thursday by the state legislative auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Google Street View captures Hawaii scenery, Honolulu Rail gets $250M, security guard laws take state by surprise, NSA probes reporter, historic preservation still in trouble, spear fishing at issue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rob Pacheco at Akaka Falls, Google Street View courtesy photo

Hawaii’s volcanoes, rainforests and beaches will soon be visible on Google Street View. Google Inc. said Thursday it was lending its backpack cameras to a Hawaii trail guide company to capture panoramic images of island hiking trails. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau will be using a Google Maps trekker to provide one more way to get visitors to see that the isles mark the spot for their next journey. Star-Advertiser.

As U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye lay dying in Walter Reed National Military Medical Center last December, his two closest confidants were given a somber task: Deliver one final letter to Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Civil Beat.

Solar energy has been saving customers hundreds of dollars on their electricity bill, but only for homeowners who can afford thousands of dollars in upfront installation costs. That's about to change. Through green infrastructure financing, residents can apply for state loans to cover the costs of installing rooftop photovoltaic systems or solar water heaters. Customers then repay the loans over time from the energy savings on their electrical bills. Hawaii News Now.

Federal officials previously established a list of 43 criteria that the state agency in charge of protecting Hawaii’s historic and cultural resources had to improve on to avoid being decertified and defunded. A new report from the National Park Service on Thursday found that the state agency had satisfied just nine of the criteria outlined in a two-year "corrective action plan" that was designed to put the State Historic Preservation Division on track. Civil Beat.

A battle is brewing between the state and federal government and it centers on sharks. Three years ago Hawaii was the first government in the world to ban the sale, possession, trade and distribution of shark fins. But now a federal rule threatens to supersede that law which local lawmakers and advocates aren't happy about. Hawaii News Now.

The law was passed nearly three years ago, but new licensing requirements for security guards are still catching many by surprise. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has been flooded with applications, which began arriving by the hundreds in late March. KITV4.

Three more cases of hepatitis A in Hawaii have been linked to a recalled Townsend Farms frozen organic berry mix that caused a multistate outbreak of the illness, bringing the isle total to seven cases. Star-Advertiser.

According to data from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, there are about 153 Hawaiian monk seals left in the eight main Hawaiian Islands and a little over 900 in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Civil Beat.

State roundup for June 28. Associated Press.

Oahu

Federal lawmakers agreed Thursday to give Honolulu's planned rail project its full $250 million funding share for 2014 — the single largest grant for any new startup project in the nation, officials say. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Department officers upset over one captain's attempts to check up on them led to an outbreak of the "blue flu" Monday night, when about half the officers in East Honolulu's District 7 called in sick, sources said. Hawaii News Now.

The long-delayed update to the Ewa Development Plan was approved unanimously by the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee on Thursday, positioning it for a final vote of the full Council in the weeks ahead. Star-Advertiser.

Reporter's Diary: How I Got Probed at the NSA. Civil Beat.

When Paul Groesbeck became executive director of the Life Foundation in 1992, the HIV and AIDS treatment and prevention organization was working with 306 patients — and a year later about 100 of them had died. Star-Advertiser.

City crews uncovered a possible sinkhole in the Kaimuki area Thursday night. It’s on Saint Louis Drive next to City Mill. KHON2.

Hawaiian Telcom, Inc. said Thursday that it has sold a three-acre portion of its 10-acre baseyard in Mapunapuna on Oahu to Honolulu-based Wasa Electrical Services Inc. for about $13.9 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources will consider strengthening fishery regulations off the Kona Coast when it meets today. The board is scheduled to discuss and vote on several proposed rules, including ones that would ban spear­fishing by fishermen diving with the aid of scuba gear and limit the collecting of fish for aquariums to a list of 40 species. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources will consider strengthening fishery regulations in waters off the Big Island’s western coast when it meets on Friday. The board is scheduled to discuss and vote on several proposed rules, including ones that would that would ban spearfishing by fishermen diving with the aid of scuba gear and limit aquarium fish collecting to a list of 40 species. Associated Press.

Hawaii County has purchased additional air monitors for the Fire Department to help detect the release of hydrogen sulfide at Puna Geothermal Venture. Tribune-Herald.

A “stakeholders” task force to recommend ways to make the Hawaii County property tax system more fair has become mired in controversy even before it has been formed. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island farmers and ranchers plan to rally in opposition of Bill 79 today at 2 p.m. in front of the county building in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members began to untangle Wednesday financing arrangements that enabled Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center to provide low-income housing but also left taxpayers with millions of dollars in unpaid loans.Maui News.

The animal rights organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, also known as PETA, has filed a lawsuit in US District Court against the USDA, that includes implication of the East Maui Animal Refuge in Haʻikū, an announcement said. The suit claims the USDA allegedly failed to protect birds covered by the federal Animal Welfare Act. Maui Now.

The embattled Wailuku Main Street Association Inc./Tri-Isle Main Street Resource Center soon may be dissolved following a motion filed Tuesday in 2nd Circuit Court by the state Attorney General's Office. Maui News.

Verdict on reopened pool: warm and wonderful. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council unanimously voted to move forward a bill that would allow the county to govern the use of pesticides and genetically modified organisms on the island. Garden Island.

Kauai County is preparing for a large crowd at a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to strictly regulate pesticide use by large farms. The County Council voted 7-0 Wednesday night to pass Bill 2491 on its first reading. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would increase license fees for dogs met strong opposition from hunters Wednesday. Garden Island.