Sierra Club sues for solar tax credits, Honolulu rail back in court, Abercrombie touts land buy, Akaka honored on Senate floor, OHA officers installed, Kauai rethinks property tax exemptions, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu solar panels courtesy photo

The Sierra Club Hawaii chapter and Earthjustice filed a lawsuit Tuesday to try to prevent the state from enforcing new restrictions on solar tax credits, prompting Gov. Neil Abercrombie to accuse the environmentalists of protecting "people who cheat." Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Sen. Daniel Akaka was praised on the floor of the U.S. Senate on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The head of Hawaii's public school teachers union says the decision to turn down a take-it-or-leave-it two-year settlement offer that included annual 2 percent raises was because of the lack of clarity about a revised teacher evaluation system linked to student performance. Star-Advertiser.

A new performance-based teacher evaluation system and reduced sick leave are the key issues preventing the Hawaii State Teachers Association from agreeing to a new contract with the state, union leaders and educators said. Civil Beat.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs honored a newly elected trustee and four re-elected trustees during an investiture ceremony Tuesday at Central Union Church. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs today officially added one new face to its Board of Trustees and applauded the re-election of four incumbents amid the splendor of an investiture ceremony attended by an estimated 500 guests. Hawaii Reporter.

The Center for Biological Diversity, a mainland conservation group, has taken the unusual step of pushing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to designate the Northwestern Hawaiian islands and parts of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch as a Superfund cleanup site. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the nation’s second-healthiest state behind Vermont, with broad health insurance coverage and better lifestyle choices than the rest of the country, according to America’s Health Rankings 2012 issued Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A growing number of Hawaii drivers convicted of drunk driving are installing ignition interlock devices in their cars. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for December 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

A federal judge is scheduled to hear arguments this morning on whether to issue a court order halting the city’s $5.26 billion rail project linking East Kapolei to Ala Moana Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of acres of rich Oahu farmland and a site where Hawaiian royalty once went to give birth will be protected from development under a plan announced Tuesday by public agencies and a nonprofit organization. Associated Press.

The Trust for Public Land is transferring more than 1,700 acres of land in Central Oahu acquired from the George Galbraith Trust to two Hawaii state agencies, which will preserve the former pineapple fields for farming. Pacific Business News.

The state plans to grade approximately 1,200 acres of land it purchased from the George Galbraith Estate within the next few months to make it available to farmers by the middle of next year. Star-Advertiser.

Demise Of Community Recycling Bins A Policy Failure. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Former County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi has been hired as a deputy prosecuting attorney in the county Prosecutor’s Office in Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Items before the county Board of Ethics today range from accusations the county acted improperly in securing $10 million in bond anticipation notes from a local bank, to allegations a former County Council member lied when he said his polling place did not open on time in the primary election. West Hawaii Today.

Kealakehe High School returned to a normal finals week schedule Tuesday, Principal Wil Murakami said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

No retailers in Maui County made underage tobacco sales during an operation this spring where minors attempted to purchase cigarettes, the state Department of Health said Monday. Maui News.

Maui County saw double-digit increases in both the percentage of homes and condominiums sold last month and the median prices for those categories. Maui News.

Seabury Hall's Izabela Hamilton's gouache creation inspired by the Na Pali Coast on Kauai was named one of three state finalists in the he Alaska Airlines' "Paint the Plane" student contest, where the winner will have his or her design painted on an Alaska Airlines 737 jetliner. Maui News.

Kauai

The Cost Control Commission recently asked the Kaua‘i County Council to raise by 300 percent the bare-minimum real property tax on Kaua‘i. Now, the commission is considering raising the age limit for senior citizens to qualify for a hefty exemption. Garden Island.

The new Kaua‘i County Council, with two new members, has an action-packed agenda today for its first committee meeting. Garden Island.

Only a handful of people were present early Tuesday morning at a Kaua‘i Planning Commission meeting to witness the nail in the coffin on Kealiakealanani Agriculture Subdivision, a project that five years ago promised to become a model ag community, with nearly 200 ag lots and a diversified crop production including taro, tea and cacao. Garden Island.


Niihau

The clouds cleared and Niihau's cliffs burst into view as we hovered over the nearly 4,000-foot-deep Kaulakahi Channel looking for whales. A red light on the helicopter's control panel flashed and beeped, only adding to my excitement for exploring the not entirely "forbidden island." Star-Advertiser.

Pearl Harbor attack remembered, Hawaii legislators to get 25% pay hike, Japan earthquake no tsunami threat to Hawaii, active shark season, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Attack on Pearl Harbor, historical military file photo

Seventy-one years ago today, when shock and horror came to Hawaii in the form of a Japa­nese aerial attack, the Hono­lulu Star-Bulletin sent out reporter Elizabeth Peet McIntosh to cover the casualties and aftermath. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu after Pearl Harbor: A report published for the first time, 71 years later. Washington Post.

Gladys Aiona Brandt: The Unpublished Pearl Harbor Day Speech. Civil Beat.

More than 2,000 people are gathering at Pearl Harbor on Friday to mark the 71st anniversary of the Japanese attack that killed thousands of people and launched the United States into World War II. Associated Press.

Friday will be a somber day at Hawaii’s biggest tourist attraction, the Arizona Memorial at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Legislator Salaries Going Up 25 Percent. Civil Beat.

Sixteen months into a rancorous labor dispute, the state and public school teachers union appear to be making progress toward a contract that would begin July 1. Star-Advertiser.

As teacher participation in "work to the rule" demonstrations has swelled in recent weeks, some educators say the state is trying to undermine their protests.Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii is tied with Vermont as the state with the eighth lowest unemployment rate in October 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Civil Beat.

A strong earthquake has shook an area off the eastern coast of Japan, but it does not appear to have been strong enough to generate a tsunami threat to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor-elect Kirk Caldwell raised just less than $1.7 million for his mayoral campaign in which the former city managing director toppled two political heavyweights en route to the city's top office. Star-Advertiser.

Kirk Caldwell and the Super PAC that supported him spent more than $5 million to win this year’s Honolulu mayoral election – tripling the expenditures of losing candidate Ben Cayetano, according to reports filed today with the state Campaign Spending Commission. Hawaii Reporter.

Members of the Honolulu City Council have agreed to keep Chairman Ernie Martin in the top leadership position as the calendar starts on a new year of business. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation on Thursday approved $25.9 million to cover additional costs to a contractor because of a delay in construction prompted by a Hawaii Supreme Court ruling. Star-Advertiser.

More than half of all visitors to Hawai’i stay in Waikiki.  That equates to nearly 3 million tourists annually that use or consume staggering amounts of electricity and water to make their visits comfortable and enjoyable. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu Police Department is upgrading its website, reconstructing it to include an area where HPD detectives can seek the public's help locating suspects by publishing photos, video or other information related to their cases. Star-Advertiser.

Twenty Native Hawaiian middle and high school students on Oahu are participating in a nine-month marine debris tracking project that includes science lessons, cultural activities and community service. Star-Advertiser.

Byron's Drive-In, established in 1965 near Honolulu Airport, will close at the end of February to make way for the landowner's redevelopment plans. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Kealakehe High School will remain closed to students Friday, Dec. 7 after a spate of fights on the campus this week. Hawaii 24/7

The head of the Senate Education Committee believes cancelling Friday's classes at Kealakehe High School is an unpopular but wise decision. KHON2.

Kona Community Hospital is now nearly one hundred years old.  The Hospital Board is beginning to plan its replacement...with input from the community. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

The seven shark attacks in Maui County waters this year have many asking if there’s an increased danger of getting in the ocean right now. Maui Now.

Wailuku Main Street Association, a nonprofit organization that has been the recipient of more than $2.2 million in county funding in the last decade, and its board chairman, Thomas Cannon, have been ordered by a judge to comply with a subpoena and to hand over additional financial and organization documents to the state attorney general by Jan. 3. Maui News.

The Wahikuli-Honokowai Watershed Management Plan will be completed by the end of the month with runoff to be handled in a coral-friendly manner, said members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at a public meeting Tuesday at the Lahaina Civic Center. Maui News.

Convening on Maui for the first time since the mid-1800s, the Hawaii Supreme Court heard oral arguments this morning in a criminal case focused on a defendant's constitutional right to be represented by an attorney of his choice. Maui News.

The Government of Singapore Investment Corp. will buy the Grand Wailea on Maui and three other luxury U.S. resorts owned by a group led by New York-based Paulson & Co. for $1.5 billion after no other bidders stepped up to bid on the bankrupt resort properties. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

Pakala Beach, located on the Westside, was reopened Thursday, a day after a man was bit on the foot by a shark. Garden Island.

Roberts Hawai‘i is the operator of the Sunny Po‘ipu express, a shuttle designed for visitors bound “from the airport to paradise” on Kaua‘i’s South Shore. The service was launched on Nov. 1. Garden Island.

The annual Lights on Rice Parade is scheduled to begin 6 p.m. today and portions of the parade route will be closed to traffic. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism hot, Honolulu addresses solar PV permit backlog, middle class tax cut could cost Hawaii $1B, phone scammer calls Kauai police chief, state funds for Hilo hospital, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Polynesian Cultural Center (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Increased tourism is the gift that keeps on giving for Hawaii's visitor industry, which moved past the traditional October shoulder season with nary a slowdown in sight and is heading toward a strong year-end finish and start next year. Star-Advertiser.

Japan overtook the East Coast of the United States in October to become Hawaii’s second largest visitor market, after the West Coast market, according to statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii is on track to welcome a record number of visitors to the islands this year, the Hawaii Tourism Authority said Thursday. Associated Press.

Allowing tax cuts on middle class families to expire could result in almost a billion-dollar reduction in consumer spending in Hawaii in 2013. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of teachers from 51 public schools statewide participated in grass-roots “work to rule” protests Thursday to call for a resolution to a labor dispute entering its 17th month. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii strives to cut its dependence on imported oil, researchers at the University of Hawaii say that state policymakers are missing a major part of the equation when it comes to energy efficiency goals. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's energy costs could drop by as much as $2 billion a year if natural gas not oil was used to generate electricity, according to the head of Hawaii's gas company. Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the second-least competitive commercial health insurance market in the country, according to an American Medical Association study released this week. West Hawaii Today.

Local attorney and former state lawmaker John Carroll is taking another whack at the Jones Act, the federal law that supports America’s commercial shipping fleet but is also criticized as inflating Hawaii’s cost of living. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents will follow at least one recommendation from a Senate Special Accountability Committee that looked into the fundraising concert debacle at UH-Manoa.Star-Advertiser.

State Auditor Marion Higa will retire midway through her current eight-year term on Dec. 31, after 21 years. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

A bill allowing third-party electrical engineers to make final inspections of newly installed photovoltaic systems on Oahu got a key approval from the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee on Thursday despite objections raised by city inspectors. Star-Advertiser.

Installation of Solar Photovoltaic Systems to generate electricity on O’ahu has more than doubled each year since 2009 … fueled in large part by federal, state and public utility incentives.   But this has caused the workload for electrical inspectors to quadruple…and the Honolulu City Council is seeking temporary relief. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gun registrations on Oahu are headed toward record numbers, resulting in long lines at for buyers seeking permits for their firearms. Hawaii News Now.

In a firm show of support for rail, a Honolulu City Council committee voted 8-1 Thursday to authorize Mayor Peter Carlisle's administration to sign an agreement to accept $1.55 billion in federal funding to help finance the city's planned train project. Star-Advertiser.

Starting Saturday, the State Health Department will allow Honolulu police officers to take people an HPD psychologist believes may be suffering from mental illness to four Oahu hospitals that do not have in-patient psychiatric wards. Hawaii News Now.

Kailua residents are gearing up for the arrival of President Barack Obama and the First Family. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hilo Medical Center can begin a series of much-needed repairs and renovations to the East Hawaii hospital after Gov. Neil Abercrombie released on Thursday $3.7 million in taxpayer funds for the projects. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Army maintains that it does not need a license from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to possess depleted uranium at its training ranges in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Kealakehe Elementary School special education teacher Julie Vernon held a sign protesting the continuing lack of contract between the Hawaii State Teachers Association and the state Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The founder of an organization opposing the Public Land Development Corp. and an official with the Sierra Club Hawaii Chapter will be discussing the controversial PLDC at a meeting of Upcountry Sustainability at 7 p.m. Monday. Maui News.

Some of the new shops set to open in The Outlets of Maui in Lahaina include high-end retailers Coach, Brooks Brothers and Calvin Klein. Maui News.

Kauai

A telephone scammer dialed up a wrong number earlier this month, reaching Kauai's police chief — who recorded the conversation and shared it with the public to raise awareness about how con artists operate. Star-Advertiser.

The Kaua‘i Police Department posted an online recording of a con artist who unknowingly attempted to scam Kaua‘i Police Chief Darryl Perry, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Kana‘iolowalu is coming to Kaua‘i in an effort to reunify Native Hawaiians. The Native Hawaiian Roll Commission is hosting an informational workshop from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and a commission meeting from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Saturday at the Kaua‘i Veteran’s Center in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Molokai

Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono today joined three fellow representatives in introducing a House resolution honoring Mother Marianne Cope of Molokai. Maui Now.

Hawaii teachers union unhappy with new contract, Native Hawaiian nominated federal judge, new poverty rate takes high cost of living into account, former UH AD Donovan finalist for Cal State job, Maui telescope to move quickly, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie meets with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, courtesy photo

A new federal calculation that takes into account Hawaii's high cost of living significantly boosts the state's poverty rate — from the 18th lowest in the nation to the seventh highest. Star-Advertiser.

A negotiating team for the state has given a 103-page contract offer to the Hawaii State Teachers Association as talks began Wednesday on a new contract for 2013-2015. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Education says a state negotiating team and the teachers union are resuming contract talks. Associated Press.

The state's new contract for teachers offers little hope. according to the teachers' union, which met with the state on Wednesday to resume negotiations. KHON2.

At Campbell High School, the signs are being painted and the T-shirts are being distributed for a teacher protest weeks in the making.KITV4.

Enrollment at public schools has increased slightly in all districts, except on Hawaii Island, which experienced a 1.6 decrease, according to data released Wednesday by the state Department of Education. West Hawaii Today.

The state’s official public school enrollment for the 2012-13 school year increased by more than 2,000 students. The total 183,251 enrollment at the state’s 254 DOE schools and 32 charter schools, translates to a total 1.1% increase. Maui Now.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Derrick Kahala Watson has been nominated by President Obama to serve as Hawaii’s next federal judge. Hawaii Reporter.

A federal attorney who graduated from Kamehameha Schools and spent most of his legal career on the mainland before returning to Hawaii five years ago was nominated Wednesday by President Barack Obama as a U.S. district judge. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing over the ballot shortage across Oahu on Election Day was almost pushed into December, past the deadline for candidates to challenge election results. KHON2.

It cost taxpayers at least $11.5 million to close state and county government offices, schools and the University of Hawaii on Election Day. Civil Beat.

Former University of Hawaii athletics director Jim Donovan has been named one of four finalists for the AD position at Cal State Fullerton, according to the school's website. Hawaii News Now.

Former University of Hawaii Athletic Director Jim Donovan has been named a finalist for the Athletic Director position at California State University, Fullerton. KHON2.

The president of the National Rifle Association visited the islands this week to advocate for development of shooting ranges and expansion of hunting opportunities. Civil Beat.

The value of seed crops in Hawaii managed a slight rise to a record this past season, according to a new government report, though the industry appears to have plateaued after rapid growth over much of the past decade. Star-Advertiser.

RealtyTrac reports that the number of foreclosures in Hawaii plummeted 62 percent in October when compared to the same month a year ago, as the effects of a state law forcing most foreclosures to go through the courts continues to push the state’s ranking down. Pacific Business News.

State news roundup for Nov. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Navy said Wednesday it is considering not basing 18 P-8A Poseidon jets at Kaneohe Bay to save $300 million by consolidating the aircraft in Washington state and Florida instead. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council Safety Chairman Nestor Garcia said he would entertain the idea of expanding a proposal to ban smoking at some of Hono­lulu's most popular beach facilities to include all city-run parks. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council considered a measure to ban smoking at certain beaches and parks on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Former Honolulu City Councilman Rod Tam has been fined $813.53 by the city Ethics Commission for misusing city funds to buy city employees "appreciation lunches" and for a Chinese dinner for foreign delegates. Star-Advertiser.

A human skull fragment turned up in an archaeological survey trench dug into a parking lot near Ward Avenue last weekend, marking the sixth time human remains have been found in the path of the $5.26 billion Honolulu rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

An old hand is returning to the helm of the Hawaii County Council. J Yoshimoto, a three-term councilman from Hilo, was selected chairman Sunday in a closed-door session. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. must take measures to cap emissions from three East Hawaii oil-fueled boilers by 2018 to reduce visibility impacts on the state’s two national parks, according to a rule rolled out Oct. 9 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Tribune-Herald.

Symposium highlights need for more local produce. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Public school enrollment in Maui County grew by 1.6 percent to more than 21,000 students this school year, according to the state Department of Education. Maui News.

The University of Hawaii plans to swiftly begin construction on a cutting-edge solar telescope atop Haleakala Volcano on Maui following a long-awaited ruling by the Hawaii Board of Land and Natural Resources that reaffirms approval of a critical permit. Civil Beat.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has reaffirmed its approval of a key permit for a controversial solar telescope to be built atop Haleakala, essentially giving the University of Hawaii the green light to proceed with the $300 million project. Maui News.

Kauai

It was standing room only at Hanalei School’s cafeteria Tuesday evening as more than 400 Kaua‘i residents turned out to hear a presentation by developers of the Hanalei Plantation Resort. Garden Island.

The owner of a transient vacation rental which was denied a non-conforming use permit will likely take his case to a higher court after a contested case didn’t go his way, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Kurt Matsumoto

Lanai

Hawaii hotel industry executive and Lanai native Kurt Matsumoto has been tapped to oversee all of Larry Ellison's business operations on the island of Lanai. Maui News.

Hawaii homeless up 11%, Honolulu City Council to mull beach smoking ban, same-sex marriage foes unseat 16-year lawmaker, tech CEO dies, aquarium fish-taking rules considered, Oprah Winfrey plans Maui organic farm, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu homeless (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Some 8,500 people statewide stayed in homeless shelters in the 2011-12 fiscal year, up 11 percent from 2009-10, and their ranks included more of the very young, more senior citizens and more people with at least some college experience, according to a statewide report on homelessness to be released today. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association is mobilizing its 13,000 members this week to publicly pressure the state to resolve the protracted dispute over their next two-year contract. Civil Beat.

Japan's economy is heading for recession and Hawaii's visitor industry are bracing for the fallout. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii tourism industry promoters are visiting California this week to draw more business and convention travelers to the islands.Associated Press.

The Public Land Development Corporation, formed to spur use of the state’s lands, and in the process create revenue for the state, has seemed to generate nothing but controversy since its mission and broad exemptions from county-level regulations began to be digested last summer. Tribune-Herald.

Veterans charged with non-violent crimes stemming from substance abuse or certain mental conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, will soon be a offered the option of completing a new Veterans Treatment Court, in lieu of sentencing. Civil Beat.

Senator Daniel Akaka has attended every Veteran’s Day ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific since he was first elected to Congress in 1976. Hawaii Public Radio.

Scientists track spike in Pacific quakes. Hawaii News Now.

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is an expanse of large and small plastic, that's now a constantly floating, ever growing ecosystem created by us. KITV4.

State roundup for November 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Smoking would be banned at five public beach parks under a bill Honolulu City Council member Stanley Chang will introduced to the Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is kicking off an $11 million project to modernize a public housing complex in Palolo neighborhood of Honolulu. Associated Press.

Election Day was terrible for Republicans from Niihau to New England, but in Central Oahu at least, two GOP candidates defeated Democrats to win new seats in the Hawaii House of Representatives. Civil Beat.

A proposed hotel and vacation rental project on Kauai's North Shore would ruin iconic views from Hana­lei Bay, a group of opponents argues. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A Kona attorney who transitioned from county legislative staff to the personal representation of County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong and County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi in a politically charged lawsuit says it’s not a conflict of interest for him to do so. West Hawaii Today.

A program to test space vehicles on Hawaii Island to prepare them for missions to Mars or the moon is coming of age with a new state investment of $2.34 million to develop and expand the project. Star-Advertiser.

Establishing a long-talked-about “white list,” creating a Kaohe Bay fish replenishment area and outlawing scuba spearfishing are just a few of the proposals West Hawaii residents can provide testimony on Dec. 5 in Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Guy Toyama, president and CEO of H2 Technologies Inc. and executive director of Friends of NELHA, the Natural Energy Laboratory Authority of Hawaii, has died. Pacific Business News.

West Hawaii businessman and sustainability and renewable energy advocate Guy Toyama died early Sunday morning at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu. He was 42. West Hawaii Today.

Friends and colleagues of entrepreneur Guy Toyama remembered him as a passionate advocate for Hawaii’s technology community with a knack for bringing people together. Star-Advertiser.


Maui

Oprah Winfrey is apparently getting into the organic food business, according to reports by the New York Post stemming from new online filings at the US Patent and Trademark Organization. Maui Now.

Landscape architect and planner Chris Hart, who made an unsuccessful bid for mayor in 2010 and formerly headed two Maui County departments, died early Monday. He was 71. Maui News.

A California-based investment firm is the new owner of a 4-year-old Maui shopping center lost by its developer to foreclosure last year. Star-Advertiser.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement has been filed for the Villages of Leiali’i Affordable Housing development in West Maui. Maui Now.

Maui County is on the cusp of modernizing windward Haleakala's mile-long, 1930s-era, sievelike Waikamoi flume. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i residents will be faced with two meetings today regarding two developments that may significantly alter the island’s natural beauty, while bringing many jobs to the community. One meeting concerns a proposed development on Hanalei Bay and Hanalei River ridge, and the other concerns a large subdivision across Kealia Beach, on the north end of Kapa‘a. Garden Island.

A brush fire in Hanapepe that forced firefighters to close a portion of Kaumuali‘i Highway burned 30 acres Monday evening before being contained. Garden Island.

Molokai

New Address System Helps Emergency Response. Molokai Dispatch.

Affordable Care Act to have minimal impact on Hawaii, school lunch prices spike, Kauai neighborhood cleared of toxic arsenic, dioxin in soil, Hawaii County Council mulls $31M bond issue, tsunami debris hits Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito courtesy photo

In compliance with the federal Affordable Care Act, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Monday he has selected HMSA's existing health care benefits package that will serve as the base line for all future insurance coverage offered in the state come 2014, when the law is fully implemented. Star-Advertiser.

A healthcare plan offered by the Hawaii Medical Service Association will be the template for all insurance plans offered to the public when President Obama’s universal coverage law begins in 2014, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced today. Hawaii Reporter.

A package of health insurance benefits created by the Hawaii Medical Service Association will serve as the state’s benchmark for the minimum amount of coverage health insurers in Hawaii must provide in 2014 and 2015 under the federal Affordable Care Act. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Aberceombie's June 28, 2012 statement on Affordable Care Act ruling.

The cost of school lunches in Hawaii has been rising, and one menu item in particular costs almost twice as much today as it did three years ago: hot dogs. Civil Beat.

It has been four months since the teachers union wrapped up a prohibited-practice case before the Hawaii Labor Relations Board — more than enough time, the union argues, for the board to decide whether the state violated members' rights when it imposed a contract in July 2011. The Hawaii State Teachers Association has asked the state Supreme Court to compel the labor board to issue a quick ruling in the case. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said state negotiators have met several times with a federal mediator to try and reach a contract agreement with Hawaii teachers. KITV4.

The Public Land Development Corp. will meet Oct. 11 in Honolulu to consider the approval of a strategic plan as well as some changes to its draft administrative rules. Big Island Now.

Hawai`i residents are worried about what the state’s new Public Land Development Corporation will mean for land across the state. The PLDC’s five member board has been granted increased powers to develop public property. Now board members are considering some changes to the rules, in an effort to ease residents’ concerns. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii will soon be the new site for a high-tech device that harnesses wave energy to create electricity. Hawaii News Now.

The next installment of senate hearings into the University of Hawaii Stevie Wonder concert fiasco take place Tuesday. KHON2.

Here's a list of the people invited to testify Tuesday, Oct. 2., before the State Senate Special Committee on Accountability about the University of Hawaii's Stevie Wonder concert fiasco. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority on Monday that issued a request for proposals for its 2013 Product Enrichment Program that supports community-based cultural and natural resource programs. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Most voters have long since made up their minds about the Honolulu rail project, and their opposition has put Ben Cayetano in good position to become the city's next mayor. Civil Beat.

Similarities in capaign ads  continue to raise questions about whether any campaign finance laws have been shirked — everyone involved denies this — the ads also highlight the influence of outside money in the Honolulu mayor's race. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii officials showed off $1.3 million worth of repairs to UH's College Hill mansion eight years ago and said that "nothing major" remained to be done. But today, $680,000 worth of "major" repairs are under way at the UH president's unoccupied mansion — and running two weeks behind schedule. Star-Advertiser.

The first phase of a $135 million upgrade to Hawaii’s largest public housing complex is nearing completion, and a group of units has become available for rent to low-income families. Star-Advertiser.

Bicycling on Oahu suffers from the chicken-and-the-egg problem. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Company has been working on the Ko'olau ridge for about a month now. They are trying to upgrade Oahu's power grid. KITV4.

The Honolulu Marathon is expected to generate record revenue for Hawaii this year with one of the biggest races in its 40-year history. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The county’s current mayor and his old boss-turned mayoral rival disagreed Monday night over whose administration could take credit for at least one big West Hawaii project. West Hawaii Today.

A proposed $16.8 million bond issue for a South Kona police station has ballooned to $31.4 million, thanks to amendments adding other projects offered by two Hilo council members originally opposed to the bond authorization. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission is looking for guidance on how it can tap into a $2.1 million Geothermal Asset Fund. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawa­uchi, who has endured a firestorm of criticism for her handing of the primary election, admits she has made errors but promises to press ahead and ensure the general election Nov. 6 goes smoothly. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

A federal judge ordered a $15,000 fine Monday for a Maui rancher who arranged the transportation of axis deer and mouflon rams between Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The next in a series of community meetings will be held tonight to discuss the county’s 2013-2014 budget. Maui Now.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its hired consultants will hold a public meeting in Lahaina on Tuesday to review a draft Wahikuli-Honokowai Watershed Management Plan. Associated Press.

Mokulele Airlines is expected to launch its daily service flights between Kahului and Hana airports today, with one-way fares starting at $59. Maui News.

Kauai

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Health have completed a Superfund Removal Program cleanup removing more than 814 tons of contaminated soil from residential and commercial properties in Kilauea, Kaua‘i, according to an EPA press release Monday. Garden Island.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state Health Department have completed removal of toxic soil at a Kilauea neighborhood on Kauai, the agencies announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

All of car dealer/developer James Pflueger’s co-defendants in a tax evasion case pending in federal court have  pleaded guilty. Hawaii Reporter.

The Kaua‘i County Council last week gave its stamp of approval for the Office of Prosecuting Attorney to apply, receive and expend $210,000 in federal grants for two programs. But decision on a request to apply for $35,000 in federal grants for a youth diversionary program was postponed for a week. Garden Island.

Molokai

Japanese Tsunami Debris Arrives on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

UH takes hot seat for Stevie Wonder blunder, Oracle racing coming to Lanai, Honolulu mayoral candidates debate, Hawaii SAT scores lag historically low national numbers, Hawaii County elections lawsuit can't find a judge, union settlement at Turtle Bay, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 all Hawaii News

University of Hawaii officials were grilled for more than six hours Monday in a hearing that sought answers on a Stevie Wonder fundraising concert that never was. Civil Beat.

Amid tough questions Monday night from state senators, Board of Regents Chairman Eric Martinson pledged greater transparency in tackling the fallout from the botched Stevie Wonder concert and said the body would play a role in making sure a similar debacle doesn't happen again. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood was grilled by more than two hours by a special State Senate committee Monday looking into the botched Stevie Wonder concert and its aftermath. Hawaii News Now.

UH President MRC Greenwood

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood said she felt political pressure to let then-athletic director Jim Donovan keep his job, but instead the school offered him a position that he had neither asked for, nor wanted, at an annual salary of $211,000 for three years. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii's Stevie Wonder concert fiasco was the product of a systematic breakdown and not the fault of a single university official, internal UH documents show. Hawaii News Now.

Presidents of public universities with top-tier intercollegiate football programs must walk a  “very difficult and treacherous pathway,” University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood said as she walked that pathway at a state Senate investigative committee hearing yesterday. Hawaii Reporter.

Senators finally called it a night at seven o'clock this evening, after listening to six hours of testimony regarding the Stevie Wonder concert scam, and the re-assignment of former UH Athletics Director Jim Donovan. KHON2.

Hawaii's SAT scores continue to lag behind the national average. Star-Advertiser.

David “Kawika” Crowley has a lot to say about Tulsi Gabbard, his opponent in Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional race, but it appears he won’t have a chance to say it to her face. Tribune-Herald.

State roundup for September 25. Associated Press.

Oahu
For part of a mayoral forum Monday, candidates Kirk Caldwell and Ben Caye­tano veered away from discussing the city's $5.26 billion rail project and talked about issues on the minds of the largely elderly audience. Star-Advertiser.

During a Monday forum sponsored by the Kokua Council, both candidates for Honolulu mayor said they would support the direct funding of senior services by the city. KITV4.

Honolulu Mayoral Candidates Kirk Caldwell and Ben Cayetano squared off in their first meeting since advancing from the primary election. KHON2.

When it comes to the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium, neither of Honolulu’s two mayoral candidates fully support the state’s plan to replace the dilapidated structure with a volleyball arena or concert venue. Civil Beat.

The Kaimana Beach Coalition released more emails this weekend that raises questions about the influence of a group that it is at odds with. KITV4.

The 16 candidates running to fill Tulsi Gabbard’s vacant Honolulu City Council seat range from an English professor to a Department of Transportation office assistant. Civil Beat.

The city of Honolulu will unveil draft proposals for transit-oriented development along the planned rail line in Kalihi and downtown Hono­lulu in public workshops today and Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A tentative settlement was reached Monday night on a new contract covering workers at Turtle Bay Resort. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu’s new online system for residential solar power system building permits started off with more than 300 permits issued during the first day alone. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu is one of the largest U.S. cities not to put fluoride in its water supply, but it's been nearly a decade since the issue was last up for public debate. Civil Beat.

Robertson Properties Group’s final environmental impact statement for its proposed mixed-use project for the site of the former Kamehameha Drive-in across from Pearlridge Center in Aiea has been accepted by Honolulu’s Department of Planning and Permitting. Pacific Business News.

The Navy's Blue Angels said aloha to Kaneohe in typical fashion Monday — with six jets flying wingtip to wingtip in a diamond pattern and trailing smoke as they screamed by in a low flyover just before 2:30 p.m. Star-Advertiser.

The National Weather Service posted a high-surf advisory throughout the day as waves with faces taller than 20 feet pounded the North Shore. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

It’s been little more than two weeks since two fired elections workers filed suit against County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi and Council Chairman Dominic Yagong. But it’s already clear no Hilo judge is going to hear the lawsuits. West Hawaii Today.

County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi said Monday that she has replaced Arlene Boteilho, made acting elections program administrator after the firing of Pat Nakamoto in January, with Elizabeth Lehua Iopa. Tribune-Herald.

South Kona’s recent spate of burglaries provided ample fodder for debate and marked a bright line between philosophies when the two candidates for prosecuting attorney faced off Friday at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

Previous scientific studies of Hawaii Island’s fresh water resources have shown some of what scientists thought they knew about water here was wrong. West Hawaii Today.

A North Hawaii bridge and intersection will get a makeover, under a Department of Transportation proposal that got the environmental go-ahead this week. West Hawaii Today.

Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School faculty, staff, parents and community members elected the school’s first governing board on Sept. 6. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Halting the controversial Kihei shopping centers that have come under scrutiny by the state Land Use Commission could also jeopardize 250 affordable housing units promised to Maui County five years ago. Maui News.

The Mahinahina Water Treatment facility in West Maui was up and running as of early Sunday morning after crews repaired a broken waterline sooner than expected. Maui News.

Kauai
Hundreds of fans are expected to turn out Saturday for "Kauai Remembers Blue Hawaii," a commemorative event sponsored by the Kauai Visitors Bureau and the County of Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Commercial parking lots across from Tunnels Beach are no longer in operation after the state found three land owners to be in violation of land use within the conservation district. Garden Island.

Following the buzz over the statewide Public Land Development Corporation’s series of heated meetings last month, the Kaua‘i County Council will discuss Wednesday a resolution introduced by its rookie council member, echoing what the public present at those meetings has overwhelmingly asked Gov. Neil Abercrombie throughout the state: Repeal Act 55. Garden Island.

Lanai

ORACLE Racing is proposing the use of Kaumalapau Harbor on the island of Lāna‘i as a temporary base of operations for sea trials, training, and related research to support  the development of a high-performance boat for competitive sailing events. Maui Now.

Health Department lags on testing Hawaii beaches, teachers union mulls lawsuit, Maui mayor meets with Lanai owner Ellison, Navy sinks ship off Kauai, annual barge visits Molokai, candidates report campaign finance, taxpayer subsidies spike for Honolulu rail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Department of Health didn't test dozens of beaches that it was supposed to in 2011 — including some of the state’s most popular. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard led all 2nd Congressional District candidates in fundraising in the second quarter of 2012, according to contribution reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. Star-Advertiser.

There's not a well-known Republican running for in the race for 2nd Congressional District, so Hawaii voters will likely be selecting a new U.S. representative in the Democratic primary on Aug. 11. Civil Beat.

For former Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Ed Case, being a moderate is not only a political philosophy, it is about effective leadership. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Teachers Association President Wil Okabe told teachers last week that the union is exploring legal means to enforce the January contract agreement the state considers off the table, according to internal documents. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie recently signed bills to combat cyberbullying, to prohibit adults from soliciting minors to electronically transmit nude images of minors and to allow out-of-state records to be subpoenaed in criminal cases. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines, the state's oldest airline said Sunday it will offer nonstop flights between Honolulu and Auckland, New Zealand, three times a week beginning March 13. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell received $511,404 in campaign donations from January through June, nearly $400,000 less than fellow challenger Ben Cayetano, according to campaign figures released today. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu city taxpayer subsidies for public transportation in Honolulu will increase by hundreds of millions of dollars to 17 percent of overall city tax collections after the new 20-mile rail system gets rolling, according to the new financial plan for rail. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu elevated rail project is splitting Hawai`i’s environmental community, with only one group coming out in support of the project. Hawaii Public Radio.

An $8 million gym and multi purpose building continues to sit empty in West Oahu. KHON2.

Honolulu is seeking applicants for projects to preserve and protect forests, beaches, coastal areas. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Less than half of Hawaii County Mayor Mayor Billy Kenoi’s $388,249 in campaign contributions come from the county he oversees. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent State Senator Gil Kahele raised more than 10 times the money that challenger Donald Ikeda did in the first six months of 2012, according to campaign spending reports released Thursday by the state Campaign Spending Commission. Tribune-Herald.

After being vetoed last week, two geothermal bills will get another chance Thursday as the Hawaii County Council votes on whether to override Mayor Billy Kenoi’s administrative dismissal. Tribune-Herald.

The former nursing director at Bay Clinic has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit, claiming she was fired because of her gender and marital status, and accusing the nonprofit health care organization of “defamation” and “negligent infliction of emotional distress.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui state Rep. George Fontaine last week lauded Gov. Neil Abercrombie for recently signing four cyber-crime bills into law. Maui News.

Maui County total business establishments decreased 2% from 4,422 establishments in 2005 to 4,332 in 2010. Maui Now.

The 2012 Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force will hold meetings on Maui and Molokai on concerns about the disproportionate number of Native Hawaiians who are in prison. Maui News.

Kauai

A live-fire exercise sank the former Navy ship Niagara Falls southwest of Kauai on Saturday, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

A Kaua‘i attorney was convicted of harassment Thursday after being accused of licking his client’s ear at his office last year. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a forum featuring the Kaua‘i County Council candidates on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kaua’i War Memorial Conventional Hall Exhibition Area. Garden Island.

Lanai

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa got some glimpses this week about what Lanai’s new owner, Oracle CEO Larry Ellison, wants to do with the Pineapple Isle when he met with Ellison's representatives and people from Castle & Cooke in a closed-door meeting. Pacific Business News.


Molokai

Molokai barge day courtesy Sen. J. Kalani English

The normally calm demeanor of the Kalaupapa settlement was replaced with hustle and bustle on Saturday morning as residents chatted excitedly about what many have dubbed “Christmas in July.” It marked the once-a-year barge that hauls in essential supplies like building materials, fuel, vehicles and other goods from Oahu to the isolated settlement. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii Supreme Court to get new justice, Democratic Party convention raises neutrality issues, taser suits denied, Oahu wind energy construction begins, meetings to address Kauai forest reserves, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Sometime in the next few weeks, Gov. Neil Abercrombie is expected to name a second associate justice, this one to replace James Duffy Jr., who retires Thursday. Civil Beat.

The executive board of the teachers union will meet this weekend to determine its next steps after teachers approved a contract proposal that they previously rejected and which the state says is no longer valid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii professional employer organizations plan to carry their fight against a recently-passed bill that would impose tighter restrictions and higher fees on their industry to the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations next week. Pacific Business News.

The Abercrombie administration, in a major policy shift, will award most of the $10 million in federal money the state receives this year to help cover medical costs for the poor at the state's public hospitals. Star-Advertiser.

Daniel Akaka

Delegates to Hawaii Democrats’ state convention Sunday (May 27) gave multiple ovations to U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka, 87, who retires in early 2013 after 36 years in the U.S. Congress. Civil Beat.

A cheerful and gentlemanly U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-HI, gave a classy farewell speech on Sunday as he addressed more than 600 Democrats at their convention for one final time before leaving the U.S. Senate. Hawaii Reporter.

Resolution Asks Top Democrats to Remain Neutral, But U.S. Sen. Inouye Promotes Two Congressional Candidates at Convention. Hawaii Reporter.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has transferred more than $875,000 since January 2011 to help keep the U.S. Senate under Democratic control. Star-Advertiser.

The theme for the Democratic Party of Hawaii's state convention this year, which concluded Sunday after three days at the Sheraton Waikiki, was "I am a Democrat because ..." Civil Beat.

As U.S. Senate Election Nears, Inouye Mocks Lingle’s 'Bipartisan' Claims. Hawaii Reporter.

Following the many jibes made at their party and candidates during Hawaii Democrats’ convention over the weekend, the Hawaii GOP has issued more press release responses. Civil Beat.

Rising wages may finally become part of Hawai`i’s gradually improving economy. The latest forecast shows increasing incomes for the next two-years. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Supreme Court has decided that it will not review the appropriateness of stun guns used by police on suspects in cases involving a Maui woman an a woman from Washington state. Associated Press.

Oahu

The contractor building the state's largest wind energy project on Oahu's North Shore has started heavy construction on the facility that will supply the electricity needs of an estimated 14,500 homes. Star-Advertiser.

A group is protesting recent developments at a Kunia farm.KHON2.

At the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, they honored those who've served in our military - past and present, living and dead. As F-22 fighter jets passed overhead with a missing man flyover, attendees reflected on both peace and preparedness. Hawaii News Now.

More than 40,000 residents and visitors packed into Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island to experience the annual Lantern Floating Ceremony. KITV4.

Stefanie Jefts said she grew up in Hawaii, but last year was the first time she participated in the Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony at Magic Island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A $1 million Waimea project, for which Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Friday he had released funding, won’t be going ahead after all. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo's Memorial Day commemoration featured an address by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who said that “until today” the governor had traditionally spoken on Memorial Day at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe, Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

Help is on the way for some 65 vacant units in Hilo’s Lanakila Homes Public Housing Complex on Kapio`lani Street. KPUA.

On Sunday, a group of about 20 veggy-loving volunteers gathered in downtown Hilo to give new life to land once sacrificed to development. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Meetings will be held Wednesday on Lanai and Thursday on Molokai to provide the opportunity for public input on the development of the 2012 to 2017 State Historic Preservation Plan. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa defended Maui on Friday as not only a great place for a vacation but also as a place to do serious business. Maui News.

Workers are needed to serve as precinct officials for primary and general elections this year, according to the Maui County Clerk's Office. Maui News.

Retiring principal: Maui High’s ‘great systems’ to continue. Maui News.

Kauai

State officials will be hosting two public informational meetings on the proposed restoration of wetland and associated coastal upland habitat within the Mana Plain Forest Reserve on Kaua‘i’s Westside. The meetings will be held tonight in Puhi and Wednesday evening in Kekaha. Garden Island.

A Hawaiian monk seal captured on Kaua‘i earlier this month after biting a fish hook was released back into the wild last week, according to state officials. A seal captured on O‘ahu around the same time as the Kaua‘i seal wasn’t so lucky, and was euthanized. Garden Island.

Molokai

A coming rate increase for Maui Electric Company (MECO) customers will mean a 3.16 percent increase for ratepayers in Maui County. That means a typical Molokai household using 400 kilowatt hours of electricity per month will pay an extra $5.25 on their monthly bill, for a total of about $193. Molokai Dispatch.