Navy holds first Hawaii hearing on missile test proposal, Honolulu police begin bodycam testing, Hagar selling Maui estate, Big Island bus ridership drops 30%, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block 1B interceptor missile is launched from the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) during a Missile Defense Agency and U.S. Navy test in the mid-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo)

Some seek to block Navy's bid to continue training in Hawaii waters. In a public meeting Monday evening at the Oahu Veterans Center, the community had a chance to weigh in on the Navy's Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Hawaii News Now.

Environmental and cultural concerns expressed over proposed US Navy training exercises. The US Navy officials hosted the first of several public meetings in Hawaii regarding its Environmental Impact Statement on testing and training operations in the waters off Hawaii and Southern California. KITV.

A rare joint exercise of three U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups — a combination wielding massive firepower — will occur in coming days in the Western Pacific as part of a pressure campaign on North Korea by the Trump administration. Star-Advertiser.

Nuclear shelter-in-place plan could keep parents, students separated for days. As nuclear rhetoric and missile tests continue from North Korea, Hawaii emergency officials say be ready to “Get inside, stay inside, and stay tuned.” KHON2.

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Two months after U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa announced her plans to run for governor, candidates looking to fill her seat in Congress are starting to emerge. Star-Advertiser.

Events to mark 100th anniversary of the death of Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Liliuokalani. Hundreds of churches around the state are expected to toll their bells 100 times at 8:30 a.m. — the time of day Liliuokalani died on Nov. 11, 1917. Star-Advertiser.

Ancient Hawaiian Tradition Threatened by Invasive Bug. The hala or pandanus tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and is characterized by its long, sharp and spiny leaves. Those trees are now being attacked by an invasive predator. And the cultural practitioners whose traditions depend on hala are feeling the impact. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Seventy-seven Honolulu police officers Monday began testing body-worn cameras in a 30-day pilot project, making the Honolulu Police Department the last in the state to use the cameras. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Officers Begin Testing Body Cameras. HPD has outfitted dozens of officers with the technology as part of a 30-day pilot program. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Police Department started testing body cameras Monday. KITV.

Criminal Case Against Kealohas Puts Brakes On Uncle’s Suit. The lawsuit filed by Gerard Puana will have to wait while the case against his niece and her husband continues, a judge rules. Civil Beat.

Defense attorneys in Kealoha corruption probe face heat over questionable practices. Legal experts say questions surrounding the attorneys for the former police chief and his deputy prosecutor wife are extremely troubling. Hawaii News Now.

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Waialua sunflower farm to hold open house. DuPont Pioneer, which recently merged with the Dow Chemical Co., held a media tour Monday at its 2,000-acre Waialua property, one of Hawaii’s largest farms. Star-Advertiser.

Waimanalo Tent-Dwellers: A Different Kind Of Homelessness. People living in a roadside encampment receive an unusual amount of community support, because many of them are longtime residents. Civil Beat.

Carbon monoxide poisoning linked to 2 Marco Polo deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu home prices creep higher. For single-family houses, October’s median sale price edged up 1.3 percent to $752,000 from $742,000 in the same month last year. Star-Advertiser.

Home sales on Oahu saw a “healthy uptick” in the number of sales in October, compared to the same month last year, as the median price of a single-family home and condominium nudged up slightly, according to a report by Honolulu-based real estate firm Locations LLC. Pacific Business News.

Ward Village condo sales aid developer’s profit. Howard Hughes Corp. earned $27 million from condominium sales at Ward Village in the third quarter, according to a financial report the company published Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Howard Hughes Corp. has sold nearly 90 percent of the 1,381 condominium units the developer is building at its Ward Village community in Honolulu and last month repaid a $195.3 million construction loan on the Waiea and Anaha towers there, the company said Monday in its third quarter earnings report. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

House Finance Committee checks in on state investments in West Hawaii. Members of the state House of Representatives Finance Committee were in town Monday to take a closer look at some of the projects they’ve recently funded throughout West Hawaii, including the major overhaul at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island bus ridership has dropped by almost a third over the past four years, mostly due to unreliability of an aging fleet, consultants said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Talks Vacation Rental Rules. Local and state lawmakers discussed possible regulations for the growing vacation rental industry during last week's county council committee meeting. Big Island Video News.

Demolition of Uncle Billy's Pagoda Hotel uncertain. A hotel sitting vacant in Hilo will remain that way for at least the near future. Hawaii News Now.

October home sales soar on Hawaii's Big Island. Home sales on Hawaii’s Big Island soared in October, with increases of more than 25 percent from a year ago for both single-family homes and condominiums, but the median price of a condo fell by more than 25 percent, according to data provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of Hawaii Island Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Cyanotech earns $475K in second quarter. Hawaii island microalgae producer Cyanotech Corp. more than quadrupled its fiscal second-quarter profit in large part through a $900,000 reduction in legal fees. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Victorino to run for mayor. Former Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino officially announced his intention on Monday to run for mayor in what is shaping up to be a competitive battle in 2018 to succeed Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

Kaanapali development met with resistance from Maui residents. Hundreds of people packed Lahaina Intermediate School Monday night to question the landowners and developers behind the Kaanapali Golf Courses Revitalization Project. Hawaii News Now.

Puunene Shopping Center filling up. Planet Fitness, Massage Envy and Ulta Beauty to open outlets on Maui. More retailers are flocking to the Puunene Shopping Center with pet store Petco opening its doors Monday and farm-to-table restaurant Fork & Salad slated to open early next year. Maui News.

Rocker Sammy Hagar is selling the 10-acre Maui estate he bought more than 20 years ago after searching for a place to relax in Hawaii following a world tour with Van Halen. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

KIUC issues request for qualifications for solar-hydro project on Kauai's west side. The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative last week issued a request for qualifications for its Puu Opae Energy Project on the Garden Isle's west side. Pacific Business News.

Kauai condo sales nearly double in October, median prices up by double digits. The number of condominiums sold on Kauai in October nearly doubled, when compared to the same month last year, while sales of single-family homes rose by more than 30 percent and median prices in both categories increased by double digits, according to data provided by Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Kids can earn money, recognition on the floor of the state House of Representatives, and a chance to mingle with legislators through a statewide contest running now through Jan. 31. Garden Island.

Whale migration down, Legislature passes $13.7B budget, Big Island council kills general excise tax hike, nurses can prescribe marijuana, rats in UH-Manoa dorms, lawsuit looming in Kauai pesticide case, Maui passes $659.5M budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Whale migration patterns, courtesy NOAA

The number of whales that made the annual migration to Hawaiian waters this past winter appears to be at its lowest level in five years, according to officials with the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers have passed the state's $13.7 billion budget for 2017, providing funding for affordable housing development, new classroom facilities and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Associated Press.

House and Senate lawmakers gave their final approval to a new, $13.7 billion budget for next year as well as bills to ease jail overcrowding, collect taxes from vacation rental operators, allow an industrial hemp pilot project and permit Alexander & Baldwin to continue using Maui stream water — but not without some spirited debate on the floors of the Senate and House on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

With the 2016 legislative session set to end Thursday, drama arose Tuesday in the Senate over taxing Airbnb tourist accommodations; and in the House a Republican lawmaker was nearly booted from the chamber over his stance on funding Hawaiian Home Lands. Civil Beat.

The Senate voted on a number of key House Bills yesterday. Hawaii Public Radio.

After years of dealing with sweltering classrooms where classroom teachers spritzed their students with water to keep them cool, the Hawaii Legislature has approved $100 million to cool 1,000 classrooms throughout the state. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige has already brought out his veto pen, spiking a measure that would let terminally ill patients try investigational drugs before the federal Food and Drug Administration approved them. Civil Beat.

A bill that would allow online alternative accommodations companies such as Airbnb to act as tax brokers on behalf of the state has passed the Hawaii Legislature and is on its way to Gov. David Ige’s desk for his signature. Pacific Business News.

Lawmakers passed a bill Tuesday allowing companies like Airbnb to collect and pay taxes on behalf of hosts who list their properties. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers approved a bill Tuesday that reforms many aspects of the state’s medical marijuana dispensary law but left enough on the table that medical marijuana advocates are likely to be back at the Capitol lobbying next session. If Gov. David Ige allows HB 2707 to go into law, advanced practice registered nurses, in addition to physicians, will be able to certify patients to use medical cannabis. Civil Beat.

Local transgender community leaders and supporters are calling on education officials to implement policies and staff training to ensure the safety and fair treatment of transgender students in Hawaii public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Some 17,000 public school students will be eligible to receive free meals at their schools regardless of their family’s ability to pay, under plans announced Tuesday by the state Department of Education to expand a pilot program that launched last fall. Star-Advertiser.

Are you getting what you pay for? State struggles to keep scales in check. KHON2.

A California-based labor contracting company that was ordered to pay millions in a discrimination and human trafficking lawsuit in Hawaii has been smacked in a similar case in Washington state. Star-Advertiser.

Bank of Hawaii said it expects to save $439,591 annually from 2,670 photovoltaic panels it has installed on its buildings throughout the state as part of its ongoing energy-saving programs. The company now produces about 30 percent of its statewide energy from PV systems. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Students at University of Hawaii-Manoa are ramping up efforts to end unsanitary living conditions in several residence halls. Photos provided to Hawaii News Now show holes in the ceiling, molded walls and dirty light fixtures at Hale Anuenue, a co-ed dormitory. A video shows a rat scurrying around Frear Hall in April.

It’s one of the fastest growing places on Oahu, but the Ewa area did not get all the money requested to help overcrowded schools. KHON2.

Honolulu police will begin strictly enforcing no parking rules on the bike lane side of the Lanikai loop beginning at 6 a.m. Thursday 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the city announced in a news release. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Facing a June 30 deadline to have an unpopular ordinance in place or lose the opportunity to do so, the County Council Finance Committee voted 8-1 Tuesday to postpone a bill indefinitely that would raise the general excise tax by one-half percent. West Hawaii Today.

More than 40 people, most supporting a ban on polystyrene foam food containers, on Tuesday came before the County Council Committee on Environmental Management. Choosing between a menu of two bills — one banning the so-called “Styrofoam” containers outright and one conducting an islandwide survey and educational campaign — most testifiers chose the former in almost three hours of testimony. West Hawaii Today.

Thirty Meter Telescope opponents say retired Hilo Circuit Judge Riki May Amano still should be disqualified as the next TMT contested case hearings officer after officially declaring her ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center membership. Tribune-Herald.

A state purchase of 8,000 acres at Kapua Bay may still get to move ahead sooner rather than later. In a rare move, the Senate Committee on Water, Land and Agriculture has agreed to resurrect a bill directing the Department of Land and Natural Resources to lay the groundwork for purchase of the pristine and historically significant stretch of South Kona makai lands. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiian cultural practitioner, preservationist and educator, revered kupuna, licensed practical nurse — Winifred Pele Hanoa was a force of nature, not unlike her namesake volcano goddess. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council's budget committee Monday hammered out a $659.5 million budget for full council approval - about $50 million less than Mayor Alan Arakawa's proposed budget for the next fiscal year - completing its part in the arduous rite of spring. Maui News.

Protests Don’t Overcome East Maui Water Diversion Bill. Legislators hand former Big Five sugar company Alexander & Baldwin water for its lands in Central Maui. Civil Beat.

Kauai

Earthjustice, a U.S. nonprofit environmental law firm, notified Hawaii’s Agribusiness Development Corporation on Tuesday that it will sue the agency for allegedly allowing pesticides and chemicals to contaminate a 40-mile-long drainage ditch system on the Mana Plain of Kauai’s west side.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s Agribusiness Development Corporation could be facing a lawsuit for allegedly illegally polluting the ocean on Kauai’s westside. That’s because several community organizations have discovered that the state organization didn’t renew their National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit last August. Garden Island.

A $4.1 million project to capture the methane gas coming out of the Kekaha landfill is in the works, thanks to a low-interest loan secured from the State Revolving Fund program, administered by the state’s Department of Health. Garden Island.

New rental car tax nets $5M, Honolulu cleaning streets of homeless, Maui lures tourists, movie-makers, geothermal pitched for Big Island, hydroelectric for Kauai, top Hawaii government and politics news for web and smartphone

Humpback whale NOAA courtesy photo

A confirmed appearance of a humpback whale in Honaunau Bay this week marked the anticipated return of the gentle giants to Hawaii, as well as a reminder for all ocean users to keep a safe distance. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s leaders say allowing more visitors from a growing group of ready to spend Chinese holds enormous economic potential for destinations like Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Higher Rental Car Fee Generates Extra $5 Million. Civil Beat.

State Budget Solutions in its analysis of state budget trends during the past decade – reports that Hawaii is number 47 out of all 50 states in the “total of the state expenditures in a given fiscal year encompassing all state funds.” Hawaii Reporter.

What Super Committee's Automatic Cuts Would Mean for Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The federal government spent more than $20 billion in Hawai‘i for the first time last year. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A bill being introduced by Honolulu City Council members is expected to make it easier for city officials to remove the property of the homeless and others from sidewalks and parks. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee deliberated today on a resolution asking for new bids to build rail-cars for the city’s mass transit system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu's unemployment rate rose to 5.5 percent in August from 5.4 percent in July, causing the city to lose ground in a ranking of metropolitan areas with the nation's lowest jobless rates, according to a report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

For many Kapahulu residents and lawmakers Wednesday night was a chance to see for the first time conceptual plans for a new office building on Charles street adjacent to Leonard's bakery. KHON2.

It is a bittersweet day for customers as another mom-and-pop restaurant closes its doors, but the closure wasn't due to the tough economy. KITV4.

City vehicles that were set to be scrapped by Oahu Transit Services have instead been converted into HPD paddy wagons in preparation for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in early November. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii's dismal voter turnout could be improved by allowing people to vote by mail, said South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford in introducing a resolution asking the state Legislature to set up a pilot program in Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island residents aggrieved with the Reapportionment Commission's decision to deny Hawaii Island a fourth Senate seat are making good on their threat to have the Hawaii Supreme Court decide the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Developing a public-private partnership to produce geothermal energy on Hawaii Island could lead to a $1.25 million annual public benefit, a geothermal development company stressed Wednesday evening in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's fastest-growing island is getting more police officers to patrol its swelling neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Army National Guard and Army Reserves are holding a blessing for their new joint complex in Hilo Thursday. Associated Press.

Maui

Maui County must fully disinfect all wastewater at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility under a consent order with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pacific Business News.

The new visitor industry marketing campaign is just beginning to reach the public, but in test views on the Mainland, the reaction has been just what was hoped for, Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau Executive Director Terryl Vencl told the Maui Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday. Maui News.

From producers and scriptwriters to casting consultants to contractors who rent pump trucks to empty the portapotties on location shoots, the nucleus of Maui's permanent film production business filled Kahului Community Center on Monday night. Maui News.

Kauai

Free Flow Power is preparing for its first round of community outreach meetings on its proposed hydroelectric projects for Garden Isle waterways on behalf of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Molokai

In what appears to be a clash of Hawaiian and western cultures, some Molokai residents are upset that boaters who come to the island as escorts for canoe and other races are catching fish and taking other seafood from coastal waters. Star-Advertiser.

More Hawaii hotel rooms full, appointed education board passed, Big Island bag ban bogs down, land chief confirmed, budget bills nixed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Volunteers counting humpback whales last month saw an average of five every 15 minutes from sites on Oahu and Kauai. Those on the Big Island saw an average of four. Associated Press.

More than 800 volunteers gathered data from the shores of Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island for Saturday’s annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count. Hawaii 24/7

William Aila Jr. was confirmed unanimously yesterday by the state Senate as director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, a vote of confidence in the former Waianae harbormaster's ability to manage a sprawling department that has struggled to protect the state's unique environment. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental groups are celebrating the confirmation of William Aila Jr. as the new Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii News Now.

The state House Finance Committee has moved nearly two dozen bills that would generate revenue or reduce benefit costs, an alternative blueprint to Gov. Neil Abercrombie's plan to help balance the state budget. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii lawmakers near the half-way point of the legislative session, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's major revenue-generating proposals have mostly flopped.Civil Beat.

Hawaii moved a step closer to taxing certain pension payments and eliminating deductions for state taxes Thursday, after first turning down a Republican-led effort to table the measure. Hawaii Reporter.

After the Senate unanimously approved a measure yesterday giving him the power to directly appoint Board of Education members, Gov. Neil Abercrombie called for people who can "help bring change" to public schools to apply. Star-Advertiser.

After Hawaii voters approved the change to the constitution, the BOE could be fully replaced as soon as the middle of this month as a bill to establish an appointed school board heads for the governor's signature. KHON2.

The state transportation department has begun a big beautification and resurfacing project that will improve Ala Moana Boulevard and Nimitz Highway from Waikiki to Fort Street in downtown Honolulu. KITV4.

U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka say Hawaii is due to receive a $250,000 grant to help local businesses cater to the 20,000 visitors expected to come to Honolulu for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Police Commission is finalizing its review of Louis Kealoha's first year as chief of police, after a closed-door discussion with him Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council bogged down on its bag ban bill Wednesday, after a minority-led move to schedule six public hearings effectively pushed a decision back until late November. West Hawaii Today.

Aina Koa Pono, the company planning on building a biofuel plant in Ka'u, is promising well-paying jobs, a more stable fuel supply and minimal environmental impacts once the project is completed. West Hawaii Today.

More and more homeless people are setting up tents on the sidewalks and in the park around the UH medical school in Kakaako. KITV4.

The Veterans Administration estimates there are more than 100-thousand former service members who are homeless on any given night in America. Hawaii Public Radio.

Developers would have to offer affordable homes to buyers and renters with varying incomes under a bill the County Council advanced by a unanimous vote Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

North Shore’s shave ice attractions have taken center stage in plans to redevelop the historically popular area. Hawaii Independent.

More than eight out of every 10 Hawaii hotel rooms were full during the week ending Feb. 26, and average room rates across the state were notably higher than during the same week in 2010, according to data compiled by Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

Nominees for the 2011 Charter Commission were grilled about their opinions on district voting and other issues Wednesday, but a vote to approve them was postponed. Maui News.

Kaua‘i’s keiki are now able to enjoy new playground equipment at Puhi and ‘Oma‘o county parks, a county press release announced Wednesday. Garden Island.

Creighton and Cathy Mattoon thought they were helping the City develop a plan for the North Shore.

Hawaii lawmakers gamble on revenue generators, Abercrombie names homeless czar, Senate suspends prayer, car sales up, more news

Photo courtesy DLNR

Wildlife biologists and volunteers surveyed Hawaii's native and migratory waterbirds this week. Associated Press.

Legalized gambling is back on the legislature's agenda as one way to attack the state budget deficit. KITV4.

A state lawmaker has unveiled legislation to study the pros and cons of Hawaii joining a multistate lottery. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State Senate is ending the practice of opening each day’s floor session with an invocation, defusing a possible lawsuit regarding the separation of church and state. Hawaii Reporter.

Charges were dismissed in Wahiawa district court Thursday against four men involved in controversial north shore shark tours.KITV4.


Stressing his commitment to end homelessness in Hawaii, Governor Neil Abercrombie today announced the appointment of Marc Alexander as the Governor’s Coordinator on Homelessness. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie yesterday appointed Marc Alexander, the former vicar general of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Honolulu, as his homeless coordinator, a sign the governor will reach out to the faith-based community as partners. Star-Advertiser.

The Rev. Marc Alexander has resigned his priestly ministry and has accepted a new job, according to Honolulu Bishop Larry Silva. Hawaii News Now.

The reports cards are in...and Hawaii's earning mixed grades for tobacco control policies. KHON2.

Hawaii's ethics code is too loose, some lawmakers say. So loose, that a politician can receive income from a firm or lobbyist doing business before the Legislature without disclosing the financial relationship. Civil Beat.

Members of the Pacific Alliance to Stop Slavery (PASS) attended the opening of the 2011 Hawaii Legislature, keen to support anti-human trafficking bills that are part of legislation to be debated this session. Hawaii Independent.

With more whales expected to migrate to Hawaii this season, experts anticipate more entanglements. Hawaii Public Radio.

The process of finding a new landfill on Oahu officially began today. KHON2.

A new online offering of campus crime reports aims to keep students at the University of Hawaii at Hilo informed and out of danger. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii's Board of Regents have extended President M.R.C. Greenwood's contract. Associated Press.

Pahala resident Gwen Sorensen wants police to ensure their dispatchers are properly trained to handle every type of emergency situation the island could possibly throw at them. West Hawaii Today.

Their airplanes aren't the only things with wings. Some say the pilots who fly them have wings as well. West Hawaii Today.

Seven families on Molokai are about to own their own houses for the first time. Molokai Dispatch.

Television reporter-turned state Department of Transportation spokeswoman Tammy Mori will return to the airwaves, rejoining KHON-TV Monday, Jan. 31. Star-Advertiser.

New vehicle registrations in Hawaii rose 3.1 percent in the fourth quarter of 2010 over the fourth quarter of 2009, according to the Hawaii Auto Outlook report released this morning. Star-Advertiser.

After the storms that passed through the Hawaiian Islands in the weeks before Christmas, most people have now heard of the "Pineapple Express" and the heavy rain and snowfall it caused in California. Star-Advertiser.

Legislative discord, TV blackout, mark new Hawaii session, Say retains speakership, surf's up, Eddie could go, woman in court for bludgeoning peacock, look out for tangled whale, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

The clerk of the state House of Representatives on Wednesday barred live television coverage of an afternoon session at which the speaker was elected after a two-month struggle among House Democrats. Associated Press.

State House Speaker Calvin Say yesterday overcame a leadership challenge that had divided majority Democrats for two months, but he agreed to give dissidents a greater share of leadership posts and committee chairmanships. Star-Advertiser.

State Senate president Shan Tsutsui set the stage for the 2011 Legislature, saying lawmakers will tackle the economy, education and energy self-sufficiency. Hawaii News Now.

The state House on Wednesday afternoon had a leader after a public dispute over who should be speaker. KITV4.

Rep. Calvin Say (District 20 – St. Louis Heights, Palolo Valley, Maunalani Heights, Wilhelmina Rise, Kaimuki) will remain as Speaker of the House for the Twenty-Sixth Legislature, which includes the 2011 and 2012 legislative sessions. Hawaii News Now.

For two and a half months, Calvin Say could not muster the required 26 votes to win another two-year term as speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives. Civil Beat.

The 26th State Legislature conducted its opening day festivities with music and song today. At the same time there was a cloud of uncertainty and tension in the lower House due to unsettled differences. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii House of Representatives today announced that Rep. Calvin Say (District 20 - D)will remain as Speaker of the House for the 26th Legislature, which includes the 2011 and 2012 legislative sessions.Hawaii Independent.

Governor Neil Abercrombie today appointed of Georgette “Jo” Jordon to represent House District 45.  Jordon fills the seat left vacant by Maile Shimabukuro who was appointed to the district’s State Senate seat. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa has been appointed to House committees that handle military and environmental policies. Associated Press.

A scientist from the University of Hawaii has helped discover 16 pairs of supermassive black holes in merging galaxies. Star-Advertiser.

The Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau could go. Star-Advertiser.

While some are planning for the possibility of damage from huge surf scheduled to arrive early Thursday morning, many more are looking forward to just seeing the beauty and power of these big waves. KITV4.

To help alleviate traffic congestion and protect public safety, the city and event sponsor will provide off-site parking and bus transportation if the Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau big wave surf contest is held soon at Waimea Bay. Hawaii News Now.

Dark now, but with 30 foot surf expected to pound the coast, the City is prepared at a moments notice to activate if necessary. KHON2.

Federal and state officials on Wednesday asked Hawaii boaters to help them search for an entangled humpback whale that's dragging about 60-to-80 feet of line and a buoy. Associated Press.

The road to the summit of Haleakala reopened at 11 a.m. Wednesday after being closed earlier because of snow, slush and ice on the roadway, a park official said. Maui News.

Hawaii programs that assist the homeless are receiving $10.2 million from the U.S. Department Housing and Urban Development. Pacific Business News

With two new interventional cardiologists on staff, Maui Memorial Medical Center recorded its first angioplasty just three days into the new year. Maui News.

A South Kohala developer is still in violation of a Land Use Commission decision, state planning officials say. West Hawaii Today.

A Makaha Valley Towers condominium owner who used a baseball bat to bludgeon a peacock to death should not be on trial because peafowl are pests and the state doesn't require a permit to kill them, her attorney told jurors yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

KITV 4 News has learned an elementary school secretary was arrested in a theft case Wednesday, the same day a Kapolei man was sentenced after he admitted to stealing thousands of dollars from a Little League baseball team. KITV4.

Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira said he'll consult with county Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida before taking any action concerning a Pahala fire captain convicted of a 2005 hit-and-run death. Tribune-Herald.

Opponents to Honolulu’s rail transit project say the city’s clearing of a key Federal Transit Administration hurdle won’t stop them from trying to derail the program. Hawaii Reporter.

With Honolulu's Rail Transit Project cleared for construction, job-seekers lined up today hoping to score one of the thousands of rail-related jobs. KHON2.

Residents have been turned away at the propane pump in recent weeks, left without needed fuel for stoves and other home appliances. Garden Island.

An army has to train if it wants to avoid unnecessary casualties. And American troops stationed in Hawai'i face a narrowing set of options for training. Kaho'olawe has been returned, much the worse for wear, to the native Hawaiians. Big Island Weekly.

Homeowner watches as lava overtakes house. Star-Advertiser.

Longtime Molokai rancher James “Uncle Jimmy” Duvauchelle has been managing land on Molokai’s west end for 40-plus years – seeing the island turn from green to brown and the economy dwindle.. Molokai Dispatch.

A 32-year-old Kealakehe Intermediate School teacher, recently charged with abuse and unlawful imprisonment of a child, has been put on indefinite "department directed leave," school officials said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The Kaua‘i Fire Department is inviting public comment on the relocation of the Kekaha lifeguard tower. Garden Island.

If you haven’t noticed, we’re in a full-tilt transformation away from conventional cars. Honolulu Weekly.

Oahu awash in garbage, MLK honored, whale watchers wanted, state bar rethinks rules, wind, geothermal, hydroelectric power slated, more Hawaii news

The humpback whale sanctuary is looking for volunteers to help it count whales on Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii islands. Associated Press.

Federal scientists say more humpback whales means more collisions between Hawai‘i boaters and the giant endangered species. Associated Press.

Medical waste and other trash continued to soil Leeward Coast beaches yesterday, washing ashore in spots farther down the shore from where the debris was initially found. Star-Advertiser.

Twelve members of the mayor’s Landfill Site Selection Committee will meet this Thursday at Honolulu Hale to begin the process of recommending an alternative site to Waimanalo Gulch Landfill, which is scheduled to stop accepting solid municipal waste by July 31, 2012. KHON2.

It's monthly bulky item pickup time but don't expect some of these items to go anywhere anytime soon -- the temporary landfill closure has led to refuse rejects.KHON2.

Leeward beaches near the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill, including the lagoons at Ko Olina, remain closed Monday. Test results from ocean water samples taken Thursday show "very high" bacteria levels. Hawaii News Now.

The temporary closure of the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill in Nanakuli has resulted in a bulky trash pile up in some Oahu neighborhoods. KITV4.

The heavy rain is gone but all that water left behind is producing another problem more mosquitoes.  And now there are fewer state workers to help control the pests. Hawaii News Now.

In the wake of the controversy over its negative rating of chief justice nominee Katherine Leonard, the Hawaii State Bar Association has amended its rules to allow for the disclosure of the reasons for its "qualified" or "unqualified" findings for judicial nominees. Star-Advertiser.

Since trying "natural farming" last year under the guidance of a folksy South Korean master farmer known as Han Kyu Cho, Delos Reyes said production on his 10-acre plot has doubled — and demand is growing even faster. Star-Advertiser.

Plans by the Castle and Cooke development company to build a 400 MW industrial wind power plant on Lanai has resulted in heated contention with the island’s residents. Hawaii Independent.

Citing the risk of $200 per barrel oil by 2013, a new report to the Hawaii Legislature by the Geothermal Working Group warns of the urgency of reducing Hawaii’s dependency on imported oil and the potential of geothermal energy to play an expanded role in the state’s energy repertoire. Pacific Business News

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative is proposing the state's first significant expansion of hydroelectric power generation in decades with a series of planned projects that could provide nearly 20 percent of the island's power needs. Star-Advertiser

Hawaii is still by far the most diverse state in the country, but recent trends show the islands inching toward the U.S. mainland in race, citizenship and language. Civil Beat.

Marching in the Martin Luther King Jr. parade in Waikiki yesterday with her family, Latashia Ingram said she wanted her 8-year-old son to appreciate King's struggle and sacrifice for equality and justice. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of people honored the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday on the streets of Waikiki. KITV4.

A pivotal figure in the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. challenged Americans to come together for the better of the country, a message that rang true Sunday for West Hawaii residents and visitors. West Hawaii Today.

The owner of a cattle-ranching company caused a public outcry more than a year ago after revealing plans to fence off a popular access to Lepe‘uli, also known as Larsen’s Beach, a pristine strip of sand on the North Shore. Garden Island.

Foreign Pest Saves The Wiliwili Tree. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senate President Shan Tsutsui said his new leadership role should not prohibit him from advocating for his constituency on Maui. Maui News.

Members of Hawaii Island's all-Democratic legislative delegation will report to work Wednesday hoping to find money to expand schools and parks, help farmers and ensure food safety. Tribune-Herald.

News that a lawsuit alleging the state failed to support beneficiaries of the Hawaiian Homes Act is revived came too late for one of the plaintiffs. Tribune-Herald.

A council that advices the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on coral reefs in the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument is due to meet this week. Associated Press.

Sirius XM may start providing its subscription radio service in Hawaii following a milestone Federal Communications Commission approval last month. Hawaii Reporter.

Obama, 'Lost' star, promote Hawaii Democrats, humpback whales return, affordable housing coming to Maui, Hawaii park fees begin, Kahuku wind farm moving forward, more news from the islands

President Obama appears in new television advertisements for U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie for governor and state Senate President Colleen Hanabusa for U.S. Congress as local Democrats try to seize on the Hawaii-born president's popularity in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama is supporting Democratic gubernatorial nominee Neil Abercrombie in a new TV ad. KHON2.

Actor Daniel Day Kim plays Chin Ho Kelly on the blockbuster remake of Hawaii 5-0, but the former Pennsylvania native turned Hawaii resident, has another role in the islands – advocating for the Democratic Party this election. Hawaii Reporter.

There are new attacks and counter-attacks in the race for Governor. Hawaii News Now.

Governor candidate Duke Aiona on Wednesday said Neil Abercrombie's campaign is using social networking to spread false information about his relationship with a controversial religious group. KITV4.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, the Republican candidate for governor, claimed yesterday that former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, his Democratic opponent, has engaged in negative campaigning by spreading a video that links him to an international evangelical network with controversial views about homosexuality. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona charged Wednesday that a senior member of the Neil Abercrombie campaign has brought "an extreme level of negative campaigning" into the governor election. Civil Beat.

Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou and Democrat Colleen Hanabusa are battling over Hawaii's 1st Congressional District, but there's a third person at work in the Nov. 2 general election: Ed Case. Associated Press.

Voters will be asked to decide on an appointed school board and forming a transit authority for the rail but there are plenty of other important questions on this ballot that could trip up voters if they don't do some research. Hawaii News Now.

Retaining the counties' portion of the Transient Accommodations Tax, bringing jobs back to the Big Island and improving the island's health care system were some of the offers candidates seeking West Hawaii's two seats in the state House of Representatives. West Hawaii Today.

The final Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce political forum Tuesday evening at the War Memorial Convention Hall was far removed from the tense discussions of similar past events — at least at the beginning. Garden Island.

Rep. John Mizuno wants to increase the possible penalty for endangering the welfare of a minor after a Kalihi man allegedly left his eleven month old baby home alone for several hours Tuesday evening. KHON2.

The Pacific Whale Foundation says the first humpback whale of the season has been spotted off the west coast of Maui. Associated Press.

The open wounds are visible several miles from the island -- strips of red earth cut by explosives, grazing animals, wind and rain, bleeding an estimated 2 millions tons of soil a year into the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Volunteers are lining up for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.There's no room service. Or housekeeping. The boat over is no luxury liner. Still, there's a two year waiting list to get on the tiny island of Kahoolawe. Hawaii News Now.

The state has begun charging visitors and commercial tour vehicles to park at Iao Valley State Monument. Maui News.

A Honolulu Liquor Commission investigator is suing the city, saying he suffered discrimination and retaliation when Dewey Kim was the commission administrator. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu City Deputy Prosecutor Kevin Takata, ousted when new Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro took office this month, was not out of work for long. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui County Council members voted 6-2 late Tuesday to approve the Kula Ridge project that promises to bring 59 affordable housing units for senior citizens and single families. Maui News.

The wind farm project in Kahuku reached a milestone over the weekend when the final turbine was erected, company officials said. KITV4.

The overarching goal of the North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan is to keep the region’s population—1.7 percent of the Oahu’s total—consistent through the year 2025. Hawaii Independent.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is considering re-designating Mo`omomi-Anahaki as a “Special District,” which would protect resources, provide stewardship opportunities and preserve the unique sense of place. Molokai Dispatch.

Action on a proposed bill to impose impact fees on new developments to provide for infrastructure was postponed Tuesday by the County Council's Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

It's make or break-even in the Hawaii auto industry. KHON2.

Hawaii County Council members narrowly support borrowing $56 million to build parks, roads and other infrastructure, but don't want the money tied to specific projects. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed ordinance authorizing the county to issue up to $56 million in general obligation bonds for various Big Island public improvement projects is moving on to the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

On Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the North Kohala community will come together to make a human chain over a mile long to move the collection of 15,000 books and other materials, by hand, from the old Bond Memorial Public Library to the newly constructed North Kohala Public Library, one and a third miles away. Big Island Weekly.

Whale watchers needed, governor, educators still at odds, fishermen protest, more Hawaii news

Anyone who wants to help in this year's whale count can sign up now.

Federal wildlife officials were reassessing their work to try to disentangle a humpback whale off West Maui on Christmas Day, and whale expert Ed Lyman said Sunday that he believes the distressed whale will be able to survive its injuries.

Gov. Linda Lingle yesterday shot down an agreement between the teachers union and education officials to end most furlough days this school year, saying it was not "fiscally responsible."

If the University of Hawaii does not get pay concessions from the faculty union, layoffs and cuts in student financial aid are "potentially on the table," UH President M.R.C. Greenwood said.

The University announced 3,500 professors will see a 6.67 pay cut over the next year and a half. On average the University said professors make $84,000 a year. The cut equates to $5,600 less a year.

Ringing fishing bells and holding protest signs, a coalition of more than 90 boaters and fishers held a demonstration at the state Capitol yesterday against proposed state rules that they say would restrict their recreation and lifestyle.

The president wrapped up about five hours of golf at the Luana Hills Country Club Monday without finishing the full 18 holes.

Good riddance to 2009, a lost year.

"Lucky you live Hawaii."

The long-awaited completed revision of the Integrated Solid Waste Management Plan, which has as its goal a minimum of 35 percent diversion from the landfill and productive uses of even non-recyclable trash, was recently presented to the Kaua‘i County Council.

Air travel smooth, smoking down, whale finally freed, First Family vacations, unions drag feet, more news

Despite increased security at airports following two scares in Detroit, many passengers arriving in Honolulu Sunday said they did not experience any unusual travel delays.

The quarantine station at Honolulu Airport is seeing a lot of international passengers arriving with swine flu but no illnesses requiring quarantine or isolation, say Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials.

A series of tobacco tax hikes are helping to curtail local sales of cigarettes and cigars.

Businesses in Kailua said they have seen a surge in customer traffic since the first family arrived for the holidays.

It seems the teachers union, along with blue-collar workers, are dragging their feet in hopes that they can make it to the finish line called the legislative session and make their case before lawmakers that they should not have to take a hit.

A whale entangled in fishing gear off of Maui was freed on Christmas Day by rescuers led by the Hawaiian Islands Entanglement Response Team.

Whale expert Ed Lyman of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary said he believed the team freed the whale of most or all of the material it was dragging, which included an anchor; but that he could not be sure because he didn't get a chance to look under the animal before it swam away.

The Christmas shopping season was a mixed bag for Hilo merchants, some of whom did strong sales, while others are hoping for better business in 2010.

As the number of homes in foreclosure grows larger and larger, so do the problems caused by an increasing number of homes sitting vacant, ownerless and uncared for in neighborhoods around Maui.

Living in a grass hut, tepee or igloo may not be ideal for most people, but these structures provide the fundamental concepts of sustainable living that have been around “a lot longer than we have,” said architect and sustainability consultant Peter Arsenault.