Hawaii loses congressional clout, plans Inouye's funeral, Ethics Commission wants tighter laws, Ritz-Carlton coming to Waikiki, Kauai seeks balanced budget, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii's leading ladies: Gabbard, Hanabusa, Hirono (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Mazie Hirono, who will be sworn in to the Senate on Jan. 3, must immediately begin to fill the void left by Hawaii's loss of 72 years of seniority — Inouye's 50 years and Akaka's 22 years — and lead a congressional delegation that will be among the least experienced in Washington. Star-Advertiser.

Was Ed Case Right About Senate Transition? Civil Beat.

First District of Hawaii Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa submitted her application papers Wednesday to the Democratic Party of Hawaii to fill the seat of the late Sen. Daniel Inouye, who died Monday in a military hospital in Bethesda, Md. Pacific Business News.

Even without a letter from U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye stating his "last wish," U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa probably would be the most likely and best qualified candidate to replace the senator, political analysts say. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii loses economic engine with Inouye’s passing. Associated Press.

Careful planning and preparation is underway for Senator Daniel Inouye's memorial service Sunday at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. KHON2.

As Hawaii and the nation mourn the loss of Sen. Daniel Inouye, who passed away Monday at the age of 88, he is being memorialized with high honors that are reserved for presidents and eminent historical figures. Hawaii News Now.

'Go For Broke' veterans of the 442nd remember Inouye. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Ethics Commission wants to widen its net next legislative session to ensure the state conducts its business above-board. Civil Beat.

Oahu

There will be no resolution on where to put Oahu’s trash this year. The fight to close the Waimanalo Gulch landfill has dragged on for a decade, through three administrations, and will now become mayor-elect Kirk Caldwell’s problem. Civil Beat.

A federal judge has scheduled a hearing in March on the request by members of De-Occupy Honolulu for an injunction to block the city from seizing their property from city sidewalks. Star-Advertiser.

Ritz-Carlton has hooked up with a developer to manage a planned Waikiki condominium-hotel tower that will give the luxury hotel operator its first presence on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii received a long-awaited $1.55 billion check from the U.S. Department of Transportation Wednesday, a major milestone in paying for a commuter rail line that is the largest public works project in Hawaii history meant to relieve some of the vexing congestion along the H-1 freeway. Star-Advertiser.

Galbraith Estate: The Back-Story. Hawaii Public Radio.

ICE agents busted a Chinatown retail store on Hotel and Maunakea Street on Tuesday, dragging out box after box of fake versions of more than a dozen well-known brands. KITV4.

Hawaii

The final leg of Saddle Road, linking the cross-island route from Hilo to the Waikoloa resorts, is one of several Hawaii Island projects that could find its funding in jeopardy following the death Monday of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County now owns the northern portion of the Mamalahoa bypass through the Hokulia development — or will, once the Bureau of Conveyances records the transaction. West Hawaii Today.

Clayton Honma is now the Parks and Recreation director. West Hawaii Today.

This week, Verizon Wireless announced the availability of its HomeFusion Broadband service in Hawaii. Initially launched in select locations around the country in March, the service is tailor-made for residential customers who can’t access cable, DSL and other “hard line” Internet sources, said Ken Watts, district manager for Verizon Wireless retail. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's request for state lawmakers to budget $130 million for construction of a Kihei high school stands apart as the administration's largest single capital project in its proposed biennium budget, said Kalbert Young, director of the state Department of Budget and Finance. Maui News.

Just in time for the busy holiday travel season, a $3.2 million expansion of Kahului Airport's security screening checkpoints was dedicated Tuesday, with the project aimed at alleviating long lines while assisting security officials check passengers. Maui News.

Kauai
County General Funds revenues have dropped four years in a row, while expenditures keep climbing, according to an independent audit presented to the Kaua‘i County Council Tuesday morning. Garden Island.

The lives of everyday folks on the Garden Island come shining through in a new collection called Kaua’i Stories.  HPR’s Noe Tanigawa offers this visit with the book’s editor, Pamela Varma Brown. Hawaii Public Radio.

Obama prepares for Hawaii vacation, inauguration, Inouye to lie in state in U.S. and state Capitol, state Democrats to meet on successor, transportation secretary signs off on $1.55B rail funding, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kamehameha Schools band (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Two Hawaii school bands will participate in President Barack Obama's second inauguration Jan. 21 in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Law enforcement and security agencies on Oahu are planning for the arrival of President Barack Obama and his family in Kailua this weekend, although federal fiscal negotiations may delay the start of his annual vacation in his birth state. Star-Advertiser.

The White House has not said whether President Barack Obama, who has delayed a planned vacation on Oahu to continue negotiations on the fiscal cliff, will attend a Hawaii memorial service for U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye this weekend, but several federal agencies have issued warnings about security zones being set up in the air and in the ocean near Kailua. Pacific Business News.

Memorial services will be held in Washington D.C. and Hawaii for the late Senator Daniel Inouye. Hawaii News Now.

The body of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol, an honor requiring approval from both chambers of Congress and bestowed previously to only 31 Americans. Star-Advertiser.

Filling in for U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye won’t be easy, but depending on when a replacement is named that person could have an inside track on garnering national influence for Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The death of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii leaves open a seat in the Senate to be filled by a Democrat, with U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa the immediate front-runner thanks to Inouye’s wishes. Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye's heartfelt request on who should succeed him will hang over Hawaii Democrats as they meet next week to choose three nominees for his replacement.Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercerombie has requested the Democratic Party of Hawai’i provide him with a list of 3 nominees to pick from to fill the vacant seat left by Senator Daniel Inouye who passed away Monday. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Democratic Party State Central Committee has notified members it will meet Friday December 28 and by the end of that day they will have narrowed the list of Senate candidates to three names. Hawaii News Now.

The process of picking a successor to fill the remainder of Senator Dan Inouye's term has begun and political analysts have a good idea of whose in the running. KHON2.

Isles face own fiscal cliff as many expect sizable drop-off in federal funds. Star-Advertiser.

Lesson From Alaska: Loss of Inouye Won't Be as Bad as We Thought. Civil Beat.

The state Elections Commission knows it needs to take action after dozens of polling places ran short on ballots during the Nov. 6 general election. But the commission isn't sure yet who to hold accountable or for what exactly. Civil Beat.

"We are trying our very best to get this thing under control and get a grasp on it," said Commissioner Danny Young, who is part of a subcommittee investigating what led to a massive ballot shortage during November's general election. KITV4.

State roundup for December 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood today participated in a ceremony to sign an agreement to provide $1.55 billion to the City and County of Honolulu on the island of Oahu to build Hawaii's first-ever rail transit system. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council’s finance committee postponed a resolution to create a task force to consider possible changes to the county’s property tax code. West Hawaii Today.

A report by the International Association of Assessing Officers takes Hawaii County to task for insufficient internal controls, oversight and cross-checking of property assessments, issues that could lead to inequities in how much taxes property owners are paying. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Capitalizing on some of Maui's busiest months for tourism, Hawaiian Airlines will offer for the first time twice-daily nonstop service between Los Angeles International and Kahului airports during the summer. Maui News.

A new security screening checkpoint was dedicated today at Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Thanks to several years of advocating by community groups, Maui County is moving ahead with $2.5 million worth of improvements for a Maalaea road that has suffered extensive flood damage from heavy rain events in recent years. Maui News.

Kauai

Year after year, the county gives a new timeline to fix the eroding Pono Kai seawall in Kapa‘a, but the project never takes off. The Moanakai Road seawall, just south of Pono Kai, has a similar history. Garden Island.

The Aloha State mourns death of U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, through the eyes of all of Hawaii's media

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Daniel Ken Inouye, a Hawaii icon who lived a life of remarkable service to his country that included sacrificing his right arm in combat during World War II and representing the islands with distinction for nearly 50 years in the U.S. Senate, died Monday. He was 88. Star-Advertiser.

Senator Daniel Inouye through Associated Press' lens. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s senior senator, Daniel Inouye, died Monday from respiratory complications. He was 88. Pacific Business News.

With the death Monday of Hawaii's senior U.S. senator, Daniel K. Inouye, the responsibility to replace him falls to the man who served with him for 20 years in the U.S. Congress. Civil Beat.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye urged Gov. Neil Abercrombie to appoint U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa as his successor, according to Inouye's spokesman. Star-Advertiser.

For longer than Hawaii has been a state, Daniel Inouye has served the islands, but Monday Senator Inouye died from respiratory complications. KITV4.

U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, one of the nation’s most influential and powerful leaders, died Monday from respiratory complications while at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Civil Beat.

He's been the leader of the Democratic party in Hawaii for decades. He was third in line of presidential succession. KHON2.

Daniel Inouye wanted Hawaii Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa to succeed him in the U.S. Senate, according to a letter sent to Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Pacific Business News.

Before he died, Sen. Daniel Inouye asked that U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa replace him in office, Inouye's office said. Hawaii Reporter.

Quotes on the death of Hawaii U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, who died Monday in a Washington-area hospital from respiratory complications. He was 88. Associated Press.

Daniel Inouye, a decorated and inspirational war hero who later became the highest-ranking Asian American politician in United States history by serving as the President pro tempore of the Senate and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, died Monday in Washington. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Dan Inouye left a legacy that likely will go unparalleled in the state’s history, an emotional Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Befitting his significance to his state and his country, statements on the passing of Daniel K. Inouye have been passionate and heartfelt. Civil Beat.

Tributes to Hawaii's senior senator -- Daniel. K. Inouye -- came from the White House and the U.S. Senate floor, and from the state he represented for more than 50 years in Congress. Associated Press.

What Inouye’s passing means for Hawaii. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii's Senior Senator, Daniel K. Inouye, died Monday, December 17, at the age of 88 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after suffering respiratory complications. Hawaii Reporter.

It won’t be easy to fill Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye’s shoes, but someone will have to fill his seat. West Hawaii Today.

Everyone that KHON2 talked to said Sen. Daniel Inouye is irreplaceable. But the Hawaii Democratic Party and the governor must appoint someone and that could happen within a month. KHON2.

With the passing of Hawaii's longest serving U.S. Senator, local and national politicians faced the task of filling the massive void left by one of the longest serving Senators in U.S. history. KITV4.

Hawai’i residents lost their senior U-S Senator today … reportedly due to respiratory complications. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sen. Daniel K. Inouye has died. Hawaii 24/7.

Daniel Ken Inouye, the grandson of Japanese immigrants, sacrificed his right arm for his country in combat during World War II and devoted much of his life as an unwavering voice for Hawaii in the U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

On Dec. 7, 1941, high school senior Daniel Inouye knew he and other Japanese-Americans would face trouble when he saw Japanese dive bombers, torpedo planes and fighters on their way to bomb Pearl Harbor and other Oahu military bases. Associated Press.

The loss of Sen. Daniel Inouye as Hawaii's main benefactor in Congress will hurt the state's effort to attract federal dollars that are a significant part of the local economy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii business leaders praise U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, who died Monday at the age of 88: Pacific Business News.

Despite his busy schedule on Capitol Hill, Senator Daniel Inouye found time to keep in touch with his childhood pals. His former classmates shared fond memories of their famous friend. Hawaii News Now.

News of Sen. Daniel Inouye’s death rippled across the Big Island on Monday, prompting political leaders to solemnly reflect on the man they considered a mentor. Tribune-Herald.

Practicing Jews in Kona have a special place in their hearts for Dan Inouye. Star-Advertiser.

Maui County politicians, residents and community leaders said longtime Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye was a "tremendous asset" for the state and helped drive economic and scientific ventures on the Valley Isle. Maui News.

Condolences have been pouring in from congressional colleagues as they learned of the passing of US Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii today. Maui Now.

“Aloha,” said U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawai‘i, Monday. And then he was gone forever. Garden Island.

Inouye hospitalized indefinitely, 700 civil unions statewide, Legislature may consider marijuana legalization, PCBs in Kauai water, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Inouye at 2010 Hawaii bus blessing (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye is fighting respiratory complications and will remain hospitalized indefinitely, his staff said Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Daniel Inouye remains in hospitalized in a Washington-area hospital on Sunday evening. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye remained hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland on Sunday with respiratory complications with no indication as to when he would be released, as doctors worked to stabilize his supplemental oxygen requirements, his spokesman said. Pacific Business News.

In its first year recognizing civil unions, Hawaii has issued more than 700 licenses to couples. Tribune-Herald.

Legislature Might Amend Hawaii Marijuana Laws. Civil Beat.

Tourism industry experts are forecasting a sunny winter season in Hawaii, thanks to an expected harsh winter on the Mainland and increased air lift into the Aloha State. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii's unemployment rate is just 5.5 percent, lower than its been since the recession and far lower than the national average of 7.9 percent. Civil Beat.

State roundup for December 17. Associated Press.

Oahu
The 80 or so businesses left at the old Kapalama Military Reservation at Hono­lulu Harbor have been given an early 2014 deadline to vacate as the state proceeds with plans for a $250 million, 90-acre shipping container terminal to handle Hawaii's growing import needs. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency medical services will return to Ewa, as the new sale of an old Oahu hospital is announced. KITV4.

Some coastal residents of Hauula are increasingly fed up with chronic flooding trouble they say has been made worse by a drainage pipe valve installed by the city. Star-Advertiser.

UH Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple has announced the appointment of Ben Jay as the new Athletics Director. President M.R.C. Greenwood joins him in congratulating Mr. Jay. She did meet with Mr. Jay during his visit and is very pleased with his selection. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources plans to use heavy sandbags to stabilize a Waikiki beach groin this week. Associated Press

Hawaii

A statewide Civil Defense siren modernization program could bring as many as 15 new alarms to the Big Island next year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Once on the path to recovery, the rare and iconic Haleakala silversword on Maui appears to be fighting for survival as rainfall declines and temperatures rise in its mountainous habitat, according to scientists. Star-Advertiser.

Termites are chewing away at the 136-year-old Ka'ahumanu Church, but at least four years of church fundraisers have not brought congregation members anywhere near the $850,000 needed to refurbish the iconic, often-photographed church. Maui News.

Kauai

Island residents who use the Hanama‘ulu post office should expect that mail and packages were likely damaged during Friday’s fire that destroyed the 116-year-old Hanama‘ulu Trading Company building. Garden Island.

The Hawai‘i State Department of Health announced Friday that a chemical contaminant was found in a drinking water reservoir in Princeville. Garden Island.

The Cost Control Commission quietly and without much discussion unanimously approved its 2012 Annual Report during its monthly meeting last week. Garden Island.

Speaker Say ends 14-year reign, Inouye's health unknown, ordnance could halt undersea cable, state urges teachers union to negotiate, DHHL in disarray, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii House Speaker Calvin Say (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

State House Speaker Calvin Say said Thursday that he would step down as speaker, recognizing he no longer has the votes to remain in power but appealing to majority Democrats to organize without the help of Republicans. Star-Advertiser.

The longest-serving speaker in the history of the Hawaii House of Representatives announced Thursday that he is resigning from the chamber's top post. Civil Beat.

House Speaker Calvin Say said Thursday he plans to step down from his leadership post on the first day of Hawaii's new legislative session and is endorsing House Finance Committee Chairman Marcus Oshiro to succeed him. Associated Press.

Speaker Say

Calvin Say has stepped down as speaker of the State House of Representatives. Hawaii News Now.

Rep. Calvin Say announced Thursday he will no longer be a candidate for House Speaker for the 2013-2014 legislative sessions. KITV4.

The longest-serving state Speaker of the House says he is stepping down from his leadership position, but a power struggle at the Capitol is far from resolved. KHON2.

It's been more than a week since U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye was admitted to the hospital, yet his status as of Thursday remained closely guarded. Civil Beat.

The discovery of thousands of chemical warfare weapons off of Pearl Harbor could cause problems for the state's highly touted interisland cable project, designed to bring renewable energy from the neighbor islands to Oahu. Civil Beat.

Facing growing teacher protests over a labor dispute in its 17th month, the state called on the teachers union Thursday to make clear what it wants in a new contract and to explain why it can't return to the bargaining table before the new year. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono will serve on the energy, judiciary and veterans' affairs committees when she moves to the U.S. Senate in January, Senate Demo­crats announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The turnover in leadership at the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands continues, with the latest departure being its deputy director, Michelle Kauhane. Civil Beat.

Mitch Kahle, founder of the Hawaii Citizens for the Separation of State and Church, has often been called "the Grinch who stole Christmas" for his efforts at making sure local governments don't appear to be officially sanctioning religious practices or holidays, including, of course, Christmas. But Kahle doesn't mind. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gas is in the middle of a federal permitting process to bring liquefied natural gas to the Aloha State for the first time. West Hawaii Today.

State roundup for December 14. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Public Charter School Commission voted Thursday to approve the opening of two new charter schools next year on Oahu: an elementary school that would partner with the Polynesian Voyaging Society and a secondary school focused on sustainability. Star-Advertiser.

Rental apartments won out over condominiums Thursday in a competition to build affordable housing in a tower that could rise to 650 feet on state land in Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Some Oahu soldiers out for a bit of exercise ended up rescuing a threatened green sea turtle. Associated Press.

Hawaii

An independent study of Hawaii County’s property tax policies found evidence of what some West Hawaii residents have been complaining about for years —there are big differences in how much tax people pay for what appear to be similar properties. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island veterans struggle to find work. Tribune-Herald.

An Air National Guard presentation at a national conference gave former Ka‘u Councilwoman Brittany Smart an idea. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is looking to take advantage of current low interest rates by refinancing up to $60 million of its long-term debt. Big Island Now.

A well at Puna Geothermal Venture is offline after failing during an annual test on Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Last week, racial and cultural disturbances caused Kona's Kealakehe High School to be closed for a day to let things calm down.  Now some school administrators and community leaders have taken a first step towards addressing core issues beyond last week's incidents. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

The Fairmont Kea Lani, the Four Seasons Resort Maui, the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, and the Wailea Beach Villas have all been ranked on the upcoming Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List for 2013, an annual reader’s choice poll. Maui Now.

The Iao Valley State Monument was reopened Tuesday after the state Department of Land and Natural Resources completed repairs to park walkway sections. Maui News.

The Kaiwi Ohana Holiday Craft Fair, set for Saturday in Waiohuli Hawaiian Homes, has been canceled due to lack of vendor interest, organizers said. Maui News.

Kauai

County officials again heard criticism during a briefing to the Kaua‘i County Council Wednesday on the progress of repairing Kilauea Gym’s leaking roof. Garden Island.

In the 20 years since its inception, Kaua‘i Habitat for Humanity has built 108 affordable homes, made critical repairs to 19 substandard homes and is on track to construct a total of 124 homes by 2021. Garden Island.

Paulo fires up Train Day ahead of Waimea parade. Garden Island.

Akaka bids farewell to Senate, Hawaii lawmakers report more gifts, Supreme Court rebuffs teachers union, Honolulu rail's day in court, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka farewell speech courtesy photo

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka was honored by friends and colleagues on Wednesday as a gentleman who embodied the spirit of aloha even when the political climate in Washington, D.C., turned dark and unforgiving. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Daniel Akaka today delivered his farewell address on the floor of the U.S. Senate. Civil Beat.

Retiring Sen. Daniel Akaka on Wednesday urged Congress to do all it can for U.S. veterans and their families and made one last appeal to allow for Native Hawaiians to form a federally recognized government, an issue he’s unsuccessfully pushed for years. Associated Press.

Hawaii Sen. Daniel Inouye is expected to remain chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Associated Press.

A Civil Beat analysis of lawmakers' 2012 disclosure forms shows that Hawaii legislators received $278,416 in gifts between July 2011 and June 2012, more than twice what they reported receiving last year. Civil Beat.

One day after two environmental groups sued the state over controversial new rules that effectively reduce the number of state tax credits that can be claimed on solar systems, the Hawaii Department of Taxation has exempted some projects from the rules. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's already booming solar industry is seeing a new stampede of business in the wake of new state rules that will reduce Hawaii's generous solar tax credits by half. Hawaii News Now.

A teachers union bid to compel the state labor board to issue a ruling in a petition for relief from the terms of a contract imposed on teachers in July 2011 has failed. Star-Advertiser.

This morning the Hawaii Supreme Court denied a petition by the Hawaii State Teachers Association trying to force the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to prematurely issue a decision regarding the ongoing labor dispute about HSTA's current contract. Hawaii Reporter.

Substitute teachers won millions in back pay on Wednesday in court, but the state has yet to pay for past rulings. KHON2.

The U.S. attorney for Hawaii collected $3.3 million related to civil and criminal cases during the latest fiscal year. Associated Press.

There's growing concern in Hawaii over the impacts of a new federal law aimed at improving food safety and security at everything from roadside stands to big-chain supermarkets. Civil Beat.

Hawai’i lawmakers have been trying to pass Food Safety legislation in Hawai’i for the last two years but have been unsuccessful.  The topic was discussed again yesterday at a House Agriculture Committee meeting. Hawaii Public Radio.

It took 14 years, but Angel Yanagihara, a biochemist and assistant research professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, has developed a treatment for painful and possibly life-threatening box jellyfish stings. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is one of 32 states that will share, with the District of Columbia, in a $42.9 million settlement with Pfizer Inc. that resolves claims the drug maker used unfair and deceptive practices to market its drugs Zyvox and Lyrica. Pacific Business News.

State briefs 12/13. Associated Press.

Oahu

A federal judge will soon decide whether to issue a court order that would essentially halt the city’s rail project and its federal funding, or issue a more limited injunction suggested by the city to stop construction only in the project’s final downtown segment of the 20-mile rail line. Star-Advertiser.

The $1.55 billion Honolulu expects to receive from the Federal Transit Administration to help build the controversial Honolulu rail project could now hinge on the opinion of a federal judge. Civil Beat.

A ruling that could ultimately decide the fate of Honolulu’s elevated-rail project will be made in “short order,” U.S. District Judge A. Wallace Tashima said Wednesday after hearing arguments from attorneys for the plaintiffs and defendants in the federal lawsuit challenging the $5.16 billion project. Pacific Business News.

A federal judge today listened to new arguments in the legal challenge to Honolulu’s $5.3 billion rapid transit project and said he will rule shortly on whether to order a halt to the project. Hawaii Reporter.

The city of Honolulu has launched a yearlong project to study tsunami inundation zones and determine where improved escape routes or clear signs are needed to better inform the public of where to go during a tsunami warning and evacuation. Star-Advertiser.

A group of Honolulu paramedics and emergency medical technicians filed a legal complaint Wednesday accusing the city of failing to pay them overtime earned during the past six years. Star-Advertiser.

Come January 22nd, all your daily water use will be billed to you on a monthly schedule. KHON2.

Observers reported seeing 10 Hawaiian monk seals Wednesday on various Oahu beaches, including an offshore islet. Star-Advertiser.

After Hawaii Reporter published news stories about local businessman Daniel Doi’s legal problems with the state, Doi created his own web site, called Hawaii Reported, that claims he is the victim of a political vendetta orchestrated by state officials. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii

County Council members who leave office are no longer under the jurisdiction of the Board of Ethics, even if their actions took place during their tenure with the county. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye announced Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved a biocontrol project aimed at slowing the spread of fireweed, or Madagascar ragwort, on the islands of Hawaii and Maui. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation is moving ahead with plans for a roundabout on Highway 130 near Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

Terry Oliver, a four-decade forestry veteran, has high hopes for the eucalyptus timber industry on the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An imported case of dengue fever has been reported on Maui, but the state Department of Health says there have been no additional cases so far. Maui News.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's approval of using moth caterpillars from Madagascar in the battle against fireweed was welcomed Wednesday as a long-awaited, effective weapon to kill the noxious weed that sickens and sometimes kills cattle. Maui News.

The Iao Valley State Monument was reopened Tuesday after the state Department of Land and Natural Resources completed repairs to park walkway sections. Maui News.

Kauai

A proposal to raise the minimum real property tax by 500 percent on Kaua‘i died in the hands of the Kaua‘i County Council’s Finance and Economic Development Committee Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hanalei Pier shed removal triggers restoration efforts. Garden Island.

Local residents are reminded that experts from the University of Hawai‘i will discuss the health of coral along Kaua‘i’s North Shore during a community briefing today in Hanalei. Garden Island.

Molokai

The 113th Audubon Christmas Bird Count will take place on Molokai Thursday, Dec. 20. Molokai Dispatch.

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.

Hawaii teachers union rejects contract, Green Party sues state elections office, Inouye remains hospitalized, UH Pisces program at sea over budget cuts, TPL finalizes $25M Oahu land buy, Maui Island Plan advances, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii State Teachers Association courtesy photo

The teachers union has turned down a settlement offer that would have included the restoration of a 5 percent wage cut, 2 percent raises each year of the 2013-15 contract and $2,500 bonuses for new teachers who successfully complete probation. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teacher's Association's negotiating team has reportedly rejected the state's most recent contract offer, according to a Hawaii Department of Education spokesperson.  Hawaii News Now.

Work-to-the-rule is something teachers practice poorly at best and not at all at worst. Civil Beat.

The Green Party of Hawaii and seven voters representing every major island are suing state Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago, alleging he improperly promulgated rules dealing with ballot shortages in the Nov. 6 General Election. West Hawaii Today.

The Green Party of Hawaii is suing the state and its chief election officer because of how the general election last month was conducted. Associated Press.

The Green Party of Hawaii has asked a state court to stop the chief elections officer from conducting another election until there are new rules in place to prevent the type of voter disenfranchisement that occurred in November. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has been hospitalized since Thursday after he fainted while in one of his Senate offices, according to his staff. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye was admitted Sunday to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for observation related to his oxygen intake. Inouye fainted at his office on Dec. 6 and was taken to George Washington University Hospital. Hawaii News Now.

As part of a $25.4 million upgrade, State Civil Defense officials are changing how they activate Hawaii's tsunami sirens. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii submersible program, already hit by federal budget cuts, is trying to line up research and commercial dives next year to keep the 32-year-old program afloat but has no contracts yet, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

FCC’s Plan to Put Political Ad Data Online Falls Short. Civil Beat.

More than 270 accountants, attorneys and tax experts attended a workshop today to hear about what the State Tax Department is doing to increase revenues. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for December 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

The state and a nonprofit organization have finalized the $25 million purchase of one of Oahu's largest tracts of undeveloped land in a move expected to significantly expand food production and make Hawaii more self-sufficient. Star-Advertiser.

The Trust for Public Land’s purchase of 1,743 acres of former pineapple fields in Central Oahu from the George Galbraith Trust for $25 million closed on Monday, according to Bishop Street Commercial, which handled the sale. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

There were no incidents at Kealakehe High on Monday, the first day back for students since fighting linked to racial tensions caused school officials to cancel classes Friday. Star-Advertiser.

One of two men who escaped from Hawaii Community Correctional Center last Wednesday allegedly choked an unarmed, 63-year-old guard while the other punched the victim and stole his keys to the facility, according to court documents. Tribune-Herald.

Jamae Kawauchi Starts New Job As Deputy Prosecutor. Big Island Now.

According to an application filed in October, a South Kohala company wants to develop about 150 2-acre lots, but there’s a problem: the lot size is a deviation from the 5 acres required by the area’s zoning. West Hawaii Today.

Renovations to the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium are scheduled to begin Monday and end just before the start of next year’s Merrie Monarch Festival. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island had the highest rate of violations in the state, with 8.1 percent percent of the stores selling to minors. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council today voted to advance on first reading the Maui Island Plan by a 7-2 vote, but not before making amendments to add in and remove certain lands from the plan's directed growth boundaries. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member-elect Don Guzman raised nearly 30 times as much money as opponent Alan Fukuyama to win the council's Kahului residency seat, according to a Maui News analysis of campaign spending reports. Maui News.

Two of the three coral species found in Hawaii that have been proposed for listing as endangered or threatened species by the National Marine Fisheries Service are growing off the shores of Maui. Maui News.

Combining a passion for supporting local agriculture and producing innovative beers, the latest round of Maui Brewing Co.'s seasonal canned brews showcases Maui-grown breadfruit as its star ingredient. Maui News.

Kauai

The county of Kauai has a program aimed at cracking down on junk mail and saving landfill space. Associated Press.

The basketball courts at Laukona and Wiliko parks in Hanama‘ulu were closed Friday, and will continue to be closed for approximately two weeks for resurfacing. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank’s Holiday Food and Fund drive got a boost over the weekend with contributions from CBRE, the management company for the Kukui Grove Center, as well as Cub Scouts from Cub Pack 148 in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Sea levels rising, politicians spending, anti-tobacco money cut, Turtle Bay expansion to increase traffic jams, Maui fines ukulele fest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii shoreline (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Scientists are predicting the ocean could rise by as much as a foot in the Hawaiian Islands by 2050 and that droughts may become more frequent on leeward sides of the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Linda Lingle, Ed Case and Mufi Hannemann were considered among Hawaii's most polished and accomplished politicians. While varied factors contributed to their defeats, the common denominator — overwhelming rejection by voters — has severely weakened them as viable contenders. Star-Advertiser.

What does it take to win a Hawaii congressional seat? The latest campaign spending reports due last week show the winning candidates each raised and spent more than $1 million to capture the vote. Civil Beat.

The FBI has ended its year-long investigation of Hawaii school bus companies for possible collusion in setting prices. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is spending less this year on tobacco prevention, which has knocked its national ranking from third to fifth for its efforts to prevent kids from smoking. Pacific Business News.

A new state law is providing a two-year window for victims of child sexual abuse to sue for damages, no matter how long ago the abuses occurred in Hawaii. Maui News.

Oahu
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.

A proposed major expansion of Turtle Bay Resort is expected to add thousands of cars to the road and make the traffic situation significantly worse along the two-lane highway that fronts some of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, according to a new environmental study of the project. Civil Beat.

An Idaho skilled nursing company is under contract to purchase a 2.4-acre property in Aina Haina for a rehabilitation facility. Star-Advertiser.

Kenyan first among nearly 26,000 in Honolulu Marathon. Hawaii News Now.

The world's largest commercial aircraft  touched down in Honolulu on Sunday. Hawaiian Airlines said Airbus, the jetliner manufacturer, is pitching them to buy the plane. KITV4.

Hawaii

Mayor Billy Kenoi spent $21.50 for each vote he garnered in his re-election bid, more than twice what was spent per vote in a contentious Honolulu mayoral race, according to final campaign spending reports filed Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

State public safety officials are moving to reopen Hawaii island's Kulani Correctional Facility, which was shut down in 2009, with some 160 inmates scattered elsewhere. Star-Advertiser.

Cheryl “Quack” Moore was raising the roof over a new roof at the Palace Theater last week. After a 10-year effort, the much-needed project was finally under way at the 87-year-old landmark. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County has issued a $5,000 fine against the organizers of the first Paia Ukulele Festival, held Nov. 24 on oceanfront property off Hana Highway at the Johnny B's Burgers location. Maui News.

Since Danny and Buck Boren of Maui launched the first commercial zip line tour in the United States a decade ago on the slopes of Hale­akala, the concept has literally taken off across the island chain and the country. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Without an explanation and with a comment short of an apology, the owner of Kealia Properties LLC withdrew his request to extend two subdivision permits to more than 2,000 acres of prime agricultural land across Kealia Beach. Garden Island.

Kelvin Moniz, the Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank Food Resources director, estimated the Kalaheo Elementary School food drive yielded between 400 to 500 pounds of food Friday morning. Garden Island.

Molokai

On the Nov. 6 general election ballots, Maui County residents voted in favor of an initiative that makes it easier for residents of remote communities like Molokai to give their testimony during county council meetings held in Wailuku. Molokai Dispatch.

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.