Hawaii Historic Preservation in danger of federal decertification, rail transit campaign gets nasty, Maalaea Small Boat Harbor expansion halted, Honolulu city ethics questioned, Ka'u gym advances, Molokai group fights interisland cable, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands for smartphone and web

Kawa bay historic hale (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Despite improvements in some areas, the state agency that protects Hawaii's historic and cultural sites still is plagued by major shortcomings and continues to face the possibility of decertification and loss of federal funding, according to a recent assessment by the federal government. Star-Advertiser.

Who's Giving Big Bucks to Our Senate Candidates? A snapshot of contributions to Linda Lingle, Mazie Hirono and Ed Case. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel Inouye took a quick trip to Alaska last week to help Alaska Sen. Mark Begich raise some money for his re-election campaign. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines is flying 13 percent more passenger miles than last year, after expanding capacity by the same amount. Hawaii News Now.

A new documentary explores the causes of obesity, and some of Hawai`i’s top experts will discuss both causes and challenges. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for May 7. Associated Press.

Oahu

A temporary black sewer pipe surfaced Saturday in the Ala Wai Canal, but the pipe is not leaking or posing a health risk, the city's Environmental Services Department said in a release. Star-Advertiser.

According to the Environmental Services Department, an air bubble lifted a section of the 5,000-foot long pipe, exposing 100 feet on the surface of the canal near the Hawaii Convention Center Saturday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

The archery range at Kapiolani Park will remain closed for at least another month until the city Parks Department can conduct a public hearing to determine whether it should be closed permanently. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to stop nearly all commercial activity at Kailua Beach Park has Windward Oahu deeply divided. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ethics officials say in the past three years, they've investigated more than 240 allegations of ethical misconduct by city employees. That's more than one complaint a week. Civil Beat.

The PR campaign being waged by rail supporters and opponents of Honolulu’s $5.17 billion project has gone into a kind of ‘If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all’ mode. Pacific Business News.

Idaho-based Mountain West Research group has been calling Oahu residents in recent weeks from a 213 area code, spreading nasty rumors about Honolulu mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano and Council Member Tom Berg. Both Cayetano and Berg oppose the city’s $5.3 billion elevated steel on steel rail project. Hawaii Reporter.

Deputy attorney general Kevin Takata announced his decision to run for Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney. Takata is a career prosecutor and has dedicated his life serving the public and prosecuting crimes. Hawaii Reporter.

Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and the whole Disney gang pulled into port in Honolulu Sunday as part of the Disney Wonder's inaugural voyage to the Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

The Royal Hawaiian Band will receive the 2012 Industry Award from the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

For several Big Island lawmakers, Hawaii’s $11.2 billion budget could be boiled down to one word: jobs. Tribune-Herald.

The Office of Planning’s Coastal Zone Management Program is conducting two listening sessions this month on the Big Island to accept comments on the Hawaii Ocean Resources Management Plan, currently being updated. West Hawaii Today.

The Ka‘u District Gym and Shelter recently moved a step closer to fruition with the release of a final environmental assessment finding the project will likely have no significant impact. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Federal and state agencies are ending a decadeslong project that would have expanded Maalaea Small Boat Harbor, citing costs as well as opposition from community groups that maintained that the proposals would fail to protect the harbor from surges while destroying acres of coral and affecting the "Freight Train" surf break. Maui News.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources has withdrawn plans to extend the breakwater in Ma’alaea Harbor, citing costs and community and enviromental  concerns as the reason for the termination. KITV4.

Hana High and Elementary School is one example of how Hawaii's per-pupil funding formula seems to hammer small schools. Civil Beat.

The county Liquor Control Adjudication Board disciplined four Maui businesses Thursday, two for serving alcohol to minors and two for having employees unlawfully drinking while on the job. Maui News.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has issued a final decision for a 2010 rate case involving Maui Electric Company. Maui Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono rallied Maui Democrats on Saturday in a sometimes impassioned speech that recalled her impoverished beginnings as a Japanese immigrant, unapologetically acclaimed liberal ideals and took some shots at former Republican Gov. Linda Lingle. Maui News.

Financial challenges facing Maui Land & Pineapple Co. are raising a "substantial doubt about the company's ability to continue as a going concern," the company reports in its latest filing with the U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i joined the rest of the nation in the National Day of Prayer Thursday, hosting two observances in the rotunda of the Mo‘ikeha Building. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary announced last week that it is seeking to fill eight primary and nine alternate seats on its advisory council. Garden Island.

Three Civil Air Patrol cadets were promoted to Airman First Class and eight cadets, including the three promoted cadets, earned their Certificates of First Flight Tuesday night during the Civil Air Patrol meeting at the T-Hangers where the CAP planes are hangered at the Lihu‘e Airport. Garden Island.

Molokai

Big Wind opponent I Aloha Molokai has unleashed a petition to stop the multi-billion interisland undersea cable from being built. Pacific Business News.

The senate floor discussion on SB2785 centered on opposition from Lanai and Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

No 'Hawaii Aloha' in Legislature's Sine Die, panel paves way for geothermal exploration without environmental assessments, governor rebuffs teacher contract offer, voters favor assisted suicide, undersea cable to pipe electricity to Oahu headed to governor, Health Department rejects claims of pollution in Hanalei Bay, Agri-tourism advances on Big Island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The state House and Senate gave final approval Thursday to an $11.2 billion budget and a $3.2 billion outlay for capital improvement projects, taking measured steps to restore money cut from programs during the recession while investing in construction intended to prod economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii lawmakers closed out the 2012 legislative session, some remarked that it was the first time in years they hadn’t had to contend with a budget deficit in excess of $1 billion. Associated Press.

State Budget Voted On Last Day of Legislative Session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bow tie sine die in the Hawaii House, courtesy photo

It wasn't all that long ago that the state Senate would join the state House of Representatives on the floor of the House to sing "Hawaii Aloha." Civil Beat.

If last year's theme was "righting the canoe," this year's theme is all about investing in the economy and the future. With Gov. Neil Abercrombie's symbolic canoe no longer in jeopardy of capsizing, he's eased up on his mantra that we all need to paddle. Civil Beat.

A proposal to connect Oahu and the neighbor island power grids with an undersea cable has cleared a legislative hurdle. Associated Press.

A bill to create the regulatory framework for transmitting electricity between Hawaii’s islands via an undersea cable won approval from the State Legislature on Thursday and now heads to Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who is expected to sign Senate Bill 2785 into law. Pacific Business News.

Despite a torrent of complaints from neighbor island and other environmentalists, the Hawaii Senate passed the controversial undersea cable bill. Civil Beat.

Legislation Establishes Regulatory Framework for Developing, Financing, and Constructing Underwater Electric Transmission Cable. Hawaii Reporter.

Legislators have voted to make fundamental changes to the state's judicial system. They passed a law that streamlines prison and parole requirements and could ultimately help reduce the number of Hawaii inmates in mainland corrections centers. Hawaii News Now.

On Thursday, a subcommittee of the state Environmental Council heard from potential geothermal developers about why the State Land Department should be allowed to waive certain environmental regulations. If approved by the full 15-member Environmental Council May 17, the exemptions would allow the State Land Department to drop costly environmental assessments from geothermal exploration projects. KITV4.

Bills to overhaul Hawaii's early-learning system and charter school network easily gained passage at the Legislature on Thursday, with state lawmakers saying the proposed education improvements are long overdue. Star-Advertiser.

The teachers union was moving forward Thursday with plans to hold a new vote on a proposed contract that teachers soundly rejected in January, despite the governor's contention that the proposal has "no legal standing." Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association's sudden decision Wednesday to put a rejected contract up for a re-vote by its members caught many off guard. Civil Beat.

Hawaii voters support the rights of doctors to help terminally ill patients end their lives by better than a 2-to-1 margin, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

Kealoha in 2007, courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is naming the slam poet known as Kealoha to be Hawaii's first poet laureate. Associated Press.

The Navy hospital ship Mercy, whose huge white hull is emblazoned with large red crosses, is on its way to Hawaii as it embarks on a 4 1⁄2-month humanitarian and civic assistance mission to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Capitalizing on strong demand for service to Las Vegas, Hawaiian Airlines said it is adding two more weekly flights to its Honolulu-Las Vegas service. KITV4.

The statewide average price of gasoline dropped by about 4 cents from last week, the first significant price drop since December, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch issued Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann opened his Oahu campaign headquarters Thursday night. KHON2.

Sen. Daniel Inouye (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Oahu

The race for Honolulu mayor has drawn U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye into a verbal confrontation with former Gov. Ben Cayetano, who said the senator is "out of touch" on the issue of the city's planned $5.27 billion rail transit project. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of Kuhio Park Terrace and Kuhio Homes tenants will receive rent rebate checks from a class-action settlement reached with the Hawaii Public Housing Authority. Star-Advertiser.

First Wind has filed a $15 million building permit for work on part of its 70-megawatt Kawailoa Wind Farm on Oahu’s North Shore. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu's director of environmental services estimates it will take seven years and at least $110 million to develop a new landfill on Oahu. Associated Press.

Hawaii

The island’s two planning commissions are making it easier for farms to lure and accommodate tourists. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission is giving a community center in Kalapana Seaview Estates another chance to obey the law. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Community College at Palamanui moved a step forward with the appropriation of state general obligation bonds that will help fund not one, but two phases of the long-awaited West Hawaii educational institution. West Hawaii Today.

Doctors say they come to Hawaii Island for the quality of life, but money concerns show up in the top two tiers of priorities, according to a recently published survey of island clinicians. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Sen. Malama Solomon

Big Island state Sen. Malama Solomon will hold a series of community forums this month to talk about this year’s legislative session. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County is taking ownership of one of the last undeveloped shoreline parcels of a once famous and vast network of wetlands and fishponds between the mouths of Waiehu and Iao Streams. Associated Press.

Some popular and environmentally sensitive areas of the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve could remain closed to the public for another year while the state continues work on a draft management plan for the South Maui reserve. Maui News.

So far, 32 nene from Kauai have made their home on Maui after state workers last year started to remove at least several hundred of the geese near Kauai's Lihue Airport to ensure that the birds don't become flying hazards for aircraft. Maui News.

Kauai
After a North Shore resident disclosed earlier this week that recent test results pointed to high levels of metal pollution in Hanalei River and Hanalei Bay, state officials quickly dismissed the findings, saying they are unfounded and have created unnecessary fear and concern in the community. Garden Island.

New contract vote set for Hawaii teachers union, Honolulu mayoral candidates hold first debate, space tourism bills, $11.2B state budget up for vote in Legislature, more geothermal coming to Big Island, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

Hawaii schoolchildren at play (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii teachers will vote again on the contract settlement offer they overwhelmingly rejected in January, union leaders announced Wednesday night. Civil Beat.

The teachers union announced Wednesday it will take another vote on a proposed contract overwhelmingly rejected in January, a decision a union leader said is "driven by the urgency to preserve" the state's $75 million Race to the Top grant. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii's public school teachers union will be holding a number of "informational meetings" statewide for HSTA members in May. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Legislature will vote on the $11.2 billion state budget Thursday, the final day of the legislative session. KHON2.

The state Office of Information Practices hopes a bill that would grant government agencies a new right to appeal open records decisions in court would give its orders more legal clout, yet open government advocates warn that it would delay public access to information. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are expected to pass two bills on Thursday that would bring the state closer to space tourism and even developing the moon. Hawaii News Now.

Voters across Hawaii support the construction of underwater cables between some of the islands to transmit electricity from wind, geothermal or solar, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

A strong majority of Hawaii voters want the government to preserve more land and develop less of it. Civil Beat.

Hawaii may once again look to its four-legged friends to help prevent the introduction of invasive species. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii's four county mayors reminded residents Wednesday to always be prepared for natural disasters because they can strike unexpectedly any time of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The film commissions of all four Hawai'i counties, the Hawai'i Film Office, and the Creative Industries Division of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism were recently honored with a collaborative award from the American Marketing Association. Hawaii Reporter.

Ten million dollars is headed to the islands to improve community health care. The grants are part of the federal Affordable Care Act and the money will be used to reach more patients. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii gained a little ground this year in Chief Executive magazine’s annual survey of the best and worst states in which to do business. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The three candidates vying for Honolulu mayor engaged in the first debate of the campaign season Wednesday night, touching on a variety of subjects but ultimately trying to score points against one another on the singularly contentious issue of rail transit. Star-Advertiser.

In their first time on a stage together as mayoral candidates, Kirk Caldwell, Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano quickly established their roles. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s three mayoral candidates met Wednesday evening in their first debate of the election season, with the city’s $5.3 billion rapid transit project most of their attention. Hawaii Reporter.

In their first Mayoral debate, Ben Cayetano, Peter Carlisle and Kirk Caldwell wasted no time getting to Oahu's most talked about issue - rail. KHON2.

FACT CHECK — Caldwell: Carlisle Raised Property Tax Rates. Civil Beat.

The governor's wife voiced her opposition, but the state Wednesday gave developers of a planned $380 million luxury condominium tower in Kakaako an exemption from a rule intended to preserve mauka-makai views. Star-Advertiser.

Leeward Coast residents hoping to rid themselves of Waimanalo Gulch Landfill will have to wait awhile. KITV4.

Sen. Daniel Akaka

The University of Hawaii will award honorary degrees to Sen. Daniel Akaka and Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami at commencement ceremonies next week. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa has confirmed a possible computer security threat that was found on campus. KITV4.

Hawaii

The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Two groups opposed to floating fish farms are considering an appeal of a ruling by U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway that a federal agency was within its authority to grant an ocean aquaculture permit to a private research venture. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined three Big Island businesses. Tribune-Herald.

A push to make corporation counsel an elected position took another step forward Wednesday, as County Council members made several amendments to the proposal and scheduled a public hearing. West Hawaii Today.

Kona International Airport will get some much-needed TLC with $10.4 million slated by the state Legislature to re-roof the open-airport’s main terminal early next year. West Hawaii Today.

A popular performing arts center in Kalapana Seaview Estates is facing a possible shutdown today by the Windward Planning Commission. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County has purchased 64 acres of undeveloped property fronting Kaehu Bay, preserving the wetland and fishponds in a $996,000 deal brokered with the Trust for Public Land and other groups. Maui News.

The County of Maui completed the $996,000 purchase of 64 acres of undeveloped coastal wetlands at Ka‘ehu Bay in Paukukalo. Maui Now.

A community meeting to provide public input on the development of the 2012-2017 State Historic Preservation Plan will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Maui High School. Maui News.

Hawaiian Airlines has added three new boarding gates to its Kahului Airport operations, with all flights using gates 11 to 21 in the center of the terminal. Maui News.

Kauai

State workers have removed 300 nene geese from the area around Kauai's airport in the last few months to reduce the risk they will get in the way of airplanes taking off and landing. Associated Press.

The North Shore Path, a project to connect North Shore communities through a path similar to Kapa‘a’s Ke Ala Hele Makalae path, is gaining momentum. Garden Island.

Molokai

An old guy from Molokai is flying to Oahu and helping to lead a charge for labeling. Molokai Dispatch.

Interisland cable bill revived, Board of Education tries to stem $16M bus shortfall, cybercrime bills pass, newspaper circulation rises, Medicaid changes in the works, open records challenges can now go to court, Hawaii County property values drop 3.6 percent, Maui gets federal money for clinic, Kauai birds flown to other islands, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Interisland cable, courtesy photo

The state Senate on Tuesday revived a bill that would create a regulatory framework for an interisland electric transmission cable, a priority for Gov. Neil Abercrombie's energy agenda. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii voters across the board oppose same-sex marriage, legalizing marijuana and rail. But those who vote regularly feel differently from those who don't, according to The Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

The State Senate passed more than one hundred bills on the chamber floor today leaving more than 60 fiscal-related bills left to vote on Thursday, the last day of the session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers have approved a trio of bills aimed at preventing cybercrimes. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers have heard the exasperation of local hospital administrators eager for a change in how they’re paid for providing health-care services to Medicaid patients. Pacific Business News.

The state House and Senate unanimously passed a bill Tuesday that would require business owners who lease land from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to propose making “substantial improvements” to their facilities before being granted a new lease. Tribune-Herald.

A complete overhaul of the state's charter school system is poised for passage Thursday at the state Legislature, along with $500,000 to help smooth the transition. Star-Advertiser.

An estimated 17 leadership and other positions at adult community schools will be eliminated when state funding for the campuses is halved next school year, but education officials pledged the range of adult education services offered by the state will remain the same. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Education and its governing board are laying out an array of bandages to dress the wounds they anticipate after making severe cuts to student transportation services. Civil Beat.

Over the next two weeks, the state Department of Education will search for ways to tackle a $16 million shortfall for student transportation without making big cuts to service. Star-Advertiser.

A Board of Education committee was briefed Tuesday about various options to address a $16 million shortfall for student bus service for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year. KITV4.

A day after news broke of one more Department of Education employee charged with stealing thousands of dollars from another public school, the DOE said it's cracking down to prevent employees from stealing. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's open records agency is celebrating the fact that it has won government agencies a new right to appeal decisions compelling the release of public records. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers announced that House Bill 1875 HD2 SD2 CD1, which amends the mortgage foreclosure law to provide additional protections for Hawaii’s homeowners, passed its final floor vote Tuesday before the full House and Senate. Associated Press.

Transporting wild or feral deer between islands is a pen stroke away from being banned. Tribune-Herald.

State senators will present the Hawaii Foodbank a check for $9,400 on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The City Council is considering rules governing First Amendment activities at parks more than 10 years after protesters filed a lawsuit because there was no process to determine where and how they could demonstrate against the 2001 Asian Development Bank conference. Star-Advertiser.

A member of the Occupy Honolulu movement was arrested during a Lei Day celebration. The arrest then sparked a protest in front of the Honolulu Police Department's main station this afternoon. KHON2.

The commanding officer and senior enlisted sailor on the Pearl Harbor-based submarine USS Columbia were relieved of duties Tuesday for "shortfalls in professional performance" leading to a loss of confidence in their ability to serve in positions of command authority, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

May Day was a major protest day for Occupy Wall Street activists throughout the country. Occupy Honolulu was not about to be left out. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser’s total average circulation for its weekday newspaper grew by 6 percent since last year, according to semiannual circulation data released in the Audit Bureau of Circulation on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Federal agents and police raided two homes and at least five businesses last night and today in an investigation of an alleged illegal lottery operation that caters to Honolulu’s Southeast Asian population. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu named one of the world’s best travel spots. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii County property values decreased by 3.6 percent over the past fiscal year, a figure so close to Mayor Billy Kenoi’s earlier estimate that he said Tuesday there will be little, if any, changes when he submits his final budget later this week. West Hawaii Today.

Construction could begin in the fall on an $18.5 million, 100-bed skilled-nursing facility in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A pilot program to truck garbage from Hilo and Puna transfer station sites has ended, a county Department of Environmental Management official said, and County Council members would like to keep it that way. Tribune-Herald.

A measure prohibiting trucking trash from Hilo and Puna to the West Hawaii landfill passed from council committee unanimously, with little fanfare and no public testimony. West Hawaii Today.

Opposition to re-appropriating $4 million to the Waimea Trails and Greenways project headlined a Hawaii County Council public hearing Tuesday evening that drew just five people commenting on the proposed fiscal year 2012-13 operating and capital budget. West Hawaii Today.

The state budget set to be be finalized Thursday contains $50.4 million in capital improvement projects for West Hawaii, two state representatives said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Kona coffee farmers are asking the governor to veto a bill that removes mandatory certification requirements for Hawaii-grown coffee. Associated Press.

Maui

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is awarding $10.1 million in grants to community health centers on Maui and the Big Island. Associated Press.

The Community Clinic of Maui is the recipient of a $4.5 million grant made possible through new legislation outlined in the Affordable Care Act. Maui Now.

Not very many people would be excited to be going on a garbage patch expedition. Maui News.

Drug court pioneer retires. Maui News.

Lahaina, Maui made a list of top 25 places in the nation released today by TripAdvisor. Maui Now.

Kauai

It has been a year since Governor Neil Abercrombie issued an emergency declaration to relocate a growing flock of endangered waterbirds from the Kauai airport. KITV4.

House Bill 2100 appropriates $5,000 for bee hive research each county in Hawai‘i, including Kaua‘i County, and an additional $10,000 for UH Hilo, College of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resource Management. Garden Island.

The Kapa‘a and Waimea swimming pools will be closed Thursday afternoon to allow staff to attend an island-wide meeting. Garden Island.

Federal judge lets Hawaii Family Forum intervene in gay marriage case, Legislature focuses on spending bills, near-miss over Oahu investigated, hostess bars limited on Maui, Hawaii County pay held stable, push polls concern Honolulu candidates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands for smartphone and web

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A federal judge ruled Monday that the Hawaii Family Forum can intervene against a legal attack on Hawaii's marriage laws. KITV4.

With Gov. Neil Abercrombie opposing the request and his state Health Director Loretta Fuddy supporting it, a federal judge granted a motion Monday by the Hawaii Family Forum to intervene in a court case and defend Hawaii laws banning same-sex marriages. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge says the Christian organization Hawaii Family Forum may participate in a legal case addressing the issue of gay marriage. Associated Press.

After a weekend of budget negotiations, House and Senate committee members agreed on Monday to focus spending on public health and safety, social services and education. Associated Press.

In their last act under an extended deadline, state lawmakers agreed Monday to provide $11.6 million for social service programs, restoring some of the money that had been cut during the recession. Star-Advertiser.

With the wrangling over the state budget complete, Hawaii is poised to infuse more than $3 billion worth of construction projects into the economy over the next year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers want to expand early learning opportunities statewide. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa

Civil rights activist Mitchell Kahle and his friend Kevin Hughes filed a Circuit Court lawsuit Friday against former Senate President Colleen Hanabusa over Kahle's ouster from the State Capitol after he objected to opening the Senate session with a prayer. Star-Advertiser.

An overhaul of the state’s 1-year-old foreclosure law is expected to pass the Legislature today. Star-Advertiser.

Senate lawmakers have shelved a controversial bill that would have banned health insurers from serving on the board of the state's new health insurance exchange. Star-Advertiser.

Seventeen million dollars. That's the hole the Hawaii Department of Education has to fill in its school bus budget. On Tuesday the Board of Education is expected to hear an official recommendation from the department on how to cover the shortfall. Civil Beat.

State roundup for May 1. Associated Press.

Oahu
A mistake by an air-traffic controller resulted in two jets being put on a collision course as they approached Honolulu International Airport in January. A Hawaii News Now investigation revealed the incident was never reported to higher ups at the Federal Aviation Administration, resulting in an FAA probe and the retirement of the longtime head of air traffic control in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Architecture and engineering students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa will have the chance to design and engineer homes at a state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands subdivision in Kapolei, under agreements signed Monday by UH President M.R.C. Greenwood and Hawaiian Homes Commission Chairman Alapaki Nahale-a. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano

Both former Gov. Benjamin Cayetano, a candidate for Honolulu mayor, and Honolulu City Council Member Tom Berg who is up for re-election, are reporting push polls are targeting their campaigns. Hawaii Reporter.

A Honolulu City Council committee gave preliminary approval Monday to a bill that would make it easier for transit officials to tap up to $450 million via low-interest city loans, but not before several Council members demanded more details. Star-Advertiser.

It's actually more expensive to grow food locally than to import it from California, according to Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell. Civil Beat.

TJ Maxx is getting an early start for the opening of its new Hawaii store on Thursday. Pacific Business News.

A series of community meetings is scheduled for this week to discuss the rail project proposed for Honolulu. The meetings will be held in communities along the proposed route from Kapolei to Ala Moana Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tucked away in a secure location in Pearl City, microbiologists at the Department of Health's State Laboratory Facility monitor a wide variety of public health risks. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

There will be no raises, but no pay cuts, either, for top Hawaii County executives this year, following a unanimous vote Monday by the county Salary Commission. Salaries for County Council members will be dropping a little in December, however, under the plan. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo International Airport should be slightly less noisy in 2015, according to a state Department of Transportation report. The agency’s draft Noise Exposure Map is projecting a small drop drop in air carrier and general aviation flights that year, when compared to 2010. Tribune-Herald.

The anticipated opening date for the Ane Keohokalole Highway has been pushed back another month, from some time this month to mid-June. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa doesn't want his county to have more than a dozen hostess bars. Associated Press.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa

No additional hostess bars will be allowed in Maui County, as Mayor Alan Arakawa recently signed off on administrative rules to leave a hostess bar cap in place at 12 establishments. Maui News.

Retailers located near the intersection of Lahaina's Front and Prison streets are bracing for temporary road closures next month when Maui County begins work on sewage lines. Maui News.

The combination of smart people and serious money made the day-long conference focused on the future of plug-in electric vehicles a memorable event. Maui News.

Kauai
Federal Emergency Management Agency officials arrived on Kaua‘i Monday to help island agencies apply for as much as $1.65 million in federal aid available in the wake of the violent storms in March. Garden Island.

Justin Kollar

After running unopposed in her first election in 2008, Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho will have at least one opponent in the 2012 race. Carvalho will face Deputy County Attorney Justin Kollar. Garden Island.

A long awaited Hawaii Supreme Court ruling has affirmed Kuleana Rights, a Hawaiian law established 160 years ago that assures property owners with land located within a larger private property owned by someone else have the right to access their property. Hawaii Reporter.

Money problems threaten Pisces V, Hawaii Historic Preservation Division in trouble again, newspaper lobbies for legal ads, toxins polluting Hanalei Bay, Legislature finalizes budget, enters final week, UHH salaries spike, Molokai tweets, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pisces V launch, courtesy photo

Mere weeks after filmmaker James Cameron plunged to the deepest reaches of the ocean and at the same time that China is testing a new submersible in undersea mining grounds 600 miles south of Hawaii, federal funding is in jeopardy for the only two U.S. deep-diving research submersibles in the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

The state agency charged with safeguarding Hawaii's historic and archeological treasures is in such disarray that the federal government is threatening to revoke its certification and funding. Civil Beat.

Nearly four dozen bills have received lifelines under an extended deadline at the state Legislature, including a bill that would provide money to preserve a safety net of health, human services and education programs. Star-Advertiser.

In Lazarus-like fashion, the Hawaii Legislature on Sunday resurrected 47 measures that had failed to meet a Friday deadline. Civil Beat.

A handshake just before 3 a.m. Saturday ended the state’s budget impasse. Associated Press.

There is an agreement on the state's $11.2 billion budget. But it took lawmakers negotiating into the early morning hours to hammer out the deal. KITV4.

Lawmakers say they were happy negotiators were able to come to a compromise and say time is critical. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers passed out a number of bills in advance of a 6 p.m. internal deadline on Friday, but the $11.2 billion budget bill wasn’t among them. Associated Press.

Organizations offering services to Hawaii’s needy have had their budgets slashed by 19 percent since the financial crisis hit in 2008, and they’ve lost 16 percent of their staff, an advocacy group for the poor said Tuesday. Associated Press

Administrators at the 18 public schools trying out a new teacher evaluation system need as much as three hours per teacher to conduct the comprehensive observation that is a central component of the process. Star-Advertiser.

The state Legislature will vote this week on a bill that would overhaul Hawaii's charter school management structure. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Star Advertiser’s bid to keep monopoly control of non-judicial foreclosure newspaper ads has failed at the Legislature and a key state senator said she was “appalled” by the newspaper’s lobbying tactics. Hawaii Reporter.

The details still may be unclear about how many Marines could be headed to Hawaii after a U.S. and Japanese agreement to transfer 9,000 of them out of Okinawa was reached this week, but contractors anticipate that it could mean more work here to house the additional troops. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Christian Coalition presents its annual Prayer at the Capitol May 3, Thursday 6:30-8:00pm State Capitol Auditorium. Hawaii Reporter.

Na Maka O Ka ‘Aina is an independent video production company that has documented social and environmental struggles in Hawai’i since the 1980’s.  Because of their dedication and the unique history they’ve preserved, they are the 2012 honorees for Maoli Arts Month in May. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The House and Senate might vote Tuesday on a bill that would allow the Friends of the Library — the Big Friends — their affiliates and independent nonprofits like the volunteers from Aina Haina — the Little Friends — to hold book sales and have concession stands on state library property and maintain their own financial accounts.  Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will hold a series of public meetings next month to discuss Honolulu’s $5.1 billion rail-transit project. Pacific Business News.

Major construction on some of Waikiki's busiest streets will begin next month. The $5.7 million project is scheduled to begin on May 20, and is slated to last about 500 days. Hawaii News Now.

A misfired arrow closed an aging archery range in Waikiki. Now concerns over safety could keep it closed for good. KITV4.

Hawaii

Despite making across-the-board pay cuts in 2009 and freezing salaries in 2010, the University of Hawaii at Hilo is spending 61 percent more on executive pay than it did five years ago. Tribune-Herald.

Come November, voters in Hawaii County will revisit the 2 percent land fund, contemplate changes to public meeting notices and decide on other amendments to the county’s governing document. Tribune-Herald.

GASB 45 obligations came to the forefront of discussions on the county budget last month when Mayor Billy Kenoi announced he planned to postpone the payments for the second consecutive year in order to balance the county’s $365.3 million budget. West Hawaii Today.

A marine mammal center designed to treat injured Hawaiian monk seals is scheduled to break ground this summer on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

A three-year-old community medical center in Puna wants to set up an emergency room to serve the fast-growing Big Island district. Associated Press.

Maui

Lee Imada has been named managing editor of The Maui News and will supervise all phases of the news operation, it was announced today by Publisher Joe Bradley. Maui News.

When the Auwahi Wind project comes on line late this year, it will be "a building block for the future," Maui Electric Co. President Ed Reinhardt said Friday during the wind farm's Hawaiian blessing and groundbreaking ceremonies. Maui News.

A new community organization has been formed "in response to the need for another independent, credible grass-roots voice with the goal of sustainable economic viability within the context of historic preservation and cultural practices," according to the group's announcement. Maui News.

A Maui woman is about to set sail from the Marshall Islands to Tokyo. Her 3,000 mile journey is part of a research voyage to study marine pollution, including debris from Japan's tsunami. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Tests show toxins polluting Hanalei river mouth, bay. Garden Island.

Kauai County's Open Spaces Commission has recommended its top priorities for county property acquisitions. Garden Island.

Agriculture has become a tourist draw in Hawaii, which imports about 85 percent of its food but used to export almost everything it grew — tons of pineapples and sugar cane. Los Angeles Times.

Molokai

While time often seems to stand still here on Molokai, new technologies are becoming more and more prevalent in everyday life. Molokai Dispatch.

Improved Waikiki Beach greets Japanese 'Golden Week,' Honolulu sewer moratorium halts development, Oahu travel agent disappears with Arkansas band's money, Molokai group fights undersea cable, Kauai regulates ag solar, Hannemann stumps in Kona, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Beach users gave good reviews Thursday to the just-completed sand replenishment proj­ect that widened Waikiki Beach from the Duke Kahanamoku statue to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Star-Advertiser.

Riding on three months of strong momentum, Hawaii's tourism industry is already anticipating a healthy summer. Star-Advertiser.

A 27 percent gain in visitors from Japan last month bodes well for this weekend’s start of Golden Week, traditionally a high-volume period for Japa­nese tourists in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The official at the center of the General Services Administration scandal over a lavish Las Vegas conference was reprimanded in 2011 for appearing in a campaign ad for Sen. Daniel Ino­uye, Roll Call, a Washington, D.C., magazine, reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Legislature

State House and Senate negotiators were still working late Thursday to reach an agreement on the state budget, a stalemate that left dozens of bills in limbo ahead of tonight’s procedural deadline to complete work before the legislative session ends. Star-Advertiser.

Passage of the single-most important bill at the Hawaii Legislature is being held up by the single-most controversial bill before lawmakers this session. Civil Beat.

A measure that would bring most of Hawaii's 1,600 mainland-incarcerated prisoners back is nearing key deadlines at the Capitol. The trend is already starting. KHON2.

The state Legislature will be voting on Hawaiian language mandates in the coming week. Associated Press.

Legislators effectively killed a bill Thursday that would have extended the University of Hawaii's controversial exemption from the state procurement code, a move hailed by some as a victory for government fairness and transparency but which UH lamented as likely to increase construction costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers are poised to pass two bills to overhaul the state's charter school system. But the focus has centered more on what the proposed law says charter schools don't have to do than any new requirements or expectations. Civil Beat.

Selling or smoking the synthetic drug "spice" is now a felony in Hawaii. KHON2.

Laura Thielen

Civil Beat has obtained portions of an email exchange between members of the party's State Central Committee conducted between April 10 and April 13 — the latter date just four days before Laura Thielen announced that she would run in the primary without the party's blessing. Civil Beat.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union has its first woman president. Hawaii Public Radio.

About 9,000 U.S. Marines stationed on Okinawa will be moved to Hawaii, Guam and other locations in the Asia-Pacific under a U.S.-Japa­nese agreement announced Thursday. Associated Press.

Hawaii is one of only two states where consumers won’t see a piece of an estimated $1.3 billion in rebates from health insurers who spent more on administrative expenses and profits than allowed by the federal health care reform act, according to a new analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for April 27. Associated Press.

Oahu

The City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services has issued a moratorium on new sewer connections from Halawa to Pearl City. Hawaii News Now.

The state granted owners of the Hale‘iwa Farmers' Market a second extension to vacate the site where they've held the popular weekend event for three years. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilmember Ann Kobayashi has introduced a bill to amend the historic residential property tax exemption. Hawaii Reporter.

The plastic bag ban is still three years from starting, if Mayor Peter Carlisle approves it, but the movement toward biodegradable bags has already begun. Hawaii News Now.

Public housing getting modern renovations with private help. KITV4.

Nearly four decades since starting a renowned cookie empire, Wally Amos is poised to launch a company using the original recipe that made him Famous Amos. Star-Advertiser.

Officials at Southside High School in Fort Smith, Ark., have contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Justice after an Oahu travel agent told them via email he had lost $267,500 paid by the school for a summer trip to Waikiki. KITV4.

Hawaii

Mufi Hannemann

A U.S. representative’s job, congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann told Rotarians Thursday, is to advocate first for state residents. West Hawaii Today.

The site of the Big Island’s first geothermal power project may once again be put back to use. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Doppler radars will be shut down, one at a time, beginning in May for upgrades to a next-generation system that will allow for better weather forecasts. Tribune-Herald.

We’ve failed: Hawaii County’s air is the second worst, by county, in the country for annual particle pollution, the American Lung Association says. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The new hearing officer in the case challenging a University of Hawaii telescope project on Maui is also UH president M.R.C. Greenwood's personal attorney. Civil Beat.

Maui Electric Co. is installing new, "smart" power meters that will enable the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Associated Press.

Maui Electric Co. has begun installing new, "smart" power meters in Maui Meadows, enabling the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Maui News.

Judge Adrianne Heely

The state Senate confirmed Adrianne Heely on Wednesday as a District Family Court judge for Maui's 2nd Circuit Court. Maui News.

Adrianne Heely has been confirmed as a family court judge on Maui. Associated Press.

Maui Judge Joseph E. Cardoza today was named Chief Judge and Administrative Judge for the Second Circuit Court. Maui Now.

The long-awaited Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport hotel is set to open in June, a month earlier than previously announced. Maui News.

Kauai

After a few deferrals and various amendments, a bill to regulate solar farms on agricultural lands passed a final vote Wednesday by the Kaua‘i County Council, although some council members wanted more time for scrutiny. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution to encourage schools to adopt anti-bullying policies and regulations. Garden Island.

Reid Judson is suing Norberto Garcia and Kaua‘i County for alleged negligence in an officer-involved automobile crash. Garden Island.

Molokai

A high-voltage undersea transmission cable planned for Massachusetts has been killed by one of the nation’s major utilities because it would be a “high-risk” installation, too expensive to construct, with too many severe environmental impacts and too difficult to maintain. Molokai Dispatch.