Feds' $1.6B keeps Honolulu rail on track, Senate committee outlines UH Stevie Wonder problems, Hawaii County police accredited, union contracts trump ethics code, indictment released against Kauai HR director, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation courtesy photo

Honolulu's plans for a rail line gained new momentum Monday with an announcement by Hawaii's congressional delegation that the $5.26 billion train project has effectively secured $1.55 billion in federal funding. Star-Advertiser.

The Federal Transit Administration on Monday told leaders in Congress it will sign a $1.55 billion funding agreement for the Honolulu rail project, the third key hurdle cleared by the once-embattled system in less than three weeks. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation and the Federal Transit Administration will sign a full-funding grant agreement that will give Honolulu $1.55 billion in federal funds for the city’s elevated-rail project, city officials said Monday. Pacific Business News.

The Federal Transit Administration will award Honolulu's rail authority a $1.5 billion Full Funding Grant Agreement for Honolulu's $5.2 billion elevated steel on steel rail project. Hawaii Reporter.

The rail crosses another big hurdle.  The Federal Transit Administration has signed off on $1.55 billion in federal funding for the rail project. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu is a step closer to receiving more than $1.55 billion in federal funding for rail, but it's not a done deal yet. KHON2.

For the first time in nearly two decades, a Republican holds a leadership position in the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Computer problems are being blamed for causing an unexpected statewide shutdown of motor vehicle licensing offices Friday afternoon. KITV4.

The state Senate committee looking into the University of Hawaii and its athletics department spent only one hour discussing its findings at a briefing Monday at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

Five months after the University of Hawaii lost $200,000 in the failed Stevie Wonder fundraising concert and after more than 13 hours of hearings, a Senate committee investigating the debacle says there are still unanswered questions. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii state senators today issued a 32-page report that strongly criticized spendthrift and secretive practices at the University of Hawaii and called for close new monitoring of how the Board of Regents and President M.R.C. Greenwood run the institution. Hawaii Reporter.

A state Senate panel said Monday that the University of Hawaii could have avoided losing $200,000 in its failed attempt to hold an athletic department fundraiser if officials had performed due diligence on a company claiming to be Stevie Wonder's booking agent. Associated Press.

After two marathon briefings looking into the bungled Stevie Wonder concert. The Senate's special committee on accountability's chair announced its findings. Hawaii News Now.

The Senate Special Committee on Accountability released its report Monday resulting from the informational briefings that looked into the oversight, accountability, and transparency of the operational and financial management of the University of Hawaii, including but not limited to the University of Hawaii’s athletics program. KITV4.

Senate Special Committee on Accountability University of Hawaii Report can be found here.

A long-anticipated study on how to fix the state's student transportation program is done, but the Hawaii Department of Education isn't ready to release it to the public. Civil Beat.

With Oahu in the lead, Hawaii hotels held their own against other island and international destinations for the first three quarters of the year, according to a report to be released today by hotel consultancy Hospitality Advisors LLC. Star-Advertiser.

The destroyer named for a Pearl Harbor SEAL who gave his life for fellow commandos in Af­ghani­stan will pull into its new home port in Hawaii on Wednesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

Electricity from the state's largest wind energy project — Kawailoa Wind — has begun flowing into the Hawaiian Electric Co. grid on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

One of the largest tracts of undeveloped land on Oahu is being sold to the state for preservation as farmland, a nationally published report said. Star-Advertiser.

Gun sales are up across the nation including here in Hawaii. And as a result, people on Oahu have been waiting hours in line to get a gun permit. KHON2.

A man who testified that he grew marijuana to use in his practice of the Rastafarian religion could go to prison for 40 years for conspiring to grow more than 100 marijuana plants. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Union contracts trump the county ethics code, the county Board of Ethics said Monday in dismissing a complaint about United Public Workers employees attending events where union-endorsed candidates campaigned on county time and in county facilities. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Police Department has been awarded national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies Inc. Tribune-Herald.

A public official’s relationship with journalists may be prickly, but it doesn’t arise to an ethics violation if it’s not personal, the Board of Ethics decided Monday in unanimously dismissing a complaint against County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County will have to dust off an ordinance establishing a cultural advisory commission for Wednesday’s County Council meeting. Tribune-Herald.

The county Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium is getting a $2 million facelift, but contractors are running short on time. Tribune-Herald.

After overcoming a number of obstacles last year, Hilo’s Toys for Tots Motorcade appears to be a bust. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui Mayor’s Office will soon start accepting applications to fill anticipated vacancies on County Boards and Commissions for terms that are set to expire in 2013. Maui Now.

The native apapane Hawaiian honeycreeper was recently spotted at Fleming Arboretum at Pu'u Mahoe in Ulupalakua for the first time in the arboretum's 60-plus-year history. Maui News.

Kauai
The indictment against County Human Resources Manager Janine M.Z. Rapozo was released as public record Monday. Garden Island.

Ocean safety officials closed Hanalei Bay to swimming Monday afternoon due to shark sightings. Garden Island.

A new facility in the site of the former Kaua‘i Community College bookstore was unveiled Monday afternoon before an audience of KCC Chancellor Dr. Helen Cox, culinary arts department instructors, students and supporters. Garden Island.

Courts offer legal aid, gas prices drop, Kaui mayor fingered in gas theft, Honolulu mayor filling cabinet, Maui seeks waste-to-energy plant, hypnosis thefts in Chinatown, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

With the backing of Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald, courthouses across the state are setting aside space to help people who can't afford a lawyer prepare for their day in court. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii’s main solar lobby fights off attempts to scale back the state's energy tax credits, a national expert and advocate of solar energy says that Hawaii should get rid of the incentives altogether. Civil Beat.

A state Senate committee will announce the findings of its investigation into the University of Hawaii's operational and financial management. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers intend to stop doing all the work they do on their own dime, limiting their hours to what's contractually obligated, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Everything else that would normally get done won't on work-to-rule protest days, the first of which was last week at Campbell High School and a few other campuses around the state. Civil Beat.

Publishers of the free guides and brochures visitors pick up at Hawaii's airports may soon have to pay the state for the right to get their publications into visitors' hands. Star-Advertiser.

Federal scientists have developed new tsunami forecasting models that can accurately predict where a wave will hit, and where it will flood. They've also designed new buoys that could help the tsunami warning center fill the gaps in its net. So why hasn't Hawaii embraced the new technology? Civil Beat.

Prices at the pump have continued to mercifully decline as the Thanksgiving holiday nears. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Hawaii Civil Defense will conduct tests of five warning sirens around Oahu on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City and State lawmakers hold informational meeting over disaster planning. KITV4.

The process of establishing a new Honolulu city administration has begun for Mayor-elect Kirk Caldwell. KITV4.

Hawaiian Electric Co. says its interconnection facility inside the battery energy storage system warehouse at the Kahuku Wind Farm on Oahu's North Shore, which was destroyed by fire in August, will cost at least $8 million to rebuild and take about a year to complete. Pacific Business News.

The Italian parent company of one of the largest contractors working on the Hono­lulu rail project now has a credit rating just above junk-bond status, and officials with the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation want assurances that that won't affect the $5.26 billion project. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu motorists saw something Friday that they haven’t seen in nine months: Prices at a number of gas stations around Oahu dipped below $4 a gallon for the first time since February. Pacific Business News.

An 8-inch water main broke on Ahua Street between Kaihikapu and Mokumoa Streets in Salt Lake early Monday morning near Hawaii Self Storage, causing the road to buckle up. Hawaii News Now.

The Chinatown community is on alert after a new scam has swindled thousands of dollars worth of cash and jewelry from elderly women. Police are looking for three women whose scheme may involve hypnosis. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii Electric Light Co.'s recently launched search for developers to expand geothermal energy production on Hawaii island emphasizes the potential benefits of locating new production facilities on the west side of the island where population growth is the fastest. Star-Advertiser.

Geothermal companies are trying to line up potential sites for a new power plant before a bidding deadline early next year. Tribune-Herald.

Along with a new County Council leadership, there will be a new county clerk taking office next month. Big Island Now.

The sewer rehabilitation project along Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo has progressed to its second phase, leaving businesses that were impacted by the first phase breathing sighs of relief. Tribune-Herald.

Almost everything used in Ke Kula o Ehunuikaimalino’s cafeteria is washable, reusable, recyclable or compostable, said Clare Loprinzi, the school’s garden coordinator. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County is seeking bids for a company to convert the island's solid waste into energy in an effort to cut down on the amount of trash that ends up in the Central Maui Landfill in Puunene. Maui News.

Maui County isn’t waiting on the electric utility to issue a request for proposals for waste-to-energy projects. The county’s Department of Environmental Services issued its own RFP last week. Civil Beat.

A state Office of Planning official said that developers of two large retail centers and 250 affordable housing units in Kihei should have filed a motion with the state Land Use Commission to amend conditions placed on the parcel that was initially proposed as a light industrial park. Maui News.

A National Transportation Safety Board report on a December 2009 helicopter crash in Hana, Maui, in which a commercial pilot and a Federal Aviation Administration inspector were seriously injured, presents a frightening narrative of a routine safety exercise that turned into a life-threatening emergency. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

A warrant for the arrest of Kauai Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. on charges that he stole more than $5,000 of county gasoline in 2009 and 2010 has been submitted to two state judges on the Garden Isle who reportedly refused to sign the warrant until there is more evidence. Hawaii Reporter.

The personal attorney for Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. angrily denounced efforts by Police Chief Darryl Perry and outgoing Prosecutor Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho to charge the mayor for alleged theft of more than $5,000 of county gasoline. Hawaii Reporter.

People for the Preservation of Kaua‘i, one of the driving forces behind the fight against the Hawai‘i Superferry, has reformed with a new mission — to squash Act 55 in court. Garden Island.

DBEDT: Kaua‘i had strong 2nd quarter in 2012. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai residents put in their two cents for who they felt should become the new Honorary Mayor of Kaunakakai last Saturday, and elected Glenn Davis. Molokai Dispatch.

Honoring kupuna is part of Hawaiian culture, and on Molokai, there’s a special tradition to recognize those with exceptional aloha spirit. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kanemitsu Bakery, after having been closed for five months, will be open in time for Thanksgiving this year. Molokai Dispatch.

Porn industry looks to Hawaii in wake of condom law, unemployment hits 4-yr low, League of Women Voters seeks election investigation, apologies in UH tiff, rail project forgot wifi, Inouye takes fall, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tulsi Gabbard (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

She hasn't even been sworn in yet, but Congresswoman-Elect Tulsi Gabbard is already trying to get comfortable in Congress. Civil Beat.

Sen. Daniel K. Inouye sustained a minor cut to the back of his head following a fall at his home Thursday and was taken to the Bethesda Naval Hospital as a precautionary measure. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Daniel K. Inouye took a spill at his Maryland home Thursday morning, cutting his head and heading to the hospital as a precaution. Civil Beat.

Porn producers may set sights on Hawaii in wake of L.A. condom law. Los Angeles Times.

The League of Women Voters of Hawaii is calling on the Hawaii State Legislature to take steps to remedy problems in voting operations that surfaced in the 2012 elections. Hawaii Reporter.

In its fourth quarter 2012 economic report, the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism projected higher growth of visitor-related indicators and more optimistic growth of most other economic indicators in 2012. KITV4.

Hawaii's unemployment rate fell to 5.5 percent in October, the lowest level in nearly four years, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's diabetes rate soared 117.1 percent from 1995 to 2010, mirroring a disturbing nationwide trend, a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study shows. Star-Advertiser.

A lack of judgment, and UH personnel unwilling to take overall responsibility, are to blame for losses from the Stevie Wonder concert scam. An advisory task force group released those findings to the UH Board of Regents Thursday. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents expressed its support for President M.R.C. Greenwood Thursday night, saying they will "work together" after months of turmoil that began with the Stevie Wonder concert debacle. Star-Advertiser.

The Board of Regents and President Greenwood announced that their partnership to achieve ever higher standards of academic excellence throughout the UH system will continue and remains strong. Star-Advertiser.

After insulting the state’s political leaders and demanding $2 million from the University of Hawaii regents, today UH President M.R.C. Greenwood took it all back, said she was sorry and kept her job. Hawaii Reporter.

Ecotourism ends at Midway Atoll. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 16. Associated Press.

Oahu
State and Honolulu city lawmakers plan to meet today to assess the coordinated response to last month's tsunami warning and coastal evacuation. Star-Advertiser.

Officials with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation announced Thursday that the transit agency has only 27 more trenches left to dig for the archaeological survey work along the planned route of the elevated-rail mass-transit project. Pacific Business News.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation is budgeting nearly $86 million to buy 63 properties in the next fiscal year as part of an accelerating land acquisition program for the 20-mile rail line. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) Board is asking for more than $1.3 billion to spend in 2014 and yet with all that money there is one thing the city didn't think about, wifi for riders.Hawaii News Now.

Roughly 600 teachers, students, parents and community members flanked Fort Weaver Road near Campbell High School on Thursday to send Gov. Neil Abercrombie a message: "Negotiate, not mandate." Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council was looking a little different on Wednesday. KITV4.

Campbell High School teachers and students staged two demonstrations today to express their frustration with the state over stalled teacher contract negotiations. Hawaii Public Radio.

Community organizations continued the fight over the future of the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial on Thursday night. KHON2.

At Kaimuki High School, 558 photovoltaic panels harness energy from the sun. They were installed in May as part of the Department of Education's five-year plan to dramatically reduce its energy bill. Hawaii News Now.

A freak accident that killed a man who touched a streetlight will cost Honolulu taxpayers $550,000. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

U.S. DOT rejects Hawaiian Airlines Kona-Haneda request. West Hawaii Today.

The long-sought Kealakehe Regional Park could cost more than $85 million, Hawaii County officials and park planners revealed Thursday in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

A local resident who’s “passionate about keeping the pool open” has donated $30,000 to the Hilo YWCA to help keep the solar-heated, salt water swimming pool open through 2013. Tribune-Herald.

Members sought for Game Management Commission. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Public Works now has planning authorization to move ahead on the Laaloa Street extension. West Hawaii Today.

A controversial bill that severely restricts geothermal energy production drilling operations on the Big Island has passed the Hawaii County Council and is headed to Mayor Billy Kenoi’s desk for his signature. Pacific Business News.

After six years of testifying before the County Council, Kohala Councilwoman-elect Margaret Wille will soon take a seat on the other side of the dais. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Public school enrollment in Maui County grew by 1.6 percent to more than 21,000 students this school year as the impact of Kamehameha Schools Maui on the island student population diminishes, according to a state Department of Education official. Maui News.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood will be speaking from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday as part of an ongoing innovation series sponsored by the Maui Economic Development Board. Maui News.

Kauai

A 5th Circuit grand jury on Wednesday indicted a county department head on charges relating to the alleged abuse of a county gas credit card, according to a county news release issued Thursday. Garden Island.

A Kauai grand jury has indicted the county’s Human Resources Manager Janine Rapozo on charges relating to alleged misuse of a county gas credit card. Star-Advertiser.

Workers’ Compensation awarded in county case. Garden Island.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

State news roundup for Nov. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

Kurt Matsumoto

Lanai

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

Hawaii Public Land Development Corp. new rules aired, DLNR in fish fight, Elections Commission to mull ballot problems, state pension fund hits record, Kauai Hanalei development meets resistance, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Upolu Point (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Public Land Development Corp. heard another torrent of criticism Tuesday as it attempts to adopt administrative rules that would allow the new agency to launch projects. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing Tuesday to determine administrative rules for the Public Land Development Corporation turned into a call for repeal, as an overflow crowd descended upon a tiny board room at the Department of Land and Natural Resources. KITV4.

The Public Land Development Corporation conducted a public hearing yesterday following a contentious round of state-wide hearings in August. Hawaii Public Radio.

Nearly four hours of public testimony was received today at a statewide hearing on Oahu to discuss proposed administrative rules for the Public Land Development Corporation. Maui Now.

The Attorney General’s office late Tuesday filed a brief response to a lawsuit brought against DLNR last month asking that a complaint filed by environmental groups, divers and fishermen that it failed to follow the Hawaii Environmental Policy Act be dismissed. West Hawaii Today.

Senate Minority Leader Sam Slom, R-Hawaii Kai-Diamond Head, is the only Republican in the 25-member state Senate. But Democrats want him to feel the love. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Elections Commission will meet next month to discuss ballot problems on election day that led to long lines and frustrated voters across Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

It took five years, but assets in the state's largest pension fund have returned to record levels. Star-Advertiser.

New rules issued by the Hawaii Department of Taxation last week aimed at clarifying how solar tax credits should be calculated are pitting solar companies against each other, angering environmental groups and forcing legislative leaders to grapple with how to manage an increasingly hostile debate this upcoming legislative session. Civil Beat.

A lawyer for University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood sent the UH Regents a demand letter last month, saying she had been "severely defamed" after the Stevie Wonder blunder and would be willing to leave the university for a payment of $2 million, a demand her lawyer has since withdrawn. Hawaii News Now.

In a letter that prompted discussions by the Board of Regents on the future of University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood, her attorney asked the regents for a $2 million settlement — and offered text messages and a recording that he said showed inappropriate political pressure from the governor and top lawmakers to reinstate former athletic director Jim Donovan. Star-Advertiser.

A legal letter claims Greenwood blew the whistle on threats to the school. KITV4.

Members of two special University of Hawaii committees have been advised they must file personal financial disclosures with the State Ethics Commission as the result of amendments to the state ethics code passed by the Legislature earlier this year. Civil Beat.

State roundup for November 14. Associated Press

Oahu

A broken pipe in Manoa Tuesday caused an estimated 1,275 gallons of untreated wastewater into a storm drain which leads to the Ala Wai canal, according to state health officials and city environmental officials. KITV4.

A new park play ground on Oahu's North Shore that was supposed to be opened by now remains off limits. KHON2.

Unite Here Local 5 workers rallied in front of the Ilikai Hotel on Tuesday, protesting the latest contract offer from management and possible conversion of the property's remaining hotel rooms into condominiums. Star-Advertiser.

Charles E. "Chuck" Frankel, a passionate newsman who was devoted to the Hono­lulu Star-Bulletin, died Tuesday at age 84 after suffering an aneurysm. Star-Advertiser.

State Civil Defense officials will conduct siren maintenance testing at several locations on Oahu on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The Pacific International Space Center for Exploration Systems on Tuesday received a $2.3 million boost in funding officials hope will make the state agency more appealing to NASA and other space agencies. West Hawaii Today.

NRA president speaks in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

The Queen Liliuokalani Trust will be going out for a new environmental impact statement, likely early next year, its Vice President, LeeAnn Crabbe, said. West Hawaii Today.

Man convicted in axis deer case feels unjustly targeted. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The University of Hawaii announced Tuesday the state has reaffirmed its support for the school to build the world’s largest solar optical telescope on Maui’s Hale­akala. Star-Advertiser.

Lahaina Bypass Now, a group formed in March 2006 to kick-start the long-awaited highway, will dissolve at the end of this year because it has accomplished what it set out to do. Maui News.

About $300,000 of volunteer work and donations were unveiled today when the Lahaina Public Library reopened its doors after a three-month renovation made possible by community organizations and volunteers. Maui News.

The state is bringing back a popular volunteer program in which people help educate visitors and residents about South Maui's fragile and almost pristine Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, which was established in 1973. Maui News.

Kauai

Hanalei Plantation Resort developers Ohana Real Estate Investors were met with strong resistance from a standing-room-only crowd Tuesday night as hundreds of community members crowded into Hanalei School to voice their opinion on the proposed development. Garden Island.

Hundreds Pack School Cafeteria to Protest Hanalei Ridge Development. Civil Beat.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission’s Subdivision Committee took about an hour to decide that the fate of a 2,029-acre proposed development across from Kealia Beach wouldn’t be decided Tuesday. The three-member committee reluctantly pushed the decision back another month. Garden Island.

Brennecke’s Beach Broiler has paid a fine of more than $47,000 to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for failing to close two large capacity cesspools in Po‘ipu, the agency announced Tuesday. Garden Island.

Lanai

Billionaire Larry Ellison has tapped a local resort industry executive to run the day to day business operations on Lanai. Hawaii News Now.

Billionaire Larry Ellison has tapped a Lanai native who once was in charge of the two hotels there to be the top executive on the island Ellison bought in June. Star-Advertiser.

It was quite telling that the Oracle Corp. CEO decided to hire Lanai native and Hawaii hotel industry veteran Kurt Matsumoto to oversee the island's business operations, which include the two Four Seasons resorts, the economic drivers of the Pineapple Island. Pacific Business News.

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

Honolulu homeless (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scientists track spike in Pacific quakes. Hawaii News Now.

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

State roundup for November 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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


Maui

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

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

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

Molokai

New Address System Helps Emergency Response. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii veterans honored, F-22 Raptors powering up, state DLNR breaks law by promoting ballot measure, Maui council selects chairman, public funding a win for Hawaii County Council candidates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl

Veterans Day is a federal, state, city and county holiday.  Government offices on each level will be closed.  Post offices, most banks and state libraries will be closed.  There will also be no mail delivery. KITV4.

Hawaii Air National Guard officials say the Hawaii squadrons that fly F-22 fighter jets have achieved a status that will allow them deploy. Associated Press.

Veterans Day ceremony at Punchbowl honors service members who fought for our freedom. KHON2.

Sunday, after months of construction and years of preparation, Vietnam battle maps were unveiled during the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl's annual Veterans Day ceremony — 50 years after what the U.S. government considers the official start of the war. Star-Advertiser.

The cemetery and memorial at Punchbowl cover a little more than 100 acres and is the final resting place for somewhere around 40,000 veterans. Arlington, by comparison, is more than 600 acres of winding roads and footpaths with some 300,000 burial plots. Civil Beat.

The mission to Afghanistan for Hawaii infantry Marines is gone, and so are the 50 to 85 Afghan role players who once populated a $42 million "infantry immersion trainer," a military version of a Hollywood set with fake buildings, markets, red poppies, barking dogs, "avatar" people projected on walls and 20 smell generators pumping out the aroma of everything from fresh-baked bread to decomposing bodies. Star-Advertiser.

A Schofield Barracks soldier died in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, on Friday, the Department of Defense said. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources violated state law by advocating passage of a constitutional amendment on Tuesday’s general election ballot, Acting Attorney General Russell Suzuki said. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii’s fast-growing solar photovoltaic industry may be slowing down just a bit, thanks to changes to the state’s solar energy tax credit. Pacific Business News.

Statewide hotel occupancy fell slightly in September, but the industry is still seeing gains over recent years, with revenue per available room up for the 31st consecutive month. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Election officials have confirmed 24 out of 140 polling places on the island of Oahu ran out of paper ballots during the General Election on Tuesday, November 6. (See the list here - BALLOT INVENTORY ISSUES BY POLLING PLACE). Hawaii Reporter.

Scott Nago, Chief Election Officer, has released a public statement on Tuesday’s ballot shortages. Hawaii Independent.

Local radio personality and concert promoter Tom Moffatt has announced he’ll screen Elvis Presley’s Aloha from Hawai`i at the Blaisdell Arena on its 40th anniversary. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Hawaii State Department of Health has fined Globeteck Group Inc. $10,000 for asbestos regulation violations, officials said Friday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

When the new Hawaii County Council is sworn in at noon Dec. 3, it will mark a milestone for the comprehensive public funding campaign pilot program. A majority of the incoming council members have benefited from public campaign financing. Tribune-Herald.

Planning is under way for the long-sought Kealakehe Regional Park, and Hawaii County and project consultant Kimura International are going to the community to develop a final plan for the area. West Hawaii Today.

The number of tropical fish taken from West Hawaii’s waters in 2011 was as much as double the amount of fish taken from the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest reef, according to a recent study. West Hawaii Today.

Two recently launched websites are promising to provide visitors unprecedented perspectives on the health of coral reefs around Hawaii Island. Associated Press.

Maui

Less than a week after the general election, Maui County Council members have organized their leadership for the 2013-14 term, choosing Gladys Coelho Baisa as chairwoman and Bob Carroll as vice chairman. Maui News.

The Maui Council will operate under new leadership when the new council terms take effect on January 2, 2013. Maui Now.

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

Dry weather has left Upcountry reservoirs nearly dry, forcing the county Department of Water Supply to drastically reduce production at the Olinda Water Treatment Facility this week, according to an announcement. Maui News.

Kauai
As the Kaua‘i County Council gears up for the upcoming state Legislature, issues such a prescription drugs, labeling of genetically modified foods, Transient Accommodation Tax and a few more resurface. Garden Island.

One of the greatest challenges facing the National Tropical Botanical Garden in Kalaheo is the need for increased social capital. Garden Island.

Hawaii to limit solar tax breaks, indictments in UH 'Wonder blunder,' NFL football combine coming, grounded vessel damaging coral, some Big Island cattle have STD, Maui ends Main Street grant, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

solar panels on Honolulu building

The state tax department is set to come out with new rules that would limit the number of tax credits solar companies can claim on a solar array. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii officials applauded the federal fraud prosecution of two mainland men charged in the botched Stevie Wonder concert, but it wasn't clear whether any of the $200,000 that UH lost will be recovered. Star-Advertiser.

Sean Barriero, one of two men accused of scamming the University of Hawaii out of $200,000, pleaded guilty in federal court today and will testify against co-defendant Marc Hubbard. Hawaii Reporter.

North Carolina resident Marc Hubbard and Miami resident Sean Barriero have been indicted on federal charges in connection to the botched Stevie Wonder concert at University of Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The National Football League announced Thursday that it will have a “Super Regional Combine” in Honolulu in January 2013, just days before the annual Pro Bowl game at Aloha Stadium. Pacific Business News.

The Public Land Development Corp. Schedules New Public Hearing But Will Anyone Be Able To Go? Civil Beat.

For Hawaii Governors, Second Acts Are Tough. Civil Beat.

A final review of the public files shows that candidate and noncandidate committees spent more than $13.8 million total airing political TV ads on local airwaves this election season. Civil Beat.

Hawaii fishermen and seafood lovers may have a new reason to heed the long-standing warnings about the serious impacts of climate change, according to federal scientists in Honolulu. The latest research shows global warming and ocean acidification will have a significant effect on large pelagics, such as tuna and swordfish, over the 21st century. Civil Beat.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. tripled its profit in the third quarter, primarily due to the timing of a bulk sugar shipment by subsidiary Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for November 9. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

City Councilman-elect Joey Manahan, who in August won the election to succeed outgoing member Romy Cachola, could take office next week instead of Jan. 2, when Council terms officially begin. Star-Advertiser.

The annual construction budget for the Honolulu rail project would peak at $1.34 billion in the 2014 fiscal year under a new spending plan given preliminary approval Thursday by a committee of the Hono­lulu Authority for Rapid Transportation. Star-Advertiser.

Another human bone has been found at the site of the rail project. But rail officials don't expect it will cause any further delays. KHON2.

Teachers at Campbell High School will picket and work only the hours their contract requires Thursday to protest the lack of progress in getting an agreement. Star-Advertiser.

A vessel aground in Kaneohe Bay has already done considerable damage to a portion of the barrier reef about a half-mile from shore, according to officials with the conservation group the Nature Conservancy. Star-Advertiser.

Two former students are suing Damien Memorial School and the Catholic Church of Hawaii.  They claim the school covered up tortuous sex abuse by a longtime teacher three decades ago. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Eight Big Island cattle ranches are under a quarantine, following an outbreak of a bovine venereal disease. West Hawaii Today.

Decision delays further stall Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

State Department of Human Services officials confirmed Thursday a Kona caregiver’s care home certification was revoked in September following the death of an 82-year-old patient, but declined to provide further details. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo’s College of Pharmacy is currently undergoing an in-depth self assessment of its Doctor of Pharmacy program. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County officials have terminated the remainder of a grant with the embattled Wailuku Main Street Association, following repeated warning letters seeking compliance with an ongoing probe of the nonprofit's operations. Maui News.

A new faculty member at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College is being credited with helping in the development of software that supports the Hawaiian language. Maui Now.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle lost all of Maui County's 35 precincts, including tiny Kalaupapa, on Tuesday as Democratic Congresswoman Mazie Hirono rolled on to win the seat being vacated by Sen. Daniel Akaka. Maui News.

Kauai
County officials are inviting members of the public to weigh in on the county’s budget priorities for the next fiscal year. Garden Island.

Kauai County Council advanced a legislative package opposing the Public Land Development Corp. in the face of opposition from Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. Garden Island.

Tsutsui remains Senate president, Hawaii ballot shortages widespread, Inouye defends UH president, HECO posts profit, Maui council keeps 2-year terms, Hawaii County Council gets 6 newbies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

State Sen. Shan S. Tsutsui from Maui has been re-elected president of the state Senate. Maui News.

Shaun Tsutsui

A major election-day snafu led to a ballot shortage across Oahu that has some calling for an investigation. KHON2.

State elections officials acknowledged Wednesday that they failed to order enough paper ballots for Oahu, causing long waits for a turn at electronic voting machines and leading many people to walk away in frustration without casting a vote. Associated Press.

The state Office of Elections will change how it calculates the number of ballots needed at individual polling places and consider keeping reserve ballots on hand at precincts after an Election Day failure that had 70 polling places on Oahu running short or running out of paper ballots and hundreds of frustrated voters waiting hours to vote. Star-Advertiser.

The State Office of Election said at least 23 Oahu polling places ran out of paper ballots. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Chief Election Officer Scott Nago said Wednesday that the state did not give precincts enough paper ballots on Election Day because of an error in the formula used to determine the number of ballots. KITV4.

Scott Nago (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hundreds of voters on O’ahu were delayed on Election Night because a number of polling stations ran out of ballots. Hawaii Public Radio.

One thing is perfectly clear: Hawaii remains just about the bluest of the blue states, despite decades of talk that a GOP resurgence is just around the next electoral corner. Civil Beat.

Four more years in office potentially means more visits home to Hawaii for the First Family. Most of the reaction to their trips is positive, and many are hoping the President's next term will help open even more doors to the Asia-Pacific market. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono's landslide victory over former Gov. Linda Lingle for U.S. Senate was built on a coordinated get-out-the-vote campaign by Democrats that exceeded expectations.Star-Advertiser.

Republican Senate candidate Linda Lingle, a two-term governor, carried just one of Hawaii's 51 state House districts, while GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney failed to do even that, a Civil Beat analysis of general election results shows. Civil Beat.

After trouncing former Gov. Linda Lingle, Mazie Hirono is embracing her standing as the state’s first woman — and the nation’s first Asian-American woman — to serve as senator. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s powerful Senior Senator Daniel Inouye, D-Hawaii, showed he still has control of state politics. Hawaii Reporter.

Election Day 2012 was a big win for the Pacific Resource Partnership and its membership of unionized carpenters and contractors. Civil Beat.

As the University of Hawaii regents held their third closed-door meeting on the future employment of UH President M.R.C. Greenwood, Hawaii's senior senator is expressing support for the embattled leader. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents has approved the deal that removed Jim Donovan as UH athletic director and created a new communications position in the office of Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii Intercollegiate Athletics Office lacks proper controls for handling cash and ticketing to certain events and activities, an internal audit has found. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. reported a third-quarter profit of $47.7 million, or 49 cents per diluted share, compared to a profit of $48.4 million or 50 cents per diluted share, for the same quarter in 2011. Pacific Business News.

Oahu
From the city standpoint, the election of Kirk Caldwell as Honolulu’s next mayor means that the rail transit project is back on track ­— never mind the federal and state lawsuits holding it up. Pacific Business News.

Support for the city of Honolulu's controversial $5.3 billion rail project has grown since voters first agreed to build a steel-on-steel transit system in November 2008. KITV4.

The State Transportation Department unveiled new plans Wednesday night to transform the section of roadway, between Middle Street and Pensacola. KHON2.

Former city Managing Director Kirk Caldwell beat former Gov. Ben Cayetano in 24 of 35 House districts on his way to winning the mayor's seat Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

An influx of newcomers is giving the Hawaii County Council an unusual opportunity to have all nine elected members meet behind closed doors to choose a new chairman and vice chairman. West Hawaii Today.

If there’s a lesson learned from Tuesday’s mayoral election, it may be that money goes a long way in politics, but it’s not everything. Tribune-Herald.

Kenoi strong in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

There still exists a split between East and West Hawaii, if votes from the mayor’s race are any indication. Tribune-Herald.

Work on the long-awaited Hawaii Community College at Palamanui campus is expected to begin next year with the hope of opening to West Hawaii students in autumn 2014. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County voters rejected four-year terms for council members, keeping the two-year term status quo. But voters approved all 10 other proposed amendments to the Maui County Charter. Maui News.

Councilmember-elect Don Guzman is among three new faces that will represent Maui after winning respective races in last night’s general election. Maui Now.

Maui Democrat Kaniela Ing unseated Republican incumbent George Fontaine to win the state House seat representing South Maui in Tuesday's general election, pulling in 61 percent of votes in the hotly contested race. Maui News.

Kauai

The latest development in the Kapaia Swinging Bridge project brings its price tag right back to its original estimate of seven figures, as federal funds are being courted. Garden Island.

Voters and election volunteers said Tuesday’s general election went smoothly, with large turnouts and short lines, if any at all. Garden Island.

Alaska Airlines launched the inaugural direct flight from Lihu‘e to Portland, Ore. Garden Island.