Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie's State of the State: Raise the minimum wage to $8.75, pay down unfunded liabilities, pensions. That and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie 2013 State of the State address

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday condemned the "virus of absolutism" that he said infects politics, and appealed to state lawmakers to set strident voices aside and take action on early childhood education, renewable energy, economic diversification and the state's debt. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's third State of the State address was, as many such addresses are in Hawaii, all about the five E's: energy, education, employees, the economy and the environment. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday used his state-of-the-state speech to outline some of the economic initiatives he’s pushing this legislative session, among them a $1.50-per-hour increase to Hawaii’s minimum wage starting next year. Pacific Business News.

If Hawaii’s Governor Neil Abercrombie gets his way, the state would add about $1 billion in new and reclaimed programs and personnel in 2014 and 2015. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today unveiled a plan to spend $100 million dollars next year to pay down future obligations to state workers and retirees. Hawaii News Now.

Unfunded liabilities took center stage this morning as Gov. Neil Abercrombie gave his third State of the State address. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie says the state budget is his top priority for this coming year, in addition to energy and education. Associated Press.

The state’s Chief Executive delivered his annual State of the State address to a joint session of the legislature today.   As HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports … the Governor is proposing a long list of initiatives but provided little in terms of how to pay for them. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, during his State at the State address Tuesday, highlighted the state’s better financial position and many private and public initiatives, while criticizing the opposition to the Public Lands Development Corporation’s lack of aloha. Garden Island.

The verbatim text of the Governor’s 2013 State of the State Address. Hawaii Independent.

An increase in the minimum wage in Hawaii to $8.75 an hour from $7.25 would be the first since 2006 when it rose by 50 cents. In his State of the State address Tuesday, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said he will propose a bill to increase the wage starting in January 2014. Star-Advertiser.

One of the future plans Governor Abercrombie outlined in his State of the State address this morning is a proposal to increase minimum wage. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's minimum wage has not gone up in more than six years. Gov. Abercrombie wants to change that. It was just one of the plans he outlined Tuesday morning in his State of the State address. KHON2.

Hawaii led the nation four decades ago when it became one of the first states to pass a lobbying law and create an Ethics Commission to administer it. But the law has been stuck in time. Efforts to substantially update it or strengthen it have failed year after year. Civil Beat.

A proposed bill that would make helmets mandatory for kids and limit liability in skateboard parks has quickly moved through the Legislature, passing first reading Friday and referred to three committees Tuesday. Garden Island.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says her new post as a vice chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee will help raise Hawaii's profile on the national political landscape. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii auto sales rose last year by the highest margin on record as the industry recovered from the economic downturn that drove it to hit bottom in 2009. Star-Advertiser.

As an elected official, Rep. Karen Awana knows the rules. Why she's choosing not to play by them is another question. Civil Beat.

Oahu

There were 57 “move over” traffic citations issued against motorists during the first four months a new law was in effect — August through November, the Honolulu Police Department said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

It’s been a year and a half since state regulators ordered Hawaiian Electric Co. to issue a request for proposals for major energy projects that would deliver power to Oahu. Civil Beat.

An oft-repeated message employers delivered to people looking for work Tuesday at a Job Quest fair at Blaisdell Center was to "improve your skill set." Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has committed $3.5 million for an agricultural park in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced in his State of the State speech that he wants to re-open the Kulani Correctional Facility on the Big Island by July 1, 2014. Residents had a chance to offer their opinions on Tuesday night at a public meeting in Hilo. Hawaii News Now.

Queries about establishing a pu`uhonua, or place of refuge, were among the topics discussed today during the first of two public meetings being held on the proposed reopening of the Kulani Correctional Facility. Big Island Now.

Maui

During calendar year 2012 the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development issued more than $5.1 million dollars in grant monies to various local organizations. Hawaii Reporter.

Mauians attending the second inauguration of President Barack Obama on Monday endured the chill of winter, to which they are unaccustomed, but were warmed by the words of the American president born in the islands. Maui News.

A time capsule dating back more than 50 years was discovered this morning in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Army is asking the public to comment on its plans to study marine life near Makua Valley where commanders want to resume live-fire training. Garden Island.

Hawaii bands entertain at Obama inauguration, Abercrombie's State of the State address at 10 a.m. today, Hawaii Island newspapers subpoenaed in political lawsuit, Honolulu newspaper owner buys Kauai daily, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sens. Schatz, Hirono at Obama inauguration, courtesy photo

Two Hawaii school bands — from Kamehameha and Punahou — marched in the presidential inaugural parade down Pennsylvania Avenue on Monday in a historic display that gave hundreds of thousands of attendees from around the world a little taste of the sights and sounds of President Barack Obama's birthplace. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie will deliver his State of the State address at the Capitol building at 10 a.m. on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

HPR-1 will carry Governor Abercrombie's  complete State of the State address on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Hawaii Public Radio.

Keeping tabs on who is trying to influence public policy in Hawaii and how they are going about it is difficult in Hawaii. Unlike many other states, Hawaii requires very little information from those who lobby as well as those who get lobbied. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers have begun this year’s Legislature with a pile of bills targeting biotech industries that produce genetically modified organisms, with measures ranging from mandatory labeling to a total ban of such products in Hawai‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutusi will head a delegation of more than 40 business executives to the Philippines. Maui Now.

Rep. Karen Awana

Outstanding fines didn’t prevent state Rep. Karen Awana from scoring a top leadership position in the House this session. The four-term lawmaker owes the Campaign Spending Commission $6,800 for failing to keep records and filing false reports dating back to 2008. Civil Beat.

Marijuana use on company time fell in Hawaii last year, but it is still the drug that turns up most often in workplace drug testing. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says after meeting with the governor twice, he intends to resume work on the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial's environmental impact statement. KITV4.

State wildlife officials are trying to preserve an area on Oahu critical to groundwater protection where four native plant species are making their last stand. Star-Advertiser.

It's taken five years to get to the point of breaking ground on what will be known as Halekauwila Place. It needed state land, a private developer and the Hawaii Housing Finance Corporation to finally launch an affordable housing project in Kakaako for singles and families. KITV4.

GUIDED by a long piece of string on the ground and a man with a bullhorn, hundreds of people — residents and visitors, young and old — stood shoulder to shoulder in Kapiolani Park on Monday in an attempt to form the world's largest human peace sign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The lawyer for a county elections official who was fired and later reinstated has subpoenaed the Tribune-Herald, seeking the identities of six individuals who posted online comments regarding stories about the turmoil surrounding the 2012 elections. Tribune-Herald.

The cost of not paying property taxes on time could be getting lower. The Hawaii County Council’s Finance Committee will discuss a bill today that would cut the penalty for late payment in half, from 10 percent to 5 percent. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is still mulling whether to expand its hybrid vehicle fleet after putting five new cars on the road last year. Tribune-Herald.

Kaiser Permanente employees and their families pitched in at three sites around Hawaii Island as part of the national day of volunteering Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa spent the weekend in Washington DC, as a participant in the US Conference of Mayors. Maui Now.

After the graduation Friday of 20 members of the Maui Police Department's first Crisis Intervention Team, officers said they're more equipped to respond to emergencies. Maui News.

Organizers of the inaugural Aloha Writers Conference - which is set to wrap up today in Kapalua - say they're cautious of the pitfalls suffered by the event's predecessor, and instead want to maintain a grass-roots conference that can help position Maui as "a literary jewel of the Pacific." Maui News.

Kauai

Oahu Publications Inc., publisher of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, has acquired The Garden Island newspaper from Lee Enterprises, the companies announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Publications, Inc. and Kauai Publishing Co. announced today that OPI has purchased The Garden Island newspaper from Lee Enterprises, of Davenport, Iowa. The expected closing date is February 11, 2013. Garden Island.

Federal prosecutors have leveled more accusations against retired car dealer James Pflue­ger, who faces trial next month on conspiracy and tax evasion charges. Star-Advertiser.

A large crowd circulated through the Kukui Grove Center Monday during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration of Peace, sponsored by the Interfaith Roundtable of Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Road slated for Inouye honor, Hawaii cuts cash assistance, Molokai mulls waste-to-energy plant, House speaker wants legal marijuana, Zuckerman buys pricey Honolulu condos, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Saddle Road, Hawaii Island (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

State Sen. Malama Solomon, a Democrat whose district covers the north side of Hawaii Island from Kona to Hilo, has sponsored a bill renaming Saddle Road the “Daniel K. Inouye Legacy Highway.” West Hawaii Today.

The state of Hawaii is cutting financial assistance payments it provides to more than 5,500 people. Associated Press.

Even with news last week that Hawaii's unemployment rate dropped to 5.2 percent in December, its lowest since October 2008, the state is still a year or more away from regaining all the jobs lost during the recent recession. Star-Advertiser.

The Native Hawaiian Roll Commission hosted the Huli-a-Mahi celebration Sunday at Iolani Palace, said its chairman, former Gov. John Waihee. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiians honored Queen Lili'uokalani at Iolani Palace on Sunday. It's been 120 years since the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom. KITV4.

The newly designated speaker of the state House of Representatives today introduced a bill that would legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Big Island Now.

State Reps. Cynthia Thielen and Mele Carroll want to limit Hawaii’s power to develop public lands. Associated Press.

Silversword

Scientists say the outlook is bleak for a rare Maui plant if current climate change trends continue. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s only state taxpayer-supported University, the University of Hawaii, increased tuition by 108 percent from 2006 to 2012, and over the next five years, tuition will rise again by 33 percent. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Beverage Hui Opposes Soda Tax. Civil Beat.

It has been less than a month since U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz took office, and while he is still in temporary offices, he says he has settled in and is working to tackle big economic challenges facing the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Oahu taxpayers will pick up a portion of the tab for President Barack Obama's visit to Hawaii over the Christmas and New Years holidays, specifically for police and ambulance escorts. Hawaii Reporter.

Mark Zuckerman, The world’s youngest billionaire, chairman and CEO of Facebook Inc. (Nasdaq: FB), is buying several multi-million-dollar units in a 23-story ultra-luxury condominium under development called ONE Ala Moana, according to a source. Pacific Business News.

The city's exclusive vendor for handling police-initiated vehicle tows on Oahu could be evicted from the Kapolei lot serving as its headquarters because the company owes back rent dating to March and has failed to correct solid waste-related violations at the property, according to a lawsuit filed by the property owner. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to extend Kuakini Street across Lanakila Avenue to join with Keola Street could become a reality this summer. KHON2.

The findings in a federal report on the fireworks explosion that killed five men at a Waikele storage bunker in April 2011 raise concerns not just about a lack of federal rules and guidelines about the disposal of unused fireworks, but about inadequate oversight of employee safety procedures taken by large-scale contractors in general. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Citations for the use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving on Big Island roads almost doubled in 2012 over the previous year. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

One of the unsuccessful applicants for the Central Maui state Senate seat vacated by Shan Tsutsui has filed a complaint with the state Democratic Party chairman about the process to name a successor, assailing the process as "blatant arrogance" and unfair. Maui News.

Kauai

A revamped two-dimensional look at how a tsunami would flood the Hawaiian islands is about to change it all, and with it, a rise in home insurance rates could be looming in the horizon. Garden Island.

Molokai

Aurora Renewable Energy, Inc. has proposed the first combined waste-to-energy/waste-to-product plant to the residents of Molokai as a means of becoming energy independent. Molokai Dispatch.

As the state continues toward its goal of 70 percent clean energy by 2030, Molokai is coming to the forefront of the renewable energy discussion. Hawaii Public Radio.

120th anniversary of overthrow overlooked by Hawaii media, Oracle's Ellison buys an airline for his Hawaiian Island, Abercrombie open to repeal of PLDC, unemployment drops, more news from all the islands

King Kamehameha statue (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

One hundred and twenty years ago today, the Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that he would consider a repeal of the Public Land Development Corp. if the state Legislature is unable to adjust the controversial law to satisfy public objections. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants the Legislature to repair flaws in the Public Land Development Corporation or find another way to shore up state facilities and generate revenue for natural resources. Civil Beat.

On the first day following the opening of the 2013 Legislature, the Senate introduced a bill — passed at first reading — to repeal the controversial Public Land Development Corporation. In the House of Representatives, a bill to repeal PLDC, crafted by three Big Island representatives, was pending introduction. Garden Island.

For the state Legislature, 2013 might be the year of the repeal. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii state Rep. Karl Rhoads wants a tighter grip on firearm ammunition and has introduced a bill to require people who are buying bullets to prove that they're licensed gun owners. KITV4.

A gain of nearly 12,000 jobs in 2012 helped push Hawaii's unemployment rate to 5.2 percent by year's end, the lowest level in more than four years, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaiian concept of pono — to be moral, truthful and just — set the tone at the annual Red Mass Thursday, held by the Catholic Diocese of Hono­lulu to offer special prayers of guidance to government leaders at the start of each legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

Together, the demonstrations both inside the cathedral and outside represented the ongoing battle between church and state, between those who believe the two should forever be separate and those who argue they are eternally intertwined. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the only state in the nation with an average gas price above $4. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Gas Gets Green Light From Feds To Begin LNG Shipments. Civil Beat.

The latest round of talks on a new contract for teachers ended Thursday afternoon without a deal. KHON2.

State Sen. Jill Tokuda, head of the Senate’s Committee on Education,will hold a “Twitter Town Hall” from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, on the creation of Hawaii’s Keiki First Steps Program. Big Island Now.

Hawai’i’s Senior U-S Senator is nearing the end of a week-long visit home before heading back to Washington DC. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

State Senators were stunned on Thursday when University of Hawaii officials admitted during a Ways and Means hearing that some $200,000 went missing over a 7-year period, but was recovered from an "inactive account" when the University installed new software and discovered the funds. Hawaii Reporter.

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board on Thursday unanimously voted in favor of new national safety recommendations for fireworks disposal jobs in response to the explosion that killed five workers handling confiscated fireworks in a Waikele bunker two years ago. Civil Beat.

An attempt on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to break the unofficial world record for the largest human peace sign is just the start of a worldwide movement for peace, said Eric Butler, founder of World Peace Plan, the group organizing the Hono­lulu event. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Engineers working for the state Department of Transportation say that plans for a traffic circle at one of the most dangerous intersections in the state will prevent accidents and could potentially save lives. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo shoppers and retailers had mostly positive things to say on the first day the county’s new plastic bag ban took effect Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza approved Wednesday an agreement between Public Access Trails Hawaii and the state of Hawaii to join forces in ongoing litigation to reopen the Haleakala Trail to hikers. Maui News.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management today announced the availability of the January 2013 US EPA/Department of Health Consent Decree Wastewater Quarterly Report. Maui Now.

Paia has been named one of the "Top Ten Happiest Seaside Towns in America" by Coastal Living Magazine and could win top honors with help from the public. Maui News.

Kauai

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. holiday the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge will waive its entrance fee Sunday. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai Land Trust has received the deed to a 5-mile stretch of remote and environmentally sensitive coastline along the rugged north shore of Molokai. Tribune-Herald.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire who bought 97 percent of the island of Lanai in June, is adding small interisland airline Island Air to his Hawaii collection. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature opens with leadership changes, protests, tax concerns, Honolulu mayor wants rail tax money, Hawaii County mayor wants state parks, plastic bag ban begins, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Senate opening day, courtesy Senate Majority Office

The Hawaii Legislature opened its 2013 session at the Capitol in Honolulu on Wednesday with speeches from new leadership and music and dance from local entertainers. Pacific Business News.

Senators and representatives were sworn in and new leadership was chosen in both houses Wednesday as the 2013 Hawaii legislative session got under way. Associated Press.

State Senate President Donna Mercado Kim said Wednesday that despite anticipating a better economy, lawmakers should not impose new tax burdens on residents or reflexively expand state programs. House Speaker Joseph Souki said the state must generate new revenue if legislators want to restore the social safety net, improve public education and repair infrastructure. Star-Advertiser.

On Wednesday, Calvin Say's 14 years as speaker ended, and the man he deposed — Joe Souki — was returned to power with the votes of 25 Democrats and all seven Republicans.Civil Beat.

on Wednesday, January 16, during the first day of the 60 working day session, both the Senate president and House speaker expressed their concern over Hawaii's high tax burden. Hawaii Reporter.

The 27th State Legislature opened Wednesday, and an expected change in the House of Representatives leadership has given more — or at least some — power to the Republican minority in Hawai‘i’s Democratic-dominated political arena. Garden Island.

Sen. Donna Mercado Kim takes helm as Senate president, Rep. Joe Souki installed as House Speaker. KITV4.

The State Legislature convened today with many focusing on the House of Representatives where a new leader was formally installed… resulting in a major shift in power for the first time in 14 years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Joseph Souki officially took over as state House speaker, succeeding Calvin Say. But supporters of the outgoing leader voiced discontent at Say's seat assignment. Hawaii News Now.

Hundreds marched on the state capitol on Wednesday hoping lawmakers will hear their call to action. KHON2.

With swooping, rhythmic motions, hundreds of men, women, teenagers and preschoolers pounded taro into roughly 1,000 pounds of poi Wednesday at the state Capitol as part of a protest that drew hundreds of residents hoping to have their voices heard on the opening day of the legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

On Wednesday, there was a cadence of movement, as hundreds gathered in a convocation of various groups coming together to push for labeling of genetically modified foods. Hawaii Independent.

[VIDEO] Legislature's Opening Day: Speeches, Songs, Chants and Cheers. Civil Beat.

This is a copy of Speaker Joseph M. Souki's prepared remarks to the opening session of the state House of Representatives on Wednesday. Maui News.

A Honolulu-based nonprofit law firm wants state lawmakers to establish a Hawaii earned income tax credit and eliminate the income tax on the poor to ease the burden on low-income individuals and families. West Hawaii Today.

Toxic chemicals released in Hawaii from facilities such as electric utilities and fuel refineries increased slightly in 2011, according to the latest Toxics Release Inventory data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is considering asking environmental regulators to extend deadlines for complying with new regulations that they say would cost ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk  Caldwell told lawmakers this week the city has been shortchanged when it comes to a special tax that's earmarked for rail and that an accounting error led to the loss of $10 million last year. Civil Beat.

The explosion at a Waikele storage facility that killed five people in 2011, along with a fireworks-related Fourth of July fatality in Kansas, shows a clear "regulatory gap" when it comes to the disposal of fireworks in the United States, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board said in a report expected to be released this morning in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Preliminary necropsy findings on a humpback whale calf that died off an East Honolulu beach indicate the mammal may have been battling some sort of respiratory infection, according to one of the scientists at Hawaii Pacific University involved in the examination. Star-Advertiser.

Chevron Corp. will likely follow Tesoro Corp.'s lead and close its Campbell Industrial Park refinery within a few years as the environment to do business in Hawaii becomes more difficult, an East-West Center energy expert said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

One of Mayor Billy Kenoi’s legislative priorities — a county takeover of Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea State Recreation Areas — is already encountering some resistance in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

If you want to save a few cents at area supermarkets and shopping malls, now is the time to start toting your shopping bags into the store with you. West Hawaii Today.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on Hawaii island took top honors in four categories in the TripAdvisor 2013 Travelers' Choice Hotel awards: best overall in the U.S. and in the world and best luxury hotel in the U.S. and in the world. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

A lecture, a performance and a display are part of the events that will be held Thursday on the University of Hawaii Maui College lawn fronting Kaahumanu Avenue to commemorate and educate the public about the 120th anniversary of the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom that occurred on Jan. 17, 1893. Maui News.

The Department of Water Supply will be providing combined water and wastewater bills on a monthly basis starting next week. Maui News.

Kauai

The Department of Water will bill its customers on a monthly basis instead of bi-monthy beginning Jan. 22, according to a county news release. DOW officials say the change was made to provide better customer service. Garden Island.

Hawaii legislative session begins today, leadership changes, new lawmakers in the mix, voters oppose gay marriage, old Kauai sugar stack comes tumbling down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature 2013 session calendar

Hawaii lawmakers were gearing up to address major issues that include the state budget, food and energy independence and education as the 2013 legislative session opens today. Associated Press.

After the 27th State Legislature convenes Wednesday, expect the state budget to dominate discussion. Hawaii News Now.

When the new session of the Legislature opens today, veteran Rep. Joseph Souki will take the gavel from Speaker Calvin Say on the strength of a dissident faction that has sought to remove Say for the past eight years. Star-Advertiser.

It's showtime for the band of former dissidents in the state House of Representatives who are finally taking the reins of power after years of battling outgoing Speaker Calvin Say for control of the House. Star-Advertiser.

Speaker-elect Joe Souki of Maui (District 8 – Wailuku, Waihee, Waiehu, Puuohala, Waikapu) announced today state House leadership positions and chair and vice-chair positions for the 2013 session. Maui Now.

Wednesday is the opening day of the legislative session and it could mark a new era in leadership. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie this afternoon announced his appointment of Maui businessman Justin Woodson to fill the House seat vacancy created when Rep.Gil Keith-Agaran moved over to the Senate. Civil Beat.

Justin Woodson, owner of a Maui carwash and a former president of the Young Demo­crats of Hawaii, became the newest member of the state House Tuesday, on the eve of opening day of the 2013 Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

As the economy shows positive signs of recovery, this year’s Senate Opening Day ceremony will include remarks by presiding officers, local musicians and honored guests will be allowed to be seated on the chamber floor. Hawaii Reporter.

It was high fives all around following a meeting of the minds Tuesday, before the county mayors made their way downstairs to talk to state lawmakers about their priorities. KITV4.

In order to make the legislative process more open and participatory for the public, Common Cause Hawaii and 13 other community organizations have asked the Senate and House to consider implementing new rules and practices in the 2013 Legislative Session. Civil Beat.

Most Hawaii voters remain opposed to same-sex marriage in the state but support is growing, a new Civil Beat Poll shows. Civil Beat.

The teachers who organized the so-called "Work to the Rule" protests that spread to schools statewide will rally at the State Capitol Wednesday morning, urging lawmakers to consider legislation that the teachers' union says it does not support. Hawaii News Now.

Emboldened by the United Public Workers’ new deal, the Hawaii State Teachers Association wants the state to double down on its latest contract settlement offer. Civil Beat.

The Blue Planet Foundation said Tuesday that the existing state renewable energy tax credit, which has helped the solar photovoltaic industry reach new heights, provides a “significant net fiscal benefit to the state.” Pacific Business News.

Rep. Cynthia Thielen is questioning whether the Public Utilities Commission is properly regulating the cost of electricity in the state. Star-Advertiser.

A Joint State Senate Committee conducted an informational hearing today to receive an update on the implementation of provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii’s largest health insurance provider wants to deliver more support to its members over the next several years, the company’s new CEO said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Travel Technology Association, a trade organization that represents the nation’s top online travel companies including Amadeus, Expedia, Hotels.com, Hotwire, Priceline, Orbitz Worldwide, Travelocity, Travelport and Vegas.com, will fight a court ruling that orders them to pay millions of dollars in back state taxes for $2.7 billion in Hawaii hotel room sales. Hawaii Reporter.

It’s been only three weeks since Brian Schatz abruptly took off in Air Force One with President Barack Obama en route from Honolulu to Washington D.C., where he was promptly sworn in as Hawaii’s new U.S. senator. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka left office with about $15,000 in his campaign account. Associated Press.

State roundup for January 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

Tuesday's early morning blaze under a freeway viaduct near Honolulu Airport marked the first time a fire damaged fiberoptic telecomunications cables, cutting off telephone, Internet or cable TV service to about 25,000 homes and businesses. Star-Advertiser.

The Aloha Tower Development Corp. on Monday approved Hawaii Pacific University’s $30 million plan to transform the Aloha Tower Marketplace into a student dormitory with as many as 300 units and entertainment and sports complex that would infuse economic growth into the center near downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

The state Department of Health said Oahu smoke levels during the 2013 New Year's celebrations were consistent with levels during 2012 celebrations thanks to an islandwide ban on fireworks with the exception of firecrackers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

’Tis the season, according to police — the season for cockfighting, that is. Tribune-Herald.

Fishermen off Honokohau Harbor found what they believe to be debris from the March 2011 tsunami. West Hawaii Today.

The Reed’s Island bridge was closed Monday, marking the start of an approximately nine-month renovation project. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Members of Maui's legislative delegation are optimistic about the significant leadership changes in store when the Legislature convenes Wednesday, saying they anticipate accomplishing a laundry list of priorities for Maui residents. Maui News.

Justin Howard Woodson of Kahului was appointed to fill the vacant state House District 9 seat Tuesday afternoon by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

The Maui County Council is expected to make initial committee referrals on Friday that could include review of the Maui Bus schedules and fares; and a resolution to hire the first county auditor. Maui Now.

Kauai

On the day before the opening of the 2013 state Legislature, Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. traveled to O‘ahu to talk to Legislators about collaboration. Garden Island.

The Lihue Sugar Mill smokestack stood watch over the town of Lihu‘e for almost 65 years. Yesterday, it tumbled into the mud. Garden Island.

Lyle Tabata stood with co-workers Tuesday afternoon outside the Lihue Civic Center, about a quarter-mile from the former Lihue Sugar Mill on Kauai, and watched as contractors tore down the mill's historic smokestack, a symbol of Hawaii's bygone sugar plantation era. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of  Kaua‘i and O‘ahu customers — including businesses and government offices, including the Kaua‘i Police Department — were affected by a fire on O‘ahu that knocked out phone and data service for an estimated 10,000 Hawaiian Telcom customers. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Molokai Land Trust has received the deed to a 5-mile stretch of remote and environmentally sensitive coastline along the rugged north shore of Molokai that has endangered ferns, subsistence gathering areas and an extensive tidal pool system, the trust announced Monday. Maui News.

Akaka honored, Arizona nonprofit seeks management of 8 Hawaii hospitals, poll finds voters favor Public Land Development Corp., stranded baby humpback dies, lawmaker wants HECO profits scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Akaka receives Aloha Order of Merit from Gov. Abercrombie, courtesy photo

Hawaii honored longtime U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka on Monday by inducting him into the Aloha Order of Merit, an honor reserved for people who have given extraordinary service to the state. Associated Press.

Now that he is out of public office, former U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka is calling on the next generation of public officials from Hawaii to continue his work of spreading the aloha spirit at home, in the halls of Congress and throughout the country. Star-Advertiser.

State Lawmakers and dignitaries attended a special ceremony today to honor Senator Daniel K. Akaka. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's congressional delegation has not yet met to lay out priorities for the coming year, but that meeting is expected to take place next week in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

Incumbents in the U.S. Senate and the Governor's Office say they will keep their focus on their jobs in the face of potential rivalry in the 2014 democratic primaries. KHON2.

A new Civil Beat Poll conducted last week found only 28 percent of voters want to abolish the relatively new Public Land Development Corporation, despite its battered image and continued protests. Civil Beat.

Rep. Cynthia Thielen is pushing for increased oversight of Hawaiian Electric Co.’s finances. The state rep. will be introducing legislation this session that would create a permanent task force to determine and periodically revise the electric utilities’ rate of return. Civil Beat.

Hilo Medical Center and seven other public health facilities on the Big Island, Maui and Lanai may fall under new management. Tribune-Herald.

Financial uncertainty in recent years is one of the motives behind Hawaii Health Systems Corp.’s recent discussions with an Arizona-based nonprofit health care system to take over management of eight public hospitals on the Big Island and Maui, said Avery Chumbley, HHSC’s board chairman. West Hawaii Today.
 
Oahu

In a scene that left some onlookers in tears, a baby humpback whale stuck in shallow water just off Kawai­­kui Beach Park near Aina Haina thrashed about for hours Monday in a futile attempt to escape the reef upon which it was stranded. Star-Advertiser.

A baby humpback whale that was stuck on a reef in shallow waters off east Oahu has died. Hawaii News Now.

A federal agency is expected to announce this week the findings and recommendations of its investigation into the 2011 explosion at a Wai­kele hillside storage facility that killed five workers dismantling illegal fireworks seized by the government. Star-Advertiser.

Redevelopment work at Aloha Tower Marketplace may begin as early as this summer after a state agency gave its consent Monday for Hawaii Pacific University to lead a $32 million makeover of the retail center fronting Honolulu Harbor despite objections by a real estate developer who put the project together. Star-Advertiser.

Workers represented by the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 142 have ratified their first contract with management at Pacific Beach Hotel, ending more than a decade of acrimonious legal battles that went nearly all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Replay Resorts, the private equity firm pushing for development of five additional hotels at Turtle Bay, is forming a new foundation. Hawaii Independent.

In the process of building the Kalaeloa Raceway Park, some community groups claim crews damaged an ancient altar and Makahiki site used for Hawaiian games and religious ceremonies. KITV4.

Hawaii

Money for civil defense sirens, Kona International Airport, major roads on both sides of the island, a juvenile justice center, pharmacy building at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, rural residency program for doctors and the county takeover of two state parks top the wish list Mayor Billy Kenoi will be presenting today to two legislative committees. West Hawaii Today.

Two years after the Hawaii County Council rebuffed Mayor Billy Kenoi’s attempt to ban county employees from securing county contracts for their private businesses, a company at the center of the controversy has again won a contract to clean roadside drywells and culverts. West Hawaii Today.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge will consider next month tossing the remaining defamation charges made by two Hawaii County election workers fired a year ago. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation won’t be taking bids on improvements to the Kawaihae Road intersection with Queen Kaahumanu Highway for another two years. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie today officially received three names from the Hawaii Democratic Party to be considered for the vacant House District 9 seat left vacant by Gil Keith-Agaran, who is now a state senator. Maui News.

The Maui Police Department will launch a new Crisis Intervention Team Program this week, the first of its kind in the state, according to department officials. Maui Now.

Small nonfarm businesses in Kalawao and Maui counties are eligible to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to offset economic losses caused by the drought that began this year. Maui News.

Having developed Maui-made Ocean Vodka into a successful brand over the last six years, the Smith family is now positioning the company for expansion with the addition of a new facility to streamline operations and allow the business to branch out in the luxury alcoholic beverage market. Maui News.

Kauai

The Cost Control Commission will not to pursue a proposal to raise the minimum age to qualify for an age-related real property tax exemption, they decided Monday, as it would not have meant savings for the administration in processing time and the revenues may not have been significant. Garden Island.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has intensified its efforts this week to locate Peter Heckman, offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to capture and arrest of the Kauai fugitive who allegedly is the mastermind of a $1.2 million investment scheme. Hawaii Reporter.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched a new campaign and offered a new reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Peter Heckman, a former Kaua‘i resident accused of operating a Ponzi scheme out of his recording studio. Garden Island.

Randy Francisco, the Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, held a first-of-its-kind press conference yesterday, uniting business leaders with county officials to show that Kaua‘i is a safe place in light of the recent crimes that have depicted Kaua‘i negatively. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Hawaii Department of Transportation is looking for architectural and engineering firms to help update the master plan and noise program at Lanai Airport. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

A former employee has been ordered to share in repaying more than $3,500 stolen from the Molokai satellite office of the Maui County Division of Motor Vehicles & Licensing. Maui News.

Hawaii voters like Schatz, Maui Dems release names but not finalists for House seat, more bones found on Honolulu rail route, Oahu ballot shortage questions remain, state to get $150M from travel sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Brian Schatz with Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo

Hawaii voters generally think Gov. Neil Abercrombie was right to pick his former lieutenant governor, Brian Schatz, to replace the late U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye, according to a new Civil Beat Poll conducted last week. Civil Beat.

Hindus now have a fellow believer in Congress. Associated Press.

Steady revenue growth from Hawaii's tourism-driven economic recovery may tempt state lawmakers this session to satisfy some of the pent-up demand for state spending since the recession, but lawmakers do not have enough confidence in the economy for much of an expansion. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers who organized the so-called "work to the rule" protests that spread to schools statewide are planning a rally at the State Capitol this week for legislation that the teachers' union says it does not support. Hawaii News Now.

The investigation of widespread ballot shortages that plagued Oahu voters on Election Day is finished, but the thoroughness of the probe is now being brought into question. KITV4.

A judge has ordered some online travel sites to pay the state roughly $150 million for a decade’s worth of back taxes and interest. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources is mounting a renewed push for long-term funding for the protection of the state’s critical watershed areas. Civil Beat.

A Civil Beat poll found 80 percent of respondents had both cell phones and landlines, 11 percent said cell phone only and 9 percent said landline only. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co.’s Robbie Alm said Thursday that Hawaii will meet, and probably even exceed, its preliminary mandate of achieving 15 percent clean energy by 2015. Pacific Business News.

Of 27 movies, Elvis Presley made 3 in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Ben Jay, the new athletics director at the University of Hawaii, will spend his first official day on the job in Manoa on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu
Archaeologists for the city’s rail transit project unearthed another set of human remains Sunday as they worked on one of two remaining trenches in the proposed downtown corridor. Star-Advertiser.

A company that leases more than 35 acres from the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to operate a racing facility in Leeward Oahu has been hit with more than $100,000 in property-related violations, is several months behind on its rent and is under investigation by DHHL for allegedly clearing land outside the parcel's boundaries and possibly damaging historically significant sites, according to public records and information from city and state agencies. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle announced he would be an international business adviser for the law firm O’Connor, Playdon & Guben. Civil Beat.

Nearly a dozen people woke up early Saturday morning to take a stand against animal cruelty, specifically cock fighting. KHON2.

Hawaii

Former veteran lawmaker from Hilo Jerry Chang has been named to replace Gerald De Mello, the longtime University of Hawaii at Hilo public relations chief. Big Island Now.

A Big Island landowner has racked up a sizable tab with the Hawaii County Planning Department. Tribune-Herald.

After nearly a year of inaction, some South Kona residents are frustrated by the county’s apparent inability to fix a broken solar heating system for its public swimming pool at Konawaena High School. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Democratic Party releases names of seven qualified applicants for the state House seat vacated by Gil Keith-Agarn, but didn't reveal the three finalists sent to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

A dedication ceremony was held on Friday for the new $26 million science building at the University of Hawai’i Maui College campus in Kahului. Maui Now.

Members of the community last week objected to the proposed removal of concrete modules that were mistakenly dropped on coral within the Keawakapu artificial reef three years ago, citing cost issues and the possibility of creating more problems. Maui News.

Maui County has disclosed it paid $40,000 last year to settle a federal lawsuit filed by a Maui woman who was shot by a Taser gun by one of four police officers in 2006 at her Wailuku home. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai
On Sunday, less than two weeks after being sworn into office, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-District 2) made her first visit to Kaua‘i since the election. Garden Island.

One month and one week after taking office on December 3, the new Kaua‘i Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said the staff is coming together more quickly than he expected. Garden Island.

If all goes smooth, one of the best skate parks in the state will be ready by the end of the year in Hanapepe, thanks to a partnership between a hardcore group of community members, do-it-yourself skateboarders and local government. And that’s just the first of a series of planned skate facilities. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai’s Native Hawaiian Library is sponsoring an Open House and Event, Ua Mau Ke Ea: Sovereignty Endures on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii voters seek legal marijuana, Oahu teacher sprays sanitizer into mouth of swearing student, Election Commission report due today, Senate sets priorities, norovirus outbreak in hospitals, Kauai council mulls rainy-day fund, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pohakuloa military training area (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Marine Corps stands to see the biggest military increases in Hawaii in coming years as other services here go through less of a change and as all shift from a wartime footing to greater engagement in Asia and the Pacific, officials said at an annual military-business conference Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has lost a lot of firepower in the U.S. Congress, when it comes to the military, with the death of Sen. Daniel Inouye, but the state’s younger congressional delegation and its strategic importance will ensure that it plays an important part in the country’s pivot to the Pacific. Pacific Business News.

More than half of Hawaii voters want the state to follow the lead of Colorado and Washington and make recreational marijuana legal for adults, a new poll shows. Civil Beat.

The state Election's Commission is expected to release the findings of its investigation into problems during November's general election at a meeting on Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Thousands of public correctional, institutional and health workers will receive pay raises in the next six months under a draft arbitration award that could lead other public employees to seek similar raises. Star-Advertiser.

Representatives from the state Department of Education and the Hawaii State Teacher's Association will resume negotiations on Friday, nearly a month after the teacher's union rejected the state's latest proposal. Hawaii News Now.

The uproar over Hawaii’s solar tax credits will fuel a good deal of the debate on energy policy this legislative session, which opens next week. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. customers will be on the hook for hundreds of millions of dollars if the utility doesn't switch to liquefied natural gas to power its generators, the executive vice president of the company says. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Senate Majority Caucus today unveiled its priorities for the 2013 Legislative Session, which begins on January 16. Hawaii Reporter.

The Senate Committee on Energy and Environment, with Senator Mike Gabbard as the Chair, will host an informational briefing on invasive species issues on Friday, January 11, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. in Conference Room 229 in the State Capitol. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lacks a state-funded preschool program, something that Gov. Neil Abercrombie is making a top legislative priority this year. Civil Beat.

The state will bestow the prestigious Aloha Order of Merit upon former US Sen. Daniel K. Akaka during a ceremony on Monday, January 14. Maui Now.

Island Air, the interisland carrier that has struggled to find its niche among rivals Hawaiian Airlines and Mesa Air Group's go!, is being sold to an undisclosed buyer. Star-Advertiser.

Exhibit highlights honor bestowed upon Japanese-American veterans. Star-Advertiser.

State health officials monitoring outbreak of possible norovirus. KITV4.

State roundup for January 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

The cost of construction delays tied to a recent Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that suspended the city’s $5.26 billion rail transit project are coming in lower than anticipated, the project’s oversight agency announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation officials said Thursday the costs of construction delays for September and October stemming from an Aug. 24 Hawaii Supreme Court were 31 percent lower than what they had anticipated. Pacific Business News.

Members of Defend Oahu Coalition gathered at City Hall on Thursday to urge state and city government leaders to stop the planned expansion of Turtle Bay Resort. Star-Advertiser.

A 79-year-old man who was paralyzed by a fall 15 to 20 feet from the illuminated first tee at the Mid Pacific Country Club late at night in 2009 was awarded about $6.2 million in a jury verdict Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

One of the figures in the Stevie Wonder Blunder, Hawaii promoter Bob Peyton, died Thursday morning at Castle Medical Center. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii extreme sports athlete plans to liven up a dingy block in Kakaako with a year-round fairgrounds featuring a stationary surfing wave, skateboard park and go-kart track. Star-Advertiser.

An Oahu middle school teacher is on leave after allegedly squirting hand sanitizer into the mouth of a eighth-grade student on Wednesday in front of the class. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Windward Planning Commission was poised Thursday to give the Connections Public Charter School a failing grade for its Kaumana campus proposal. Tribune-Herald.

Waimea’s North Hawaii Community Hospital on Thursday appointed an interim CEO and hired a consulting firm in an effort to improve the facility’s financial performance and attract a permanent chief executive officer. West Hawaii Today.

A professor of Hawaiian language believes he has traced the ancestors of Hawaii’s first inhabitants to the remote, Polynesian Outlier atolls to the southwest. Tribune-Herald.

The same day plaintiffs in a lawsuit against 1250 Oceanside Partners announced they had reached an impasse after several years of negotiations, a South Kona property owner signed a $13 million complaint against the developer. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island's economy is gradually improving, but it still has a lot of catching up to do to match other parts of the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui
Complete with nine different teaching laboratories, an observatory, a rooftop garden, wind turbines and a photovoltaic system, University of Hawaii Maui College's long-awaited $26 million science facility is expected to open in the next few weeks. Maui News.

David Raatz Jr., the new director of Maui County's Office of Council Services, had worked as a legislative attorney for the same office for 16 years until March 2012. Maui News.

Maui Memorial Park is planning to rebuild 153 feet of wall within the next three to four weeks, cemetery officials said this week. Maui News.

Kauai

After routinely ending each recent fiscal year with tens of millions of dollars with a budgetary surplus, the county may start using some of that money for a permanent rainy-day fund. But will it cost more to taxpayers? Garden Island.

Five Kaua‘i residents have been selected to appear on the ballot for the board of the Kaua‘i Island Utilities Cooperation. Garden Island.

After a few weeks in plain view on the island’s busiest traffic corridor, the graffiti on the rockwall of the southbound Wailua Bridge was removed Wednesday. The same cannot be said about the graffiti at the bridge’s foundation. Garden Island.