Tourist injuries rise, sugary drink tax controversial, Tax Dept. snoops investigated, Legislature spurns Supreme Court, teachers want tax hike, Maui waste-to-energy bids roll in, Public Land Development Corp. targeted, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Tourist watches Hawaii surf (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Tourism officials and first responders are redoubling their efforts to raise visitor awareness about the potential perils of Hawaii's natural attractions after at least 11 accidental deaths of tourists this year. Star-Advertiser.

Public-health advocates on Wednesday called on state senators to approve a steep new fee on soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages to raise money to combat obesity, but beverage, restaurant and retail interests argued that singling out soda is unfair. Star-Advertiser.

A measure that would add a penny per ounce fee to sugary beverages will get another hearing before the state Senate’s Health Committee takes a vote on it. West Hawaii Today.

More than 57 percent of the people in Hawaii are obese or overweight. Hawaii News Now.

In an historic first, Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald on Wednesday delivered his biennial State of the Judiciary address on YouTube. The Hawaii Legislature didn't invite him to address lawmakers, as is customary. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald started a new tradition Wednesday when he delivered his State of the Judiciary address via YouTube, making it the first time that speech has been delivered through social media. Pacific Business News.

A software glitch mistakenly added Hawaii to a tsunami watch alert sent out globally on Tuesday, an official with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said. Star-Advertiser.

A legislative inquiry has been made into the state taxpayer record breaches that KHON2 revealed yesterday had raised red flags with federal investigators. And the tax department itself is seeking tougher laws in the wake of the case. KHON2.

Hawaii’s educators are asking state lawmakers to bump up funding for education by increasing the general excise tax by 1 percent. West Hawaii Today.

There are 19 bills going through the Legislature dealing with election registration and oversight, and 16 regarding Internet or by-mail voting. Honolulu Weekly.

Connecticut and Illinois are ranked worst in the nation when it comes to taxpayer burdens from unfunded liabilities, but Hawaii is close behind them, coming in as the third worst “sink hole” state. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are moving forward this session with bills to fix the state’s broken school bus program. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers want to dedicate more than $1 million over the next two years to mitigate the effects of a beetle that is endangering the state’s coffee crops. Associated Press.

More than a dozen national media organizations have signed on to a letter opposing Hawaii's so-called "Steven Tyler Act," a bill that seeks to prevent paparazzi and reporters from stalking celebrities who vacation in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

A state education task force formed to help come up with a teacher evaluation system is causing some consternation among members who worry little is being accomplished as a deadline for recommendations quickly approaches. Civil Beat.

A Senate committee recommended Wednesday approving Gov. Neil Abercrombie's controversial nominee to run the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands even though the nominee's former deputy said she was fired in December for not accepting a position in another department that was to be paid for using DHHL money. Star-Advertiser.

The solar industry has been booming in Hawaii, but state officials worry the industry’s tax credits are draining state coffers. Associated Press.

One of the strongest measures of a politician's electoral strength is how much campaign cash they have and who gave it to them. In that regard, Gov. Neil Abercrombie would appear a formidable candidate. Civil Beat.

Between 12 and 15-thousand people are homeless at any given time in Hawai’i.  The state legislature is proposing a number of bills this session that attempt to ease the situation on all islands…especially for Native Hawaiians who comprise the largest segment of the homeless. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two bills aimed at providing more legislative access for neighbor island residents passed out of key committees. Maui Now.

Popular parrot fish could soon be off limits permanently. KHON2.

“Catching Fire,” the second installment of “The Hunger Games” movies, is due to resume filming in Hawaii at the end of this month. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

A proposal for a year-round fairground in Kakaako with go-kart racing, a zip line, indoor skydiving and a surfing wave pool received limited but wholesale public support at a Wednesday hearing held by the state agency overseeing development in the area. Star-Advertiser.

Worse than ever and with no end in sight -- that's how some Chinatown merchants are describing conditions in their neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

After KHON2 broke the story of private donors paying for a $10,000-a-month assistant to Honolulu's mayor, a list of who gave will be disclosed, and the Honolulu Ethics Commission may weigh in. KHON2.

A female green turtle that traveled more than 500 miles from the French Frigate Shoals to Oahu died Wednesday after being struck by a boat. Star-Advertiser.

A former high school teacher charged with having sex with a female student in his classroom was sentenced to 10 years in jail on Wednesday. KITV4.

Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Pharmacy administrators are warning that the fledgling program is in danger of having its wings clipped before it has barely had a chance to fly. Tribune-Herald.

For the second time in six months, the Hawaii County Council voted unanimously to send a message to the state Legislature that the county opposes threats to its home-rule powers posed by the Public Land Development Corp. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii island physician who was severely injured in a car crash two years ago involving former University of Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan reached an out-of-court settlement Wednesday in her personal injury lawsuit, her lawyer said. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui County has received 20 bids from potential developers to build and operate a waste-to-energy plant that is proposed for a 10-acre site next to the landfill in Puunene. Maui News.

The state Land Use Commission on Thursday is scheduled to hear oral closing arguments and to consider a challenge to the development of two large retail centers and 250 affordable housing units proposed in north Kihei. Maui News.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing the designation of critical habitat to protect some 135 plant and animal species in Maui Nui. Maui Now.

Hundreds of Maui residents paid their last respects to noted Maui Attorney B. Martin Luna at services held at the Ala Lani United Methodist Church on Saturday. Maui Weekly.

Kauai

Police arrested two men Wednesday at Wailua Beach for obstructing a construction site for the county multi-use path. But to James Alalem, 55, of Wailua, and Ray Catania, 62, of Puhi, they were only protecting their religious rights. Garden Island.

A new data projector and an audio-visual screen are just a few of the new toys Lihu‘e Library patrons will be able to enjoy once construction is finished. Garden Island.

A small but fiery crowd of biologists, fishermen and ocean enthusiasts gathered in Lihu‘e Monday to ask questions and provide comments related to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s proposal to list 66 species of corals under the Endangered Species Act. Garden Island.

Endangered monk seal dies from fishhook, UH tuition rises, DHHL resists new director, Hawaii taxes crimp Expedia profits, tsunami watch was a mistake, NOAA center to be named for Inouye, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian monk seal DLNR courtesy photo

A juvenile monk seal that died after it was spotted off Hawaii island having trouble breathing had ingested a fishhook, according to a necropsy conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries. Star-Advertiser.

Fishhook shown in x-ray

Federal and state officials say the seal known as RK68 died a slow and painful death. KITV4.

A Hawaiian monk seal that died Friday likely swallowed back in August the fish hook that caused its death, a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration official said. West Hawaii Today.

Environmental and solar-energy interests urged state lawmakers Tuesday to gradually reduce the state's generous solar tax credit and undo the temporary rules imposed by the Abercrombie administration that many believe have undercut the growing solar industry. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would allow inspections of vessels and catch containers belonging to permitted fishermen in West Hawaii waters is gaining momentum in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly half of the nine-member commission that oversees the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands opposes Gov. Neil Abercrombie's choice to head the department, saying Jobie Masa­ga­tani is divisive and has worked against the interests of the agency's Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. Star-Advertiser.

Recent controversies over how the University of Hawaii spends its money have prompted several bills that would make the university's Board of Regents more accountable to the public. The Senate and House Higher Education committees on Tuesday passed some of them. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are investigating the rising cost of tuition at the University of Hawaii and are pushing to reform the system’s board of regents. Associated Press.

Tuition increases at all 10 campuses of the University of Hawaii System are scheduled to bring in about 50-million dollars more over the next 4 years.   But … as HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports … U-H administrators told state Senators in a joint committee session today… students and/or parents will likely have to pay more in the future. Hawaii Public Radio.

On Tuesday, February 5, at a legislative hearing, teachers wearing white and red tee shirts that read “Teachers Taking a Stand: You cannot put students first if you put teachers last”, told House Economic Development Committee members they support a plan to raise the General Gross Income Tax by 1 percent with revenue set aside for their pay raises. Hawaii Reporter.

Soaring hotel bookings pushed revenue higher at Expedia Inc., but the online travel agency’s fourth-quarter profit fell 90 percent because of money it set aside to appeal a tax dispute in Hawaii. Associated Press.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Pacific Regional Center under construction in Honolulu will be renamed the Daniel K. Inouye Regional Center in honor of the late Hawaii senator, Inouye’s office said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii residents received mixed messages about a tsunami scare after a powerful earthquake in the South Pacific on Tuesday. The destructive waves that reportedly claimed lives in the Santa Cruz Islands did not reach Hawaii, but a bulletin issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center caused some confusion. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii was not under a tsunami warning, but for a few minutes, Hawaii was mistakenly under a tsunami watch. KHON2.

The Hawaii State Public Library System’s website at www.librarieshawaii.org went offline due to technical difficulties Tuesday and library officials are unsure when it will be back up. Star-Advertiser.

Island Air has hired a restructuring expert and a global law firm specializing in bankruptcies that could pave the way for the company to file for Chapter 11 reorganization. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for February 6. Associated Press.

Oahu

A nonprofit group set up to help Kirk Caldwell pick appointees and to put on inaugural events will make public the names of its donors in response to media inquiries. Star-Advertiser.

Residents fear dangers of planned bypass road. The project, expected to take 16 months, raises concerns of more accidents and sand erosion. Star-Advertiser.

Clothes line bill asks for right to dry in public housing projects. KITV4.

The city last week seized more than three dozen items, including chairs, a sofa, coolers, a rug, a mattress and a Christmas tree stand, from Occupy Hono­lulu and homeless campers who use the sidewalks on the makai side of South Beretania Street at Thomas Square. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A Hawaii County Council committee Tuesday put a preliminary stamp of approval on a game commission that looks markedly different from the group that worked to get the concept into the county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will proclaim Wednesday Digital Learning Day in Hawaii and commend Keaau Elementary and Middle Schools’ students, faculty and staff for leading the state’s progress in the adoption of a common core digital curriculum, including use of digital devices assigned for students’ personal use. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island legislators are trying to get half a million dollars to fund coffee berry borer research. West Hawaii Today.

State Sen. Josh Green won re-election last November with enough cash left over to fund his campaign nearly four more times. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Legal action is being taken against Wailuku Main Street Association Inc./Tri-Isle Main Street Resource Center for nearly $10,000 of unpaid back rent and other fees, according to a filing in 2nd Circuit Court. Maui News.

The sitting Maui County member on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents is seeking another five-year term as the Regents Candidate Advisory Council on Monday released the names of three candidates for the post. Maui News.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Thursday released an analysis of the estimated costs for the proposed critical habitat for 135 plant and animal species in Maui County. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council’s Planning Committee unanimously voted Tuesday to approve Bill 2439, which would create a special account where civil fines levied by the county Planning Department would be deposited. Garden Island.

The Garden Island Resource Conservation and Development and its work with endangered birds got support from DuPont Pioneer when it was presented with a grant for $7,050. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire majority owner of the island of Lanai, is willing to “freely invest” an additional $10 million or more in the island’s water infrastructure without recovery of any of the cost and/or a reasonable rate of return from customers. Pacific Business News.

GMO bills take center stage, hemp bills get airing, teachers move closer to strike, doctor shortage tackled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

GMO courtesy photo illustration

Environmental groups are urging state lawmakers to require all genetically modified food to carry boldface labeling. Associated Press.

More than 12-hundred people signed up to testify at the Capitol yesterday on a House Bill that would require the labeling of food containing genetically engineered materials. Hawaii Public Radio.

State lawmakers are continuing to wrestle with how to attract more physicians to rural areas where primary care is limited. Star-Advertiser.

A slew of proposals to legalize gambling in the state is back on the table this year, but lawmakers have yet to focus on the issue. Star-Advertiser.

Two state Senate committees have given initial approval to allow privately funded industrial hemp research. Star-Advertiser.

State legislators seem more inclined to toughen up ethics laws and improve government transparency this session compared to previous years. Civil Beat.

At a rally at the state Capitol last week, 1,000 public school teachers wore red. On Monday, some told us they're seeing red over the drawn out negotiations for a new contract, and the word "strike" is being tossed out more often. Hawaii News Now.

The state has agreed to make two dozen improvements to school safety at the Hawaii School for the Deaf and Blind as part of a $5 million settlement of a class-action lawsuit that alleged years of sexual abuse of students at the Kapahulu campus. Star-Advertiser.

Senate President: 'Bloated' Bureaucracy at University of Hawaii is Making Tuition Unaffordable. Hawaii Reporter.

University of Hawaii scientists are being recognized with an honorable mention award for their video showing living coral under a microscope. Associated Press.

State briefs 2/5. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell has been on the job just over a month, yet he still has several key cabinet appointments to make. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has completed all of the fieldwork for the archaeological survey required before work can resume on the $5.16 billion elevated-rail mass-transit project, HART said Monday in its email newsletter. Pacific Business News.

Outreach finds rental units for the chronically homeless. Star-Advertiser.

Special life-saving equipment on all of the Honolulu Fire Department's trucks has failed in recent years and been the subject of a manufacturer's recall. Hawaii News Now.

A Pavement Condition Report issued by the city’s Department of Facility Maintenance in December shows the sad state of Oahu’s roadways. KITV4.

There's a movement to make Iolani Palace look more like a palace. KHON2.

Two Ewa Beach schools are repairing several restrooms after one or more thieves made away with toilet flushing mechanisms, sink drainage pipes, metal plates on the floor and other fixtures. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A residency training program starting in Hilo with the goal of increasing rural family doctors statewide could get a needed infusion of funds in this year’s legislative session. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Police Department expects to start enforcing the state’s “move over” law soon, but wants to make sure the public knows about the law before officers start writing tickets. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will select one of two candidates announced Monday to represent the Big Island on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents for a five-year term beginning in July. Tribune-Herald.

A juvenile Hawaiian monk seal with respiratory troubles transported Friday from the Big Island to Oahu has reportedly died. Big Island Now.

Maui

Work has begun on two fenced enclosures in the West Maui Mountains that aim to attract two threatened native seabirds to protect them from predators and to encourage them to nest with techniques including broadcasts of their calls. Maui News.

The Hawaii Republican Party will be holding caucus meetings on Saturday. Maui News.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Thursday released an analysis of the estimated costs for the proposed critical habitat for 135 plant and animal species in Maui County. Maui News.

An affiliate of Dallas-based Lantern Asset Management was the highest bidder in a foreclosure hearing in Honolulu for the former Ritz-Carlton fractional and time-share project at Kapalua Resort. Maui Now.

Kauai

A Kaua‘i Community College student is attempting to introduce a recycling program that would ship waste to the Mainland annually, with hopes that it would pay for itself over time. Garden Island.

The Garden Island Resource Conservation and Development and its work with endangered birds got support from DuPont Pioneer when it was presented with a grant for $7,050. Garden Island.

Farm bills up for debate, disclosure sought for long-term car homes, pioneering legislator Hale dies, gas prices spike, Kauai council seeks garbage plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waipio Valley taro farms (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

From protecting taro lands to regulating genetically modified food, the House Agriculture Committee is expecting to have a full plate when it meets today in Honolulu. Tribune-Herald.

Lawmakers will consider a number of proposals this week related to the budget, university tuition and local farms. Hawaii News Now.

Unlike the majority of states, Hawaii does not place its state inspection results for long-term care facilities online. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Human Services, which oversees some of the care homes, isn’t so much concerned with having to post the records online as it is in clarifying the legislation to reflect which department oversees which care homes. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers want to spend $100,000 to get unwanted guns off the streets, saying it will help the state avoid a mass shooting like those seen in Colo­rado and Connecticut last year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's four mayors are aligned with the president when it comes to strengthening federal gun laws. But they don't think we need stricter regulations here at home. Civil Beat.

Sleeping at a bus stop could soon come with a stiff penalty. KHON2.

To provide the best education, higher education facilities must look to industries in their vicinity and businesses must look to how they can support research universities in a critical partnership, University of Hawai‘i President M.R.C. Greenwood said recently. Garden Island.

The number of bankruptcies in Hawaii last month dropped 25 percent to the lowest level in January since 2008, according to statistics from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

There is nothing wrong with rejoicing over a record visitor year in 2012 - but it's useful to take note of areas where more growth will be needed to attain the last peaks of the local hospitality industry. Hawaii News Now.

Prices at the pump have jumped seven cents in just one week, 17 cents from a month ago.  And local economists say prices are only expected to rise. KITV4.

State roundup for February 4. Associated Press.

Oahu

Should the State Buy Turtle Bay For $50M to Keep Country, Country? That’s what one bill before lawmakers would seem to suggest. Civil Beat.

Economists think the closure of the Tesoro refinery was unavoidable, given the small size of Hawaii's oil market and the state's pursuit of alternative energy policies designed to make the local oil market even smaller. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Helene Hale, whose political career started before Hawaii’s statehood and who, as chairman of the county Board of Supervisors in the 1960s, was the first woman mayor in the state, died of natural causes Friday night at her Hilo home. She was 94. Tribune-Herald.

A specific memory came to mind when Brian DeLima learned that Helene Hale, Hawaii's first female mayor and a Merrie Monarch Festival founder, had died. It was one he said encompasses her widely known spunk and fearlessness. Star-Advertiser.

County crews were able to divert only 5.6 percent of the 12,524 tons of garbage brought to the sort station during its first eight months of operation, a far cry from the up to 40 percent diversion rate originally anticipated by county officials. West Hawaii Today.

Several Big Island lawmakers are once again seeking to put someone else in charge of Hilo’s resort district. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

An appeal pending before the Hawaii Supreme Court is holding up the start of construction on the $300 million Advanced Technology Solar Telescope, a joint project atop Haleakala by the University of Hawaii and the National Science Foundation. Maui News.

Maui High School has captured its fifth state title at the Hawaii Regional Science Bowl since 2002 and is headed to the nation's capital after defeating private and public schools from across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Work has begun on two fenced enclosures in the West Maui Mountains that aim to attract two threatened native seabirds to protect them from predators and to encourage them to nest with techniques including broadcasts of their calls. Maui News.

Following a record-breaking year for Hawaii’s visitor industry, Honolulu, Kahului and Lihu’e airports have won US ANNIE Airport Awards for traffic growth and success in establishing new routes and increasing air sets in 2012. Maui Now.

Kauai

A $1.8 million contract with a consulting firm — which includes the environmental consequences of a new landfill and a feasibility study on a mega-recycling center piggy-backing on the landfill —allows for only two informational meetings with the Kaua‘i County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai's second-largest private landholder wants the state to designate about 11,000 acres it owns as "important agricultural land" under a 2005 state law, but advising agencies are divided on whether the entire area deserves the special status. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is issuing an executive order to allow the state to take emergency actions to restore fire-damaged forest on Kauai. Garden Island.

Molokai

After 40 years in the same location, Molokai Fish and Dive is being moved into the gas station next door in a process that will bring several changes to the popular ocean gear and tour provider. Molokai Dispatch.

On Wednesday, Jan. 16, a unified group of charter school students and teachers, environmentalist, conservationalist, Hawaiian rights activists, people of all ethnic backgrounds, and families trekked a three mile march, from Buckman Hall on the University of Hawaii campus to the State Capital, in an effort to push for labeling GMO foods. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii lawmakers seek paparazzi protection with 'Steven Tyler Act,' emergency contraception bill proposed, Abercrombie stuffs campaign warchest, libraries go digital, Kauai fights coral disease, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Steven Tyler courtesy photo

More than two-thirds of Hawaii’s state senators have signed onto a bill to protect celebrities from paparazzi, giving them power to sue over unwanted beach photos and other snapshots on the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Star-struck lawmakers have introduced Senate Bill 465, which would allow famous people to sue if they felt their privacy was being invaded by people taking photos or making recordings of them. Civil Beat.

Some Hawaii lawmakers believe public figures do deserve added protection. State Senator Kalani English, a Democrat from Maui, introduced the “Steven Tyler Act,” which makes it a civil tort to invade the privacy of celebrities. Hawaii Reporter.

Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler could be called the poster child for legislation some are calling the "paparazzi bill." KITV4.

A bill to strengthen Hawaii's lobbying law cleared a big hurdle this week, but not before the House Judiciary Committee diluted a key part. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has brought in more than $2.4 million for his re-election campaign next year, building a formidable bankroll while other Democrats consider whether he is vulnerable in a primary challenge. Star-Advertiser.

Members of the Women's Legislative Caucus say this could be the year state lawmakers pass what they've dubbed the Compassionate Care Act, which would require Hawaii hospitals to carry and offer emergency contraception to sexual assault victims. Star-Advertiser.

With new leadership in the state House of Representatives and greater awareness of the issue, the Women's Legislative Caucus is again trying to ensure that victims of sexual assault have access to factual, unbiased information about hospital emergency care. Civil Beat.

The state House Judiciary Committee on Thursday deferred a bill that would have asked voters to decide whether only people, and not corporations, should be entitled to free speech protections. Star-Advertiser.

A law signed in 2010 requiring maintenance of public beach accesses by adjacent landowners is poised to sunset June 30, unless a bill moving steadily at the Legislature is passed. Garden Island.

The national debate over gun control has led Hawaii legislators to introduce a handful of stricter gun laws, including a proposal to buy back guns. Hawaii Public Radio.

After a rocky start, Hawaii made significant progress in meeting its school improvement pledges in the second year of the four-year, $75 million Race to the Top grant, federal officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's charter school law leaped to 14th place in a national ranking, up from 35th the previous year, as reform efforts took hold in the state. Star-Advertiser.

The number of online items checked out through the Hawaii State Public Library System has more than tripled since 2009, library officials said. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

From the outside, they appeared set for life, paid by the city for their Pearl City land an amount more than five times their initial investment. But one family says a sweet deal to move out of rail's path turned sour. KHON2.

Cuts and changes last year to Honolulu's bus service were made to trim costs as the system became more expensive to operate. But those changes fueled widespread angst among riders across the city, many of whom now wait longer hours to catch overcrowded buses. Star-Advertiser.

On any given day, thousands of visitors and residents pack the beaches of Waikiki, and along with them, are thousands of discarded cigarette butts. Volunteers from Sustainable Coastlines and students from St. Louis School were out in full force Thursday morning cleaning up the mess many have left behind. Hawaii News Now.

A redeployment ceremony was held Thursday at Wheeler Army Airfield to welcome about 2,600 aviation brigade soldiers from Af­ghani­stan duty that saw the loss of two Black Hawk helicopter crews — one to pilot disorientation in a sandstorm and the other to a rocket-propelled grenade. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
A settlement between Hawaii County and the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands over tax debt from homesteaders remains elusive. Tribune-Herald.

The Intermediate Court of Appeals has kicked Hawaii Island rancher Freddy Nobriga’s cattle theft lawsuit against the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands back to 3rd Circuit Court, saying DHHL violated Nobriga’s right of due process when it rounded up and sold at least 115 head of Nobriga’s cattle without adequate notice. West Hawaii Today.

Ford seeks $30M Kona area shelter, center. West Hawaii Today.

Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School hopes to blaze a trail by becoming the first publicly funded school in the state to use hybrid buses. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation broke ground Thursday for a more than $7 million project that will increase cargo space at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor, as well as improve operational safety and efficiency for users. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council Water Resources Committee advanced a bill that authorizes the mayor and the director of the Department of Water Supply to declare "water shortages" and to impose higher rates for Maui County residents. Maui News.

Three real estate investment firms, including one formed by the co-founder of a company that created Hot Pockets, competed to buy a former Ritz-Carlton condominium and time-share resort on Maui at a Thursday foreclosure auction that resulted in a $100 million sale. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

After a whole morning ironing out details on the Kaua‘i Multimodal Land Transportation Plan, the Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously approved a resolution to adopt the plan as a policy guideline for the island. Garden Island.

It is no secret that pinpointing the stressors which have lead to the recent coral disease outbreak along Kaua‘i’s shores is going to require additional bodies, more funding and further study. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i teachers took to the streets Thursday afternoon, joining a statewide sign waving campaign. Garden Island.

Hawaii Shield Law in jeopardy, governor touts preschool, Honolulu considers city chickens, Maui seeks Higa's help finding auditor, Thirty Meter Telescope heads to hearing, monk seal speared, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Abercrombie testifies on education courtesy Hawaii Senate majority

State lawmakers should not wait for a constitutional amendment in 2014 that would allow public money to be spent on private preschool before launching a school readiness program, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Legislature is considering a plan for a statewide preschool program, one of Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s priorities this session. Associated Press.

A state law protecting journalists from revealing their sources will be a lot weaker if the Legislature keeps the amendments that the House Judiciary Committee has made to the bill, media experts say. Civil Beat.

The state House Judiciary Committee agreed Tuesday to make permanent a state law protecting journalists and bloggers from disclosing confidential sources or other information, but proposed expanding exceptions to the law to include a broader range of serious crimes and civil actions. Star-Advertiser.

Environmentalists and conservation advocates would have a greater say in the outcome of public land development projects under a proposed new development authority for state harbors and parks. Star-Advertiser.

The House Committee on Water and Land has scheduled a hearing on Saturday, Feb. 9, to address issues surrounding the controversial Public Land Development Corporation. Maui Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has said he does not need tax increases to balance his two-year budget draft, but the governor has proposed a significant boost in the hotel room tax to start a conversation about the state's long-term revenue needs. Star-Advertiser.

After reviewing hundreds of pieces of testimony, and a heated debate over process, power, politics and public input, House Judiciary Committee members narrowly killed controversial legislation that would have made firearms instructors civilly liable for incidents arising during their classes. Hawaii Reporter.

A recent Congressional study shows that women in general earn nearly 18 percent less than their male counterparts in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

With a wait list of more than 10,000 for public housing, the state may target fancy car drivers as a sign to excess disposable income to open up units for those more in need. KHON2.

Following through on a pledge to pursue measures aimed at improving accountability and transparency at the University of Hawaii, Senate President Donna Mercado Kim introduced a package of bills Wednesday that would limit some of the UH president's powers in procurement, require Board of Regents members be trained about their own policies and on state laws and adjust how regents are selected. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii gun enthusiasts are organizing to stop gun control bills from gaining any traction at the state Legislature. Associated Press.

courtesy NOAA

Authorities in Hawaii are investigating the spearing of a Hawaiian monk seal found Tuesday afternoon on Rabbit Island. Star-Advertiser.

Federal conservation officials are looking into reports of three whale-vessel collisions in less than 24 hours off the coast of Hawaii Island and Maui. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has been declared one of the "Terrible Ten" most regressive states for tax laws, by the nonpartisan Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, based in Wash., D.C. Star-Advertiser.

When it comes to taxes, Hawaii’s poor pick up more than their share of the tab, according to a new report. Tribune-Herald.

Statewide all plastic bags will be banned by 2015, but lawmakers have a plan for single-use bags between now and then, which they say will save the environment and taxpayers money. Hawaii News Now.

The plug has quietly been pulled on a plan by a band of entrepreneurs to buy Hawaii's $2.6 billion electric utility and convert it rather quickly to generate only renewable energy at a savings to consumers. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

While Dan Inouye's immense impact on Hawaii is difficult to measure, his association with the East-West Center is easily one of his most significant accomplishments. Civil Beat.

The first Honolulu City Council bill introduced this calendar year has already created quite a stir. The measure has to do with allowing chickens to be kept in residential areas. Hawaii Public Radio.

It looks like the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant will get a second digester that will turn sewage into fertilizer. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The long-running controversy over the proposed Thirty Meter Telescope atop Mauna Kea enters its next chapter Feb. 12, when the Board of Land and Natural Resources meets in Hilo to hear arguments following a contested case hearing over a conservation district use permit. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaiian Paradise Park residents may soon not have to travel so far to catch a bus. Tribune-Herald.

A veteran park ranger has been named chief of interpretation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Big Island Now.

Maui

Recently retired state Auditor Marion Higa may be helping Maui County with its hiring and development of its new auditor position, council members said Tuesday. Maui News.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is looking to lease up to 1,400 acres of its land on Maui to developers for renewable energy projects such as biomass, wind, solar or hydro. Pacific Business News.

The parking area between Iao Theater and Maui Sporting Goods is being proposed for a makeover that has some businesses in the area a little uneasy. Maui News.

State enforcement of administrative rules for offshore mooring at Mala Wharf and the Lahaina Small Boat Harbor led to the impounding of six vessels Tuesday. Maui News.

A man who spent 20 years in prison before his rape, kidnapping and burglary convictions were vacated and later dismissed is suing the state, Maui County and the Maui Police Department, alleging he was falsely arrested and wrongfully imprisoned. Maui News.

Kauai

The disagreements between the County Attorney’s Office and the former leadership at the Office of Prosecuting Attorney have re-ignited. Former Prosecutor Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho testified at a Kaua‘i County Council meeting Wednesday, accusing County Attorney Al Castillo of trading a lawsuit settlement for a job for his wife under the new OPA leadership. Garden Island.

Though Kauai residents flocked to hear the words of anti-GMO activists Dr. Vandana Shiva, Andrew Kimbrell and Walter Ritte, it remains to be seen whether their enthusiasm can be galvanized into effective political action. Honolulu Weekly.

Members of the Pacific Missile Range Facility’s Weapon Recovery Boat team pulled a Japanese buoy out of the ocean approximately 2 nautical miles west of Nohili Point on Jan. 18. Garden Island.

Oahu Publications, Inc. which publishes the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and MidWeek, has gained control of Kauai print media with its recent acquisition of The Garden Island newspaper. Honolulu Weekly.

Abercrombie wants to raise hotel tax, Hawaii Legislature kills fish protection bills, Hawaiian Electric zapped by legislative committee, Native Hawaiian students want tests in their own language, iconic Coco Palms could lose renovation permits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Royal Kona Resort (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Prompted by the record visitor arrivals, Gov. Neil Abercrombie is proposing to raise Hawaii's transient accommodations tax by 2 percentage points. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii fishermen organized successfully to kill a bill that would have limited the type of nets they use to fish. Associated Press.

A controversial bill to require holders of aquarium fish permits to specify all species collected, and in what collection areas, has been deferred indefinitely. West Hawaii Today.

They're back: gambling proposals at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Hawaii already has among the strictest firearms laws in the nation, and some of the most cumbersome registration and training requirements, but if key lawmakers get their way, the laws will become even tougher for firearms owners and anyone who lives in their home. Hawaii Reporter.

Holding signs that read, "No more unfair testing," hundreds of Hawaiian-immersion students and supporters gathered on the lawn of the Department of Education building Tuesday to call for the development of standardized assessments in the Hawaiian language. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. executives speaking at an informational briefing at the state Capitol on Tuesday got an earful from state legislators who complained the utility is not moving fast enough to reduce electric rates. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's electric rates are so high some residents have been forced to burn candles at night and cook on kiawe, lawmakers say. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. officials were hesitant Tuesday to pick one path as the sole avenue to reduce Hawaii’s high energy costs. West Hawaii Today.

It’s a well-known fact that Hawai’i has one of the highest electricity rates in the nation…and state lawmakers conducted an information hearing yesterday to find out what the public utilities are doing to bring costs down for local customers. Hawaii Public Radio.

Foster parents urged state legislators Tuesday to support a bill that would increase their monthly reimbursement checks for the first time since 1990. Star-Advertiser.

A bill introduced in the State Legislature aims to tighten the current seat belt law, and ultimately save lives. KHON2.

Lawmaker Raises Alarm About Geothermal Fracking in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Lawmakers Aim to Strengthen Laws Against Sex Offenders Targeting Children. Hawaii Reporter.

All of Hawaii's counties have passed bans on plastic shopping bags for most purchases, but state legislators now are proposing fees on all bags at checkout. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has selected nearly 100 cultural and community events and programs statewide to receive funding under its County Product Enrichment Program for 2013. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for January 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

Vice Speaker John Mizuno says he drafted a letter to William Aila, director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, urgently requesting a survey of any potential risks associated with a Kalihi Valley hillside after three boulders rolled down and damaged a home Monday morning. KITV4.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii's licensed practical nurses and medical assistants protested possible registered nurse layoffs by distributing informational leaflets Tuesday to members at the Hono­lulu Clinic and Moana­lua Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Big Island lawmakers are once again seeking to allow Hawaii County to use some of its fuel tax revenue to help subdivisions maintain their private roads. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. will withdraw a 4.2 percent rate increase request that would have raised the average homeowner’s bill by $8.32, according to Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Tribune-Herald.

It will cost at least $552 nightly for a private security service to patrol the Kawa Bay property purchased by the county, according to bids opened Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

First Wind officials said Tuesday that they have started work on a program to preserve the population of threatened or endangered Hawaiian seabirds in West Maui, several miles from the company’s Kaheawa Wind project. Pacific Business News.

A Coast Guard aircraft was forced to return to Oahu after being targeted by an individual with a laser pointer while flying into Kahului Airport on Maui on Monday night, authorities said. Maui Now.

Kauai
Kauai County's planning director filed a petition Tuesday to revoke permits issued to the property owner of Coco Palms Resort, citing inaction to restore and redevelop the historic site. Star-Advertiser.

Two decades after Hurricane ‘Iniki delivered a merciless blow to Coco Palms Resort in Wailua Beach, the iconic hotel — now a visual blight on the island’s busiest corridor — may have a much more difficult time returning to its former glory, after its permits to re-develop the property expired last week. Garden Island.

After many expansions, the Kekaha Landfill — the island’s only landfill — will reach capacity by 2021 or 2022, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Steven A. Hunt was named Kauai County director of finance by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Taxes, bag fee sought for watershed protection, homeless, public housing smoking ban mulled in Legislature, Maui to monitor vehicle use with eye in the sky, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Freshwater stream flows into Kawa Bay (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Environmental advocates are urging the Hawaii Legislature to help preserve Hawaii’s water by increasing taxes on high-end property sales. Associated Press.

Boosting funds for watershed and forest preservation programs, either through an increase in taxes on expensive real estate transactions or a fee on single-use plastic checkout bags, remains a priority for the Abercrombie administration, the state's land and natural resources director said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature: Thousands of Bills, So Little Time. Civil Beat.

Several Hawaii lawmakers want tougher ethics laws for lobbyists and public officials. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Filipino Chamber of Commerce says Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui will lead the organization's upcoming trade mission to the Philippines. Associated Press.

Hawaii’s consumer advocate has reached a settlement with the state’s major electric utility that rejects $60 million in expenditures that Hawaiian Electric Co. was hoping to recover from customers. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has agreed to reduce by $60 million the amount of revenue it will seek to recover from ratepayers as a result of a settlement the utility negotiated with the state consumer advocate. Star-Advertiser.

The number of new foreclosure lawsuits filed against Hawaii property owners stayed above 300 for a second consecutive month in December, as lenders continue to file more cases since state foreclosure law was overhauled in June. Star-Advertiser.

A bill seeking the establishment of a return-to-home program for homeless in Hawai’i is being considered at the state Legislature. Maui Now.

A bill that would provide an overnight parking lot for homeless persons narrowly survived a committee hearing at the House Monday morning. Garden Island.

More than 10-thousand families are on the wait-list for Public Housing in Hawai’i. As a result… state lawmakers want to curb systemic abuse and tighten the rules to qualify for low rental housing. Hawaii Public Radio.

Anyone living in public housing can forget about smoking at home if a proposed ban passes. KHON2.

Rock climbers lobby lawmakers. Bills to limit liability for rock climbing on state land. KITV4.

Conservationists say they've successfully eliminated harmful, non-native rats from remote, uninhabited Palmyra Atoll. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for January 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

The film industry brings roughly $180 million and 2,500 jobs to Hawaii each year, but productions that choose to film here are met by a dilapidated studio that has suffered from scarce funding and years of wear and tear. Civil Beat.

With tuition at the University of Hawaii rising 141 percent over the last 11 years, female students have found an unconventional method to cover the cost of education that can now cost nearly $10,000 a year for an undergraduate degree. They are signing up in record numbers with SeekingArrangement.com, a dating web site that openly boasts it will find them their perfect "Sugar Daddy." Hawaii Reporter.

The 40th Honolulu Marathon generated a record $132.8 million in visitor spending in December, according to a study released Monday by Hawaii Pacific University. Hawaii News Now.

Two boulders dislodged during heavy rain tumbled about 20 feet down a Kalihi Valley hillside early Monday morning, damaging a home and narrowly missing four people sleeping inside. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, former Governor Ben Cayetano, former Lt. Governor Duke Aiona, State Senator Sam Slom and former Senator Richard Henderson were among the people who spoke at a memorial service for Wilfred Clinton "Buddy" Soares on Saturday at Holy Trinity Church in Hawaii Kai. Hawaii Reporter.

On Facebook he describes himself as a "wounded warrior … very wounded." Schofield Barracks soldier Brendan Marrocco, the first service member to survive losing all four limbs in the Iraq War, received a double arm transplant Dec. 18, doctors revealed Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The state of Hawaii and Hawaiian Electric Co. have reached an agreement that will result in the withdrawal of a rate increase request submitted for the Big Island, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said in a statement. Pacific Business News.

Big Island legislators say they have serious concerns about a construction company’s decision to withdraw its bid for the Hawaii Community College at Palamanui project. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo Medical Center and other public health care facilities across the state face having to resort to “painful choices” as they deal with diminishing resources, according to an editorial distributed Monday by CEO Howard Ainsley. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. filed on Friday a final request for proposals for expanding geothermal power on the island. Tribune-Herald.

Flying steerage just took on a whole new meaning. Pacific Air Cargo, using 727 airplanes leased from Kalitta Air, is taking Big Island cattle to the West Coast on a weekly basis, CEO Beti Ward said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County has adopted a comprehensive vehicle use policy and has taken steps to use eye-in-the-sky technology to track employees' use of official vehicles. Maui News.

The Legislature is again trying to serve the counties with a footloose challenge, as two state senate bills are trying to get the counties find the elusive definition of dancing. Garden Island.

Five Mauians, including the late planner Chris Hart, will be honored for their work to preserve Maui's environment by the Maui Group of the Sierra Club at its annual meeting from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Kaunoa Senior Center in Spreckelsville. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i’s elected leaders say that Hawai‘i has tough gun laws and that it may be premature to enact more legislation without a deeper look. Garden Island.

County employees donated $18,900 in total to the Kaua‘i United way in 2012, officials announced this week. Garden Island.

Gay marriage, election reform, farm bills on Legislature's agenda, Kaiser Permanente cutting nurses, HELCO seeks geothermal energy, high court to hear medical marijuana case, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay marriage rally (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Hawaii advocates of gay marriage applauded the introduction of legislation this week that would give same-sex couples the same status, legal and symbolic, as opposite-sex couples. Civil Beat.

There's a new push to legalize same sex marriage in Hawaii, where Civil Unions are allowed. KITV4.

Hawaii lawmakers are pushing to reform the state elections process after a series of mishaps caused polling places to run out of ballots and open late last year. Associated Press.

The state Senate Agriculture Committee will hear public opinions on at least six bills related to incentives to local farmers Tuesday. The bills’ scope range from tax exemptions to planning for food security. Garden Island.

The Navy said it plans to cut some temporary workers in Hawaii in the spring, cancel a $35 million repair job on a Pearl Harbor destroyer and reduce base support and modernization by $75 million as part of at least $110 million in savings it says it needs to reach in Hawaii alone due to a federal budget shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

Kaiser Permanente Hawaii plans to eliminate nearly one-quarter of its clinic registered nurses, replacing some of them with lower-skilled licensed practical nurses and medical assistants. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Attorney General’s office is blasting a proposal aimed at countering the U.S. Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision, which opened the floodgates for secret cash to influence elections. Civil Beat.

The union representing Hawaii public school principals and the state Department of Education have reached an agreement on evaluations. Associated Press.

Troubled Waters: Budget Cuts Hamper An Unusual Ocean Research Project. Civil Beat.

Oahu
The city of Honolulu is preparing another property-related citation against the operator of Oahu's only auto racing venue, placing another black mark on the company's checkered history on that state-owned parcel. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island's electric utility is asking the Public Utilities Commission for permission to generate more geothermal energy for sale to customers. Associated Press.

Former state Rep. Jerry Chang says his primary focus this year will be to obtain $33 million from the Legislature to fund a building for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s College of Pharmacy. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear an appeal from a man convicted of promoting a detrimental drug when he tried to take his medical marijuana on a flight to Honolulu from Kona International Airport. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has released a new ungulate management plan that includes fencing and both lethal and non-lethal techniques. Tribune-Herald.

Coffee berry borer damage is resulting in diminished quality that could jeopardize the region’s position in the global coffee market, a grower and processor said Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County officials say the electric utility's reluctance to retire decades-old oil-fired generators is keeping electric costs high on the island. Civil Beat.

Care Homes by Hale Makua was blessed Friday as the Wailuku facility converts a closed wing at Maui's largest nursing home into a 26-resident adult residential care home. Maui News.


Kauai

Scientists aren’t the only ones concerned about the future of Kaua‘i’s diseased coral reefs. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Police Commission held its first meeting of the year with new board leadership in place. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, Oracle Corp.’s billionaire CEO who bought the majority of Lanai last year, has laid out pretty distinct plans for the future of Hawaii's Pineapple Island. Pacific Business News.

A bungalow-style hotel, a desalination plant and a new airport runway are part of billionaire and new Lanai owner Larry Ellison's vision for the island, Lanai residents said Friday. Maui News.