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Improved Waikiki Beach greets Japanese ‘Golden Week,’ Honolulu sewer moratorium halts development, Oahu travel agent disappears with Arkansas band’s…
Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News Beach users gave good reviews Thursday to the just-completed sand replenishment project that widened Waikiki Beach from the Duke Kahanamoku statue to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Star-Advertiser. Riding on three months of strong momentum, Hawaii’s tourism industry is already anticipating a healthy summer. Star-Advertiser. A 27 percent gain in visitors from Japan last month bodes well for this weekend’s start of Golden Week, traditionally a high-volume period for Japanese tourists in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. The official at the center of the General Services Administration scandal over a lavish Las Vegas conference was reprimanded in 2011 for appearing in a campaign ad for Sen. Daniel Inouye, Roll Call, a Washington, D.C., magazine, reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Legislature State House and Senate negotiators were still working late Thursday to reach an agreement on the state budget, a stalemate that left dozens of bills in limbo ahead of tonight’s procedural deadline to complete work before the legislative session ends. Star-Advertiser. Passage of the single-most important bill at the Hawaii Legislature is being held up by the single-most controversial bill before lawmakers this session. Civil Beat. A measure that would bring most of Hawaii’s 1,600 mainland-incarcerated prisoners back is nearing key deadlines at the Capitol. The trend is already starting. KHON2 . The state Legislature will be voting on Hawaiian language mandates in the coming week. Associated Press. Legislators effectively killed a bill Thursday that would have extended the University of Hawaii’s controversial exemption from the state procurement code, a move hailed by some as a victory for government fairness and transparency but which UH lamented as likely to increase construction costs. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii lawmakers are poised to pass two bills to overhaul the state’s charter school system. But the focus has centered more on what the proposed law says charter schools don’t have to do than any new requirements or expectations. Civil Beat. Selling or smoking the synthetic drug “spice” is now a felony in Hawaii. KHON2. Laura Thielen Civil Beat has obtained portions of an email exchange between members of the party’s State Central Committee conducted between April 10 and April 13 — the latter date just four days before Laura Thielen announced that she would run in the primary without the party’s blessing. Civil Beat. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union has its first woman president. Hawaii Public Radio. About 9,000 U.S. Marines stationed on Okinawa will be moved to Hawaii, Guam and other locations in the Asia-Pacific under a U.S.-Japanese agreement announced Thursday. Associated Press. Hawaii is one of only two states where consumers won’t see a piece of an estimated $1.3 billion in rebates from health insurers who spent more on administrative expenses and profits than allowed by the federal health care reform act, according to a new analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Pacific Business News. State roundup for April 27. Associated Press. Oahu The City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services has issued a moratorium on new sewer connections from Halawa to Pearl City. Hawaii News Now. The state granted owners of the Hale‘iwa Farmers’ Market a second extension to vacate the site where they’ve held the popular weekend event for three years. Star-Advertiser. Honolulu City Councilmember Ann Kobayashi has introduced a bill to amend the historic residential property tax exemption. Hawaii Reporter. The plastic bag ban is still three years from starting, if Mayor Peter Carlisle approves it, but the movement toward biodegradable bags has already begun. Hawaii News Now. Public housing getting modern renovations with private help. KITV4. Nearly four decades since starting a renowned cookie empire, Wally Amos is poised to launch a company using the original recipe that made him Famous Amos. Star-Advertiser. Officials at Southside High School in Fort Smith, Ark., have contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Justice after an Oahu travel agent told them via email he had lost $267,500 paid by the school for a summer trip to Waikiki. KITV4. Hawaii Mufi Hannemann A U.S. representative’s job, congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann told Rotarians Thursday, is to advocate first for state residents. West Hawaii Today. The site of the Big Island’s first geothermal power project may once again be put back to use. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii’s Doppler radars will be shut down, one at a time, beginning in May for upgrades to a next-generation system that will allow for better weather forecasts. Tribune-Herald. We’ve failed: Hawaii County’s air is the second worst, by county, in the country for annual particle pollution, the American Lung Association says. West Hawaii Today. Maui The new hearing officer in the case challenging a University of Hawaii telescope project on Maui is also UH president M.R.C. Greenwood’s personal attorney. Civil Beat. Maui Electric Co. is installing new, “smart” power meters that will enable the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Associated Press. Maui Electric Co. has begun installing new, “smart” power meters in Maui Meadows, enabling the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Maui News. Judge Adrianne Heely The state Senate confirmed Adrianne Heely on Wednesday as a District Family Court judge for Maui’s 2nd Circuit Court. Maui News. Adrianne Heely has been confirmed as a family court judge on Maui. Associated Press. Maui Judge Joseph E. Cardoza today was named Chief Judge and Administrative Judge for the Second Circuit Court. Maui Now. The long-awaited Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport hotel is set to open in June, a month earlier than previously announced. Maui News. Kauai After a few deferrals and various amendments, a bill to regulate solar farms on agricultural lands passed a final vote Wednesday by the Kaua‘i County Council, although some council members wanted more time for scrutiny. Garden Island. The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution to encourage schools to adopt anti-bullying policies and regulations. Garden Island. Reid Judson is suing Norberto Garcia and Kaua‘i County for alleged negligence in an officer-involved automobile crash. Garden Island. Molokai A high-voltage undersea transmission cable planned for Massachusetts has been killed by one of the nation’s major utilities because it would be a “high-risk” installation, too expensive to construct, with too many severe environmental impacts and too difficult to maintain. Molokai Dispatch.
Continue reading...Improved Waikiki Beach greets Japanese ‘Golden Week,’ Honolulu sewer moratorium halts development, Oahu travel agent disappears with Arkansas band’s…
27. April 2012
Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News Beach users gave good reviews Thursday to the just-completed sand replenishment project that widened Waikiki Beach from the Duke Kahanamoku statue to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Star-Advertiser. Riding on three months of strong momentum, Hawaii’s tourism industry is already anticipating a healthy summer. Star-Advertiser. A 27 percent gain in visitors from Japan last month bodes well for this weekend’s start of Golden Week, traditionally a high-volume period for Japanese tourists in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser. The official at the center of the General Services Administration scandal over a lavish Las Vegas conference was reprimanded in 2011 for appearing in a campaign ad for Sen. Daniel Inouye, Roll Call, a Washington, D.C., magazine, reported Thursday. Star-Advertiser. Legislature State House and Senate negotiators were still working late Thursday to reach an agreement on the state budget, a stalemate that left dozens of bills in limbo ahead of tonight’s procedural deadline to complete work before the legislative session ends. Star-Advertiser. Passage of the single-most important bill at the Hawaii Legislature is being held up by the single-most controversial bill before lawmakers this session. Civil Beat. A measure that would bring most of Hawaii’s 1,600 mainland-incarcerated prisoners back is nearing key deadlines at the Capitol. The trend is already starting. KHON2 . The state Legislature will be voting on Hawaiian language mandates in the coming week. Associated Press. Legislators effectively killed a bill Thursday that would have extended the University of Hawaii’s controversial exemption from the state procurement code, a move hailed by some as a victory for government fairness and transparency but which UH lamented as likely to increase construction costs. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii lawmakers are poised to pass two bills to overhaul the state’s charter school system. But the focus has centered more on what the proposed law says charter schools don’t have to do than any new requirements or expectations. Civil Beat. Selling or smoking the synthetic drug “spice” is now a felony in Hawaii. KHON2. Laura Thielen Civil Beat has obtained portions of an email exchange between members of the party’s State Central Committee conducted between April 10 and April 13 — the latter date just four days before Laura Thielen announced that she would run in the primary without the party’s blessing. Civil Beat. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union has its first woman president. Hawaii Public Radio. About 9,000 U.S. Marines stationed on Okinawa will be moved to Hawaii, Guam and other locations in the Asia-Pacific under a U.S.-Japanese agreement announced Thursday. Associated Press. Hawaii is one of only two states where consumers won’t see a piece of an estimated $1.3 billion in rebates from health insurers who spent more on administrative expenses and profits than allowed by the federal health care reform act, according to a new analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Pacific Business News. State roundup for April 27. Associated Press. Oahu The City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services has issued a moratorium on new sewer connections from Halawa to Pearl City. Hawaii News Now. The state granted owners of the Hale‘iwa Farmers’ Market a second extension to vacate the site where they’ve held the popular weekend event for three years. Star-Advertiser. Honolulu City Councilmember Ann Kobayashi has introduced a bill to amend the historic residential property tax exemption. Hawaii Reporter. The plastic bag ban is still three years from starting, if Mayor Peter Carlisle approves it, but the movement toward biodegradable bags has already begun. Hawaii News Now. Public housing getting modern renovations with private help. KITV4. Nearly four decades since starting a renowned cookie empire, Wally Amos is poised to launch a company using the original recipe that made him Famous Amos. Star-Advertiser. Officials at Southside High School in Fort Smith, Ark., have contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Justice after an Oahu travel agent told them via email he had lost $267,500 paid by the school for a summer trip to Waikiki. KITV4. Hawaii Mufi Hannemann A U.S. representative’s job, congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann told Rotarians Thursday, is to advocate first for state residents. West Hawaii Today. The site of the Big Island’s first geothermal power project may once again be put back to use. Tribune-Herald. Hawaii’s Doppler radars will be shut down, one at a time, beginning in May for upgrades to a next-generation system that will allow for better weather forecasts. Tribune-Herald. We’ve failed: Hawaii County’s air is the second worst, by county, in the country for annual particle pollution, the American Lung Association says. West Hawaii Today. Maui The new hearing officer in the case challenging a University of Hawaii telescope project on Maui is also UH president M.R.C. Greenwood’s personal attorney. Civil Beat. Maui Electric Co. is installing new, “smart” power meters that will enable the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Associated Press. Maui Electric Co. has begun installing new, “smart” power meters in Maui Meadows, enabling the utility to remotely monitor electricity fed to more than 100 residents taking part in the Maui smart-grid demonstration project. Maui News. Judge Adrianne Heely The state Senate confirmed Adrianne Heely on Wednesday as a District Family Court judge for Maui’s 2nd Circuit Court. Maui News. Adrianne Heely has been confirmed as a family court judge on Maui. Associated Press. Maui Judge Joseph E. Cardoza today was named Chief Judge and Administrative Judge for the Second Circuit Court. Maui Now. The long-awaited Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport hotel is set to open in June, a month earlier than previously announced. Maui News. Kauai After a few deferrals and various amendments, a bill to regulate solar farms on agricultural lands passed a final vote Wednesday by the Kaua‘i County Council, although some council members wanted more time for scrutiny. Garden Island. The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution to encourage schools to adopt anti-bullying policies and regulations. Garden Island. Reid Judson is suing Norberto Garcia and Kaua‘i County for alleged negligence in an officer-involved automobile crash. Garden Island. Molokai A high-voltage undersea transmission cable planned for Massachusetts has been killed by one of the nation’s major utilities because it would be a “high-risk” installation, too expensive to construct, with too many severe environmental impacts and too difficult to maintain. Molokai Dispatch.
Continue reading...Do you recommend going to a luau on your Hawaii vacation?
24. April 2012
Readers often ask for my thoughts about luaus. Are they worth the time, money and effort? Are they touristy? Are luaus authentic? Those are all great questions, but there’s probably not a one-size-fits-all answer. What’s worth it to me might not be worth it to you. In my opinion, I think going to a luau is definitely worth planning into your Hawaii vacation. For around $90, you get to sample Polynesian food and watch a colorful Polynesian dance show. Luaus feature traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian food that you might not find on a resort menu. For example, many luaus include lau lau which is pork or fish wrapped in a taro or ti leaf and cooked in an imu (underground oven). Kalua pork is another luau staple that’s cooked in an imu. Of course no luau is complete without at least sampling a taste of poi. Luaus give you the opportunity to try all these traditional foods. Most luaus serve a buffet dinner, though some high-end luaus will offer table service. A couple of luaus with table service are Maui’s Feast at Lele and the Big Island’s Hilton Waikoloa Village’s Legends of the Pacific . My favorite part of a luau is the Polynesian dance show. Most luaus feature the dances and music from all the major Polynesian Islands. The colorful costumes and graceful dancers capture your attention. I’ve probably been to a dozen or so luaus throughout Hawaii and I’ve not seen a show that’s disappointed yet. Most luaus end with a Samoan fire knife dance that are absolutely thrilling to watch. Are luaus touristy? Yes, they are definitely touristy. At just about every luau, you’ll hear cheesy jokes that will still make you laugh. You’ll also see over the top costumes. For example, you’ll usually see female dancers wearing coconut shell bras. I could do without that glitz and glamour, to be honest. Here’s our video of Fia Fia luau at the JW Marriott Ihilani on Oahu. This video will give you a flavor of a typical luau show – there’s a taste of all the Polynesian islands mixed with a bit of entertaining humor. (Email subscribers: click here to access the Fia Fia video .) As for the authenticity of luaus, I can’t speak to that with authority because I am not Hawaiian. My impression is that there are aspects of luaus that are probably authentic, such as the food and the hula dancing. As a whole, luaus are set up to appeal to tourists and entertain. I guess the best analogy I can use is that if you host a Christmas dinner at your home for your family, that’s your authentic celebration. If you were to invite a large group of strangers to your Christmas dinner, you’re probably going to try to make it more appealing to the masses. In that case, you’d probably try to put on more of a show in order to entertain. If you want to try to attend an authentic luau, I’ll share the same advice I was given — check the local papers for fundraiser luaus. Those luaus are usually put on by locals for locals. If you’re thinking of planning a luau into your Hawaii vacation, check out this article to help you choose the luau that’s right for you – How to choose a Hawaiian luau . In addition, I’ve written a series of posts with luau reviews, costs and schedules organized by island. I do update them periodically. Kauai luaus – schedules, costs, reviews Big Island luaus – prices, reviews, schedules Maui luaus – prices, schedules, reviews Oahu luaus that I’ve reviewed are Ali’I Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center and their amazing Polynesian show HA: Breath of Life Fia Fia at the JW Marriott Ihilani Have you been to a luau in Hawaii? Which one did you go to? Do you think going to a luau is worth the money and time? © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...Do you recommend going to a luau on your Hawaii vacation?
24. April 2012
Readers often ask for my thoughts about luaus. Are they worth the time, money and effort? Are they touristy? Are luaus authentic? Those are all great questions, but there’s probably not a one-size-fits-all answer. What’s worth it to me might not be worth it to you. In my opinion, I think going to a luau is definitely worth planning into your Hawaii vacation. For around $90, you get to sample Polynesian food and watch a colorful Polynesian dance show. Luaus feature traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian food that you might not find on a resort menu. For example, many luaus include lau lau which is pork or fish wrapped in a taro or ti leaf and cooked in an imu (underground oven). Kalua pork is another luau staple that’s cooked in an imu. Of course no luau is complete without at least sampling a taste of poi. Luaus give you the opportunity to try all these traditional foods. Most luaus serve a buffet dinner, though some high-end luaus will offer table service. A couple of luaus with table service are Maui’s Feast at Lele and the Big Island’s Hilton Waikoloa Village’s Legends of the Pacific . My favorite part of a luau is the Polynesian dance show. Most luaus feature the dances and music from all the major Polynesian Islands. The colorful costumes and graceful dancers capture your attention. I’ve probably been to a dozen or so luaus throughout Hawaii and I’ve not seen a show that’s disappointed yet. Most luaus end with a Samoan fire knife dance that are absolutely thrilling to watch. Are luaus touristy? Yes, they are definitely touristy. At just about every luau, you’ll hear cheesy jokes that will still make you laugh. You’ll also see over the top costumes. For example, you’ll usually see female dancers wearing coconut shell bras. I could do without that glitz and glamour, to be honest. Here’s our video of Fia Fia luau at the JW Marriott Ihilani on Oahu. This video will give you a flavor of a typical luau show – there’s a taste of all the Polynesian islands mixed with a bit of entertaining humor. (Email subscribers: click here to access the Fia Fia video .) As for the authenticity of luaus, I can’t speak to that with authority because I am not Hawaiian. My impression is that there are aspects of luaus that are probably authentic, such as the food and the hula dancing. As a whole, luaus are set up to appeal to tourists and entertain. I guess the best analogy I can use is that if you host a Christmas dinner at your home for your family, that’s your authentic celebration. If you were to invite a large group of strangers to your Christmas dinner, you’re probably going to try to make it more appealing to the masses. In that case, you’d probably try to put on more of a show in order to entertain. If you want to try to attend an authentic luau, I’ll share the same advice I was given — check the local papers for fundraiser luaus. Those luaus are usually put on by locals for locals. If you’re thinking of planning a luau into your Hawaii vacation, check out this article to help you choose the luau that’s right for you – How to choose a Hawaiian luau . In addition, I’ve written a series of posts with luau reviews, costs and schedules organized by island. I do update them periodically. Kauai luaus – schedules, costs, reviews Big Island luaus – prices, reviews, schedules Maui luaus – prices, schedules, reviews Oahu luaus that I’ve reviewed are Ali’I Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center and their amazing Polynesian show HA: Breath of Life Fia Fia at the JW Marriott Ihilani Have you been to a luau in Hawaii? Which one did you go to? Do you think going to a luau is worth the money and time? © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...Waikiki sand project bogs down, Akaka treated for dehydration, PGA announces Hawaii tourney, Maui sued for wastewater discharge, Big Island garbage…
17. April 2012
Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News The state’s $2.2 million project to replenish sand on Waikiki beach is running behind schedule and crews are racing to finish it before the summer, according to state officials. KITV4. U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka was treated for dehydration on Saturday, but “is fine and headed back to work tonight,” a spokesman for the senator said today. Star-Advertiser. Sen. Daniel Akaka, 87, is “feeling good” after his family sought medical attention for him “out of an abundance of caution” over the weekend, a spokesman said. Civil Beat. Former Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann continues to be the leading fundraiser in the primary campaign for the open 2nd congressional district seat, although Honolulu City Council member Tulsi Gabbard is holding her own in the race for campaign cash. Civil Beat. Members of the Native Hawaiian community, legal experts and environmentalists gathered at Iolani Palace Monday to protest a Commission on Water Resources Management appointment. Associated Press. More than 100 organizations and individuals came together today to oppose Governor Abercrombie’s nomination of Ted Yamamura to the state Commission on Water and Resource Management. Hawaii Independent. A bill that would have required new performance evaluations for Hawaii teachers has died a few weeks before the end of the state’s legislative session. Associated Press. Wrapping up a whirlwind four-day visit to the islands, the Dalai Lama visited with high-schoolers Monday and urged them to work to make a “happier future” through compassion and nonviolence, before heading to Kualoa Regional Park to bless the voyaging canoe Hokule‘a in preparation for a round-the-world sail. Star-Advertiser. The Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama said Monday he didn’t know until his latest trip to Hawaii what exactly the word “aloha” meant. Associated Press. In an extraordinary ceremony at Kualoa Beach Park in Windward Oahu, the 14th Dalai Lama blessed and consecrated the double-hull wayfaring canoe Hokulea. Civil Beat. The Dalai Lama is visiting Hawai`i to discuss similarities between the Hawaiian spirit of Aloha and the Buddhist spirit of compassion towards others. Hawaii Public Radio . The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Division is discussing “concurrent jurisdiction” with the state this year, which means the federal agency may take over many of the state functions. However, both the state and federal government officials involved are refusing to release details about the plan. Hawaii Reporter. Hawaii Marines are fighting the drug trade in Afghanistan by using helicopters to conduct raids. Hawaii News Now. The PGA Champions Tour’s Pacific Links Hawaii Championship was officially announced during a press conference at the Plaza Club in downtown Monday with Hall of Fame golfer Greg Norman, who is playing in the event, singing Hawaii’s praises as a great location to tee off. Pacific Business News. State roundup for April 17. Associated Press. Oahu Hawaii Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz State Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz wants the city’s rail system to make money, or at least break even, and is pushing for a bill that would encourage urban development and redevelopment on land around planned transit stations. Star-Advertiser. About 30 powerful big business leaders formed a group, Move Oahu Forward, in February, with the backing of Hawaii’s Senior Senator Daniel Inouye, and announced their organization members today. They hope to convince the public the rail will improve Oahu. Hawaii Reporter. City work crews backed by Honolulu police officers are scheduled this morning to clear out the last of up to 200 people who have been living on a 1-mile stretch of vegetated beachfront just northeast of the public portion of Keaau Beach Park. It is the last large homeless encampment on the Waianae Coast. Star-Advertiser. With at least one loose boulder still perched above his Kalihi neighborhood, Keola Cachola made his first foray to the state Capitol on Monday in search of a sympathetic ear — and $250,000 to clear a hillside after two large boulders rumbled down and damaged homes Thursday night. Star-Advertiser. State officials said Monday they plan to do emergency work on the hillside above homes in Kalihi Valley that were damaged when several large boulders fell late last week. Hawaii News Now. An erosion problem at Ala Moana Beach is exposing a rocky coastline. Now the city is working on a plan to replenish the sand. Hawaii News Now. Hawaiian Airlines became the only carrier to offer year-round daily service between Honolulu and Fukuoka. Star-Advertiser. Work is under way to fix street lights along the H1 and H2 Freeways that have been out for years, after they were hit by copper thieves. KHON2. Hawaii A Hawaii County official on Monday acknowledged the county has already started sending most of East Hawaii’s garbage to the West Hawaii landfill, even as debate rages over the best solution to the island’s growing trash problem. West Hawaii Today. Hunters hired by the Big Island Invasive Species Committee bagged their first axis deer last Wednesday on the southern end of the island, signaling the start of an effort to eliminate their small but potentially destructive population. Tribune-Herald. Three Kailua-Kona public schools are getting nearly $7.8 million of overdue improvements. West Hawaii Today. Hawaii County elections officials are proceeding with elections preparations, including mailing updated voter registration cards, as though the state’s district maps are finalized. West Hawaii Today. Big Island woman accused of more than $2 million in false claims. Associated Press. Maui Four community groups filed a federal lawsuit today against the Maui County for alleged violations of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui Now. Four environmental groups filed a federal lawsuit Monday seeking more than $60 million in civil penalties to stop Maui County from continuing to discharge partially treated sewage into injection wells at the Lahaina Wastewater Treatment Plant. Star-Advertiser. A Maui artist will soon see Pope Benedict XVI as the pontiff blesses one of the Kihei man’s bronze Saint Damien sculptures in Rome on Wednesday. Maui News. Kauai The North Shore Lion’s Club served more than 700 pancake breakfasts Sunday at a fundraiser for scholarships, scouting, youth basketball and other programs supported by the nonprofit organization. Garden Island.
Continue reading...Hawaii government conflicted over same-sex marriage, state short 600 doctors, Dalai Lama brings message of peace through aloha, bridge fixed for…
16. April 2012
Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2012 All Hawaii News Gov. Neil Abercrombie opposes participation by a Christian group in a court case to defend state marriage laws that restrict marriage to a man and a woman. But Loretta Fuddy, his director of the Department of Health, says the Hawaii Family Forum should be included in one of the nation’s most important cases. Star-Advertiser. U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye A spokesman for Sen. Daniel Inouye said there’s no truth to an anonymously-sourced KHON report that the senator was hospitalized in Hawaii this weekend. Civil Beat. Senator Daniel Inouye’s office says he returns to Washington, D.C. today and is perfectly healthy. KHON2. Hawaii’s doctor shortage has long been a problem. But there is now hard data that show just how severe the shortfall is.
Continue reading...First-Time Oahu Visitors’ Trip Report– Part 2 of 2
11. April 2012
I hope you enjoyed reading part one of Erin’s Oahu trip report . In part two, Erin and her husband move from Waikiki Beach up to Oahu’s North Shore. —- After four days of Waikiki, we were very ready for the second part of our trip – Oahu’s famous North Shore. We’d splurged on two nights at Turtle Bay Resort in the name of a very overdue mini-honeymoon. We were not disappointed! Our rental car company had oversold their cars, so our trip day started out a bit stressful. We decided to splurge and get a Jeep for the remainder of the trip – although expensive, it was worth every penny! We took the top off and enjoyed a meandering trip up the coast. Some days, it really is more about the journey than the destination. Everything about that day that started out so stressful ended in wonderful. The North Shore is a big change from Waikiki, and we were very happy to follow up a few days in Waikiki with a few days of Turtle Bay. We arrived at Turtle Bay and were immediately greeted by the best bellman I have ever met. He waited with our bags while I went to check in, and then helped us to our room. We were informed at check-in that we’d been upgraded to the Ali’i Presidential Suite ! I rode up with the bellman to unpack while my husband parked the car. The whole way up, he chatted with me about his favorite things to do at the resort, and when we got to the room, he discreetly ignored my jaw hitting the floor as he showed me around the room. To say that our accommodations were amazing would be a gross understatement! He told us that the room used to be living quarters for the GM of the hotel. That GM was living the good life! From the lanai in our bedroom, we could see the swimming beach and activities on the south side of the resort. From our living area, we could see the pools and the waves crashing on the north side of the resort. Yup, we had views of two separate beaches from our room! The furnishings in the room were beautiful without being overdone. We had two bathrooms, a gorgeous four poster bed, a nice kitchen and dining area, and a living room that would have been perfect for hanging out if we would have spent any time in the room. The accommodations were amazing, coming in second only to the staff and grounds of the resort. Every single staff member we encountered was helpful, friendly, and offered great suggestions for dining and activities to enjoy while visiting. The first night we were there, we grabbed a cocktail from the Hang Ten Bar and found seats to watch the sun go down and enjoy the drum circle and hula dancers. We were not disappointed. Because our time at Turtle Bay was so short, we had to make the most of it. After a quick meeting with a hotel concierge, we booked a catamaran trip for the next morning, and some clear-bottomed kayaks for the following day. The catamaran trip we took left from nearby Hale’iwa Bay. The crew was awesome, and the Ho’o Nanea’s smaller size made for great whale watching. We were very glad that we waited and did this trip instead of one of the busier trips near Waikiki. We saw more whales than we expected, and two of them were happy to show off for our boat, breeching several times. It was a great show, and well worth the time! We did get a bit wet on the trip, so if you’re going to spend some time exploring Hale’iwa after your trip, I’d recommend keeping some dry clothes in the car. We didn’t plan well for the water, and used our dripping clothes as an excuse to do a bit of shopping in town. After shopping, we stopped for lunch at the highly recommended Luibueno’s for some fish tacos. We planned on eating light to save room for the shrimp trucks later that afternoon, but failed miserably. The food was excellent, and we left stuffed. We cruised back to Turtle Bay and wandered the grounds a bit and then hit the beach. The swimming area at the resort is great, and was perfect for a relaxing afternoon. For dinner we headed to Ola at Turtle Bay, based on recommendations from Sheila. Wow. To say this meal was amazing would be an understatement! I’m still craving those kalua pork nachos! The restaurant had a great open-air concept, and even had tables out on the beach. We opted to eat inside, as it was a bit windy that night. Everything about the meal from our server to the ambiance to the food was perfect. I will be dreaming about Ola for a long time to come. On the last morning of our trip, we headed down for a morning trip with Shaka Kayaks . I have always loved sea turtles, and this was the perfect way to see them up close without disturbing them. Our guides Sian and Drew were awesome, and had an unending supply of knowledge about the area, the islands, and of course, the honu (or sea turtle). We had a great time kayaking, learning about the area, and hiking up to see Kawela Bay from a different perspective. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to end the trip. Our favorite things from Turtle Bay: • The scenery. Wow, I could go on for days talking about how beautiful this resort is. Bold, crashing waves, calm waters, and beautifully manicured grounds are the perfect setting for a resort. • The staff. From the bartenders to the front desk to the cleaning staff, everyone we encountered had a smile on their face and helpful information to pass on. • The food. Oh, the food. Every single thing we ate while visiting Turtle Bay was wonderfully prepared. The serving sizes were good, and the food was delicious! • The cocktails. In close competition with the food. If you visit Turtle Bay, order a Monkey’s Lunch. You will not be disappointed! It’s a delicious meal and a cocktail all in one! • Honu. Honu, honu, honu! I love sea turtles. There are a lot of them chillin’ around the resort. • Our room. Did I mention we stayed in the presidential suite? Yeah, we felt pretty special. If a honeymoon can only be two and a half days, do it this way. Ah-mazing. • The family friendly atmosphere. I am already planning a trip back as a family. Our two year old would love the water, the activities, and the grounds. Turtle Bay does a great job with this. The resort is family friendly, but somehow there was not a bit of kid overload. We never felt overwhelmed or that we couldn’t enjoy our adult time on the trip. • The North Shore. Such a calm, relaxing change from the energy of Waikiki. It was the perfect place to unwind after a week of busy. The waves are like nothing I’ve seen anywhere else, and some fun in the sun is just what the doctor ordered in the middle of our cold Colorado February. Things we weren’t thrilled about: • The cost. While the trip was perfect, that perfection did not come cheap. The rooms are pricey, and so is the food. That being said, I’d do it all again. I’m a huge fan of the resort. • Transportation options. Because of the location of the resort, it is fairly expensive to get there from the airport (or from Waikiki). You’ll either need to plan to rent a car, or pay for a shuttle service, which is about $80 per person each way. • The spa. I didn’t get a chance to indulge in one single treatment. Next time, sign me up for an oceanside massage! • Leaving. I was absolutely not ready to leave when our time was up. Unfortunately, our plans for a meandering trip back towards the airport and a visit to Pearl Harbor were squelched when I realized that our plane was due to depart four hours earlier than I had planned for. Oops! We made a mad dash back down the coast, and made our flight with minutes to spare. Not really the mellow, relaxing end of a trip that we’d planned for, but we did feel pretty awesome for making the flight in the nick of time. All in all, the trip was a great success! — Mahalo to Erin for sharing her Oahu trip report and beautiful photos! © Go Visit Hawaii – Republication of this entire post is prohibited without prior permission. Using extracts of less than 100 words are permitted with full attribution and link back to GoVisitHawaii.com .
Continue reading...Drone can’t patrol Honolulu Harbor, Hawaii judges low paid, no state preschool, new airline coming, environmentalists rally against development bills,…
10. April 2012
Aircraft over Honolulu Harbor (c) 2012 All Hawaii News The state Department of Transportation’s Harbors Division has been unable to use an unmanned drone aircraft purchased with $75,000 in federal grant money to provide security at Honolulu Harbor because it falls within restricted airspace near Honolulu International Airport. Hawaii News Now. Hawaii’s state judges are among the lowest paid in the nation — and their salaries won’t be improving anytime soon given legislative pay cuts that have been extended through the end of next year. Civil Beat. Hawaii remains among a minority of states without a state-funded preschool program, according to a new report that also shows spending for preschool programs in other states is declining. Eleven states didn’t offer state-funded programs in 2011, up from 10 in 2010. Star-Advertiser. Banning or charging fees for plastic bags at the check-out counter could be having unintended consequences. Civil Beat. Several measures moving forward at the capitol would exempt state and private-partnership developments from environmental and planning rules. Opponents rallied at the capitol ahead of Tuesday’s votes on four of the bills. KHON2. The state Legislature has taken another step toward adopting labeling protections for Hawaii-grown tea after recently leaving the issue to steep. Tribune-Herald. What Do Hawaii Lawmakers Have Against Ethics Code? (commentary) Civil Beat. If you care about holding government officials’ feet to the fire when it comes to public records, you should be concerned about a bill the Hawaii Office of Information Practices is pushing at the Legislature. (commentary) Civil Beat. Allegiant Air, a low-cost, Las Vegas-based airline that primarily serves small cities, is entering the Hawaii market. Star-Advertiser . Oahu A contractor may soon be able to move forward with construction of a key support facility needed to build the $5.27 billion Honolulu rail project, but rail opponents say the plans for the “precast” facility could be the basis for new court challenges. Star-Advertiser. Honolulu bus stop (c) 2012 All Hawaii News The city says soaring costs are to blame for a consolidation of bus services this summer. KHON2. 230 signatures and counting.That’s how many bus riders are demanding that the City not change the current #14 route. KHON2. A higher profile in Asia and the Pacific is in the works for Fort Shafter and within the ranks of the Army with construction of a new 330,000-square-foot headquarters under way as well as an effort to upgrade the three-star command to four stars. Star-Advertiser. The Honolulu Zoo’s accreditation has been renewed after exhibit upgrades, more staffing and new signage were put in place in response to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums deferring renewal a year ago because standards were not being met. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Motorists frustrated by construction delays along the Hamakua Coast can expect to soon to get some relief. Tribune-Herald. A burned-out motor that caused the breakdown of a South Kona well is causing the county Department of Water Supply to issue health advisories and a voluntary water conservation. West Hawaii Today. Mauna Kea (c) 2012 All Hawaii News Mauna Kea remains one of Hawaii’s treasures. It’s a center of both science and spirituality. HPR’s Noe Tanigawa recently made a special trip to Mauna Kea…beginning at the home of a family in Waimea with unique ties to the sacred mountain. Hawaii Public Radio. Maui Maui County has a state entomologist again after the position was lost to budget cuts in 2009. Associated Press. Using a net, Mach Fukada swept over grasses and plants in a wetland area off a parking lot at Kanaha Beach Park last week. Maui News. The County of Maui, Department of Public Works proposes to conduct roadway repairs to a section of Kahekili Highway between Mile Markers 15 and 16 in the Kahakuloa district of Maui. Maui Now. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens will hold an Earth Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Maui News. Kauai The Kaua‘i County Fire Department on Monday asked for new staff members and better equipment for the next fiscal year. Garden Island. The county Civil Defense Agency asked the Kaua‘i County Council on Monday for a reduced operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Garden Island.
Continue reading...Honolulu No. 2 vacation destination, lawsuit challenges election maps, zip lines not regulated, Lanai hunters miffed at film crews, Maui council…
9. April 2012
Waikiki (c) 2012 All Hawaii News Honolulu was second on a list of the top five summer land vacation destinations led by the home of Disney World, Orlando, Fla., and that included Rome, London, and Anaheim, Calif., home to Disneyland. Pacific Business News. A state legislator and five registered voters filed a federal lawsuit Friday charging that the state Reapportionment Plan violates the U.S. Constitution by excluding some 108,000 temporary residents who are military members, military dependents or university students from out of state. Star-Advertiser. Six Oahu residents filed a lawsuit Friday in U.S. District Court in Honolulu, challenging the constitutionality of the new state House and Senate maps. West Hawaii Today. A lawsuit filed Friday asks a three-judge federal court to enforce the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution and require the State to count all residents of Hawaii. (commentary) Hawaii Reporter. Building on the marquee value of movies such as “The Descendants” and television shows like “Hawaii Five-0,” state lawmakers are discussing whether to enhance tax credits for film and digital media production and offer new incentives to hire local workers. Star-Advertiser. A Senate bill to regulate the zip line industry died last week, about six months after a worker plunged 100 feet to his death in Paukaa near Hilo and another was critically injured when a tower toppled and the 2,300-foot zip line went slack. Star-Advertiser. An eye-catching display at the State Capitol aimed to draw attention to the problem of child abuse in Hawaii. KITV4. Charles Djou Former Congressman Charles Djou is back from the war zone in Afghanistan and is focused on his race for Congress. Hawaii Reporter. For Tulsi Gabbard, reward found in ‘serving others.’ Maui News. Wil Okabe and Paul Daughtery want to be president of the Hawaii State Teachers Association for different reasons. The former wants to continue the work he started three years ago when first elected to the position. The latter would like to see a profound shift in the union’s direction. Civil Beat. Employer-picked doctors not independent, critics claim. Injured employees receive evaluations from doctors hired by employers or insurers. Star-Advertiser. Oahu In the weeks since two Hawaii polls showed the public opinion has turned against the controversial Honolulu rail project, council members — particularly those on the ballot this year — have asked sharper questions and expressed doubts about the future for rail transit. Civil Beat. Starting Monday, HART CEO Dan Grabauskas, the highest paid city employee officially begins his new gig with a salary, plus bonuses, totaling $322,000. Hawaii News Now. Some roads around downtown Honolulu will have lane closures as archeological survey work continues on the city’s rail transit project.
Continue reading...Honolulu spills sewage despite EPA agreement, smoking ban coming to public housing, Hawaii Senate advances $11B state budget, state misses out on…
3. April 2012
Honolulu’s Ala Wai canal (c) 2012 All Hawaii News More than a year after a major settlement between the Environmental Protection Agency and the city of Honolulu to address the thousands of gallons of raw sewage that flow into Oahu’s waterways annually, the volume of spills has not abated. Civil Beat. The Senate Judiciary Committee voted Monday to advance a bill to prohibit smoking in and around Hawaii Public Housing Authority buildings. Star-Advertiser. A Senate panel approved Monday its version of the $11 billion supplemental budget bill that focuses on education and core services along with key provisions of Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s New Day initiative. Star-Advertiser. Legislature Keeps Dogs in Restaurants Bill Alive. Hawaii Public Radio. Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday nominated seven Hawaii business leaders to fill seats on the Hawaii Tourism Authority, including two with ties to land use and development. Pacific Business News. Governor Neil Abercrombie today made more nominations to several boards and commissions including the Hawai’i Tourism Authority and the Land Use Commission. Hawaii Reporter. Hawaii is among the few states to not take advantage of a federal incentive program estimated to distribute as much as $80 million to Medicaid providers for the establishment of electronic health records. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii Doctors Form Aid In Dying Advisory Council. Civil Beat. Wind energy is at the top of the list of energy sources that Hawaii should be tapping to meet its renewable energy goals, according to a recently released federal study. Civil Beat. Starting Aug. 1, nearly all ships en route to Hawaii will be required to switch to cleaner burning fuel as part of an treaty known as the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.That’s expected to raise the price of shipping a 20-foot container to Hawaii by an average of $18. KITV4. The Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association is screening candidates to replace President and CEO Mufi Hannemann should he leave the job as his campaign for Congress heats up. Star-Advertiser. Oahu The Sierra Club, Hawaii’s largest grassroots environmental organization, is re-considering its position on the city’s $5.3 billion rail transit project. Hawaii News Now. The first of four candidates to be the next chancellor of the University of Hawaii-Manoa arrives today with the firm belief that Manoa needs to retain the chancellor’s position to help drive Hawaii’s economy. Star-Advertiser. It’s an important week for the future of the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Starting Wednesday, candidates for the position of chancellor will begin visiting the campus. Hawaii News Now. Hundreds of Kaneohe based Marines and sailors are on their way to Australia. KHON2. Hawaii The out-of-state bidder who scooped up all 16 Hamakua land parcels that were put out for leases has withdrawn his option on eight of the smaller parcels, saying he wants to make them available for local farmers. West Hawaii Today. If work on the second phase of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project had begun when the Department of Transportation initially expected, and had construction taken the two-and-a-half years the DOT estimated at the time, drivers would have four lanes of highway all the way to Kona International Airport by now. West Hawaii Today. The zip line tower collapse that claimed the life of construction worker Ted Callaway on Sept. 21 was “immediate and catastrophic,” according to a report by an independent engineering firm. And, it appears it may have been preventable. Tribune-Herald. In an annual competition hosted by the Roasters’ Guild of the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA), three coffees from Ka’u were among the top 10 judged, earning them the coveted title Coffee of the Year for 2012. Associated Press. Maui The County of Maui is pleased to recognize the Water Resource & Planning Division for being one of the first government agencies to receive the Hawaii Green Business Program Award. KHON2. With hula, chanting and song, family members and friends paid tribute Sunday to late Native Hawaiian leader and kahu Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr. Maui News. A dozen dogs died after their kennel in Waikapu was intentionally set on fire Sunday night, fire officials said. Maui News. Mainland Condo Owner Objects to Vacation Rental Bills. Maui Now. Kauai The Kaua‘i County Council today begins a series of daily budgetary review meetings lasting at least until April 19 on the mayor’s proposed $161.21 million operational budget for fiscal year 2013. Garden Island. State To Pay $210,000 For Fatal Kauai Wreck. Driver was drunk, high and missed a turn, but lack of lighting and an old bridge contributed. Civil Beat. The Kauai police commission plans to file a complaint in court to ask for judgment on who has the authority to supervise and discipline the police chief. Associated Press. The controversy over whether the mayor has authority to intervene with any department heads appointed by county commissions was the focus of a public hearing by the Kaua‘i County Charter Review Commission on Monday. Garden Island.
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27. April 2012
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