Hawaiian Airlines Launches Daily Service Between Los Angeles and Kaua'i – Summer Flights to Kona Resume
Posted on April 30, 2017 by Damon
Hawaiian Airlines' popular daily non-stop summer flights between Los Angeles and Kaua'i will now be offered year-round starting on May 26, the airline announced today. Also beginning on Memorial Day weekend, Hawaiian will resume seasonal service between California and Kaua'i and the Kona Coast on the Island of Hawai'i, providing travelers direct access to both islands during the peak summer months.
Hawaiian will turn its seasonal service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Līhu'e Airport (LIH) into a permanent daily flight due to consistently strong demand from Southern California.
"For the past four years, our summer schedule has been well-received by West Coast travelers seeking convenient service to our Neighbor Islands," said Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines executive vice president and chief commercial officer. "Guests will continue to enjoy our warm and authentic Hawaiian hospitality and island-inspired meals as they set off for the beautiful island of Kaua'i or the stunning Kona Coast."
As part of its summer schedule, Hawai'i's largest and longest-serving carrier is bringing back non-stop daily flights between Oakland International Airport (OAK) and LIH starting May 27 through Sept. 4.
Non-stop flights between LAX and Kona International Airport (KOA) will commence on May 28. KOA-LAX flights will be offered on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, while LAX-KOA flights will be available Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, also through Sept. 4.
Guests aboard Hawaiian's flights will enjoy the carrier's signature Mea Ho'okipa (I am host) onboard hospitality, island-style complimentary meals and made-in-Hawai'i snacks. Flights between Los Angeles and Kona will be served by Hawaiian's wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft featuring first class, Extra Comfort and economy seats. Guests traveling between Los Angeles or Oakland and Līhu'e will be aboard the airline's wide-body Boeing 767 aircraft offering first class and economy seating.
Tickets for the seasonal non-stop flights are available for purchase online at HawaiianAirlines.com or by calling Hawaiian Airlines' reservations department toll-free at (800) 367-5320.
Filed under: Hawaiian, Tourism | Tagged: Hawaiian Airlines | Leave a comment »
Call for 2018 Living Treasures of Hawaii Nominees
The Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii is currently accepting nominations for the 2018 Living Treasures of Hawaii.
The "Living Treasures of Hawaii" was inspired by the Living National Treasures (Ningen Kokuho) of Japan. Since 1976, the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii has recognized individuals who have demonstrated excellence and high standards of achievement in their particular fields and who are continuing to preserve and perpetuate the island's distinctive cultural and artistic heritage.
2017 Honorees Bishop Ryokan Ara, Beatrice Kanahele Dawson, Nobuko Kida, Roy Sakuma and George Yokoyama
Candidates are selected based on their demonstration of continuous growth and learning in one's area of strength, their consistent sharing of knowledge and understanding of their particular field, and their steady and significant contributions towards enriching our society.
An organization or person may nominate a candidate for this honor by submitting a nomination form with information on the nominee, and a maximum of three recommendation letters. The nomination form is available at the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Headquarters Office located at 1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 and www.hongwanjihawaii.com. Completed nominations may be submitted in the following manner:
By fax – (808) 522-9209
By email – admin@honpahi.org
Dropped off during office hours
The completed nomination must be received by the Living Treasures Committee no later than August 1st.
The 43rd Living Treasures of Hawaii Recognition Program and Luncheon will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2018, 12:00 p.m. in the Coral Ballroom at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort.
For more information on Living Treasures of Hawaii, please call (808) 522-9200 or visit http://hongwanjihawaii.com/ living-treasures.
Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Hawaii, State Affairs | Tagged: Beatrice Kanahele Dawson, Bishop Ryokan Ara, George Yokoyama, Living Treasures of Hawaii, Nobuko Kida, Roy Sakuma | Leave a comment »
Big Island Chocolate Festival Names Winners
Culinary entries from Maui and the Big Isle were tapped winners at last night's Big Island Chocolate Festival gala. A sold-out crowd of 600 attendees sprawled inside and out of the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel for the sixth annual fundraiser to benefit four island non-profits.
The event theme "Worth Its Weight in Gold-The History of Chocolate" was depicted at culinary stations and the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai was tapped Best Decorated Booth.
From Left: Big Island Chocolate Festival founder Farsheed Bonakdar presented the professional culinary winners with their plaques: Michelle Yamaguchi of Wailua Estate for Best Bean-to-Bar, Chef Dayne Tanabe of Hilton Waikoloa Village for Best Savory, Chef Donald Wressell of Guittard Chocolate Company for Best Plated Dessert and People's Choice Best Sweet, Chef Eddie Enojardo for Best Bonbon and Chef Alan Heap, Mara Masuda and Albert Asuncion of Huggo's for People Choice Best Savory. Photos by Kirk Shorte
Creations by chefs, chocolatiers, college and high school culinary students were critiqued on taste, texture, appearance and creativity by a team of celebrity judges at competitions during the two-day festival.
Gala winners were Chef Dayne Tanabe of Hilton Waikoloa Village for Best Savory, Chef Donald Wressell of Guittard Chocolate Company for Best Plated Dessert, Chef Eddie Enojardo of Hilton Waikoloa Village for Best Bonbon and Michelle Yamaguchi of Wailua Estate for Best Bean-to-Bar Chocolate.
People's Choice Awards went to Chef Alan Heap of Huggo's for Best Savory and Guittard for Best Sweet. In the farm awards division, Gini Choobua of Likao Kula Farm earned Best Cacao while J. Bennett of Nine Fine Mynahs took Best Criollo.
Gini Choobua of Likao Kula Farm in Kona earned Best Cacao.
Six high school culinary teams participated in the gala with Kea'au High School winning first, followed by Waiakea in second and Konawaena in third.
Earning first place in the high school culinary division were students from Kea'au High School.
Students at Waiakea High School placed second in the high school culinary division.
Taking third place in the high school culinary division was the Konawaena team.
Three students earning culinary scholarships were Hannah Norman and Mina Acosta-Cabamungan of Waiakea and Rhoma Dai of Kea'au.
From Left: High School scholarship winners included Hannah Norman and Mina Acosta-Cabamungan of Waiakea and Rhoma Dait of Kea'au.
For Friday's college competition, UH-Maui College took first and second while UH-Palamanui came in third. Due to a mix up in the judging process, the incorrect winners were named during the gala and the judges later made the correction.
The team of judges for the various competitions were Chef Donald Wressell of Guittard Chocolate Company, Chef Alicia Boada of Cacao Barry, Paul Picton of Maverick Chocolate, Chef Elizabeth McDonald of B3 a Beach Bunny Bakery, Chef Ricky DeBoer of The Fairmont, Kea Lani; Chef Yoshikazu Kizu of Ritz Carlton Kapalua, Chef Teresa Shurilla of UH-Maui College, Chefs Connor Butler and Frank Kramm of the Kona Butcher Shop, Chef Krista Garcia of UH-Maui College, Chef Stephane Treand, Nat Bletter, Neal Campbell, Weston Yap, Paul Picton, Farsheed Bonakdar and Chef Bruce Trouyet of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
The real winners of the annual festival are the four beneficiaries: the ACF Kona Kohala Chefs Assn., Kona Dance & Performing Arts, Kona Pacific Public Charter School and Waimea Country School's Na Keiki Aloha 'Aina.
Presented by the Kona Cacao Association, the Big Island Chocolate Festival not only heralds Hawai'i's growing cacao industry, but also the professional and student culinarians who masterfully create foods featuring chocolate.
In addition to last night's gala, the festival offered a full lineup of chocolate decadence from planting to plating: a Kona cacao farm tour, plus growing and processing seminars and how-to culinary demonstrations by chocolate industry experts.
Visit www.bigislandchocolatefestival.com for updates on next year's event.
The Big Island Chocolate Festival is presented by the Kona Cacao Association, Inc. The mission and goal of KCA is to promote the cacao industry on the Big Island of Hawai'i by presenting BICF as an educational and outreach opportunity for local cacao farmers, the hospitality industry and cacao enthusiasts. Mahalo to 2017 event sponsors Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, Guittard Chocolate Company, Prova, Valrohna USA, Cacao Barry, Barry Callebaut, ChoiceMART, Kona Auto Center, Dolphin Journeys, Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory, Hawaii Community Federal Credit Union, Amoretti, Cocoa Outlet, Kona Brewing Company, Young's Market, Waialua Estate Coffee & Chocolate, XPress Reprographics, The Spoon Shop, Island Asphalt Maintenance, DHX, Island Air, Republica Del Cacao, The Fairmont Orchid, Hawai'i, Pivotal Shift Consulting Group, Hawaii Coffee Connection and TheWave@92FM. www.bigislandchocolatefestival.com. #BIChocoFest, #ChocolateGold
Filed under: Agriculture, aloha, Announcements, Big Island, Education, Entertainment, Food & Drink, Hawaii, Kids | Tagged: 2017 Big Island Chocolate Festival Winners | Leave a comment »
Big Island Police Kill Man Wielding Crossbow
Hawaiʻi Island police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Saturday (April 29), in Papaʻaloa.
At about 3:35 p.m., police were investigating a disturbance at a residence when they encountered a man wielding a loaded crossbow. One officer fired several shots, resulting in the death of the man.
The man's name is being withheld pending positive identification.
As is standard practice in any officer-involved shooting, the Police Department's Area I Criminal Investigations Section will conduct a criminal investigation into the shooting, and the Office of Professional Standards will conduct an administrative investigation.
Police ask that anyone with any information about this incident cal l the Police Department's non-emergency line at 935-3311 or contact Lieutenant Miles Chong at 961-2252, or via email at miles.chong@hawaiicounty.gov. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call the island-wide Crime Stoppers number at 961-8300 and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000. Crime Stoppers is a volunteer program run by ordinary citizens who want to keep their community safe. Crime Stoppers doesn't record calls or subscribe to caller ID. All Crime Stoppers information is kept confidential.
Filed under: Big Island, Hawaii, Legal, Security | Tagged: Crossbow, Hawaii Island Police | Leave a comment »
Kamokuna Ocean Entry Slowly Building New Lava Delta
The episode 61g Kamokuna ocean entry has been slowly building a new lava delta for a little over a month now.
Two large cracks parallel to the coast are visible on the delta (center), with the distal portion slumping slightly seaward—suggesting further instability. Thursday, the ocean entry activity, most of which was located along the western side of the delta and obscured by the thick plume, was producing occasional weak littoral explosions.
Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, Security, Something New? | Tagged: Kamokuna Ocean Entry, Lava Delta | Leave a comment »
Three Hawaii Public School Students Selected for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program
Seniors from Mililani High School, Waipahu High School and Kalani High School have been selected as semifinalists for the 2017 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. These students were selected out of 5,100 candidates and are in the running, along with 723 semifinalists nationwide, to be in the 53rd class of U.S. Presidential Scholars.
L to R: Emily Yang, Jommel Macaraeg, Tyler Labonte
The 2017 Hawaii public school semifinalists include:
Tyler Labonte, Mililani High School
Jommel Macaraeg, Waipahu High School
Emily Yang, Kalani High School.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 to honor distinguished graduating seniors. The program recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, talent in the visual, creative and performing arts and accomplishment in career and technical education fields, as well as evidence of community service, civic leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.
"Congratulations to these outstanding students, their families and schools for receiving this prestigious recognition acknowledging their hard work and commitment to academic and civic excellence," said Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. "We wish them the best of luck as the finalists are selected, as well as continued success as they pursue their college and career goals."
As a third degree black in Karate, Tyler Labonte has the discipline and drive it takes to balance a full schedule, which includes advanced placement classes, extracurricular activities and a part-time job. He is currently a member of the Mililani High Student Senate, a programmer for the school's VEX Robotics team, state president for SkillsUSA Hawaii and executive committee member of Mensa Hawaii.
Jommel Macaraeg has taken on numerous leadership roles at Waipahu High including class president during his junior and senior years, president of Waipahu High's Academy of Health and Sciences House Council, and secretary for the school's National Honor Society. He has also balanced a rigorous class schedule maintaining a 4.075 grade point average, while also giving back to the community by volunteering at events like the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk, the Great Aloha Run and the Taste of Waipahu.
Emily Yang will be graduating as the top valedictorian of Kalani High and plans on attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she will major in Biology. Her interest and talent in science has helped her win numerous awards at district and state Science and Engineering Fairs. This year, she competed in a science fair in Japan and was a return participant at the 2017 Intel international Science and Engineering Fair.
Annually, up to 161 students are chosen for one of the nation's highest honors for high school students. For more information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, click here.
Filed under: Announcements, Education, Hawaii, Kids, National Affairs | Tagged: Emily Yang, Jommel Macaraeg, Tyler Labonte, U.S. Presidential Scholars Program | Leave a comment »
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Statement on NSA Ending Warrantless Collection of Americans' Emails
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02), a member of the Fourth Amendment Caucus, issued the following statement in response to the National Security Agency's (NSA) announcement to end its collection of Americans' Internet communications that may include mentions of a foreign intelligence target. The announcement marks a break in years of NSA policy to collect email, texts, and other Internet communication that merely mention identifying terms for foreign targets, but are not to or from those targets, also known as "about" surveillance.
"For years, Americans have been kept in the dark about our government's unconstitutional collection of their personal communications and data in the name of national security. This change in NSA policy is an important step in the right direction. In order to ensure we do not backtrack on this progress, I will be introducing legislation to permanently codify this policy change to permanently ban this privacy-invading collection."
Background: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has long advocated for reforms that address our government's responsibility to protect civil liberties and ensure a strong national defense. She has actively sought reforms to Section 702, the Patriot Act, introduced legislation to strengthen and expand the functions of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB), and is a founding member of the bipartisan Fourth Amendment Caucus focused on protecting the privacy and security of Americans in the digital
Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Legal, National Affairs, Security, Technology | Tagged: FISA 702, Internet Security | Leave a comment »
Hawaii Department of Health Investigating Increase in Mumps Cases
The Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) has been investigating an increasing number of cases of mumps infection statewide. Since March 2017, DOH has become aware of two clusters of cases, together involving at least nine (9) individuals on Oahu, bringing the total number of confirmed cases statewide this year to fourteen (14). To date, none of the infected individuals have required hospitalization. "Healthcare providers have been notified, and because this disease is easily spread, we expect additional cases to be reported in the coming weeks," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park. "There is no specific treatment for mumps infection and while most people will recover completely, mumps can occasionally cause complications, especially in adults. Cases have been reported in vaccinated individuals, but vaccination is still the best protection against this disease. We encourage everyone to review their immunization record and talk to their healthcare provider about mumps vaccination."
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, and prevents most, but not all, cases of mumps. Two doses of the vaccine are 88 percent effective at protecting against mumps and one dose is 78 percent effective. For this reason, being fully accinated is important in helping to protect the public's health across the state.
Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus. A classic symptom of mumps is arotitis (swelling of the salivary glands in front of the ears) resulting in a tender, swollen jaw. Other symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Some people with mumps have very mild or no symptoms. Persons should seek medical attention immediately if they develop symptoms.
People with mumps are most infectious in the several days before and after the onset of parotitis. The disease is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Transmission can also occur when sharing items, such as cups or eating utensils, or by touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Persons with mumps should stay home from school or work for nine (9) days after the onset of parotitis to keep from spreading the disease to others.
MMR vaccine is available at local pharmacies. To locate a vaccinating pharmacy in your community, visit http://health.hawaii.gov/docd/vaccines-immunizations/vaccine-locators/ or call the Aloha United Way information and referral line at 2-1-1.
Additional information about mumps can be found on the DOH website at http://health.hawaii.gov/docd/disease_listing/mumps/.
Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Health, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: Mumps in Hawaii | Leave a comment »
Hawaii Department of Health Publishes First LGBT Health Data Report
Today the Department of Health released the first-ever Hawaii Sexual and Gender Minority Health Report at the Building Competency in Serving Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Youth Conference. The report reveals that, compared to heterosexual youth and adults, lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth experience many early risk factors that contribute to poorer health outcomes in adulthood.
Click to view report
"We are pleased to share our current research on the health of Hawaii's sexual and gender minority people," said Dr. Virginia Pressler, Director of Health. "The new findings will help us tailor programs to better address the health challenges of LGBT people in our State." Over ten percent of public high school youth identify as LGB or questioning, and three percent of adults aged 18 years and older identify as LGB. An additional 5,600 adults in Hawaii identify as transgender or gender non-conforming.
Sexual and gender minority people experience discrimination and stigma, and are often victims of bullying, family rejection, and lack of acceptance. Consequently, LGB and questioning youth experience greater mental health challenges than heterosexual youth. Half of LGB youth report feeling sad or hopeless, and 60 percent report purposely hurting themselves through behaviors such as cutting or burning themselves. Each year, nearly one in three LGB youth attempt suicide.
LGB youth are also more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors that increase their risk for chronic disease and poor health outcomes later in life. One-quarter of LGB youth report that they currently smoke cigarettes, and nearly half drink alcohol. One in ten LBG youth also say they have injected illicit drugs at least once in their lifetime.
Consistent with the findings on youth, the report shows that LGB adults live with poorer health outcomes than heterosexual adults. Forty percent of LGB adults report having multiple chronic conditions, and they are twice as likely as heterosexual adults to suffer depression.
Women identifying as lesbian or bisexual also experience poorer health outcomes compared to heterosexual women. One-quarter of lesbian or bisexual women have asthma, and they are three times more likely to have a stroke. Men identifying as gay or bisexual are seven times more likely to experience abuse by a partner, and three times more likely to be a victim of rape or attempted rape.
"The report demonstrates that there is much work to be done to understand and address the unique challenges of sexual and gender minority people," said Lola Irvin, Administrator of the Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Division. "By improving the health of at-risk and underserved populations, we will make Hawaii a healthier, happier place for all our citizens."
To download a copy of the report, please visit https://health.hawaii.gov/surveillance/files/2017/04/HawaiiSexualandGenderMinorityHealthReport.pdf.
Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Community, Hawaii, Health, State Affairs | Tagged: Hawaii, LGBT Health Data Report | Leave a comment »
Animal Control Activities and Temporary Closure of Mauna Kea Forest Reserve
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) will conduct animal control activities specifically for trapping mouflon/feral sheep hybrids; staff hunting, and/or aerial shooting from helicopters for feral goats, feral sheep, mouflon and mouflon/feral sheep hybrids within palila critical habitat in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve (Unit A), Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve (Unit K), Palila Mitigation Lands, and the Ka'ohe Game Management Area (Unit G) on the island of Hawai'i.
Palila Bird
Aerial shooting is required for compliance with the federal court order mandating the removal of sheep and goats from critical habitat for palila, a bird endemic to Hawai'i.
Control schedules are May 10 and 11, 2017. Public access to Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve, Palila Mitigation Lands, the Ka'ohe Game Management Area and Mauna Kea Hunter Access Road will be restricted and allowed BY PERMIT ONLY for animal salvage purposes on the following dates:
7 a.m. May 10, 2017
These actions are pursuant to Hawai'i Administrative Rules Ch. 13-130-19 and § 13-104-23(a) (3). The Mauna Kea Observatory Road will remain open. The temporary closure is needed to minimize the dangers of incompatible uses in the forest area and safely conduct animal control activities. To implement the closure, both the Hale Pohaku and Kilohana gated entrances to Unit A and G and the gate behind Mauna Kea State Recreation Area will be locked/reopened as follows:
Locked 7 p.m. May 9, 2017, and reopened 7 p.m. May 11, 2017.
Copies of the map illustrating the area subject to aerial shooting on these dates are available for inspection at the Division of Forestry and Wildlife Office.
Due to high public participation, telephone call-ins to the DOFAW Kamuela Office at (808) 887-6063 for receiving salvage permits will be conducted from 9 a.m. May 3, 2017, to 10 a.m. the day before each shoot day. One permit will be issued per call per vehicle for one day only. Applicants can have their names added to a stand-by list for additional days, should all slots not be filled by other applicants. No standbys waiting at the gates will be allowed access. The driver, occupants, vehicle license plate, and make/model of vehicle are needed when calling in. A maximum of 15 permitted vehicles will be allowed at the Pu'u Ko'ohi location and 15 permitted vehicles at the Pu'u Mali location.
Carcasses taken during the shoot will be available to the permitted public for salvage at the following locations (4-wheel drive vehicles are required, and access permits will be issued). There is no guarantee that animals will be able to be salvaged.
Salvage locations are subject to change:
On May 10, 2017, at Pu'u Ko'ohi. Permittees must meet at Mauna Kea Recreation Area at 7 a.m. sharp.
On May 11, 2017, at Pu'u Mali. Permittees must meet across from the Waimea Veterinary office on Mana Road at 6 a.m. sharp.
Contact the Division of Forestry and Wildlife in Hilo at (808) 974-4221 or in Kamuela at (808) 887-6063 for additional details regarding meat salvage or access permits.
Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Environment, Hawaii, State Affairs | Tagged: Mauna Kea Forest Reserve, Palila Bird | Leave a comment »
Conference Committee Agree on Funding Honolulu's Rail Project – Tourists Will Pay More
The House and Senate conference committee came to an agreement this afternoon on the future of Honolulu's rail project. Earlier today, the House proposed removing the 2-year extension using GET surcharge from SB 1183 SD2 HD2 and replacing it by increasing the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) by 2.75%.
"The City and HART have been telling us over and over again that the cost of rail should be put on tourists and the visitor industry," said Representative Sylvia Luke (Makiki, Punchbowl, Nuuanu, Dowsett Highlands, Pacific Heights, Pauoa). "We have taken them to heart and we have done that today without imposing a further tax burden on the citizens of the state."
The amended bill calls for the City & County of Honolulu to contribute $13 million of their share of the hotel room tax to fund the rail project.
The bill allows for a massive infusion of money now for the rail project without putting the cost of it on the backs of our most vulnerable citizens, the poor, elderly and low-income working families. The money generated by the increase in the hotel tax in today's dollars is equivalent to receiving $2.4 billion in future GET revenues. This would provide more funding for rail than any package currently being proposed.
"The end goal has always been to get rail to Ala Moana so that the City fulfills its agreement with the Federal Transit Authority," said Representative Henry Aquino (Waipahu). "This bill gives the city more tools to use in managing and funding its project."
The bill also calls for a moratorium on redeveloping the Neil S. Blaisdell Center, which is estimated to cost nearly $500 million, so the City does not fiscally over extend itself and can focus on its number one priority – rail.
The provisions of the amended bill include:
Removal of House's proposed 2 year GET extension for 2027 – 2029;
Increase of the Transient Accommodations Tax (TAT) by 2.75% from its current 9.25% to 12% for 10 years from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2027;
Revenue generated from the TAT increases will be distributed as follows:
$50 million will be set aside annually for education in a newly created education special fund;
The City and County of Honolulu will receive $130 million annually over 10 years concurrently with the GET surcharge revenue that they are already receiving now;
$13 million of Oahu's share of the TAT go to funding the rail project;
Maintaining the House position to lower the state's share of the administrative service fee to 1%;
Giving all counties the option to extend the GET surcharge;
Requiring Honolulu to repeal any ordinance prohibiting use of county funds for rail;
Prohibiting the use of the GET surcharge revenue to fund HART administrative, operating, and personnel expenses.
Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Oahu, Tourism, Transportation | Tagged: HART, Honolulu Rail Project, Hotel Taxes | Leave a comment »
Hawaii Senate Proposed Conference Draft Amendment Protects Neighbor Islands TAT Funds
Calling the House proposed conference draft (CD2) on SB1183 SD2 HD2 an "innovative and creative approach" to funding Honolulu's rail project and addresses the concerns that have been raised throughout the process, the Senate today offered a counter proposal to the House CD2 which would reduce the distribution of the transient accommodation tax (TAT) funds to only the City and County of Honolulu, thereby allowing the neighbor island counties to keep their share of the TAT. The House CD2 removes the 2-year GET extension and proposes to raise the TAT by 2.75% which is expected to raise $1.3 billion by 2027.
In introducing the amendment, Senate Ways and Means chair Sen. Jill Tokuda said that removing the TAT split was "only fair given this is a City and County of Honolulu project and would not disproportionately impact the neighbor island counties."
"Overall, this is a grand compromise. We've given the city more money up front and provides a pathway to do bonding," said Senate Majority Leader, Sen. J. Kalani English. "Essentially, we've given the city a lot of tools to work with to finish the rail project without impacting the low-income and elderly citizens of our community through GET extensions or property tax increases."
Filed under: Announcements, Economy, Hawaii, State Affairs, Tourism | Tagged: Hawaii TAT Taxes, SB1183, transient accommodation tax | Leave a comment »
100 Days of Broken Promises: Hawai'i Democrats to Highlight Trump's Disastrous Administration
Tomorrow (Saturday), April 29th will mark 100 days since Inauguration Day. So far, Trump's first 100 days have been filled with broken promises and policies that hurt Americans in every corner of our nation.
Trump promised he would drain the swamp, but instead he's filled his administration with billionaires, Wall Street bankers, lobbyists and the same Washington insiders he railed against during the campaign.
Trump promised better health care that would cost less and provide more benefits, but instead he backed a bill that would have thrown 24 million off of their health care and driven up premiums for older Americans, all while giving tax breaks to the wealthy.
Trump promised he would deliver for the "forgotten man," but his budget would cut funding for vital services like job training, Meals on Wheels, and disease research to finance yet another tax break for the rich.
Trump promised Mexico would pay for the wall, but instead he's trying to get U.S. taxpayers to pay for it in the latest government funding bill.
Trump upset bipartisan negotiations to fund the government with a late-in-the-game attempt to get funding for his border wall and even threatened to hold health care for millions hostage to do so.
Trump promised he would get tough on outsourcing and trade, but he has failed to stand up to China and continues to hire foreign workers at his resorts like Mar-A-Lago.
Trump signed an executive order blocking citizens of six predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States, the most significant hardening of immigration policy in generations. In bringing a national halt to the executive order, Judge Derrick Watson (ruling on a challenge to the ban by Hawai'i Attorney General Douglas Chin) wrote "The illogic of the government's contention is palpable… The notion that one can demonstrate animus toward any group of people only by targeting all of them at once is fundamentally flawed."
Trump's Attorney General, Jefferson Beauregard Sessions III, insulted Hawai'i residents by saying (in reference to Judge Watson's ruling) "I really am amazed that a judge sitting on an island in the Pacific can issue an order that stops the president of the United States from what appears to be clearly his statutory and constitutional power." Senator Mazie Hirono responded: "Hawaii was built on the strength of diversity & immigrant experiences – including my own. Jeff Sessions' comments are ignorant & dangerous" and Senator Brian Schatz tweeted: "Mr. Attorney General: You voted for that judge. And that island is called Oahu. It's my home. Have some respect."
Hawai'i Democrats will be gathering across the state to continue to #resist by marching for climate change, rallying for our 'āina, and talking about how Trump's broken promises, disrespect, and disastrous policies are impacting their lives.
Join us Saturday at an event below as we mark 100 days of the Trump administration's broken promises:
People's Climate March – Honolulu: https://www.facebook.com/events/1352399104850754/
Wade-In Waimea Climate Rally – Hawai'i Island: https://www.facebook.com/events/753019584873379/
Hawai'i Climate March and Festival – Hilo: https://www.facebook.com/events/174947573008174/
People's Climate Movement – Kailua-Kona March & Rally: https://www.facebook.com/events/1792977757686698/
People's Climate Movement – Kaua'i: https://actionnetwork.org/events/the-peoples-climate-movement-kauai
Filed under: Announcements, Guest Commentator, Hawaii, National Affairs, Politics | Tagged: First 100 Days, Hawaii Democrats, Trump | Leave a comment »
Waipio Solar Project Completed
The Department of the Navy, Pacific Energy Solutions, LLC, Hawaiian Electric Company, and the Hawaii State Energy Office celebrated the completion of a 14.3 megawatt direct current solar facility at the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) Waipio Peninsula in Hawaii.
The completion of the project was commemorated in a ribbon cutting ceremony today on JBPHH. Notable ceremony presenters and attendees included Rear Adm. John Fuller, commander of Navy Region Hawaii; Rear Adm. John Korka, commander of Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific and U.S. Pacific Fleet civil engineer; John Kliem, executive director, DON's Resilient Energy Program Office; Capt. Stanley Keeve Jr., commanding officer, JBPHH; Ron Cox, senior vice president of Operations at Hawaiian Electric; and Dr. Terrence Surles, interim administrator of the Hawaii State Energy Office.
"Our Navy is tough during wartime and while preserving peace. That same level of determination drives day-to-day problem-solving as well as our approach to energy security. We are bold in our thinking – embracing innovation and new technologies, just as we have done throughout our history. Our senior leaders empower us and expect us to be adaptive, resilient and forward-thinking. That applies to both our nation's defense and to our commitment to energy security," said Fuller.
Pacific Energy Solutions built, and will own, operate and maintain the solar facility on JBPHH, and the installation will be the sole consumer of the power produced by the photovoltaic facility under a contract referred to as a Power Purchase Agreement.
"We are pleased to be part of the Waipio solar project and to help the Navy achieve its clean energy goals," said Matt Handel, vice president of Development for NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, whose subsidiary purchased the membership interest in Pacific Energy Solutions.
The project will contribute to the DON's diverse energy portfolio, ensuring more secure and resilient operations at JBPHH. It also shows the continued partnership with the state of Hawaii, following last year's Memorandum of Understanding between the DON and the state, which coordinated goals and strengthened the partnership between both organizations in the pursuit of additional renewable energy in the state of Hawaii.
"The State of Hawaii commends the Navy for its leadership in making the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Waipio Peninsula solar facility a reality. This project is a testament to our shared vision with the Navy and other branches of the military on energy security and self-sufficiency. It will take a genuine commitment on the part of all stakeholders to achieve our clean energy goals, and high-impact projects like this are an important part of that effort," said Luis P. Salaveria, director of the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.
The DON continues to improve readiness, combat effectiveness and flexibility through initiatives that focus on energy reliability, resiliency and efficiency.
Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Military, Oahu, Something New?, Sustainable Living, Technology | Tagged: Department of the Navy, Hawaiian Electric Company, Pacific Energy Solutions, Waipio Solar Farm | Leave a comment »
East Hawaiʻi "Officer of the Month" for April – Thomas Chun-Ming
The Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi recognized South Hilo Patrol Officer Thomas Chun-Ming on Thursday (April 27) as the East Hawaiʻi "Officer of the Month" for April.
On March 27, 2017, Officer Chun-Ming was patrolling the Honomū area following a recent increase in property crimes when he received information about a suspicious vehicle in the garage of a vacant home. Upon further investigation, Officer Chun-Ming arrested a male and female for Criminal Trespass in the first degree. The male suspect received additional charges of Promoting a Dangerous Drug and Drug Paraphernalia.
Later that same evening, while supplementing another shift, Officer Chun-Ming observed a pickup truck without a safety inspection sticker on the rear bumper. As he followed the t ruck onto a side-street in Pepeʻekeo he observed the vehicle to stop suddenly and two males immediately exit from the driver and passenger sides. As he ordered them back into the vehicle and then made further contact with the driver he detected the odor of burnt marijuana and observed drug paraphernalia inside the truck. At this time Officer Chun-Ming arrested the driver for Promoting a Detrimental Drug in the third degree and Driving without a License. The passenger was arrested for a no bail warrant and Promoting a Detrimental Drug in the third degree and the truck was recovered as evidence. The Hawaiʻi Police Department's VICE section was assigned to continue the investigation and recovered 1.5 grams of methamphetamine and "meth pipe" after serving a narcotics search warrant on the truck. The two males were given additional charges, three counts of Promoting a Dangerous Drug in the third degree and three counts of Drug Paraphernalia.
On March 28, 2017, Officer Chun-Ming spotted a vehicle which had recently been reported stolen to be traveling in the opposite direction of him on Highway 19. After losing sight of the vehicle he continued to make diligent checks of the area and the vehicle was located along a muddy, unpaved road. As Officer Chun-Ming approached, two males immediately fled from the vehicle on foot. After a short foot pursuit, Officer Chun-Ming was able to apprehend one of the males until back-up officers arrived. With the assistance of the Hawaiʻi Police Departments tracking dog, the second suspect was located hiding in the brush and was subsequently also arrested. Both men were arrested for Theft in the second degree and one of them was also arrested for Promotion of a Detrimental Drug.
Chun-Ming was nominated for the award by Sergeant BJ Duarte who stated that he "demonstrates on a daily basis, his attention to detail, superb investigative skills, his dedication to duty and his proactive approach to police wor k."
As "Officer of the Month," Chun-Ming is eligible for "Officer of the Year."
The East Hawaiʻi "Officer of the Month" award is a project of the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaiʻi.
Filed under: aloha, Big Island, Hawaii, Legal, Security | Tagged: Thomas Chun-Ming | Leave a comment »
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Opposes Attack on Net Neutrality
In a speech on the House floor today, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) spoke out strongly against the FCC's recent announcement of plans to unravel net neutrality:
"Yesterday, the new Trump-appointed FCC Chair announced his mission to undermine the net neutrality rules we fought so hard to put in place. In 2015, over 4 million people submitted comments, calling on the FCC to keep the internet open and fair.
"However, the FCC's new Chairman, who used to work as counsel for Verizon, wants to turn the internet into a system of pay-to-play fast lanes for big money and those who can afford it, leaving everyone else behind in the slow lane.
"This hands the levers of access over to big ISPs at the expense of students, small businesses, entrepreneurs, independent content creators, and millions more.
"In today's digital age, maintaining open and equal internet access is essential to breaking down barriers in education, media, expanding access to jobs and employment, driving innovation in healthcare, and so much more.
"We must stand strong in opposition to the FCC's attack on fairness, equality, and net neutrality."
Background: Rep. Tulsi Gabbard has strongly supported net neutrality, and has cosponsored legislation to prohibit multi-tiered pricing agreements between ISPs and content providers.
Filed under: Announcements, Legal, National Affairs, Security, Something New?, Technology, Tulsi Gabbard, Unexplained Phenomenon | Tagged: Net Neutrality, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard | Leave a comment »
PACOM Commander Confirms North Korea's Threat to Hawaii
In a House Armed Services Committee hearing today, Admiral Harry Harris, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM), confirmed the threat of North Korea to Hawaiʻi and detailed potential vulnerabilities that exist within current U.S. missile defense capabilities that could put Hawaiʻi at risk.
Asked by Rep. Tulsi Gabbard about the threat of North Korea to Hawaiʻi specifically, Admiral Harris stated, "Kim Jong-un is clearly in a position to threaten Hawai'i today…Our ballistic missile architecture is sufficient to protect Hawaiʻi today, but it can be overwhelmed. If Kim Jong-un or someone else launched ballistic missiles—ICBMs—against the United States, we would have to make the decision on which ones to take out or not."
Following the hearing Rep. Tulsi Gabbard said:
"Hawaiʻi is home to the largest concentration of U.S. military strategic assets for well over 3,000 miles, making it a prime target for North Korea's aggression. As I travelled across Hawai'i during my recent state-wide town hall tour, I heard from my constituents on every island their concern about the threat posed by North Korea's increased nuclear and ballistic missile activity and capabilities that place Hawaiʻi squarely within North Korea's crosshairs. It is the people of Hawaiʻi and our way of life that are at risk if North Korea's missiles turn towards our shores. Admiral Harris' testimony today affirmed the seriousness of this threat, and highlighted the need to strengthen our current missile defense infrastructure to ensure the defense of Hawai'i. I'm continuing this urgent push to strengthen the protection of Hawaiʻi against the threat that exists today, and the complex threat we know will emerge in the future. I urge my colleagues to take this threat seriously and provide the resources and tools necessary to defend Hawaiʻi against this threat."
Background: Missile defense has been one of Rep. Tulsi Gabbard's top priorities throughout her time in Congress. Last year, she passed two amendments in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)—one to provide funding to begin the process of bringing an MRDR to Hawaiʻi, and the other to require the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to brief Congress on their short-term plan to enhance missile defense capabilities in Hawaiʻi and the Pacific—and also questioned then SECDEF Carter and Chairman for the Joint Chiefs of Staff about the need to increase Hawaiʻi's missile defense. She has had ongoing conversations and meetings with the Missile Defense Agency Director, Vice Admiral James Syring, to discuss possible options for the defense of Hawaiʻi, to deal with short term and long term needs. This includes quickly deployable options that are available to further strengthen the existing defensive assets within the state.
Filed under: Announcements, Hawaii, Military, Security, State Affairs, Technology | Tagged: Admiral Harry Harris, North Korea Threat to Hawaii, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard | Leave a comment »
Hokulea and Hikianalia Return to Taputapuatea for Ancient Voyaging Ritual and Ceremony
Traditional Polynesian voyaging canoes Hokulea and Hikianalia were welcomed by local dignitaries, spiritual elders and community members at Taputapuatea. The marae, or the focal meeting ground, is located on the southeastern coast of Raiatea in French Polynesia. The purpose of the stop was to honor the ancient tradition of Hawaii's Polynesian ancestors who would go to Taputapuatea, the spiritual center for voyagers of the Pacific, to ceremonially launch and close their voyages of discovery. After sailing about 100 miles from Papeete, Tahiti, the canoes arrived at Taputapuatea yesterday morning following the historic protocol of entering via the sacred pass of Teava Moa.
The ceremony began with pwo navigator Nainoa Thompson and captain Billy Richards returning two sacred stones to the marae that were given to the crew when the canoes last visited Taputapuatea in 2014 to launch the Malama Honua Worldwide Voyage. The return of the two stones signified that the Hokulea and Hikianalia crews fulfilled their responsibility to sail around the world and deepened the connection between Hawaii and its navigational roots in Taputapuatea.
"These stones carried the spirits of all of our ancestors and the direct descendants of all of our families as we sailed around the world," said Thompson. "Today we brought the stones home to Taputapuatea and were granted permission from by our ancestral family to return home. It's the last permission based on the fulfillment of many promises we made," he added.
In addition to the spiritual elders of Taputapuatea, the crew was greeted by French Polynesia president Edouard Fritch, the Taputapuatea mayor Thomas Moutame, and the country's minister of culture Heremoana Maamaatuaiahutapu. The day-long ceremony featured the ancient rituals conducted to ceremonially complete a voyage, traditional chants and dance by the Taputapuatea community and students from Kamehameha Schools and Milolii Charter School.
In honor of this ceremonial milestone, crewmembers from Hokulea's first voyage to French Polynesia in 1976 joined this leg from Tahiti to Raiatea, including Gordon Piianaia, Billy Richards, Snake Ah Hee, Kainoa Lee and John Kruse. Zane Aikau, nephew of 1978 crewmember Eddie Aikau, also participated on the leg on behalf of the Aikau family and 1976 crewmember Buffalo Keaulana who was unable to join the sail. Special guests who also participated on the overnight sail included Hawaiian Airlines CEO Mark Dunkerley, University of Hawaii president David Lassner, and Hawaii State Department of Education superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi.
Once considered the religious and cultural center of Polynesia, Taputapuatea is the location of an ancient marae that was once considered the central temple and religious center of Eastern Polynesia. Established around 1000 AD, the marae was a place of learning where priests and navigators from all over the Pacific would gather to offer sacrifices to the gods and share their knowledge of the genealogical origins of the universe, and of deep ocean navigation.
Most significantly, a truce known as the Faatau Aroha was established with the surrounding islands to form an alliance that lasted for many years and perpetuated the growth of voyaging and exploration leading to the discovery and colonization of all the islands of Eastern Polynesia, including Hawaii, Rapa Nui and Aotearoa (New Zealand). New marae were established on each of these islands with a rock being taken from Taputapuatea so that Raiatea served as a spiritual link. However, the Faatau Aroha was broken due to a conflict between two leaders of the alliance that resulted to open warfare and an end to large-scale interisland voyaging.
The archaeological remains of Marae Taputapuatea were restored in 1994 and efforts to preserve the site continues. Association Na Papa E Vau Raiatea is working towards having Marae Taputapuatea designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and continuing work to revive connections between communities of the Polynesian triangle and throughout the Pacific region.
Hokulea and Hikianalia are scheduled to depart Taputapuatea today and will return to Papeete, Tahiti where the crews will prepare the canoes for the voyage back to Hawaii. The canoes will depart French Polynesia in mid-May and will arrive at Magic Island on Oahu for a homecoming celebration on Saturday, June 17.
Filed under: aloha, Announcements, Environment, Hawaiian, National Affairs, Sustainable Living, Transportation | Tagged: Hikianalia, Hokulea, Taputapuatea | Leave a comment »
Community Based Palliative Care Program Hosts Free Talk
Kupu Care, a Community Based Palliative Care program offered exclusively in East Hawai'i by Hospice of Hilo, is inviting the public to join them in their free community talk titled, "Why Does Everyone Need an Advance Health Care Directive" on Wednesday May 3rd , from 5:00pm-6:00pm at the organization's Community Building located at 1011 Waiānuenue Avenue, Hilo.
Kupu Care Patient, Robert Gomes with Wife Phoebe, receiving a health check from Kupu Care Nurse, Julia Lindbergh.
The session will be presented by Kupu Care's Clinical Relations Manager, Lani Weigert. "This program focuses on bringing relief from symptoms caused by treatments for those suffering from serious illness. Kupu Care currently focuses on providing support and relief to both the patient and their caregivers who are dealing with Advanced Congestive Heart Failure or Cancer," explains Weigert.
This month's talk will focus on Advance Health Care Directives. Developed as a result of widespread concerns over patients undergoing medical treatments and procedures in an effort to preserve life at any cost, from a practical standpoint, medical directives and living wills facilitate a person's medical care and decision making in situations when they are temporarily or permanently unable make decisions or verbalize their decisions. By having previously documented personal wishes and preferences, the family's and physicians' immense decision-making burden is lightened. At the same time, patient autonomy and dignity are preserved by tailoring medical care based on one's own choices regardless of mental or physical capacity.
"Medical technology makes it possible for patients with little or no hope of recovery to be kept alive for months or even years. This makes it important to discuss what kind of care you want before serious illness occurs." Said Weigert. "For those who don't have an Advance Health Care Directive, we will discuss how that process is done, and why it's so important to have one. We will explore ideas and beliefs that affect our end of life decisions, who should be involved and the type of medical care you do or don't want."
Those interested in attending the talk are asked to RSVP no later than Tuesday, May 2nd by contacting Lani Weigert at (808) 934-2913 or online at www.kupucare.org (events).
Filed under: Announcements, Big Island, Community, Hawaii, Health, Hilo | Tagged: Kupu Care | Leave a comment »
Nissan $10,000 Rebate on New LEAF Sedan Extended for Hawaiian Electric Companies' Customers
Nissan North America's offer of a $10,000 rebate on the all-electric LEAF® sedan has been extended through June 30, 2017 for Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light Companies' customers.
Customers should take their electric utility bill and the promotional flyer available at hawaiianelectric.com/nissanleaf to any participating Nissan dealer on Oahu, Maui or Hawaii Island to receive $10,000 off the sticker price of a new 2017 LEAF S, SV, or SL, while supplies last. With potential federal tax incentives, savings could total $17,500.
The Hawaiian Electric Companies are leaders in the effort to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Hawaii to help customers save money, to put abundant and less-expensive solar resources to work and to move the state toward its clean energy goals.
The rebate is funded by Nissan, not the utilities. To find a participating Hawaii Nissan dealer, go to nissanusa.com/nissandealers/location/hawaii. The 107-mile range 2017 LEAF, which needs no gasoline, no oil changes and very little maintenance, has a starting price of $30,680.
Filed under: Announcements, Environment, Hawaii, Transportation | Tagged: Hawaii Nissan Leaf Promo | Leave a comment »