The molasses spill in Honolulu Harbor and Keehi Lagoon was a terrible tragedy which could have been prevented. I have received over 1400 emails regarding the spill, and we will be addressing this at the Legislature as soon as we receive more information regarding the Federal investigation being conducted by the EPA. In my opinion, this never should have occurred and we need to insure that it never happens again. As we all know, over 28,000 fish were killed and precious coral beds are dead or dying. Matson has said that it will pay for the clean-up, and I believe that they also need to fund the restoration of the harbor and lagoon. Unfortunately this investigation may be delayed until the budget crisis is resolved in Washington DC.
October 3, 2013
Bye Bye Banyan Tree
We have been notified by the Lani-Kailua Outdoor Circle that the large banyan tree in front of the Kailua Library will be taken down. It is badly diseased and unfortunately cannot be saved. The tree has been somewhat of a landmark in Kailua for generations and will be missed. It will be replaced by one monkey […]
Continue ReadingAugust 6, 2013
Taking Back Our Neighborhoods
Following is a letter which was sent to HPD Chief Kealoha, after a homeless man was violently murdered July 12, 2013 at Kailua District Park: Parking Police District Park . Chief Kealoha has committed to placing a marked police cruiser fronting Kailua District Park as one step in deterring crime in the area. Our thanks goes out to HPD for increasing […]
Continue ReadingJuly 5, 2013
There is no place like home….Kailua on July 4th!
Congratulations to all those who worked so hard to bring back the Kailua Fourth of July Firework Show which has been a Windward tradition since 1948! This year’s display was magnificent and brought the town together in celebrating our nation’s birthday. Thank you to all who donated time, money, hard work and perseverance in making […]
Continue ReadingJuly 4, 2013
Looking seaward for our energy
This commentary was originally printed in The Advertiser on November 16, 2008. The 2008 agreement between Gov. Linda Lingle and the Hawaiian Electric Co. shows that Hawaii is serious about renewable energy. Thus far, we seem to be relying on wind power to meet the admirable goals set by the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative. That’s great, but […]
Continue ReadingJuly 4, 2013
2013 Legislative Session at a Glance: Winners & Losers
WINNERS Repeal PLDC: HB1133, cosponsored by Rep. Thielen, this bill repeals the law that created the Public Land Development Corporation in its entirety. Industrial Hemp: HCR3 encourages Congress and the President to re-state that the congressional intent of the Federal Uniform Controlled Substances Act is not to prohibit growth of industrial hemp, a crop used […]
Continue ReadingJuly 3, 2013
Students Rock the Roadshow
Most people don’t know what it’s like to stand before a House committee and testify for or against a bill, even though every American has this right. That’s one reason why it’s such a pleasure to go into Windward schools and listen to what our students have to say about a few of the bills […]
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