More than 100 gather in Waikiki to warn of offshore drilling's environmental threat

Chocolate-covered surfer girls may not scream environmental disaster to everyone, but for more than 100 people who gathered at Waikiki Beach yesterday to protest the gulf oil spill and to call for an end to American dependence on foreign oil, the image made sweet, sticky sense. Read Article

The tiny 53-vote victory back in 2004 should have been Blake Oshiro's big win.

Challenging the liberal two-term Democrat was perfect-pitch conservative Jerry Coffee, a best-selling author, top-drawer motivational speaker and a certified American war hero Read Article

Key players assess the 2010 Legislature

Every winter, Honolulu Weekly anticipates the coming legislative session with the fervor of football fans. We discuss line-ups, make predictions and revisit the play-by-play of the previous session’s wildest victories and ugliest defeats. Read Article

Local environmentalists urged the U.S. Senate today to take up a climate and clean energy bill passed by the U.S. House last June. Read Article

By Erika Tsuji
Reader Submitted

The Kapolei Judiciary Complex opened its doors to eager West O'ahu residents in March, but until the traditional Hawaiian blessing and dedication on May 28, it had not yet come to full life.

At the blessing ceremony, Senate President Colleen Hanabusa and her colleagues Senators Mike Gabbard, Brian Taniguchi, and Norman Sakamoto presented an Honorary Certificate to Chief Justice Ronald T.Y. Moon, who spearheaded the efforts for the complex over 2 decades ago.

Ninety cadets from the successful Kalaeloa-based Youth ChalleNGe Academy visited the Hawai'i State Capitol on May 13th. Pictured with them is Senator Mike Gabbard, their district legislator, who addressed the group in the Senate Gallery. Read Article

Kapolei High School's graphics media students are hitting the red carpet!

Recently, instructor Daryl Madela's students placed 3rd in HMSA's Anti-Drug Public Service Announcement (PSA) awards, 1st in HMSA's Anti-Tobacco PSA awards, and 1st in Olelo's Recycling PSA awards. Read Article

A right to defend one's home against intruders has been law going back to British common law, and Gov. Linda Lingle has signed into law the specifics of Hawaii's version. It allows a homeowner or tenant to respond with force to trespassers in appropriate circumstances without later being sued for injuring or killing the criminal. Burglars, be warned: This is a reasonable and justified response to crime.Read Article

A lobbyist for personal injury lawyers opposed the governor signing a bill yesterday that protects property owners from being sued by criminals injured on their property. Read Article

Economic problems are stifling the push for new clean energy programs in Hawaii.

In the just-ended legislative session, two major energy bills were considered, with one passing and one failing. Read Article

If Hawaii's civil unions bill becomes law, it will give same-sex and heterosexual partners benefits, spousal liabilities and responsibilities that rival those of marriage.

On that point, both opponents and proponents agree. Read Article

UH West Oahu is one of the newest schools on the island of Oahu. Students recently had the opportunity to relax from studies and to celebrate the success of education during UH West Oahu Day on April 6th, 2010. Read Article

A proposal to use state bonds to help finance loans so homeowners could move to solar and other clean energy systems appears dead at the state Legislature after concerns from counties and mortgage bankers. Read Article

The Hawaii Supreme Court’s ruling requiring the owners of the Turtle Bay Resort to conduct a supplemental environmental impact statement before proceeding with a decades-old expansion plan could have far-reaching effects on other Hawaii projects. Read Article

Erika Tsuji
Reader Submitted

Nothing can stop Caroline Coleman, Children's Librarian at Kapolei Public Library, from hosting her Aloha Tofu Haiku Extravaganza not even a tsunami! The original haiku contest grand finale was scheduled for Saturday, February 27th, but a natural disaster put the event on a 6-week hold, which fortunately didn't slow the momentum or minimize the crowd. Read Article

Erika Tsuji
Reader Submitted

Hundreds of people attended the 12th Annual Waikele Easter Egg Hunt at Waikele Elementary School on April 3rd. The festive event for children of all ages is sponsored by Waikele Community Association each year. Pictured (L to R) are Malcolm Ching (General Manager, Waikele Community Association), Wendy Calio (plays "Nina" on the Disney Channel's Imagination Movers series), Sgt. Roger Nitta, and Senator Mike Gabbard.

By Dan Boylan

For four decades, Hawaii politicians of every persuasion have talked of the state as a laboratory for the development of alternative energy. “We’ve got it all,” the speech goes, “geothermal, solar, wind, wave, biomass.” And so on.

But in 2010, Hawaii remains hopelessly energy dependent. We burn oil. We talk alternative energy. Oh, there’s a state tax credit, a wind farm or two, solar water heaters on a very small percentage of homes in a state where the sun always shines, a tax credit, and a new law that says developers must put solar water heaters on houses built from now on. Read Article

By Mike Gabbard

How’s this for an interesting piece of trivia? The first car that arrived in Hawaii in October 1898 was a Woods Electric owned by Henry P. Baldwin.

I was on Energy Futures,a live call-in radio show on Hawaii Public Radio hosted by Donalyn Dela Cruz, last month to discuss future plans and legislation I introduced to help push for the purchase of electric vehicles. Other guests were Mark Piscioneri, Oahu manager of Hawaii Electric Vehicles, and Maria Tome, transportation and renewable energy program manager for the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Read Article

A House-Senate compromise would save exemptions and kill some proposed new taxes

Many tax breaks or exemptions for local businesses would be preserved under a tentative compromise bill set to move today at the Legislature.

Last night a revision to Senate Bill 2402 was offered that cut the exemptions to $25 million from a projected $112 million. Read Article

By Mike Gabbard

Smart planning takes patience. We have to get it right the first time, because we know how time-consuming and expensive things can be when we get them wrong. Consider how much time and money we've spent fighting invasive species, fixing traffic problems, recovering endangered species or reversing climate change. In Hawai'i, with our fragile environment, it's best to measure twice and cut once.
Read Article

Private groups, others are shaping environmental laws, behind closed doors

A group of builders, environmental groups, lawyers and public agencies and institutions has been quietly meeting in private to help shape the first overhaul of Hawai'i's environmental laws in 40 years, even as lawmakers hold public hearings on a bill that is likely to go nowhere this session. Read Article

Senator Mike Gabbard recently invited Reverend Dr. Bert M. Sumikawa from the Kapolei Buddhist Sangha to deliver the daily invocation before the 25 Senators at the Hawai'i State Capitol on March 22, 2010.

The Kapolei Buddhist Sangha is a relatively new group in Kapolei that is affiliated with the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, a sect of Jodo Shinshu or Shin Buddhism. Services are held on Sunday mornings at 9:30 at the American Renaissance Academy in Kalaeloa. A children's Dharma class is held every other week in conjunction with the Sunday program, and a social hour is held after each service.

Island Pacific Academy held its first career day at the Kapolei-based private, college preparatory school on March 17th. Senator Mike Gabbard, Kapolei Public Library Manager Stacy Kanno, Rich Hargrave of the Civil Air Patrol, and many others got a chance to share their experiences and offer guidance to over 100 eighth grade students. Read Article

Program would help homeowners pay for renewable energy

Trying to nudge homeowners to convert to solar power and reduce dependency on electricity, Gov. Linda Lingle and state lawmakers may authorize state bonds that would finance loans to cover the upfront cost of installation. Read Article

Aloha Tofu sponsors a haiku contest centered on the soy-based staple Read Article

On Jan. 14 I had the pleasure of gathering with community members, local businesspeople, fellow elected officials and representatives of Foodland Supermarkets to break ground and hold an official blessing for the four-acre Kapolei Village Center, which will be anchored by Foodland. Read Article

Prospects for a statewide ban on fireworks dimmed yesterday after a state Senate committee chose to give counties the ability to opt out. Read Article

The 2009 Hawaiian monk seal breeding season produced the fewest pups in at least 10 years as the highly endangered marine mammal species continued its slide toward possible extinction. Read Article

State Sen. Mike Gabbard obtained a temporary restraining order yesterday against a gay rights activist who allegedly punched him at a traditional-values rally at the state Capitol on Sunday. Read Article

The long-stalled civil unions bill is on the move again, but both supporters and opponents say the controversy is not over. Read Article

18-7 vote is enough to override potential veto from governor

The state Senate yesterday passed a civil unions bill with enough votes to override a potential veto, sending a strong message of support to the state House and Gov. Linda Lingle. Read Article

Things are getting a little chippy at the state Capitol over civil unions.

State Sen. Mike Gabbard, D-19th (Kapolei, Makakilo, Waikele), said he was punched in the chest by a gay rights activist at the traditional values rally on Sunday. The senator also said the man tried to jam a protest sign in his face before he was subdued. Read Article

Aloha Friends, Happy New Year! I hope you and your family are well. The 2010 Legislative Session begins on Jan.20.Here’s a look at a few topics on the agenda for this new year. Read Article

Aloha Friends, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Here are a few things I’d like to share with you. Read Article

State Sen. Mike Gabbard said today that he was “surprised, puzzled and disappointed” that Gov. Linda Lingle will apparently not release state money this fiscal year for a climate change task force. Read Article

Gov. Linda Lingle and the state Department of Health are not doing enough to get more H1N1 vaccine into the hands of doctors for high-risk patients, state Sen. Mike Gabbard alleged yesterday.. Read Article

On Oct. 28 I was contacted by a constituent who was having respiratory problems due to the vog coming from the Big Island. The constituent was frustrated by the discrepancies between the data presented on the Department of Health's Online Air Quality and the EPA's AirNow. Read Article

Dear Friends,

It’s been a very difficult time for families in our community and around the state because of the teacher furloughs. As a lifelong educator, I’m committed to finding the best way to resolve this crisis. Read Article

Through a single action, we have an opportunity to save the state money, protect our environment and avoid embarrassing mistakes like the Hawaii Superferry situation. We can accomplish all of this by giving the Hawaii Environmental Council (EC) the support it needs to do its job. Read Article

A climate change task force that was passed into law by the state House and Senate over Gov. Linda Lingle’s veto has yet to hold its first meeting, leading some to wonder whether it will face the same fate as a medical marijuana task force. Read Article

Aloha Friends,

I hope you and your family are well. After many delays and 25 years of waiting, Oct. 5 marked the opening of the Farrington Highway to H-1 section of North South Road. Many mahalos to the state Department of Transportation for getting this project done!

Here are a few things I’d like to share with you: Read Article

A climate change task force that was passed into law by the state House and Senate over Gov. Linda Lingle’s veto has yet to hold its first meeting, leading some to wonder whether it will face the same fate as a medical marijuana task force. Read Article

State Sen. Mike Gabbard, D-19th (Kapolei, Makakilo, Waikele), has written to the state Department of Health asking how the department has responded to the move by the Environmental Council to cancel meetings because of a lack of state support. Read Article

The battle in the Democratic Party over the sanctity of its platform in favor of gay unions became more convoluted with Councilman Gary Okino's announcement that he'll likely challenge 'Aiea Rep. Blake Oshiro in the Democratic primary. Read Article

Honolulu City Councilman Gary Okino, a fiscal and social conservative, plans to challenge liberal state House Majority Leader Blake Oshiro of 'Aiea next year in the Democratic primary in state House District 33. Read Article

There's nothing wrong with a political party that advocates for key planks in its platform. But when its leaders heap disproportionate blame on one individual, defensible advocacy degenerates into a petty smackdown. And it moves the party no closer to its stated goal — in this case, getting a civil unions bill passed. Read Article

A military recruiter accused of using false promises to lure two Kapolei students into enlisting in the Navy may no longer recruit after an official Navy investigation concluded that he had misled the boys. Read Article

State Democrats agreed yesterday to uphold a reprimand against state Sen. Mike Gabbard, finding the senator actively worked against a civil-unions bill last session and undermined the party's platform in favor of equality and civil rights. Read Article

By Mike Gabbard and Mark Duda

This legislative session, Hawai'i took a significant step toward economic recovery and began in earnest to reduce its addiction to carbon-based fuels. The vehicle for this is SB 464, which will attract hundreds of millions in out-of-state and federal investment monies to Hawai'i and accelerate the adoption of clean, reliable, solar energy. Read Article

B.E.A.C.H.
Reader Submitted

In celebration of World Ocean Day, Beach Environmental Awareness Campaign Hawai`i is presenting a special event at the Hawai`i State Capitol auditorium on Monday 8th June, 2009 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The event features guest speaker, Dr. Anthony Andrady, who will present: "The Impact of Plastics on the Health of our Ocean". Read Article

An Interview with Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard.

Hawaii may conjure images of tranquil relaxation for tourists, but not for commuters. In 2008, Honolulu had the dubious distinction of being named the worst city in the nation for the rush-hour travel time by the National Traffic Scorecard, compiled by INRIX, a Seattle-based provider of real-time, predictive traffic information. Along one section of the H-1 Freeway near the Honolulu International Airport, motorists are stuck in traffic for nearly 40 hours each week.

Mike Gabbard, a Democratic state senator ...Read Article

An ambitious state program to blanket roofs at airports and harbors with photovoltaic panels has gotten off to a tepid start, though a bill passed by the Legislature may help accelerate the effort.

Hawai'i's Photovoltaic Energy Systems Project promised to have as much as 34 megawatts of solar power generated on state roofs in two years when it announced the program in January 2008. Read Article

A state senator says Hawaii's uniqueness as an island state calls for unique antiflu steps

By Mike Gabbard

We're in a war with a nasty virus, the swine flu, but look out for other viruses that may be popping their head up in the near future. As in all wars, every theater or front requires a different strategy. Read Article

Mike Gabbard is giving the money back.

He might be the only one who is, though if anyone else is doing something similar, taxpayers would like to know. No word of anything like that. Only Sen. Gabbard has turned down the Legislature's pay raise. Read Article

Another 'Anuenue pupil diagnosed; new cases bring total in Isles to 15

Five more people, including another student at 'Anuenue Elementary School, have been diagnosed with swine flu, bringing the number of Hawai'i cases to 15 so far, the state Health Department announced yesterday. . Read Article

There is no scientific evidence that Oahu North Shore cage-diving tours increase shark attack risk for recreational ocean users in near-shore waters, a two-year study of shark behavior concluded.

Scientists from the Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology noted a lack of proof during the latest shark tour debate, said biologist Carl Meyer. Read Article

Conserving energy while being environmentally friendly are two appealing factors when it comes to living “green,” and inventors - people like Kaneohe resident Richard Maruya - continue to come up with new ideas to help make the world a better place.

Maruya was honored recently at the state Legislature for his non-toxic and non-ozone-depleting invention of a Hydro Carbon Refrigerant 188C (HCR 188C) and selected by the Environmental Protection Agency for the Environmental Achievement Award for 2008, presented to him by state Sens. Jill Tokuda and Mike Gabbard. Read Article

Elections may be 18 months away, but the 76 Democrats and Republicans realize that the big controversial issues from this year will follow them down next year's campaign trail.

Hawaii has had no more divisive social issue in the last decade than same-sex marriage, and it was back again this year without a decision. Read Article

State Sen. Mike Gabbard said today that the state needs to put "a full-court press" at airports to make sure swine flu does not enter the Islands. Read Article

Bill would require biggest stores to collect recyclables
By Robbie Dingeman

Hawai'i's largest retailers will have to collect empty bottles and redeem the 5-cent deposit to consumers under a proposal that is closer to becoming law this year than ever before.

In previous years, retailers have successfully opposed any move to force them to operate bottle redemption centers at the stores where people buy the beverages. Read Article

Legislation would create or increase tax credits to reduce the upfront costs of buying renewable-energy systems such as this solar water heater. . Read Article

Civil-unions debate loudly goes nowhere
by Richard Borecca

STORY SUMMARY

After 18 hours of testimony, the six-member Senate Judiciary Committee deadlocked at 3-3 on a bill that would allow civil unions for same sex partners. The vote came at 3 a.m. today.

The Senate committee began its hearing at 9 a.m. yesterday on House Bill 444, which passed the House earlier this month.

Senate Democrats have said that if the vote was deadlocked they would force the bill to the floor for a vote by the full Senate sometime next week.

If the bill goes before the full Senate, supporters say it will pass. Gov. Lingle has not said what she would do with the bill. Read Article

By Mark Niesse

Impassioned crowds swamped the state Capitol today to tell legislators exactly how they feel about same-sex civil unions: either an attack on traditional marriage or a gateway to equal rights. Read Article

Senate Bill 255 proposes a maximum $1,200 credit for each teleworker
By Nina Wu

A Senate bill making its way through the state legislature proposes tax credits for employers setting up telecommuting programs for employees. Read Article

Supermarkets and retailers say the bills would only increase costs to consumers
By Nina Wu

STORY SUMMARY

Hawaii’s merchants want lawmakers to bag several proposals they say would cost their customers dearly.

Three bills before the state Senate would either prohibit the use of plastic bags by retailers, or provide a financial incentive not to use them.

The Hawaii Food Industry Association and the Retail Merchants of Hawaii are fighting the bills, mainly because of the costs involved.

“Everything’s going to be passed onto the consumer,” said Richard Botti, president of the HFIA. “If it costs the store more, the store’s got to include it in the prices.”

Supporters say it doesn’t make sense to have plastic bags filling up Hawaii’s landfills. Read Article

By Gordon Y.K. Pang and Diana Leone

What happened to Jacqueline Bigno shows why vehicles don't belong on Hawai'i's beaches. Advocates say it is exactly what they have been warning against for years. Read Article

32 of 51 House members sign on to measure that would legalize partnership
By Derrick DePledge

A majority in the state House has signed on to a bill that would legalize civil unions, giving the issue a genuine chance of advancing this session after years of stagnation. Read Article

But HECO still hasn't reimbursed 1,400 for power failure in 2006
By Rick Daysog

Hawaiian Electric Co. has received about 370 claims from individuals and businesses who suffered losses from last month's islandwide blackout — but don't expect the local utility to mail out reimbursement checks anytime soon. Read Article

The electric company is expected to confirm lightning as the cause of Oahu's blackout
By Laurie Au

Hawaiian Electric Co. expects to have a preliminary report this week on the cause of the Dec. 26 islandwide power failure that will likely reaffirm its initial belief that the blackout started because of a lightning storm. Read Article

Military Matters
by Mike Gabbard

I recently returned from one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life: the Hawaii Civic Leaders Tour at Fort Hood, Texas. The event gave local business and community leaders a chance to see up close the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Hawaii Army National Guard and the vital mission it performs. Read Article

The Hawaii Senate on Thursday announced its leadership and committee chair assignments for the 2009 session.

Colleen Hanabusa will begin her third term as Senate president in January, with Russell Kokubun as the new vice president. Gary Hooser remains majority leader.. Read Article

State Senate President Colleen Hanabusa, D-21st (Nanakuli, Makaha), and her leadership team today announced committee assignments and other changes for the upcoming session of the state Legislature. Read Article

By Gregg K. Kakesako

Tammy Kubo, owner of Hawaii Pet Nanny and mother of Kuwait-bound soldier Spc. William Lurbe Jr., was among several hundred Hawaii residents who flew to Fort Hood in Texas to see their loved ones at Wednesday's farewell ceremony for the 29th Brigade Combat Team. "Seeing three days of training comforts me. I know he has been trained really well," she said. Read Article

By Gregg K. Kakesako

FORT HOOD, Texas » Hawaii's 29th Brigade Combat Team is going back to war.
More than 600 people — many of them from the islands — made a special trip yesterday to Fort Hood, Texas, near Waco, to give the "Lava Brigade" a Hawaii send-off as it prepared to leave for a nine-month tour in Kuwait at the end of the month. Read Article

By Gregg K. Kakesako

FORT HOOD, Texas » When the Hawaii Army National Guard begins its second combat tour in Iraq and Kuwait later this year, it will have the benefit of wartime experience and several months of high-tech training. Read Article

By Gregg K. Kakesako

FORT HOOD, Texas » They're ready to go.

Poised at the country's largest Army post, more than 1,700 soldiers from Hawaii are completing two months of drills and will leave for Kuwait beginning next week. Read Article

By Diana Nomura

KAPOLEI — More than 350 residents in the Villages of Kapolei haven't received a single parcel of mail at their homes since the beginning of this year, and they're not happy about the lack of service.

The homes, which sit on a 52-acre subdivision known as Kaupea, are owned by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) and were purposely built without home delivery boxes. But residents say that even the promised cluster box units (CBUs) - which the United States Postal Service (USPS) has been adding to new housing developments across the country as a way of slashing growing costs in mail service - aren't an available option at the moment. Read Article

Doesn't make sense to live in paradise and stress over commutes

By Sen. Mike Gabbard

A pilot project in the state Department of Human Resources Development for a four-day work week? It's about time. This makes perfect sense as our soaring gas prices and traffic congestion take their toll on everyone in Hawai'i. It's a good first step in getting people off our roads and allowing them to spend more time with their families. But we can do much more.... . Read Article

Aloha Friends,

I hope you and your family are enjoying the summer. Here are a few things I’d like to share with you.

Important Legislation Passes

Three important pieces of legislation that I authored passed the Legislature this session: SB 1891 gives the Department of Land and Natural Resources greater enforcement powers to protect our public lands and prevent ATVs and other vehicles from illegally driving on our beaches; SB 2373 requires retailers to maintain an electronic log of pseudoephedrine sales (a primary ingredient in making “ice") and submit a monthly report... . Read Article

Bill allows for citations, other penalties; Lingle's signature is all that's left

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources could soon have the muscle it needs to combat a problem that has plagued Wai'anae Coast residents, pedestrians and motorists for years: Illegal all-terrain vehicles tearing along beaches, roadways and wilderness areas.

A bill giving DLNR... . Read Article

Talking Story With Sen. Mike Gabbard

Aloha, I hope you and your family are well! I’d like to share a few things that are happening at the Capitol:

Important Legislation Back on Track in 2008

Last year, I introduced two bills that would help better protect both Hawaii residents and our environment. SB 1617, SD1 and SB 1891, SD1 passed unanimously through the state Senate in 2007 but stalled in the House. Fortunately, I’ve been able to work with my colleagues in the House to get this critical legislation moving again.. ... . Read Article

Aloha,
I hope you and your family are well! Here are a few things I'd like to share with you:

Bill Would Help Fight "Ice"

You might have heard that DEA officers recently busted "ice" dealers in Royal Kunia. The officers seized 50 pounds of "ice" with a street value of over $1 million. This is one of the largest drug busts in Hawaii history. ... . Read Article

I hope you and your family are well! I’d like to share the following with you this month:

Legislation Moving Forward

Several bills that I introduced this session are moving forward at the Capitol. All of them have passed the first round of committee hearings with a unanimous vote ... . Read Article

I hope you and your family are well! I’d like to share the following with you this month:

Legislation Moving Forward

Several bills that I introduced this session are moving forward at the Capitol. All of them have passed the first round of committee hearings with a unanimous vote ... . Read Article

BY MIKE GABBARD

Eighty-five percent of Hawaii residents think it's important that genetically engineered fruit be labeled. That was the shocking statistic that I read in a study by Sabry Shehata, an agricultural economics professor at the University of Hawaii-Hilo.

If you're not familiar, genetic engineering, producing what... . Read Article

Talking Story With Sen. Mike Gabbard

Aloha! I hope you and your family are well.

You may have noticed that more and more of our supermarkets are carrying organic foods. My family and I have been eating organic foods ... Read Article

Aloha, I hope you and your family are well and enjoying 2008! Here are a few things I'd like to share with you:

State Legislature in Session

From January 16th to May 1st, the State Legislature will be in session. During this time, we will be considering thousands of bills which may or may not become law. I encourage you to get involved in the process by testifying... . Read Article

STORY SUMMARY »
Two bills affecting one of the fastest-growing industries in Hawaii have been introduced to the state legislature.

Sen. Mike Gabbard is proposing the mandatory labeling of genetically modified whole foods sold in Hawaii, as well requiring growers to say what is being grown in the state and where.

Gabbard says his bills reflect the wishes of the majority of consumers in Hawaii, but the companies that test such crops here say they are unnecessary. ... Read Article

Aloha and Happy New Year! I want to let you know about an exciting bill that I’ve drafted for the next legislative session which has the potential to make our roads a lot safer for you and your family.

The bill would do two main things: First, it would require the state, by July 2010, to transfer all the revenue it takes in from uncon-tested traffic fines and give that money to the counties where it rightfully belongs. By uncontested traffic fines, I’m referring to those ... . Read Article

Aloha and Happy New Year! The old cliché “time flies when you’re having fun” surely applies to me. I've very much appreciated the opportunity to serve as your State Senator for the past year and look forward to working with you in the years ahead. Here are a few things I'd like to share with you.

Community Input on Legislation 2008

Through my "listen-story" meetings and conversations with constituents I've received a lot of great ideas for bills that could benefit our community. Here are a couple .... . Read Article

New Committee Assignments

I'm pleased to announce that I’ve been appointed to serve as Vice Chair of the Senate’s Transportation and International Affairs Committee (TIA). My first order of business was attending the Superferry Hearings on the Neighbor Islands. Being Vice Chair of TIA is a perfect fit for the people of District 19. I plan to use this leadership position in my continuing efforts to reduce our traffic.... . Read Article

Aloha and Happy New Year!

The old cliché “time flies when you’re having fun” surely applies to me. I've very much appreciated the opportunity to serve as your State Senator for the past year and look forward to working with you in the years ahead. Here are a few things I'd like to share with you: ... . Read Article

Aloha! I hope you and your family are doing well.

Senator Will Espero and I led a delegation from the State Senate on a tour of the site of the former Honouliuli Internment Camp on Saturday morning, September 29th. The Kunia site, which is now overgrown with vegetation, is located on agricultural land (west side of Kunia Road) currently owned by Monsanto Corporation.... . Read Article

Aloha, I hope you and your family are well. Here are a few things I'd like to share with you:

Repairs and Maintenance for Kapolei Schools

It was great news to hear that Governor Lingle released $25 million in funding that we had appropriated this past legislative session for the repair and maintenance of schools across the state. You might have heard or read in the media that because of budget shortfalls some of the school repairs were in danger ... Read Article

By Linda Dela Cruz

Parents can get some pointers on child-rearing from prolific author and former family psychologist John Rosemond, who will be in Hawaii next week to share his knowledge.

His first talk, “Assuming the Power of Parenthood,"is scheduled for 7 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 6 at Hope Chapel Kapolei in Kalaeloa.

Rosemond’s visit is sponsored by Stand Up For America, .... Read Article

By Shawn James Leavey

"Why do they hide? What's there to hide?" asks Dr. Sabry Shehata, talking about the invisible and unlabeled genetically modified food that stocks our grocery stores and produce markets.

"For practical purposes, it's the people's right to know. That's my opinion," says Shehata, a UH-Hilo professor of agricultural economics. The professor's work ... . Read Article

The Volunteer Special Enforcement Officers Program Wants You!

In 2003, while I was a Honolulu City Councilman (Ewa-Kapolei-Waianae), I authored and introduced legislation creating a volunteer policing program within HPD. I got the idea from speaking to Neighborhood Security Watch volunteers in my district ... . Read Article

Party respects all regardless of religion

Whoever the so-called Democrat was who evidently grilled Sen. Mike Gabbard about his "religious affiliation" ("Sen. Gabbard bolts GOP for Democratic Party," Aug. 31) does not represent the values and attitude of the Democratic Party.

It's intolerable for those who call themselves Democrats to hide under the guise of our "big tent" philosophy and then try to grill someone about their religion. We are a party that respects and values everyone regardless of their race, ethnic group, gender or religion.
The Democratic Party doesn't have any room for religious bigots.

Victor Perera
Honolulu

Last week, Sen. Mike Gabbard made his switch to the Democratic Party official, much to the chagrin of former Republican colleagues, the Honolulu Star-Bulletin reports. "His social views didn't all of a sudden change, which caused him to identify more closely with the Democrat Party. I think it's about...Read Article

Gabbard's party isn't the important thing

Democratic or Republican party -- it doesn't matter to the resident of Kapolei. We like Sen. Mike Gabbard, that's why we have him in the job he is in! The parties should be worried about whether or not they really have the citizens' best interests at heart. Out here we support Mike and his staff. He has given good, faithful and sincere service to this district. Thanks, Mike.

Brad Hayes
Kapolei

Democrats oppose gay marriage

I'm a proud Democrat, as my parents and grandparents are. The main reason I'm happy that Mike Gabbard has joined our party is that I now feel I, and the vast majority of Democrats who voted to protect traditional marriage, have at least one of our Democratic leaders who is in touch with our values.

The truth is that most of us do not want civil unions or same-sex marriage in Hawaii. With Gabbard a member of the majority party, it will be even less likely that gay activists will be able to shove this down our throats.

Gabbard is a great addition to the Democratic Party and will do a lot of good by bringing crossover Republican and independent voters to our party.

Saundra Hirano
Kailua

Funding Released for Improvements to Kapolei High School

I was very pleased to learn that Governor Lingle announced on August 6th that she has released $4,797,000 in funding for improvements to the athletic facilities at Kapolei High School. The funds will go toward constructing and equipping the announcer’s booth, bleachers, concession stands, and restrooms. Construction on the project is scheduled to begin ... . Read Article

Saying that he has always been a politician who followed his conscience, Sen. Mike Gabbard switched to the Democratic Party yesterday, disappointing Republicans and further weakening their presence in the state Senate.

Surrounded by his family, friends and other politicians, including U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, who Gabbard said played an "instrumental" role in the switch, the ... Read Article

State Sen. Mike Gabbard switched political parties yesterday and became a Democrat, explaining that he believes he can be more effective to his constituents as part of the majority in the Senate.

"It took a lot of soul-searching," Gabbard, D-19th (Kapolei, Makakilo, Waikele), said at an afternoon news conference at ... Read Article

The Volunteer Special Enforcement Officers Program Wants You!

In 2003, while I was a Honolulu City Councilman representing West Oahu from Ewa to the Waianae Coast, I authored and introduced legislation creating a volunteer policing program within HPD. I got the idea from speaking to Neighborhood Security Watch volunteers in my district who were fed up with crime and drug abuse that was threatening our kama’aina way of life... . Read Article

Attention seniors, retirees, or independently wealthy folks with time on your hands! If you're bored playing golf every day, or if your "honey-do" list keeps getting longer and longer and you want to get out of the house, then there's an opportunity knocking at the door that you may not want to pass up... Read Article

I am a teacher in a suburb of Minneapolis, Minn. In June, my class of at-risk students embarked on an adventure in Hawaii; first at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and then in Oahu. In order to be in my "Leadership" class and to be on this trip, students have to decide to change their lives.

One of the true highlights of our trip was meeting your wonderful state senator, Mike Gabbard, his wife Carol, and several of his staff members... Read Article

National Conference of State Legislatures' (NCSL) Forum a Great Learning Experience

I attended NCSL's Forum – "Opportunities for Working Families" in Denver from June 10 – 13th. The Hawaii delegation also included Senators Chun Oakland and Hooser and Reps. Awana, Rhodes and Mizuno. The focus of the forum was assets management and financial literacy. Our delegation came up with an action plan to give greater opportunities to low-income working families. I was especially surprised to learn there are approximately 27,000... Read Article

National Conference of State Legislatures' Forum a Great Learning Experience

I attended NCSL's Forum – "Opportunities for Working Families" in Denver from June 10 – 13th. I was joined by Senators Chun Oakland and Hooser and Reps. Awana, Rhodes and Mizuno. The focus of the forum was assets management and financial literacy. Our delegation came up with an action plan to give greater opportunities to low-income working families. I was especially surprised to learn there are approximately 27,000 taxpayers ... Read Article

Key Transportation Projects Moving Forward

I'm very pleased that many key transportation projects are moving forward. This year the Legislature appropriated $55 million for the North-South Road. As many of you know, the North-South Road has been a dream for over 30 years. Recently, I had the opportunity to drive out to the site between Ewa and Kapolei and saw with my own eyes that the construction is underway. Even better, I went up in a small plane and got a great aerial view.... Read Article

North-South Road Moving Forward

This year the Legislature appropriated $55 million for the North-South Road. As many of you know, the North-South Road has been a dream for over 30 years. Recently, I had the opportunity to drive out to the site between Ewa and Kapolei and saw with my own eyes that the construction is underway. Even better, I went up in a small plane and got a great aerial view. The North-South Road will be a six-lane divided road from Kapolei Parkway to the H-1 Freeway.... Read Article

University of Hawaii – West Oahu

Probably the best news of the session is the $135 million in funding that was approved this year for the new University of Hawaii – West Oahu (UHWO) campus. As you might remember, last year this funding didn't make it into the budget, which was a great disappointment to our community ... Read Article

University of Hawaii – West Oahu

Probably the best news of the 2007 legislative session is the $135 million in funding that was approved this year for the new University of Hawaii – West Oahu (UHWO) campus. As you might remember, last year this funding didn't make it into the budget, which was a great disappointment to our community ... Read Article

University of Hawaii – West Oahu

After waiting for over 30 years, the University of Hawaii--West Oahu (UHWO) campus will finally become a reality. Probably the best news of the legislative session is the $135 million in funding that was approved this year for UHWO. As you might remember, last year this funding didn't make it into the budget, which was a great disappointment to our community.... Read Article

University of Hawaii – West Oahu

Probably the best news is the $135 million in funding that was approved this year for the new UH – West Oahu campus. The initial phase of the campus will be located on the Diamond Head side of Kapolei Golf Course and will include 4 buildings. Construction will begin in early 2008 and the new campus will open its doors in the Fall 2009. ... Read Article

Hawaii 2050 Needs Your Input

I was invited to serve as a member of the Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Task Force (Hawaii 2050), which was created by the Legislature in 2005. The goal of the statewide task force is to come up with a long-range plan to guide future policy decisions so we can achieve a sustainable environment, community, and economy. The plan is scheduled to be presented to the Legislature in December, 2007. The task force has 25 members... Read Article

State Budget Moving Forward

The State Budget (House Bill 500) is now in Conference Committee, where members of the House and Senate meet to work out an agreement on the final form of the budget. If you're not familiar, the State Budget includes the operating expenses for the different state agencies and departments, and the capitol improvements, which include road construction, school repair, and grants-in-aid. We're still working out the details... Read Article

Hawaii 2050 Needs Your Input

I was invited to serve as a member of the Hawaii 2050 Sustainability Task Force (Hawaii 2050), which was created by the Legislature in 2005. The goal of the statewide task force is to come up with a long-range plan to guide future policy decisions so we can achieve a sustainable environment, community, and economy. The plan is scheduled to be presented to the Legislature in December, 2007. The task force has 25 members... Read Article

By Mike Gabbard

PICTURE this scenario: After an exhausting day at the office, it's 11 p.m., you've tucked the kids in bed, and you and your wife turn out the lights to go to sleep. In the middle of the night, a burglar breaks into your bedroom intent on stealing your valuables. You catch him in the act, tackle him, he falls down the stairs and breaks his arm and suffers a concussion. The police haul him away, and the courts put him in jail for a long time because of his many prior arrests. Then one day, you're handed legal papers ... Read Article

Former state Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Tamayo graduated March 9 at the top of her class at Alabama Military Academy’s Officer Candidate School.

Out of a class of 155 candidates, she was chosen by her peers to receive the Distinguished Honor Graduate award, which recognizes overall achievement in the areas of leadership, academics, physical fitness and peer evaluations. ... Read Article

Aloha. I hope you and your family are in good health.
To give you a sampling of what is going on in the Legislature, the Homeowner Protection Bill has passed the Senate.

Picture yourself and your family in the following scenario: In 2006, Dr. Michael Rainiero, a homeowner in Janesville, Wis., awoke one evening to find an intruder in his hallway. Rainiero asked the intruder to leave several times, but the intruder refused. ... Read Article

Senate Democrats have handed Gov. Linda Lingle her first Cabinet nominee defeat and left the Department of Public Safety without a leader.

By a 16-to-9 vote yesterday, the Senate said "no" to nominee Iwalani White's confirmation as the director of the troubled department. ... Read Article

A bill in the state Legislature that would have given a state agency funds to buy 500 acres in Kalaeloa from the U.S. Navy is dead in the water, but community activists still believe they can revive the former military base.

The state Hawaii Community Development Authority sought $250 million in bonds over a 20-year horizon to buy the lands to jump-start economic development there.
Now it will have to seek those funds elsewhere. ... Read Article

PICTURE this scenario: After an exhausting day at the office, it's 11 p.m., you've tucked the kids in bed, and you and your wife turn out the lights to go to sleep. In the middle of the night, a burglar breaks into your bedroom intent on stealing your valuables. You catch him in the act, tackle him, he falls down the stairs and breaks his arm and suffers a concussion. The police haul him away, and the courts put him in jail for a long time because of his many prior arrests. Then one day, you're handed legal papers ... Read Article

WHILE Hawaii's congressional delegation was disappointed by the Navy's recent decision to base an aircraft carrier in San Diego instead of Pearl Harbor, proponents of an ambitious plan by the state for redevelopment of land at Kalaeloa were encouraged by an end to the uncertainty. A state Senate committee chairman who has injected new uncertainty by killing legislation necessary to go forward with the plans should not be allowed to bury them. ... Read Article

Honoring Kapolei Middle School Speech Contest

I had the privilege of honoring four special people at the Legislature on February 5th. Kapolei Middle School teacher, Ms. Joy Lynch, worked tirelessly and organized the first USS Arizona Memorial Scholarship Speech Contest at Kapolei Middle School. The speech contest was held on June 16, 2006. Flora Cross who is now a 9th grader at Kamehameha Schools, won first place. Ninth grade Kapolei High students Rebecca Manahan and Tafia ... Read Article

Gabbard Bills Pass Senate Unanimously

I was happy to see two bills that I introduced, SB 1891 and SB 1617, pass the Senate unanimously on March 6, 2007. Both of these bills would help to better protect our community. SB 1891 would allow the Department of Land and Natural Resources to make arrests, confiscate vehicles, and issue criminal citations to address the problem of ATVs and other vehicles creating a safety hazard for families, Read Article

Homeowner Protection Bill Passes Senate

Picture yourself and your family in the following scenario: In 2006, Dr. Michael Rainiero, a homeowner in Jainesville, Wisconsin, awoke one evening to find an intruder in his hallway. Rainiero asked the intruder to leave several times, but the intruder refused. Rainiero then went back into his bedroom and grabbed a pistol. ... Read Article

Homeowner Protection Bill Passes Senate

Picture yourself and your family in the following scenario: In 2006, Dr. Michael Rainiero, a homeowner in Jainesville, Wisconsin, awoke one evening to find an intruder in his hallway. Rainiero asked the intruder to leave several times, but the intruder refused. Rainiero then went back into his bedroom and grabbed a pistol. ... Read Article

The U.S. Navy's decision yesterday to shift the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier to San Diego instead of Pearl Harbor removes a shadow over the redevelopment of potentially valuable land at Kalaeloa in West O'ahu.

The possible relocation of the carrier to Pearl Harbor and its air wing to Kalaeloa had colored almost every new idea for land on or near the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station, from affordable housing and high-tech ... Read Article

Legislation Takes Aim at Graffiti
Graffiti is a big problem all over our community. I wanted you to know that there are two bills moving forward at the Legislature to address this problem. SB 676 was authored by Senator Clarence Nishihara who was assisted by Mr. Malcolm Ching, the General Manager of the Community Association, and his fellow members of Take Action Against Graffiti (T.A.A.G). This bill would require a tagger to complete 80 hours of community service ... Read Article

The state Senate yesterday confirmed Glenn Kim as a Circuit Court judge for O'ahu, finding that the Honolulu deputy prosecutor has the intellect and integrity necessary for the 10-year appointment to the bench.

The 16-9 vote, after a lengthy private caucus among majority Senate Democrats, overruled the recommendation of the Senate Judiciary and Labor Committee, which had narrowly opposed Kim's confirmation. ... Read Article

Mark Recktenwald, director of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, appears headed for approval as the Intermediate Court of Appeals chief judge.

But the Senate Judiciary Committee that approved Recktenwald's nomination has rejected the nomination of city Deputy Prosecutor Glenn Kim to the Oahu Circuit Court. ... Read Article

On February 5, 2007, Senator Mike Gabbard presented Rudy Gabrillo with an honorary certificate
on behalf of the Hawaii State Senate during a ceremony at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard.
Senator Gabbard recognized Mr. Gabrillo for receiving the first civilian George S.B. Walters
Shipyard Service Award at the 46th Annual Navy League Sea Services Awards luncheon
on December 8, 2006 at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. .. Read Article

Honoring Kapolei Middle School Speech Contest I had the privilege of honoring four special people at the legislature on February 5th. Kapolei Middle School teacher, Ms. Joy Lynch, worked tirelessly and organized the first USS Arizona Memorial Scholarship Speech Contest at Kapolei Middle School. The speech contest was held on June 16, 2006. Flora Cross, who is now a 9th grader at Kamehameha Schools, won first place. Ninth grade Kapolei High students Rebecca Manahan ... Read Article

Honoring Kapolei Middle School Speech Contest

Aloha! Recently, I had the privilege of honoring four special people on the floor of the State Senate on Monday, February 5th: Ms. Joy Lynch and former Kapolei Middle School students Flora Cross, Rebecca Manahan, and Tafia Taimalelagi.

Last year, Ms. Joy Lynch, an 8th grade Language Arts teacher at Kapolei Middle School , visited the ...Read Article

Everything is going well, as I slip into my new role as state Senator representing the people of Senate District 19 (Waikele to Ko Olina). I’m a member of the Transportation and International Affairs Committee, Education Committee, and the Judiciary and Labor Committee. These committees match up nicely with what you told me were your most important issues: traffic, education and crime. ... Read Article

Kapolei Middle School teacher Joy Lynch and three of her former students were honored Feb. 5 by state Sen. Mike Gabbard for their part in last year’s USS Arizona Memorial Speech Contest.
Lynch, an eight grade language arts teacher, organized the contest after visiting the Pearl Harbor Memorial and Hiroshima peace memorial. . ... Read Article

Everything is going well, as I slip into my new role as State Senator representing the people of Senate District 19 (Waikele to Ko Olina). I'm a member of the Transportation and International Affairs Committee, Education Committee, and the Judiciary and Labor Committee. These committees match up nicely with what you told me were your most important issues: traffic, education, and crime.... Read Article

Hale Kalanianaole broke ground Jan. 23 for the construction of a two-story, 45,000-square-foot office building in Kapolei.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will relocate its offices to the building when it is completed in 2008. Community leaders at the groundbreaking ceremony included Gov. Linda Lingle, Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona, and Hawaiian Homes . ... Read Article

Honoring Kapolei Middle School Speech Contest
Aloha! Recently, I had the privilege of honoring four special people on the floor of the State Senate on Monday, February 5th: Ms. Joy Lynch and former Kapolei Middle School students Flora Cross, Rebecca Manahan, and Tafia Taimalelagi. ... Read Article

HONOLULU (AP) - Trying to avoid a heated battle over gay marriage, Hawaii lawmakers are considering a renewed push to grant same-sex couples similar benefits through civil unions.

Democratic legislators, who hold overwhelming majorities in both the state House and Senate, ... Read Article

State officials want to stop residents from using their all-terrain vehicles on state beaches, an act that damages Hawaii's natural environment and wildlife and endangers beach goers, they said.

Sen. Mike Gabbard (R, Kalaeloa-Makakilo) said restoring criminal penalties to driving an ATV on the beach will help eliminate the problem. ... Read Article

Villages of Kapolei Maintenance

Shortly after taking office, I sat down with Dan Davidson, the Director of Hawaii Housing Finance & Development Corporation (HHFDC). This is the newly created state agency that oversees the Villages of Kapolei and the development of affordable housing in Hawaii (formally HCDCH). Before I took office, I had contacted Mr. Davidson .. Read Article

When the Honolulu City Lights show opens tonight on the City Hall lawn, there will be four displays celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Nonprofit organizations are permitted to present their holiday messages in a corner of the municipal holiday exhibition that features bigger-than-life displays of toys, elves, snow people and Santa. ... Read Article

After a grueling campaign of knocking on doors, sign-waving, and spending hours on the
phone, I’m honored to have been chosen by voters in Senate District 19 (Waikele, Village Park, Royal Kunia, Makakilo, Kapolei, Kalaeloa, Honokai Hale and portions of Waipahu and Ko Olina) to serve in the State Senate. . ... Read Article

After a grueling campaign of knocking on doors, signwaving, and spending hours on the phone, I’m honored to have been chosen by voters in Senate District 19 (Waikele - Ko Olina) to serve in the State Senate. I received 56% of the vote. I commend my opponent, retired police captain George Yamamoto, for running a clean and honest campaign. I also want to thank former senator Brian Kanno for his 14 years of service to the community.... Read Article

State Senate President Robert Bunda and House Speaker Calvin Say hope to get enough support to retain their leadership. In the senate, the balance of Democrats to Republicans remains the same. Sen. Bunda’s supporter, Sen. Brian Kanno’s seat was taken by Republican Mike Gabbard. ... Read Article

President Bush called the Republican Party's defeat last Tuesday a "thumping."
But here at home, while Hawai'i's Republicans lost seats at the Capitol, they handily retained the top spot. Gov. Linda Lingle's win shows competency can trump ideology. Lingle's strategy demonstrates that when you are forced to lead from the middle, a minority party can indeed attract the majority of voters. ... Read Article

Gov. Linda Lingle cruised to victory and re-election, but her dreams of making Hawaii's Republican Party a competitive political force failed.

Lingle's win over Democrat Randy Iwase may be the only major victory for the Hawaii GOP on a day when the national party lost control of the U.S. House in yesterday's election. ... Read Article

Democrats strengthened their hold on the state Legislature by doing a better job than Republicans at grabbing open seats, particularly in the state House, where the GOP lost two seats.
Democrats now control 43 seats in the House while the number of Republicans went down to eight from a high of 19 following the 2000 election. ... Read Article

Democrats will maintain their solid clout in the state Legislature next year — and add a little more — after winning nearly all the House and Senate seats that had no incumbent in the running.

The majority party lost one House seat, but more than made up for that by winning three more. Democrats also lost one Senate seat, but broke even by gaining another. ... Read Article

...The vacancy created by the departure of Democratic Sen. Brian Kanno, a Bunda supporter, from his West Oahu District 19 seat, which includes Kapolei, is leaving open the possibility that a Republican could take the seat. That Republican is former City Councilman Mike Gabbard, who is up against Democrat George Yamamoto, a member of the Makakilo/Kapolei/Honokai Hale Neighborhood Board. ... Read Article

Former city councilman Mike Gabbard and retired police officer George Yamamoto will face off in the Nov. 7 general election for the West O'ahu Senate seat that's been occupied by Brian Kanno since 1992.

Gabbard, a Republican, served on the Honolulu City Council from 2002 to 2004. He chose to forgo a re-election bid for a shot at the 2nd Congressional District seat that was won by incumbent Ed Case... Read Article

Aloha! I'm a candidate for State Senate District #19. I've always felt that the only way to truly find out what's in people's hearts and minds is to knock on their door and ask them. I recently finished walking the whole district and was happy to meet you in person and hear what your concerns, complaints, and suggestions are. Mahalo to you who filled out the questionnaire I distributed and also thanks to those of you who emailed or phoned in your responses.

Here's what you said: ... Read Article

Party strategists have identified some of the most competitive state House and Senate races in November. Democrats are expected to keep control of both chambers, but the election could influence internal leadership and determine which party has momentum...

. Senate District 19 (Kapolei, Makakilo). Former Honolulu City Councilman Mike Gabbard (R) has done solid field work in the district for months and has an advantage in name recognition over retired police captain George Yamamoto (D). ... Read Article

Voter turnout for Saturday's primary was 42 percent, only slightly higher than the past two primary elections despite a record number of absentee voters and the heavy media attention on the Democratic primary for Senate between U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka and U.S. Rep. Ed Case.

The strategy by both campaigns to target absentee voters, and the general convenience of voting by mail or by walk-in at early voting sites before election day, pushed absentee voting to 37 percent of the turnout. Two years ago, the absentee vote was 32 percent; it was 25 percent in 2002... Read Article

19 Kapolei, Waikele

Party: Republican

Born: Jan. 15, 1948 in American Samoa . In Hawa'i almost 25 years

Job: Owner, MC Services (healthy living technologies) and Hawaiian Toffee Treasures (candy)

Lives: Kapolei.

Experience:
City Council 2002-04. Founder and president, Stand Up For America.

Why are you running for office?... Read Article

STATE SENATE 19 KALAELOA-MAKAKILO
Mike Gabbard
Republican
Age: 58
Job: Entrepreneur running several businesses ranging from healthy living technologies
Past: Councilman, small businessman, educator

Rep. Ed Case's pet political ploy of writing rhetorical public letters to his campaign opponents is becoming obnoxious. Case has sent a series of such missives to Sen. Daniel Akaka in their Democratic primary contest for the U.S. Senate, most of them agitating for debates.

...Case used similar tactics in his 2004 reelection campaign against Mike Gabbard, writing a series of public letters to Gabbard predicting personal attacks against him that never occurred... Read Article

Aloha! I humbly offer to serve you, the residents of Senate District #19 (Honokai Hale, Makakilo, Kapolei, Kalaeloa, Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waikele, and portions of Ko Olina and Waipahu) as your State Senator.

As a life-long teacher/educator, small businessman, and former Honolulu City Councilman (District #1, stretching from Ewa Beach to Makaha), I have the necessary background and experience to do an effective job tackling our community's problems, whether its traffic congestion, overcrowded schools, crime, or the high cost of living... Read Article

At least eight lawmakers and possibly more will not be returning to their seats in the Hawai'i Legislature next session, leaving open several key leadership positions.

Those are the known departures, with the latest announcement from Maui 's Republican Rep. Chris Halford yesterday. More changes will likely be in the offing as House members and some senators face challenges to their re-election and one could win a seat in Congress... Read Article

The Federal Elections Commission has rejected a 2-year-old complaint filed against former City Councilman Mike Gabbard during his unsuccessful campaign for Congress in 2004.

Big Island resident Alex Achmat had filed a complaint, charging that there was a pattern of large donations made to Gabbard by unverifiable and modestly employed contributors.

Gabbard rejected the charges and had filed a cross-claim, saying Achmat had been harassing and intimidating those who contributed to him... Read Article

The Federal Election Commission cleared former Republican congressional candidate Mike Gabbard of a complaint that his campaign violated campaign finance laws in 2004.

Gabbard, who lost to Democrat Ed Case in the race for Hawai'i's 2nd Congressional District, had been the subject of a complaint that his campaign accepted money given under a falsified name and submitted false reports.

A March 27 report by an FEC investigator concluded that the complaint that Friends of Gabbard accepted money in the name of another person was "meritless."... Read Article

Schatz and Hogue are giving up their seats to run for the congressional seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Ed Case.

State Sen. Brian Kanno, the chairman of the Senate Labor Committee and one of the most consistent allies of organized labor, told his colleagues yesterday that he would not run for re-election this year.

Kanno, D-19th (Kapolei, Makakilo, Waikele), said he will complete a master's degree in social work from the University of Hawai'i-Manoa this year and would seek a job in the field. He now works part time at Child & Family Service, a human services group... Read Article

Former Honolulu City Councilman Mike Gabbard announced yesterday he will run in the Republican primary for Leeward State Senate District 19, setting up a potential contest against veteran state Sen. Brian Kanno in what could be one of the most watched Senate races this year.

Gabbard, with his wife, Carol, and daughter, Tulsi, by his side at the state Capitol, said he considered a campaign for U.S. Congress for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawai'i, but chose the State Senate after speaking with family and supporters.

He held petitions that he said were signed by more than 2,500 people from the district who wanted him to run for Senate... Read Article

Armed with petitions of 3,000 signatures of support, former Honolulu City Councilman Mike Gabbard announced his candidacy to challenge 14-year Democratic incumbent Sen. Brian Kanno for his seat representing West Oahu.

Gabbard, a Republican known for his opposition to same-sex marriage, said he also considered a run for the seat in Congress being vacated by U.S. Rep. Ed Case, who is challenging U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka... Read Article

I wasn't going to play golf on March 21, but the weather forecasters kept predicting big storms coming later in the week. I went to 'Ewa Villages where I knew I could team up with some regulars.

We teed off on the 10th hole around 6:30 a.m., with black clouds looming above.

Because of the rain, No. 18 was scaled down from a par 4 to a par 3... Read Article