Maui News

“While there are challenging times ahead, I know President Obama cares deeply for the people of Hawaii and our nation,” said Sen. Hirono.

Effective February 1, 2013, General Assistance payments made by the state’s Human Services department, will be reduced from $319 to $298 per person per month. This will affect an estimated 5,537 Hawaii beneficiaries.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa spent the weekend in Washington DC, as a participant in the US Conference of Mayors. The mayor also attended the Presidential Center Inaugural Gala on Saturday.

Most of the enrollment decline occurred at our community colleges, which could be attributed to the upswing we’re starting to see in the economy. During the economic downturn, students turned to the community colleges for short-term training and now they’re re-entering the workforce.

The goals of the trade mission include: increasing business activity by promoting Hawaii and the Philippines as investment and tourism destinations, encouraging trade and economic activities across the Pacific region, and developing renewable and green technology.

The department had planned to resume production at the Olinda Facility this week; however, due to unanticipated equipment problems the Olinda WTF will remain offline until further notice.

The bill seeks to remove penalties for private adult marijuana possession, and establish a system in which the cultivation and sale of marijuana would be regulated and taxed in a manner similar to alcohol.

The reimbursement to property owners is the result of a unique farm-residential concept that combines a working coffee farm with a master-planned residential community in West Maui.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has approved the delivery of Liquefied Natural Gas to the state. Approvals are still required from the Hawai’i Public Utilities Commission.

Governor Abercrombie said public understanding and support are essential—without it he said, there is a possibility that repeal of the PLDC will ensue.

Volunteers will hike into the crater and say at the Paliku Cabin, where they will work on native plant protection, and the preservation of the park’s native habitat.

The County of Maui Department of Environmental Management today announced the availability of the January 2013 US EPA/Department of Health Consent Decree Wastewater Quarterly Report.

The Surfrider Foundation Maui Chapter joins the Community Work Day in hosting their first beach cleanup of the year this Saturday, January 19th at Ukumehame Beach Park. The event runs from 9 a.m. to noon.

The presentations are aimed at educating the community and teens about the dangers and devastating effects of crystal methamphetamine, or “ice.”

In an effort to strengthen economic development and job growth, and restore public services, House Speaker Rep. Souki said the state must proceed intelligently, and generate more state revenues.

A series of events will be held this week as groups reflect upon the January 17, 1893 overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy that took place 120 years ago.

At the center of the structure is an un-cut stone in the shape of a book that was strategically placed to represent the Kū’ē Petitions of 1897-1898.

In honor of Dr. King’s legacy, the groups are collecting unused slippers or sandals to be distributed to local service agencies to help economically disadvantaged individuals and families get back on their feet again.

The Native Hawaiian Scholarship ‘Aha includes a series of free presentations for high school students, parents, teachers, and current college students, who are interested in learning about financial aid.

Maui representatives will hold leaderships in several committees including the newly appointed Rep. Justin Howard Woodson who is expected to serve as vice chair of the Committee on Housing.