Posted on: Friday, January 3, 2003
Hawai'i briefs
Lingle taps ex-budget chief
Gov. Linda Lingle has appointed former state budget director Stanley Shiraki as acting deputy budget director.
Shiraki, who headed the Department of Budget and Finance last year under former Gov. Ben Cayetano, has more than 30 years' experience in state and city government finance and budgeting.
"I am very pleased that Stan has agreed to stay on to help our efforts to strengthen the state's fiscal condition," said incoming state budget director Georgina Kawamura. "Stan brings a wealth of knowledge about the Department of Budget and Finance as well as all other operating departments of the state. His continued contributions will be invaluable."
Shiraki is a graduate of the University of Hawai'i and Saint Louis School.
USS Arizona security relaxed
Security restrictions for personal items were reduced yesterday at the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin submarine park and the USS Missouri Memorial, the National Park Service said.
Beginning today, purses, handbags, fanny packs, backpacks, camera bags, diaper bags and luggage may be brought in by visitors as long as they do not exceed 12 inches in height, 12 inches in width or 12 inches in depth. A measurement box will be set up at the entrance.
All items will be subject to search.
Candidates' debate to air
A taped debate between two of the top Republican candidates for the 2nd Congressional District race covering rural O'ahu and the Neighbor Islands will air today on 'Olelo Channel 54 at 7:30 a.m. and Channel 53 at noon, 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. The debate will also air at 10 a.m. tomorrow on Channel 53.
During the debate, former state Rep. Bob McDermott and Kimo Kaloi discussed issues concerning Pacific Islanders. The program is moderated by Pua Aiu of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and sponsored by the Committee for the Advancement of Native Hawaiians.
A total of 44 candidates are running in a special election to be held tomorrow to fill the late Patsy Mink's seat.
Christmas trees to be recycled
Kaiser High School's Band & Orchestra will pick up Christmas trees from Niu to Kalama valleys for mulching for a donation of $5 as an annual fund-raiser to purchase new equipment and materials and to offset the cost of a spring trip to New York City.
Anyone interested in having a Christmas tree picked up should call 394-1218.
Kapolei ramp will be closed
The eastbound H-1 Freeway off-ramp to Kapolei (Exit 1B) will be closed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow and Sunday.
The Department of Transportation advises motorists to allow extra travel time and to take an alternate exit.
