Get ready now to debate about same-sex marriage

For the few people who are still holding their breath in hopes of a special session to tackle the same-sex marriage issue: It’s time to exhale.

The leadership of the state Senate and House have counted heads and fallen short of the two-thirds vote needed to call the session. The governor could summon one himself, but if he’s not assured of the vote, that’s unlikely. The better investment of time for either side in the debate would be to get their troops in fighting form for the next regular session, since it’s a safe bet there will be a fight over this.

Miss Earth beauties will make us green with envy

Miss Universe, Miss World — and now, in case you didn’t already know it, there is a Miss Earth as well. The motto of the Manila-headquartered program, which started in 2001, is "Beauties for a Cause," so there’s no hiding that this is a beauty pageant. It’s just one in which the winner is expected to speak knowledgeably about the environment and dedicate her reign to promoting ecological issues and events.

The local and national pageant are both set for Sept. 1 at the Ala Moana Hotel. The international pageant is later; the current title-holder is Czech. Runners-up are named Miss Air, Miss Water and Miss Fire.

The crown? It contains gemstones from the participating countries. Perhaps Hawaii will get a bit of olivine added. Or maybe a Niihau shell?