Hawaii unusually rainy, state prepares presidential library bid, APEC conference, Honolulu considers distracted cross-walking ban, Abercrombie bats .500, Big Island radio stations on auction block, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

President Obama, White House photo

A team of University of Hawaii, state and private business leaders have begun a campaign to bring the Barack Obama Presidential Library to Kakaako, near the waters of Point Panic. KITV4.

Less than a week after breaking two ribs in a fall at his Virginia home, U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka was back at work Monday in Washington D.C. KHON2.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference will put Hawaii on an international stage in November, and officials here want to make sure Waikiki's seedier side doesn't hog the spotlight. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Legislature has rejected many of new Gov. Neil Abercrombie's proposals on taxes, security funding for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting and restoration of government services. Associated Press.

Of the 107 bills introduced by Gov. Neil Abercrombie's administration, 59 managed to pass the Legislature. That works out to a 55-percent success rate. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii State Legislature this year failed to pay $2.67 million in legal settlements to people brutalized by crime, mangled in car crashes and victimized by bureaucratic indifference. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii has received 126 percent more rain than normal this year … and national weather service forecasters are predicting more of the same until mid-summer. Hawaii Public Radio.

A flash-flood watch for Maui County has been extended through Tuesday afternoon, the National Weather Service said Monday. Maui News.

Heavy rainfall from the weekend and Monday closed one school and a bridge, made traffic conditions less than ideal and is believed to have broken a pipeline in Hanapepe. Garden Island.

The median price for previously owned single-family homes sold on Oahu rose for the first time this year with a slight gain in April, though the number of sales fell sharply. Star-Advertiser.

JAL: Golden Week visitors to Hawaii down 41.7%. Pacific Business News

Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi has sponsored a measure (Bill 43) that would make it illegal to use a cell phone or other electronic device while crossing the road. KHON2.

As rain wreaks havoc by opening up countless potholes on Oahu streets, the City and County of Honolulu is considering acquisition of a new "pothole patrol" vehicle that would improve productivity and result in longer lasting pothole patches. Hawaii News Now.

The City Council is poised to eliminate a decades-old subsidy that supports recycling by private companies and nonprofits at a cost of about $2 million a year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong is not happy with the outcome so far from the state and counties collective bargaining with government employee unions and he's proposing an alternative for county workers under council jurisdiction. West Hawaii Today.

Three radio stations, owned by Parrott Broadcasting, are up for auction this month. West Hawaii Today.

The Kauai County Council has denied a former state archaeologist a seat on the Kauai Historic Preservation Committee after emotional testimony that she has been insensitive to Hawaiian traditions and has not followed the law. Garden Island.

A Hilo-based tour operator could be fined at least $15,000 for allegedly performing unpermitted construction on conservation land located along Honolii Stream. Tribune-Herald.

Twelve years after Hawaii County officials passed an ordinance supporting a new North Kona fire station and several potential sites for the station later, Fire Department officials broke ground Monday morning. West Hawaii Today.

7-Eleven expects to add 46 Hawaii locations over five years, almost doubling the convenience store's presence across the state. KITV4.

A woman who wound up homeless in Hawaii will head back to Texas with her mother on Tuesday. Yughette Baker's free plane ticket was a gift from strangers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii storms wreak havoc, school days cut, Maui budget cuts mayor's big increases, Samoa leaving island time, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Unsettled weather with locally heavy rains and the threat for thunderstorms will continue over the islands through Tuesday. KHON2.

Flash flood warnings persisted into Sunday evening as heavy showers lingered over most of the Garden Isle, forcing the closure of the Hanalei Bridge and impacting Mother’s Day events. Garden Island.

Kainaliu businesses and nonprofits spent Saturday cleaning up inches of water and mud that filled their stores during heavy rains on Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Many people dream about retiring and enjoying their golden years, but a growing number of Hawaii seniors must work longer or come out of retirement just to make ends meet. Hawaii News Now.

Some relief from suffocating gas prices will likely arrive just in time for summer vacation. Expect a drop of nearly 50 cents as early as June, analysts say. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed into law yesterday Senate Bill 651, the Legislature’s comprehensive response to the foreclosure issue facing Hawaii families. Hawaii Independent.

For the last three years, the Hawai’i State Center for Nursing has been leading a project that uses the expertise of nurses to improve patient care. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Legislature did not pass a $2 million budget request for security expenses related to the upcoming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Conference, but officials of Gov. Abercrombie’s administration are refusing all comment about the issue. Hawaii Reporter.

With a new chairman at the Hawaiian Homes Commission, officials are taking a fresh look at ways to provide homes or homestead lots to the nearly 21,000 people on the residential waiting list. Star-Advertiser.

The amount of instructional time offered at elementary schools statewide varies widely —from 41⁄3 to six hours on average each day — but there appears to be no correlation between campuses with shorter school days and those meeting annual learning benchmarks, new state data show. Star-Advertiser.

More public schools throughout Hawaii are dropping traditional summer sessions from their schedule. Associated Press.

$1.2 million UHH telescope still not working. Tribune-Herald.

Maui County Council members reached an agreement late Friday night on a budget that would cut Mayor Alan Arakawa's spending request for 2012 by almost 11 percent. Maui News.

Today council members will be back in their seats at chambers in Nawiliwili to review Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr.’s supplemental budget, submitted Thursday. Garden Island.

A newly discovered mineral has been named krotite in honor of University of Hawaii at Manoa researcher Alexander N. Krot. Associated Press.

Traffic relief is on the way for people who drive through Makakilo. KHON2.

Veterans Affairs officials are independently evaluating radiation levels at their Hilo outpatient clinic. Tribune-Herald.

The state Legislature has bailed out a proposed Ka'u biofuel project after the Public Utilities Commission ruled Hawaii Electric Light Co. couldn't spread a rate hike over customers on other islands to help pay for it. West Hawaii Today.

Century-old seawalls along the Gold Coast on Oahu's southern shore are breaking down, and nobody wants to step up and fix them. Civil Beat.

Samoa plans to leap 24 hours into the future, erasing a day and putting a new kink in the Pacific's jagged international date line so that it can be on the same weekday as Australia, New Zealand and eastern Asia. Associated Press.

Earlier this week, Aqua Hotels & Resorts announced it would offer a special discount to guests who produce their birth certificates upon check-in at one of the chain’s hotels on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Molokai. Pacific Business News

Hawaii legislative session pau, U.S. Sen. Akaka breaks ribs in fall, Kau coffee among world's best, F-22 Raptors in stand down, Big Island bans barking dogs, county budgets moving, dengue fever done, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Legislature (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The state House and Senate adjourned yesterday after understated floor sessions to complete work on a handful of bills, but several lawmakers hinted they might have to return this summer for unfinished business. Star-Advertiser.

The 2011 legislative session wrapped up today, but lawmakers say a special session could be in their future. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers gave us civil unions, gender equity protection in employment, an appointed Board of Education, a mortgage foreclosure mediation process, a restructured Employees' Retirement System and recognition of Native Hawaiians. Civil Beat.

Legislators closed their 2011 session today by passing a legally questionable bill that extends pay cuts for themselves and other state executives. Hawaii Reporter.

The 26th State Legislature adjourned yesterday … and passed 250 of the more than 3-thousand bills introduced at the beginning of the session. Hawaii Public Radio.

One bill that came down to the last day focused on a five percent pay cut for judges, the governor and lawmakers themselves. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed a bill overhauling the state's foreclosure laws. Associated Press.

A proposal to end Medicare Part B reimbursements for retired Hawaii government employees isn't becoming law this year. Associated Press.

To borrow a term from the world of gaming, there was a lot of "action" over gambling bills at the state legislature this year. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka is recovering after breaking two ribs Monday night when he slipped and fell at his home in Alexandria, Va., his deputy communications director, Jesse Broder Van Dyke, said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Pahala resident Bull Kailiawa doesn't drink it. Still, he and his family know how to produce an award-winning coffee -- consistently. West Hawaii Today.

The US Air Force announced late Thursday that all of the nation's F-22 Raptors have been grounded. The stand-down was ordered Tuesday, but is just now public. KITV4.

Hawaii hotels’ average occupancy rate was 60.7 percent for the week ending April 30, down 2.1 percentage points compared to the same week in 2010. Pacific Business News

Honolulu's Department of Environmental Services says a $300 million project to expand the city's waste-to-energy plant is halfway finished. Associated Press.

Bolstered by an economic picture slightly less bleak than first expected, Mayor Billy Kenoi on Thursday released a revised budget that's $1.1 million more than his preliminary spending package released in March. West Hawaii Today.

The Kaua‘i County Council’s Committee of the Whole last week finished initial reviews on Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr.’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2012, including Capital Improvement Projects. Garden Island.

A bill intended to resolve noisy-dog complaints with minimal police assistance is heading to Mayor Billy Kenoi's desk. Tribune-Herald.

Dr. Neal Palafox, who was asked by the governor to give up the state health director nomination in January, has now stepped down as lead administrative director and chairman of the Medicine Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the John A. Burns School of Medicine. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed into law yesterday a bill that increases the fee on the net weight of imported freight. Hawaii Independent.

Dengue fever is done on Maui - and across Hawaii - at least for the moment, state health officials said Wednesday. Maui News.

Hawaii car owners facing hit, freight tax going up, Big Island adds bus fare, public workers to get less sweet retirement deal, Honolulu rail nears bond float, tsunami sirens to become zoning requirement, Kauai sewer rates to rise, Thai labor contractor admits trafficking, oil from algae, more news

Hawaii driving (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

When proposed increases of vehicle registration fees and weight taxes kick in next year, a Honda Civic owner will pay $46.76 more for the 2,672-pound car's annual sticker. Star-Advertiser.

Proposals to begin taxing online shopping won't become law in Hawaii this year. Associated Press.

Tax on the net weight of imported freight will increase 50 percent to fund 15 of 22 agriculture inspector positions the Legislature helped restore last year, said Rep. Clift Tsuji, Chair of the House Agriculture Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Several state agencies will be putting "help wanted" signs out for new employees, thanks to the new state budget approved Monday by House and Senate. KITV4.

New Hawaii government employees will work more years, contribute higher amounts toward their pensions and get paid less after retirement, according to sweeping proposed changes to the state's underfunded pension system. Associated Press.

A final vote on the bill affecting top executive, judicial and legislative branch salaries is set for Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly a third of the state's $2.9 billion in spending on construction projects over the next two years will go to harbors and highways. Civil Beat.

A state lawyer has laid out for the first time Gov. Neil Abercrombie's legal arguments for refusing to disclose the names of judicial candidates, saying the governor cannot be required to do so unless ordered to by a state judge. Star-Advertiser.

State energy office scrambling for funds. Pacific Business News.

From cockfights in remote and guarded locations to game rooms raided in the heart of urban Honolulu to sports betting through the Internet that hits a fever pitch during the football season, illegal gambling maintains a foothold in the 50th state. Hawaii News Now.

High fuel prices are affecting operations at The Bus, where officials expect to go nearly $1 million over their fuel budget this year. KITV4.

The Honolulu City Council is considering granting permission to float $2 billion in bonds to pay for initial rail contracts. Hawaii Independent.

The late disclosure of a gift the city received from a rail contractor drew criticism from City Council members in a Transportation Committee meeting Wednesday afternoon. It's the latest in a series of complaints from council members about a lack of transparency about the city's polarizing $5.3 billion rail project. Civil Beat.

The City and County of Honolulu purchased its first property last month to make way for the $5.3 billion rail system from East Kapolei to Ala Moana.. KHON2.

County Council members Wednesday approved Mayor Billy Kenoi's proposed bus fares. West Hawaii Today.

The county's current emergency services radio system must be replaced, Maui police officials said, in a project expected to cost more than $16 million only to begin the system's total overhaul. Maui News.

Kauai County sewer rates are to rise incrementally over the next four years starting in July. Associated Press.

The Windward Planning Commission on Wednesday gave unanimous approval to a measure requiring developers to provide emergency warning sirens in order to rezone property. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii bio-fuel company is to receive more than $5.5 million from the federal government to produce affordable animal feed from marine algae. Associated Press.

Cellana Inc. said it has begun producing oil from algae grown at its Kona facility and is on track to begin commercial production by 2014. Star-Advertiser.

Shane Germann stood before Hawaii’s U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway on Wednesday, May 4, remorsefully reciting details of crimes he committed in Hawaii between May 2003 and February 2006 as the on site manager and regional supervisor for the California-based labor recruiter, Global Horizons Manpower Inc. Hawaii Reporter.

When it comes to an easy to grow fruit in Hawaii, guava tops them all. Molokai Dispatch.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will begin construction of road and parking improvements at Waimea Canyon State Park lookout on Monday. Garden Island.

The Office of Mauna Kea Management is taking the first steps toward establishing administrative rules for the summit region of Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii budget hikes taxes, erodes reserves, 12% on food stamps, most expensive state to rent, Hilo VA workers exposed to radiation, Kauai seed companies nicked for grubbing violations, HPD OT for Obama hits $228,247, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Moana Surfrider (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Waikiki Hotel Plan Caught In Honolulu's Tangled Web. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Legislature is passing more than $600 million worth of tax increases on businesses, vehicles and personal income. Associated Press.

After months of number crunching and heated debate, lawmakers passed a two-year state budget on Tuesday. They also voted on more than 100 bills. Hawaii News Now.

The state House and Senate sent Gov. Neil Abercrombie yesterday a balanced budget and financial plan with some cushion to close a projected $1.3 billion deficit, but lawmakers have left little in reserve if the economy stagnates further. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers passed the state budget today … with a unanimous vote in the House and a 24-to-one vote in the Senate.Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers just balanced the budget. But a class action lawsuit could cost the state $70 million more that legislators didn't account for. Civil Beat.

The state Senate began voting on more than 100 new laws Tuesday morning, with a budget that received mixed reviews, even from its authors. KITV4.

Legislation that starts the process for native Hawaiians to form their own government is heading to Gov. Neil Abercrombie for his approval. Associated Press.

David Louie has been confirmed as Hawaii's attorney general, the last of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Cabinet appointees to be seated. Associated Press.

A bill that partially delays implementation of a law to lengthen Hawaii’s school day is headed to the governor’s desk after passing both chambers of the state Legislature yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department spent $228,247 on overtime pay during President Barack Obama’s most recent nearly two week visit to Oahu over the Christmas and New Years holiday. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii once again has the most expensive rental housing in the nation. KHON2.

More Hawaii residents use food stamps today than a year ago - almost 12 percent of the population - and even that is below the national average, federal statistics show. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Health said a successful flu immunization program in Hawaii's schools is in jeopardy. KITV4.

Workers in the Hilo veterans outpatient clinic may have been exposed to radiation over the last six years due to insufficient shielding of a radiation therapy machine located in the downstairs oncology clinic. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and the state Historic Preservation Division have announced the appointment of a new architecture branch chief. Associated Press.

A state prison inmate whose beating at Halawa Correctional Facility was captured by a prison surveillance camera is suing the state and the three prison guards who were fired for beating him. Star-Advertiser.

In response to community concerns, the county has issued multiple notices of violation to two South Shore seed companies for non-permitted grubbing activities in November and December. Garden Island.

Mayor Peter Carlisle today signed into law Bill 61 (2010) CD 2, which revises and updates the City’s North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan that covers lands north of Wahiawa, from Kaena Point to Kawela Bay. Hawaii Independent.

County Council members are looking at making deep cuts to the county budget proposed earlier this year by Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative announced Tuesday that it has received a petition that calls for a member vote on a decision made by the cooperative’s board of directors. Pacific Business News

The Hawaii County Housing Agency took a step toward eliminating cash payments as a way for developers to earn affordable housing credits. West Hawaii Today.

Molokai's own Capt. Clay Ching of Hallelujah Hou Fishing has been featured on the TV program, Hawaii Goes Fishing. Molokai Dispatch.

The United States Department of Agriculture is reminding farmers, ranchers and forest landowners that May 27 is the last day to submit project area proposals for the Biomass Crop Assistance Program. Garden Island.

While the eyes of Hawaii were on Hilo and the Merrie Monarch Festival, a group of 10 Hilo High School students were on the mainland making Hilo proud. Tribune-Herald.

Birthers don't back down, Obama buddy fined for soliciting prostitute, Hawaii mayor kills no-bid police contract with campaign manager, pay raise, APEC, foreclosures, hospitals still on lawmakers' plate, PUC denies First Wind extension, reward for info on Kauai goat-killer, more Hawaii news

Kawaiaha‘o Church (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Kawaiaha‘o Church resumed construction on a multipurpose building yesterday after making changes that include reducing the amount of ground excavation that could disturb unmarked graves. Star-Advertiser.

Work has resumed at Hawaii's oldest church and Christian cemetery for construction of a multi-purpose building. Associated Press.

Leaders of the so-called "birther" movement argued their case over President Barack Obama's U.S. citizenship before a federal appeals court Monday in Southern California, claiming the full birth certificate he released last week had been doctored. Associated Press.

President Obama awarded the nation's highest military decoration to a Maui solider who died on the battlefield while saving the men in his company. Hawaii News Now.

Obama honors Maui soldier killed in Korean war. Associated Press.

State lawmakers are scheduled to vote today on legislation to require hospitals in Hawaii to make public reports of health care-associated infections, a key measure in the industry's move toward improving health care. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii families in danger of losing their homes will be able to meet their lenders face-to-face in an attempt to avoid foreclosure, according to a broad overhaul of state foreclosure laws nearing approval. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, D-Hawaii, asked Hawaii lawmakers today to reconsider funding the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, which will attract leaders from around the world to Hawaii in November 2011. Hawaii Reporter.

Lawmakers Scramble To Avoid Pay Raise. A Bill To Extend 5% Pay Cut For State Officials Is One Of 120 Left Unfinished. KITV4.

A bold move to buy Oahu's only slaughterhouse may have failed. But lawmakers have found another way to help the struggling facility, opting to give it $750,000 in the state's capital improvement budget. Civil Beat.

The Public Utilities Commission has denied First Wind’s request for an eight-month extension to secure land and finalize details of an agreement on Molokai for a proposed 200 megawatt wind farm. Pacific Business News

Mayor Billy Kenoi late Monday put an end to a planned Police Department contract with his 2008 campaign manager after the no-bid project drew media scrutiny. West Hawaii Today.

Robert R. "Bobby" Titcomb, a close friend of President Barack Obama, accused of soliciting a prostitute in Kakaako, pleaded no contest and was fined $500 yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Maya Soetoro-Ng, President Barack Obama's sister, will speak at a town hall on education tomorrow at Kapiolani Community College. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Company crews restored power to roughly 60,000 customers affected by an outage caused by severe weather. Hawaii News Now.

There is a weather disturbance nearby that has triggered the thunderstorms, heavy rains and even hail on Kula, Maui. KHON2.

Longline fishermen are Hawaii's small boat commercial fishermen's No. 1 concern, followed by criticisms of the state's bottomfishing policies. West Hawaii Today.

A city bus driver who's admitted to reading a newspaper while driving a bus full of passengers won’t lose his job. KITV4.

Homeless people who've lived in vehicles and makeshift structures on Queen Street in Kakaako were cleared from the area Monday. KHON2.

In order to meet fire safety requirements, the state is on the move to build a new 12-inch water line and six-inch sewer line along Kaunakakai Place. Molokai Dispatch.

Sometime between dusk on Thursday and dawn on Friday, a pregnant goat from Kilauea’s Kunana Dairy was gutted and beheaded, her unborn kids dumped next to her insides, sources said Monday. Garden Island.

Hawaii reacts to killing of Osama bin Laden, military boosts alert status, state spending up despite no money, counties get smaller share of hotel tax, university salaries lag, Merrie Monarch pau, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hanama Bay (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A free-diver found a military canister bobbing in the waters off Hanauma Bay yesterday morning, forcing hundreds of people to abandon the marine preserve. Star-Advertiser.

In timing that suggests a link with the announcement of Osama bin Laden's death, U.S. military installations in the Pacific raised their security level from Alpha on Sunday, the lowest level, to Bravo. Star-Advertiser.

The news of the death of the terrorist leader Osama bin Ladin stirred strong emotions on and off base. Security is understandably tight at Kaneohe Marine Base Hawaii. KITV4.

Hawaii officials react to news of Bin Laden's death. KHON2.

President Obama's stunning announcement Sunday about the death of 9-11 mastermind Osama bin Laden, after a decade-long manhunt, drew swift reaction from Hawaii residents. Hawaii News Now.

Even though Hawaii's government is short on cash, it's budgeted spending is still rising. Associated Press.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for about $600 million in new tax revenue to help pay for the state’s new two-year budget. Civil Beat.

Contractors Fear Tax Changes Will Hurt Business. KITV4.

A number of controversial measures died on Friday evening at the Hawaii State Legislature because lawmakers were unable to get their proposals passed out of conference committee before the 6 p.m. deadline. Hawaii Reporter.

Troubled over the long-term viability of the Employees' Retirement System, state lawmakers hope to make significant structural changes to reduce benefit costs for new public workers and stabilize the system over the next generation. Star-Advertiser.

Salaries for University of Hawaii and Chaminade University professors are well below those of many of their colleagues elsewhere in the country, a new survey shows. Associated Press.

County looks ‘OK’ despite cap on TAT. Maui News.

The state Legislature's decision to change how it distributes key state revenues will cost Hawaii County an estimated $1.37 million in the coming budget year, an aide to Mayor Billy Kenoi said Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Auditor surprised by county’s skyrocketing electric bill in 2010. Garden Island.

As Pattern Energy begins taking action on Molokai to develop a wind farm, two groups are denouncing the Big Wind project, and calling for the neighbor island bidding process to start from scratch. Molokai News.

Hawaii's major hospitals are collaborating to launch the first statewide nurse residency program this summer in an effort to keep more registered nurses in the profession. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers agree that with the help of some sort of financing program, Hawaii residents would be able to easily purchase solar power and energy-saving appliances with no upfront cost. Hawaii Independent.

Rosen Auctions will auction off forfeited property for the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Saturday, April 30, at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center’s Pikake Room. Pacific Business News

The county Board of Ethics has dismissed additional complaints against Maui County Council Member Mike White over his ties with the visitor industry, White's office announced Friday. Maui News.

Unable to afford its planned Keaau shopping center and unable to fill a bigger one, Puna's biggest private landowner is eying other locations while pursuing smaller developments. Tribune-Herald.

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival ended Saturday night with musical tributes to the beauty of the islands, the tenderness of love in full bloom and homages aplenty to the last royals of Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers agree on budget, Kauai burial site protestors arrested, Lanai fights wind farm, Maui gas hits $6, Four Seasons Resort reopens after tsunami damage, hula proves popular, more Hawaii news

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai will reopen its doors Saturday to the delight of new and loyal patrons who have enjoyed its hospitality and luxury for 15 years. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii legislators agreed on a final version of the state's $11 billion annual budget Thursday before determining exactly how to pay for it. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers agreed on an operating budget Thursday evening that calls for spending an additional $800 million a year for each of the next two years. Civil Beat.

Pushing up against a midnight deadline, state lawmakers are expected to choose today the tax and revenue-generating options they need to balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

In an unusually early end to an unusually challenging budget process, state lawmakers began laying out the details of the two-year budget that they said eliminated a $1.3 billion potential deficit. KITV4.

The conference committee made up of both House Representatives and Senators approved the state budget by a vote of 28-0 Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii legislators are planning a state budget that funds an end to public employee furloughs while reducing the cost of running the government. KHON2.

Late this afternoon, Hawaii’s House and Senate money committees passed a budget that grows the size of government, restores many cuts lawmakers made earlier this session to Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s budget proposal and includes funding for new state positions. Hawaii Reporter.

A requirement for more class time in Hawaii public schools will be phased in over the next few years, according to compromise legislation reached Thursday that delays parts of a law designed to increase student instruction. Associated Press.

In a last-ditch effort, Sen. Malama Solomon revives casino proposal. Civil Beat.

Taxing pensions is a contentious issue at the legislature this session as lawmakers look at all potential sources of revenue to balance the budget. Hawaii Public Radio.

A proposal to impose "instant runoff" voting in county elections has been tabled at the state Legislature this year. Star-Advertiser.

The state Legislature has given final approval to a two-year extension of a law protecting journalists from having to reveal anonymous sources and private notes. Star-Advertiser.

Ask any council member or county finance officer where Kaua‘i County’s budget stands today and the story is the same: “We’re in a sound financial position,” thanks to years of conservative tax-and-spend policies. Garden Island.

Law enforcement officers arrested two protesters Thursday morning for obstructing a contractor hired by the state government to dig a leach field in Kaumuali‘i Park, next to Wailua River, in an area were human skeletons and old Hawaiian artifacts were reportedly unearthed. Garden Island.

Friends of Lāna‘i petitioned Hawaii’s Public Utilities Commission to reopen the competitive bidding process for the multi-island “Big Wind” project yesterday. Hawaii Independent.

Hula links Hawaii with dancers from hard-hit Japan. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii visitor arrivals in March came in 4.2 percent higher than last year, and spending rose 11.8 percent, despite a plunge in Japan arrivals after the earthquake, tsunami and radiation leaks that began March 11. Hawaii News Now.

The price for a gallon of regular gas broke the $6 mark this week in remote Hana, Maui, notching a record that is consistently being topped. Star-Advertiser.

The rising price of gasoline has affected what shoppers pay for food and consumer items, but one business not allowed to pass increases along to the consumer is taxicabs. Tribune-Herald.

In a case of getting what you pay for, Hele-On bus riders may be charged fares for the first time in years and also receive improved service. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii disaster planners continue to learn from the March 11 tsunami event the caused an estimated $30.6 million in damage, most of it at boat harbors on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island. KHON2.

Six Hawaii schools travel to St. Louis for FIRST Championships. KHON2.

Three public advocacy groups have asked the state Reapportionment Commission to rescind its decision to require only three days' public notice for its meetings. Star-Advertiser.

The state Transportation Department’s Halawa Stream Bridge project has run into numerous problems and delays, causing a five-and-a-half-year delay and millions of dollars in cost overruns. KITV4.

The Maui Planning Commission unanimously endorsed an interim state Department of Transportation plan Tuesday to protect Honoapiilani Highway where the ocean continues to threaten the roadway on the Lahaina side of the pali on a pebble beach in Olowalu. Maui News.

It was Maui’s Tori Hulali Canha of Halau Ke‘alaokamaile who took the Miss Aloha Hula title at Merrie Monarch last night by a slim margin of three points. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of people packed into Hilo's old tennis stadium to witness a performance the likes of which has not been seen for more than a hundred years. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii hopes Obama birther controversy behind it, milk radiation levels drop, Legislature in budget stalemate, state Supreme Court rejects Native Hawaiian tax issue, Maui to sell bus signs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea lehua (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

For kumu hula Maelia Loebenstein Carter, a certain lehua tree at the edge of Kilauea Caldera holds symbolic meaning. Star-Advertiser.

Time is running out in the Hawaii legislative session and lawmakers have reached a stalemate over the budget. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers are racing to craft a State Budget that provides essential government services but closes a 1.3 billion dollar spending gap over the next two years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii lawmakers are nearing decisions on raising a variety taxes and cutting government programs, but they haven't agreed on how to do so yet. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Supreme Court yesterday rejected a taxpayer lawsuit by non-Native Hawaiians seeking the same tax exemptions given to Native Hawaiian lessees under the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time since the nuclear disaster in Japan, extremely miniscule amounts of radioactive strontium has been found in milk samples taken from the Big Island. KHON2.

The state Health Department confirmed that strontium-89 from Japan's nuclear release was detected in Big Island dairy milk after a nationwide high level of cesium also was found in the same April 4 testing. Star-Advertiser.

Until this week, Hawaii officials said they wouldn't release original birth records for anyone, under any circumstances. Even if it was President Barack Obama. Associated Press.

Short-handed staff at the offices of the governor, attorney general and Health Department hope they can finally move on from spending untold hours devoted to the issue of President Barack Obama's place of birth after he released copies of his "long form" birth certificate yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

President Obama’s birth certificate delivers news to doctor’s family. Hawaii News Now.

Ivalee Sinclair always knew her late husband lived an accomplished life, but a call from her daughter early Wednesday morning exceeded her imagination. KITV4.

Dr. David Sinclair's six children grew up accustomed to him often leaving home at all hours and holidays to deliver babies. Associated Press.

According to the state, the president sent a letter April 22 requesting two certified copies of the original certificate of live birth. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said it's an insult for anyone to continue to question if President Barrack Obama was born in Hawaii after the state issued his original Certificate of Live Birth Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Health Department announced that it complied with a request by President Barack Obama for certified copies of his original Certificate of Live Birth, which is sometimes referred to in the media as a “long form” birth certificate. Hawaii Independent.

Real Estate Mogul Donald Trump received international publicity recently when he dispatched an investigative team to Hawaii to find President Barack Obama’s long form certificate of live birth. Hawaii Reporter.

State Sen. Josh Green, an emergency room physician from Kona, said he has seen too much abuse of the medical marijuana law, especially by young people who claimed severe, chronic pain in order to get a doctor to certify them as a marijuana patient. KITV4.

The county could sell advertising space on the Maui Bus, under a proposal before the Maui County Council. Maui News.

Maui County Council members are balking at a proposal that could significantly increase some Department of Planning permit fees. Maui News.

People whose property was damaged in the March 11 tsunami aren't required to obtain permits before starting repairs. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu’s jobless rate improved to 5.1 percent in March, down from the 5.3 percent in February and 5.6 percent in March 2010, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary data that has not been seasonally adjusted. Pacific Business News

State Librarian Richard Burns recently sent a press release stating that libraries have seen “impressive increases” in circulation as e-books and e-readers have surged in popularity. Garden Island.

The friendly Hawaiian monk seal known as KP2, later named Ho`ailona, that frequented Molokai waters and made many friends is turning three years old this May. Molokai Dispatch.

Obama Hawaii birth certificate released, human trafficking bill advances, Ed Board gets to work, pilot medical marijuana bill advances, Hawaii County going green, more island news

Obama Hawaii Birth Certificate

The White House released the long form of President Barack Obama’s birth certificate Wednesday in response to questions about whether he was really born in the U.S. Associated Press.

He’s No ‘Birther’ but Hawaii Senator Tackles Issues Surrounding Obama’s Birth Certificate. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are killing a proposal that would have allowed residents to pay off upfront costs of solar panels and other energy-saving appliances through their power bills. Associated Press.

Hawaii may well be on its way to finally putting a human trafficking statute on the books. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers say they're close to reaching a compromise on implementing a law that lengthens the school day. Star-Advertiser.

The new appointed Board of Education held its first public meeting on Tuesday. KHON2.

After taking a moment to recognize their elected predecessors, the appointed Board of Education tackled its first meeting yesterday, approving new bylaws and committees while pledging to find and fix problems in Hawaii’s public education system. Star-Advertiser.

Public hospital nurses in Hawaii said they rejected a proposal for 5 percent pay cuts because they are already woefully underpaid compared to the private sector. KITV4.

The attorney general wants you to do a little spring cleaning in your medicine cabinet. Hawaii News Now.

A two-year pilot program to establish a medical marijuana distribution center aims to treat patients and crack down on abuses that have led to more than 500 people under age 21 receiving marijuana prescriptions in Hawaii County alone, a state senator said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County officials are hoping to lead by example by establishing a baseline for carbon emissions and fossil fuel use, then working to reduce both figures, the county's Green Team coordinator says. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Small Business Administration Tuesday opened a temporary SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center on Oahu to assist residents and businesses affected by the March 11 tsunami. Pacific Business News

Fuel price increases are hitting home for the county Department of Water Supply, which on Tuesday recommended a 9 percent hike to the power cost surcharge the utility charges on top of a previously planned 6.8 percent general water rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Merrie Monarch Festival Schedule Of Events. Tribune-Herald.

A wonderful gift arrived at Kilohana School last month – a computer for every fourth through sixth grade student to use in the classroom. Molokai Dispatch.

Ground will be broken at 10 a.m. today for a Courtyard by Marriott hotel near Kahului Airport. Maui News.

Kathy Miyake of Central Pacific Bank was installed to a two-year term as president of the Kaua‘i United Way before more than 100 people who attended the 68th Annual Meeting and Mahalo Celebration recently at Duke’s Canoe Club at Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

Hawaii proposed online tax could hurt tech business, Maui showing signs of recovery, Hawaii County property rolls lower, governor signs bills, Merrie Monarch begins, more news

Hawaii hula (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival kicked off in grand fashion Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

NOAA crews have returned from a trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to survey damage from last month's tsunami. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are looking for creative ways to tax online shopping, either by requiring Internet sellers to hand over customer information to the government, or by enrolling in a multistate program in which websites voluntarily collect taxes. Associated Press.

Governor Abercrombie signed eight more bills that were passed out of the 2011 legislature into law on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Six of seven bargaining units of the state's largest public-sector labor union yesterday ratified a new two-year contract that will mean a 5 percent pay cut, an increase in their health care premium payments and an increase in time off. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Education Committee rejected two of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nominees for the University of Hawaii Board of Regents yesterday, making it unlikely that the full Senate will confirm them. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday announced a plan to provide more help to the homeless in Hawaii. KITV4.

With Maui County's economy showing signs of recovery, the administration of Mayor Alan Arakawa wants to provide more money to nonprofit agencies because they "provide a service to the community, often its neediest," said Sandy Baz, the administration's budget director. Maui News.

Hawaii County real property valuations came in about 4 percent less than last year, good news for County Council members fearing losses as high as 10 percent. West Hawaii Today.

A Civil Beat investigation of public financial disclosures shows the real estate values listed by 14 Hawaii lawmakers differed from public assessments. Civil Beat.

City & County of Honolulu Details Rail Bond Financing. Hawaii Reporter.

If you were waiting for crunch time to see how all the powerful talk at the Hawaii State Legislature would translate into the actual definition of the people’s business in 2011, and the balanced budget to pay for it, you’re in luck. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County will honor permits already issued for DW Aina Lea's the Villages at Aina Lea, Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Northwynd Resort Properties Ltd., the owner of Makaha Resort & Golf Club, has sold the resort’s 18-hole golf course to Hawaiian Golf Properties LLC. Pacific Business News

The county Redistricting Commission had barely gotten itself organized Monday before some members started questioning a new county code setting strict rules for its operation. West Hawaii Today.

Residents of the Garden Island celebrated Earth Day this past Friday by working on projects, such as cleaning up beaches and planting trees around the island. Garden Island.

Researchers on a recent trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands helped rescue a Hawaiian monk seal found tangled in marine debris. Associated Press.

On one of the holiest days of the year for Christians, Hilo's faithful flocked to see a "corpse" -- flower that is. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Supreme Court takes up native squatting rights, Real ID real expensive for counties, Maui group sues over Main Street name, budget struggles continue, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his point man on homeless issues are scheduled to announce a new initiative to help people without shelter. Associated Press.

It's decision time at the Hawaii Capitol, where lawmakers enter their final days scrounging for money to keep the state running with a full slate of proposed tax increases and spending cuts.  Associated Press.

The deadline is looming at the State Capitol, House and Senate conference committees must agree on how to close a $1.3 billion budget gap. KHON2.

University of Hawaii students are bracing for another tuition hike as state lawmakers struggle to close a major budget shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Legislature's endgame is a mystery even to those who work in the state Capitol. Civil Beat.

An increase in Hawaii's general excise tax is dead for now, but Rep. George Fontaine worries that it could make a comeback. Associated Press.

The Department of Taxation reported that tax collections in Hawaii were coming in below expectations, down by 5.5 percent through the first nine months of this fiscal year. KITV4.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has agreed to hear a case in which a Native Hawaiian argues he has a constitutional right to take up residence as a caretaker of a remote state park on Kauai. Civil Beat.

An unfunded federal mandate that the state passed down to the four counties will likely increase expenses for Kaua‘i in the near future, officials said last week. Garden Island.

Lost in the renewed scrutiny into President Barack Obama's birth records is the fact that anyone can walk into a Hawaii vital records office, wait in line behind couples getting marriage licenses and open a baby-blue government binder containing basic information about his birth. Associated Press.

The Wailuku Main Street Association is suing the National Trust for Historic Preservation over its right to use the Main Street name. Maui News.

The State Land Use Commission has denied Tropic Land LLC’s petition to allow a light industrial park’s construction on Lualualei valley farmland. Hawaii Independent.

Relocation of utility lines is expected to begin today as the city moves forward with work on its $5.3 billion rail transit system. Star-Advertiser.

The odor of rotting flesh emanating from a single "corpse flower" drew hundreds of new visitors yesterday to Hilo's Pana­‘ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens on a typically quiet Easter Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Mitsubishi has chosen Hawaii to be the first state in the nation to get the company's new electric car. KHON2.

Continental Airlines has begun hiring airport workers as it prepares to launch its direct mainland-to-Hilo service this summer. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii state health officials have sent samples of Big Island groundwater for testing after the release of radiation from Japanese nuclear power plants last month. Associated Press.

The Queen Liliuokalani Trust is getting quite a tax break on a $9.9 million commercial parcel it owns at a prime Kona crossroads. West Hawaii Today.

“Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono – The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.” This, the state motto of Hawaii, is one of the few if not only state mottos that alludes to man’s integral relationship to the natural world. Molokai Dispatch.