Hawaii pitches Obama library, Honolulu mulls 300-sq-ft micro-apartments, whale freed from fishing line, Hawaiians sue over Pohakuloa munitions, Omidyar dairy spurs Kauai community opposition, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Allied Works Architecture conceptual design of Obama presidential library

Hawaii's formal pitch to win the Barack Obama presidential library was submitted Thursday in a bid that projects between $25 million and $40 million in tax revenue and more than $2 billion in economic activity over its first 10 years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hopes it has an offer Honolulu-born President Barack Obama won't be able to turn down. It hopes to build him a presidential library on the ocean, with a dramatic view of his hometown's famed Diamond Head volcanic crater. The state's abundant sunshine would generate solar power and support vegetable gardens on site. Associated Press.

On Thursday, Hawaii officials submitted a written proposal to host the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Honolulu. The effort was coordinated by the University of Hawaii with the full backing of the State of Hawaii, the City and Council of Honolulu and numerous community partners, including the nonprofit group, Hawaii Presidential Center. KHON2.

A Journey Into the Basement With Hawaii Tech Chief Keone Kali. The chief information officer talks about the precarious state of information locked in outdated equipment in the bowels of downtown Honolulu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii wildlife officials freed a young humpback whale from fishing line that was wrapped around its tail. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary said Thursday the line had cut deep wounds into the 30-foot whale. The weakened animal also had parasites and shark bites. Associated Press.

The Land Use Research Foundation convened its 2014 Housing Summit today. The goal is to develop policies and strategies to build more affordable rental and for sale units throughout the state. Star-Advertiser.

Allowing Aloha United Way to solicit donations from state workers gives the charity an unfair advantage over other nonprofits and violates the state ethics code, Hawaii's state Ethics Commission has concluded. Associated Press.

If Ben Jay had known the depth of the task confronting him at the University of Hawaii, he said Thursday, he might not have taken the job as its athletic director. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Micro units, or small efficiency apartments, are seen as one part of a solution to Hawaii's housing shortage, and the state agency regulating development in Kakaako is looking to build more of them. Star-Advertiser.

Park Lane Ala Moana, the $300 million luxury condominium project being built on what was once a parking area at Ala Moana Center by a trio of Honolulu firms — Kobayashi Group, The MacNaughton Group, BlackSand Capital — and landowner General Growth Properties Inc., plans to price the units between at least $1 million and at least $20 million. Pacific Business News.

The City Council postpones a vote on Bill 62, which would ban sitting and lying on sidewalks and planters in five downtown Honolulu and Chinatown malls. Civil Beat.

Federal, state and city officials on a task force asked to evaluate the effects of the January fuel leak at the Navy's Red Hill Fuel Storage Facility recommended Thursday that the giant tanks be double-lined to prevent groundwater contamination. But the Navy continues to have serious objections to that approach. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council has agreed to pay $250,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by a man police pulled out of a car window and kicked in the torso, and $165,000 to the mother of a boy who cut his leg on an irrigation valve at a Liliha park. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Two Native Hawaiians are suing the Department of Land and Natural Resources, saying the state has breached its duty to protect ceded lands at the Pohakuloa Training Area. West Hawaii Today.

University of Hawaii President David Lassner and John Morton, vice president for community colleges, sketched their vision for the new Hawaii Community College — Palamanui at a forum Thursday evening in Kealakehe. The forum was attended by about 170 people. West Hawaii Today.

Lava flow T-shirts a hit for Pahoa merchant. Tribune-Herald.

The June 27 lava flow was continuing to follow a path of steepest descent Thursday morning that could take it through Pahoa Marketplace. Hawaii County Civil Defense said the flow front was 1.9 miles from the intersection of Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road after advancing 340 yards within 24 hours. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Former Maui County mayoral candidate Beau Hawkes, who was Tasered as he ran from a police officer in a viral video, was found guilty as charged Wednesday for disregarding the officer's orders and driving away from a traffic stop. Maui News.

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is seeking a special management area permit and a shoreline setback variance as part of an estimated $55 million in master plan improvements that call for, among other things, a new four-level parking garage and more ballroom and spa space, according to a final environmental assessment. - Maui News.

AAA Hawaiʻi Weekend Gas Watch metro area report for Wailuku showed the price of a gallon of regular gas at $4.05 today, down six cents from last week, 20 cents from last month, 12 cents from last year, and down 93 cents from the high of $4.98 reported on May 9, 2011. Maui Now.

On Tuesday, Dec. 9, Ka‘ala Buenconsejo became the new County of Maui Parks Department Director, according to an inter-office email sent out by the department’s interim director. Maui Time.


Kauai

A set of annual audit reports found that Kauai County officials are still struggling to address longstanding financial and record-keeping deficiencies that were raised as red flags over the past several years. Garden Island.

The lush Mahaulepu Valley on Kauai's South Shore is the setting of a growing environmental battle pitting local residents against Hawaii's richest man. About 200 people packed the Koloa Neighborhood Center Thursday night to voice their concerns about billionaire eBay founder Pierre Omidyar's plans to build a high-tech dairy there. Hawaii News Now.

A promising outlook for attracting visitors to Hawaii was evoked by a host of speakers at the Kauai Visitors Bureau annual luncheon Thursday. Garden Island.

Real property owners that believe their properties were given the wrong tax classifications for the 2014 tax year can apply for reclassification if the application is received no later than Dec. 31. Garden Island.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs inducts new trustees, Kauhou aquifer plan delayed, lava turns toward shopping center, Pearl Harbor workers killed, youth e-cig use climbs, coffee beetle comes to Oahu, oceans clogged with plastic, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Office of Hawaiian Affairs investiture, photo courtesy HA

Though Native Hawaiians have made progress in education, health, economic self-sufficiency and other areas, there remains work to be done on nation building and overall community improvement, Kama­na‘o­pono Crabbe, chief executive officer of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, said Wednesday in his State of OHA address. Star-Advertiser.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees will be “servant leaders at our people’s table,” said newly elected chairman Robert Lindsey at an investiture of board members Wednesday in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

A new study estimates about 269,000 tons of plastic — enough to fill more than 38,500 garbage trucks — is floating in the world’s oceans. Associated Press.

Allowing Aloha United Way to solicit donations from state workers gives the private charity an "unfair advantage" over other nonprofits and is inconsistent with the fair treatment provision of the state ethics code, the staff at the state Ethics Commission has concluded. Star-Advertiser.

Reform measures and high returns on investments in recent years have helped Hawaii start to crawl out of its $20 billion hole in retirement benefits promised to thousands of public workers. But the state still has a long way to go — 26 years to be exact, based on the latest actuarial report for the Hawaii Employees’ Retirement System. State senators are set to learn more about the financial status and valuation of the public pension system Thursday morning during a legislative briefing at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

State health officials and a community organization are alerting the public to what they call an alarming increase in the use of electronic cigarettes among Hawaii's youth. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has won a $14.8 million multiyear federal grant to launch public preschool programs at charter schools statewide. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu
Two civilian contract workers were killed and two others injured Wednesday while working on a barge at Pearl Harbor's Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility off Waipio Peninsula. Star-Advertiser.

Two men were killed when a 10,000-pound buoy fell from a crane onto contractors in Pearl Harbor. Honolulu Fire Department spokesman Capt. David Jenkins says the men were on a barge that was servicing the Navy's fleet of inactive ships at the time of Wednesday's incident. Associated Press.

The City Council postpones a vote on Bill 62, which would ban sitting and lying on sidewalks and planters in five downtown Honolulu and Chinatown malls. Civil Beat.

The Queen's Medical Center, Hawaii's largest private hospital, has signed an agreement with Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning LLC to use the long-planned $250 million project that will cool Downtown Honolulu office buildings and condominium towers with cold water from the ocean. Pacific Business News.

The invasive coffee pest with which Hawaii Island growers have struggled for the last four years now has been found elsewhere in the state. The state Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday the coffee berry borer was discovered last week on farms owned by Dole Foods in Waialua, Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Wright Homes may be the last place you'd expect to see a hotel, but developers are floating the idea to help pay for the aging housing project's redevelopment. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Hawaii County can stay in the driver’s seat of the Keauhou aquifer — but the reprieve is only temporary and comes with conditions. After nine hours of testimony in Kailua-Kona on Wednesday, the state Commission on Water Resource Management delayed making a decision on whether to put the aquifer under its control. West Hawaii Today.

The June 27 lava flow appears to have chosen which path it will follow. And it’s not good news for Pahoa’s main shopping center. Tribune-Herald.

The Volcano transfer station will be expanded and undergo structural repairs as part of a $1.06 million project that broke ground Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Makila Land Co. is seeking to develop 11 agricultural lots on 214 acres north of 186 acres of oceanfront at Launiupoko that the landowner sold to Maui County for $13 million earlier this year. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission unanimously approved Tuesday a special management area permit for the Cove Beach Village project, a 32-unit apartment complex located on an acre along Kanani Road in Kihei. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kauai County Council will decide next week whether they want to override a vetoed law that would use lease rents, rather than fair market values, to calculate the real property taxes of biotech research land users. The seven-member board, by a 5-0 vote, decided to revive the killed law during their meeting Wednesday, paving the way for a final vote on it to take place during their Wednesday meeting. Garden Island.

Developers aren't saying why a planned Lihue shopping center is being delayed. Associated Press.

Investigating the death of an endangered species — in this case, a Hawaiian monk seal pup — is exactly what you might expect in any homicide investigation. Garden Island.

The Federal District Court in Hawai’i struck down Kaua’i and Hawai’i County ordinances that sought to restrict cultivation of genetically engineered crops. Both cases are being appealed. In his final report on the Maui GMO debate, Hawaii Public Radio’s Wayne Yoshioka asked residents what actions can be taken beyond the Courts.

Molokai

Four fishermen from Molokai have been indicted for allegedly boarding another fishing vessel and robbing and harassing the people on board. The four men will be arraigned in Maui Circuit Court later this month, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources said Wednesday. Associated Press.

Four Molokaʻi men were arrested and charged for their alleged involvement in a confrontation between two groups of fishermen in Molokaʻi waters earlier this year. Maui Now.

Hawaii is healthiest state, health exchange faces $2.5M shortfall, lobbyist laws lacking, Honolulu police chief to be questioned after mistrial, waste-to-energy incinerator delayed, Molokai fishermen attack Oahu boat, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii kupuna hula © 2014 All Hawaii News

Hawaii is the healthiest state in the country, claiming the top spot for two years straight in America's Health Rankings, released annually by United Health Foundation. Star-Advertiser.

In a place where sunshine and the outdoor lifestyle have long been treasured, it’s no surprise that Hawaii once again comes out on top of the rankings for the healthiest state. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Health Connector's top executive confirmed that the state's online health insurance exchange currently faces a $2.5 million budget shortfall during the fiscal year that ends in June 2015. Pacific Business News.

CGI Group Inc., the embattled information technology vendor for the Hawaii Health Connector, will continue its contract with the state's health insurance exchange for at least another year. Star-Advertiser.

NextEra: Efficiency, Expertise and a Penchant for Getting What it Want. The company looking to buy Hawaii's electric utilities will likely seek to own and operate sustainable energy projects, experts say. But that will require the approval of state regulators. Civil Beat.

Robert K. Lindsey Jr. of Hawaii island was unanimously selected chairman of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs Board of Trustees on Tuesday, and he didn't waste any time responding to criticism leveled at the agency by a former member. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii athletic director Ben Jay resigned Tuesday after a two-year tenure marked by failed efforts to stop the university’s athletic department from losing money. Associated Press.

Aniruddha Sherbow, 44, was sentenced Monday to 33 months in federal prison after threatening to “beat” and “decapitate” U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii.Hawaii Reporter.

Opinion: The Problem With Lobbyists — and Their Regulators. The state's lobbyist law still falls short of providing accountability and transparency. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Embattled Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha should face tough questions next week from the people who control the fate of his job. If he doesn’t, state lawmakers are poised to rewrite the rules to ensure there’s more accountability for him and his department. Civil Beat.

Officials with the Honolulu Marathon say security will again be increased for the race that has already attracted nearly 30,000 entrants. Associated Press.

Hawaii

A planned waste-to-energy incinerator for Hawaii County is almost five months behind schedule, after the three finalists for the project asked for more time to complete their proposals. West Hawaii Today.

An intersection that has been a thorn in the side for South Kona drivers is showing signs of the transformation to come. West Hawaii Today.

‘It’s been a long time coming’; Hilo High’s new gym open for competition Tribune-Herald.

The June 27 lava flow advanced another 225 yards as of Tuesday morning but it wasn’t clear yet which path of steepest descent it might favor. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Makila Land Co. is seeking to develop 11 agricultural lots on 214 acres north of 186 acres of oceanfront at Launiupoko that the landowner sold to Maui County for $13 million earlier this year. Maui News.

The Maui Planning Commission unanimously approved Tuesday a special management area permit for the Cove Beach Village project, a 32-unit apartment complex located on an acre along Kanani Road in Kihei. Maui News.

The Federal District Court in Hawai’i will decide if the Maui County ballot initiative on Genetically Engineered Crops is legal. In his ongoing series, Hawaii Public Radio’s Wayne Yoshioka asked Maui residents on both sides what actions can be taken to resolve this issue.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. has nominated two-year Kauai resident Allan Parachini for the county Charter Review Commission. Garden Island.

A Hanalei man fined by the county for running a non-permitted bed and breakfast pleaded no contest to the criminal charges Tuesday in 5th Circuit Court. Ed Ben-Dor, 63, received a second fine for illegally operating a single family transient vacation rental outside of a visitor destination area. Garden Island.

Kauai residents and visitors may have to wait a little longer before they can see the Hokulei Village shopping center in Lihue come to fruition. Garden Island.

Molokai

A growing dispute between Oahu and Molokai fishermen leads to arrests and indictments. Four Molokai men are out on bail Tuesday night accused of boarding a Honolulu boat and attacking everyone on board. Hawaii News Now.

Friends of a Molokai fisherman are scrapping plans for a memorial service now that he was rescued after being missing at sea for nearly two weeks. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii AD quits, Tulsi Gabbard stalker sentenced, Honolulu food trucks compete for space, Maui GMO law could be decided this week, Kauai law to restrict coastline construction, students tour lava flow, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Photo courtesy Hawaii Wildlife Fund

The Hawaii Wildlife Fund ended its 2014 marine debris season Friday by loading 4.5 tons of net and line, most of which was collected from the southeast Ka’u coast, into a container for shipment to Oahu. The 40-foot trailer was provided by Matson Navigation’s Ka Ipu Aina program. The container will be shipped to Honolulu, where Schnitzer Steel will chop it into pieces and then be burned at the Covanta H-Power plant. West Hawaii Today.

Strong investment returns and steps taken over the past four years by the pension plan's trustees, former Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the state Legislature, helped increase the fund so as of June 30 it was at 61.4 percent of where it needs to be to pay all the pensions promised, according to an independent actuarial report by Dallas-based Gabriel Roeder Smith & Co. That's up from 60 percent as of June 2013 and 59.2 percent as of June 2012. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge is dismissing a lawsuit by a former nonpartisan candidate for U.S. Senate that said Hawaii television stations discriminated against her for not allowing her to appear in a televised debate. Associated Press.

University of Hawaii athletic director Ben Jay will resign Tuesday, sources told the Hono­lulu Star-Advertiser. The resignation is expected to be made at a news conference on campus, along with the decision to retain football coach Norm Chow for a fourth season. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii Athletic Director Ben Jay will resign from his position Tuesday, sources have confirmed with Hawaii News Now.

The man who had stalked U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard since she was on the Honolulu City Council has been sentenced to 33 months in prison after pleading no contest to two counts of transmitting threats. Civil Beat.

Former Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee talks about problems at agency. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Transportation announced Monday the appointments of former DOT interim director Ross Higashi as Airports Division deputy director and Ed Sniffen, current executive assistant to Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell, as Highways Division deputy director. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission approved, with certain conditions, a joint plan for the administration of the Feed-In-Tariff program queues to address important issues and promptly move shovel ready projects to completion, according to a media release issued Monday. West Hawaii Today.

A University of Hawaii professor said the recent announcement that American Savings Bank will be spun off by parent company Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. will make operations and goals clearer for both the bank and analysts. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Oahu food truck operators will need to bid for one of 10 on-street "super stalls" at five locations in order to operate in the Honolulu Capital Special Design District during lunch hours under a two-year pilot project expected to begin soon. Star-Advertiser.

A city plan calls for revitalization near future station sites, especially around Kapalama Canal. Some people fear rising rents and displacement. Civil Beat.

The popular Route E CountryExpress! that starts and ends in Ewa Beach is once again traveling as far east as Wai­kiki as part of restored and expanded bus service that began Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

Days after being put into use, the King Street cycle track is already a hit with cyclists. KHON2.

Opinion: Vacation Rental Scofflaws, Beware. There are hundreds of illegal vacation rentals in Honolulu. The city is discussing a new effort to shut them down. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

There was a soft, rhythmic crunching of the glassy crust underfoot as the group of about 20 journalists trudged their way across the stalled lava flow. Having crossed Apa‘a Street just south of the Pahoa transfer station Oct. 25, the flow crusted over and inflated from its original height of 1 foot to between 6 and 10 feet, and even higher in some places. Tribune-Herald.

Crackling sounds resonated underfoot while geologists walked along the stalled lava flow along the fence line of the Pahoa Recycling and Transfer Station on Monday afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

State officials and gun enthusiasts are hoping the third time’s a charm to persuade dubious neighbors that a shooting range at Puuanahulu won’t be within earshot. West Hawaii Today.

NextEra Energy, a Florida-based company that agreed to purchase Hawaiian Electric Industries for $4.3 billion, is finding a lot to like about the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

Scientists say an emerging infectious disease is afflicting a forest bird native to the Big Island. The University of Hawaii said Monday the disease sometimes called scaly leg was first detected in the Hawaii amakihi in 2007. Associated Press.

Maui

A federal judge is scheduled to rule as early as Friday on the legality of a Maui County ballot initiative that calls for a moratorium on Genetically Engineered Crops. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Old Kahului Railroad Building, one of the last remnants of Maui's rich plantation past, is one step closer to being immortalized in the state and nation. Maui News.

Maui Police found that 43% of truck drivers did not have their cargo loads properly covered and secured during a three hour educational effort held at the Central Maui Landfill on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2014. Maui Now.

Kauai

A new, more stringent Kauai law aims to protect the island's coastline by folding erosion data into calculations used to set limits on shoreline construction. A shoreline setback bill was signed into law last week. Star-Advertiser.

Friends of Mahaulepu will host its second meeting in as many months on Thursday opposing Hawaii Dairy Farms’ proposed $17.5 million, 578-acre dairy in Mahaulepu Valley. Garden Island.

Creepy Crawlers. Employees miss work after being bitten by reclusive island spider. Garden Island.

Sunken ship discovered, Ige campaign pinched pennies, people grow tolerant of coqui frogs, Kona developers want to renege on road deal, 9 Kauai plants may be added to endangered list, 3k pine trees to be uprooted on Maui, elders commemorate Pearl Harbor bombing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Kailua state library of Queensland

Researchers with the University of Hawaii’s Marine Heritage Program have discovered a “Ghost Ship” off of Oahu. The wreckage of the USS Kailua sits about 20 miles off the coast of Waikiki in 2,000 feet of water. The ship was originally named the USS Dickerson and served as a cable ship between Hawaii and Midway before being used by the US Navy.  When no longer needed, the ship was used as torpedo target practice and sunk in 1946, its location forgotten until now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Researchers on a Hawaii underwater submersible found a sunken ship off Oahu that was commissioned into military service during World War II, according to the University of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Researchers from the University of Hawaii and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced on Friday the discovery of the USS Kailua, a ship that disappeared off the coast of Oahu in 1946. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige was the first successful gubernatorial candidate in two decades to stay under the state’s spending limit and qualify for public funds. Associated Press.

Gov. David Ige spent $2 million on his historic campaign — or roughly $11.25 a vote. The Democrat raised $2.4 million overall and had a $435,029 surplus, according to his final state campaign-finance report for the November election. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a yearly status appraisal of plants and animals that are candidates for Endangered Species Act protection. Twenty-two species from Hawaii and one species of bird historically from American Samoa were added to the candidate list, one species was removed, and one has changed in priority from the last Candidate Notice of Review conducted in November 2013. West Hawaii Today.

NextEra Energy’s announcement Wednesday of a $4.3 billion deal to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries has spurred state regulators to start gearing up for one of the biggest utility cases in Hawaii’s history. The Public Utilities Commission, headed by Mina Morita, will soon be scrutinizing the proposed sale and considering whether to accept it, reject it, or — most likely — impose conditions. Civil Beat.

The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Insurance Division approved an 8.4 percent increase for Hawaii Medical Service Association individual transitional, or “grandmother,” plans, saving plan purchasers $2.3 million in health care premiums and affecting over 8,250 covered lives, the DCCA announced Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Thousands attended ceremonies marking the 73rd anniversary of the Dec. 7, 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, an event that also marked the end of an era for the few remaining survivors from the U.S.S. Arizona. Hawaii News Now.

At 92, Tom Berg made the trip from his West Coast home to Oahu to join roughly 3,500 others Sunday morning at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center to commemorate the 73rd anniversary of the bombing that brought America into World War II. Star-Advertiser.

The drone revolution isn't coming; it's hovering overhead — and the Federal Aviation Administration is playing catch-up with new technology that has rapidly outpaced regulations and is flying off retailers' shelves for Christmas. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A new Honolulu law will make it easier for the city to remove abandoned vehicles from front yards or get rid of fire hazards like dead wood and overhanging trees. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Electric Co. is moving forward with six large solar energy farms on Oahu totaling 207 megawatts that will be developed by SunEdison, First Wind, Eurus Energy America and Forest City, the Honolulu-based utility said Friday. Pacific Business News.

With a blessing, chants and the symbolic passing of rocks among supporters, a group of Windward Oahu residents last week launched fundraising and volunteer efforts to complete the restoration of an 800-year-old Hawaiian fishpond. Star-Advertiser.

The median price of a home in Honolulu hit a historic $719,500 in November, according to new data from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. The previous record high was $700,000 in June. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The developers of the Palamanui educational, commercial and residential complex are asking to be relieved of the obligation to build a mauka to makai connector road that would link Queen Kaahumanu Highway to Highway 190. If they don’t get it, plans for the development could be scuttled, consultants for the project say. West Hawaii Today.

Study: People growing tolerant of coqui frogs. West Hawaii Today.

Sunday observation of the June 27 lava flow front revealed burning along the edges and some widening, but very little forward advancement. Tribune-Herald.

A small, historic Big Island theater will keep its lights on thanks to overwhelming support from this close-knit community. More than 500 local families donated to save the Hono­kaa People's Theatre, an institution since plantation days. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

The Old Kahului Railroad Building, one of the last remnants of Maui's rich plantation past, is one step closer to being immortalized in the state and nation. Maui News.

The National Park Service plans to remove 3,000 invasive pine trees at Haleakala National Park with the help of helicopters. The operation begins Monday and will last through Thursday. Associated Press.

A biotech group backed by Monsanto and Dow AgroSciences spent a record-breaking $7 million in its failed attempt to defeat a Maui County voter initiative that will temporarily ban genetically engineered farming — if it survives a legal challenge by the companies. Civil Beat.

Maui County Council members hope that reducing the county's stringent residential workforce housing criteria will encourage developers to build more affordable housing. Maui News.

Alvin Amaral, a state House member and Maui County Council member in the 1970s, died Nov. 18, according to an obituary. The Wailuku resident was 86 years old. Maui News.

Kauai

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering listing nine plant species from Kauai under the Endangered Species Act. The USFWS recently released a yearly status appraisal of plants and animals that are candidates for ESA protection. A total of 22 plant species from Hawaii are on the list. Garden Island.

The state Department of Agriculture, in conjunction with Kauai County, plans to examine possible health and environmental impacts associated with the use of pesticides applied to genetically modified organism products, officials said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Contractors working on the new Hokulei Village shopping center anticipate completing construction on the roundabout at the intersection of Nuhou Street and Kaneka Street by mid-January. Garden Island.

Charter schools lag in 3R's, Honolulu police chief causes mistrial, Kauai newspaper offers $10k reward in monk seal bludgeoning, Pearl Harbor officials blasted for selling free tickets, Waikiki merchants could pay fee for beach upkeep, Pahoa merchants eye lava flow, land use mulled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Hawaii Charter Schools Network

Public school students as a whole performed better than charter school students in math, reading and science last year, according to the Charter School Commission's annual report released this week. Star-Advertiser.

An internal report from the National Park Service, which operates a visitors' center for a memorial at the USS Arizona, said tour companies sold tickets with the knowledge of park officials even though tickets are supposed to be free. Associated Press.

The state of Hawaii has implemented a "cloud first" policy across all state departments for all new information technology projects and migrating existing applications, the governor's office announced Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Three U.S. cities that President Barack Obama once called home are trying to outdo one another as the competition to host his future presidential library comes to a close. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Attorney General’s office and Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism failed to report millions of dollars from certain accounts, hindering the Legislature’s ability to monitor the money, a state audit has found. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents voted unanimously Thursday to approve Kalbert Young as chief operating officer and vice president for budget and finance. Young had been state budget director the past four years under former Gov. Neil Abercrombie, helping craft the state's roughly $10 billion operating budget and develop long-term financial strategies. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s FBI agency received $1.2 million worth of equipment in the form of three mine-resistant vehicles. Civil Beat.

The head of the Florida company buying Hawaiian Electric Industries said Thursday he plans to lower electric bills in the islands by switching power plants to liquefied natural gas, adding large-scale solar and wind farms and making use of smart grid technology. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The lawyer for the man who was on trial for allegedly stealing Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha's mailbox is accusing Kealoha of intentionally causing a mistrial. Star-Advertiser.

Inappropriate testimony from Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha caused a federal judge to declare a mistrial in what has become a high-profile case involving a mailbox stolen from his house and an ongoing family feud between his wife and her estranged uncle over money. Civil Beat.

It was only in its second hour and on the second witness, when the federal trial for the man accused of stealing the mailbox of the Honolulu Police chief, abruptly ended. Hawaii News Now.

If two new city bills aimed at maintaining iconic Waikiki Beach are adopted, commercial property owners in the area will have to contribute to beach restoration projects. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Drivers traversing the intersection of Queen Kaahumanu Highway and Makala Boulevard in Kailua-Kona may need to adjust their driving pattern, and more changes are ahead. West Hawaii Today.

On Monday, a group of students and activists took down the American flag flying at main entrance of the University of Hawaii at Hilo, instead raising the Hawaiian flag that was beneath it. The action was related to what they say is the continued illegal occupation of the Hawaiian Kingdom by the United States. Big Island Video News.

A bill aimed at increasing transparency and public input in the process of creating planned unit developments was reluctantly endorsed Thursday by the Windward Planning Commission. West Hawaii Today.

The lava flow on the Big Island has shifted in recent weeks. That means new neighborhoods threatened and lots of questions, which community leaders attempted to answer Wednesday night. KITV4.

The new leading edge of the June 27 lava flow moved 170 yards between Wednesday and Thursday, bringing it within about 435 yards of a fork in its predicted path. Tribune-Herald.

Twenty-one people attended a state Planning Office meeting Wednesday at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority, where officials gathered input about the state’s land use process, specifically district boundary amendment procedures. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii residents might have a harder time finding a Christmas tree this year after shipments to one major retailer were sent back to the mainland. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Target has already attracted 1,100 applicants online, and had hundreds of interested job seekers attend the first day of a four-day job fair on Maui today. Maui Now.

Maui-based Pacific Biodiesel Technologies has signed a contract with Hawaiian Electric to supply the utility with biodiesel processed from waste cooking oil and other local feedstocks for use at HECO's 110-megawatt Campbell Industrial Park generation facility. Maui News.

Kauai

The Garden Island newspaper is putting up a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for the bludgeoning death of a female Hawaiian monk seal pup in Anahola, on Kauai’s northeast coast. The award matches a $10,000 award offered by the Humane Society of the United States, Conservation Council of Hawaii, Center for Biological Diversity and the Monk Seal Foundation.

The county will not change the designation of a Poipu neighborhood after many residents and property owners objected. County planning officials, in response to concerns from Whalers Cove residents, said they will keep the active residential zoning designation for the area. Garden Island.

Honolulu rail project transforming Oahu landscape, Ige names 6 to Cabinet, Florida company to buy Hawaiian Electric, Kauai mayor vetoes GMO land tax, 11,750-home Hoopili development approved, audit finds need for medical marijuana dispensaries, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail heads east into Oahu, courtesy HART

City and rail officials eagerly showed off the transit system's first 220 feet of track on Wednesday and gave the first public view from atop the so-called elevated guideway 37 feet above farmland in East Kapolei. Star-Advertiser.

The administration of Gov. David Ige began taking shape Wednesday as the new chief executive named six Cabinet member appointments and a deputy chief of staff as he continues the transition into office. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige on Wednesday named six more people to his Cabinet and two deputy directors, all of whom are subject to Senate confirmation. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige announced six new members of his cabinet and two new deputies Wednesday. Associated Press.

NextEra Energy Inc. said Wednesday it plans to buy Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. to expand clean energy in Hawaii. The companies value the deal at $2.6 billion, or $4.3 billion including the assumption of Hawaiian Electric’s debt. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Electric Industries will be acquired by Florida-based NextEra Energy Inc., one of North America's top producers of wind and solar energy, in a deal valued at about $4.3 billion, the two companies said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

NextEra Energy announced on Wednesday a deal to purchase Hawaiian Electric Industries, which includes utilities serving Oahu, the Big Island and Maui County, for $2.63 billion. The overall transaction, valued at $4.3 billion, includes the assumption of $1.7 billion in debt. Under the deal, American Savings Bank will be spun off into an independent, publicly traded company. Civil Beat.

A Florida company announced Wednesday it would buy Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. for $4.3 billion and take on the challenge of moving the state off its near total dependence on imported fossil fuels for power generation. Star-Advertiser.

NextEra Energy, one of the nation's largest clean energy companies, announced Wednesday it wants to buy Hawaiian Electric Company in a deal worth $4.3 billion that both sides would mean lower bills for electric consumers on five Hawaiian islands who pay some of the highest rates in the country. Hawaii News Now.

It’s a business deal that will change the face of business in the state. Florida-based NextEra Energy is buying Hawaiian Electric Industries in a $4.3 billion deal. As part of the agreement, American Savings Bank would become a separate publicly-traded company. Hawaii Public Radio.

NextEra Energy is best known in Florida, where it’s based, as Florida Power and Light. But it’s already doing business in 26 other states and in Canada. KHON2.

Hawaiian Electric Co. was not for sale, according to to CEO of the parent of the state's largest electric utility, who said that Florida-based NextEra Energy approached the Honolulu-based utility regarding an acquisition. Pacific Business News.

A new fee showing up on power bills will help secure low interest loans for those who couldn’t otherwise afford to install photovoltaic or make other investments in clean energy. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii lawmakers are moving ahead on bills creating medical marijuana dispensaries, following an audit released this week that said flaws in existing law justify a better way to provide the drug to patients. West Hawaii Today.

Last December, same sex marriage became legal in Hawai‘i. The state Department of Health says same-sex marriages make up about 12% of all weddings here, with more than 3000 registered couples in the past year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Opinion: Education reform in Hawaii is on a really rocky path. Some things, like universal early childhood education, are going way too slow. One really crucial thing is going too fast. Hawaii’s educators and politicians have fallen head over heels for the Common Core. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The 11,750-home Hoopili development on agricultural lands on the Ewa Plain got the thumbs-up Wednesday from the Honolulu Planning Commission. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday approved a zone change that would pave the way for developer D.R. Horton to build 11,750 homes in West Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The June 27 lava flow hasn’t shown signs of slowing yet as it approaches a low spot that will determine its future course. As of Wednesday morning, the flow’s leading edge had advanced another 420 yards and was about 2.5 miles from Highway 130. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has signed a Second Supplementary Proclamation to the current State of Emergency. Big Island Video News.

The Nature Conservancy acquired a conservation easement to preserve a 922-acre area with an ancient forest and disappearing stream on the Big Island. Associated Press.

Maui

After leasing the Kula Gym for more than 30 years, Maui County now has an opportunity to purchase and preserve the facility that has, over the years, been host to community gatherings, youth sports leagues and pickup basketball games. Maui News.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. has vetoed a bill that would likely have resulted in higher taxes for agricultural lands being used for biotech research. Garden Island.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources will begin a $1 million improvement project at Kokee and Waimea Canyon state parks today. Garden Island.

A reward for information leading to a conviction of the person responsible for bludgeoning a female Hawaiian monk seal pup to death in Anahola has doubled.  The reward is now at $10,000, up from $5,000 on Tuesday. Garden Island.

A longtime Kauai Police Officer has lost his job after being convicted of firearms violations. Garden Island.

Endangered Hawaiian monk seal bludgeoned to death, rule-breaking education employees enjoy paid leave, clean energy surcharge added to electric bills, pair charged in illegal lava tours, University of Hawaii settles 1st Amendment lawsuit, new wildlife fence on Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Monk seal found dead on Kauai, photo courtesy NOAA

A young female Hawaiian monk seal was found dead at a beach in Anahola on Kauai after being bludgeoned on the side of the head, according to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Star-Advertiser.

A female Hawaiian monk seal pup, one of several that survived a deadly dog attack in July, was found bludgeoned to death Sunday along a rocky beach in Anahola. Garden Island.

Monk seal in early 2014, courtesy NOAA

$5,000 Reward for Leads on Monk Seal Death on Kauai. The Hawaiian monk seal, born on June 2014, was found dead from blunt force trauma over the weekend. Civil Beat.

Authorities are investigating the killing of a Hawaiian monk seal pup on Kauai. The young female seal (RF58) was found bludgeoned to death at a beach in Anahola on Sunday, according to Department of Land and Natural Resources officials. Hawaii News Now.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in cooperation with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, is investigating the suspicious death of a Hawaiian monk seal on the northeast coast of Kauai. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Education on average places one employee a week on paid leave while it investigates various complaints of alleged misconduct, and roughly 1 in 4 of those investigations takes longer than a year to complete. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Co. customers will see a new charge on their electrical bills this month that will be used to help finance clean-energy installations for low-income residents. The new charge — labeled the "Green Infrastructure Fee" — will pay for the state's Green Energy Market Securitization, or GEMS, program. Star-Advertiser.

Support for medical marijuana dispensaries is gaining momentum. And a newly released report could provide even more ammunition for those needing better access to the drug. The state auditor's report says pot pharmacies are necessary. Hawaii News Now.

On January 1st, control of the state medical marijuana system will be changing from the Department of Public Safety to the Department of Health.  But patients whose registrations expire this month are urged to reapply by December 12th to avoid any lapse in coverage.  Applicants must still obtain a signed physician’s statement before applying. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz' wife, Linda Schatz, who held executive positions at Kamehameha Schools and Brookfield Homes Hawaii, recently joined homebuilder Forest City Hawaii as its development manager, the Cleveland, Ohio-based company said Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Nani Coloretti to serve as deputy secretary at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, making her the highest-ranking Fili­pino-American in the administration of President Barack Obama. Star-Advertiser.

A former budget analyst for the state of Hawaii has been named deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Nani Coloretti was appointed by President Barack Obama on Tuesday. Associated Press.

Survivors of the aerial attack that destroyed the USS Arizona on Dec. 7, 1941, are going the way of the Doolittle Raiders and Flying Tigers of similar World War II fame. There are fewer and fewer of the war heroes left as they age into their 90s. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: One Solution for Out-of-Control Rents. Many of the factors conspiring to create Hawaii’s housing crisis inspired the implementation of rent stabilization elsewhere. Civil Beat.

Oahu

With the sit-lie ban in place on sidewalks in Waikiki and 15 other business neighborhoods across Oahu, Hono­lulu City Council members are turning their attention to a bill that would make it illegal to sit or lie down at six downtown Hono­lulu and Chinatown malls. Star-Advertiser.

Opinion: Haseko Calls Disclosure of PR Plan ‘Embarrassing’. But a judge rules against the development company that is being sued over its decision to build a lagoon instead of the marina homeowners expected. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

A Kealakekua courtroom was packed with well-wishers Tuesday as a new judge took the oath of office. Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald administered the oath to Margaret Masunaga, a former Hawaii County deputy corporation counsel. West Hawaii Today.

A pair of University of Hawaii at Hilo students is claiming a victory for free speech after the school agreed Tuesday to settle a First Amendment lawsuit filed in April. Tribune-Herald.

A lawsuit brought by two students claiming their First Amendment rights were violated by the University of Hawaii at Hilo has resulted in a systemwide revision of the university's free-speech policy. Star-Advertiser.

Land use is usually a contentious topic, but only about a dozen people showed up at meeting Tuesday evening in Hilo to provide input to a state agency seeking to improve the process. West Hawaii Today.

The Kohala coast — known for pocket-sized, postcard beaches and for resorts carved out of a wasteland of lava — has a new distinction. Waikoloa is now ranked 8th on the list of the top 10 rising destinations in the U.S. in the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards. West Hawaii Today.

The June 27 lava flow advanced another 350 to 400 yards as of Tuesday morning, placing its front about 2.7 miles from the intersection of Highway 130 and Pahoa Village Road. Tribune-Herald.

Two guides who were involved in leading lava tours into the state Wao Kele O Puna Forest Reserve and Kahaualea Natural Area Reserve were arrested Monday by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement officers. West Hawaii Today.

Today in New Delhi, officials of the government of India signed documents establishing the country as a full partner in the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project. An international collaboration of institutions in the USA, Canada, Japan, India and China, the TMT project is working towards building a powerful, next-generation astronomical observatory at Mauna Kea in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaiian Electric companies are looking to work with businesses in order to manage electricity demand on the islands. Maui News.

Target is looking to hire approximately 250 team members for its new Kahului  store at the future Puʻunēnē Shopping Center, which is currently under construction and is set to open in March, 2015. Maui Now.

Kauai

Rare native plant and animal communities that have inhabited a roughly eight-acre area at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge — including imperiled bird species found nowhere else on Earth — will be protected following the installation of the state-of-the-art fence east of the lighthouse. Garden Island.

The state Department of Agriculture and Kauai County are paying a consultant $100,000 to examine the possible health and environmental effects of pesticide use on genetically modified crops. Civil Beat.

Inauguration Day: Ige sworn in as governor still seeking a Cabinet, Hawaii and Kauai counties seat councils, lava flow picks up steam, deadly pig virus confirmed, more government and political news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige inauguration, courtesy photo

The wind-swept, cool afternoon on inauguration day was a dramatic change from the hot and dry outdoor ceremony four years ago that brought a new Hawaii governor into power. Star-Advertiser.

David Ige was sworn in as Hawaii’s eighth governor on Monday following a patriotic ceremony that culminated in a 19-cannon salute reverberating through the Capitol halls. Standing on a stage with Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, Ige introduced himself to the hundreds of people seated in the open-air rotunda. Civil Beat.

Democrat David Ige was sworn in Monday as Hawaii’s eighth governor, taking the oath of office in the state Capitol in a ceremony that featured hula dancers, conch calls and ukulele serenades. Associated Press.

Democrat David Ige was sworn in as the eighth Governor of Hawaii during an inauguration ceremony at the State Capitol Monday afternoon. Hawaii News Now.

Democrat David Ige was sworn in as Hawaii's eighth governor since statehood Monday, calling for members of his administration to work together to engage the public with the state government. Pacific Business News.

Hawai’i’s new Governor was sworn in today at the State Capitol. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi’s newly sworn in Governor, David Ige and Lieutenant Governor Shan Tsutsui of Maui delivered their inaugural addresses at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol this afternoon. The theme, “Honoring the Past, and Charting a New Tomorrow,” was apparent as both honored their family history and spoke of their hopes for the next generation. Maui Now.

Hawaii entered a new era on Monday with a new leader in charge of our state. Gov. David Ige was sworn into office at noon Monday on the rotunda of the State Capitol. KHON2.

During Monday's inauguration celebration, David Ige talked about Hawaii's future years from now. The new governor also outlined what will happen in the next few weeks, after being on the job for just a few hours. KITV4.

Inauguration Day Slideshow: ‘I’m David Ige’ A day of pageantry and celebration unfolds at the Hawaii Capitol before the new governor gets down to the business of running state government. Civil Beat.

TRANSCRIPT: Ige's 2014 Inaugural Address. KITV4.

New Gov. David Ige plans to spend the next few days with his closest advisers looking over resumes and reviewing the state's fiscal situation as he fills out his Cabinet and puts together the executive budget to submit to the Legislature in three weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige had just two members of his cabinet in place as he took office Monday, far fewer than his predecessor, fellow Democrat Neil Abercrombie, had on board when he was sworn in four years ago. Hawaii News Now.

David Louie’s term at Hawaii’s attorney general ended when David Ige was sworn in as governor Monday at the State Capitol. David Louie is no longer Hawaii’s attorney general. Ige will not keep Louie in his cabinet, and instead will be relying upon Russell Suzuki on an interim basis until a successor is chosen. Civil Beat.

Gov. David Ige has selected Rachael Wong as the next director of the state Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Richard Rapoza, the longtime communications director for U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, starts a new job today as director of strategic communications for Hawaii Pacific University. Civil Beat.

Landlords’ Rejections Keep Hawaii Homeless on the Streets Longer. Many Hawaii property owners refuse to accept renters using vouchers from Housing First and Section 8 programs. Civil Beat.

The number of University of Hawaii freshmen taking 15 or more course credits has increased by 50 percent over the past three years — an improvement the university says will help more students graduate on time and enter the workforce more quickly. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The theft of the Honolulu police chief's mailbox not only brought allegations of undue influence after a crack police squad made an arrest, but also exposed a messy family financial dispute. Star-Advertiser.

A bill expanding the city's sit-lie ordinance into downtown Honolulu and 14 other business districts throughout Oahu will be signed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials confirmed the first outbreak of a deadly pig virus on a farm on Oahu, Reuters reported on Monday. According to the state agriculture department, the outbreak of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus, or PEDv, occurred on a farm with about 150 pigs, and about 25 percent have died. The state quarantined the infected farm, but officials are still uncertain how the virus arrived in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Friends of Hanauma Bay say the City has been mismanaging the nature preserve for years and they want the facility's budget separated from the general fund. Hawaii News Now.

The developer of a planned $500 million regional shopping center in Kapolei has signed a 65-year lease with the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands, overcoming a major hurdle for the ambitious project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Tears, joy, controversy and even silly hats marked the changing of the guard Monday, as three members of the County Council were replaced by newcomers eager to get on with the people’s work. West Hawaii Today.

After staying far upslope for the past two weeks, the lava flow advanced hastily over the weekend with a fresh ribbon of red molten rock establishing itself as its new front. Tribune-Herald.

An active lava breakout near an abandoned geothermal well has been declared the new flow front, a stream of lava that could threaten the Pahoa area in as soon as 12 days if it continues on its current pace. Star-Advertiser.

A plan to use an abandoned pipe to transport biofuel from ships docked at Hilo Harbor to a nearby storage facility will likely be approved after it cleared an environmental assessment. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui started a pilot project to encourage more recycling by offering curbside pickup, but the economics have not worked out. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lui Hokoana said he brings a "student-centered" philosophy, or one that "puts students first," to his role as the University of Hawaii Maui College's new chancellor. Maui News.

Kauai

It’s back to basics for the County of Kauai. That’s the common concept that Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and newly selected County Council Chair Mel Rapozo say is needed to heal past wounds, regain the trust of residents and strengthen community bonds. Garden Island.

Two staunch opponents of a controversial and yet-to-be-implemented county law that regulates some pesticide use and cultivation of genetically modified crops will lead the new Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Under the new Pay-as-You-Throw ordinance, which takes effect in July 2015, customers can choose between a 64- or 96-gallon cart for their automated curbside refuse collection. These options are available to customers who have 96-gallon carts, as well as to the 9,000 residents around the island who will begin to receive the automated service come July. Garden Island.

The County Planning Director can be subpoenaed for deposition as a witness in a civil matter, even if the county was already dismissed as a defendant in a negligence case brought by former Hanalei boatyard owner Michael Sheehan against his neighbors. Garden Island.

Fish come to market, Ige inauguration today, county councils see new members, energy-efficient airport coming to Honolulu, cruise ships stable, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian fisherman © 2014 All Hawaii News

Hawai‘i could see its first community supported fishery as early as next year. The concept is similar to community supported agriculture, where customers bypass the supermarket and pay farmers directly for a weekly delivery of fresh produce. Hawaii Public Radio.

Four years after promises of a new day dissolved into a tumultuous and at times combative administration under Neil Abercrombie, Gov.-elect David Ige, the unassuming electrical engineer from Pearl City, takes the reins of state government with the promise to lead in a more collaborative fashion. Star-Advertiser.

10 Things Hawaii’s Next Governor Has Said He’ll Do. David Ige told voters he would do quite a bit if elected. Here's some of what the public should expect to see. Civil Beat.

When Gov.-elect David Ige was an ambitious, 28-year-old engineer looking to climb the corporate ladder, the last thing on his mind was running for public office. Associated Press.

It was a decision Gov. Neil Abercrombie said may have cost him re-election, but one he stood by as a proud legacy that will live on long after he leaves the state’s highest office. Under Abercrombie’s tenure as governor, Hawaii legalized same-sex marriage, and Abercrombie’s decision to call a special legislative session over the issue was widely seen as the reason nearly 3,000 same-sex couples were able to wed in the state in the past year. Associated Press.

Warship drills in isles. The USS Fort Worth engages in cross-service offshore exercises as it readies for its deployment to Singapore. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health was hoping that outgoing Gov. Neil Abercrombie would sign new rules into law before he leaves office at noon Monday that would help phase out thousands of cesspools throughout the islands that could be contaminating coastal waters with raw sewage. Civil Beat.

These are unquestionably difficult days for Japan’s economy. And tourism executives and government officials in Hawaii are right to pay attention to the situation. But despite some scary numbers, the Japanese visitor market to Hawaii is not about to drop off a cliff. Civil Beat.

Decline in native birds is linked to tiny mejiro. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for Dec. 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

A $150 million energy savings performance contract aimed at cutting energy use by about 50 percent at Honolulu International Airport is getting national attention. The efficiency gains equate to a $518 million savings in energy costs over 20 years. Pacific Business News.

The contentious Hoopili development project that could bring as many as 11,750 new homes to the Ewa plain comes before the Honolulu Planning Commission on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council on Monday will bid aloha to three council members before turning its attention to a new council term with three new faces. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii businesses can expect little to change in the coming year when it comes to the number of cruise ship visitor arrivals. Tribune-Herald.

USGS geologists with the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory say satellite observations over the past few days indicate Puna lava flow breakouts in the ground crack system continue to advance downslope between the abandoned geothermal well site and Kaohe Homesteads. Hawaii News Now.

The Aloha State says goodbye today to a 2014 Central Pacific hurricane season that set precedents on several fronts, including three cyclones cranking in its neighborhood at once and a direct hit on the Big Island by Tropical Storm Iselle. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Cultural Resource Commission will consider recommending the Kahului Railroad Administration Building to the Hawaii and National Register of Historic Places at its meeting Friday. Maui News.

Home sales on Maui were down in October from the same time last year with a total of 80 homes sold for a median price of $564,000, according to new data released by the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui Now.

A Beverly Hills, Calif., commercial real estate firm announced the closing of the sale - for reportedly in the upper-$60 million - of the 5-decade-old Maui Lu Resort in Kihei. Maui News.

Kauai

The public is invited to attend the inauguration of Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and the new Kauai County Council scheduled today. Garden Island.

New plans by the Honolulu-based development company Coco Palms Hui, LLC to rebuild, renovate and revitalize the historical site have drawn praise and criticism by some residents who have watched the vacant hotel along Kuhio Highway languish over the years. Garden Island.

James Pflueger’s Oct. 15 sentencing in Kauai’s 5th circuit court caused a great stir in the islands after he was given just seven months in prison on a reckless endangering charge. But in reality, Pflueger will spend less than a week behind bars per death. Hawaii Reporter.