New rental car tax nets $5M, Honolulu cleaning streets of homeless, Maui lures tourists, movie-makers, geothermal pitched for Big Island, hydroelectric for Kauai, top Hawaii government and politics news for web and smartphone

Humpback whale NOAA courtesy photo

A confirmed appearance of a humpback whale in Honaunau Bay this week marked the anticipated return of the gentle giants to Hawaii, as well as a reminder for all ocean users to keep a safe distance. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s leaders say allowing more visitors from a growing group of ready to spend Chinese holds enormous economic potential for destinations like Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Higher Rental Car Fee Generates Extra $5 Million. Civil Beat.

State Budget Solutions in its analysis of state budget trends during the past decade – reports that Hawaii is number 47 out of all 50 states in the “total of the state expenditures in a given fiscal year encompassing all state funds.” Hawaii Reporter.

What Super Committee's Automatic Cuts Would Mean for Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The federal government spent more than $20 billion in Hawai‘i for the first time last year. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A bill being introduced by Honolulu City Council members is expected to make it easier for city officials to remove the property of the homeless and others from sidewalks and parks. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee deliberated today on a resolution asking for new bids to build rail-cars for the city’s mass transit system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu's unemployment rate rose to 5.5 percent in August from 5.4 percent in July, causing the city to lose ground in a ranking of metropolitan areas with the nation's lowest jobless rates, according to a report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

For many Kapahulu residents and lawmakers Wednesday night was a chance to see for the first time conceptual plans for a new office building on Charles street adjacent to Leonard's bakery. KHON2.

It is a bittersweet day for customers as another mom-and-pop restaurant closes its doors, but the closure wasn't due to the tough economy. KITV4.

City vehicles that were set to be scrapped by Oahu Transit Services have instead been converted into HPD paddy wagons in preparation for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in early November. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii's dismal voter turnout could be improved by allowing people to vote by mail, said South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford in introducing a resolution asking the state Legislature to set up a pilot program in Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island residents aggrieved with the Reapportionment Commission's decision to deny Hawaii Island a fourth Senate seat are making good on their threat to have the Hawaii Supreme Court decide the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Developing a public-private partnership to produce geothermal energy on Hawaii Island could lead to a $1.25 million annual public benefit, a geothermal development company stressed Wednesday evening in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's fastest-growing island is getting more police officers to patrol its swelling neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Army National Guard and Army Reserves are holding a blessing for their new joint complex in Hilo Thursday. Associated Press.

Maui

Maui County must fully disinfect all wastewater at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility under a consent order with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pacific Business News.

The new visitor industry marketing campaign is just beginning to reach the public, but in test views on the Mainland, the reaction has been just what was hoped for, Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau Executive Director Terryl Vencl told the Maui Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday. Maui News.

From producers and scriptwriters to casting consultants to contractors who rent pump trucks to empty the portapotties on location shoots, the nucleus of Maui's permanent film production business filled Kahului Community Center on Monday night. Maui News.

Kauai

Free Flow Power is preparing for its first round of community outreach meetings on its proposed hydroelectric projects for Garden Isle waterways on behalf of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Molokai

In what appears to be a clash of Hawaiian and western cultures, some Molokai residents are upset that boaters who come to the island as escorts for canoe and other races are catching fish and taking other seafood from coastal waters. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has no worker safety regs for ziplines, Big Island fatality reveals, Ethics Commission clears lawmakers to accept APEC freebies, $29M park coming to Oahu's Sand Island, council kills impact fees again, ecotour operators feted, Kilauea on the move, more Hawaii news

courtesy USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Kilauea's eastern fault zone ruptured near Pu'u 'O'o for the third time this year, sending a flow of lava at least 11/2 miles to the east. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission agreed Wednesday that lawmakers could accept free tickets to some APEC-related events in November. Civil Beat.

Hawaii State Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo says he doesn't get the "big brouhaha" over his position that members of legislative task forces are state employees — and subject to the Ethics Code. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers Investigate Prison Complaints. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers earlier this year declined to increase tax credits for television and film productions filming in the islands, but the proposal is still alive for the 2012 legislative session. Hawaii Reporter.

The Task Force on Public Charter School Governance approved a draft plan today that will be used as the basis to revamp the system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fourteen Hawaii tourism companies have earned recognition as the state's first Certified Ecotour Operators through a standards program developed by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association to improve and protect the destination. Star-Advertiser.

A date has been set for the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to Japanese-American Veterans of World War II. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii Republican Party Chair John Carroll announced today that he will run for the U.S. Senate, for the seat to be vacated by Senator Daniel Akaka. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Canoe pavilions, a cafe, concession stands, restrooms, a marina and an ocean activity center are among the renovations the state is proposing in a $29 million master plan for Sand Island. Star-Advertiser.

A financially struggling slaughterhouse on Oahu, indebted to taxpayers, has been further imperiled after the two largest kama­aina supermarket chains decided to quit selling pork from hogs shipped live to Hawaii from the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

The leading opponents of Honolulu’s $5.3 billion elevated rail system are in need of some cash in their efforts to halt construction of the project. Pacific Business News.

West Oahu has waited 35 years for a new University of Hawaii campus, and soon that wait will be over. KHON2.

Hawaii

An impact fee would create too much impact for Hawaii County lawmakers to accept. Tribune-Herald.

Impact fees, which have been considered by the Hawaii County Council for decades, have been rejected again. West Hawaii Today.

One man was killed and a second was fighting for his life after a 30-foot zip line tower in Paukaa collapsed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Zip line operations have no workplace safety regulations in Hawaii, unlike other amusement rides. KITV4.

Hawaii County police on Wednesday received $140,000 in forfeiture money for the department's work more than five years ago on a federal methamphetamine trafficking investigation. West Hawaii Today.

Alahou Clean and Sober Executive Director Sandra McCoy is facing charges of assaulting an officer, disorderly conduct and possessing a controlled substance stemming from a July altercation in Mississippi. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Although state housing official Karen Seddon promised two weeks ago to decrease rents at a troubled Maui housing project, her agency now has ordered rent increases. Hawaii Reporter.

A Maui businessman confirmed Tuesday that he is proposing to develop a bottled-water plant in rural Waihee, adding that the project is part of a larger plan to acquire 490 acres in the area and preserve most of it from residential development. Maui News.

Maui County is looking for a contractor to design and install a midsized, wind-powered turbine to generate as much as 100 kilowatts of power for a water-pumping station in Kaupakulua. Maui News.

Kauai
County officials are reminding the public that an increase in the state motor vehicle weight tax and registration fee was approved by the 2011 State Legislature. Garden Island.

Hawaii Tourism Authority targets North America, Oahu crime drops, Honolulu to host Medal of Honor ceremony, Kona donkeys arrive in California, garbage wars, sewage spills, pay freezes and other Hawaii news

Waikoloa resort (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is due to discuss its plan for marketing Hawaii in North America next year at a meeting this week. Associated Press.

Hawaii GOP Plans to Field CD2 Candidate. Civil Beat.

Most Hawaii State Senators Use Facebook. Civil Beat.

Local 'Ag' Strives to Meet Hawaii's Energy Needs. Civil Beat.

It's been touted for years, now it's less than two months until November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Hawaii. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu's total crime rate in seven categories dropped in 2010 to its lowest level since Hawaii began using the federal standard 35 years ago. Star-Advertiser

The Honolulu Medal of Honor 2012 host committee announced Saturday that the Congressional Medal of Honor Society had selected Honolulu to host its 2012 national convention. KITV4.

The ACLU has protested the arrest of a topless protestor and her husband in Waikiki last month, calling the action unconstitutional and demanding that a citation against the pair be dismissed. Hawaii Reporter.

For 45 years, troubled kids have been going to the "storefront school" in Wahiawa to make up credits and get a little tough love — and a lot of encouragement — to make it to graduation day. Star-Advertiser.

Over the weekend, State Civil Defense director Ed Teixeira stayed in close contact with crews dealt the difficult task of removing a 7 to 10-ton boulder from along the ridge side above Niu Valley. KITV4.

The unveiling of the Turtle Bay master plan, called “Tomorrow’s Ahupua’a,” for the proposed development of the North Shore resort on Thursday was preceded by a sign waving rally held by opponents of the proposed large scale development. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu was recently voted to the top 10 tattoo-friendly cities in the U.S. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Big Island garbage haulers are sliding further behind in more than $1.5 million of seriously past-due landfill fees to the county, but a Department of Environmental Management in disarray has so far done little to protect the taxpayers' interests. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiians had a saying: "He i'a make ka 'opihi": The opihi is the fish of death. Tribune-Herald.

Most people have been on a plane with a few jackasses before. But 10 dozen donkeys on one flight? Associated Press.

Maui

Despite a rebound in tourism, Maui County continues to shed jobs well after the official end of the recession, economist Leroy Laney said. Pacific Business News.

Environmental officials are warning the public about thousands of gallons of wastewater that spilled on Maui’s North Shore. Associated Press.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and several lawmakers heard concerns about dredging Lahaina Harbor, understaffed state enforcement officers and other issues during two "listening sessions" Saturday on Maui. Maui News.

Maui's axis deer problem has become so bad that the introduced animals with no natural predators have eaten entire crops and cost some South Maui golf courses up to $10,000 annually for repairs to trampled grass, testifiers told the Maui County Council at Friday's regular meeting. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council plans to reconsider its decision on a resolution that would have frozen the salaries of most county officials for the next two years when it meets Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

County officials announced that long-time county employee Glenn Sato has been selected as the Kaua‘i County sustainability manager, a newly created position. Garden Island.

Hawaii unemployment rate up, second Abercrombie Cabinet member resigns, Japanese message in bottle reaches Kauai, homeless camps airlifted off Diamond Head, Kona coffee lawsuit brewing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A hand grenade found Sept. 2 and a 57 mm Japanese mortar round discovered Thursday at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area on Hawaii Island have been detonated by the Army Corps of Engineers as an ordnance cleanup continues there, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's unemployment rate rose to a seasonally adjusted 6.2 percent in August in yet another sign that raises questions about the strength of the state's economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Human Resources director, Sunshine Topping, will leave her post Friday. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has appointed Barbara Krieg as interim director of the state Department of Human Resources Development after director Sunshine Topping resigned. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's latest graduation policy proposal that reverses a recommendation to reduce social studies requirements also goes against promises made in the state's Race to the Top. Civil Beat.

Russians Help Hawaii Hunt for Japanese Tsunami Debris. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

The Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo ended today in Honolulu. Some policy makers and planners asked why not use more volcanic heat to generate electricity in Hawai’i. Hawaii Public Radio.

They came by land and by air and in the end, more than 50 homeless campsites were torn down and removed along Diamond Head Crater. KHON2.

The state has ordered evacuation of 28 Niu Valley houses this weekend when two boulders — one of which weighs 7 to 10 tons and is likely to come loose — will be removed from a ridge above the structures. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii is considering raising tuition and on Friday the public will have the chance to weigh in. Hawaii News Now.

Lane closures related to nighttime soil sampling work for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project will begin Monday, September 19, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) announced today. Hawaii Independent.

Former Kaneohe Marine Awarded Medal Of Honor. KITV4.

The U.S. Department of Education on Thursday named three Oahu schools to the 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools list. KITV4.

It's a decades old debate of how to go about growth while maintaining the north shore's unique environment and community.KHON2.

Hawaii

A spat involving Safeway and Hawaii coffee growers is still brewing, even after the supermarket giant agreed to change labeling on its Kona blend coffee. Associated Press.

In a modern take on the great land rushes of the 19th century, Hawaii County is preparing to issue agricultural leases for Paauilo lands that have sat idle since 1994. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Blue Water Farms Inc. will soon be no more. The company that marketed its farmed amberjacks as Kona Kampachi is dissolving. West Hawaii Today.

Only two members of the public showed up Thursday evening to a hearing in Hilo by the state Department of Health's Clean Air Branch on proposed new restrictions to open burning. Tribune-Herald.

With supply lagging, a slow economy, high gas prices and used car prices rising, some local automobile dealers said sales may continue to creep ahead or fall behind last year's numbers, but no one can be certain in a volatile market. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. presented formal requests to Maui County Council members Wednesday for the entitlements the company needs to build the Pulelehua housing development in Mahinahina. Maui News.

There’s been a lot of belt-tightening across the state in recent months, but nothing like what happened on Maui. Pacific Business News.

State officials are completing a report with recommendations for the East Maui Animal Refuge to obtain a wildlife rehabilitation permit in the wake of an inspection and the federal seizure of 17 birds from the Haiku facility last month. Maui News.

Kauai
County ends fiscal year with 160 jobs open. Garden Island.

A sailor participating in a beach cleanup in Hawaii found a message in bottle that had been dropped in the ocean more than five years ago by a Japanese school girl. Star-Advertiser.

An unexpected treasure was found underneath the sizzling sun on the beaches of the Pacific Missile Range Facility Thursday, discovered by Navy Petty Officer Jon Moore during Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup Day. Garden Island.

Inouye, Akaka support Hirono, Hawaii lawmakers to challenge monk seal plan, no drug testing of teachers, not ready for APEC, millions in no-bid contracts for politically connected Big Island nonprofit, Kaui bans drinking, urinating, defecating on new county building grounds, Maui cop gets jail time, more news

U.S. Rep. Hirono with Sen. Dan Akaka in 2009, courtesy photo

Endorsement? US Senators Inouye, Akaka Make Appearance at Hirono Fundraisers. Hawaii Reporter.

Scores of small schools — those with transient populations and campuses in remote areas — would see their main source of funding reduced next school year by as much as 20 percent under a proposal before the Board of Education. Star-Advertiser.

After years of legal wrangling, a conflict about random drug testing for teachers appears to be at an end. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers will propose legislation challenging federal protections for monk seals if the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration doesn't scale back its proposals, according to state Rep. Sharon Har. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Waikiki street performers fear arrest. Hawaii News Now.

Portions of two state projects to spruce up Oahu for President Barack Obama and other world leaders coming here for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting have hit snags and will not be completed by the start of the event in November. Star-Advertiser.

Protests are in works for Hawaii APEC meeting. Civil Beat.

A former U.S. service member was arrested in Hawaii after he sent emails from Thailand that threatened to kill Vice President Joe Biden, authorities said Monday. Associated Press.

A judge has ruled more than 150 dogs and nearly 80 puppies currently in foster care should be forfeited to the Hawaiian Humane Society by owners of the breeding facility they were rescued from. KHON2.

The North Shore community of La’ie is one of the most over-crowded neighborhoods on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

The First Annual Lanikai Surf Festival takes place over the weekend of September 23-24 at Lanikai Park, featuring a wide variety of activities from surf films to a 2.4 stand up paddle race. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Darren Rosario became the Big Island's 21st fire chief on Monday during a morning ceremony on the balcony of the Hawaii County Building in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Over the past eight years, Hawaii County has awarded more than $3.3 million in no-bid contracts for disabled transportation services to a politically connected nonprofit. West Hawaii Today.

Officials posted warning signs at Hilo Bay following a spill of 500 gallons of wastewater, the state Department of Health reported. Star-Advertiser.

Campers are overstaying their welcome at Kiholo State Park Reserve, leaving behind trash and human waste, scorching the ground with fires and barbecues, damaging vegetation, and destroying archaeological sites, said state Department of Land and Natural Resources officials. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Transportation will receive $10.6 million to refurbish a runway at the Hilo International Airport, Hawaii's congressional delegation announced Monday in a joint news release. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Environmentalists and a long-time Makena advocate are concerned that there are no longer educational volunteers and only a sparse number of rangers to patrol the ecologically and geologically fragile Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve in Makena. Maui News.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will hold a meeting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday to discuss its investigation into 1940s-era unexploded ordnance that may be located in the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve in Makena. Maui News.

A federal judge has sentenced a former Maui police officer to a year-and-a-half in prison for stealing about $1,500 from a driver during a traffic stop and extorting sex from a woman who had been jailed. KITV4.

Kauai

Without much fanfare or discussion, the Kaua‘i County Council sent a message to the public last week: Do not drink, urinate or defecate in front of our new home. Garden Island.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has contracted with Hawaii BioEnergy LLC to supply 10 million gallons of Kauai-grown biofuel annually to power its Kahe Generating Station in Leeward Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Residents are being asked to provide input for a multi-use trail for the communities of Waimea and Kekaha. Garden Island.

Hannemann 'the one to beat,' military expands Hawaii's $62M remains identity lab, DOT seeks 50 engineers, Kauai taro gets boost, Honolulu surveillance cams raise privacy concerns, more Hawaii news

Mufi Hannemann (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Over the years, former Honolulu Mayor and newly announced congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann has developed the reputation of being a bully. Civil Beat.

Gabbard's Six Unions Didn't Go for Mufi Last Time, Either. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now political analyst Dan Boylan said Hannemann is the one to beat. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann is seeking the Democratic nomination to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono he announced Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Contract negotiators for the state made it clear to the teachers union in late April that if it didn't accept a labor savings deal, there would be big consequences, Board of Education member Jim Williams said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sex, drugs, and education: An inside look at Hawaii’s schools. Hawaii Independent.

The state Department of Health is again offering free flu vaccines to elementary and middle school students at more than 300 schools statewide. Associated Press.

The State Department of Transportation is looking to hire fifty people. KHON2.

In a classic Catch-22, Hawaii law requires elevators to pass an annual inspection, but the state cannot perform the safety tests fast enough to meet demand. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

By 2014 the Hawaii-based unit in charge of recovering and identifying remains of Americans listed as missing in action from the nation's wars will be working in a new facility that will increase efficiency and productivity, a military official said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Inouye Visits JPAC Groundbreaking Site. KITV4.

Several West Oahu residents testified Tuesday night against a political redistricting proposal that would no longer place Makakilo, Kapolei and Ko Olina in the same congressional district. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is being asked to approve a $1.4 million plan for Honolulu Police to use the traffic cameras to help with security during the economic summit in November. KITV4.

Proposed surveillance cameras raise privacy concerns. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a measure that would set aside up to $75 million for artwork that would be incorporated in the $5.3 billion elevated rail transit system. Pacific Business News.

The head of a new organization dedicated to preserving the Second Amendment has sued Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in federal court after Kealoha denied him in September 2010 a permit to carry and conceal a semiautomatic pistol. Star-Advertiser.

A subsidiary of Honeywell International Inc. is building a refinery on Oahu that will convert algae and other biomass into high-quality gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Associated Press.

Honolulu lifeguards and fire fighters helped bring 315 people back to shore as of Tuesday afternoon as a 12-15 foot swell pounded the South Shore of Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii

Approximately 50 soldiers from Hilo will deploy to Iraq on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

If you have an injury that requires magnetic resonance imaging, you now have access to the best technology on the neighbor islands, Kona Community Hospital officials say. West Hawaii Today.

The fight to launch a charter school in Laupahoehoe may not be over yet. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa said Monday that Maui County should create a new division to focus on sustainability issues, and that adding "sustainability" to the Department of Environmental Management was one of his top priorities for charter amendments. Maui News.

Two Maui legislators are meeting with state officials this week for answers on why a state affordable housing project is 40 per cent empty. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

The Taro Security and Purity Task Force announced last week that it has been awarded a grant of $135,000 a year for two years from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Garden Island.

In light of the recent hurricane that struck the East Coast, county officials on Tuesday urged residents and businesses who have not yet signed up for Connect CTY to do so. Garden Island.

Honolulu homeless sweep continues, Maui affordable housing in shambles, school test results released, Hilo religious marijuana trial delayed by jury handouts, Turtle Bay downsized, more Hawaii news

Aloha Festival parade (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s oldest and largest cultural festival, the annual Aloha Festivals , starts Sept. 1 and runs through the entire month — and continues to be among the biggest tourism draws for Waikiki every year. Pacific Business News.

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November will require more than one-thousand volunteers to assist guests during their stay in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Homeless Sweep Under Freeway Uncovers Elaborate Structures. KITV4.

Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway granted a request Monday by federal prosecutors to suspend $48,000 in restitution payments by a man who pleaded guilty to a felony charge related to Aloun Farms bringing in 44 Thai nationals to work at the Kapolei-based agricultural business. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Education released the school-by-school assessment results Monday morning. Civil Beat.

Of the five West Hawaii public schools that made adequate yearly progress, only two -- Innovations Public Charter School and Honaunau Elementary -- met No Child Left Behind reading and mathematics proficiency standards. West Hawaii Today.

A much-delayed lawsuit concerning the Hawaii public school system’s treatment of two autistic girls in the mid-1990’s is set to go to trial in October and could cost the state “millions of dollars” in damages for each of the girls, according to public records. Hawaii Reporter.

An independent investigative committee evaluating conditions at Hawaii's juvenile detention home find shortcomings. Civil Beat.

A former Hilo health clinic will become a 30-bed home for young adults with mental disorders under a land-use request pending before Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

A new front has been opened in the fight to keep Honolulu from awarding a $1.4 billion rail contract. Civil Beat.

The Board of Water Supply has postponed a vote on a plan to raise water rates 70 percent by 2015. KHON2.

The majority of testimony at a public hearing Monday was in opposition to a Board of Water Supply proposal to increase water rates by 70% over the next five years. Hawaii News Now.

The owners of Turtle Bay Resort are advancing a new expansion plan for the North Shore property that represents a scaled-back version of a previous owner's plan. Star-Advertiser.

Forty per cent of the units at the state’s Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui – 71 of 184 apartments - have been vacant for extended periods of time ranging from months to more than five years, according to interviews and property records. Hawaii Reporter.

The Days Inn-branded Maui Oceanfront Inn, home of Sarento's on the Beach, could be the latest Hawaii hotel to hit the auction block as part of a bankruptcy reorganization. Star-Advertiser.

A marijuana trial got off to a rocky start Monday after prospective jurors were handed fliers featuring the face of jailed pot activist Roger Christie. Tribune-Herald.

If there's a heaven, Lionel "Buddy" Azevedo is on his way there to make sure it's built right. West Hawaii Today.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. has proposed another sister-city relationship with a foreign municipality. Garden Island.

Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich spoke about his core values to about 150 applauding TEA Party of Maui members Saturday during a brief campaign tour of Hawaii. Maui News.

Actors wanted for ‘A Jive Bomber’s Christmas’ at Kumu Kahua Theatre. Hawaii Independent.

Poet laureate praises Hawaii conservation, PUC gets earful on biofuel surcharge, Honolulu spruces up for APEC, DNC blasts Case for leaking poll results, Maui realtors tangle over sign laws, Hawaii County Building goes 100% solar, Abercrombie visits Hilo, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie courtesy photo

Everywhere Gov. Neil Abercrombie went on his whirlwind tour of Hilo on Tuesday, he received warm smiles, rapturous applause and vigorous handshakes. He also got a little taste of Big Isle stink eye from groups angered by the state's handling of the recently aborted contract negotiations with the public school teachers' union. Tribune-Herald.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has criticized former Congressman Ed Case for publicly releasing a private poll that shows U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, a fellow Democrat, trailing former Gov. Linda Lingle in a hypothetical matchup for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Clayton Hee has more money in his political war chest than the mayor of Honolulu and the governor, according to his latest campaign finance report. Civil Beat.

There’s still more than a year before the Aug. 11, 2012, primary election, but politicians are already jockeying for position. Pacific Business News.

The state Senate and state ethics director are in an escalating dispute over whether members of state task forces are restricted from lobbying. Star-Advertiser.

In addition to paying more for their share of health insurance, the rates for public employees will be going up 10 percent. KHON2.

Hawaii is forging ahead with clean energy developments that put the state on the leading edge of the nation’s - and perhaps the world’s - renewable energy efforts, according to Hawaii government officials. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii County officials on Tuesday unveiled the local government's newest electric source -- 1,275 photovoltaic panels that will produce up to 250 kilowatts when they're running at full capacity. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission got an earful Tuesday when it held a public hearing on an application to spread the cost of a proposed Ka'u biofuel refinery to electricity customers on Oahu and the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

The nation's poet laureate told a meeting of scientists and others involved in protecting Hawaii's natural resources that they're doing work of "desperate importance" as the world's species become extinct at an increasingly rapid rate. Associated Press.

It’s estimated that 80 to 90 percent of our food is imported. This is an alarming rate for our island state because any disruption to food supply lines would leave us with less than a week of food. Hawaii Independent.

The Aloun Farms human trafficking trial is less than two days into testimony and already it looks like the prosecution has dug itself a deep hole. Civil Beat.

Federal designation of new Big Island flood zones could force thousands of landowners to buy flood insurance and meet more-costly construction standards. Tribune-Herald.

Real estate agents on Monday said they understood why the county wanted to keep the public right of way free of signs but questioned why authorities were disposing of "open house" signs that were left up for just a few hours. Maui News.

Forget the red-carpet treatment. A more than $137 million makeover of Oahu's transportation and tourism infrastructure has turned the coming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting into more of a blacktop affair. Star-Advertiser.

A newly completed study estimates the City could save 10 million dollars in five years by merging the Honolulu Fire Department and the City Department of Emergency Services. Hawaii Public Radio.

Staff from Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore are planning to hold an open house next week to answer questions and take comments on ideas for managing the refuge. Associated Press.

Researcher suggests more specific ocean warnings. Hawaii News Now.

Close to 500 people lined Salt Lake Boulevard to wave signs in support of crime prevention programs.KITV4.

Wilcox Elementary now has a new greenhouse, made possible through a $77,945 Youth Advisory Board grant from State Farm Insurance. Garden Island.

The tiny Kalaupapa post office serves as the lifeline to its residents. However, United States Postal Service (USPS) budget deficits and decreased use of “snail mail” around the county have put that lifeline in jeopardy. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu preps for Western legislators, UPW mulls strike, Hawaii elevator inspections lag, Maui seeks pickup bed passenger ban, no homeless shuffle for APEC, Big Island removes military, students for redistricting, Senate seeks feedback on Twitter updates, more Hawaii news

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Honolulu has no intention of moving homeless people from Waikiki for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, but parks and sidewalks could be temporarily cleared for cleanup, a city official told a group of state legislators Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

With the international spotlight on Honolulu for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, the idea of creating "safe zones" for homeless people has become popular among some state lawmakers. Civil Beat.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum is scheduled to convene in Waikiki in about one hundred days. Hawaii Public Radio.

The expertise of the East-West Center and its importance in relations with the Asia-Pacific region will be on display as lawmakers from 13 Western states gather in Honolulu this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii has already spent $1.329 billion of the total $1.824 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds received to date, but just 2,046 jobs have been created. Hawaii Reporter.

With time running out for Congress to reach a deal on raising the debt limit, Gov. Neil Abercrombie began taking steps Thursday to ensure the state would be protected if the government is unable to meet its obligations. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie says he has a contingency plan if the federal debt crisis stops the flow of hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. spending here next week. Hawaii Reporter.

Three Hawaii Senate committees this past session participated in a pilot project to “tweet” updates and other information during committee hearings. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday said he is open to "adjustments or mediation" to resolve the contract impasse with the Hawaii State Teachers Association, but he says the state hasn't received any formal offer. Civil Beat.

The United Public Worker's Union, which is unhappy about proposed pay cuts, is voting on whether to authorize a strike. Hawaii News Now.

Blue collar workers represented by the United Public Workers union appear ready to play hardball in their contract negotiations with the state and the four counties. KHON2.

An art teacher from Kalani High School used his creative side to protest changes to teachers' pay as he marched in front of the state Capitol on Thursday. KITV4.

Most state and county workers in Hawaii saw a $45 to $250 drop in take-home pay this month because they are now paying a larger share of their health insurance costs. Star-Advertiser.

The next time you’re in a building with an elevator, you may want to consider taking the stairs. Garden Island.

Governor Neil Abercrombie Thursday announced Beth Giesting as the state's new Healthcare Transformation Coordinator.Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will make stops around the island during a visit to Maui on Friday and Saturday. Maui News.

The terms “renewable energy” and “energy efficiency”—previously catchwords for policy wonks at NGO’s and Bay Area progressives—have now entered the demotic as they have become necessary goals for our future environmental and financial survival. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning has scaled the first major regulatory hurdle to constructing a $250 million system to help downtown businesses cut their electricity bills. KITV4.

Unlike its state counterpart, the Hawaii County Redistricting Commission has agreed to leave nonresident military families and students out of its population counts when drawing new political maps. West Hawaii Today.

Maui Police, councilor seek to ban passengers in beds of pickups. Maui News.

The Hawaii County Wastewater Division is considering a sewer rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Under fire for mismanagement, George N. Crabbe, the manager of the Lihue Airport, has turned in his keys, airport ID and official cell phone, according to state transportation department employees. KITV4.

The Palace Theater and Hilo Downtown Improvement Association are presenting a "Town Hall Meeting" with Police Chief Harry Kubojiri and staff Thursday, Aug. 11 at the Palace. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii shark sightings up, Chinatown residents protest crime, Kauai honored for GIS work, Honolulu foreclosures down while buildings vacant, Big Island girds for furloughs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honeybee (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Beetles that pose a serious threat to honeybees have been detected on Maui and Molokai. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has not achieved the policy goal of aligning five of the state's major boards and commissions with his "A New Day in Hawaii" agenda, but the governor said Wednesday he still believes he took the right approach in asking former Gov. Linda Lingle's appointees to resign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public schoolers return to the classroom on Monday, but their teachers have already been there for days and weeks — in some cases months. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island households spend roughly six percent of their income on electricity, which is nearly three times the national average of two percent. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie unveiled the first charging station for electric vehicles in a state owned building Monday. Hawaii News Now.

A coalition of health and human services agencies conducted its annual meeting today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Dozens of people fed up with crime in Chinatown joined forces Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

How well do you know your Public Utilities Commission? Hawaii Independent.

The County of Kaua‘i was recognized for its recent work building technological systems that improve public safety efforts. Garden Island.

The Honolulu Reapportionment Commission deferred action on whether to include nonresident populations such as military members and their dependents in the overall island population count for the purposes of redistricting. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki will be center stage for activity surrounding November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, but the highest-profile meeting and finale of the seven-day event will take place about 25 miles away at Ko Olina. Star-Advertiser.

Jury selection for the trial of Aloun Farms Owners Michael Mankone Sou and Alec Souphone Sou began Wednesday with more than 100 potential jurors interviewed in U.S. District Court. Hawaii Reporter.

The state is seeking applications from landowners and local land trusts looking for funds to protect forested lands. Associated Press.

Foreclosures in the Honolulu metropolitan area decreased by more than 30 percent during the first six months of the year, according to new statistics from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News.

Dozens of highly visible commercial properties are sitting vacant in Honolulu and Waikiki. KITV4.

While recorded confirmed shark sightings show an uptick, one researcher claims the only thing increasing is the community's presence and awareness. West Hawaii Today.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced Tuesday night at the end of a packed meeting that the county has selected a site for a youth drug treatment center on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Maui County finished the first half of 2011 with a gain of about 80,000 visitors, or 6.5 percent over January-June 2010. Maui News.

Two Hawaii County councilmen have cleared the decks for a potential Dominic Yagong-Billy Kenoi mayoral match-up next year. West Hawaii Today.

Another Hawaii County Environmental Management director bites the dust. Frank DeMarco, the mayor's second appointee to the post, is stepping down. West Hawaii Today.

On Maui, more than 20 dancers took part in a Tahitian dance flash mob. KHON2.

Most Hawaii County offices that serve the public will be closed on Friday, which will be the first county employee furlough day of the new fiscal year. Tribune-Herald.

The cost of living on the islands continues to rise as Young Brothers, Ltd. seeks to increase their shipping rates. Molokai Dispatch.

A sugar glider, a small marsupial that looks like a flying squirrel, was grounded Monday by Honolulu police. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii expects Japanese tourist rebound, direct flights to Mainland resume from Hilo, storms, sewage spill extend water warning, Tax Department hiring auditor, military comes a-calling, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Senate Districts (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

In an ideal world, Hawaii Island would emerge from the current reapportionment process with 3.82 seats in the state Senate and 7.79 seats in the House. West Hawaii Today.

Japanese visitors to Hawaii, the state’s biggest overseas market, should rebound to “normal” levels within a few months after a collapse following Japan’s March tsunami, according to Hawaiian Airlines. Star-Advertiser.

The murky waters stretching all along the windward coast has forced the state to issue a brown water advisory all the way from Waikane to Haleiwa Beach Park. Hawaii News Now.

More than 30,000 gallons of raw sewage spilled into Kaneohe Bay because of heavy rain Saturday and early Sunday, state health officials said. KITV4.

Just a few days after the U.S. Defense Secretary stopped in Hawaii, another high-profile visitor toured key military installations in the islands. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Taxation plans to hire an independent auditor to review its revenue reporting and accounting policies and procedures after systemic problems have been found in its reports. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Host Committee for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting has selected a company to design, produce and print signs and other materials for the event. Associated Press.

State attorneys are reviewing a campaign spending violation case to determine whether to file additional criminal charges against former City Councilman Rod Tam, who faces sentencing this week on charges of stealing city money. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayor Peter Carlisle is redecorating his office for $7,351. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council, for the most part following a blueprint from the administration of Mayor Peter Carlisle, has approved an array of new and higher fees for city facilities and services on Friday. KITV4.

A group of Molokai residents have banded together in hopes that a proposed wind farm on the island will blow away. Molokai Dispatch.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s five-hour member meeting on Saturday drew a large crowd prepared with questions and comments about the co-op’s plans to explore hydroelectricity. Garden Island.

Hundreds gathered at the Kahuku High Cafeteria on Wednesday, June 1 to testify on plans for a new hotel in the area that is part of the larger Envision Laie development. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaiian Telcom sent an email to employees Saturday morning saying as many as 100 union and nonunion jobs could be eliminated as part of the company's ongoing restructuring. Pacific Business News

While the Lahaina Gateway Center is headed for a foreclosure auction Wednesday, several business owners said they don't expect they'll be affected by the sale. Maui News.

The Hawaii County Council is considering an ordinance that would outlaw plastic check-out bags at Big Island businesses.West Hawaii Today.

After almost three decades, United Airlines returns to Hilo this week with direct flights to the mainland -- albeit under a slightly different banner than in years past. Tribune-Herald.

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.