Where's the GOP? Campaigns kick off after filing deadline, entire neighborhoods lost to lava, Gabbard signs book deal, Japanese royalty visits Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lava fills Kapoho Bay PC:USGS

Late Moves Shake Up Hawaii Races For Governor, Congress. While half of the state legislative seats have just one candidate in the primary, many others will be competitive. Civil Beat.

Isle GOP’s collapse makes primary critical. In a state where one party dominates as much as the Democrats do in Hawaii, the next 67 days of campaigning leading up to the primary will decide just about everything. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Cedric Gates, the youngest state legislator in Hawaii, thinks the best way to get young voters to the polls is to put them in office. Hawaii News Now.

Ed Case joins crowded race for Congress, but some see him as a front-runner. Former Congressman Ed Case kicked off his campaign for Congress on Tuesday by sign waving in east Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Former Democratic Congressman Ed Case has joined the race for the U.S. House of Representatives, an 11th-hour move that could shake up the contest for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa, who is competing to become Hawaii’s next governor. Star-Advertiser.

Former Congressman Ed Case, a native of Hilo and a graduate of Hawaii Preparatory Academy, is lacing up his running shoes after six years on the political sidelines. West Hawaii Today.

Tulsi Gabbard Is Writing A Book. The Hawaii congresswoman has signed with a high-profile literary agency that says it represents “presidential contenders.” Civil Beat.

Hawaii has the ninth-worst state economy in the nation, according to a WalletHub report, “2018’s Best & Worst State Economies,” released Monday. Star-Advertiser.

While Hawaii has the lowest unemployment rate in the nation, its overall economy is the ninth worst among all 50 states and the District of Columbia, according to a new report. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

This Sludge Pit Plan Gets Little Love In Manoa. Critics question why the state didn’t conduct an environmental review for the Manoa Stream dredging project. Civil Beat.

Coco Palms developer Chad Waters was cited by the Department of Health in late March for a reported environmental infraction at his Sound Investments LLC development on Oahu. Garden Island.

Lawsuit filed against Zippy's restaurants after data breach. Associated Press.

Ride-hailing service Uber sent emails to customers and drivers urging them to reach out to the Honolulu City Council and push back on a bill that would place more restrictions on the transportation network company and similar operations. Hawaii News Now.

Federal investigators say the single-engine aircraft that crashed in a mountainous area on Oahu, killing all four people on board last year, was over its weight limit when it took off. Associated Press.

The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii was full of hustle and bustle Tuesday in preparation for a morning visit by Prince Akishino, the second son of Japan’s Emperor Akihito, and his wife, Princess Kiko. Star-Advertiser.

Lime, the bike and scooter sharing company that created a stir in Honolulu before pulling out of the market, is raising about $250 million in a funding round led by Google Ventures. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

June 5 lava fountain PC:USGS

Gov. David Ige has signed a second emergency proclamation, focusing on housing needs and beefing up violations of emergency rules to criminal penalties during the ongoing Kilauea eruption. Star-Advertiser.

Big Isle mayor’s vacation home destroyed by lava, county confirms. Final confirmation came early this evening that Mayor Harry Kim’s Vacationland home has been destroyed, according to Hawaii island managing director Wil Okabe. Star-Advertiser.

After losing his Vacationland home the night before in the lava flow, Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim spoke to the public at the weekly meeting in Pahoa about the ongoing eruption. Big Island Video News.

A massive river of lava covered hundreds more homes overnight as it poured into the sea, filling all of Kapoho Bay and decimating entire neighborhoods. Hawaii News Now.

'Hang in people': Big Island Mayor Harry Kim offers words of encouragement to lava evacuees. Hawaii News Now.

Lava claims hundreds of Kapoho-area homes; destruction assessments continue. County agencies continued their assessments Tuesday of the destruction around Kapoho after most of Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland were buried by lava Monday night. Tribune-Herald.

Hundreds Of Additional Homes Lost To Lava. Most were in Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland. Meanwhile, lava has completely filled Kapoho Bay. Civil Beat.

Overflight Video: Lava Torches Hundreds of Homes. Big Island Now.

Kapoho Beach Lots and Vacationland Inundated with Lava. Hawaii Public Radio.

The lava flow that caused the sudden loss of Kapoho Bay in the past 48 hours has taken away properties, livelihoods and an iconic shoreline. Hawaii News Now.

Officials Create Housing Solutions for Displaced Residents. Big Island Now.

With lava from Fissure 8 pouring into Kapoho Bay, the current eruptive phase at Kilauea is pressing into its fifth week, and its effects are taking a toll. Hawaii Public Radio.

Lava from fissure 8 continued to fountain Tuesday night to heights consistent with those observed earlier in the day. Star-Advertiser.

A bill to regulate short-term rentals on Hawaii Island will get another go before the Hawaii County Planning Committee after more amendments were proposed on Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

After Eruption, Vacation Rental Bill Discussion Changes. The Hawaii County Council Planning Committee took up Bill 108, the day after lava destroyed almost all of Kapoho. Big Island Video News.

Expect a papaya shortage as lava destroys more farms. The Puna area is one of the largest producers of papayas. With farms there either destroyed or cut off by the lava, the price of the popular fruit could soon double. KHON2.

Along with the homes being destroyed, the latest lava flows have also cut off or covered cultural sites, important habitats and even popular recreation sites. KITV.

W.M. Keck Observatory officials on Monday notified the state Department of Health that they detected “a small seepage of oil” from the hydraulic system supporting the Keck I telescope and acted to contain the oil, according to a news release from the observatory. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii island’s housing prices soared in May, but the real estate market has taken a back seat to the daily drama affecting the livelihood of its residents. Star-Advertiser.

Sales of single-family homes on Hawaii’s Big Island fell 17 percent last month, compared to May 2017, but the median price of those homes jumped by 26 percent, while the median price of a Big island condominium soared 45 percent on 19 percent fewer sales. Pacific Business News.

Maui
There will be some changes to the paratransit fares and passes beginning July 1, according to Maui Economic Opportunity, which has the Maui County contract for the transportation service. Maui News.

Kauai

By Tuesday’s filing deadline, 24 candidates had officially filed to run for the Kauai County Council, while seven filed for the mayor’s seat. Garden Island.

A political forum featuring candidates for the lieutenant governor’s seat is set for Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Aqua Kauai Beach Resort. Garden Island.

Sales of single-family homes on Kauai declined in May, while sales of Garden Island condominiums grew and prices dropped, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service on behalf of the Kauai Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Lava takes more homes on trek to the sea, Case running for Congress, Hee bows out of gubernatorial race, councilman files ethics charge against Honolulu mayoral staff, more top news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ed Case and wife Audrey during 2012 campaign ©2018 All Hawaii News

Ed Case Prepares To Enter Hawaii Race For Congress. The former congressman pulled papers to run Monday, the day before the filing deadline. Civil Beat.

Former Hawaii Congressman Ed Case is again vying to serve in the House of Representatives. Hawaii News Now.

Former Congressman Ed Case files papers to run for U.S. House. KHON2.

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Longtime Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee and former state senator Clayton Hee is pulling out of the governor’s race due to financial considerations but is setting his sights on other political offices. Star-Advertiser.

Clayton Hee Withdraws From Hawaii Governor’s Race. The former state senator will instead seek his former legislative seat or make another bid for lieutenant governor. Civil Beat.

Kaniela Ing Faces More Campaign Finance Questions — This Time From Feds. Already accused of misspending state campaign funds, he now must answer to the Federal Election Commission regarding congressional campaign filings. Civil Beat.

Three landmark bills to combat climate change were signed into law today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. David Ige signs 3 bills combating climate change into law. Star-Advertiser.

The prince and princess of Japan are in Hawaii this week to mark the 150th anniversary of Japanese immigration to the islands. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Trevor Ozawa has filed an ethics complaint alleging that one of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s appointees used city resources to give Ozawa’s political rival a boost in the upcoming election. Star-Advertiser.

The Sierra Club of Hawaii criticized the state Department of Health on Thursday for its proposal to allow the Navy up to 20 years to upgrade underground storage tanks at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility. Star-Advertiser.

Audit: Honolulu Parks Could Save Millions By Reducing Potable Water Use. Water usage increased 13 percent over three years, and there are formal plans to install more nonpotable fixtures at city parks. Civil Beat.

Arizona retiree Tom Askland believed so much in the unique design of a proposed tour boat that he invested more than $100,000 in the prototype vessel and the affiliated company created to build, market and sell the concept to customers around the world. Star-Advertiser.

A 20-year-old man arrested for allegedly beating two Japanese tourists in a Kakaako park bathroom is charged with two counts of first-degree assault. Star-Advertiser.

Bikeshare Hawaii, the non-profit behind Honolulu’s Biki bikeshare program announced today it is conducting a nationwide search for a new executive director to replace Lori McCarney. Star-Advertiser.

Jim Leahey, who painted a vivid word picture of Hawaii sports for listeners over 60 years as the state’s most recognizable radio and television broadcaster, confirmed his retirement. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Lava Has Now Destroyed 117 Big Island Homes. New helicopter footage shows lava entering the ocean at Kapoho Bay. Associated Press.

Lava from Kilauea volcano consumed dozens of additional homes and a beloved island destination Monday as the flow filled in Kapoho Bay and destroyed Champagne Ponds. Tribune-Herald.

'No stopping it': Lava claims dozens of homes as it flows to the ocean. Hawaii News Now.

Lava Enters Ocean in Kapoho Bay. Hawaii Public Radio.

Laze Hazard: Ocean Entry Plume at Kapoho Laden with Hydrochloric Acid. Maui Now.

The county’s second highest-ranking official said there are people remaining in Kapoho who have refused to evacuate despite a large lava flow nearby. County Managing Director Wil Okabe said this morning he saw a picture of a guy “still working in his yard.” Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Civil Defense continues to coordinate the effort to evacuate, and in some cases rescue, the residents in the lava-inundated area of Kapoho, as Fissure 8 is sending a robust lava channel downslope to the ocean. Big Island Video News.

Two men arrested in unrelated incidents in areas of lower Puna inundated by lava made their initial appearances Monday in Hilo District Court. Tribune-Herald.

Website to centralize Big Island air quality reporting. Hawaii County, Hawaii County Civil Defense, the state Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency are working on a website where residents can check levels of sulfur dioxide being measured at air monitoring stations throughout Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

Vog continued to blanket West Hawaii on Monday and forecasters say the area is unlikely to see reprieve until Thursday, at the earliest. West Hawaii Today.

Volcano Byproducts Impact Solar Panels. Hawaii Public Radio.

Research says indoor plants improve air quality, combat vog. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to remain closed. West Hawaii Today.

Geothermal Plant And Its Neighbors Have Clashed For Decades. Lava flows threaten the plant’s destruction along with the property of many who have complained about the facility. Civil Beat.

Military’s Live-Fire Training Ignites Resistance From Some Big Island Neighbors. Pohakuloa Training Area, an Army-controlled site the size of Guam, is the largest U.S. military training ground in the Pacific. Civil Beat.

Maui

A pair of environmental groups filed suit Thursday to block a proposed Kahului sludge farm and power plant. Star-Advertiser.

The Sierra Club Maui Group and Maui Tomorrow are challenging Maui County and Anaergia Services’ proposed sludge farm and power plant along the Kahului shoreline by filing a lawsuit in Maui’s Environmental Court on Thursday. Maui Now.

Maui County has a set of old college dorms in mind for low-income housing. Star-Advertiser.


Kauai

The Kauai County Council approved an operating budget of $218 million for fiscal year 2018-19, while the Capital Improvements Project Budget is set at $40 million. Garden Island.

Concern for many of the issues facing Kauai is why Eleele resident Victoria Franks is running for the Kauai County Council. Garden Island.

Kauai Mayoral candidate Derek Kawakami opened his campaign headquarters on Rice Street on Friday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Rep. Tsuji dies of heart attack, Honolulu taxpayers to foot police chief's $150k legal bill, education administrators to get raises, school tax scuttled along rail line, windows to be barred at state mental hospital, tainted seaweed sold on Mainland and Tokyo, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rep. Clift Tsuji © 2016 All Hawaii News

State Rep. Clift Tsuji, a former disc jockey, banker and Big Island state lawmaker known for his warm personality and his deep, booming radio voice, died suddenly Tuesday at the Queen’s Medical Center after suffering a heart attack. He was 75. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Clift Tsuji died Tuesday at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, the House of Representatives said in a statement. He was 75. Tsuji’s son, Ryan Kalei Tsuji, said his father suffered a heart attack on Saturday, and died during heart surgery. Tribune-Herald.

Tsuji, Ige

Governor’s statement on the passing of Rep. Clift Tsuji.

Clift Tsuji, the longtime state representative for Hilo, passed away at the Queen’s Medical Center on Oahu today. He was 75. Big Island Video News.

State Rep. Clift Tsuji died Tuesday at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu. The Big Island lawmaker was 75. Civil Beat.

Big Island State Representative Clift Tsuji has died, according to family members. He was 75. KITV.
================
Maui County state Rep. Joe Souki has retained his post as speaker of the House for the 2017 legislative session that gets under way in January, according to a news release from the House on Monday. Maui News.

The Board of Education approved merit-based raises averaging 3.5 percent Tuesday for nearly two dozen senior Department of Education executives. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Failed To Take Steps Meant To Prevent Day Care Deaths. State officials promised lawmakers they’d draft new rules to protect infants, but more than three years later nothing’s changed. Civil Beat.

State looks to install bars over windows at Hawaii State Hospital. KHON2.

Ed Case, a former congressman who is the senior vice president and chief legal officer of Outrigger Enterprises Group, has joined the board of directors of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. Pacific Business News.

James Takushi, who headed the state’s personnel and human resources departments under three Hawaii governors and was a one-time key lieutenant for Democratic Party of Hawaii , died Monday at his Alewa home, his family said in a release. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

A Honolulu City Council committee gave preliminary approval Tuesday for up to $150,000 to hire three sets of outside attorneys to represent Police Chief Louis Kea­loha in four cases against him and the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

City attorneys asked a federal judge Tuesday to reject a request for a deposition of Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in a lawsuit over the police killing of Sheldon Haleck, a military veteran who died in front of Iolani Palace last year. Civil Beat.

Responding to what was described as overwhelming community responses, the Honolulu Police Department said Tuesday that it has added more offenses, including violent ones, to its online crime mapping site. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department announced today that its Crime Mapping Website is fully operational, including data on violent crimes. Hawaii Public Radio.

Of the 16,000 arrests made on Oahu last year, 61 percent involved people who were severely mentally ill or abusing drugs, according to the Honolulu Police Department. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu ranks among the worst in the nation when it comes to dealing with the homeless, that's according to a new national report. KITV.

Citing concerns about hindering affordable-housing developments, a Board of Education committee Tuesday tabled a proposal that called for charging builders of new homes more than $9,000 per unit to help pay for new schools in urban Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Kahuku sea asparagus and ogo that may be tainted with salmonella went to retailers and farmers’ markets across Hawaii as well as customers as far as Washington state and Tokyo. Star-Advertiser.

There will be more time to comment on a California wind-energy developer’s proposed $90 million-plus wind farm on Oahu’s North Shore. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

More than two years after the County Council approved a public access trail as a condition of allowing development of a luxury subdivision, council members learned Tuesday the deal is not yet finalized. West Hawaii Today.

The state Land Board is urging the state Supreme Court to quickly dismiss an appeal by opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope. Associated Press.

Faith-based groups rally for West Hawaii summit to fight homelessness. West Hawaii Today.

Enrollment at Hawaii Community College - Palamanui has grown significantly after one full school year on the new campus. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Gov. David Ige signed an extension to the emergency proclamation originally signed on Sept. 16, to provide relief for disaster damages, losses and suffering following September’s heavy rains and flooding on Maui. Maui Watch.

There’s new movement on plans to restore the Old Maui High School. Hawaii Public Radio.

New program seeks to bring CPR training to county’s high schools. Maui News.

Kauai

An update on the auction and relocation of the police substation at Kapaa Beach Park will be discussed during the Kauai County Council meeting today. Garden Island.

Michael Fleiss, creator of the hit ABC television series “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette,” is the buyer of Julia Roberts’ Hawaii oceanfront estate, Pacific Business News has learned.

Sea levels rising, politicians spending, anti-tobacco money cut, Turtle Bay expansion to increase traffic jams, Maui fines ukulele fest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii shoreline (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Scientists are predicting the ocean could rise by as much as a foot in the Hawaiian Islands by 2050 and that droughts may become more frequent on leeward sides of the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Linda Lingle, Ed Case and Mufi Hannemann were considered among Hawaii's most polished and accomplished politicians. While varied factors contributed to their defeats, the common denominator — overwhelming rejection by voters — has severely weakened them as viable contenders. Star-Advertiser.

What does it take to win a Hawaii congressional seat? The latest campaign spending reports due last week show the winning candidates each raised and spent more than $1 million to capture the vote. Civil Beat.

The FBI has ended its year-long investigation of Hawaii school bus companies for possible collusion in setting prices. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is spending less this year on tobacco prevention, which has knocked its national ranking from third to fifth for its efforts to prevent kids from smoking. Pacific Business News.

A new state law is providing a two-year window for victims of child sexual abuse to sue for damages, no matter how long ago the abuses occurred in Hawaii. Maui News.

Oahu
Kirk Caldwell and the Super PAC that supported him spent more than $5 million to win this year’s Honolulu mayoral election – tripling the expenditures of losing candidate Ben Cayetano, according to reports filed today with the state Campaign Spending Commission. Hawaii Reporter.

A proposed major expansion of Turtle Bay Resort is expected to add thousands of cars to the road and make the traffic situation significantly worse along the two-lane highway that fronts some of Hawaii’s most famous beaches, according to a new environmental study of the project. Civil Beat.

An Idaho skilled nursing company is under contract to purchase a 2.4-acre property in Aina Haina for a rehabilitation facility. Star-Advertiser.

Kenyan first among nearly 26,000 in Honolulu Marathon. Hawaii News Now.

The world's largest commercial aircraft  touched down in Honolulu on Sunday. Hawaiian Airlines said Airbus, the jetliner manufacturer, is pitching them to buy the plane. KITV4.

Hawaii

Mayor Billy Kenoi spent $21.50 for each vote he garnered in his re-election bid, more than twice what was spent per vote in a contentious Honolulu mayoral race, according to final campaign spending reports filed Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

State public safety officials are moving to reopen Hawaii island's Kulani Correctional Facility, which was shut down in 2009, with some 160 inmates scattered elsewhere. Star-Advertiser.

Cheryl “Quack” Moore was raising the roof over a new roof at the Palace Theater last week. After a 10-year effort, the much-needed project was finally under way at the 87-year-old landmark. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County has issued a $5,000 fine against the organizers of the first Paia Ukulele Festival, held Nov. 24 on oceanfront property off Hana Highway at the Johnny B's Burgers location. Maui News.

Since Danny and Buck Boren of Maui launched the first commercial zip line tour in the United States a decade ago on the slopes of Hale­akala, the concept has literally taken off across the island chain and the country. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Without an explanation and with a comment short of an apology, the owner of Kealia Properties LLC withdrew his request to extend two subdivision permits to more than 2,000 acres of prime agricultural land across Kealia Beach. Garden Island.

Kelvin Moniz, the Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank Food Resources director, estimated the Kalaheo Elementary School food drive yielded between 400 to 500 pounds of food Friday morning. Garden Island.

Molokai

On the Nov. 6 general election ballots, Maui County residents voted in favor of an initiative that makes it easier for residents of remote communities like Molokai to give their testimony during county council meetings held in Wailuku. Molokai Dispatch.

U.S. Senate candidates face off in Honolulu, campaign in Hilo, mixed economic forecast, Big Island zipline maker at fault, Japan won't dump radioactive waste in Northern Marianna Islands, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

Ed Case, Mazie Hirono

U.S. Senate candidates squared off today in the first of only five debates between the Democrats. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono on Tuesday said easing visa restrictions for Chinese visitors could fuel tourism in Hawaii, but former U.S. Rep. Ed Case, who also favors the legislation, said the bill's lack of prog­ress in Congress suggests Hirono is not effective. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case did not wait terribly long to try and score debating points against Mazie Hirono at a candidate forum Tuesday on tourism. Civil Beat.

It was a first for the candidates vying for U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka's seat. Tuesday, they participated in a forum together at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. KHON2.

Linda Lingle

There aren’t many Republicans in the Democratic stronghold known as Hilo, but almost 200 came out Tuesday for the headquarters grand opening and birthday bash for former Gov. Linda Lingle, the GOP candidate for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Democratic Sen. Daniel Akaka. West Hawaii Today.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle mingled among her East Hawaii supporters at the opening of her Hilo headquarters. Tribune-Herald.


The state Council on Revenues on Tuesday kept a 12 percent growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends June 30, but lowered the revenue projection for next fiscal year, which will prompt the Abercrombie administration to scale back state spending. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Council on Revenues on Tuesday kept its revenue growth projection for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30, at 12 percent. Pacific Business News.

The Council on Revenues revised its State General Fund revenue forecast today…with mixed reviews on what to expect in the months and years ahead. Hawaii Public Radio.

A 2011 state law meant to generate as much as $220 million in new tax revenues has fallen far short of target, causing the state Council on Revenues today to forecast a 2.2% drop in next year’s total tax take. Hawaii Reporter.

The Council on Revenues forecasts the state has about $100 million less to work with next year. KHON2.

Japanese investors appear to have abandoned plans to dump millions of tons of debris from last year's tsunami disaster on a pristine island in the Northern Mariana Islands. Civil Beat.

State roundup for May 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

A federal review completed last month found Honolulu has improved its city bus and Handi-Van services since their last federal evaluation three years ago, but there's still work to be done. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Peter Carlisle said Tuesday that his support for the city's rail proj­ect is "unequivocal," drawing a brighter line than former managing director Kirk Caldwell, who has called for a review of the proj­ect's station locations, architecture and visual impact. Star-Advertiser.

Anthony Guerrero Jr., a retired vice chairman of First Hawaiian Bank   and chairman of the board of Oahu Transit Services, has joined the board of Move Oahu Forward, a group of Honolulu business leaders who support the city’s rail transit project. Pacific Business News.

Officials have set their sights on Hawaii's military housing for a new program they hope will cut energy waste and save the government nearly a half-million dollars a year in electricity costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Seven candidates for Hawaii County Council on the Big Island are taking advantage of public financing through a three-election-year pilot program in its second year. Civil Beat.

South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford has big plans for the site of a new community college at Palamanui. West Hawaii Today.

Tradewinds Forest Products LLC recently started harvesting eucalyptus trees planted in Hamakua in the late-1990s to send to Asia. West Hawaii Today.

The builder of a zip line course in Paukaa near Hilo, where one worker was killed and a co-worker critically injured when a tower collapsed Sept. 21, failed to ensure ground anchors and a guy cable system could support the weight of a tower, zip lines and human riders, the state said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The state has accused the builder of an East Hawaii zip line platform that collapsed last year, killing a construction worker, of serious violations of workplace safety laws.Tribune-Herald.

Richard Crowe, co-founder of the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s astronomy program and astronomer-in-residence at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, was killed Sunday in a bizarre Jeep accident near Chinle, Ariz. He was 60. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie released $250,000 for the Nahiku Community Center. Maui News.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said "the true test of our patriotism" is taking care of our soldiers in battle and at home. Maui News.

Kauai

The Hanalei Watershed Hui is inviting the public to a  June 6 meeting to address what is going on with Hanalei Bay Watershed. Garden Island.

It couldn’t have started in a worse place, said a volunteer who helped fight a brush fire in a remote area in the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve Monday. Garden Island.

Case and Hirono tied in U.S. Senate poll, Hawaii libraries to get wi-fi, Legislature tinkering with civil union law, Caylee's Law coming to Hawaii, Jeff Corwin dives Kona coast, Maui could get state's biggest outlet mall, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo Public Library (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Wi-Fi will soon be available at libraries across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case and Mazie Hirono are in a dead heat for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Daniel Akaka, according to a new Civil Beat Poll. Civil Beat.

The automated telephone survey of 1,358 likely voters found Case at 41 percent, Hirono at 39 percent, with 8 percent saying neither candidate and 12 percent still unsure.

Hawaii may soon join dozens of other states in banning lawmakers from holding political fundraisers during the four months the Hawaii Legislature is in session under a new proposal. Civil Beat

Legislative "fixes" to the civil unions law that took effect this year are working their way through the Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers have introduced a host of bills in the new legislative session aimed at keeping pace with Hawaii's rapidly evolving energy sector, including one proposal that would force Hawaiian Electric Co. out of the power generation business and have it focus strictly on delivering electricity to customers. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly one-third of Hawaii's 256 public schools will use revamped teacher evaluations next school year in a pilot program that will take into account student academic growth, amid concerns from teachers over how the new rating system eventually will be tied to their pay. Star-Advertiser.

Parents and guardians who fail to report missing children could face felony charges under a bill before the Hawaii Senate. KITV4.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Friday released more than $15.6 million for capital improvement projects statewide that are designed to improve the state’s public safety, wastewater, civil defense and communications infrastructure. Pacific Business News.

The possibility of another big northwest swell has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a High Surf Warning that will take effect Monday at 6 a.m. Hawaii News Now.

"Living in the Moment:" New campaign launches to market Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

State roundup for Jan. 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

As contract expires, many hope Pro Bowl will stay in Hawaii. KHON2.

Cayetano: Rail A Wall of Concrete Snaking Along Honolulu's Waterfront. Civil Beat.

Prostitution Bust At University of Hawaii Professor's Apartment following website' sting. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii

The decision to fire four Hawaii County elections workers may soon start costing Big Island taxpayers. Tribune-Herald.

The waters off the Kona Coast are teeming with life, a sign world-renowned animal expert Jeff Corwin said Sunday is hopeful and encouraging. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A California developer wants to begin construction this spring on a shopping center that would be the largest outlet mall in Hawaii. Maui News.

The Maui County Council General Plan Committee will conduct an informational meeting this week on the urban-growth boundaries being proposed in the draft Maui Island Plan. Maui News.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii filed a complaint letter with the County of Maui this week citing concerns over First Amendment rights of protesters demonstrating near the Monsanto facility along the Pi’ilani Highway in Kihei. Maui Now.

Kauai

State Sen. Ron Kouchi, D-Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, said the March 24 election of board members of the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative will have a “tremendous impact” on diversifying the future economic base of the island. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i volunteers spotted more whales than their counterparts on Hawaii’s other islands during a weekend ocean count coordinated by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Garden Island.

Molokai

Department of Land and Natural Resources is holding a community meeting regarding the security perimeter at the Kauanakakai Wharf to accommodate American Safari Cruises visits to Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

GOP Lingle almost triples fund-raising of closest rival Hirono, UH prof caught in x-rated escort sting, Education leaders detail plans, HGEA grumbles about contract, emergency contraception bill advances, appeals court upholds Mauna Kea plan, Maui's Papapawahawa Bridge opens Friday, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle

Former Gov. Linda Lingle, in a display of national fundraising prowess, has raised more than $1.7 million since she announced her Republican campaign for the U.S. Senate in October. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii may not be known for its Republicans, but the first fundraising figures out of former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle's campaign for U.S. Senate shows that Republicans are committed to changing the balance of power in the aloha state. Civil Beat.

Former Congressman Ed Case said in a statement that he raised “substantially less” money last quarter than U.S. Senate opponents Linda Lingle and Mazie Hirono. Civil Beat

State education leaders sought to reassure lawmakers Wednesday about the future of Hawaii's $75 million Race to the Top grant, saying they are making gains and plan to seek more clarity about the kind of progress federal authorities want to see in order to take the grant off "high-risk" status. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Education leaders described the state's school district as a deteriorating house at a legislative briefing Wednesday, and their Race to the Top plan as the remodeling program for that house. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's public schools superintendent said Wednesday she hopes the state makes headway on adopting new teacher evaluations by the end of March, when U.S. Department of Education officials are scheduled to visit the islands for an update on the state's progress with Race to the Top reforms. Associated Press.

Taken For A Ride: Roberts Hawaii's Very Own Race to the Top of School Bus Biz. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Government Employees Association officials have told PBN they may file a complaint with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board because Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s administration has failed to advance talks regarding the favored nation clause of the union’s contract. Pacific Business News.

The state appeals court has upheld the approval of a University of Hawaii-developed management plan for Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

The House Committee on Judiciary passed a measure (House Bill 127 House Draft 1) that would require hospitals and health care providers to provide information about emergency contraception to women who have been sexually assaulted, and to dispense the medication when requested. Hawaii Reporter.

It’s difficult to tell how many people experience homelessness. Nevertheless a national count is done at this time every year attempting to measure how many people are without homes. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for Jan. 26. Associated Press.

Oahu

An x-rated local escort service called “The Volcano Girls” is being operated out of the Waikiki residence of University of Hawaii Professor Lawrence W. Boyd, Jr. Hawaii Reporter.
http://www.hawaiireporter.com/university-of-hawaii-professor-tied-to-x-rated-escort-service/123

Food trucks and lunch wagons would have two hours to operate at one location on a street before being required to move, under a proposal in the City Council that aims to ease a law that made it difficult for some vendors to operate legally. Star-Advertiser.

A bill that would allow lunch wagons and other street vendors to remain at a single location for two hours instead of fifteen minutes passed the first of three required readings Wednesday at the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

The principal at August Ahrens Elementary School, a second school administrator and a teacher have been placed on leave while the state Department of Education investigates an allegation of financial impropriety. Star-Advertiser.

North Shore residents demand solution to 'Turtle Beach' traffic. Hawaii News Now.

The city has spent more than $1.87 million and hired seven private law firms to handle legal work related to its rail project. Star-Advertiser.

The State Department of Agriculture says road crews working on Nimitz Highway near Honolulu Airport killed a two foot snake Wednesday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Tourism Authority has approved spending more than $1 million this year for Big Island programs, sporting events and festivals. Tribune-Herald.

After sitting fallow for the last 18 years, 718 acres of Hawaii County's Paauilo lands are closer than ever to being returned to productive agriculture. Tribune-Herald.

An illegal ferret was captured early Sunday morning in the parking lot of Coqui's Hideaway Restaurant & Sports Bar in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.


Maui

Of the three options for repairing the main runway at Kahului Airport, the most expensive was overwhelmingly preferred at a standing-room-only public meeting Monday, because it would not require a temporary shutdown of Mainland flights. Maui News.

Project challenges several layers thick. Maui News.

The new Papapawahawa Bridge in East Maui opens this Friday, January 27, 2012, following eight months of construction. Maui Now.

A $2.3 million project to replace Papahawahawa Bridge is nearly complete, the county Department of Public Works announced. Maui News.

Maui County officials say they are in the process of closing a three-mile stretch of shoreline near Wailea-Makena after a shark sighting Wednesday afternoon. KITV4.

Kauai

How can the Garden Isle grow green jobs? Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. and other local leaders Wednesday greeted the first planeload of visitors from Shanghai as part of an effort to increase island visits from China. Garden Island.

Election maps won't be ready in time, Hirono raises big bucks, Hawaii foreclosures halved, teachers to continue pay cut, 3-way Honolulu mayoral race heats up, papayas bound for Japan, Hawaii County fires election workers, Kauai grapples green waste, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and Sen. Daniel Akaka campaign photo

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono raised more than $624,000 during the past three months for her Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, her campaign announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case said Wednesday that he would bridge a "yawning chasm" between business and government, describing government as too intrusive and an obstacle to economic growth. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle said Tuesday that she would work with members of both parties if elected to the U.S. Senate, but also said Hawaii would benefit from having a Republican in its congressional delegation. Maui News.

Maps for new House and Senate districts are not likely to be ready by Feb. 1, the day when candidates can begin filing for elective offices. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii teachers will see 5 percent pay cuts lifted after two years in exchange for annual evaluations and performance-based pay, if they ratify their tentative agreement with the state. Civil Beat.

Public school teachers would continue to take a 5 percent pay cut under a proposed contract but would move to a new salary schedule and evaluation system in July 2013 and would be eligible for annual pay raises based on their performance. Star-Advertiser.

Facebook and Twitter could become the virtual town square for spirited public debate if the state’s public information watchdog agency has its way. The Office of Public Information Practices has submitted two legislative proposals to Gov. Neil Abercrombie to be included in his administration’s package for the coming session, which begins next week. Civil Beat.

Rewards of up to $30,000, the largest of their kind in Hawaii, are being offered for confidential tips that lead to the arrest and conviction of whoever killed three critically endangered Hawaiian monk seals on Molokai and Kauai since November. Star-Advertiser.

The number of foreclosures in Hawaii dropped by half last year as lenders grappled with a state law that changed the way they could file nonjudicial foreclosures, according to new data from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News.

Local Oil Expert Questions Hawaii’s Renewable Energy Market. KITV4.

Hawaii's papaya industry is now exporting the genetically engineered Rainbow papaya to Japan after the Japanese government approved commercial shipment of the fruit on Dec. 1. Tribune-Herald.
http://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/sections/news/local-news/papayas-shipped-japan.html

Hawai’i small business owners participated in their 36th annual conference today on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for January 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

A looming three-way race for Honolulu mayor poses a dilemma for voters, who could be forced to choose between allegiance to political party or their position on the biggest public works project in the city's history. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano is considering a run for Honolulu mayor at age 72 for one main reason: to stop the rail project. Civil Beat.

A historic downtown building with a storied past may have a new chapter ahead in the arts, and it could have State departments on the move. KHON2.

A former Hawaii Pacific University administrative assistant was sentenced to five years probation for stealing more than $13,000 in school parking fees. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Hawaii County has fired four elections workers, including the program administrator, following an investigation into alcohol storage and private business activities allegedly conducted at a Hilo elections warehouse. Tribune-Herald.

China and India are catapulting to the forefront of astronomy research with their decision to join as partners with the Thirty Meter Telescope, which will be the world's largest when it's built later this decade. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Board of Education has agreed to hear an appeal by organizers of the Laupahoehoe charter school, who claim that their charter has effectively been revoked by the school's oversight body. Tribune-Herald.

The Kealakehe Elementary School library will soon get air conditioning, and other Big Island schools will see other maintenance projects begin, after Gov. Neil Abercrombie released $14.2 million for capital improvement projects. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Former Hawaii governor Linda Lingle (R) began the first official day of her campaign for a seat in the US Senate by visiting some local businesses in the Haiku Cannery on January 10, 2012. Maui Now.

The Maui Planning Commission decided Tuesday that former interior designer Xorin Balbes can follow his dream after putting everything he has into renovating Makawao's Fred Baldwin Memorial Home to turn it into the Lumeria Maui educational retreat. Maui News.

Kauai

Two nonprofit organizations and an anonymous donor have teamed up to offer a reward of up to $30,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the suspected slayings of at least three Hawaiian monk seals in the past two months. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County officials are urging the public to remove green waste from plastic bags when delivering them to green waste drop sites at a county transfer station or the Kekaha Landfill. Garden Island.

Hawaii Super PACs begin fundraising, Hirono-Case Senate campaign heats up, Honolulu enforces smoking ban, Supreme Court may hear Hawaiian preference lawsuit, Kilauea Volcano leaves last man standing, Hawaii bond critics fear negative arbitrage, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono and Sen. Daniel Akaka courtesy photo

Rep. Mazie Hirono’s campaign for U.S. Senate is releasing the results of a new poll that shows the Democratic congresswoman with an 18-point lead over Democratic rival and former Congressman Ed Case. Civil Beat.

Former Congressman Ed Case: If Hirono Wins U.S. Senate Democratic Primary, Former GOP Gov. Lingle Will Beat Her. Hawaii Reporter.

Campaigns for next year's elections are getting under way and Hawaii is already seeing the formation of special political committees that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of campaign money. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Supreme Court could announce as early as today whether the justices will review a case that could produce a landmark ruling on the legality of government benefits to Native Hawaiians under the Constitution's equal protection clause. Star-Advertiser.

Within the first minutes of the new year, clergy and judges may register online to perform civil unions, and within a short time will be able to unite same-sex couples in a legal relationship that grants them the same rights as married couples for the first time in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

In less than a month, same-sex couples in Hawaii will become eligible for civil union status under a new law signed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie in February. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Hurricane Relief Fund and Rainy Day Fund are supposed to be tapped only in true emergencies, such as a tsunami or hurricane. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii’s media monopoly and the struggle for democracy. Hawaii Independent.

Go Mokulele is returning to normal schedule Monday, three days after its fleet was grounded. KHON2.

Google is spending several hundred million dollars to build a data center in Hong Kong and has plans to follow that up with two other Asian locations. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for Dec. 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

More international visitor arrivals boosted occupancy and room rates on Oahu to near record levels for October as the performance of hotels statewide improved. Star-Advertiser.

For those hunkered down at the Occupy Hono­lulu encampment at the edge of Thomas Square, disenchantment with the direction in which government and corporate institutions have taken the world comes with an unwavering sense that their movement can improve the situation. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time in more than four years, a Honolulu police officer has issued tickets to bar patrons for breaking the statewide smoking ban. KITV4.

A plan that will serve as a guide to the state as it moves forward restoring Kawainui Marsh is starting to take shape. KITV4.

Before many of us were even up Sunday, thousands hit the road in the 39th annual Honolulu Marathon. KHON2.

Hyatt Hotels Corp. has opened the first of two towers at its new Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach hotel. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Jack Thompson, 61, is the last resident of Royal Gardens, the subdivision that has been inundated by lava since 1983. Tribune-Herald.

On Jan. 10, 1976, Allen Castro, 25, and Danny Robinson, 21, met for the first time. Love quickly blossomed. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Severed fiber optics cable disrupts communication on Maui. KHON2.

Runoff from heavy rain has prompted state health officials to issue a Brown Water Advisory for Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of State Parks announced Friday it auctioned all of the 16 available recreational cabin lots in Koke‘e and Waimea Canyon state parks in the first scheduled tier of the auction held Thursday at the Kaua‘i War Memorial in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

The earthquake and tsunami that rocked Fukushima Prefecture last March not only tragically devastated its small villages, it swept a legacy of junk into the Pacific Ocean. Garden Island.

Army tests hypersonic weapon from Kauai, Hawaii economy limping along, state looks at regulating reef fish collecting, suicide rates up, APEC hosts' data stolen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hypersonic weapon, military courtesy photo

The Army on Thursday conducted its first flight test of a new weapon capable of traveling five times the speed of sound. Associated Press.

Hawaii's economy is expected to limp along with slow growth through 2012, economist Leroy Laney said Thursday in a forecast dampened by global economic woes. Star-Advertiser.

Suicide Rates in Hawaii Climb. Hawaii Public Radio.

Politico: Hawaii Senate Race Not Toss-Up. Civil Beat.

State lawmakers didn’t support a statewide ban on the sale of aquarium fish this session but the issue isn’t going away. KITV4.

The collection and sale of reef fish for aquariums is an industry that averages about $395,000 a year on Oahu... And provides jobs for about 40 commercial fishers - 15 are full-time. KHON2.

The breakthrough ceded land settlement announced by the Abercrombie administration on Wednesday is the brainchild of two Honolulu attorneys with extensive experience in commercial litigation. Civil Beat.

In another rejection of Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s position on the secrecy of judicial nominations, the state Judicial Selection Commission has decided to make public the names of all candidates for judicial appointment submitted to the governor and the Hawaii Supreme Court chief justice. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

Honolulu's ban on keeping personal possessions on sidewalks is one step closer to becoming law, but in many ways the fight has just begun. Civil Beat.

Members of Honolulu's APEC Host Committee who represent some of Hawaii's biggest companies and institutions have been told their personal information may have been stolen after security clearances were requested for them to meet with President Barack Obama Saturday night during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. Star-Advertiser.

The family of a Kailua man shot to death in a Waikiki fast-food restaurant filed a lawsuit Thursday against a State Department special agent charged with murder in the case. Star-Advertiser.

Defense attorney: federal agent charged with murder acted in self-defense. Hawaii News Now.

City Plans To Open Access To Popular North Shore Beach. KITV4.

A City Council committee advanced permit requests for the $760 million expansion of the Hilton Hawaiian Village but asked property owners to try to work out differences before the measure comes up for a final vote next month. Star-Advertiser.

A city employee and a driving instructor conspired to create at least three fraudulent driver's licenses that were sold to foreign nationals who were in the United States illegally, according to an indictment returned Wednesday by a federal grand jury. Star-Advertiser.

The State Land Use Commission will continue its hearings today on D.R. Horton‘s proposed “Ho‘opili” development in Honouliuli. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

The Leeward Planning Commission signed off on proposed changes to the special management area rules Thursday morning. West Hawaii Today.

On Thursday, students at Waiakea Intermediate School gathered on the covered courts at the rear of the campus during their recess period to sign pledges to remain tobacco free, play games aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle, and to learn more about the dangers associated with smoking. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Security officials at Kahului Airport have a new body scanner that doesn't project invasive body images but is sensitive enough to detect a plastic bag in a jean pocket. Maui News.

The Maui County Council Land Use Committee voted 6-2 Wednesday evening to recommend approval of the Kahoma Residential Subdivision, a fast-track, all-affordable housing project in West Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

A Hawai‘i Army National Guard soldier died Wednesday afternoon while on duty in the vehicle maintenance shop of the Hanapepe Armory. Garden Island.

The disappearance of the corn maze from the Kaua‘i Halloween scene gave birth to an idea which blossomed into a community success. Garden Island.

Molokai

Castle & Cooke's Rumbaoa to Head Molokai Ranch. Molokai Dispatch.