Waikiki tourism nears record, no-bid education contract disputed, Gabbard charges Hannemann with campaign violation, Hawaii tour company lacked permit for area where teen swept out to sea, Japan tsunami debris halfway to Hawaii, electric rates dip, but still nation's highest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The resurgence in tourism has put Waikiki hotels on track for a record year. Star-Advertiser.

Reducing, Reusing and Recycling in Hawaii, One Hotel at a Time. Civil Beat.

Should Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, (D-Hawaii) win the U.S. Senate election this November, she will help select Hawaii’s next federal judge. Hawaii Reporter.

The 2nd Congressional District race heated up Monday as City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard filed a complaint against former Mayor Mufi Hannemann, charging that he is not complying with federal election laws by failing to disclose all his expenditures, among other things. Star-Advertiser.

Gabbard Files FEC Complaint Against Hannemann. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is appealing a ruling ordering the state to pay nearly $70,000 in Honolulu Star-Advertiser attorney fees and costs after the newspaper prevailed in a lawsuit over the release of names of judicial finalists. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will sign into law a bill requiring drivers to move over when they're passing an emergency vehicle on a highway. Associated Press.

The College Board, a nonprofit that administers the college-entrance exam SAT, has taken issue with the state's plan to forgo competitive bidding and seek a sole-source contract with its competitor, Iowa-based ACT Inc. Star-Advertiser.

Residential electricity bills fell on all islands in July from June, the state's two power utilities reported Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Sperm Banks For Coral -- One Scientist's Unusual Plan To Save The Species. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii interisland airline go! is adding flights on three existing routes between Maui and Kauai, Honolulu and Maui and Honolulu and the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Sea Dragon crew finds Japanese boat halfway to Hawaii. KITV4.

State roundup for July 10. Associated Press.

Oahu

Mayor Peter Carlisle raised $198,000 toward his re-election bid during the first six months of 2012, according to a report filed Monday with the state Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii may be one of only two states that prohibit gambling — even bingo and lotteries — but casino-type video games at several Oahu stores have one longtime lawmaker concerned. Civil Beat.

Archers hope their message on Monday night hit the target. A popular range has been off-limits for months due to a stray arrow, but the city will soon decide whether it is safe to re-open the facility with some changes. Hawaii News Now.

SARS, antibiotic-resident tuberculosis, dengue fever and other infectious diseases could someday be diagnosed in a laboratory the UH wants to build. Hawaii News Now.

After much anticipation following last season's cliff-hanger, the cast and crew of Hawaii Five-0 is preparing for its third season. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii
The island’s three leading mayoral candidates agree on some things but disagree on others, including funding future health care costs for retirees, establishing open space at Ooma and handling the island’s trash situation, among others. West Hawaii Today.

The tour company that took a group of teenagers on a hike where a New York teen was swept out to sea didn’t have a permit to be in the tide pool area where the incident happened, State officials said Monday. Associated Press.

On their final day of searching Monday, fire rescue crews yielded no signs of a 15-year-old New York boy who was reportedly swept from the shoreline last week near Kealakekua Bay. West Hawaii Today.

A federal grant totalling more than $17 million to erect a new aircraft rescue and firefighting building is en route to Kona International Airport, state and federal officials said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii is getting a $17 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to build an aircraft rescue and firefighting building at the Kona International Airport on the Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Hawaii's Vanishing Voter: South Maui Is The Worst For Voter Turnout. Civil Beat.

Real estate data for Maui County for the first half year of this year "is really about the same" as the same period last year, according to a Realtors Association of Maui official. Maui News.

Curbside recycling will be coming to all of Maui Meadows and other parts of South Maui beginning with deliveries of two new colored carts Saturday. Maui News.

MECO’s 15% Solar Threshold Raises Questions. Maui Now.

Kauai

In preparation for road resurfacing in Kapa‘a, a Public Works crew will be doing roadside work in three Kapa‘a subdivisions — Kawaihau and Wai’ale’ale estates and Kapa‘a Meadows. Garden Island.

If you are still thinking about voting, now is the time to make up your mind. The primary election will be held Aug. 11, but the deadline to register to vote is this Thursday. Garden Island.

At 60 registered youth, the Hanalei Junior Lifeguard program was the biggest yet, said Bruce Stine, one of the program’s instructors, Monday. Garden Island.

Molokai

This coming weekend, the Moloka’i 4H Livestock Expo opens at the ball field in Kaunakakai. Hawaii Public Radio.

Census shows more Pacific Islanders, especially on the Mainland, Navy schedules huge RIMPAC exercise, Obama meets Hawaii Five-0, Hawaii technology 30 years behind, state to start hiring again, Superferries get new names, Kauai smart meters create fears, Maui loads ballot with charter amendments, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian performance (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The number of people reporting they are of Native Hawaiian and Pacific Island ancestry has jumped 40 percent over the last decade across the United States and by 28 percent in the state, according to new data from the Census Bureau. Star-Advertiser.

Data released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau seem to show a growing movement of Pacific peoples away from Hawaii and toward the U.S. West and South. Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders living in Hawaii grew by 25.9 percent between 2000 and 2010, compared to 40 percent nationwide. West Hawaii Today.

University of Hawaii school of Hawaiian knowledge Dean Maenette Benham is hopeful and optimistic about the latest numbers released by the U.S. census bureau. KITV4.

U.S. Census figures crunched by state officials say more than one-fifth of Hawaii residents identify as at least part Native Hawaiian. Hawaii News Now.

The Navy says more than 40 ships will be gathering in the Hawaiian Islands this summer for the world's largest naval exercises. Associated Press.

Twenty-two nations, 42 ships, six submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel will participate in the biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise scheduled for June 29 to Aug. 3 in and around Hawaii, the Navy said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama greeted "Hawaii Five-0" star Grace Park and spoke about growing up in Hawaii and his connection to Asian and Pacific Americans during a speech in Washington tonight. Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has transferred more than $875,000 since January 2011 to help keep the U.S. Senate under Democratic control. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s U.S. Senate race has local and national importance, Democratic candidate Ed Case told Rotary Club of Kona Mauka members Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii was one of four states to receive a failing grade on a new survey released by Thumbtack.com, which questioned company owners about their state’s friendliness toward small business. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii is mired in ineffective and inefficient paper-based, manual business processes with old technology," according to the strategic plan released Tuesday by the Office of Information Management and Technology. Civil Beat.

Since 1962, there has been only one override of a Democrat Governor’s veto. Hawaii Reporter.

After layoffs and hiring freezes the state is close to hiring again.  Lawmakers found money for nearly 100 state jobs this legislative session.  Many will go to depleted departments. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday announced the release of more than $37.5 million for various Capital Improvement Projects that address storm-related damage to highways and roadways, and to implement transportation safety improvements statewide. Garden Island.

Legislation before the governor could expand geothermal energy production across the state. Associated Press.

An increase in plastic debris floating in a zone between Hawaii and California is changing the environment of at least one marine critter, scientists reported. Associated Press.

The two high-speed ferries built for the shuttered Hawaii Superferry were renamed Tuesday by the vessels’ new owner — the U.S. Navy. Pacific Business News.

The former Hawaii Superferries Ala­kai and Hua­­kai have some new geography associated with their names. Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced Tuesday their new monikers: the USNS Guam and the USNS Puerto Rico. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc. posted another strong financial performance during the first three months of the year, bolstered by the third consecutive quarter of double-digit earnings increases at its electric company subsidiary. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. reported a first-quarter profit of $38.3 million, or 40 cents per diluted share, an increase of 34 percent compared to a profit of $28.5 million, or 30 cents per diluted share, for the same quarter in 2011. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii State Teachers Association President Wil Okabe has secured a second three-year term, fighting off a challenge from a member of his negotiations committee. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for May 9. Associated Press.

Oahu
The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation has made 150,000 pages of records related to the federal approval of the rail proj­ect available on the HART website. Star-Advertiser.

Early on in his tenure, Daniel Grabauskas told the Honolulu City Council that our rail project is "amazing" because there will be no long-term debt. Civil Beat.

Drilling for support columns for Honolulu’s 5.3 billion dollar elevated rail system continues this week in Ewa. Hawaii Public Radio.

City Comfort Stations, Playgrounds, Shut Down for Years, But Mayor 'Rushes to Build Rail,' Honolulu Council Members Say. Hawaii Reporter.

The city of Honolulu is putting up $3.5 million toward the purchase of a building in urban Hono­lulu that would serve as housing for homeless people with special needs, such as disabilities or mental illness. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle has announced a new transitional housing project geared specifically toward helping people with special needs. Civil Beat.

A nearly two-year project is about to get underway that'll affect drivers in the Pearl City and Aiea areas. KHON2.

Those who feared the damage from an undersea sewer line in Kaneohe are relieved, but other neighborhoods worry about the Oneawa tunnel project. KITV4.

Hawaiian Telcom crews will be working through the night after city crews accidentally cut one of their main fiber lines. KHON2.

Franz "Shiro" Matsuo, the ukulele-strumming founder of Shiro's Saimin restaurants, died Thursday. He was 93. Star-Advertiser.
 
Hawaii

At long last, it’s official: Hilo High School will break ground on its eagerly anticipated new gym early next month. Tribune-Herald.

It’s a different kind of county council — one in which high school students run the show. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
A Maui County Council committee Monday advanced its version of the county budget that would raise property taxes, reduce overtime in many county departments and offer up less borrowing through bonds than proposed by Mayor Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

Charter Commission members voted Monday to send 10 of its 11 proposed charter amendments to voters, in all but one case rejecting Maui County Council recommendations to delete proposals. Maui News.

The chairmen of the departments of Land and Natural Resources and Agriculture and Mayor Alan Arakawa will be attending the first ever Neighbor Island meeting of the Hawaii Invasive Species Council today, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Maui News.

The US Department of Agriculture designated Maui County as a primary natural disaster area due to losses caused by an ongoing drought. Maui Now.

Kauai

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Tuesday submitted his supplemental budget for Fiscal Year 2013. Carvalho’s revised proposal reflects an increase of $4.11 million in operational expenses and $2.56 million in capital improvement projects compared to his March 15 budget submittal. Garden Island.

When County Council Member Timothy Bynum’s case was dropped last Wednesday, it was clear that it took a special prosecutor from the State Attorney General less than a month to find that the Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney did not have a case to bring to court. Garden Island.

Workers at the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative have installed more than 300 meters on homes and businesses in Kapaa that allow the utility to monitor usage remotely and throughout the day. Within two years, the utility aims to replace all of the old meters with “smart meter" technology designed to help the utility smooth out power on the electric grid and add more renewable energy sources such as solar. Civil Beat.

The state is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to move hundreds of geese away from runways at the airport in Kauai. Associated Press.

Hawaii preps for Obama ohana, Kauai residents sue Pioneer GMO seed corn company, Abercrombie to release cautiously optimistic budget, union woes unending, PUC clears First Wind project for Oahu, Honolulu EMS racks $16M in OT, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea lava flows into sea USGS courtesy photo

Volcanologists on Tuesday mapped the newest ocean entry from the ongoing eruption of Kilauea volcano. Tribune-Herald.

Kailua residents began bracing for the possibility of a fourth consecutive Christmas visit from President Barack Obama and the first family as activity picked up Tuesday around the beachside compound that's come to be known as Obama's Western White House. Star-Advertiser.

Cautiously optimistic. That's the tone Hawaii taxpayers can expect when Gov. Neil Abercrombie releases his budget update Monday. Civil Beat.

The National Transportation Safety Board recommendation Tuesday that all states should ban drivers from using any cellphones, including hands-free devices, would be "drastic" and a tough sell in the islands where county restrictions already exist, a key Hawaii lawmaker said. Star-Advertiser.

The Legislature passed an anti-bullying law this year, but it wasn't in time to keep Hawaii out of a federal report that names the state as one of four without such a statute. Star-Advertiser.

For the last five months the Hawaii State Teachers Association has been making its case before the Labor Relations Board — and in the media — that Gov. Neil Abercrombie violated collective bargaining law when he unilaterally implemented a new contract on teachers in July. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Telcom workers have rejected the company's latest contract offer. Associated Press.

State roundup for Dec. 14. Associated Press.

Oahu

Skies over Oahu are expected to clear this morning as a storm system that prompted a flash-flood watch Tuesday moves to the east, the National Weather Service said. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission has approved First Wind and Hawaiian Electric Co.’s plan to construct a 69-megawatt wind farm on the North Shore of Oahu that will be the largest wind-energy project in the state. Pacific Business News.

CBS's executive producer for the television series Hawaii Five-O, Peter Lenkov, issued an apology on Tuesday, December 14, 2011, on behalf of the Hawaii Five-0 production unit, to "veterans and members of the Greatest Generation Foundation whom we unintentionally offended when our events coincided." Hawaii Reporter.

Local Nisei soldiers who received the coveted Congressional Gold Medal in Washington D.C. last month, will be honored during several celebrations in Honolulu this weekend. KITV4.

The city auditor found the city's Emergency Medical Services operation spent $15.7 million in non-holiday overtime costs between fiscal years 2008 and 2010. KITV4.

Hawaii

Although still without a contractor to clean its dry wells and drainage culverts, Hawaii County safely "weathered" recent rains that drenched much of the island. Tribune-Herald.

A reward of up to $30,000 is being offered for information leading to charges against the person or people who destroyed 10 acres of papaya trees in Kapoho this summer. Tribune-Herald.

Federal Justice Officials Ignore Questions About Hawaii Pot Minister. Civil Beat.

The low bidder for the next phase of the Kaloko Housing project is protesting its disqualification, its president says. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees left the replacement of former member Boyd Mossman in the governor's hands, after they were unable to reach a decision on the appointment Monday. Maui News.

The origin of a fire that knocked out 911 emergency service and caused other communications problems Sunday was unknown Monday, but a Hawaiian Telcom spokesman said all service was restored by 3:15 a.m. Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

On behalf of more than 150 Waimea residents, attorneys on Tuesday filed a lawsuit in Fifth Circuit Court on O‘ahu against Pioneer Hi-Bred International, a DuPont company. Garden Island.

Photovoltaic systems will be installed at 15 Kauai schools at no cost to the State. KHON2.

A handful of bills recently introduced by the Kaua‘i County Council may jolt the county’s main revenue generator — real property taxes. Garden Island.

An anonymous letter from a county employee takes aim at what is described as marijuana use during the workday by employees who never seem to come up for random urinalysis testing. Garden Island.

Lanai

When a former employee who became one of David H. Murdock’s most avid supporters sat down with the billionaire owner of Lana'i in July, she created quite a stir among residents when she wrote Murdock was contemplating selling the island. KHON2.

APEC to give Hawaii $120M boost, Honolulu, Maui looking at property tax exemptions, Big Island to celebrate Peace Corps' 50th, Hawaii Five-0 helps local school, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

APEC leaders 2011 Hawaii "Family Photo" courtesy photo

APEC

There was no aloha for aloha shirts Sunday as world leaders, for the second year in a row, discarded the tradition of appearing in locale-specific attire for their "family photo" to wrap up the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation annual summit. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama on Sunday tied the hopes of a faster American economic recovery to the booming Pacific Rim region, saying "we're not going to be able to put our folks back to work" unless the Asia-Pacific region is successful as an engine for the world. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama on Sunday declared the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit a success that will strengthen the U.S. economy, and he expressed gratitude to his hometown for hosting representatives from the 21 APEC nations. Star-Advertiser.

President Obama wrapped up the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit here on a personal note yesterday, thanking the people of Honolulu for their "extraordinary hospitality" and telling his visiting guests that Hawaii “made me who I am.” Civil Beat.

President Barack Obama capped the end of the Asia-Pacific Economic Leaders' Meeting Sunday night with pretty much the same message he has been pushing all weekend — that the Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing economic region in the world and one that the United States recognizes as a catalyst for its own future economic successes. Pacific Business News.

Asian-Pacific leaders have agreed on a range of measures to boost economic growth, including simplifying trade rules and cutting tariffs on green energy goods. Hawaii Reporter.

To give you an idea of just how unimportant the APEC summit was to the White House press corps, consider the fact that, of the 10 or so questions asked of President Barack Obama at his concluding press conference, just three or four were about APEC. Civil Beat.

At this week’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reiterated U.S. intentions in leading a united effort to establish free and fair trade throughout the Pacific. Hawaii Independent.

While trade was the main focus of last week's APEC meetings, a number of other topics were also discussed. One was the role of women in regional economic growth---and what can be done to boost that role. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than one thousand people, many of them local Filipino-Americans, attended a dinner honoring Philippine President Benigno Aquino III. It was the only public appearance for Aquino, who was in Hawaii to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. Hawaii News Now.

Makana Slips In Protest Song, Performing Before APEC Leaders. KITV4.

The big question many people have been asking - was it all worth it? KHON2.

Oahu

An independent review panel is leaning toward recommending that the city abolish property tax exemptions for roughly 150,000 Oahu homeowners, including the blind, elderly and disabled, as part of a major but controversial effort to bring more fairness, efficiency and accountability to the tax system while generating additional revenue for city services. Star-Advertiser.

The stars of CBS' "Hawaii Five-0" will be lending a hand off-screen to military school kids at Pearl Harbor. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Hawaii County Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida on Sunday announced his campaign for prosecuting attorney. West Hawaii Today.

When the federal government sought a training area to transition volunteers in the newly forged Peace Corps to posts in Southeast Asia, the Big Island was a natural choice. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The county should require property owners to dedicate their land to agriculture before awarding them significant tax benefits, according to a group of Maui County Council members formed to investigate the system. Maui News.

Kihei teen Matt Matasci got a once-in-a-lifetime experience Saturday when he heard speeches by world leaders including President Barack Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Honolulu. Maui News.

Kauai

Hawaiian guitarist Makana says he put his fears aside and listened to his heart when he chose to repeatedly sing his protest song, “We Are the Many,” to world leaders gathered for an APEC dinner Saturday. Garden Island.

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day drive on Oct. 29 at the Kaua‘i Police Department headquarters resulted in the recovery of 120 pounds of various unused medications, county officials said. Garden Island.

Roseanne Barr illegally grades mac nut farm, Hawaii lawmakers seek free lunch, state eyes school property, school lunch price tag rises, land chief fight continues, Kauai beach project advances, artist sees Virgin Mary in monkeypod tree, more

Hawaiian protest photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii could grant native Hawaiians self-government rights after federal proposals to do so failed. Associated Press.

Some Hawaii state legislators are trying to rewrite the law when it comes to getting gifts from ordinary citizens, businesses and even lobbyists.KITV4.

A bill intended to strengthen and clarify the state’s lobbyist regulation law has been quietly changed to allow legislators and state officials “to accept significant and costly gifts” from lobbyists. Hawaii Reporter.

The state House Finance Committee voted early today to tax pension income but set the threshold significantly higher than Gov. Neil Abercrombie preferred. Star-Advertiser.

With many Oahu residents already struggling to make ends meet, a property tax increase would only add to an already precarious financial situation. KHON2.

City Council members are taking aim at bills moving through the Legislature that would redevelop unused land on public school campuses to generate revenue for school facilities. Star-Advertiser.

The spat over land chief William Aila Jr.'s qualifications has moved from the Senate floor into Senate inboxes. Civil Beat.

The price of school lunches at Hawaii’s public schools will increase Tuesday from $2.20 to $2.35. KITV4.

Producing more electricity from lava-heated steam is the best way to meet Hawaii Island's future energy needs, according to one civil engineering professor. Tribune-Herald.

More than 150 dogs seized from puppy farm. Hawaii News Now.

State government general fund spending would start rising again under Gov. Neil Abercrombie's budget proposals following two years of decline under Gov. Linda Lingle. Associated Press.

Kona resident Bob Russell thinks Hawaii is in "a state of fiscal emergency" and "our so-called wise leader is continuing our spending addiction." West Hawaii Today.

Fisherman Stan Wright said he is afraid a continuing loss of water at Lake Wilson could cause a massive die-off of fish at one of the best angling places he knows in the United States. Star-Advertiser.

Sea Engineering Inc. has been selected to study Kauai’s Poipu Beach, where erosion is prompting safety and natural resource concerns. Pacific Business News

A public-private partnership between the county, state and local organizations has resulted in the Po‘ipu Beach restoration study becoming a reality. Garden Island.

A City Council Public Works and Sustainability Committee meeting took a bizarre turn Monday afternoon when former City Council candidate Matthew LoPresti had trouble explaining whether he was a lobbyist. Civil Beat.

Volunteers and researchers on Maui tallied 1,607 sightings of humpback whales Saturday, a 33 percent increase from last year, the Pacific Whale Foundation reported.Maui News.

A United Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Kona International Airport on the Big Island landed without incident even though mechanical problems forced a pilot to shut off one of the plane's engines shortly before arriving. Associated Press.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. says Chris Benjamin, its chief financial officer and the general manager of A&B's sugar plantation on Maui, is being promoted to president of A&B Land Group, which oversees A&B Properties and the company's agricultural businesses. Associated Press.

Hawaii County has informed comedian Roseanne Barr's land trust that grading done on her Honokaa macadamia nut farm was illegal. Tribune-Herald.

Cast and crew of the hit show Hawaii Five-0 have just a month-and-a-half left of shooting for this season. They'll wrap in mid-April. Hawaii News Now.

The Eddie won't go. The three-month holding period for the Quicksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau surf tournament on Oahu's North Shore ended Monday. KITV4.

There was a divine sighting on the Big Island in a monkey pod tree. KHON2.

Hollywood seeks Hawaii tax credits, soda tax fizzles, Honolulu rail in Obama budget, Big Island wants gas taxes for private roads, parents fight school closures, more Hawaii news

Honolulu homeless photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A legislative committee on Monday discussed the impact of homelessness on Hawaii's tourism industry. Hawaii News Now.

Dozens of bills designed to create affordable housing and help the homeless are flying under the radar at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

The state Senate Health Committee advanced a bill yesterday that would increase the tax on alcoholic beverages but removed a provision that would have created a new soda tax. Star-Advertiser.

No stranger to filming in Hawaii, actor Cuba Gooding Jr. told lawmakers yesterday he would like to film more movies in the islands and urged them to approve expanded tax breaks for production companies. Star-Advertiser.

The head of Relativity Media, a major Hollywood production company, asked state senators Monday to support tax credits for media productions and studio construction and a training program for film production workers. KITV4.

The state Legislature is poised to give final approval today to a proposal to permit civil unions in Hawaii, sending it to Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who has promised to sign the measure. Star-Advertiser.

The authority to use gasoline taxes to fix private roads is a power Hawaii County Council members want and one only the state Legislature may grant. Tribune-Herald.

It’s a fairly common phrase: “Hawaii is a special place.” When it comes to gaming, that’s certainly so—only Hawaii and Utah bar gambling. Hawaii Independent.

Russell Kokubun is Hawaii's new agriculture head following his confirmation by the state Senate. Associated Press.

Included in the president’s spending blueprint is a $250 million request for Honolulu’s controversial $5.5 billion rail transit system. KHON2.

Discounting works in the hotel business. At least in the short term. Maui News.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has fined a Honolulu Japanese goods retailer just over $222,000 for selling and distributing unregistered pesticides and improperly labeled pesticide products. Associated Press.

Waste Management of Hawaii, operators of the Waimanalo Gulch Sanitary Landfill, announced Monday that it expects the landfill’s stormwater diversion channel to be functional starting Tuesday. Pacific Business News

Twenty years after Molokai’s first flood maps were released, Maui County and federal agencies have presented a major overhaul of flood zones on Molokai.Molokai Dispatch.

Dozens of parents, teachers and community members crowded into a Board of Education meeting room yesterday to speak out against closing three small Honolulu schools, some saying that shuttering the campuses would be unfair given a recent decision to spare two Hawaii Kai schools. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) shut down Hapuna State Recreation area on Monday after a lifeguard spotted what is suspected to be an unexploded ordnance. KHON2.

Hawaii County's confusing bid specifications are delaying construction of the first of many covered play courts Mayor Billy Kenoi has pledged to build islandwide. Tribune-Herald.

Environmental benefits is the focus of the $2.9 million Pelekane Bay Watershed Restoration Project, but Melora Purell also shed light on economic factors Sunday during the Kawaihae Local Resource Council's monthly meeting. West Hawaii Today.

A controversial permit to fence off the easiest access to Lepe‘uli, known as Larsen’s Beach, was surrendered last month. Garden Island.

Stunts on Hawaii Five-0 are of movie caliber but to create the seamless transition from stunt double to actor is quite a task. Hawaii News Now.

Lynne Waters, recently hired as spokeswoman for City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro, has jumped ship from Kaneshiro’s staff to take a high-priced University of Hawaii public relations position, Hawaii Reporter has learned. Hawaii Reporter.

Obama Hawaii vacation home illegal, Health Department defends water, schools want more money, eight vie for Sen. Kokubun's seat, Big Island council chair fights ethics charge, Colt Brennan's girlfriend sued in traffic crash, Maui library reopens, Kauai vandals hit state equipment, Hawaii Five-0 the people's choice, more

President Barack Obama's two-week stay at his Hawaii Winter White House was illegal under a long-standing Honolulu ban on short-term rentals. Civil Beat.

The level of a toxic chemical in Honolulu's drinking water found by an environmental research group is "not a huge problem," although government testing is continuing, said state Health Director Neal Palafox. Star-Advertiser.

Concerns over Oahu's drinking water surfaced in Bonnie Marsh's home after a mainland group's study claimed Oahu's water supply may be contaminated with high levels of Chromium VI, a suspected cancer causing agent. Hawaii News Now.

State health officials say a Honolulu water sample taken by an environmental group showed only natural levels of a carcinogen called hexavalent chromium. Associated Press.

A new year brings with it new budget wars in the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

The state schools superintendent said Wednesday that a new law requiring more instructional time in public schools is not possible for some schools and may be too difficult to implement at all this year. KITV4.

The Department of Education presented state senators yesterday with a "no frills" operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year that seeks $129 million to restore cuts and an additional $29 million for what was described as a wish list for tough times. Star-Advertiser.

Despite slightly improved revenue projections, the overall state budget picture remains very bleak, legislators were told today. Hawaii Reporter.

Remember Mufi Hannemann’s now infamous “Compare-and-Decide” mailer? Honolulu Weekly.

One state House member and a former Hawaii County Council chairman are among the eight qualified Democrats seeking appointment to Hawaii's 2nd Senate District. Tribune-Herald.

The 112th U-S Congress convened today on Capitol Hill. Ninety-six freshmen Representatives were sworn into office … including one from Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Colleen Hanabusa, the former state Senate president, was sworn in yesterday as urban Honolulu's new congresswoman. Star-Advertiser.

Interview: Former Congressman Charles Djou. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has been sworn into his ninth 6-year term, retaining his status as the longest-serving Senate incumbent. Associated Press.

The head of the environmental group Hawaii’s Thousand Friends complained Wednesday that the city wasn't clear enough about what sensitive areas would be affected by the proposed rail transit project. KITV4.

Almost 5,000 acres of West Molokai pasture lands would be preserved under a plan by Molokai Properties Ltd. Maui News.

A vote on a developer's agreement has spawned an ethics complaint against County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council must be notified when the county administration changes the price of construction or service contracts, according to a bill lawmakers unanimously passed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council will start getting regular reports about contract change orders. West Hawaii Today.

Traffic fatalities jumped by more than 25 percent last year on the Big Island, despite an increase in drunken driving arrests and a drop in major traffic crashes. Star-Advertiser.

Brennan's girlfriend Stream named in suit seeking tort damages. West Hawaii Today.

Maui accountant Lloyd Kimura pleaded guilty Wednesday to nine counts of bank and mail fraud and theft in an elaborate ponzi scheme. Hawaii News Now.

A handful of Waimea residents has filed suit against Hawaii County claiming the approval of a special use permit amendment to expand Parker School's campus and the subsequent dismissal of an appeal of that decision violated state and federal laws. West Hawaii Today.

A $1 billion project proposed by Waikiki giant Kyo-Ya Hotels and Resorts would see the first beach-side resort to go up in the area in over three decades. Hawaii Independent.

A battle over a planned oceanfront hotel and condominium tower next to the Moana Surfrider Hotel in Waikiki is moving to a city review board. Star-Advertiser.

A gun is fired under the watchful eye of Honolulu Police, aimed in the direction of the Hawaii Convention Center. KHON2.

Keokea resident Marjory Stone punched her right fist into the air as she cradled five books while approaching Kahului Public Library on Tuesday. Maui News.

Vandals cost taxpayers $10,000. Garden Island.

"Hawaii Five-0" was declared the best new drama on television at tonight's People's Choice Awards. Star-Advertiser.

Lights ... camera ... action! We’re so used to that instant action and glamour of the silver screen that it’s easy to overlook the many components that go into creating movies. Midweek.

There are not one but two storm fronts that will affect our state. KHON2.

"My dad started here in the 1950s," says Wes, on lunch break at the old Pepe'ekeo power plant. "I grew up around power plants and sugar cane." Big Island Weekly.

Hawaii visitor spending up, Obama goes snorkeling, Abercrombie continues birther battle, Kauai budget woes, fireworks sales up, state drivers face ignition interlock, gas supply in doubt, Hokulia road fight in court, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Visitor spending in Hawaii jumped more than 30 percent in November to $976 million, reflecting double-digit increases on all islands for the third consecutive month, according to figures released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Spending in Hawaii by tourists and other visitors in November skyrocketed by almost a third compared to a year ago. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama spent yesterday morning on the beach and afternoon on the golf course, both favorite destinations during his vacations in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to find a way to release more information about President Barack Obama's birth and dispel conspiracy theories that he was born elsewhere. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to find a way to release more information about President Barack Obama's birth and dispel conspiracy theories that he was born elsewhere.KHON2.

Chevron's Campbell Industrial Park refinery suffered a break down on Tuesday, company officials confirmed. KITV4.

There are concerns over Hawaii's supply of gasoline as the year comes to an end, along with dire predictions for future prices at the pump. KITV4.

Here in Hawaii, we are now seeing the highest gas prices of the entire year. KHON2.

For those ringing in the new year by drinking in the new year, take note: Hawaii's new ignition interlock law takes effect Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Residents convicted of drunken driving will soon have to install sophisticated breath-monitoring devices on their vehicles if they want to legally drive. West Hawaii Today.

The county administration recently released its financial report for Fiscal Year 2010, which ended June 30, revealing a dim light at the end of the tunnel. Garden Island.

It's been a busy year for Honolulu police homicide investigators. The number of killings on Oahu has spiked from last year. Hawaii News Now.

There was a noticeable buzz among the steady stream of customers moving through the fireworks aisles at the Kaheka Street Don Quijote store yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

After surveying the damage Tuesday, it looks like we got off lucky. Sure there's clean-up to do, but considering how hard it rained Monday night, the mess isn't all that bad. Hawaii News Now.

The manager of Kobashigawa Farm said rain pounded down for six hours Monday night, while rising water flooded the green onion fields at the Waianae farm. KITV4.

State regulators have allowed Castle & Cooke to develop a 120-acre solar power farm near Mililani without facing competitive bidding. Associated Press.

The Department of Health has extended its Brown Water Advisory for Oahu, advising people to stay out of waters near river mouths and harbors. Hawaii News Now.

State and county officials are warning the public about potentially unhealthy brown water at beaches due to heavy rains. Maui News.

Tenants at a state housing project in Waimanalo have been given two days to get rid of their washing machines, because they're not hooked up to sewage lines and instead empty into storm drains or onto the grass. KITV4.

County attorneys are petitioning the 3rd Circuit Court to expedite their civil case against the insurance company holding the bond for the Mamalahoa bypass, while the County Council chairman says he favors issuing a new bond to get construction going, while seeking reimbursement through that insurance company. West Hawaii Today.

The funeral service for retired federal Judge Samuel Pailthorpe King will be held Wednesday at St. Andrews’s Cathedral. Hawaii Reporter.

Wailuku businessman Lloyd Kimura pleaded guilty to four counts of securities violations in 2nd Circuit Court Tuesday morning. Maui News.

American Community Survey indicates North Shore community has one of Hawaii's most dramatically improved local economies. Civil Beat.

The Ewa District on Oahu is fast resembling any other cookie-cutter suburb.Hawaii Independent.

State Rep. Bob Herkes is questioning what he calls a lack of competition in contracts for the Hawaiian Ocean View Estates water project and he's scheduled a Jan. 6 fact-finding hearing. West Hawaii Today.

A swimmer at King's Landing in Keaukaha who reportedly waved to onlookers and shouted for help Monday afternoon drowned before a rescue diver was able to retrieve him. Tribune-Herald.

A Texas court has blocked the release of an autopsy report on surfing champion Andy Irons at the request of his widow. Associated Press.

Creating a modern "Hawaii Five-0" was as intimidating as any drama Peter Lenkov could imagine. Star-Advertiser.

Obama home for the holidays, Native Hawaiians get $500M in no-bid contracts, Young Bros. seeks big shipping increase, lights out at Ala Moana Center, Kauai measures community, Big Island police union wants more cops, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

After a 10-hour flight, President Barack Obama arrived in Honolulu under a waning moon on a humid night. Star-Advertiser.

A politically rejuvenated President Barack Obama arrived here late Wednesday for an 11-day family vacation in his home state. Associated Press.

Check out this first video of their arrival. KHON2.

President Barack Obama has arrived in his home state for a 10-day family vacation. Associated Press.

Wednesday afternoon President Barack Obama boarded a flight to Honolulu where he will spend Christmas with his wife and two daughters, but he didn't leave Washington DC until finishing important business. Hawaii News Now.

President Barack Obama arrived in Hawaii a little before midnight Wednesday. KITV4.

Security around President Barack Obama’s compound on Kailua Beach is about to get a lot tighter, once the president arrives overnight Wednesday. KITV4.

President Barack Obama has something in common with potential White House rival Mitt Romney. He and the Republican are both taking vacations in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Young Bros. Ltd., Hawaii's regulated interisland ocean cargo transportation firm, says it needs to raise average rates 24 percent -- the highest increase in at least 30 years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's largest inter-island shipper on Wednesday asked regulators for permission to raise its rates by an average of 24 percent, saying it needs to charge customers more to stay in business because of falling cargo volumes and the emergence of new competition. Associated Press.

Cargo company Young Brothers has announced they will be increasing their shipping rates statewide. Molokai Dispatch.

A handful of Native Hawaiian-owned companies used federal contracting preferences authored by U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-HI, to land some $500 million in non-bid or reduced competition government work since 2005, according to federal purchasing records.Hawaii Reporter.

Hispanics in Hawaii. Honolulu Weekly.

A Wailuku teenager forced to re-tool himself after a near-death experience can claim fame as a guest on the set of the new "Hawaii Five-0," a remake TV show trying to craft its own success. Maui News.

Obama ends year on high; Djou on Djou farewell; Akaka on Akaka bill; and Slom says U.S. a "bona fide homosexual nation." Civil Beat.

Hawaii's two congressional districts are unlikely to change significantly under new population counts released Tuesday by the U.S. Census Bureau. West Hawaii Today.

Rancher Malama Solomon is returning to the state Senate seat she held for 16 consecutive years. Tribune-Herald.

Outgoing City Councilman Rod Tam, already facing possible jail time after pleading guilty last month to 26 misdemeanor counts to settle charges brought by the state, could face additional charges stemming from a separate investigation by the state Campaign Spending Commission. Star-Advertiser.

A promised crackdown by Honolulu city officials on the use of illegal fireworks has already resulted in three arrests in less than 24 hours. KHON2.

A local police union official says that despite the economy, there needs to be more patrol officers on the beat. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County drinking water may soon cost more, but it is clear of the concentrations of the "Erin Brockovich chemical" found in Honolulu's tap water. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources on Wednesday advised the ocean-going public that recent heavy rains, along with forecasts for more rain during the coming week, may increase the presence of sharks in nearshore waters. Garden Island.

Regular beachgoers who brave the debris from Hawaii's recent storms should be on the lookout for another challenge, the type with big teeth. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i Planning and Action Alliance is beginning work on the third edition of “Measuring What Matters for Kaua‘i: Community Indicators Report,” and has received $10,000 from the SW Wilcox Trust toward its publication.Garden Island.

The project to rebuild the parking area near the entrance to the Keawakapu Beach access will remain suspended at least for a while. Maui News.

It was lights-out again at the State's largest mall. KHON2.

Power went out again briefly last night at Ala Moana Center at the height of the holiday shopping season. Star-Advertiser.

With so many potholes to fill following the recent heavy rains on Oahu, the city has increased the number of crews patrolling the island. Hawaii News Now.

Kailua-Kona resident Clement "Junior" Kanuha Jr. never lost sight of his dream to protect, preserve and recount the oral traditions of significant Big Island places. West Hawaii Today.

Kyoto Obubu Tea Plantations tea farmer and president Akihiro Kita will be visiting Hilo to introduce tea lovers and aspiring tea growers to Japanese tea and tea farming. Big Island Weekly.

Hawaii joblessness as high as 9%, state House leadership turmoil, Kauai council shows openness, welfare recipients spend on mainland, lawmakers look to marijuana harvests, Hawaii Five-0 harkens back, Colt Brennan update, more island news

The caretaker of Hanauma Bay shares some of his secrets. KITV4.

After more than a decade on the job, House Speaker Calvin Say can't muster the votes to stay in power. Civil Beat.

Citizen groups seeking transparency in government are sending letters to each of Hawaii’s legislators that urge them to make the Capitol more accessible. Associated Press.

The newly elected members of the Kaua‘i County Council met in public Monday for an organizational meeting to discuss committee assignments and other key appointments. Garden Island.

A KITV4 News investigation found Hawaii welfare recipients are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars a month on the mainland, even though they're Hawaii residents, and it's allowed by law. KITV4.

Hawaii's unemployment rate held steady at 6.4 percent in October for the fourth straight month as the uneven nature of the state's economic recovery kept a lid on any significant job growth. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's unemployment rate is still 6.4%, but there are still wide differences from island to island, and a much higher rate of workers who can't get all the hours they want. Hawaii News Now.

Lockheed Martin Corp. says it has received $4.4 million in federal grants to help it commercialize technology producing energy by exploiting ocean temperature differences. Associated Press.

Top state lawmakers are looking for ways to make more medical marijuana available, especially to people in urban areas who can't grow their own. KITV4.

What can the public really expect from the Abercrombie administration during the upcoming 2011 legislative session? Hawaii Independent.

As Hawaii prepares to usher in a new administration, one has to look back on those promises made in the heat of the campaign and during numerous debates voters had to endure and wonder if they can be delivered. West Hawaii Today.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie is correct that the rail project is primarily a city and Federal Transit Administration responsibility. However, he is wrong in declaring that it is not his responsibility “to weigh in on the finances” since rail has the potential to significantly impact the state’s finances. Hawaii Reporter.

A security summit held annually in Honolulu is in it's eighth year, but this time around, there's a hot topic at the convention. KHON2.

A shooter fires a weapon. In the flash of an eye a computer detects and fingerprints the gun and reports back to a machine called a Hostile Fire Detection System. Hawaii News Now.

The Transportation Security Administration said Honolulu travelers should not expect major turbulence in their travel plans, despite a planned protest over security measures at Honolulu Airport. Star-Advertiser.

More than a dozen people testified yesterday against changes limiting eligibility for state mental health services — changes that some critics say contributed to a 36 percent rise in deaths among mental patients in 2009 from the year before. Star-Advertiser.

Local retailers are projecting a "strong holiday season," with most contacted in the days before Black Friday saying overall sales for the year are already up compared to last. Maui News.

A bill introduced by Honolulu City Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi would cap sewer fees for homeowners who earn $50,000 a year or less at .33 percent of their monthly income. KHON2.

After a 14-month journey around Hawaii County government, Mayor Billy Kenoi's ethics-reform package died a quiet death last week. Tribune-Herald.

Jamae Kawauchi, a Hilo attorney specializing in land-use, civil and business litigation, has been chosen to be Hawaii County's next clerk, Hamakua Councilman Dominic Yagong said Friday. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Health is warning divers to avoid the water around Pearl Harbor's Pier Mike 1 after thousands of gallons of sewage spilled in a storm drain that empties into harbor. Associated Press.

The Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission will hold a meeting at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 30 at the Kahului Community Center. Maui News.

After a year and a half of back and forth, the proposed protections for Mo`omomi-Anahaki are ready to be sent to the Hawaiian Homes Commission for a vote next month. Molokai Dispatch.

A bit of nostalgia on the Hawaii Five-0 set. Al Harrington, the only living member of the original cast, shot a guest spot for an upcoming episode. Hawaii News Now.

The parents of former U.H. quarterback Colt Brennan say little has changed in the past 24 hours. KHON2.