Hawaii researchers probe mercury in fish, Deedy jury was leaning to acquittal, health costs climb, special session for gay marriage would cost $25,800, solar may get more pricey, Honolulu has bad drivers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii fishermen (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Hawaii and Michigan researchers say they've discovered how large quantities of toxic mercury end up in the fish we eat — and their work suggests that levels will rise in the coming decades. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai'i took an especially hard hit during the recession, and families with children are among those who suffered the most, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A new report using data from the American Community Survey and Current Population Survey released Tuesday indicates the number of unemployed parents trying to raise a family in Hawai'i skyrocketed by 95% from 2005 to 2011. Hawaii News Now.

Malama Solomon and other members of Hawaii's Senate Water and Land Committee say the state should sue the U.S. Navy for roughly $100 million because it didn’t clean up all the ordnance that it dropped on the small island of Kahoolawe. Civil Beat.

A State Senate Committee conducted a hearing today on the impact of federal cuts on departmental operations and state jurisdiction over Hawaiian waters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Health care costs in Hawaii have grown 6.2 percent annually for nearly the past two decades but are still rising at a slower rate than the national average. Statewide costs rose to an average of $6,856 per person from 1991 to 2009, according to a study due out today by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services. That compares to the national average of 6.5 percent and health spending per person of $6,815. Star-Advertiser.

A special session to consider same-sex marriage legislation would cost Hawaii taxpayers about $25,800 — or about 1.9 cents for each of the 1.39 million men, women and children in the state. That cost estimate, provided to Civil Beat from state House Chief Clerk Brian Takeshita, assumes that a session would last just five days. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, Hawaii Democratic Party and numerous special interest groups are pushing lawmakers to hold a special session to legalize gay marriage. The governor, a long time proponent of gay marriage, can call lawmakers into session, but first wants to ensure he has the votes. Hawaii Reporter.

A proposed rule change that would allow only licensed electricians to install solar photovoltaic panels may increase the cost of installations in Hawaii and limit the number of companies that install projects, according to several sources within the solar PV industry. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for August 28. Associated Press.

Oahu
Honolulu is among the worst when it comes to safe driving, ranked at 128 of 200 cities in Allstate America's Best Drivers Report. Island drivers aren't as bad as those in New York; Oakland, Calif.; New Orleans; Buffalo, N.Y.; Pittsburgh; San Jose, Calif.; Los Angeles; Miami; Dallas; San Francisco; and last-place Washington, D.C., the report shows. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu ranks among the worst cities for road conditions and traffic congestion, but a new study by Allstate Insurance gives Oahu drivers a bad rating as well. Honolulu comes in a No. 128 of 200 U.S. cities in the newly released 2013 “Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report” and is considered one of the least safe cities for drivers. Hawaii Reporter.

People who work in town and drive through Central Oahu to get home can easily easily spend an hour in pau hana traffic. But the State Department of Transportation is working to ease afternoon commute times by creating a PM zipperlane, and the project is about to ramp up. KHON2

About 40 workers within the Athletics Department at the University of Hawaii Manoa campus have been forced to forgo overtime compensation after a memorandum of agreement with the state’s largest public worker union expired June 30. KITV.

A Circuit Court jury reached an impasse at 8-4 in favor of acquitting State Department special agent Christopher Deedy of murdering Kollin Elderts in the 2011 shooting at a Waikiki McDonald’s restaurant, the foreman of the jury said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro was unapologetic Tuesday for how his office handled the Christopher Deedy murder trial that ended Monday in a hung jury. Civil Beat.

Next summer Christopher Deedy will be retried on second-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Kollin Elderts. Hawaii News Now.

A protest on behalf of shooting victim Kollin Elderts was held in Waikiki Tuesday. Protesters are angry about the mistrial and believe Christopher Deedy is guilty of murder. KHON2.

Oahu fishermen will get an opportunity to air their concerns before the chairman of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. DLNR Chairman William Aila Jr. will listen to fishermen and answer questions at an informal "talk story" session on Sept. 4. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Hawaii County will pay another $400,000 for a water tank completed in 2004 that hasn’t yet been put into use. West Hawaii Today.

Jessica R. Walsh and Victoria C. Fiore testified in U.S. District Court on Tuesday in a hearing to determine whether the court will allow marijuana advocate Roger Christie and his wife, Sherry­anne, to use the religious defense in their upcoming trial for marijuana possession, distribution, manufacture and conspiracy charges. The trial is scheduled for early October. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island led the way in the state during the first half of 2013 in new car sales, according to the latest Auto Outlook scorecard from the Hawaii Auto Dealers Association. Big Isle new retail light vehicle registrations increased by 16 percent through the end of June this year, compared to the same period last year, when a total of 2,517 new registrations were filed. Tribune-Herald.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved a plan to construct 22 miles of fencing to protect a key watershed in Ka`u from the negative impact of pigs and other ungulates. Big Island Now.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa said he believes most shark bites are accidental in nature, and does not personally like the idea of hunting sharks or setting up barrier fences off shore. Maui Now.

Jeff Bagshaw's first visit to Haleakala National Park was a "light bulb experience." On that 1988 hiking and camping trip with his college group from Washington state, he saw more endangered wildlife in three days than he had in months on the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

After months of searching, Kauai County officials are still looking for a vendor to set up shop in a vacant Wailua Golf Course clubhouse concession area. “The county has not received any bids on the operation of the Wailua Golf Course restaurant to date,” County of Kauai spokeswoman Mary Daubert said in an e-mail. “Our hope is to find an operator and get the concession running as soon as possible.” Garden Island.

For the second time in a week, U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard returned to the Garden Isle Tuesday, with a jam-packed schedule. Garden Island.

A juvenile Hawaiian green sea turtle found entangled in a fishing line or netting off Kauai's north shore was euthanized Monday after it suffered irreparable damage to its flippers. Star-Advertiser.

A coalition of 35 volunteers removed more than 1,500 pounds of marine debris from Hanamaulu Beach on Saturday. Garden Island.

Native Hawaiian evicted from Hawaii County land, state tops in multigenerational households, TV news lacks government info, illegal ballots don't matter, UH selling land to pay bills, Maui approves growth plans, gas average $4.41/gal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kawa Bay activist Abel Simeone Lui (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii County officials on Thursday evicted Native Hawaiian activist Abel Simeone Lui, whom state courts ruled — after years of challenges — was illegally occupying the land at Kawa Bay. West Hawaii Today

U.S. Census Bureau figures released Thursday show multigenerational families make up 11.1 percent of all households in Hawaii. That's by far the highest rate in the nation, and well above the national average of 5.6 percent. Star-Advertiser.

A new study by local citizens groups shows that Hawaii residents see more ads than information when watching local TV news programs, raising questions about whether local news stations are doing enough to educate voters before they head to the polls. Civil Beat.

More than one-half million Hawaii ballots were printed with the presidential candidates in no particular order, despite a state law that says all candidates must be in alphabetical order within their respective races. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa said Thursday that success in Congress depends on how well you get along with your colleagues, but reflecting your political party's values is also important. Former U.S. Rep. Charles Djou said he would work closer to the political center than the extremes. Star-Advertiser.

The Tax Review Commission met Thursday at the No. 1 Capitol District Building to hammer out a draft of revenue evaluation and policy recommendations to make to the Hawaii Legislature in December. The report is expected to be finalized when the commission meets again in late November. Civil Beat.

Ray L'Heureux, assistant superintendent for the Office of Facilities and Support Services, told the Board of Education last week that the district could spend its entire annual capital improvement projects budget on just one of the state's 15 complex areas and still fall far short. Civil Beat.

Gas prices drop in Hawaii for first time in 11 weeks. Star-Advertiser.

The Queen's Medical Center is suing Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. for more than $4 million, saying Kaiser underpaid Queen's for care given to Kaiser members. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for October 26. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city of Honolulu sold $913 million of bonds this week at historic low interest rates and refinanced older bonds to save taxpayers more than $75 million, officials said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

House Finance committee Chairman Marcus Oshiro says the state won't easily give up the general excise tax surcharge that’s currently being collected for the city’s $5.26 billion rail project, he has another think coming. Civil Beat.

In an exclusive interview on Hawaii Reporter Television today, former Governor Ben Cayetano blasts Pacific Resource Partnership for its latest attack ad targeting his record as governor. Hawaii Reporter.

Transportation alternatives … rail or buses … are at the epicenter in the race for Honolulu Mayor. Hawaii Public Radio.

Tom Berg's strident political persona and some well-publicized controversies have made Berg a well-known political figure on Oahu, but that fame may also make him vulnerable to a challenge by four-term state Rep. Kymberly Marcos Pine. Star-Advertiser.

The newly opened UH West Oahu campus is facing future financial shortfalls, and Hawaii News Now has learned that university officials are selling a large portion of land at the campus to the Catholic Church to help make ends meet. Hawaii News Now.

Japanese-based Seibu Group intends to keep its three Hawaii hotels after an unsuccessful effort earlier this year to sell the Hawaii Prince Hotel, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. Star-Advertiser.

Repairs to pedestrian bridge over Moanalua Freeway to begin Nov. 1 State will shut down exits from freeway to Moanalua Road overnight. KITV4.

East Oahu residents complain about it and the City is aware of it. So what's being done to stop an over-population of feral cats in the heart of Hawaii Kai? KHON2.

Hawaii

Negative campaigning seems to be commonplace in the 2012 elections, however, mudslinging should have no place in Hawaii politics, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Mazie Hirono said Thursday during a party rally in South Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Pohakuloa Training Area will open several areas to bow hunting on Saturday, Oct. 27, and Sunday, Oct. 28. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council is getting closer to approving boundaries for future growth after a committee OK'd maps this week that will guide development for the next 20 years. Pacific Business News.

A decadelong process neared an end Wednesday afternoon as a Maui County Council committee recommended approval of maps that will guide future growth and development on the island over the next two decades. Maui News.

Waihee School Principal Leila Hayashida has been tapped as acting complex area superintendent for the Central Maui complex, according to Sandy Goya, spokeswoman for the state Department of Education. Maui News.

An appeal has been filed with the Intermediate Court of Appeals seeking a stay on the County sponsored Halloween event in Lahaina Town. Maui Now.

Kauai

There are three simple ways to improve electric sustainability, according to County Energy Coordinator Ben Sullivan. Garden Island.

After learning last week that the contract between the county and Hale ‘Opio’s Teen Court had expired, Kaua‘i County Council Chair Jay Furfaro introduced Wednesday a bill to appropriate $31,000 to fund the long-standing youth diversionary program. Garden Island.

The Koloa Post Office closed briefly on Thursday after an elderly man crashed his car through the front of the building. Garden Island.

Lanai

The grass may soon be greener on the island of Lanai. New owner Larry Ellison has already set into motion changes around town but there are even bigger plans in store for the future. KHON2.

Molokai

A new county Department of Public Works baseyard will bring upgrades for both the department and Molokai’s emergency response capabilities. Molokai Dispatch.

Affordable Care Act to have minimal impact on Hawaii, school lunch prices spike, Kauai neighborhood cleared of toxic arsenic, dioxin in soil, Hawaii County Council mulls $31M bond issue, tsunami debris hits Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito courtesy photo

In compliance with the federal Affordable Care Act, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Monday he has selected HMSA's existing health care benefits package that will serve as the base line for all future insurance coverage offered in the state come 2014, when the law is fully implemented. Star-Advertiser.

A healthcare plan offered by the Hawaii Medical Service Association will be the template for all insurance plans offered to the public when President Obama’s universal coverage law begins in 2014, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced today. Hawaii Reporter.

A package of health insurance benefits created by the Hawaii Medical Service Association will serve as the state’s benchmark for the minimum amount of coverage health insurers in Hawaii must provide in 2014 and 2015 under the federal Affordable Care Act. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Aberceombie's June 28, 2012 statement on Affordable Care Act ruling.

The cost of school lunches in Hawaii has been rising, and one menu item in particular costs almost twice as much today as it did three years ago: hot dogs. Civil Beat.

It has been four months since the teachers union wrapped up a prohibited-practice case before the Hawaii Labor Relations Board — more than enough time, the union argues, for the board to decide whether the state violated members' rights when it imposed a contract in July 2011. The Hawaii State Teachers Association has asked the state Supreme Court to compel the labor board to issue a quick ruling in the case. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said state negotiators have met several times with a federal mediator to try and reach a contract agreement with Hawaii teachers. KITV4.

The Public Land Development Corp. will meet Oct. 11 in Honolulu to consider the approval of a strategic plan as well as some changes to its draft administrative rules. Big Island Now.

Hawai`i residents are worried about what the state’s new Public Land Development Corporation will mean for land across the state. The PLDC’s five member board has been granted increased powers to develop public property. Now board members are considering some changes to the rules, in an effort to ease residents’ concerns. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii will soon be the new site for a high-tech device that harnesses wave energy to create electricity. Hawaii News Now.

The next installment of senate hearings into the University of Hawaii Stevie Wonder concert fiasco take place Tuesday. KHON2.

Here's a list of the people invited to testify Tuesday, Oct. 2., before the State Senate Special Committee on Accountability about the University of Hawaii's Stevie Wonder concert fiasco. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority on Monday that issued a request for proposals for its 2013 Product Enrichment Program that supports community-based cultural and natural resource programs. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Most voters have long since made up their minds about the Honolulu rail project, and their opposition has put Ben Cayetano in good position to become the city's next mayor. Civil Beat.

Similarities in capaign ads  continue to raise questions about whether any campaign finance laws have been shirked — everyone involved denies this — the ads also highlight the influence of outside money in the Honolulu mayor's race. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii officials showed off $1.3 million worth of repairs to UH's College Hill mansion eight years ago and said that "nothing major" remained to be done. But today, $680,000 worth of "major" repairs are under way at the UH president's unoccupied mansion — and running two weeks behind schedule. Star-Advertiser.

The first phase of a $135 million upgrade to Hawaii’s largest public housing complex is nearing completion, and a group of units has become available for rent to low-income families. Star-Advertiser.

Bicycling on Oahu suffers from the chicken-and-the-egg problem. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric Company has been working on the Ko'olau ridge for about a month now. They are trying to upgrade Oahu's power grid. KITV4.

The Honolulu Marathon is expected to generate record revenue for Hawaii this year with one of the biggest races in its 40-year history. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The county’s current mayor and his old boss-turned mayoral rival disagreed Monday night over whose administration could take credit for at least one big West Hawaii project. West Hawaii Today.

A proposed $16.8 million bond issue for a South Kona police station has ballooned to $31.4 million, thanks to amendments adding other projects offered by two Hilo council members originally opposed to the bond authorization. West Hawaii Today.

The Windward Planning Commission is looking for guidance on how it can tap into a $2.1 million Geothermal Asset Fund. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawa­uchi, who has endured a firestorm of criticism for her handing of the primary election, admits she has made errors but promises to press ahead and ensure the general election Nov. 6 goes smoothly. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

A federal judge ordered a $15,000 fine Monday for a Maui rancher who arranged the transportation of axis deer and mouflon rams between Maui and Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

The next in a series of community meetings will be held tonight to discuss the county’s 2013-2014 budget. Maui Now.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and its hired consultants will hold a public meeting in Lahaina on Tuesday to review a draft Wahikuli-Honokowai Watershed Management Plan. Associated Press.

Mokulele Airlines is expected to launch its daily service flights between Kahului and Hana airports today, with one-way fares starting at $59. Maui News.

Kauai

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the state Department of Health have completed a Superfund Removal Program cleanup removing more than 814 tons of contaminated soil from residential and commercial properties in Kilauea, Kaua‘i, according to an EPA press release Monday. Garden Island.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state Health Department have completed removal of toxic soil at a Kilauea neighborhood on Kauai, the agencies announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

All of car dealer/developer James Pflueger’s co-defendants in a tax evasion case pending in federal court have  pleaded guilty. Hawaii Reporter.

The Kaua‘i County Council last week gave its stamp of approval for the Office of Prosecuting Attorney to apply, receive and expend $210,000 in federal grants for two programs. But decision on a request to apply for $35,000 in federal grants for a youth diversionary program was postponed for a week. Garden Island.

Molokai

Japanese Tsunami Debris Arrives on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Limits sought for public land development agency, Maui scientists launch coffee-infused breakfast cereal, state pays $400k workers comp to Kauai man dead 20 years, Kaneohe Marine base faces fines for pyrotechnics, Kilauea lava flow resumes march toward sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pololu Valley Lookout (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Two state senators behind the Public Land Development Corp. on Monday recommended a new strategic plan to help respond to intense criticism from environmentalists, Native Hawaiians and labor about the corporation's mission. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Public Land Development Corporation is facing an increasingly hostile political landscape as it works to partner with private companies to develop state lands. Civil Beat.

A newly released internal audit warns that a lack of oversight and accountability in key procurement and contracting processes at the Department of Education opens up the agency to a risk of theft. Star-Advertiser.

As the nation reflects today on the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks that claimed about 3,000 lives, the Pacific Aviation Museum has gathered together a representation of the "war on terror" costs for America that followed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii voters unsatisfied with either the Democratic Party ticket (Barack Obama and Joe Biden) or the Republican Party ticket (Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan) have a third and fourth option. Civil Beat.

Several hundred new apartment rentals are under construction statewide. The units will increase affordable housing options for low-income residents, but according to the state’s housing study tens of thousands of additional affordable rentals are needed. Hawaii Public Radio.

School Bullies: Hawaii Gay Kids Face High Risk Of Harassment. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle is headed to China for a conference. Associated Press.

A multimedia campaign designed to beef up support for the city's $5.26 billion rail project has been making a pitch in emails designed to solicit canvassers to walk door to door in support of rail. Star-Advertiser.

The State is considering issuing a fine against Kaneohe Marine Corps Base for not having a permit for a pyrotechnics rehearsal it conducted over the weekend. KHON2.

A potential development in Aiea has some residents concerned about whether their homes will have trade winds anymore. Civil Beat.

A community-based effort called 100,000 Homes Oahu aims to move 100 of Oahu's most at-risk homeless people and families into permanent homes within the next two years. Star-Advertiser.

A local developer is converting an office building formerly known as "Newtown Square" to medical condominium units. KHON2.

Brigham Young University-Hawaii is working to improve its newest degree program -- one of its most popular --  after the school received sharp criticism from a regional accreditation team raising questions about whether the new major amounted to a "worthless degree." Hawaii News Now.

The Queen's Medical Center is now willing to release a 95-year-old, debilitated woman — with her feeding tube in place — after a circuit judge indicated last week that he's unlikely to rule on whether to remove Karen Okada's feeding tube until late October. Star-Advertiser.

AES Solar has received approval of its environmental impact statement for Kalaeloa Home Lands Solar LLC, a proposed 5-megawatt solar farm in West Oahu. Pacific Business News.

A recycling program has started generating complaints along with cans and cardboard and some have already discontinued their efforts. Hawaii News Now.

The “Thai lottery” case being investigated by federal authorities and police here involves “a mom and pop operation that’s been going on for 20 years within the Laotian and Thai communities,” defense attorney Myles Breiner said today. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii

Astronomers at the W.M. Keck Observatory atop Mauna Kea were set to begin using a new instrument Monday night that promises to speed up the process of discovering some of the universe’s oldest, and most distant, objects. Tribune-Herald.

A rash of burglaries in Kona has left residents terrified and contemplating taking their safety into their own hands. West Hawaii Today.

After months of inconclusive dithering, a lava flow from a breakout near Puu Oo is making its way downslope. Tribune-Herald.

Wainaku Ventures LLC, whose sole principal is the Edmund C. Olson Trust II, has bought the Wainaku Executive Center from the estate of the late former C. Brewer & Co. honcho J.W.A. “Doc” Buyers. Tribune-Herald.

Ken Wood is leaving his post as CEO of North Hawaii Community Hospital, but he isn’t leaving the hospital just yet. West Hawaii Today.

State parks officials are attempting to terminate a permit that allows a business to operate a coastal tour on Hawaii island after the death of a 15-year-old New York boy who was swept out to sea during a guided visit. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui food scientist Mike Abrams and partner Chuck Mason have launched Cappuccino Crunch, a line of toasted rice flour cereals for caffeine lovers. Pacific Business News.

The Maui-based food scientist says he's created the world's first coffee-infused cereals. Maui News.

A Final Environmental Impact Statement has been filed for the development of a public high school in Kihei. Maui Now.

Hawaii and the federal government are starting a program to reduce the amount of sediment, fertilizer and other pollution that flows into the ocean and harms coral reefs off West Maui. Associated Press.

Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge visitor center and Kanuimanu Ponds public viewing area will be open to the public on Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Maui News.

Kauai

The state paid almost $400,000 in worker's compensation benefits for a former Kauai resident who has been dead for more than 20 years. Hawaii News Now.

More than $1.3 million in federal funds for storm-related projects has made its way to Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

County Parks and Recreation Director Lenny Rapozo told the Kaua‘i County Council last week the administration has spent $34.29 million so far in “the path that goes by the coast.” The total length of already finished work is 6.8 miles. The entire path is projected to cover 23.8 miles from Anahola to Ahukini. Garden Island.

Twenty years ago, Hurricane Iniki roared across our islands. The eye of the storm passed directly over Kauai, causing catastrophic damage. Hawaii News Now.

Some people never got to go home after Hurricane ‘Iniki battered the island, said Dickie Chang, a former head concierge and head of guest services at the Westin Kaua‘i Resort, now the Kaua‘i Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Garden Island.

There's no quick fix for Coco Palms resort on Kauai. The hotel which has been in disrepair since Hurricane Iniki devastated the Garden Island 20 years ago remains in shambles. KHON2.

Lanai

The billionaire who purchased most of the Hawaiian island of Lanai will be inheriting a water dispute that has already gone before the state Supreme Court without a final resolution. Associated Press.

Kilauea Volcano gets its own quarter, crowds fight new state land development corporation, Kauai budget out of balance, state Senate committee to look into UH blunders, 579 burials found at Honolulu church construction site, Maui hospital mulls partnership with Banner Health, Supreme Court dismisses election protest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii volcano quarter courtesy photo

The United States Mint is unveiling a new quarter depicting a Hawaii volcano eruption. Associated Press.

At a rain-drenched ceremony near the national park’s visitor center, Superintendent Cindy Orlando, U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and David Croft, plant manager of the U.S. Mint in Denver, tipped their ceremonial calabashes and poured out $500 in newly minted quarters onto a koa platter, inaugurating the ceremonial rollout of what could be a red-hot collector’s item. Tribune-Herald.

Sen. Daniel Inouye joined U.S. Mint Plant Manager David Croft and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando Wednesday in launching the new Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Quarter. KITV4.

Environmentalists, Native Hawaiian leaders and University of Hawaii students crowded a state office building conference room Wednesday night to demand the repeal of the newly created Public Land Development Corp. Star-Advertiser.

The fledgling movement to abolish the Public Land Development Corporation caught fire Wednesday night during a public meeting in Honolulu about the draft rules to regulate the government agency charged with partnering with private companies to develop state lands. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of people showed up at a public hearing regarding proposed rules for the Public Land Development Corporation, formed under a new state law that would allow private development on public land. Hawaii News Now.

An overflow crowd gathered Wednesday night to protest a new law giving the state the ability to sell or lease public lands to developers. KHON2.

A special state Senate committee has been formed to look into recent management blunders at the University of Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Relief has begun to arrive for many Hawaii homeowners threatened by foreclosure under a settlement between the five largest U.S. mortgage lenders and the state and federal government. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii attorney general's office says consumers in the state could receive up to $300,000 in compensation under a nationwide settlement with three of the country's largest book publishers over price fixing allegations. Associated Press.

The state's embattled historic preservation division suffered another blow last week, with the Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that the agency had violated its own rules in allowing the city to begin construction on Honolulu’s rail project without completing an archaeological inventory survey for the entire route first. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's visitor industry continued to heat up in July, with arrivals and spending gains contributing to what continues to be one of the hottest summers ever. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced the release of more than $52.5 million for Capital Improvement Projects last week, including funds for a $2.2 million Transpacific Cable Project. Maui Now.

Kawika Crowley, the Republican nominee for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional seat, pledged Wednesday to put up a strong fight against Democrat Tulsi Gabbard despite being homeless and receiving no financial support from his party. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

An excavation team has found nearly 600 sets of remains in the very spot where the historic Kawaiahao Church plans to build a multi-purpose center, and Hawaiian activists say it's one of the largest burial discoveries in state history. Hawaii News Now.

It would cost $2.5 million to return TheBus service to what it was before the city began imposing cuts earlier this year, but routes could not be restored until March 2013 even if money were available, according to Wayne Yoshioka, director of the city Department of Transportation Services. Star-Advertiser.

The parallels between Hawaii Superferry and Honolulu rail are obvious. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation … or HART … has stopped all new construction on the City’s $5.2 billion rail project. But as HPR’s Wayne Yoshioka reports … HART reached out to business and community leaders yesterday with a message of reassurance. Hawaii Public Radio.

The city of Honolulu chose to include only two single-toilet restrooms designated for bus drivers only in the new $19 million Alapai Street Transit Station. Honolulu Advertiser.

Ka’ena Point, Oahu’s wild and windswept northwestern tip, is the ancestral gathering place for souls of the dead, from where they jump off into the next world. Now it has new resonance as the first piece of land in Hawaii that is being allowed to revert to the way our islands were thousands of years ago, when there were no people, the only mammals were seals and bats, and tens of millions of seabirds flocked in from all over the world to nest.  Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii

The Hawaii Supreme Court has dismissed a Puna candidate’s election protest, the third of four protests filed in the wake of the Aug. 11 primary election that the court has dismissed. West Hawaii Today.

The state would spend more than half a billion dollars in upgrades at Kona International Airport in the next decade, if it constructs all of the projects listed in a recently released draft environmental impact statement. West Hawaii Today.

Cleaning up the broken pipes, metal waste and other debris from the ocean off the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority is more than a pipe dream for Mark Barville. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island delegate Dylan Nonaka has been given a stage role on the final night of the Republican National Convention. Stephens Media.

A new open market on a Hawaiian Home Lands parcel in Puna has been ordered to shut down by the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Hawaii Health Systems Maui Regional System Board of Directors has begun discussions with Banner Health, one of the country's largest nonprofit hospital systems, to explore a public-private partnership for medical facilities including Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui News.

Maui and the state overall continued to enjoy healthy gains in the tourism sector last month. Maui News.

The Grand Wailea could be under new ownership before the end of the year as the hotel's owners seek to auction off assets and emerge from bankruptcy protection. Maui News.

Kauai

“There is no money missing,” was the mantra in Council Chair Jay Furfaro’s presentation to the rest of his colleagues at the Kaua‘i County Council meeting Wednesday, when the council’s Committee of the Whole unanimously approved two bills to address an imbalance in the budget for Fiscal Year 2013, which started July 1. Garden Island.

The Kauai County Council is working on two bills aimed at correcting a budget imbalance that occurred during the fiscal year 2013 budget deliberation process. KHON2.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission on Tuesday gave the County Department of Water the green light to proceed with drilling for an exploratory well and with the construction of two half-million-gallon concrete water tanks in Kapahi. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Community College surpassed the 1,500-student mark Monday, said Cammie Matsumoto, director of community relations and special projects. Garden Island.

Molokai

George Peabody, editor of the Molokai Advertiser-News, emailed several members of the Martin Luther King Jr. Coalition, the African American Heritage Foundation of Maui, and the Hawaii NAACP on Aug. 25 requesting copies of their birth certificates. Civil Beat.

Hawaii poll supports preschool, health network gets $61.8M federal grant, jobless claims down, hotel occupancy up, new Waikiki hotel wins zoning, mayoral candidate's daughter burns foe's signs with bong, Kauai wants solar loophole, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii keiki (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A new poll shows that the majority of the Hawaii public supports a state-funded preschool program — and lawmakers are hoping to make it happen as soon as 2014. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Health Connector has received a $61.8 million federal grant to help set up a health insurance exchange in the Islands. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii jobless claims have fallen to 12,218 in the newest weekly report, including first-time claims that fell to 1,404 statewide. Both figures, actual tallies of claims filed last week, are the lowest since 2008. Hawaii News Now.

Initial unemployment claims in Hawaii dropped 18 percent last week, compared to a year ago, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii hotels average 85 percent full in the newest weekly survey, with 93 percent occupancy on Oahu offsetting lower figures on neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

Eleven researchers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association spent part of their summer in the nature preserve trying to kill galapagos sharks, the species they say is the main culprit in the demise of baby monk seals. Civil Beat.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle this week spent more than $90,000 on 395 spots that are airing through the end of the week on KHON, KITV, KITV subsidiary MeTV, KGMB, KHNL and Time Warner cable networks such as CNN, ESPN and TNT. Civil Beat.

Tea Parties Across the Nation - Including Hawaii - Under IRS Scrutiny. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawai’i Tourism Authority is hosting its annual conference this week … amid encouraging news of double-digit increases in visitor arrivals and spending. Hawaii Public Radio.

Even 92 years after it was passed, the Jones Act shipping laws remain contentious in Hawaii — especially when you put the law’s supporters and the people who want to sink it in the same room. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for Aug. 23. Associated Press.

Oahu

A plan to build Waikiki's first new oceanfront hotel in more than 30 years prevailed in a zoning challenge Thursday, freeing the project to proceed after a nearly two-year skirmish before the city Zoning Board of Appeals. Star-Advertiser.

Three different projects on Oahu have each taken another step forward but not without some controversy. KHON2.

Twelve former students at Damien high school on Oahu have filed claims in a New York bankruptcy court alleging that they were sexually abused by clergy who were working at the private Catholic school in the 1960s, '70s and '80s. Star-Advertiser.

The public can expect to see a lot more of the two Honolulu City Prosecutor candidates between now and Nov. 6, whether it's sign-waving around Oahu or advertising on the radio. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's largest and most prominent synagogue will elect new leaders Sunday in a vote that represents a referendum on its beleaguered rabbi and the fortunes — and future — of Temple Emanu-El. Star-Advertiser.

A gun advocacy charity has filed a lawsuit against the city of Honolulu over deleted posts on the Honolulu Police Department’s Facebook page. Associated Press.

The Pacific Resource Partnership, a group highly critical of anti-rail mayoral candidate Ben Caye­tano during the primary election, is reassessing its strategy for the general election campaign and has not yet decided whether it will continue with negative ads against the former governor, the group’s executive director said Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii News Now has obtained photos showing two girls setting fire to a Ben Cayetano campaign sign. Kirk Caldwell has confirmed that one of the girls in the photo is his 18-year-old daughter, Maya.Hawaii News Now.

A defeated Honolulu City Council candidate contends his opponent broke campaign laws by posting signs too close to polling places on primary election day as a way to influence undecided voters in the district, many of whom are seniors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The second-place finisher in a four-way race for the state House District 6 Democratic primary has filed a petition with the Hawaii Supreme Court seeking a recount or a new election for the open Kailua-Kona seat. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Island’s economy continues its slow climb out of recession, thanks largely to a relatively quick recovery of its tourism industry, according to economist Leroy O. Laney. Tribune-Herald.

Hunters have killed three axis deer through a program aimed at eliminating their presence on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Public Works’ Traffic Division announced it is continuing to convert streetlights from the current low-pressure sodium lamps to light-emitting diode lamps (LED) this week. Tribune-Herald.

South Kona couple opens glassblowing business. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii tournament angler fought a 12-foot, half-ton marlin in the Pacific Ocean for more than four hours before she and her teammates got the monster fish out of the water — but she missed out on the glory and prize money. Associated Press.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources is warning the public to keep out of the nearshore and ocean waters off Pahoa, due to the presence of tiger sharks that are being attracted to a decomposing 50-foot long sperm whale carcass. KITV4.

Maui

A Maui ranch owner pleaded guilty to a federal misdemeanor Thursday for illegally selling axis deer and Mouflon cross-bred sheep and letting a person who did not have a hunting license pay to kill the animals. Star-Advertiser.

After years of political wrangling and legal machinations, the Maui County Council voted unanimously Tuesday to approve disposing of the controversial "Montana Beach" home on the north side of Baldwin Beach Park. Maui News.

A human skull found near Waiohuli Hawaiian Homes in Kula was to be turned over to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources after it was determined to be from a child who died more than 50 years ago, police said. Maui News.

A Wailuku woman was ordered to pay back $23,710 she stole over a two-year period while she worked for the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.Maui News.

More than 10,000 ready-to-eat meals are now in the hands of Maui County disaster response organizations, thanks to a donation by the federal government. Maui News.

Last week at the Ninth Circuit Court's Judicial Conference on the island of Maui, judges and lawyers from across the country were told by social media and legal experts they would have to be careful about what they post on sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

Following a failed attempt earlier this year to have the state Senate address a loophole in a state law, which mandates new homes to be fitted with solar water heating systems. The Kaua‘i County Council is now discussing whether to ask state lawmakers in the 2013 Legislature to amend Act 204 to bring it closer to its intent. Garden Island.

The Hanalei Bridge received much attention for its 100th birthday Thursday. Garden Island.

HGEA trades signs for spoons to help feed people. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai Ranch has sold 3.2 acres in Kaunakakai to the University of Hawaii, according to ranch owner Molokai Properties Ltd. Maui News.

The DOE will hold eight public scoping meetings on six islands from Sept. 11–20 to gather input on wind energy development . The Molokai meeting will be held on Wed. Sept. 19 at the Mitchell Pauole Center at 5:30 p.m. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii reaction mixed on Affordable Care Act ruling, new state office replaces junior kindergarten, Honolulu releases details on $1.55B rail plan, almost half of Big Island properties in foreclosure, Ellison closes on Lanai purchase, RIMPAC brings 20k military, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Early childhood Coordinator Terry Lock and Gov. Abercrombie courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed legislation Thursday that ends junior kindergarten in 2014, and establishes a state Office of Early Learning to begin phasing in a publicly funded preschool network. Terry Lock, who has been serving as the state's first early childhood coordinator, was appointed by the governor to head the early learning office. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bet correctly that the Supreme Court would uphold the bulk of President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul, but the state plans a full analysis to see how the lengthy ruling affects plans to implement the law. Associated Press.

In the home state of President Barack Obama, government officials and healthcare executives were all smiles Thursday over the U.S. Supreme Court decision favoring Obama’s national health insurance initiative. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii government and health care industry leaders applauded Thursday's U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding President Barack Obama's historic health care reform act and pledged to work across agencies to tie in and blend the federal standards with Hawaii's own landmark legislation. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s top government officials celebrated Thursday as word came down that the U.S. Supreme Court had upheld the major tenants of President Barack Obama’s health-care reform legislation. Civil Beat.

Not long after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act on Thursday, the members of Hawaii's congressional delegation — all Democrats — were in unison in welcoming the surprise decision. Civil Beat.

Hawaii insurers have said they have been implementing the law's provisions as required and that the Supreme Court's ruling was unlikely to change anything. Pacific Business News.

Health insurance is a necessity for all, but mandates that citizens buy insurance or pay a penalty may be cause for concern, Big Island residents and visitors said Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

Regardless of what the Supreme Court decided, public opinion is split on Obamacare. Tribune-Herald.

Affordable Care Act's effects on Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

There was a round of applause by state leaders Thursday after the Supreme Court's ruling to uphold the President's Health Care Law. KHON2.

The world's largest international maritime training exercise starts Friday in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for June 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

With just over a month left until the primary election, Honolulu mayoral candidates and PACs — including two newcomers — are ramping up their TV ad spending. Civil Beat.

A change in city bus routes is leading some riders to switch to driving their cars and overloading buses on some routes to the point where they have to bypass people at bus stops. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Rail Transit officials marked a major milestone today in their effort to secure 1.55 billion dollars in federal funding for the city’s largest public works project, ever. Hawaii Public Radio.

Thursday, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) submitted an application to the Federal Transit Administration for a full funding grant agreement, the first step in securing up to $1.55 billion in federal subsidies for the city's controversial rail project. KITV4.

The city of Honolulu Thursday released details of its formal application for $1.55 billion in federal funding for the Honolulu rail line, the submittal of which rail advocates described as one of the most significant milestones yet for the controversial project. Star-Advertiser.

A seemingly innocuous statement by one of the leading candidates for Honolulu mayor has reignited a blaze of accusations and concerns about a potential merger of the city's Fire and Emergency Services departments. Civil Beat.

Three different groups gathered in Kunia to protest Monsanto. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii Island has more than 500 foreclosures pending in the 3rd Circuit Court, appraisers say. Compare that figure with the 1,289 active real estate listings the county has, appraiser Larry Baird said. West Hawaii Today.

New claims for unemployment compensation on the Big Island dropped last week, while total claims, including repeat filers, remained low. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A “Permitting Open House” will be held on July 6 by Mayor Alan Arakawa’s Permit Process Improvement Team (PPIT) taskforce and the public is encouraged to attend this free event. Maui Now.

Last Fourth of July, the Maui County Fire Department responded to 73 fireworks-related calls - about the average number for the past three years. Maui News.

Kauai

A cross-cultural event recently celebrated the return of traditional food sourcing and preparation in the interest of health and heritage. Garden Island.

Voters will not decide in the November elections what “shall” really means when it’s spelled out in the Kaua‘i County Charter. Garden Island.

Lanai

The third-richest man in America, Oracle Corp. co-founder and CEO Larry Ellison, has completed his acquisition of Lanai, seller Castle & Cooke Inc. said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

The sale of most of Lanai and its assets to billionaire Larry Ellison was successfully completed, seller Castle & Cooke Inc. announced Thursday morning. Maui News.

Castle & Cooke announced today the completion of sale of its Lāna‘i assets by David Murdock to Lawrence J. Ellison to Oracle CEO Larry Ellison. Maui Now.

Hawaii not complying with EPA pesticide mandates, Case-Hirono debate goes radio, tax collections up, Honolulu sewer project nearing completion, state-based insurance exchange coming, military to use biofuels, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai, Honolulu (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii is the only state that isn't complying with new federal regulations that increase oversight of pesticides that are sprayed in and around waterways, according to officials from the Environmental Protection Agency. Civil Beat.

In the liveliest exchanges so far in their Democratic primary campaign, U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, a liberal, used a Hawaii Public Radio debate to link the moderate former U.S. Rep. Ed Case to national Republicans. Case cast Hirono as an out-of-step progressive who is more of a follower than a leader. Star-Advertiser.

Folks following the contest between Ed Case and Mazie Hirono by know now the familiar contours of this race. Civil Beat.

U.S. Senate candidates square off Ed Case, Mazie Hirono debate one another. KITV4.
http://www.kitv.com/U-S-Senate-candidates-square-off/-/8906042/14840912/-/66ev9sz/-/index.html

Download audio: HPR's political reporter Wayne Yoshioka moderated the live debate between Mazie Hirono and Ed Case. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie says Hawaii is the first state to declare its intent to develop a state-based insurance exchange — a key component of federal health care overhaul. Associated Press.

As the U.S. Supreme Court weighs the legality of President Obama’s national health care initiative, a new Hawaii nonprofit agency is spending $15.4 million to put the plan in action here. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii tax collections rose by 8.5 percent for the first 11 months of the state’s fiscal year, with taxes on the tourism industry rising by more than 13 percent, the state Department of Taxation said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

Next month, in naval exercises off the coast of Hawaii, five U.S. warships will make history: They will be the first to use biofuels to power their huge turbines, as well as the jet planes screaming off a carrier’s deck and helicopters hovering overhead. Wall Street Journal.

A world without HECO. That’s the vision of a new report out by Henry Curtis, executive director of environmental advocacy organization, Life of the Land. Civil Beat.

Solar installations in Hawaii rose 45 percent in the first quarter of 2012 from the same period a year earlier, according to a report from an industry trade group that is forecasting continued strong growth this year. Star-Advertiser.

Off the Beat: When Hawaii Democrats Eat Their Own. Civil Beat.

A new poll commissioned by the Humane Society of the United States suggests a majority of Hawaii residents support a ban on collecting reef fish for aquariums. Associated Press.

Oahu
Two temporary sewer pipes installed in the Ala Wai Canal after the massive 2006 sewage line break and spill are being removed this week as the city nears completion of a new $46 million pipeline beneath the canal, Mayor Peter Carlisle announced Wednesday. Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle Wednesday announced that the Beachwalk Force Main sewer project in Waikiki is nearing completion. Hawaii News Now.

The city said it is investigating why some outdoor emergency sirens sounded this morning in what officials called a malfunction. No emergency exists, the city Department of Emergency Management said. Star-Advertiser.

This is the year that Oahu's future could literally be set in concrete. Hawaii Independent.

The Department of Transportation is going ahead with its restriping project, which would add a fourth lane in both directions to a portion of the H-1 and lower the speed limit by five miles per hour. KHON2.

Helen Geracimos Chapin, a retired Hawaii Pacific University professor who chronicled the history of newspapers in Hawaii, died Saturday in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

Mall developer DeBartolo Development LLC has named a few retailers that will occupy the initial phase of an envisioned $350 million regional shopping center in East Kapolei, though construction of the project called Ka Makana Ali‘i has been pushed back to early next year. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Lance Armstrong was banned from competition in triathlons Wednesday after the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency brought formal doping charges against the former cyclist, who was planning to compete in the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii this fall. Pacific Business News.

This election year, Big Island voters may see a few more new names than usual on their ballot. Tribune-Herald.

Questions over jurisdiction are keeping a requested update on the status of the county Elections Office off the County Council agenda, at least for now. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa is reviving plans to build a beachfront parkway along West Maui's coastline from Puamana to the pali. Maui News.

Owners of Pukalani Superette voiced their opposition Tuesday to the proposed Upcountry town center near their store, saying that the development would create more traffic and that their preference was for the land to be used for agricultural purposes. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Museum’s Living Treasures program was created so people have an opportunity to appreciate and honor the individuals selected for the Living Treasures program while they are here to know how much difference they make to our island’s quality of life. Garden Island.

Molokai

Tucked away inland among the forests in Waialua Valley exists a farm that claims no fields, no pests, no weeds and yet still produces over 50 varieties of produce on only one acre of land. Molokai Dispatch.

Native Hawaiians on Molokai will get an opportunity to provide feedback to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) at a community forum as well as a regular Board of Trustees meeting. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii mulls school bus route cuts, state upgrading weather radar, state pension fund moves back to black, women sue to marry Hawaii prison inmates, Kauai horse cruelty case dismissed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

School bus courtesy photo

The state says it hopes to know by early June which school bus routes will likely have to be cut in the coming school year to cover a $16 million shortfall for student transportation. Star-Advertiser.

School will be over in a week and district officials still can't tell parents how their kids will get to and from school next year. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s school system has yet to decide on an alternative to cutting bus service next year for thousands of students in order to make up a $17 million transportation budget shortfall. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii will have two acting governors this week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii's teacher union members begin voting this week on a contract they rejected earlier this year, despite warnings from the state that the agreement is no longer valid. Associated Press.

The state's largest public pension fund moved back into positive territory for the fiscal year as it soared 8.3 percent last quarter to boost its total assets to a near-rec­ord $11.5 billion. Star-Advertiser.


Come July 1, any overtime earned by new hires in state and county government will not count toward their pension benefits. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Medical Service Association recorded a $12.8 million profit in the three months ended March 31, its highest first-quarter gain since 2004. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's biggest HMO and its biggest health insurer both report profits from the first quarter, signs of good financial health for the two nonprofits. Hawaii News Now.

Who's Making Big Bucks Working for Hawaii's U.S. Senate Candidates? Civil Beat.

When severe weather strikes Hawaii, flash flooding is a big concern. But an upgrade to the state's radars could help pinpoint problem areas before the rain falls. KITV4.

The Hawaii Air National Guard was waiting on orders Tuesday to see whether its F-22 Raptor fighters would be affected after Defense Secretary Leon Panetta imposed new flight restrictions — the latest setback for the costly and controversial jet. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard

A progressive veterans political action committee that seeks to elect Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans to Congress has committed $75,000 for ads in Hawaii supporting Tulsi Gabbard in her bid for the 2nd Congressional District. Star-Advertiser.

Four women who want to marry men who are state prison inmates are suing state Public Safety Director Jodie Mae­saka-Hirata and two other Public Safety officials for repeatedly denying their fiances’ marriage applications. Star-Advertiser.

A lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Honolulu by the ACLU of Hawaii, alleges that Public Safety Director Jodie Maesaka-Hirata, mainland prison branch administrator Shari Kimoto and mainland prison contract monitor Jeanette Baltero discriminated against four women who applied numerous times to be married but were denied being allowed to wed their fiancés. Civil Beat.

Four women are suing the State because they've been told they cannot get married to their fiances, who are in prison. KHON2.

The Hawaii Environmental Council will consider loosening regulations on geothermal exploration Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

The Omidyar Fellows program, a leadership development program sponsored by eBay founder turned philanthropist Pierre Omidyar, was launched yesterday under the newly created Hawai‘i Leadership Forum. Maui Now.

Oahu

The 800-member Honolulu Fire Department Retirees Association has endorsed former Gov. Ben Cayetano in the race for Hono­lulu mayor, while campaign rival Kirk Caldwell picked up another union endorsement. Star-Advertiser.

Construction on Honolulu's rail system is now underway, with proponents promising 10,000 jobs ahead from the project and trickle-down spending. KHON2.

A 10-page memo on the city's planned $5.3 billion elevated steel on steel rail project, created by the city's rail authority, and distributed by the Department of Planning and Permitting to city employees, has some council members and rail opponents questioning the city administration's motives. Hawaii Reporter.

Wayne Yoshioka visited a congested Mo’ili’ili neighborhood today…to see what’s being done to make streets safer for children. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

Amid a discussion about the best way to deal with the threat of a Hilo landfill closure, the Hawaii County Council voted 8-0 to prohibit hauling of East Hawaii garbage to West Hawaii, except under an emergency declaration by the mayor. West Hawaii Today.

Two proposed amendments to the county charter received just enough votes Tuesday to survive another round of County Council action, when each passed with the minimum six votes needed to keep it alive. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council slashed a $75,000 Food Basket donation to $50,000 and then killed it, opting instead to spend the scarce funds on new computers and for the legislative branch. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Adrianne Heely was praised for her legal skills as well as for her volunteer work in the community, as she was sworn in Monday afternoon as a 2nd Circuit District Family Court judge. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council Committee of the Whole approved the administration’s budget for Fiscal Year 2013, reflecting more than $166.4 million in operational expenses and $78.3 million in capital improvement projects. Garden Island.

After nearly two years of litigation in the 16-count animal-cruelty case involving horses, a 5th Circuit Court judge ruled the state has exceeded its time to bring the case to trial and dismissed the case, which was set for jury trial on May 29. Garden Island.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs announced Tuesday that its non-profit subsidiary, Hi‘ipoi LLC, will transition ownership and management of Makaweli Poi Mill to a Kaua‘i community organization. Garden Island.

In a 3-2 ruling the Hawaii Supreme Court has upheld the petty misdemeanor conviction of a man who contended that he was entitled as a Native Hawaiian practitioner to live in a closed area of a state park in Kala­lau Valley on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) will conduct a public information meeting in Kaunakakai on Wednesday, May 16, to provide information on planned construction activities for improvements to the commuter ferry (Molokai to Maui) and the impact to harbor operations. Molokai Dispatch.