Navy names destroyer for Inouye, Obama senior prom photos on Time, Ellison's ultra-luxury Lanai hotel approved, neighbor island economies catching up, Hawaiian Home Lands critics skeptical, vog spikes doctor visits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Arleigh Burke-class destroyer at Pearl Harbor, courtesy U.S. Navy

The Navy destroyer USS Daniel Inouye will be sailing by mid-2018, carrying with it the name of a Japanese-American from Hawaii and evoking the heroism of a Medal of Honor recipient and the statesmanship of a 50-year U.S. senator. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Navy plans to name one of its ships after the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii. Associated Press.

The Department of Defense today announced that the Navy will name an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer after the late US Senator Daniel K. Inouye. Maui Now.

The Navy announced Thursday it will name one of its next two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in honor of the late U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye. Garden Island.

The U.S. Navy names a destroyer for the late Sen. Daniel K. Inouye and the delegation begins to make its own mark, scoring some legislative successes in Congress this week. Civil Beat.

Despite the director's pledges to make tangible progress within six months on proposed changes, critics remained skeptical that recommendations contained in a recent audit of the state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will lead to any meaningful reform in an agency long plagued with management and oversight problems.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is on track to join 27 other states that place annual inspections of all long-term care facilities on their respective websites, state long-term care ombudsman John McDermott said. Civil Beat.

Hawaii doctors are seeing more residents suffering from allergies and asthma because thick vog is aggravating their ailments. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Brian Schatz announced Thursday that he's introducing legislation to fulfill a goal of the late-Sen. Daniel K. Inouye and retired Sen. Daniel Akaka. The bill would create a national memorial honoring Native American, Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native veterans. Civil Beat.

The neighbor island economies are continuing to gain on Oahu, setting the stage for the statewide economic expansion to continue through at least 2015, according to a forecast released today by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island and the other neighbor islands are catching up steadily to the economic recovery first experienced on Oahu, according to a 42-page report released today by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. West Hawaii Today.

Are neighbor islands finally ready to catch the wave of recovery? A new University of Hawaii forecast says it's already happening, and gives a timetable for prosperity. Hawaii News Now.

Obama’s senior prom photos hit Time magazine. Kelli Allman (nee McCormack), a 1981 Punahou School graduate, saved her yearbooks, and they came in handy when Time magazine called to obtain “exclusively” Barack Obama’s 1979 senior prom photos, which appear in this week’s edition. The magazine identifies them as “previously unpublished photos.” Star-Advertiser.

State 5/24. Associated Press.

Oahu

The public got its first look at massive development proposal for Kakaako on Thursday. KITV4.

Imagine Kakaako being more like Denver or Portland. That’s what the Hawaii Community Development Authority envisions. They are sharing that vision with the public who are not completely sold on the ideas. KHON2.

One of the biggest gripes the Honolulu City Council has about Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s operating budget was that it didn’t do enough to restore bus service. Civil Beat.

While canoe paddlers usually spend the final weeks of May fine-tuning their technique, form and timing, a pesky wastewater problem in one of the sport's most heavily used venues has canoe clubs and organizations focusing on flushing out an answer. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu knows who secretly carted in cement and steel and illegally built a skateboard bowl on city park property on the North Shore, and how much it will cost to tear it down. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Problems might delay opening of new dorm. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County will have to go back into arbitration over a Waikoloa workforce housing project contract, the state Supreme Court ruled Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Young Brothers’ cargo volume between Honolulu and six neighbor island ports dropped nearly 4 percent during the first quarter of this year, a report issued Thursday said. West Hawaii Today.

Lehman Brothers was the top bidder earlier this week in the auction of 5,800 acres of land in Ka‘u that went into foreclosure. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
Real property tax rates will increase beginning July 1 after the Maui County Council on Wednesday morning approved a resolution setting the higher rates for fiscal 2014. Maui News.

While developers of the 670-acre Honua'ula golf community have made efforts to meet a number of the 30 conditions set by the Maui County Council when the project's zoning was approved in 2008, some community groups said on Tuesday that many critical conditions have still not been met. Maui News.

Maui Dry Dock & Boat Storage, a consortium of five commercial boat operators, is seeking a 55-year lease on about 1.2 acres of state land adjacent to the Kahului Boat Ramp to develop a vessel haul out, trailer storage and other facilities. Maui News.

A 65-year-old Pearl City woman is accusing the Salvation Army of transferring a sexual predator from Oahu to Maui more than 50 years ago after he sexually assaulted her as a child. Maui News.

"It's different when your name is on the door," said freshman Hawai'i State Rep. Mark Kaniela Ing, recalling his first term on the job. Maui Weekly.

Kauai

Early education and transportation infrastructure improvements were some of the main achievements of Kauai’s delegation at this year’s Legislature, according to state lawmakers. Garden Island.

In celebration of its 20th anniversary and in an effort to give back to the communities it serves, AdvoCare International, a health and wellness company based in Plano, Texas, recently contributed $20,000 to Kauai Independent Food Bank. Garden Island.

Lanai

The Lanai Community Plan Advisory Committee has approved plans for a new ultra-luxury hotel and to set aside 200 acres for industrial development, committee member Alberta de Jetley told PBN.

Hawaii military buildup delayed, new contract for Hawaii teachers, audit raps Hawaiian Home Lands, Hawaii mayor mulls waste-to-energy incinerator, Pfleuger manslaughter trial date to be set in dam failure, Ellison not only billionaire with an island, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Marines at Pohakuloa Training Area Hawaii (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Marine Corps’ top brass has told Congress that sequestration could slow the Marines movement from Okinawa to Guam, a move that is expected to also bring as many as 2,700 additional Marines to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Public school teachers voted Wednesday to approve a $330 million, four-year contract that will tie their pay raises in part to student performance. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s public school teachers overwhelmingly approved a new labor agreement on Wednesday night, their first in nearly two years since their last contract expired. Associated Press.

A year after teachers rejected their last tentative labor contract, the moment has finally arrived: pay raises and improved healthcare benefits are on their horizon. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's public school teachers have overwhelmingly approved a new contract. Hawaii News Now.

The failure of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to adequately address a growing loan delinquency problem among its Native Hawaiian beneficiaries poses a solvency risk to the agency, according to the state auditor. Star-Advertiser.

Lax management, millions of dollars in delinquent loans and a reluctance to terminate lessees who are chronically behind in payments. That's the picture painted by an audit released Wednesday of the Department of Hawaiian Homelands and the commission charged with overseeing a program that is supposed to help thousands of Native Hawaiians. KITV4.

State lawmakers are discussing whether to fold a proposed school readiness program into the state Department of Human Services until voters can decide whether the state should use public money for private preschool. Star-Advertiser.

Nine state lawmakers were tapped this week to resolve significant differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill to make Hawaii’s shield law permanent. Civil Beat.

State legislators are moving toward creating a task force to consider the implications of privatizing some of the state’s public hospitals. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s congressional delegation this week pushed for more support of a measure that would provide funds to train health care providers in rural areas. West Hawaii Today.

New Immigration Proposal Is Mixed Bag For Hawaii Families. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is looking at consulting more closely with the UH administration on salaries for new hires. Star-Advertiser.

The Democratic Party of Hawaii is looking to sue the state because it doesn't like the way primary elections are run. Civil Beat.

Taxpayers have until Monday, April 22 to file their Hawaii state taxes this year. Maui Now.

Oahu

The City and County of Honolulu is moving ahead with its new $68.9 million Joint Traffic Management Center building at the corner of South King Street and Alapai Street near the recently completed $20 million, 411-stall parking structure. Pacific Business News.

The city likely won't be able to begin enforcement of a new "sidewalk nuisance" law until the summer, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday after the City Council unanimously approved the bill. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council passed a bill yesterday aimed at clearing public sidewalks.  The unanimous vote by the 9-member Council advances the measure to the Mayor who is expected to sign it into law. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu City Council approved George Atta as the new director of the department of Permitting and Planning Wednesday. But as recently as two months ago, George Atta's name was on a preliminary draft environmental review for the New Hope Leeward Church project  planned for Kunia farmland. KITV4.

The Honolulu City Council today adopted Bill 3 Relating to the Disposal of Weeds, Garbage, Trash and Waste from Property. The bill raises the maximum fine for property owners who don't maintain their properties which include the non-removal of trash and overgrown weeds. Hawaii Reporter.

#noonecares. That harsh tweet from University of Hawaii athletic director Ben Jay has sparked a lot of chatter about the poor state of facilities on campus. KHON2.

Hawaii

A waste-to-energy incinerator has moved up as the best solution to Hawaii County’s mounting garbage problem. West Hawaii Today.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs could be getting into the geothermal business. OHA’s Board of Trustees today will discuss whether to partner with Honolulu-based Innovations Development Group as it seeks to win a contract for providing up to 50 megawatts of geothermal electricity to island residents. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers on Wednesday cleared the financial hurdles out of the way for Kulani Correctional Facility to reopen on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

Highway 137, AKA the "Red Road," is red no more. Tribune-Herald.

Proponents of making the trail leading to Papaikou Mill beach public urged Hawaii County Council members on Tuesday to get the process rolling by adding funding for an appraisal to the county budget. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The budget for the staff and operation of the Mayor’s Office is proposed to rise 15 percent next fiscal year — including two new administrative assistant positions — according to presentations made before the County Council’s Budget and Finance Committee on Monday. Civil Beat.

Two of the three sets of moving walkways in the Kahului Airport terminal will be fully operational again by the end of May, a state Department of Transportation official said. Maui News.

Despite only light winds passing through Maui’s Central Valley last Thursday, the wind turbines at Kaheawa Wind Power were turning and cranking out electricity. Maui News.

Kauai

A state judge is scheduled Thursday to set the date for retired auto dealer James Pflueger’s trial on seven counts of manslaughter for each of the seven people swept to their deaths when the Ka Loko dam breached on Kauai seven years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Taxpayers’ money thrown into trash studies just keeps accumulating. A $1.8 million contract with off-island consultant AECOM to produce an environmental impact study for the island’s next landfill includes two updates to the Kaua‘i County Council — one was held in January, and the next is scheduled for later this year. Garden Island.

Kauai Activist Finds A Way To Make The Streets Safer. Civil Beat.

The first of two defendants accused of killing a goat was sentenced to felony probation in 5th Circuit Court Wednesday. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the CEO of Oracle Corp. and majority owner of Lanai, isn’t the only billionaire to own an island. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu rail gets federal boost, tax collections up 10.6%, ethics chief keeps job, bird poop bill advances, tax hikes in store for Hawaii County, more flights to Hawaii, Honolulu may ban smoking at all city parks, defamation lawsuit seeks to add online commenter, Ellison top-paid public CEO, Schatz builds Senate war chest, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2011 Honolulu rapid transit groundbreaking, HART photo

Under President Barack Obama's budget proposal released Wednesday, Honolulu's future elevated rail system would get its full federal funding for 2014 — a move that local proponents say shows the project is in good health. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she's concerned about cuts to missile defense as Hawaii and the rest of the country face direct and heightened threats from North Korea. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz raised more than $1.1 million in the past three months for his election campaign next year, a warning flare to other Democrats who are thinking about challenging him in the primary. Star-Advertiser.

State tax collections are up 10.6 percent through the first nine months of the fiscal year, the state Department of Taxation announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers met at the state capitol yesterday for several hours for the second “crossover” of the 60-day working session. They debated and voted on bills before the legislation passed third reading in their respective Houses. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Ethics Commission on Wednesday gave Leslie Kondo, its executive director, a vote of confidence after the commission’s former executive director asked that he be fired. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers this session are close to passing a bill that would make feral bird feeding a public health misdemeanor. Star-Advertiser.

House Finance Chair Sylvia Luke and Senate Ways and Means Chair David Ige have announced that the first conference committee meeting on the state budget will be held on Thursday, April 11, 9:30 a.m. in room 309 at the State Capitol. Hawaii Reporter.

An online tool that predicts where and when vog may move into your neighborhood is in jeopardy because of a lack of funding. KITV4.

Homeowners with cesspools and septic tanks may breathe freely now that lawmakers have killed a bill that would have required them to pay an annual fee for monitoring water quality. Maui News.

Wednesday was a busy day for Hawaii airline news, with announcements of a new international route to China, another route to the Philippines would end, and that Mainland carrier Virgin America would introduce service to Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

State 4/11. Associated Press.

Oahu

A state agency decided Wednesday to make $6 million in repairs to the historic but vacant Royal Brewery building in Kakaako and use it as a headquarters, after a lengthy and vigorous debate over whether the move makes good financial sense. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department refuses to release investigative details about an officer who was fired after sexually assaulting a Waikiki prostitute even though state law requires the information to be made public once a discharge is finalized. Civil Beat.

A new bill authored by City Councilman Ikaika Anderson would make smoking illegal at all city parks and beaches. Star-Advertiser.

The Slipper House, one of the few remaining original tenants at Ala Moana Center, will close at the end of May and the store's owner is going to great lengths to find jobs for his 19 employees. Hawaii News Now.

KITV takes a tour of new FBI building in Kapolei.

The population of Kalaeloa is envisioned to surge over the next two decades under a private developer's plan to add roughly 4,000 homes and 7,000 jobs to the West Oahu area that was once Barbers Point Naval Air Station. Star-Advertiser.

VIDEO: Shark surprises fishing kayaker in waters off Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii
Hawaii Island property owners could see a tax hike this year as the county struggles to meet rising costs with a budget diminished by a decrease in property values. West Hawaii Today.

The attorney for two Hawaii County employees suing former County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong and former Clerk Jamae Kawauchi is trying, again, to get information from an anonymous online commenter. West Hawaii Today.

A recent Hawaiian sovereignty protest at the Kamehameha the Great statue on Hilo’s Bayfront isn’t sitting well with some of the folks who worked to install the statue in 1997. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii’s Palamanui campus passed another hurdle late last week. West Hawaii Today.

A group that includes Big Island business and community leaders is asking the state House of Representatives to fund a permanent home for the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s pharmacy school. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Senate judiciary committee Chairman Clayton Hee has shot down two resolutions asking federal authorities to release Roger Christie from federal prison on bail. Associated Press.

Maui

Valley Island Welcomes Gov's Cabinet With Aloha. Civil Beat.

Ongoing milo tree thefts on Maui will prompt the temporary closure of parking at the area commonly referred to as “Baby Beach” in Spreckelsville, officials said. Maui Now.

Target Corp. has reached an agreement to build its fifth Hawaii store — and first on Maui — in a shopping center being built by a subsidiary of Safeway Inc. Pacific Business News.

Maui County is inviting bids from contractors to demolish and dispose of the Montana Beach house. May 1 is the deadline to submit bids. Maui News.

Kauai

The county Parks and Recreation Department presented Tuesday to the Kaua‘i County Council its plans for the upcoming fiscal year and operational budget, which is slightly smaller than its current budget. Garden Island.

Four monitors broadcasting an ocean safety video were dedicated Wednesday at the Lihu‘e Airport. Kaua‘i has seen 11 drownings this year, and community members hope the video will help spread water safety awareness. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison, the billionaire majority owner of Lanai, was the top paid CEO of a public company in the United States in 2012 with total earnings of $96.2 million, a 24 percent increase from 2011, according to CNN Money. Pacific Business News.

More housing, a skateboard park, keeping the shorelines development-free and restoring an old bowling alley were some of the ideas that came out of a two-day Lanai community planning workshop on the Pine Isle last week, county officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

Hawaii Senate passes budget, Hawaii could be drone testing ground, state addresses Oahu prison problems, Ellison holds briefings for Lanai residents, property tax hike for Kauai, bus fare hike for Hawaii County in the works, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki tourists (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

Hawaii hotels had a strong week for room rate increases last week when compared to the same week last year, while occupancy rates had modest increases on most of the major islands, according to the latest report from Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

The state Senate passed its version of the two-year budget Thursday, restoring funding slashed by the House for some of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's initiatives on early childhood education, cash incentives for entrepreneurs and information technology upgrades. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii state Senate on Thursday approved a $24 billion budget for the next two fiscal years, setting up talks with the House to work out differences in the proposals that fall short of what the governor wants. Associated Press.

Nearly two dozen individuals made personal contributions totaling at least $20,000 to dozens of candidates in the 2012 election, according to an analysis of newly available data provided by the Campaign Spending Commission. Civil Beat.

Fewer than 2 out of 10 Hawaii homeowners who are considering installing solar photovoltaic panels said they would do so if the availability of state renewable-energy tax credits was "reduced considerably or eliminated," according to a survey published Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Clayton Hee says online journalists will be protected from being forced to reveal their sources — but only if their publications meet the definition of a magazine. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s law is considered by media advocacy groups and working journalists as one of the best in the country. However the battle between Senate Judiciary Chair Clayton Hee and local journalists to keep the Journalism Shield Law in place did not end well for journalists at a Wednesday committee hearing. Hawaii Reporter.

FAA wants some more information on domestic drones and Hawaii could be a testing ground. Hawaii News Now.

Fracking may seem like a mainland issue, but in fact it could have major implications on Hawaii's plans to import liquefied natural gas as a way to lower electricity costs. Civil Beat.

State roundup for April 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

State corrections officials plan to install surveillance cameras in the security holding cell area at Oahu Community Correctional Center where a detainee allegedly killed another earlier this year. Star-Advertiser.

Recent incidents force Hawaii public safety officials to review policies and procedures to prevent more embarrassing incidents. Civil Beat.

A contract for a 12-hour-a-day ambulance service operating out of Halawa has been cut for budgetary reasons, but city Emergency Services Director Mark Rigg said he expects the void to be filled by next month. Star-Advertiser.

After more than two years shut down, the former Hawaii Medical Center West, and the people who want to fill its halls, is itching to reopen. KITV4.

Sears Portrait Studios close without warning to workers, customers. KHON2.

Navigation device maker TomTom found Honolulu to be the third-most traffic-congested city in North America, in its 2012 Congestion Index, released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Late-night spots blamed for Ala Moana crime surge. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A hike in county bus fares may be “unavoidable,” a transit official said Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, said Thursday during a tour of Hilo that he and Sen. Mazie Hirono are working well together to fill the void left after the death of longtime Sen. Daniel Inouye. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

It's a matter of guesswork to foretell the impact of pending public employee union negotiations and arbitration proceedings on Maui County's fiscal 2013-14 budget. Maui News.

The march to protest the agricultural practices of agribusiness giant Monsanto Corp. drew an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 activists to the street on Saturday, March 23. Maui Weekly.

Kauai

County Finance Director Steven Hunt presented Thursday to the Kaua‘i County Council the administration’s proposal to raise property tax rates to every class of taxpayers, except for homesteaders, who have a Permanent Home Use cap in place. This alone would bring nearly $12 million in additional revenues to the county. Garden Island.

Plans for a caretaker residence situated on a Kilauea property controlled by an easement are being opposed by the Kilauea Neighborhood Association. Garden Island.

Lanai

Larry Ellison’s expansion plans for Lanai will be detailed in community meetings on the Pineapple Isle on Thursday and Saturday nights. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

The main streets of Kaunakakai were closed Saturday morning as people young and old marched through town, carrying signs and shouting protests aimed toward Monsanto and calling for clear labeling of food made with genetically modified organisms (GMO). Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii Public Land Development Corp. faces key vote today, China to join Pacific war exercises, STD treatment not for gays, Schatz kicks off 2014 campaign, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Upolu Point (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Senate Ways and Means Committee is voting Monday on a bill to repeal the Public Land Development Corp., one of several key bills being debated this week. Associated Press.

Hawaii lawmakers want to counter the state’s high rates of chlamydia and gonorrhea by letting doctors treat the partners of patients who have the sexually transmitted diseases without first examining them. But only the straight ones. Civil Beat.

China has accepted an invitation from the United States to participate, for the first time, in Rim of the Pacific naval exercises off Hawaii next year, the Pentagon said. Star-Advertiser.

Although the federal Veterans Administration has been taking heat nationally for a growing backlog and increased times to process disabled veterans benefits, the office in VA Secretary Eric Shinseki’s home state of Hawaii has been doing particularly poorly in processing claims in a timely manner. Civil Beat.

A measure to create a full public funding option for election campaigns is making its way through the state Legislature this session. KITV4.

Hawaii added 2,300 construction jobs in February, 8 percent more than in January, giving it the second-highest percentage growth among all the states. Pacific Business News.

April is environmental month at the Independent. To kick it off, we’re showcasing our environmental panel from the 2013 Ideas Summit. Hawaii Independent.

The 2014 election is still a ways away but US Senator Brian Schatz is already gearing up for his re-election campaign. KHON2.

State roundup for April 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

The state Department of Agriculture hopes to break ground next year on a long-stymied Central Oahu farm subdivision where 150 acres of former sugar cane land in Kunia owned by the state would be leased to small farmers at attractive terms often absent in the private market. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Fire and Emergency Medical Services departments are still sorting the pros and cons of a controversial proposed merger that has been championed by Mayor Kirk Caldwell as a life and money-saving opportunity. Civil Beat.

A smoking ban at some of Oahu's most popular beaches will likely become law. KITV4.

District 7's city roads were found to be in pretty decent shape compared with most other districts on the island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Beginning the first week of May, the state Department of Transportation will begin putting the brakes on Highway 130 traffic by designating a new 45 mph zone along Hawaiian Paradise Park and Orchidland Estates. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has picked the former head of the county Department of Water Supply to fill a vacancy on a state commission. Big Island Now.

Kona’s homeless grateful for free holiday meal, fellowship. West Hawaii Today.

It's the pride of Hilo and officials say the Merrie Monarch now has a venue worthy of its international acclaim. Hawaii News Now.

The coronation pageant for the mo‘i kane and mo‘i wahine, the king and queen of the Merrie Monarch Festival, set the tone for Hilo’s busiest week of the year. Tribune-Herald

Maui

The decision by Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison's Island Air to pull out of Kapalua West Maui Airport at the end of May has left a void at the airport that Mokulele Airlines - the only other carrier currently with regular flights into the airport - will attempt to fill. Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa has clarified his plans for the future of recycling amid “confusion and concern” regarding the status of county-funded residential drop-box recycling sites. Maui Now.

Construction on the state's 65-acre Central Maui Regional Park could start as soon as next summer with more than half of the park completed sometime in late 2015, state officials and consultants said Thursday. Maui News.

Kauai

Are Kaua‘i’s waters polluted? Carl Berg of the Kaua‘i Chapter of the Surfrider will answer that question Thursday during the free monthly lecture series on the Hawaiian Marine Environment presented by the Friends of the Hanapepe Public Library. Garden Island.

Final whale count matches February record. Garden Island.

Molokai

All this week, we’ve been looking at issues surrounding food in Hawaii. As we continue our series “Feeding Ourselves, Hawaii’s Food Future,” we turn to Molokai. Hawaii Public Radio.

Schatz bill would expand national parks, priest admits molesting boys, Steven Tyler bill stalls in House, Hanabusa mulls governership, Senate, Honolulu council kills mayor's gas tax hike, Pro Bowl returns, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ka'u coastline (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Ka‘u coast and areas on other Hawaii islands would be candidates for an expanded National Park System under a bill announced Wednesday by U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, a Democrat from Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz introduced a bill Wednesday that seeks to expand Hawaii's national parks while preserving the state's special places and bringing in more tourism dollars. Associated Press.

In the scheme of things, a bill proposing to direct a study of creating more national parks in Hawaii, may not seem like the most monumental of issues. But in addition to it being an “exciting moment” for Hawaii’s economy and environment, as Hawaii Sen. Brian Schatz described the measure on Tuesday, it was the latest sign that Schatz, a mere year and a half from a special election to keep his seat, is placing an emphasis on environmental issues. Civil Beat.

Legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Brian Schatz on Wednesday could lead to the creation of new national parks on three islands in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Passed over in December for an appointment to the state’s vacant Senate seat by Gov. Neil Abercrombie in favor of now-Sen. Brian Schatz, Democratic Rep. Colleen Hanabusa is deciding whether to challenge one of them in a primary next year. Civil Beat.

The future is looking bleak for a celebrity privacy bill in Hawaii known as the Steven Tyler Act. Associated Press.

Hawaii senators took action this week to advance bills that boost campaign spending transparency and improve voter turnout. But the biggest surprise came when they cut themselves out of plan to create a public funding program for legislative candidates starting in 2016. Civil Beat.

Proponents of solar energy rallied at the state Capitol Wednesday to show their support for a renewable energy tax credit program that lawmakers are proposing to scale back. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii Senate bill to establish a Private-Public Partnership Authority is making leaps through the state House. Associated Press.

Two Senate committees have approved a bill to prohibit employers from requiring employees or job applicants to provide access to personal social media accounts. Associated Press.

Hawaii is the only state without a single entity to oversee police officer training and performance standards, raising questions about the qualifications of Hawaii’s law enforcement officers. Civil Beat.

Cash-based businesses could be facing more pressure from Hawaii tax collectors. Tribune-Herald.

Popular travel sites are appealing a Hawaii court decision to fine them $70 million for unpaid taxes. Associated Press.

An Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee has filed a formal ethics complaint against a fellow trustee over what she says are shady dealings in a $21 million property purchase. Civil Beat.

The National Weather Service says a storm in the North Pacific has generated a large west-northwest swell that is on Thursday afternoon and will continue to through the evening. Hawaii News Now.


Oahu

A priest who taught at Damien Memorial School in the early 1980s admitted in a sworn statement last year that he engaged in sexual conduct with teenagers and adolescents in Hawaii and other U.S. locations where he worked, but that he didn't consider his attraction to youth perverted or abnormal, according to portions of his videotaped deposition played Wednesday at a news conference here. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell's plan to increase the city's share of the per-gallon fuel tax by a nickel was shot down by a 6-3 vote by the Ho­no­lulu City Council on Wednesday despite a direct, last-minute plea by the mayor to keep the measure alive. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council today voted down a proposal by the Mayor to fund road repairs and public transportation by increasing the tax on gasoline. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell's ambitious road repaving plan hit a big bump today.  The plan that would've increased the gas tax by five cents a gallon failed to even make it past the first vote in the City Council. Hawaii News Now.

Smoking at Kapiolani Park, Kuhio Beach Park, Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park, Sandy Beach Park and the beach side of Ala Moana Regional Park will likely soon be a thing of the past, under a bill approved 8-1 by the City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council voted Wednesday to ban smoking at some beaches on Oahu, including Waikiki and Sandy Beach in Hawaii Kai. Pacific Business News.

An overnight camp-out on the Honolulu Hale lawn by (de)Occupy Honolulu supporters failed to dissuade the Honolulu City Council from advancing a bill on Wednesday making it tougher for people to stay on city sidewalks for long periods of time. Star-Advertiser.

A civilian defense contractor accused of giving his Chinese girlfriend military secrets worked on developing military plans to deter potential U.S. enemies when the two began their romance, according to his online professional profile and court documents. Associated Press.

Our aging Honolulu airport is set to get a major multi-million dollar makeover. KHON2.

Federal employees rallied in downtown Honolulu Wednesday to protest across-the-board budget cuts, known as sequestration. KITV4.

The National Football League said Wednesday the Pro Bowl will returning to Hawaii in 2014. Pacific Business News.

A gas spill brought hazardous material crews to Kewalo Basin, and a billionaire has to foot the bill for the cleanup. It is not often a pair of yachts belonging to billionaires are docked in the islands, but at Kewalo Basin, Larry Ellison's Rising Sun is just across the water from Google co-founder Larry Page's mega-ship Senses. KITV4.

Hawaii


The Department of Environmental Management’s wastewater division is facing more than $11 million in repairs to its aging infrastructure and may need to consider a rate hike, Acting Director Dora Beck told Environmental Management Commission members Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

The Public Utilities Commission has accepted a settlement between Hawaiian Electric Company and the State Division of Consumer Advocacy, resulting in HELCO canceling its request for a rate increase on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

A large fish kill reported Tuesday at the Waiopae tide pools in Kapoho may have had a human cause, according to senior health officials. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has nominated Eugene Bal III, the executive director of the Maui High Performance Computing Center, to serve in one of two Maui County seats on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. Maui News.

A self-described "turtle team" captured a turtle at sea - with the guidance of state officials - and removed a large fishing hook from the animal's fin off Poolenalena Beach in Makena on Thursday. Maui News.

Kauai

The State Supreme Court of Hawai‘i will hear arguments today on a two-year-old case involving the destruction of historic sites along the Hapa Trail access in Koloa. Garden Island.

The County of Kaua‘i and the state Department of Agriculture released a report Wednesday on environmental health issues in Waimea. Garden Island.

A federal judge acquitted retired car dealer James Pflueger Wednesday of tax fraud and related conspiracy charges related to a failure to report certain income on his tax returns. Star-Advertiser.

“Happiness.” That is what retired auto dealer Jimmy Pflueger told reporters he felt as he left the U.S.District Court House today, just after U.S. District Judge Leslie Kobayashi found him “not guilty” on four federal tax fraud charges. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii restricts kayaking, Steven Tyler paparazzi bill up for Senate vote, teachers fear for pay hikes, Legislature mulls arcane Maui dance ban, big Puna marijuana bunker busted, 220,000 barrels of Kona beer, Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto arrested, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii kayakers (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

There are more fees and restrictions on kayaking. The Department of Land and Natural Resources said it's to protect the wildlife, but kayak companies say it's hurting their business. KITV4.

The state Senate is expected to vote Tuesday  on a bill that would give celebrities in Hawaii a new legal tool against paparazzi. Star-Advertiser.

The state treasury has gotten itself out of a $1 billion investment pickle. The Department of Budget and Finance has arranged to cash out its remaining position in a huge investment that was hard to exit and attracted withering criticism from the state auditor three years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Citigroup Inc. has agreed to buy back from the state of Hawaii the last $231 million of $1.1 billion in auction-rate securities that it had sold to the state five years ago, before the market began to collapse. Pacific Business News.

The union for public school teachers says contract talks are at a critical point as a deadline for budget legislation looms at the state Capitol. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s old schools need more than a fresh coat of paint to make them new again, state officials say. The facilities need to be overhauled to ensure students are learning in a 21st century environment, which involves flexible floor plan designs and advanced technology. Two school land bills, which face a big test Tuesday, propose public-private partnerships to help the district upgrade existing facilities and build new schools. Civil Beat.

The federal government has started sending out furlough notices that may affect tens of thousands of workers in Hawaii as a result of sequestration. Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, the state's largest industrial employer, held a town hall meeting Monday to discuss the issue, the first of about 10 such meetings scheduled for this week with more than 4,000 affected civilian workers, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Budget fights are continuing in Washington this week. The jury’s still out on what the impact of Friday’s so called sequestration will be for Hawaii. But it’s left many of the state’s non-profits worried about the loss in federal funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

As more people vote absentee, the potential for voter fraud and voter intimidation also grows. There are at least two bills moving through the Legislature that bar candidates from handling ballots or helping voters fill them out. Civil Beat.

Flooding and drought hit Hawaii taro farmers hard last year, reducing estimated production of the crop to its lowest level in at least 20 years. Star-Advertiser.

Lanai’s owner, Larry Ellison, wasn’t the only billionaire with strong Hawaii ties to make Forbes magazine’s annual list of the world’s richest people this year. eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, the only full-time Hawaii resident on the list, tied for No. 123 with four other global tycoons. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for March 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto was arrested in Tokyo on Tuesday, Japan time, on suspicion of violating corporate tax law, the Japanese television network NTV reported. The money was used to buy art for the museum Kawamoto was building in Hawaii, the network reported. Star-Advertiser.

Plans to develop the Ala Wai Boat Harbor will shut down its one and only fueling dock. KHON2.

U.S. District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi says the sweepstakes machines that police seized from six Oahu arcades in September appear to be gambling devices prohibited under state law. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Liquor Commission Administrator Greg Nishioka told his investigators to refrain from arresting people and stop using handcuffs and other gear following an incident of alleged excessive force by two investigators about one year ago. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell and supporters of the (de)Occupy Honolulu movement agree on at least one thing: The trees in Thomas Square should be trimmed and other park improvements made. Star-Advertiser.

Under Mayor Kirk Caldwell's newly proposed budget, Old Stadium Park and dozens of other areas around Oahu would get new life. Hawaii News Now.

Despite a series of construction delays and concern about risking NCAA certification, the University of Hawaii said the $13 million Clarence T. C. Ching Athletic Complex will be completed by its end-of-December deadline. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Despite an annual budget of only $12,600 for travel-related costs for three county professional associations, five County Council members are currently attending the National Association of Counties convention in Washington, D.C., a trip that is likely to cost $3,000 per council member. West Hawaii Today.

A two-year investigation ended with the dismantling of an elaborate underground bunker used to grow marijuana in Glenwood, the confiscation of more than 500 marijuana plants, about 10 pounds of dried marijuana and some hashish and the arrest of two people. Star-Advertiser.

A mainland-based developer has completed the purchase of 52 lots from The Club at Hokulia. West Hawaii Today.

A former Hakalau man is being accused in a lawsuit of sexually abusing boys he had adopted and using them for cheap labor on his farm. Tribune-Herald.

Attorneys have filed a lawsuit on behalf of two men accusing Father George DeCosta, a revered Big Island priest, of sexually abusing two boys while he worked as a chaplain at a Catholic school on Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Brewing Co.’s shipments totaled 220,000 barrels of beer in 2012, an increase of 27.3 percent from the 172,800 barrels that were shipped in 2011, the Hawaii-based company said. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Establishments that serve alcohol on Maui are required to limit dancing to dance floors, which have to be at least 100 square feet, clearly designated and alcohol-free. The Senate is planning to vote today on a bill that would require county liquor commissions to define the term “dancing” in response to many complaints about the regulations. Associated Press.

About 25 state Department of Land and Natural Resources employees and volunteers from the Maui Community Action Committee joined together to plant more than 50 Haleakala silverswords within the Kahikinui Forest Reserve on Saturday morning. Maui News.

Four small-town projects have been awarded an estimated total of $67,000 in the county Planning Department's first round of "small town planning" grant program awards, the county announced. Maui News.

The state House unanimously passed a bill out of its chamber for the purchase of land at Lipoa Point on Maui for permanent preservation. Maui Now.

A talk show will focus on Maui County's recent efforts to convert the island's solid waste into energy in an effort to cut down on the amount of trash that ends up in the Central Maui Landfill in Puunene. Maui News.

Kauai

More than 300 hundred people gathered at Waimea Canyon Middle School Sunday afternoon for a presentation about the effects of Atrazine, a herbicide used in agricultural fields near Waimea — a town described by Hawaiian activist Walter Ritte as the “central battle ground” in a fight against biotech companies and genetically modified organisms. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature looks at decriminalizing marijuana, hospital privatization mulled, UH cuts NEA ties, Waikiki beach smoking ban advances, Ellison expanding Island Air, Singapore buys Maui's Grand Wailea resort, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Rep. Cynthia Thielen in hemp field in France, courtesy photo Hawaii House Republicans

State senators are drafting a bill that would decriminalize the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana but would impose a stiff fine on those caught with the drug. Star-Advertiser.

Senate Moves On Civil Violation For Pakalolo. Civil Beat.

Hawaii House and Senate judiciary committees are moving forward bills to decriminalize marijuana, curb child prostitution and reform state elections. Associated Press.

New House Leadership Accuses Calvin Say Of Last Ditch Power Grab. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers are aiming to increase voter turnout through a bill that would allow residents to register to vote on Election Day. Star-Advertiser.

House Bill 1481 would set up a comprehensive public funding program of candidates for state senator and state representative. Money would be appropriated to fund the program beginning in the 2016 elections. Civil Beat.

Bills paving the way for a turnover of the state’s public hospitals on Maui and Hawaii Island to a private nonprofit were sponsored six months after one particular nonprofit, Banner Health, began talking to Hawaii Health Systems Corp. about the possibility. The Senate version of the bill would apparently allow HHSC to contract with Banner without putting the multimillion-dollar transaction out for competitive bids. West Hawaii Today.

Banner Health, a Phoenix-based nonprofit operating 23 owned and leased hospitals in seven states, has set its sights on Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii's faculty union has voted to end its affiliation with the National Education Association, despite serious concerns from some members. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii teachers say they were shocked and angered to hear Gov. Neil Abercrombie tell a group of the nation's governors that the state may again impose a labor contract on teachers if a 2013-15 deal isn't reached. Star-Advertiser.

Local Media Shy Away From Critical Reporting On Military. Civil Beat.

Part 3 of 5: Even before Hawaii Circuit Court Judge John Lim unequivocally championed the public interest in police disciplinary actions and ruled against the State of Hawaii Organization of Police Officers, SHOPO had a Plan B — get the Legislature to do what the courts would not. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s most visited attractions, including the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, Haleakala National Park on Maui and other national wonders, could feel the pinch if sequestration goes through. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for February 27. Associated Press.

Oahu
A bill barring smoking at major beaches in Waikiki, Ala Moana and East Hono­lulu and at Kapiolani Park is now poised for a final vote of the City Council after being approved by the Council's Public Safety and Economic Development Committee on Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A bill making it harder for people to keep tents and other items on Oahu sidewalks was given preliminary approval Tuesday by the City Council's Public Safety and Economic Development Committee. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council today advanced a bill that would allow the immediate removal of personal property or other items from city sidewalks. Hawaii Public Radio.

Seven months after they started spinning, the Kahuku wind mills stopped because of a fire. The fact that they're sitting idle is having an ripple effect that reaches your electric bill. KHON2.

Some state lawmakers and many viewers are questioning the University of Hawaii and its decision to spend $260,000 on another study to look into the Stevie Wonder blunder concert last year. Hawaii News Now.

The Korean church behind an ambitious plan to launch a farm and kim chee factory in Wai­anae that will be largely staffed by homeless people has lots of obstacles yet to overcome but is kicking off a fundraising effort to help push things along. Star-Advertiser.

For half a dozen former Kipapa Elementary School students, room P-10 was a little class of horrors. Hawaii New Now has learned that the families of six disabled students have now come forward with allegations of abuse by staffers at this Mililani School. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Should the Banyan Drive resort area be transferred to Hawaii County? The state Senate’s Ways and Means Committee will consider that question today when it takes up a bill that would make the county the landlord for the nine hotel properties. Tribune-Herald.

Bids for the proposed Laaloa Avenue extension came in significantly lower than expected, Public Works Director Warren Lee said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Sen. Josh Green says the Department of Transportation will start working on the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project in June, unless Native Hawaiians who previously objected to the expansion path file a lawsuit. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County citizens voted for a new county prosecutor for the first time in 20 years last November. The new prosecutor has been on the job for nearly three months now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park could take a sizable hit to its operations if Congress allows across-the-board, 5 percent budget cuts to go into effect at multiple government agencies on Friday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A chicken got into a Maui Electric Co. transformer in the rental car area at Kahului Airport on Tuesday afternoon, causing a power outage at the airport that left some passengers having to disembark their planes the old way -- by mobile stairway. Maui News.

Farmers, ranchers and private landowners are worried that they could face more government regulations, see their businesses hurt and even be sued if their properties are included in federal proposed critical habitats for threatened and endangered species in Maui County. Maui News.

A bankruptcy judge in New York approved a plan last week to sell the Grand Wailea and three other U.S. luxury resorts to a Singaporean government investment fund, according to court documents. Maui News.

The state Department of Health licensed Hale Makua last week to be an adult residential care home. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission approved the consolidation of two large lots where the Hanalei Plantation Resort is being proposed to be developed. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the first of three Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative 2013 Board of Directors candidate forums today from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kaua‘i Community College, Office of Continuing Education and Training Building, Room 106. Garden Island.

A group of thieves broke into the vacant Coco Palms Resort in Wailua Beach Saturday night, making off with four solid koa wood doors from the Queen’s Auditorium Hall. Garden Island.

Lanai

Billionaire Larry Ellison now owns an airline to go along with his island. Local carrier Island Air confirmed Tuesday that Ellison, who bought 97 percent of Lanai in June, has completed a deal to buy the company, ending weeks of speculation that the country's third-richest man was going to further entrench himself in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Larry Ellison, the billionaire owner of the Hawaiian island of Lanai, bought the Hawaii interisland airline Island Air on Tuesday for an undisclosed price. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii gets $17M for road repair, bill would keep candidates' hands off ballots, Public Safety mulls how murderer escaped, AP students increase, deaf fight for services, Maui mayor seeks water rate hikes, Kauai county prosecutor breaks hip, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii roadway (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

he state of Hawaii will be receiving $17 million in disaster relief funds to repair roads and highways. Associated Press.

Senator Mazie K. Hirono, Senator Brian Schatz, and Representative Tulsi Gabbard announced today that Hawaii will receive $17 million for disaster relief. Hawaii Reporter.

Senate Bill 827 would prohibit candidates from physically handling or possessing absentee ballots and voter registration forms. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie may be asked to sign legislation that would give the state Senate reasons to impeach him. Civil Beat.

Conflicting testimony by the current and former directors of the State Ethics Commission before a Senate committee earlier this month exposed different perspectives on the interpretation of a key conflict of interest provision and of the ethics laws more generally. Civil Beat.

Deaf people and advocates are fighting to preserve state-funded interpreter referral and independent living services, saying they are vital to helping members of the deaf community operate in the hearing world. Star-Advertiser.

The percentage of Hawaii students taking Advanced Placement courses increased faster than the national average, and students scored higher than last year, while still trailing their national counterparts. West Hawaii Today.

More than 1 million federal employees, including thousands of workers in Hawaii, will likely be forced to take unpaid furloughs starting in April because of the $85 billion in spending cuts that will go into effect March 1 if Congress doesn’t act. Pacific Business News.

19,000 Hawaii Defense Workers At Risk Of Being Furloughed. Civil Beat.

Seven years after the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands became the world’s first oceanic no-fishing marine reserve, Hawaii’s example is being followed by countries ranging from Great Britain to Chile, giving hope that the huge areas they are protecting will become invaluable food banks as the world’s oceans are inexorably fished out and the global catch continues its 30-year-old decline. Honolulu Weekly.

Are Hawaii Schools Doing Enough to Prevent Youth Sports Concussions? Civil Beat.

It took a full presidential term, a re-election, and the work of a determined journalist before President Barack Obama agreed to a one-on-one interview with a television news crew from Hawaii. KITV4.

Oahu

Union fights Council on nonresort lodging: A bill allowing limited service hotels in lower density, mixed-use neighborhoods of West and Central Oahu was sent back to the City Council Planning and Zoning Committee for retinkering on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal to build a canoe hale and park could end the controversy over what to do with eight city-owned parcels in Haleiwa. Star-Advertiser.

Public safety officials are trying to piece together how murder suspect Teddy Munet escaped from corrections officers behind the Circuit Court building in Kakaako on Wednesday morning. More than 11 hours later, Munet, 29, was arrested without incident by Honolulu police on Waimanu Street — about eight blocks away — after a tip was called into 911. Star-Advertiser.

This is the second time in less than four months that a prisoner has escaped from circuit court. Officials say, yes, it's definitely a concern, but if inmates are desperate, they'll try anything. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council heard testimony on Bill 2, 6, and 7, which all look to give power to the police to regulate and remove people or property that are "nuisances to the public." KHON2.

On a quiet hillside above Haleiwa town, Seneca Klassen is planting cacao seedlings on the last of his 14 acres, next to trees he planted a few years ago that are now laden with the nubby pods that yield chocolate. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

More homeowners could soon be moved away from Puna Geothermal Venture with the help of Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

Keaukaha residents will have to endure another two months of heavy traffic as the sewer project that has rerouted drivers from Kalanianaole Avenue faces delays. Tribune-Herald.

Cultural Learning Center to Replace Former Keauhou Beach Hotel. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa on Wednesday called for water rate hikes of 5 percent across the board, noting repairs and upgrades that are long overdue for the county's aging water system.  Maui News.

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa delivered his State of the County Address before an auditorium of guests at the HP Baldwin High School Auditorium in Wailuku on Wednesday night. Maui Now.

A 6-3 vote by the state Land Use Commission found the landowners of Pi'ilani Promenade, Maui Outlets and a housing project in violation of the original order granted in 1995 that converted the land from agricultural to urban use. Maui Weekly.

Kahana Sunset apartment owners worry about the next big winter storm. Perched near the water's edge at Keonenui Bay in Napili, the 4.5-acre, six-building apartment complex has had some close calls with destructive surf since the 79-unit resort was built in 1971. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar has suffered a broken hip. Kollar reported Wednesday that he is presently out of the office to take care of a broken hip, but that he remains in close contact with his staff on a daily basis, according to county spokeswoman Beth Tokioka. Garden Island.

Nancy Pflueger said she doesn’t know who signed the joint federal income tax returns filed for the years 2003 through 2006 for her and her husband, but that the signatures on the documents are not hers. Star-Advertiser.

Lanai

Lanai majority owner Larry Ellison, who met face-to-face for the first time with Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa on Tuesday aboard the billionaire’s yacht off the coast of the Pineapple Isle, revealed new development plans for Lanai, which he reportedly bought for an estimated $500 million last June. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

When the Kalaupapa post office wasn’t shut down last year, the small, isolated community considered it a big victory. The patients and staff at the former Hansen’s Disease settlement recently celebrated again as they learned their post office – a vital communication lifeline for the area – will extend its operating time by two hours a day, a rare deal in this unstable time for the United States Postal Service. Molokai Dispatch.