Maui bag ban working, House leadership firming up, 3 on shortlist for state Senate, Hawaii students average in college readiness, foster families needed, Kalaupapa memorial progressing, more Hawaii news

Photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's green sea turtles are still a threatened species and have not yet recovered their numbers, but they're getting there. Star-Advertiser.

Instead of paper or plastic, employees at the Kaahumanu Foodland on Maui are asking, “Did you remember your reuseable bag today?” KITV4.

Calvin Say has been speaker of the State House since 1999, making him the longest-serving house speaker since statehood. Hawaii News Now.

Democratic Speaker of the House Calvin Say has enough votes to retain his leadership after a small group of Republicans backed him in an attempt to break a stalemate between majority Democrats. Associated Press.

On Friday, State House Republicans announced that they will be voting to keep Democrat Calvin Say as Speaker of the House. Hawaii Independent.

With less than a week and a half before the first day of session…. State House Democrats have yet to name a Speaker or committee leadership Republicans, on the other hand, are already working on packaging their bills.Hawaii Public Radio.

A businessman, a computer expert and a veteran campaign organizer emerged from a kind of political job fair Sunday as finalists for Hawaii Island's open state Senate seat. Tribune-Herald.

As noted earlier, the new administration promised as part of its campaign rhetoric to restore public employee pay and eliminate “furlough Fridays” and more recently promised to bring back all those who are incarcerated on the mainland.  This all against a backdrop of another looming budget shortfall. Hawaii Reporter.

The recent locally chilly weather will be coming to an end soon as strong southwest Kona winds bring warmer air from the deep tropics; Hawaii News Now.

A memorial to the 8,000 people who were exiled to Kalaupapa is ready to move forward now that an environmental assessment has been prepared. Maui News.

According to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the lava from Kilauea Volcano started entering the ocean at a new point on Thursday.KHON2.

There's a new Adjutant General of the Hawaii National Guard. KHON2.

Kealii Lopez, newly appointed director of the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, had served since 2004 as president and chief executive officer of 'Olelo Community Media, the nonprofit that runs six public-access channels on Oceanic Cable. Star-Advertiser.

A recent report showed more than one in three Hawaii public school graduates need remedial math or English when they enter the University of Hawaii System. As it turns out, that statistic puts Hawaii right up there with the national average. Civil Beat.

The number of foster family providers in Hawai‘i is down some 20 percent, officials said, yet another consequence of a struggling economy. Garden Island.

County Prosecuting Attorney Jay Kimura told the Tribune-Herald on Friday that he plans to resign effective April 1. Tribune-Herald.

The city could end up paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in a lawsuit involving a Kuwaiti-born Honolulu man whose arrest under mental health statutes was prompted, his attorney says, by being unjustly suspected of terrorist proclivities. Star-Advertiser.

It’s a big question for some, a non issue for others: Do you drink the water? Hawaii Independent.

Council to work on its manners. Garden Island.

Maui Tomorrow Foundation and the Maalaea Community Association have sued in 2nd Circuit Court to declare the final environmental impact statement for the Ohana Kai Village affordable housing project inadequate and out of date. Maui News.

A company called Kuokoa Inc. has been formed for the purpose of buying all the shares of Hawaiian Electric Industries and converting the publicly traded company into a private concern. Pacific Business News.

Winter in Hawaii means an abundance of locally grown citrus fruit available at farmers markets and from grocers that buy from Hawaii Island farmers. West Hawaii Today.

Seven weeks later, former University of Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan said he still has "no vivid memory" of a two-car crash on the Big Island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii weather turning, Mauna Kea telescope delayed, state can't get its House in order, Dog the Bounty Hunter nabs one, Kona coffee farmers confused, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The University of Hawaii said Wednesday it expects to delay by about two years the start of a new asteroid-hunting telescope it plans to build at Mauna Kea's summit. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii is shelving plans to build an Air Force-funded, asteroid-hunting telescope on Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

The consortium that wants to build the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea has sponsored robotics teams at local schools, downsized its proposed dome to be less conspicuous, agreed to ship all waste water back down the mountain, and pledged to train and hire local employees and contribute a million dollars a year to a local educational fund, among other concessions. Big Island Weekly.

The State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Energy Office has filed state and federal notices of intent to prepare a programmatic environmental impact statement for the Hawai‘i Interisland Renewable Energy Program. The PEIS will examine the program-level impacts of the development of up to 400 megawatts of wind energy on Maui County, the transmission of the energy to Oahu via an undersea cable, and the integration of that energy into Oahu’s electrical grid. Hawaii Reporter.

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch this morning for Kauai and a flood watch will be posted for other islands later today. Star-Advertiser.

The calm and quiet weather we've been seeing is expected to change dramatically. KHON2.

With state House Speaker Calvin Say still one vote short of retaining power, dissidents are asking that he work with them to find a leadership compromise that will unify the House. Star-Advertiser.

After five weeks of what they describe as an "impasse" over who should lead the state House of Representatives, 18 Democrats who want a leadership change are asking Calvin Say to give up his battle to stay speaker. Civil Beat.

Following reports of nepotism at Myron B. Thompson Academy Public Charter School, Rep. Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai) announced that the $2.3 million in Federal Stimulus Funds recently released by the Lingle Administration for Charter School accreditation could help prevent these problems in the future. Hawaii Independent.

A national study finds 20% of Americans spend more than they make - and in Hawaii, 24%. Hawaii News Now.

The Library and Information Science Graduate Program at the University of Hawaii at Manoa has been cited as one of the nation's best.Associated Press.

Tens of thousands of University of Hawaii students statewide are experiencing delays registering for next semester’s classes because of an overloaded computer system, UH officials said. KITV4.

A record 784 lost, injured and underweight wedge-tailed shearwater fledglings have been turned in to bird caretakers on Oahu in the last 15 days, prompting concern for the native seabird. Star-Advertiser.

The coqui frog has garnered quite a bit of attention in Hawaii during the last decade. Honolulu Weekly.

Three adult corrections officers who worked at the Halawa Correctional Facility have been fired after a surveillance video showed them assaulting an inmate inside the prison. KHON2.

Dog the Bounty Hunter and his crew chased down a suspect on Hawaii’s most wanted list and may consider going after the FBI’s backpack bandit. KITV4.

The most hotly debated issue in Chancellor Michael Rota's tenure at Honolulu Community College was finally settled yesterday when he helped unveil a statue of a pistol with a knotted barrel designed to honor former Beatle John Lennon, who was assassinated 30 years ago yesterday by a former Hawaii resident. Star-Advertiser.

Late Honolulu mayor Frank Fasi will be inducted into the Honolulu Marathon Hall of Fame Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The 13th Air Force plans to have a change of command ceremony this week as Lt. Gen. Ted Kresge takes over from Lt. Gen. Hawk Carlisle. Associated Press.

Three more of Mayor Peter Carlisle's Cabinet appointees -- holdovers from the previous administration -- received initial approval from the City Council yesterday as the chamber completed its business for 2010. Star-Advertiser.

The status of the Volcano House remains in limbo, with the National Park Service yet to decide who will operate the landmark hotel. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County has settled a lawsuit filed against it by a paving company that alleged the county violated its own procurement code when it bought materials from a rival company. West Hawaii Today.

Some coffee producers are expressing confusion in the wake of a new emergency rule creating two quarantine zones to halt the spread of the coffee berry borer on and off the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui Memorial Medical Center's Kahului Tower was renamed The Representative Bob Nakasone Kahului Tower on Tuesday - an honor the longtime, self-effacing lawmaker probably would have shied away from. Maui News.

The new owners of Na Koa Ikaika Maui baseball team are working with the county to make good on promised facility improvements that were not completed by the previous owners. Maui News.

After a long wait, community members on Wednesday were supposed to be able to watch the live online streaming of the Kaua‘i County Council meeting. Garden Island.

For months, Moloa‘a resident Hope Kallai has been watching a large yellow buoy roll over the reef in front of Lepe‘uli Beach, also known as Larsen’s Beach, on the North Shore. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism up, surf down, Kilauea grumbles, Legislature in turmoil, website targets spending, counties reorganize, more news from the islands

Tourism rises in isles Star-Advertiser.

La Niña, “the little girl,” has brought her little waves to Hawaii and is wreaking havoc with the world’s best surfers. For the first time in the 28-year history of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing,  presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, Sunset Beach has not delivered a single day of iconic giant surf for the O’Neill World Cup of Surfing. Hawaii Independent.

Extended unemployment benefits for nearly 2 million Americans, including more than 4,000 in Hawaii, begin to run out today, cutting off a steady stream of income and guaranteeing a dismal holiday season for people already struggling with bills they cannot pay. Associated Press.

Nearly a month after the November general election, seven new state representatives lack Capitol offices as the result of an unsettled House leadership struggle, delaying preparations for the first lawmaking session under Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie's leadership. Associated Press.

Slom thinks Say will hold on to speakership. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii group that favors limited and accountable government has unveiled a new website that details state spending for the last two years. Associated Press.

The site exposes details for more than $12 billion in state spending and transfers since 2008. Grassroot Institute.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie chose the Maui County finance director yesterday to be his budget chief and tapped a veteran Hawaii island lawmaker as the state's top labor official. Star-Advertiser.

Governor-elect Neil Abercrombie added two more nominees to his cabinet Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Gov.-Elect Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday announced his choices to head the Departments of Budget and Finance and Labor and Industrial Relations. KITV4.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii has joined almost five dozen other senators to defeat a proposal that would have imposed a three-year ban on congressionally directed spending — also known as earmarks. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono says she's been elected to the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee in Congress. Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle on Tuesday announced his choices for eight new administrators on his staff, including two department directors. KITV4.

Maui County Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa named six new members to his Cabinet on Monday, including two key people to help him achieve his campaign goals, Danny Agsalog as director of the Department of Finance and Dave Taylor as director of the Department of Water Supply. Maui News.

Kaua‘i County Council members on Tuesday continued their behind-closed-doors discussion of who they should hire to serve as county clerk. Garden Island.

Incoming Planning Director Michael Dahilig announced Tuesday that Dee Crowell will become deputy planning director effective Dec. 13. Garden Island.

Earlier today there was a confidential meeting within the Department of Transportation regarding employee and management disagreements.  The previous issues escalated to where these two women filed a lawsuit against the airport personnel manager. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii ranks fifth in the nation in methamphetamine use among people age 12 and older, according to a study by the Hawaii Meth Project. KITV4.

Family and Friends are invited to the State Capitol at 11 a.m. today to remember those who have lost loved ones to AIDS. KHON2.

Scientists at Kilauea Volcano will conduct aerial surveillance Wednesday of a new breakout, to determine where the lava flows may be headed next. KHON2.

Tube rupturing, sending flow toward residences near Kalapana Gardens. Tribune-Herald.

There will be a celebration of Hawaii Radio and Entertainment pioneer Krash Kealoha in his hometown of Waimanalo. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will begin construction on a new ferry terminal building and other improvements at the Ma'alaea Small Boat Harbor on Maui Friday. KHON2.

Stimulating the local economy by putting people to work -- to "help us paddle our canoe out of the economic doldrums" -- is one of the stated goals of a $56 million bond issue the Hawaii County Council is scheduled to vote on today.West Hawaii Today.

The owner of Ooma Beachside Village wants another chance before the Land Use Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Wailuku town would have raised speed tables on Vineyard Street and a pedestrian greenway along Waiale Road. And, there would be more trees along sidewalks in Kahului and Wailuku. Maui News.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii tourists returning, state Senate, county councils reorganize, Star-Advertiser ad rates skyrocket, military mulls depleted uranium problem, more Hawaii news

(c) 2010 allhawaiinews

The latest tourism numbers give state officials good reason to be optimistic. KHON2.

Hawaii's tourism industry showed further signs of recovering from a two-year slump as visitors to the state spent 22.2 percent more than a year ago in September, pushing total expenditures in the month to $880.2 million.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotel occupancy fell below 70% last week, Hospitality Advisors LLC reported Friday, led by a noticeable drop on Maui.Hawaii News Now.

Economist Leroy Laney said Thursday that he is standing by his projection that Hawaii's economy will experience sustained recovery next year. Associated Press

For vacationers there's more to enjoy than just the sand and seashore at Waikiki Beach. So the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau will encourage tourists in 2011 to get out and explore Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

State Senate Democrats reorganized and chose a new leader late Thursday to replace Senate President Colleen Hanabusa who was elected to Congress. KITV4.

State Sen. Shan Tsutsui of Maui will be the new Senate president and Sen. Donna Mercado Kim is the Senate vice president after Senate Democrats agreed on a reorganization plan last night. Star-Advertiser.

Neil Abercrombie outlined his plans for transition from the Lingle administration, and weighed in on next steps for the Board of Education. KHON2.

Governor-elect Neil Abercrombie is looking for a cabinet and top officials to join his administration. KITV4.

Hawaii's next governor, Democrat Neil Abercrombie, is accepting applications to work in his administration. Associated Press.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie said yesterday he would not wait for an independent financial analysis to determine whether to sign the environmental impact statement on Honolulu's $5.5 billion rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Akaka bill to bring self governance to native Hawaiians appears dead in its tracks with Republicans taking over control of the U.S. House in January. KITV4.

Aside from spending more time with his family, Charles Djou says he has not given much thought to his immediate future, particularly to what lies ahead politically. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Billy Kenoi hopes to capitalize on the county's solid bond rating by borrowing $56 million more for capital improvement projects. West Hawaii Today.

Those opposed to the appointed Board of Education amendment had momentum on their side in the final days of the election, but it was too little, too late. Civil Beat.

A lot has been said over the past 30 years about the need for a centralized West Hawaii judiciary, but the courts are still scattered among three locations in the North and South Kona districts. West Hawaii Today.

Since becoming Hawaii’s only daily statewide newspaper, the Honolulu Star Advertiser has raised advertising rates 762 percent for weekday classified ads and 1,373 percent for Sunday classifieds, according to documents posted on a state website. Hawaii Reporter.

The former Kulani Correctional Facility has been transformed into a learning center for at-risk youth. Hawaii News Now.

When Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa is sworn into office Jan. 3, dozens of new faces - and maybe a handful of old ones - will likely be in the former mayor's new Cabinet. Maui News.

A new County Council majority emerging from Tuesday's election is likely to name Hamakua Councilman Dominic Yagong its chairman. West Hawaii Today.

Voters' ouster of two County Council members will produce a new West Hawaii-based leadership and reduce Hilo's three lawmakers to minority status, Hilo Councilman Donald Ikeda is predicting. Tribune-Herald.

More than half the seats on the Maui County Council will change hands in 2011, opening the door for councilors to reorganize and take a different approach on some of the county's biggest issues. Maui News.

An immediate suspension of green coffee imports into Hawaii to prevent further damage by the coffee berry borer is being sought by the Kona Coffee Farmers Association. West Hawaii Today.

Nobody should have been in Kalalau Valley except those people working on the rock-mitigation work and state resources-enforcement officers, but there is no guarantee some people did not elude enforcement officers and slip further up the valley. Garden Island.

Technicians from the Honolulu Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts will be conducting conservation treatment to the bronze sculpture of King David Kalākaua located at King Kalākaua Park on Tuesday, November 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Hawaii Independent.

County Council takes action on confusing sign ordinance. Lahaina News.

Plans to construct a Stryker Brigade training area at Schofield Barracks ran afoul of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) because the Army has no license to handle the toxic depleted uranium there. Honolulu Weekly.

Commercial aquarium fish collecting is an industry that many West Hawai'i residents love to hate. Big Island Weekly.

Military ramping up on Molokai, Big Island, Abercrombie, Hannemann debate in Hilo, Supreme Court allows public intervention in land use, birther at it again, Discovery Channel shooter from Maui, more news from the islands

A Hawaiian plant species thought to be extinct has been found on the Big Island. (Photo courtesy of The Nature Conservancy). Associated Press.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has refused to reconsider its decision that found that the state Constitution permits private parties to seek a review by the state Land Use Commission of proposals on agricultural lands. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee has given its unanimous approval to the nomination of Mark Recktenwald to become the next Hawaii Supreme Court chief justice. Associated Press.

Wednesday morning the state senate judiciary committee gave full approval to the nomination of Mark Recktenwald to become the next Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice. KHON2.

Do you have 25 friends and 75 dollars? If so, you too could one day be a candidate for statewide or federal offices like governor, lieutenant governor, U.S. senator and U.S. representative. Civil Beat.

Gubernatorial candidates Mufi Hannemann and Neil Abercrombie got down to business Tuesday night, debating questions provided by local industry groups as the leading Democrats race virtually neck and neck toward the Sept. 18 primary. West Hawaii Today.

The top two rivals for the Democratic Party's gubernatorial nomination clashed for the second time in as many days during a debate Tuesday night in Hilo. Tribune-Herald

James "Duke" Aiona owes the most personal debt of the three leading candidates for governor and Mufi Hannemann has the least debt, according to financial interest disclosures filed with the State Ethics Commission. KITV.

Hawaii GOP Chief Jonah Ka'auwai said Wednesday he is satisfied his letter to urge pastors and conservative Christians to shun Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann and to ban him from campaigning in their churches was successful. KITV.

In the midst of an election year, the candidate chorus of providing jobs and rebuilding the economy has relegated discussions of environmental protection to the back burner. Honolulu Weekly.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann is proposing to create a specialized court that would provide treatment and other services to veterans convicted of criminal activity. Associated Press.

Democratic candidates for the state Senate whose names were left off some absentee ballots in District 25 said they were concerned the error might hurt their chances for winning. Star-Advertiser.

A man identified as holding three people hostage at the Discovery Channel headquarters in Maryland Wednesday was a former Lahaina resident. Maui News.

 The United States military is planning yet another expansion entailing increased use of Pohakuloa Training Area. Big Island Weekly.

As the U.S. Marine Corps prepares to draft an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the use of new aircraft during training exercises, officials say Molokai could see a slight increase in military activity. Molokai Dispatch.


The last three F-15 jets in the state are gone...making way for Hawaii's newest military aircraft to take to the skies. KHON2.

Depleted uranium found at Pohakuloa Training Area on Saddle Road poses "no likely adverse impacts" to people working at, visiting or living near the training area, Army officials said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today

An Army doctor charged with disobeying a deployment order because he doubts President Barack Obama's credentials as commander in chief is asking a military judge for access to the president's school and college records. Associated Press

Acting Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Wednesday the city next month will begin a $37 million project to dig a tunnel for a new permanent sewer main pipe in the Waikiki area. KITV.

It's a sight many have never quite gotten used to. KHON2.

Kauai plans to limit lighting at public facilities as much as possible to protect endangered seabirds. Associated Press.

City Council members took the first steps to providing immediate help for a "gap group" of 247 residents who saw sizable increases in property tax bills due to a reclassification of their property from residential to commercial/industrial. Star-Advertiser.

Now that the ownership of Makena resort has been formally transferred, the new owners are refining the details of development proposals that will include work force housing within the resort, which would be a first for Maui. Maui News.

About 60 people attended a forum on controversial red mangrove eradication Tuesday night at Pahoa Community Center. Tribune-Herald.

The first new fire station built on Kaua‘i in 66 years received its blessing and dedication four months ahead of schedule, Wednesday. Garden Island.

A survey conducted to help the University of Hawaii at Hilo develop a new strategic plan identifies marine science, Hawaiian studies and pharmacy as the school's academic strengths. Associated Press.

It's a game measured by dollars and cents and USC football fans are running up a tally. Hawaii News Now.

Case buys into Maui Land & Pineapple, Senate to consider chief justice pick, Oahu fireworks ban advances, fish ban proposed, more news from all the islands

Legislation banning tropical fish collecting in Hawaii waters will be introduced in January by state Sen. Josh Green, who said he is planning to write and submit "a simple bill" on the controversial issue. West Hawaii Today.

A mysterious disease is killing striped and porcupine puffer fish. Molokai Dispatch.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted yesterday against recommending appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as Hawaii's next chief justice, leaving her with an uphill fight to win confirmation when the Senate considers her nomination today. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Leonard needs 12 out of 23 votes to become Hawaii's next chief justice. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu district judge's appointment to the Circuit Court bench was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday, even though the nominee was rated "unqualified" by the Hawaii State Bar Association. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee has approved judicial nominations submitted by Gov. Linda Lingle and state Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald Moon. Associated Press.

The Hawaii County prosecutor's office agreed yesterday to dismiss a trespassing charge against a census worker who had been arrested after a Puna resident refused to participate in the survey. Star-Advertiser.

There are many reasons why people from all over the world are drawn to the offshore areas of the privately owned island of Ni‘ihau. Garden Island.

A final vote on an islandwide consumer fireworks ban will be taken by the City Council on Aug. 18, even with the fate of the bill uncertain. Star-Advertiser.

The two Democratic rivals for governor are continuing to spar over political ads they are airing as the likely Republican nominee touts assistance he's getting from GOP governors on the mainland. Associated Press.

The two Democratic rivals for governor yesterday sparred over their political ads as the likely Republican nominee touted the assistance he's getting from GOP governors on the mainland. Associated Press.

The leading Democratic candidates for governor faced off in a debate on Kaua'i Thursday night. KITV.


AOL co-founder Steve Case has significantly expanded his stake in Maui Land & Pineapple Co., buying additional stock that increases his ownership to 62.8 percent of the company. Maui News.
(photo by Robert Scoble)

Members of Hawaii's voyaging community are sailing around the state in honor of the late master navigator Mau Piailug. Associated Press.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa recently unveiled a brand new high-tech telescope for its “Tour of the Stars” experience. Lahaina News.

Expect some possible delays on the roads Friday. Huge wind turbines will be heading to their final destination in Kahuku for a new windfarm. Hawaii News Now.

The group tasked with coordinating next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Hawaii has a new leader. Associated Press.

A Hansen's disease patient pleaded guilty Thursday afternoon to trying to smuggle crystal methamphetamine to the leprosy settlement at Kalaupapa, Molokai. KITV.

A former Honolulu Police Department recruit is suing the city, a high-ranking HPD commander and several other HPD officials. KHON2.

When students check into their dorms at the University of Hawaii at Manoa this fall they'll notice an upgrade. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii in Hilo is getting a big amount of money. The estate of the late Howard and Yoneko Droste, left the school $810,000. Hawaii News Now.

Maile David's name is on the Sept. 18 ballot for County Council District 6. But whether she gets to remain a candidate is up to a court. West Hawaii Today.

When one of the wettest spots in the world receives only around three-fourths the rainfall it normally receives, Kaua‘i like the rest of the state finds itself in drought conditions. Garden Island.

Brian Kajikawa, the controversial head of Hawaii County's Building Division, has been sent to another department, delighting at least one of his critics. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii even less affordable, thanks to new tax hikes that go into effect today, more state news

New laws and more taxes, on Thursday morning, we'll all be waking up to a long list of tax hikes on water, cigarettes, and gas, and higher property bills. Hawaii News Now.

New laws effective today ban shark fin foods,charge fees for mixed martial arts events, increase cigarette taxes, raise payment for traffic abstracts and strip businesses and nonprofits of tax-exempt status if they do not file general excise tax returns. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents may hate July 1, the start of the new fiscal year, as much as they despise April 15. KHON2.

New cigarette taxes hitting Hawaii smokers Thursday make each pack cost 40 cents more, reaching an average of nearly $8. AP.

The state and city are raising fees for a number of services.KITV

County pools will be closed once a week starting Thursday, due to budget and staffing cuts that left the Aquatic Division without enough pool guards.. Maui News.

Fifth of Big Isle on food stamps. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Where's the Beef? No Reason to Oppose Civil Unions. Civil Beat.

Dear Gov. Lingle, Sometime between now and July 6, you will make your final decision on HB444, the civil-unions bill. Honolulu Weekly.

State tourism officials said Hawaii is seeing an increase in demand for summer travel, both in the domestic and international market. KITV

In January you'll have a new airline to choose from if you're traveling between Seoul and Honolulu. KHON2.

Hawaiian Airlines last week launched its first-ever, nonstop daily flights between Oakland and Maui. Lahaina News.

According to a high Army official, the Army never intended to remove depleted uranium ammunition remnants from Pohakuloa Training Area and Shofield Barracks, and it has no plans to do so for as long as the firing ranges at those facilities are still in use. Big Island Weekly.

Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann's campaign for governor has questioned former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie's support for removing a federal ban on offshore oil drilling, pointing to the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as an example of the danger.Star-Advertiser.

A new poll released Wednesday suggests Hawaii's Democratic Party is likely to take back the governor's office. Hawaii News Now.

A new poll shows both former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann ahead of Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona in hypothetical matchups for governor in November. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares will take until Tuesday to sign into law a bill that will make it illegal to use a cellular phone or other mobile electronic devices while driving. Maui News.

W.S. Merwin acknowledges that his relatively reclusive life on a former pineapple plantation built on the slopes of Haleakala on Maui will be disturbed by the Library of Congress’ announcement this morning naming him the country’s poet laureate. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiians want bridge work stopped, claim ‘obfuscation.' Garden Island.

Staking for construction of both a new Wailua Beach parking lot and a retaining wall that is part of the old cane-haul-bridge widening project could have alarmed some residents who may have thought it was for construction of the county’s coastal path, said a state Department of Transportation spokeswoman. Garden Island.

Business secrecy bill advances, Legislature sends fuel tax bill to governor, Save Our Schools ends protest, Hansen's disease settlement only land route blocked by mudslide, the band plays on and more Hawaii news

Listeners swayed and tapped toes to the rhythms of the Royal Hawaiian Band yesterday, enjoying a 174-year-old tradition of free music that some lawmakers say might be too costly to continue.

A proposal to keep thousands of complaints filed against Hawaii businesses secret has been resurrected by the legislature this year without one public hearing.

The state House and Senate yesterday gave final approval to an increase in the barrel tax and a measure to halt a state plan to close eligibility offices on the Neighbor Islands that help the poor.

A bill to drastically raise the state tax on a barrel of oil dribbled out of the Legislature yesterday, but faces an uncertain future.

Lawmakers have made a move to block streamlining and layoffs at the Department of Human Services

Pau. That's word from the group protesting school furloughs. Members of Save Our Schools Hawaii, or S.O.S., have been camping out at the governor's office since last Wednesday.

The past week of heavy rain created a mudslide and serious damage to a footbridge on the "pali trail," which forced the National Park Service on Tuesday afternoon to close the only land route to the Kalaupapa Hansen's disease settlement, which remains accessible by plane or boat.

Former Honolulu City Councilman John Henry Felix has agreed to pay a $50,000 administrative fine to settle claims that he violated campaign financing laws, the highest amount ever paid to the state Campaign Spending Commission by a political candidate.

Verizon Wireless recently submitted an application to the Hawaii County Planning Department for approval to build a 54-foot cell tower behind Parker Ranch Shopping Center in Waimea.

Sticking to his promise in 2008, shortly before leaving office because of term limits, former Maui County Council Chairman Riki Hokama is making his return to politics.

A brush fire Wednesday morning scorched some five acres of former sugarcane lands across from the old Kekaha sugar mill.

End of session crunch pushes tax bills, Furlough Friday protests get louder, alternative energy comes and goes in the islands, more Hawaii news

State House negotiators last night offered to significantly scale back a proposal to lift general-excise tax exemptions on several business activities and impose a new GET hike, a move that would generate $25.3 million — instead of about $100 million — to help contain the state's budget deficit.

Many tax breaks or exemptions for local businesses would be preserved under a tentative compromise bill set to move today at the Legislature.

The fifth day of a protest to end Furlough Fridays closed yesterday with bubbles, musicians, art and slam poetry at the state Capitol's rotunda as parents and students urged the governor to find a solution.

Confirmation hearings are tomorrow for the three men nominated by Gov. Linda Lingle to serve on the board that oversees the 10-campus UH system.

Hawaiian Airlines did the best job for fliers last year, closely followed by low-cost carrier AirTran, according to an annual study released today that rates the nation's 18 busiest airlines for the quality of their service.

The spotlight was on Hilo, Hawaii for nearly a week as work crews, spectators and halau after halau poured into town. At the Edith Kanaka'ole stadium, the stage was prepped early for practice performances.

Make that two years in a row for the men of Ke Kai O Kahiki.

A and B Properties, Inc., announced today that it has acquired Lanihau Marketplace, an 88,300-square-foot shopping center in Kailua, Kona.

Hawaii County's labor costs will increase roughly $150,000 a year under Mayor Billy Kenoi's forthcoming proposal to combine vehicle-repair and transportation functions.

Farming sunshine may not become a reality for Kaua‘i after all.

A multimillion-dollar research project to investigate converting Hawaii's last sugar plantation to biofuel crops could mean the end of an era of another kind: cane burning.

North shore papaya farmer Kenneth Kamiya said wild pigs are devastating his crops and cutting into his profits.

High winds and surf forecast for all islands, state Senate budget grabs hotel tax, closes prison, half of Big Island babies exposed to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, senator and reporter bidding on newspaper, more

A high-wind advisory remains in effect for all islands until 6 tomorrow night.

The state's budget crisis continues to echo through the Capitol as the Senate prepares a budget that moves inmates to the mainland by closing a prison module, cuts the work year for school principals, and even includes a 3 percent pay cut for lawmakers, judges and state executives.

The state Senate Ways and Means Committee yesterday produced its draft of the state budget, avoiding a broad-based tax increase but scooping hotel-room taxes from the counties to help close the state's $1.2 billion deficit.

The state Department of Human Services will lay off nearly half of its 517 workers who process applications for government benefits and will shut down 31 eligibility offices statewide under a cost-cutting plan set to go into effect June 30.

A modernization and consolidation plan for some operations within the Department of Human Services would expand benefits for the needy and save the state about $8 million a year, the Lingle administration says.

Cockfighting is illegal, but that didn't stop Hawaii lawmakers from advancing a resolution yesterday recognizing its cultural value.

State Sen. Sam Slom, president and executive director of Smart Business Hawaii, and Malia Zimmerman, co-founder of online news journal Hawaii Reporter, have expressed an 11th-hour interest in purchasing the Honolulu Star-Bulletin.

Data for pregnant women on the Big Island suggest about half of the island's 37,892 children under age 18 were exposed before birth to alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use, researchers report.

The fourth installment of "Pirates of the Caribbean" doesn't begin filming until this summer, but they're already looking for extras. There will be two casting calls held in Oahu & Kauai

Local songwriter Roslyn Catracchia is asking the public to help in getting back her life’s work. Burglars broke into Catracchia’s home in Aina Haina Sunday, and stole computers that contained 20 years of her work.

Forced to make difficult budget decisions due to a dramatic drop in tax revenue collections, Mayor Charmaine Tavares has proposed to eliminate Maui County's only helicopter ambulance service, her staff said.

Keauhou Beach Resort's 40th anniversary celebration Sunday summoned memories for former employee Elaine Watai, of Kailua-Kona, who shared stories and old photographs of the hotel in its heyday.

Kaua‘i Island School’s robot won’t be coming home just yet.

Thousands "Just Go With It" and audition, Hulihee Palace opens years after earthquake, cockfighting debate in Legislature, man gets 20 years for shooting marijuana thief, Chinatown residents oppose homeless shelter, Heftel honored, more news

Ringed rice coral appears strikingly modest for a species that is caught in the struggle over greenhouse gas emissions.

Failing to implement “common-sense measures” and neglecting to secure an incidental take permit to help mitigate the deaths and injuries to rare native seabirds led conservation groups to file a lawsuit last week against Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, court documents show.

State lawmakers are again looking to raise the barrel tax on petroleum products to finance food and energy security programs, but this year there is a twist: most of the new revenue could initially help reduce the state's budget deficit.

About 200 Chinatown residents gathered at the Sun Yat Sen Cultural Center on Kukui Street yesterday to show their opposition to a proposed city project for chronically homeless people.

Thousands of people turned out in Maui for a chance to appear in the Adam Sandler-Jennifer Aniston movie "Just Go With It."

The prospect of being an extra in the upcoming Adam Sandler-Jennifer Aniston movie "Just Go With It" drew people like locusts Saturday to the Lipoa Center in Kihei.

It was a tribute to a trailblazer. A distinguished crowd turned out in downtown Honolulu Sunday afternoon to celebrate the life of the late congressman and broadcaster Cec Heftel.

Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states, but the practice continues in Hawaii. State lawmakers on Monday are expected to consider a resolution that recognizes the cultural, financial and historical aspects of the activity without making it legal again.

Animal rights groups are protesting a resolution before Hawai‘i lawmakers supporting the recognition of cockfighting as a cultural activity.

The Hawaii County Council will be sharpening its pencils next week, as the Finance Committee goes line-by-line over Mayor Billy Kenoi's spending plans for the fiscal year that starts July 1.

It's an age-old problem: You move into a new place, and none of your old stuff looks right in it.Hawaii County's solution: Spend another $400,000 on furniture and window treatments on top of the $24.6 million already spent to renovate the County Building on Aupuni Street.

New energy-efficiency building standards Hawaii County plans to start enforcing in May will be expensive, possibly unnecessary and may outlaw common home designs, says Puna Councilwoman Emily Naeole-Beason.

An Ocean View man convicted of manslaughter for shooting and killing an intruder was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison.

Shoes and slippers lined Hulihee Palace's entryway Saturday as residents and visitors meandered about the 172-year-old royal vacation home taking in its history and beauty for the first time since the museum closed its doors to the public more than three years ago.

With the housing market still wobbling like a Front Street reveler on Halloween, West Maui continues to have a glut of market-priced homes.

Jean Souza, the Kaua‘i programs coordinator for the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, said she received a call from Kaua‘i police dispatch reporting calls of a whale being born in the harbor.

Hawaii is in a position to develop as a model for holistic care in the new health care reform movement, says Shirley Otis-Green, a national authority on palliative care.

Senate reconsiders GET tax hike, candy to be banned from schools, Royal Hawaiian Band dodges budget bullet, state seeks Obama presidential library, NELHA opens fish market, Hilo Hospital thriving, more

State Sen. Donna Mercado Kim says her financial plans call for balancing the state budget without raising the general excise tax.

Candy and ice cream sales would be banned at Hawaii public schools under a measure that's close to passing the state Legislature.

President Barack Obama should put his future presidential library in Hawaii, where he was born and raised, according to state lawmakers.

The 174-year-old Royal Hawaiian Band is safe for now.

Barring an agreement between the state and the teachers union and funding from the state Legislature, next year's school calendar will include 17 furlough Fridays — leaving a total of 163 instructional days — under a recently approved public school calendar.

In a bid to crack down on longtime problem areas for prostitution, the Honolulu City Council is considering a bill that would target johns by impounding their cars.

Chinese and Korean visitors, two key targets for growth in the state's recovering tourism industry, find plenty to like about Waikiki but say the night life is lacking.

Honolulu police on Monday evening, caught a Hawaii State Hospital escapee with a violent record.

The federal health reform plan preserves Hawaii's pre-paid health care act of 1974 which has insured 92 percent of the state's population.

Family and friends of Nicole Scherzinger gathered in Makaha Valley to watch the premiere of season ten of "Dancing With The Stars."

Administrators are working to continue Hilo Medical Center's transformation from its humble beginnings as a small-town hospital to a major regional health care provider.

A new farmers market will open in less than two weeks, bringing aquaculture products grown at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority in North Kona to the public one Friday over the next four months.

Admittedly, the traffic mitigation plan to extend Waiale Road to Honoapiilani Highway will take a little imagination on the part of some people to envision, Maui County officials said this week.

The body of 58-year-old Kaua‘i resident Rodney Ahn found in Kalalau Valley last month prompted a state Department of Land and Natural Resources employee to raise questions about funding cutbacks, which he said are hurting the agency’s ability to perform its job.

Turtles get protection, economic signals mixed, developers' permits take years, state looks to loosen marijuana laws even as feds raid Cannabis Ministry, Hawaii County to consider ethics, more state news

The National Marine Fisheries Service and the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service jointly published a proposal to "up-list" North Pacific turtles to endangered under the Endangered Species Act.

The state Council on Revenues delivered mixed news yesterday: No need for any more state budget cuts to get through the fiscal year that ends in June, but the state will have to find more money to stay out of the red next year.

Hawaii's economy is showing signs of recovery, but uncertainty remains about how long it will be before the state fully emerges from recession

The momentum is shifting from negative to positive when it comes to the state general fund revenues.

The Council on Revenues Thursday forecast $48 million less in tax revenues to be collected by the state this fiscal year ending June 30, and next fiscal year.

Three marijuana bills are making their way through the Hawaii State Capitol.

Federal agents raided the downtown Hilo sanctuary of The Hawaii Cannabis Ministry Wednesday morning, assisted by local police.

Flag Bill Dead For Session

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources may issue a request for proposals for a kayak concession at Kealakekua Bay, the agency's director says.

A developer who hopes to build 3,500 homes makai of the H-2 freeway says farmers working on the land have found another place to plant.

It has taken six years, but Sterling Kim has gotten his final construction approvals from Maui County for phase one of his Hale Mua affordable housing project on about 200 acres mauka of Happy Valley.

The 16th iteration of a burial treatment plan that would allow Naue landowner Joseph Brescia to move forward with construction on his single-family home atop 30 known Hawaiian burials was approved this week by the State Historic Preservation Division.

The accrediting agency that six years ago raised serious concerns about the University of Hawai'i's operations is praising UH-Manoa for a big turnaround, saying the campus has "emerged from a difficult past," benefited from "stable" leadership and shows promise on meeting its goals.

Hawaii County's two bands will play on, according to County Council members working to preserve the $347,027 budget Mayor Billy Kenoi has proposed eliminating.

Dueling ethics proposals will be presented to the Hawaii County Council at an April 6 committee meeting, thanks to action taken Wednesday by the Board of Ethics.