Hawaii weather dampens Obama vacation, teachers to pay more insurance, Honolulu Mayor Carlisle outlines priorities, shipping, New Year's ahi to cost more, other news from the Hawaiian Islands

A moist and unstable airmass has prompted the National Weather Service office in Honolulu to extend the Flash Flood Watch through late tonight for the islands of Kauai, Niihau and Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

The unstable weather conditions that brought heavy showers to Oahu and Kauai yesterday are expected to continue through tonight. Star-Advertiser.

Heavy rainfall in West Oahu forced the closure of eastbound lanes on the H-1 freeway last night and the opening of westbound lanes to two-way traffic near Farrington Highway. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health has issued a brown water advisory for Maui from Waiehu Beach Park to Paukukalo and from Kealia Pond to Kalama Park due to heavy rains and flooding. Star-Advertiser.

Golfers teed off against Mother Nature Monday at the Mid Pacific Country Club in Lanikai. KITV4.

City work crews are tackling the worst potholes around town first and then going back to fill the smaller ones later. KITV4.

Locally heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms will affect Kaua‘i and the western islands of Hawai‘i at least through today and possibly into Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Garden Island.

That severely white Christmas that has blanketed the East Coast might possibly pay off in a holiday present for islanders—stable ahi prices for New Year's sashimi. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama went bowling, played hoops and topped off a cloudy, drizzly vacation day with a short trek for shave ice. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public school teachers will retain their health benefits but could have to pay more after they're forced to enroll in the same health insurance fund as most other state employees next week. Associated Press.

Rates for shipping to Hawaii are set to rise again next month, the latest upswing in charges that in total have increased the cost of shipping to the islands by 50 percent since 2003. Associated Press.

Keith Kaneshiro says there's a pending investigation of excessive use of overtime by Road Division employees. Civil Beat.

State regulators have granted Castle & Cooke Inc. a waiver allowing it to develop the state's largest solar farm on 120 acres of agriculture land near Mililani without facing competition from other bidders.Star-Advertiser.

Like the national administration, the new state administration has promised change in how state government will deliver services and programs. West Hawaii Today.

Two months into his tenure, Mayor Carlisle says he wants to make sure APEC goes well, but his priorities remain the same: putting Honolulu on a sound, sustainable financial path. Hawaii Independent.

A new law that bans tents and other structures from city sidewalks in urban Honolulu and Waikiki may take several more months to be fully implemented. KHON2.

Results of the 14-candidate race to fill a vacant Honolulu council district are to be released Wednesday evening. KHON2.

Water came rushing into Jim Boulton's work studio and part-time residence early Sunday morning as nearby wetlands and drainage systems in Kihei were overwhelmed by massive amounts of rainwater rolling down the slopes of Haleakala. Maui News.

Kekaha residents Bret Danson and Alix Barker have grown accustomed to seeing strange things in their neighborhood. Garden Island.

Sen. Josh Green not taking top doc post, Oahu property values stable, Maui County clerk at top of payroll, Hawaii Kai school fights closure, Abercrombie names more Cabinet heads, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

According to AAA the average for a gallon of gas at the pump in Hawaii is $3.46. That's up about 6 cents from just a week ago and about 23 cents from this time last year. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann returned to City Hall this morning. KHON2.

For his official portrait, former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann posed in front of his office desk of five years. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu properties have largely maintained their value through the past year, allowing city officials to breathe a sigh of relief that the revenue will keep flowing even as the city faces an anticipated $100 million shortfall in next year's $1.8 billion operating budget. Star-Advertiser.

New figures released by the City Wednesday show that overall, residential property values across Oahu increased point-4-percent based on the city's real property assessments for 2011. KHON2.

Federal authorities intend to impose less onerous temporary flight restrictions while President Obama and his family are vacationing in Kailua. Associated Press.

United Continental announced Wednesday the company will resume direct flights from the West Coast to Hilo International Airport beginning next June. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie named two more department heads and said he is "on the cusp" of completing his Cabinet with the final two nominees: attorney general and health director. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie promised swift action to bring back all Hawaii inmates serving sentences in mainland prisons in light of a new lawsuit alleging their mistreatment by guards at an Arizona facility. Star-Advertiser.

Neil Abercrombie's New Day plan calls for stopping the practice of sending prisoners out of state. Civil Beat.

Sen. Josh Green looks forward to staying in Senate. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Ethics Commission says it's selected Leslie Kondo to be its new executive director. Associated Press.

Carrying signs that read "Save our School," more than 400 angry parents and community members came out last night to oppose proposals that would close one of two high-performing Hawaii Kai elementary schools, saying both campuses give students a high-quality learning environment and that closing either of them would go against efforts to improve Hawaii's public education. Star-Advertiser.

Leona Rocha-Wilson, the newly elected Maui District representative on the state Board of Education, will serve as vice chairwoman of the board's Committee on Curriculum Instruction and Student Support. Maui News.

State dam inspectors said a dam above Haleiwa did not fail during heavy rains two years ago, although it was heavily damaged. KITV4.

Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa has chosen Maui County Council Member Jo Anne Johnson as his administration's transportation director. Maui News.

A pay raise that County Clerk Peter Nakamura received a year ago based on a Salary Commission recommendation and the Kaua‘i County Council’s approval put him at the top of the county’s pay roll, surpassing the salary of Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. Garden Island.

Since Dec. 1 when a majority of the Kaua‘i County Council appointed Peter Nakamura to continue serving as county clerk, some officials have remained embroiled in a controversy that stems in large part over their interpretation of the County Charter. Garden Island.

"Without a doubt, the number one issue and priority is to deal with the upcoming budget," noted Dominic Yagong, "This is my sixth term, and without a doubt, I know that this is going to be the toughest budget that the county has ever had to deal with." Big Island Weekly.

Hawaii will receive $425,000 from a $21 million settlement with Dannon Co. Inc. over the company's health claims for its Activia yogurt and DanActive dairy drink. Associated Press.

The Gas Company is trying more environmentally friendly ways to produce natural gas. KITV4.

A judge has ruled in favor of a lender in a foreclosure suit on a former Pacific Northwest logger who attempted to turn the former Haina sugar mill in Honokaa into a sawmill. Tribune-Herald.

A request for a special permit to build a condo at Lyman's surf spot goes back before the Leeward Planning Commission today. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Crop Improvement Association (HCIA), a nonprofit trade association, recently announced the impressive growth of the seed industry in our state –estimated at more than $220 million and growing at a rate of 26 percent every year. Honolulu Weekly.

The relationship between humans and honeybees is ancient, as demonstrated by cave paintings in Spain, South Africa, and Nepal, depicting honey hunters collecting honey from wild hives. Molokai Dispatch.

A young couple draped in a blue beach tarp huddle together under a tent on the beach—their infant child held close. For many, it’s not the usual Nativity scene. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii airports run smoothly, Kona coffee brand imperiled, city, federal officials guilty, UH mulls tuition hike, Black Friday beckons, more news

Reputation of Kona coffee is threatened. Quarantine could ruin brew's lofty status, price in industry. Tribune-Herald.

A state agriculture board approved a quarantine of Big Island green coffee beans. West Hawaii Today.

Invasive species are so pervasive in Hawaii's low-lying areas that the U.S. Forest Service says it's not cost-effective or practical to eradicate them all.  Associated Press.

A crowd of around 50 people was split about whether or not a federal permit for discharge of liquid from a Kekaha shrimp farm to the ocean should be renewed. Garden Island.

A federal judge on Tuesday sentenced to a month in jail a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employee who steered an earth-moving job at the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai to a company in which he was a partner. Star-Advertiser.

Despite the national controversy over air passenger security screening, operations at Honolulu Airport went smoothly yesterday, one of the year's busiest travel days. Star-Advertiser.

Thanksgiving travelers crowded Honolulu International Airport on their way to visit friends and family, but delays many feared would be caused by tightened security and security protests did not materialize. Hawaii News Now.

The members of the Garber family are not terrorists. They don't want to crash any airliners. Tribune-Herald.

State airport and Transportation Security Administration officials reported no problems with passenger security check-ins Wednesday at Kahului Airport. Maui News.

The 25th infantry will be sending more soldiers to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn. KHON2.

Abercrombie: Nonprofits Aren't Providing Case Management and Support for Veterans. Civil Beat.

Linda Lingle is in the final weeks of her job as Governor of Hawaii. KHON2.

The mother of Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, Frances Helena Lum Aiona, has died. Associated Press.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents is entertaining the idea of a tuition hike by fall 2012, the first such action since 2005. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaiii researchers are going door-to-door to ask women from the islands to participate in a study designed find answers to childhood problems such as asthma, autism, obesity, and diabetes. The National Children’s Study is the largest long-term study of children’s health ever conducted in the United States. Hawaii Independent.

A recent study suggests that Hawaii’s mahu students are at greater risk of violence than the general student population. Honolulu Weekly.

City Councilman Rod Tam pleaded guilty yesterday to 26 misdemeanor counts of theft and falsifying documents, and for the first time admitted to overcharging the city for meals unrelated to his work as a Council member. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Councilmember Rodney H.C.G. Tam pled guilty today to two counts of Theft in the Third Degree, eleven counts of Theft in the Fourth Degree, and thirteen counts of Unsworn Falsification to Authorities. Hawaii Reporter.

After 26-years on the force with the Honolulu Police Department, Louis Kealoha says the past year as Chief has been the hardest. KHON2.

Kamehameha Schools has proposed buying a 3.4-acre city parcel in Haleiwa for educational and park purposes that businessman D.G. "Andy" Anderson wants to develop for a boutique hotel. Star-Advertiser.

The forecast looks promising for stores in Hawaii.  Hawaii News Now.

Oahu retailers said Wednesday some shoppers are hitting the malls even earlier than Black Friday. KITV4.

The Hawaii County Council has scheduled a special session for Nov. 30 to reconsider a $56 million bond issue. West Hawaii Today.

Up until a few days ago, Kaua‘i County Council Chair Bill “Kaipo” Asing said he had intended to utilize his last meeting to shed more light on the recent harassment allegations that damaged his reputation. Garden Island.

Donald Fujimoto is out as county engineer and Janine Rapozo is out as transportation director, Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Sr. announced Wednesday. Garden Island.

Molokai Farmer without a farm? Not for long. Molokai Dispatch.

The slogan "made from scratch" rings true for The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory, which is marking its 10th anniversary. Big Island Weekly.

New Akaka Bill offered, IRS seeks Hawaii taxpayers, restaurant inspectors stretched, Hawaii marijuana heads to Colorado, recycling rates up, more state news

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka has introduced a compromise version of a native Hawaiian federal recognition bill and is waiting to hear from Senate leaders whether legislation can move during a lame-duck session before the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

The IRS is looking for people in Hawaii to give money to. The agency said Wednesday that 735 Hawaii residents are due a total of $739,000 in refunds, but it can't find them. Associated Press.

The state has set aside nothing to pay for retiree health benefits for its aging public workers over the next three decades, leaving future taxpayers on the hook for the estimated $10.8 billion cost. Star-Advertiser.

The largesse in congressional earmarks awarded to Hawaii each year is in position to be severely curtailed, with Republicans in Washington coalescing around a ban on pork-barrel projects and President Barack Obama saying the nation cannot afford them. Associated Press.

Millions of meals are served every year on Oahu but there are only 10 inspectors making sure health guidelines are followed which means there are plenty of violations out there that aren't being found. Hawaii News Now.

A group of Hawaii residents who say they are really good at growing pot said they have found success in the medical marijuana industry in Colorado. KITV4.

A state agricultural advisory committee has recommended an emergency quarantine on the Big Island to prevent the spread of a beetle that could severely damage Hawaii's $27-million coffee-farming industry. Star-Advertiser.

After a three-hour hearing today, the committee recommended in favor of a one-year quarantine but suggested adding more mitigation methods. A full board hears the matter next Tuesday. KHON2.

The state has increased the rates it pays for redeemable aluminum cans, glass bottles and plastic bottles. Associated Press.

A national organization has given the University of Hawaii a grade of "F" for online security breaches that exposed Social Security numbers and other sensitive information in nearly 260,000 records. Star-Advertiser.

The Washington D.C. based Liberty Coalition said over the last five years the University of Hawaii has had five security breaches involving at least 259,000 records. KITV4.

“Change, not charity” is the motto used by Hawaii People’s Fund (HPF) Hawaii Independent.

Tension and confusion about the state Tax Department's new crackdown on "cash economy" businesses escalated yesterday when city parks officials barred some vendors from learning about the new rules -- and Mayor Peter Carlisle took responsibility for the abrupt cancellation of the 36th annual Mayor's Craft and Country Fair scheduled for Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle said Wednesday the city needlessly cancelled a craft fair this weekend that raises money for senior clubs. KHON2.

Honolulu's 36th annual mayor's craft and country fair may happen after all. Hawaii News Now.

A proposal to lower the county homeowner tax exemption was deferred Tuesday by the Maui County Council Budget and Finance Committee. Maui News.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle says he's not happy about reports of excessive use of overtime by city road division employees and promised to look into the issue, following a series of stories Civil Beat published this week. Civil Beat.

Police have cited more than 700 Big Island drivers for driving while using a cell phone so far this year, including 38 instances linked to car crashes. Tribune-Herald.

Wild Donkey Round-Up Underway on Big Island. KITV4.

Most of the dogs received at the island’s only animal shelter later found homes, but the majority of cats collected were euthanized, according to the Kaua‘i Humane Society’s annual report to county officials. Garden Island.

After two years of multimillion dollar losses, Parker Ranch Foundation Trust made money last year and now wants to raise more by hosting special events at its Waimea rodeo arena. Tribune-Herald.

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has placed the island of Oahu under a Flash Flood Watch effective from 6:00PM this evening thru Friday afternoon. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui Fire Department officials are asking for an additional $1.1 million in funding, saying an unusually busy brush fire season has depleted their budget. Maui News.

They're all over the island: in former Hamakua cane fields, running across a'a in the Ka'u desert, crossing the Mauna Kea uplands: stretches of abandoned or semi-abandoned road, owned but no longer maintained by the state or the county. Big Island Weekly.

A West Hawaii subdivision is a step closer to getting county water, after a County Council committee gave its approval to a county department manager's plan to create a water improvement district there. West Hawaii Today.

Construction at Cooke Memorial Pool in Kaunakakai could not have come at a worse time for the Molokai High School (MHS) swim team. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii homeless grows, dolphins on endangered list, tax laws close down festivals, hotel guests join union protest, illinois strangler to join UH wife, website to help residents sell power, Obama mom to get endowment, Molokai mules leery of new bridge, more news

Visitors to Iolani Palace were treated to song and dance Tuesday morning, in celebration of King David Kalakaua. KHON2

The University of Hawaii Foundation is in the latter stages of forming an endowment fund that would honor Stanley Ann Dunham, the mother of President Barack Obama. Associated Press.

As Molokai residents and visitors alike rejoice in the opening of the new Kalaupapa pali trail, bridge the mules famous for taking visitors down the winding path are a little apprehensive.Molokai Dispatch.

A chaotic scene broke out last month at the Kailua Open Market when tax agents clamped down on so-called "cash economy" businesses, leading to cancellation of the 36th annual Mayor's Craft and Country Fair Saturday and prompting state tax officials to meet with vendors this afternoon at Makiki Park.Star-Advertiser.

Convicted murderer Justin Boulay was released from prison in Illinois yesterday, and when he arrives in Hawaii to live with the wife he married behind bars, he will join seven other people here convicted of homicide in other states. Star-Advertiser.

Justin Boulay is a free man after serving half of his 24-year sentence for strangling ex-girlfriend, Andrea Will, with a phone cord in Illinois. Hawaii News Now.

The federal government said Tuesday it will recommend that a small population of dolphins living near Hawai‘i be placed on the endangered species list. Associated Press.

Hawaii hostelries, led by Maui, continue to scramble back toward financial health, but although they have come a long way, they have yet a long way to go. Maui News.

The number of homeless people on Oahu rose 5 percent under one key measure in the last fiscal year, according to a new report that also sheds new light on the health and education of homeless children. Star-Advertiser.

The Center on the Family at UH Mānoa and the Homeless Programs Office of the state Department of Human Services have released the Homeless Service Utilization Report: Hawai‘i 2010. Hawaii Reporter.

A state task force formed to curb illegal fireworks imports is winding down its work and hoping to make recommendations to lawmakers when the Legislature convenes in January. Star-Advertiser.

State Sen. Will Espero said Tuesday he will push for an increase of inspections of containers to check for shipments of illegal fireworks. KITV4.

It's possible, though not likely, that next year's reapportionment will give the Big Island greater representation in the state Legislature. West Hawaii Today.

Yet to serve a single day as an elected member of the state Senate, Lihu‘e resident Ron Kouchi has secured a few key roles in the Legislature. Garden Island.

Hotel workers unhappy about the progress of contract talks with management at the Hilton Hawaiian Village employed a new tactic Tuesday. They took their protest onto hotel property, a place that is usually a sanctuary for guests. Hawaii News Now.

Union hotel workers staged a loud march through the main lobby of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Rainbow Tower Tuesday evening. They were joined by sympathetic attendees of a major convention that's in town. KITV4.

The Big Island's entire state legislative delegation has banded together over concerns with a Public Utilities Commission decision. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's newly elected congresswoman is getting used to calling Washington, D.C. home.KHON2.

Michael Saalfeld, a German industrialist and biofuel pioneer, has purchased the North Kohala acreage Parker Ranch quietly sold in August, according to government records. West Hawaii Today.

Unlike recessions that can hit with little warning, the approaching economic impact of Hawaii's aging population is like a freight train loudly sounding its horn in the distance to give those in its path time to prepare.Star-Advertiser.

Road to Riches: City Workers Claimed 5,525 Overtime Hours for Illegal Stream Dumping. Civil Beat.

The problem with Koke‘e Road in Koke‘e State Park is one of jurisdiction and Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie has vowed to be the one who solves this problem, said state Sen. Ron Kouchi, D-Kaua‘i-Ni‘ihau. Garden Island.

Departing Maui County Council Member Jo Anne Johnson on Monday said she wants to see her successors make certain that some developers and homeowners are held responsible for road projects built by Maui County - with taxpayer money - to support new, small, private subdivisions. Maui News.

A website is being launched for a new program that allows Hawaii residents and businesses to apply to sell their renewable energy to the electric utility. Associated Press.

The Kamaile Academy governing board gets rid of administrators strongly supported by parents, in order to get grants for the school. KITV4.

The State Sheriffs Division is getting a new home. KHON2.

The City and County of Honolulu awarded $1 million in grants-in-aid as part of its Leeward Coast Community Benefits Program.Hawaii Independent.

Trevor Ridinger's smart phone doubles as his camera. It's the University of Hawaii student's window to the world. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu faces $100M shortfall, pro-development planning director picked, Kona coffee quarantine mulled, bag ban booted, media group files FCC complaint, more on Akaka Bill, Inouye, other Hawaii news

Photo (c) 2010 allhawaiinews

A long-sought federal law allowing native Hawaiians to form their own government stands little chance of passing Congress before year's end, and its approval may be even less likely after a Republican House majority takes office in January. Associated Press.


Sen. Dan Inouye is on his way to a 9th term in the U.S. Senate and another stint as Senate Appropriations Committee Chair. KHON2.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie will get to appoint every member of the new Board of Education, but how much leeway he has in choosing candidates is still up in the air.Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle predicts the city could face a budget shortfall of more than $100 million next year so he’s making major cuts to the city's construction plan to help balance the budget. KITV4.

The man Mayor Peter Carlisle wants to run the city's planning department told Civil Beat Tuesday that he can't think of a major development project he's opposed. Civil Beat.

Honolulu County's latest effort to ban plastic bags appears stalled and unable to advance despite successful plastic bag bans in Maui and Kauai counties. KITV4.

Free Press, the nation’s leading media reform organization, will bring the concerns of Hawaiians directly to the FCC, filing complaints about Raycom Media’s takeover of 3 TV stations in Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Kahuku High School will not play another football game this season, after a court denied an injunction that would have put them back in the state playoffs. KHON2.

A planned week-long closure of the H-power plant for maintenance has resulted in major backups at the Waimanalo Gulch landfill. KHON2.

Unite Here Local 5 has announced it has reached a tentative new contract that would cover nearly 1,800 workers at Kaiser Permanente Hawaii. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Board of Realtors reports October residential resales were down from the same month last year. Associated Press.

As night fell over the Hawaiian Islands Tuesday Australian long distance swimmer Penny Palfrey was believed to be swimming somewhere in the Kaieie Waho Channel between Oahu and Kauai. She was trying to become the first person to swim the 72 mile crossing. Hawaii News Now.

A number of dust devils popped up over Central Oahu on Tuesday, viewers reported. KITV4.

The Waianae Coast is a place of spectacular coastlines, dramatic backdrops, and a rich history. Hawaii Independent.

State agriculture officials will consider an embargo on inter-island shipments of Kona green coffee beans at a meeting scheduled for Nov. 17 in Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.

A Nov. 17 meeting has been set to discuss one or more quarantine zones for Big Island coffee to combat the spread of the coffee berry borer. Tribune-Herald.

At a time when the Maui Police Department is filling its ranks with police officers, the Maui County Council's Budget and Finance Committee recommended Monday to accept a $1.63 million federal grant to employ six new officers. Maui News.

Herman Andaya Jr. has been picked as chief of staff for the new administration of Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa, according to an announcement Monday. Maui News.

Site sought for Kona judiciary complex. West Hawaii Today.

The second largest public charter school in the state has dismissed its top two administrators. Associated Press.

After a yearlong delay for redesign, Connections Public Charter School is moving forward with its master plan for a $20 million, 90,000-square-foot campus on state land in upper Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A South Kohala developer who failed to meet a state deadline to build affordable housing wants a two-year extension. West Hawaii Today.

Where was everyone? That was a question on a lot of minds Monday night when the county’s Anti-Drug Office hosted its first of four community meetings centering on the theme of “Taking Care of Our ‘Ohana Is Our Kuleana.” Garden Island.

Simply defined, horticulture means “cultivation of gardens” or “simple agriculture without many tools.” Molokai Dispatch.

The Kalaupapa National Historical Park has announced repairs have been completed to the only land route to the leprosy settlement on Molokai. Associated Press.

Tension among Hawaii campers, fishers, Molokai mule trail reopening, shearwaters freed, counties settle in with new leaders, Inouye profiled, schools face consolidation, more Hawaii news

Photo (c) 2010 allhawaiinews

Sen. Daniel Inouye will soon begin his 9th consecutive term in the United States Senate.KHON2.

Efforts to challenge the Hawaiians-first admission policy at Kamehameha Schools suffered another setback on Monday. KITV4.

What 2010 Election Results Mean For Filipinos. Filipino Chronicle.

The Kalaupapa Pali Trail has reopened, and just like Mainland beach bunnies and surfer dudes try to slim down and buff up for summer after a long winter, the 22 mules that haul visitors and residents up and down are in cardio training in expectation of going back to work. Maui News.

Morris and Thurston Kamealoha grew up camping along the beaches that line the Waianae Coast but now have to camp out at Kapolei Hale just to get a camping permit and want city officials to make it easier to gain overnight beach access. Star-Advertiser.

To help remedy tension between Hana fishermen and outsiders who want to fish at a buoy put out by the Hana community, proposals involving fishing restrictions and adding additional buoys surfaced Saturday at a meeting held to address the user conflicts around the fish-aggregating devices, which outsiders have reported led to threats against them. Maui News.

One ‘a‘o cooed softly while being examined by a Save Our Shearwaters staff member. Another nipped, but others were quiet while the routine procedures of weighing, banding and recording various statistics were being done prior to their release last week. Garden Island.

Peter Carlisle was sworn in four weeks ago and has already made himself comfortable in office. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council has introduced Bill 55 (2010) to amend the historic residential property tax exemption ordinance by requiring the property owner to pay some unspecified percentage of the assessed value, rather than the minimum annual tax that is currently required. Hawaii Reporter.

City Councilman Nestor Garcia took the reins of the City Council yesterday, ascending to chairman upon the resignation of Todd Apo, who has taken a job with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

A special election to serve out the term of Honolulu City Councilman Todd Apo has been set for Dec. 29. Associated Press.

The County Council has reorganized for the upcoming two-year term starting Dec. 6, and the balance of power has shifted away from Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

With a new mayoral administration taking office Jan. 3, several members of Mayor Charmaine Tavares' Maui Wastewater Working Group worried aloud last week that their work over the past 13 months to dramatically reduce Maui County's use of injection wells will be for nothing. Maui News.

In about two months 24 new "clean diesel" city buses will begin replacing bulkier gas guzzlers now on the streets. Star-Advertiser.

Three years after promising to bring anti-bullying programs into every school, the Hawaii Department of Education has yet to deliver. Civil Beat.

Another school complex is up for consolidation. KHON2.

Decision on Kahuku affects more than just high school football. KHON2.

Attorneys for Kahuku High football players and parents on Monday filed a motion for a temporary restraining order against the Oahu Interscholastic Association, the Hawaii High School Athletic Association and state schools superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi in hopes of getting the Red Raiders into the state tournament, which is set to kick off this Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Criminal justice systems around the country are using canines to coax children to talk, when those kids are reluctant to do so. And now the first courthouse dog is being trained in Hawaii.KITV4.

A certain kind of Omega-3 called EPA is responsible for producing compounds that reduce blood clotting, thus helping to prevent a range of ailments, like thrombosis, atherosclerosis, and heart attacks. Hawaii Independent.

The Hawaii County Band is still making the music instead of facing it, despite reduced funding and an uncertain future. Tribune-Herald.

Dinah Kunitake's gloved hands expertly maneuvered over the clumps of coffee cherries Sunday morning, quickly plucking the soft, ruby ones and leaving the hard, green ones on the twiggy branches. West Hawaii Today.

Kona farmer still picks coffee despite blindness. West Hawaii Today.

Habitat Completes First ‘Off-The-Grid’ Home. Molokai Dispatch.

Polls are open, early voting a hit, Obama makes last tele-pitch, GOP confident, Kauai looks back to '42 elections, Blue Ribbon Schools named, more Hawaii news

With just 24 hours left before election day, more than 152,000 votes had already been cast via mail-in or early walk-in voting, election officials said Monday. Civil Beat.

Federal election observers are monitoring Honolulu polling places to ensure voters' rights are protected in the general election. Associated Press..

With hours left before polls opened across Hawaii, candidates and party volunteers flooded streets and phone banks trying to squeeze out any undecided votes before Election Day. KITV4.

Hawaii voters today elect a new governor for the first time since 2002, setting the state's political course for the next four and perhaps eight years. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama made a personal pitch to Hawaii Democrats yesterday, telling them that today's general election is just as important as his victory two years ago to make progress on issues such as education and health care. Star-Advertiser.

Voters in Hawaii got a Presidential pep talk - just hours before polls open in the state. Hawaii News Now.

Congressman Charles Djou spent his final day of the campaign in much the same way he spent the past five-and-a-half months since winning a special election in May to fill the remainder of Neil Abercrombie’s term in Congress – telling audiences that runaway deficit spending in Washington, D.C. cannot continue unabated. KHON2.

Hundreds of thousands of last-minute dollars have poured into closely contested races for Hawaii governor and the 1st Congressional District over the last two weeks. Associated Press.

For dozens of poll workers, Election Day began yesterday afternoon when they began carting voting booths into school cafeterias and recreation centers to turn them into voting sites. Star-Advertiser.

When Maui County voters go to the polls Tuesday, they'll decide whether to send local incumbents back for another term or to take a chance on a fresh face. Maui News.

After election, talking stink goes from roars to whispers. Star-Advertiser.

Between Nov. 10 and Nov. 18, the Public Access Room will conduct a series of free neighborhood workshops entitled, “We the Powerful!” Garden Island.

The controversial elections of ’42. Garden Island.

King Liholiho, Koko Head and Waialua elementary schools -- named Blue Ribbon schools yesterday at a ceremony in Waikiki -- all have those things as part of their recipes for success in an increasingly challenging educational landscape. Star-Advertiser.

Waialua Elementary, Koko Head Elementary and King Liholiho Elementary Schools were named Blue Ribbon Schools today by Frito-Lay of Hawaii and the Hawaii State Department of Education at the Hawaii Distinguished Schools awards held at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort and Spa. Hawaii Reporter.

Man leaves $125K to St. Joseph School. Tribune-Herald.

Film Garden Entertainment is on a wild hog chase. West Hawaii Today.

Monsanto’s new Omega-3 soybean: Healthy or hazardous? Hawaii Independent.

Hillary Clinton visit puts Hawaii on world stage, Djou could be key to GOP majority, big changes for education, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Hawaii, pool photo

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in town. Hawaii News Now.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is calling on China to clarify its policy on the export of rare earth minerals, exotic metals essential for the success of key high-tech industries. Associated Press.

The United States and Japan, grappling with the curtailment of strategically important rare-earth minerals from China, said late Wednesday both countries would need to find alternative sources of supply for these elements, as they sought to present a unified front in an increasingly tense Asian region. New York Times.

"New challenges" facing the United States and Japan will require the two nations "to deepen our dialogue, " U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said last night in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

The United States and Japan say they agree that "the entire world" must begin to develop new sources of rare earth minerals after receiving a "wake-up call" from China. Voice of America.

Honolulu serves as host for international talks, solidifying the relationship between the United States and Japan. KITV4.

Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara has paid his respects to U.S. war dead at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Associated Press.

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will deliver a major policy speech at The Kahala Hotel and Resort this morning. She is expected to take the podium at 8:30 a.m. Hawaii News Now.

Japanese Foreign Minister Seiji Maehara hailed the accomplishments of Japanese-Americans, saying Japanese immigrants have become deeply rooted in American society after enduring severe hardships. Associated Press.

A fill-in Republican congressman has a shot at winning a full-term job in Hawaii, a Democratic stronghold and President Barack Obama's birth state. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Charles Djou yesterday brought out a group of small business owners who support his message of trying to reform a "fiscally irresponsible" Congress, while his opponent Colleen Hanabusa called him "hypocritical" for preaching fiscal restraint after spending $156,000 of taxpayer money during his first few weeks in office. Star-Advertiser.

Supporters of the measure to legalize marijuana in California say it'll do a lot to help their financial woes.  Opponents say it will jeopardize public safety.  Would this work for Hawaii?  Here's what our candidates for governor had to say about that. Hawaii News Now.

Neil Abercrombie met separately with union and business leaders in Hilo on Tuesday in the furious final week of campaign season. Tribune-Herald.

Six weeks ago, a coalition of four Hawaii citizens' groups -- Voter Owned Hawaii and the state chapters of the League of Women Voters, the Sierra Club and Common Cause -- sent e-mails to every candidate in Hawaii state elections, inviting them to pledge their support for comprehensive public funding for elections. Big Island Weekly.

Keanae resident Meiling Akuna has spent zilch on her campaign to unseat state District 13 House Rep. Mele Carroll. Maui News.

The Army's bid to resume live-fire training at Makua Valley hit a snag yesterday when a federal judge ruled that the Army failed to adequately study the impacts on potential cultural sites and seaweed at Makua Beach. Star-Advertiser.

A new Civil Beat poll of 1,181 likely voters found 60.6 percent support a constitutional amendment on the Nov. 2 ballot that would replace the elected board with one appointed by the governor. Civil Beat.

Research suggests that it’s not about how school board members get their jobs. It’s about the ways they think and talk about schools. Honolulu Weekly.

When it was announced in August, Hawaii's $75 million “Race to the Top” federal grant sounded like a done deal. KITV4.

Hawaii's public school system is on the eve of one of the most important labor negotiations in its modern history, according to education and union leaders. KITV4.

Construction of the $50.5 million West Hawaii Civic Center in Kailua-Kona is within budget and on target for completion by the end of the year with county departments moved in soon after, a county official said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

A project to improve the arrival experience for international visitors at Honolulu airport is complete. KHON2.

One of the greatest issues that will face the next Maui County Council is the proposed change to how members are elected. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle on Wednesday signed a bill aimed at keeping public sidewalks clear of obstructions. KITV4.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares has still raised more money for her campaign overall, but challenger Alan Arakawa has filled his war chest with a big post-primary fundraising push, candidate spending reports show. Maui News.

Ka'u Councilman Guy Enriques' controversial proposal to sell a county-owned road is being delayed to help him win re-election, Hamakua Councilman Dominic Yagong has alleged. Tribune-Herald.

County officials this week repeatedly refused to answer questions about Dexter Shimatsu, 62, of ‘Ele‘ele, the former county Department of Liquor Control supervisor who allegedly sent harassing e-mails to a co-worker using his employee account. Garden Island.

After 30 years of protecting native animals and plants, the head of Hawaii's agricultural inspection operation leaves behind a short-handed and beleaguered team today, worried that invading species are slipping into the islands. Star-Advertiser.

On the outskirts of St. Louis, Missouri, Monsanto’s Chesterfield Village Research Center can easily be missed from the freeway—its buildings tucked deep behind long driveways that traverse up a steady hill. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. has restored power to some 23,000 customers in various parts of the Big Island. Associated Press.

An extensive study into cancer in Hawaii is helping shed light on the disease and the toll it takes on our population. KHON2.

Over 6,000 people in Hawai‘i are diagnosed with cancer every year. Hawaii Reporter.

A small parasite is quickly spreading across the globe...and Hawaii is not immune. KHON2.

Hawaii politics get dirty, HPD officers cited for OT violations, doctors' licenses revoked, Molokai solar maxed out, elect or appoint BOE debated, more news

A panel of Kauaians and others with strong opinions about the federal humpback whale sanctuary will make their pitches at a free discussion. Garden Island.

More than half of Hawaii voters support a constitutional amendment to switch from an elected school board to an appointed one, but with a significant percentage of undecided voters, the proposal could fail with a combination of "no" and blank votes, according to new Hawaii Poll results. Star-Advertiser.

A movement to replace Hawaii's Board of Education with appointed members has gained steam largely because voters often find themselves voting for candidates they do not know. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii voters will have more to contemplate than just gubernatorial and Congressional races when they step into voting booths next week. Hawaii Reporter.

An expert on Northeast Asian political and security issues at the East-West Center said he doesn't expect any bombshell announcements by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on a stopover Wednesday and Thursday in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Both Neil Abercrombie and Duke Aiona are feeling the love from voters. Hawaii News Now.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, the Democratic candidate for governor, and his running mate for lieutenant governor have raised more than twice the campaign contributions of Republican Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona and his running mate since the September primary. Star-Advertiser.

If Filipino voters had their way, former Congressman Neil Abercrombie will be the seventh governor of the state of Hawaii. Filipino Chronicle.

Democratic party candidate for Hawaii governor Neil Abercrombie has raised more than twice as much money as his GOP oppponent Duke Aiona from Sept. 19 through October 18 -- final reporting period before the general election. KITV4.

Democratic governor candidate raised more than twice as much money as Aiona in the month following primary election. Civil Beat.

If elected Duke Aiona and Lynn Finnegan promise to start a College Tuition Assurance Program. KITV4.

Republican candidate for governor James "Duke" Aiona is proposing that Hawaii colleges and universities freeze tuition at the level paid by students during their freshmen years. Associated Press.

Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Neil Abercrombie is criticizing a decision by Gov. Linda Lingle not to disburse about $24 million to several community programs. Associated Press.

Democratic congressional candidate Colleen Hanabusa is criticizing a TV ad by the National Republican Congressional Committee that suggests actions by her fiance may have been corrupt. Associated Press.

A new television commercial by national Republicans against Colleen Hanabusa and her husband ranks among the "dirtiest Hawaii has ever seen," the Democrat's campaign says. Star-Advertiser.

Democrat Daniel Inouye has represented Hawaii in the U.S. Senate for nearly 48 years, and Republican Cam Cavasso thinks that's long enough. Associated Press.

District 10 state House hopeful Ramon Madden points to the shipwrecked sailboat lying in the ocean off Front Street as an example of how state Rep. Angus McKelvey has not effected change in his West Maui and north Kihei district. Maui News.

Just 154 votes. That was the difference between the two finalists in the Hawaii County Council District 6 primary. West Hawaii Today.

Two Hawaii County Council members wrote letters in favor of releasing outspoken Big Island marijuana advocate Roger Christie from custody pending his trial in federal court for conspiracy, marijuana manufacture, possession and distribution. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa welcomed a new state of the art addition to its campus this morning. KHON2.

Nearly $24 million dollars approved by the legislature to help social service programs will not be released by the governor's office. KHON2.

Norwegian Cruise Line has agreed to pay more than $140,000 and improve services for disabled travelers on its cruises. Associated Press.

Residents looking to include renewable energy to power their homes in Kalae, Kualapu`u and parts of Ho`olehua must now join the waiting line. Like Kaunakakai, the power circuit is temporarily tapped out. Molokai Dispatch.

Senior citizens strum out a song and stretch out their muscles at the Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Medical Board revoked the licenses of two doctors for failing to disclose their legal problems in other states. KITV4.

Seven Honolulu police officers are being charged with misdemeanors for allegedly claiming excess overtime. Associated Press.

Seven Honolulu police officers have been charged in connection with an overtime abuse investigation. KHON2.

Two sergeants and five police officers attached to traffic enforcement with the Honolulu Police Department are accused of padding their overtime. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii man is in federal custody tonight awaiting extradition to New York to face charges that he lied in a matter involving international terrorism. KHON2.

The illegal dump site between Waipahu High School and Pearl Harbor is tough to see, unless you're looking from above. Hawaii News Now.

Candidates making a bid for political office had an opportunity to experience the proposed next phase of the multi-use path, Friday afternoon on the Eastside. Garden Island.

The overall scheme of Koolau Poko’s updated Sustainable Communities Plan is firstly the protection of cultural, agricultural, natural, and scenic resources. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Gov. Lingle takes 'serious' look at 2012 Senate seat, feds ban campaign money limits, charter school enrollment up, more on food stamps, Honolulu voter confidentiality breached, UH rally boosts voting, Hawaii Five-0 set for season, more

In a performance worthy of the excruciatingly slow decision-making process of former Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Gov. Linda Lingle is toying with a run for the U.S. Senate in 2012. Star-Advertiser.

 The two top candidates for urban Honolulu's congressional seat argued about spending for social security benefits in their last live, televised debate before the election Thursday night. KITV4.


An independent expenditure committee called Working Families For Hawaii has launched a TV ad portraying GOP congressional candidate Charles Djou as a lock-step Republican who votes to hurt Hawaii. KITV4.

The two candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District have sparred over the economy, government spending and senior citizen programs such as Social Security and Medicare. Associated Press.


 A federal court’s decision to stop the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission from enforcing a limit on contributions received by political committees doing only independent spending for political speech will remain in effect for now, according to the federal appeals court. Hawaii Reporter.

Non-partisan ‘Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote’ rally at UH Manoa raises voter awareness. Hawaii Independent.

More Hawaii working families getting government food aid. Associated Press.

Hawaii didn't fare too well in a new national survey of policies covering how mothers and expectant mothers are treated in prison. Associated Press.

Stimulus supporting state energy storage. Maui News.

Molokai General Hospital (MGH) has recently completed installation of the largest solar electricity generation system on the island. Molokai Dispatch.

Aunty Puanani Lindsey shares a pule/oli (prayer/chant) for the Earth with those joining her on weekly volunteer service trips to malama (care for) Honokowai Valley or Hanaula. Lahaina News.

Next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Honolulu is expected to generate some $120 million in economic impact for Hawaii. Associated Press.

Teen traffic deaths have declined dramatically over the past six years. KHON2.

New Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro has added three new deputy prosecutors including a former legislator who was convicted of drunken driving and the Honolulu police chief's wife. KITV4.

Former lawmaker joining Honolulu prosecutor's office. KHON2.

Hawaii Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu is taking a job in the Honolulu city prosecutor's office after an unsuccessful run for lieutenant governor. Associated Press.

The Honolulu office of elections promises to protect the confidentiality of voters who face life threatening circumstances, but Civil Beat has learned that it doesn't live up to its word. Civil Beat.

The race to represent Puna makai on the Hawaii County Council is between a colorful, two-term incumbent and a retired businessman. Tribune-Herald.

The number of students attending public charter schools statewide continued to grow this year, even though no new campuses opened, while enrollment at regular public schools was largely unchanged. Star-Advertiser.

Public school enrollment on the Big Island continued its slow decline this year. Tribune-Herald.

Ryan Ozawa may well be the most influential social media maven in Hawaii, although one is hard-pressed to get him to admit it. Hawaii Independent.

Pesky problem apparently wiped out in Maui. KHON2.

Waikiki hotels ran fuller last week despite a strike at Hilton Hawaiian Village, and occupancy also rose in Maui County, but fell on Kauai and the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

A federal bankruptcy judge in New York has approved a reorganization for General Growth Properties that will split it into two companies. Hawaii News Now.

An envisioned high-rise condominium on top of the Nordstrom parking garage at Ala Moana Center will be one project taken over by a major new player in Honolulu's condominium development scene, as part of the bankruptcy reorganization of mall owner General Growth Properties. Star-Advertiser.

Bad news for the terrorists, gang lords and street scum running amok in town: CBS Television gave "Hawaii Five-0" yesterday a full 22-episode season to fight crime. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii County Council accepted a pared-down slate of exemptions for a North Kona affordable housing development, but delayed approving the document until county officials and developers have more time to review and refine the request. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council on Wednesday approved an amended Puna Community Development Plan that's now headed to Mayor Billy Kenoi's desk. Tribune-Herald.

At Kapa‘a High School, Christine Farina has taken part in an organization to help teach her economics class what business is all about. Garden Island.

Maui County Council members voted 6-2 late Tuesday to approve the Kula Ridge project that promises to build 59 affordable homes for senior citizens and single families. Maui News.