Obama Hawaii birth certificate released, human trafficking bill advances, Ed Board gets to work, pilot medical marijuana bill advances, Hawaii County going green, more island news

Obama Hawaii Birth Certificate

The White House released the long form of President Barack Obama’s birth certificate Wednesday in response to questions about whether he was really born in the U.S. Associated Press.

He’s No ‘Birther’ but Hawaii Senator Tackles Issues Surrounding Obama’s Birth Certificate. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are killing a proposal that would have allowed residents to pay off upfront costs of solar panels and other energy-saving appliances through their power bills. Associated Press.

Hawaii may well be on its way to finally putting a human trafficking statute on the books. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers say they're close to reaching a compromise on implementing a law that lengthens the school day. Star-Advertiser.

The new appointed Board of Education held its first public meeting on Tuesday. KHON2.

After taking a moment to recognize their elected predecessors, the appointed Board of Education tackled its first meeting yesterday, approving new bylaws and committees while pledging to find and fix problems in Hawaii’s public education system. Star-Advertiser.

Public hospital nurses in Hawaii said they rejected a proposal for 5 percent pay cuts because they are already woefully underpaid compared to the private sector. KITV4.

The attorney general wants you to do a little spring cleaning in your medicine cabinet. Hawaii News Now.

A two-year pilot program to establish a medical marijuana distribution center aims to treat patients and crack down on abuses that have led to more than 500 people under age 21 receiving marijuana prescriptions in Hawaii County alone, a state senator said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County officials are hoping to lead by example by establishing a baseline for carbon emissions and fossil fuel use, then working to reduce both figures, the county's Green Team coordinator says. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Small Business Administration Tuesday opened a temporary SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center on Oahu to assist residents and businesses affected by the March 11 tsunami. Pacific Business News

Fuel price increases are hitting home for the county Department of Water Supply, which on Tuesday recommended a 9 percent hike to the power cost surcharge the utility charges on top of a previously planned 6.8 percent general water rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Merrie Monarch Festival Schedule Of Events. Tribune-Herald.

A wonderful gift arrived at Kilohana School last month – a computer for every fourth through sixth grade student to use in the classroom. Molokai Dispatch.

Ground will be broken at 10 a.m. today for a Courtyard by Marriott hotel near Kahului Airport. Maui News.

Kathy Miyake of Central Pacific Bank was installed to a two-year term as president of the Kaua‘i United Way before more than 100 people who attended the 68th Annual Meeting and Mahalo Celebration recently at Duke’s Canoe Club at Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

Hawaii gas highest in the nation, state workers to get 64 days off, appointed ed board seated, West Hawaii gets new civic center, Hilo sewer leak could go to sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gas prices (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline hit a nation-leading $4.46 on Thursday, 28 cents higher than second-place California. Associated Press.

With gas prices on Oahu around $4.50 a gallon, the operators of the city's bus system said more people are buying bus passes and taking the bus. KITV4.

Gas prices in Wailuku, Maui reached a new all-time record price on Wednesday, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. KHON2.

House Republicans question amount of paid time off for state workers. Hawaii News Now.

Ratification vote dates have been set for members of the state's largest public worker union to decide on a new contract. KHON2.

Hawaii saw 2,447 initial jobless claims filed during the week ending April 9, down 14.7 percent from the 2,868 claims filed during the same week last year, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News

McDonald's restaurants are looking to fill 1,000 jobs in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Two of Hawaii’s largest hotel brands, Hilton and Starwood, are likely to host three of the top countries at the 2011 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November, and other hotels cleared for the high-level international event are in the final stages of negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s health disparities and gaps in care need community collaboration to help residents make healthier choices and to increase longevity among the state’s neediest population, according to a report that will be released today.Star-Advertiser.

In an unusual display of bipartisan acclaim, nine new members of the board of education were confirmed by the state senate Thursday and were to take office immediately. KITV4.

The State Senate approved Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s nominees for Hawaii’s Board of Education on Thursday, Hawaii Independent.

Representatives of more than 50 social service agencies rallied at the state Capitol yesterday to urge lawmakers to restore proposed cuts to human services programs. Star-Advertiser.

PHOCUSED gathered its members and supporters — some with walkers, some in wheelchairs — Thursday in the Rotunda, most wearing green, all fighting to protect their share of the haupia. Civil Beat.

Citizens concerned with Hawaii Legislature’s plan to hike their taxes will hold “tea parties” across the state on Friday, April 15. Hawaii Reporter.

County officials and former elected officials recalled the long process it took to bring the West Hawaii County Civic Center to fruition Thursday as they formally dedicated the new facility. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County may have to release raw sewage into Hilo Bay in order to fix a sewer pipe found leaking Saturday, its Department of Environmental Management announced Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Now that the county's land fund is back in the budget, Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann wants to expand the list of eligible properties and give the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission more power to set priorities. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii Community College chancellor search committee has named four finalists for the position. Garden Island.

Three new cases of dengue fever are suspected in Hana, along with a possible case in Haliimaile and an additional two or three Upcountry, according to health officials. Maui News.

Sparks were flying Thursday morning between County Council members during a heated discussion at the Nawiliwili Council Chambers. Garden Island.

The Honolulu medical examiner's office says three of the victims in an underground fireworks blast last week suffered carbon monoxide inhalation before dying.Associated Press.

Hawaii tax hike nixed, union contract under fire, birther suit rejected, journalism shield law extended, dengue fears widen, education board pau, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu tour bus (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A Norwegian Cruise Line company is bringing seven open-top, double-decker tour buses to Honolulu, a move that's expected to add 60 jobs in the islands. Associated Press.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee voted Thursday to kill a proposal to raise Hawaii's broadest tax. Hawaii News Now.

The Ways and Means Committee killed a hike in the general excise tax after the chairman faced a rare revolt from some committee members Thursday morning. KITV4.

A general excise tax hike has been killed by lawmakers, but businesses and nonprofits still may face a $200 million jump in taxes. KHON2.

Thursday's decision by the Senate Ways and Means committee to rule out a general excise tax increase means lawmakers may have to strengthen at least a dozen surviving revenue bills to close the state's budget gap. Civil Beat.

The Abercrombie administration agreed to a “favored nation” clause in a tentative contract with the Hawaii Government Employees Association that gives the union the ability to match gains won by other unions, sources say. Star-Advertiser.

State Republicans are calling the tentative agreement with HGEA "expensive and unfair" and say how its being pitched deceptive and misleading. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle says city officials “still have many questions and concerns” about the statewide labor agreement reached by Governor Neil Abercrombie with Hawaii’s largest government workers union. Hawaii Reporter.

Questions linger around HGEA contract agreement. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Thursday identified 61 capital improvement projects that are currently under way as part of his New Day Works Projects, which are meant to create jobs and stimulate the economy. Pacific Business News

The economic crisis that refuses to leave the Hawaiian Islands has not been sufficient to sink the idea of a state-run interisland ferry system, introduced this year through a bill sailing through rough waters in the Legislature. Garden Island.

Measures that would have provided state funds to the Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission have stalled for this year, after legislators raised questions about the agency's management of the island. Maui News.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced a bill extending the state’s journalism shield law an additional two years. Star-Advertiser.

It is the end of the road for the elected board members, many of whom have given much of their time to try and improve the state's public school system. KITV4.

A Hawaii appeals court has rejected a man's request to "inspect and copy" Honolulu-born President Barack Obama's birth certificate, saying the plaintiff failed to state a valid claim to having access to the document. KITV4.

For the third straight year, Hawaii County is facing one of the most difficult budgeting processes in the local government's history, Mayor Billy Kenoi told West Hawaii residents Thursday night. West Hawaii Today.

About 70 current and former boat owners expressed anger and frustration yesterday with their inability to get help for their losses in last month's tsunami. Star-Advertiser.

Two women were rescued from a remote Hawaiian beach after a tour helicopter spotted "S.O.S." written in the sand. Associated Press.

It will take years, but Hawaii ultimately will bear a heavy burden from floating debris from the March 11 tsunami in Japan, Hawaii researchers conclude. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island sending love to Japan. Tribune-Herald.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will sail through the Hawaiian Islands, with a 15-night cruise departing the Port of Los Angeles on April 29, 2012. KHON2.

The state Department of Health is investigating two suspected East Maui cases of dengue fever, a potentially deadly tropical disease. Maui News.

A California company planning to build and operate a wind farm on Maui's Ulupalakua Ranch has agreed to sell electricity to Maui's power company. Associated Press.

More Hawaii hotel rooms full, appointed education board passed, Big Island bag ban bogs down, land chief confirmed, budget bills nixed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Volunteers counting humpback whales last month saw an average of five every 15 minutes from sites on Oahu and Kauai. Those on the Big Island saw an average of four. Associated Press.

More than 800 volunteers gathered data from the shores of Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island for Saturday’s annual Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Ocean Count. Hawaii 24/7

William Aila Jr. was confirmed unanimously yesterday by the state Senate as director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, a vote of confidence in the former Waianae harbormaster's ability to manage a sprawling department that has struggled to protect the state's unique environment. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental groups are celebrating the confirmation of William Aila Jr. as the new Director of the Department of Land and Natural Resources. Hawaii News Now.

The state House Finance Committee has moved nearly two dozen bills that would generate revenue or reduce benefit costs, an alternative blueprint to Gov. Neil Abercrombie's plan to help balance the state budget. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii lawmakers near the half-way point of the legislative session, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's major revenue-generating proposals have mostly flopped.Civil Beat.

Hawaii moved a step closer to taxing certain pension payments and eliminating deductions for state taxes Thursday, after first turning down a Republican-led effort to table the measure. Hawaii Reporter.

After the Senate unanimously approved a measure yesterday giving him the power to directly appoint Board of Education members, Gov. Neil Abercrombie called for people who can "help bring change" to public schools to apply. Star-Advertiser.

After Hawaii voters approved the change to the constitution, the BOE could be fully replaced as soon as the middle of this month as a bill to establish an appointed school board heads for the governor's signature. KHON2.

The state transportation department has begun a big beautification and resurfacing project that will improve Ala Moana Boulevard and Nimitz Highway from Waikiki to Fort Street in downtown Honolulu. KITV4.

U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka say Hawaii is due to receive a $250,000 grant to help local businesses cater to the 20,000 visitors expected to come to Honolulu for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Police Commission is finalizing its review of Louis Kealoha's first year as chief of police, after a closed-door discussion with him Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County Council bogged down on its bag ban bill Wednesday, after a minority-led move to schedule six public hearings effectively pushed a decision back until late November. West Hawaii Today.

Aina Koa Pono, the company planning on building a biofuel plant in Ka'u, is promising well-paying jobs, a more stable fuel supply and minimal environmental impacts once the project is completed. West Hawaii Today.

More and more homeless people are setting up tents on the sidewalks and in the park around the UH medical school in Kakaako. KITV4.

The Veterans Administration estimates there are more than 100-thousand former service members who are homeless on any given night in America. Hawaii Public Radio.

Developers would have to offer affordable homes to buyers and renters with varying incomes under a bill the County Council advanced by a unanimous vote Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

North Shore’s shave ice attractions have taken center stage in plans to redevelop the historically popular area. Hawaii Independent.

More than eight out of every 10 Hawaii hotel rooms were full during the week ending Feb. 26, and average room rates across the state were notably higher than during the same week in 2010, according to data compiled by Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

Nominees for the 2011 Charter Commission were grilled about their opinions on district voting and other issues Wednesday, but a vote to approve them was postponed. Maui News.

Kaua‘i’s keiki are now able to enjoy new playground equipment at Puhi and ‘Oma‘o county parks, a county press release announced Wednesday. Garden Island.

Creighton and Cathy Mattoon thought they were helping the City develop a plan for the North Shore.

Hawaii hospitals get federal funds, internment camps, race at issue, Maui mayor seeks end to furloughs, UH-Hilo gets new pharmacy programs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2010 tsunami in Hilo

One Year Later: New improvements since the tsunami. KHON2.

The Hawaii Department of Human Services has distributed $10 million in federal funds to 15 private hospitals.Pacific Business News

Hilo Medical Center staffers put their job satisfaction and engagement at the very bottom when compared to other hospitals, according to a recent survey.Tribune-Herald.

Senator Dan Inouye believes partisan fighting in Washington will NOT derail Oahu’s rail project. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state of Hawaii should maybe take a look into its own unclaimed property program for lost cash as it scratches for more funding. Hawaii Reporter.

A pair of proposals now before the state Legislature could make Hawaii's food code compatible with this traditional Hawaiian food preparation practice. Star-Advertiser.

The number of Hawaii public school children eligible for free and reduced-cost lunch, a key indicator of poverty, has risen 20 percent -- or by more than 13,500 children -- since 2007. Star-Advertiser.

Demonstrators at the state capital voiced their concerns Saturday hoping lawmakers on Capital Hill hear their message. KITV4.

On Friday, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced the appointment of Deputy Director for the Department of Public Safety and Deputy Director of Behavioral Health for Department of Health. Hawaii Independent.

As the governor learned earlier this month, it isn’t as easy as it seems trying to rein in the cost of government —  especially when it comes to public employee retirement benefits.Garden Island.

Mayor Alan Arakawa has requested $1 million to end county furlough days starting in April. Maui News.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's strategy for closing a $40-million-plus budget gap remains a mystery to County Council members bracing for possible tax increases, service cuts and worker layoffs. Tribune-Herald.

For years they have been a hidden part of Hawaii's history. But now, there are efforts underway to preserve World War II era internment camps in the islands. All Hawaii News.

Race in Hawaii: Betcha Can't Pick Just One. Civil Beat.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources has approved a plan to build a large new telescope at the summit of Mauna Kea. Associated Press.

Some nominees to the county's Redistricting Commission apparently were approached by administrative officials and hadn't necessarily thought to apply for the position on their own. West Hawaii Today.

A new phase of repairs to the Diamond Head landmark is beginning, including fixes to a lookout area, a narrow ledge at the summit and construction of a new summit loop trail. Star-Advertiser.

Even as the cost of fueling up on Maui topped $4 per gallon for regular unleaded gas last week on Maui, Aloha Petroleum is developing a new gas station and a 2,000-square-foot convenience store next to Home Depot in Kahului. Maui News.

Nancy McPherson, the recently reinstalled Molokai planner, has returned to ensure projects are done correctly to Molokai standards – and efficiently. Molokai Dispatch.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents has approved two new pharmacy degrees. Associated Press.

Officials with the Hawaii County Council are set to begin the process of determining how to divide $1.5 million among dozens of nonprofit groups asking for more than double that amount. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie talks tax hikes, spending cuts in first state of the state address, Innocence Project works on Maui, civil union bill in the works, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, warning that the state is at risk of an economic collapse, called yesterday for spending cuts on public workers, welfare and health care for the poor and new taxes on pensions, alcohol, soda and time shares to balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

"The truth is that our canoe, which is our beloved Hawaii, could capsize," Gov. Neil Abercrombie said in his inaugural State of the State address. Hawaii News Now.

Raise taxes and cut spending -- Governor Neil Abercrombie announced his ideas for tackling a massive budget deficit in his first state of the state speech. KHON2.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie proposed in his first State of the State address Monday a soda tax and cuts in public benefits to help a state government on "life support" for an "under-resourced and often dysfunctional democracy." Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie called for the creation of a tax for sodas and other drinks with sugar in them and he wants to hike taxes on alcohol for the first time in 12 years. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday dribbled out a few components of his economic plan during his first state of the state address, ending his 46-minute speech to a standing ovation and a lot of questions about how it's going to work. West Hawaii Today.

The governor campaigned with the promise of not raising taxes. In his State of the State address Monday, he called for raising five taxes or fees. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, facing a $771.9 million budget gap in the next two fiscal years, is proposing a number of politically tough measures that will hit state workers, big soda drinkers and needy families as he looks to solve Hawaii’s fiscal problems. Hawaii Reporter.

In his first State of the State address Monday, Gov. Neil Abercrombie laid out a dire budget scenario and the potentially painful steps to recovery, including tax increases and benefit reductions. KITV4.

Governor Neil Abercrombie delivered his first State of the State address today before a joint Legislative session. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie is proposing a soda tax and cutbacks in public benefits to help the state recover from what he describes as a government on "life support" for an "under resourced and often dysfunctional democracy." Associated Press.

Full text of Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s first State of the State address on Monday. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has always been one to speak his mind. In his long political career, he has never held back, even if his fiery words landed him in trouble. Pacific Business News

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, faced with an $800 million state budget deficit, on Monday opened the door to using tourism revenues as one path to closing that yawning gap. Associated Press.

Hospitality industry executives said Hawaii's economic recovery could backslide if the state raises taxes on tourists or diverts tourism marketing dollars to other programs as Gov. Neil Abercrombie proposed in his State of the State address. Star-Advertiser.

A group advocating for better accounting disclosures says Hawaii isn’t meeting its balanced budget requirement because it hasn’t funded $12.8 billion of pension and healthcare benefits owed to state workers as they retire. Hawaii Reporter.

A Senate bill that would allow the governor to appoint new Board of Education members without candidates first being vetted by an advisory council moved forward yesterday, with support from the unions that represent teachers and principals.Star-Advertiser.

In his state of the state address, Governor Neil Abercrombie outlined education as his top priority and appealed to lawmakers to give him the authority to appoint a school board. Hawaii News Now.

Senators in the Education Committee met Monday to take the first vote on the measure to allow Governor Neil Abercrombie to appoint school board members. KITV4.

Not specifically mentioned in Governor Abercrombie’s State of the State address -- civil unions, granting marriage rights to same-sex partners. KHON2.

Less than three months after voters backed most candidates that support civil unions, lawmakers tomorrow begin the process of vetting another bill, with expectations high among those who hope to have the bill passed. Star-Advertiser.

With passionate supporters and opponents of the proposed civil union measure expected to show up in force Tuesday at the Hawaii State Capitol for the 9 a.m. hearing of SB232, Sen. Clayton Hee, D-Kahaluu, is preparing for the worst. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii State Senate’s Committee on Judiciary and Labor will hear Senate Bill 232, relating to civil unions, this Tuesday. Hawaii Independent.

Sunshine Market vendors frustrated with plastic bag ban. Garden Island.

Hawaii's unemployment rate is remaining at 6.4 percent for the sixth straight month, according to the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. KITV4.

A planned $59 million upgrade of Aloha Stadium is being put on hold while the state restudies the future of the aging facility. Star-Advertiser.

Stricter rules for medical waste disposal is the way to keep syringes and vials out of coastal waters, Leeward Oahu residents who attended a hearing about the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill debris spill said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County can't borrow its way out of debt, which is why local government should shrink, cut labor costs and end its "culture of entitlement," County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong said Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

A Maui man imprisoned for a vicious attack is getting a new trial thanks to new DNA testing. Hawaii News Now.

When Alvin Jardine III's convictions were vacated and he was released on bail last week in a 20-year-old rape case, it was the first victory of its kind for the Hawaii Innocence Project. Maui News.

Traveling more than 200 miles above the Earth and going 17,500 miles an hour, NASA astronaut Daniel Tani never tired of watching the Earth go by in the window of the International Space Station. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. was in Washington, D.C., last week attending the 79th Winter Meeting of The U.S. Conference of Mayors, a news release states. Garden Island.

Tutu and Me may be a traveling preschool program, but it just found a second location to call home on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Interview: Former Congressman Charles Djou. Hawaii News Now.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vandals cost taxpayers $10,000. Garden Island.

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

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

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

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

Hawaii 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.