Federal judge to rule on Maui GMO by month's end, Syngenta gives up 500 Kauai acres, state income tax refunds delayed, Honolulu committee passes more homeless bills, Hawaii Obamacare lays off staff, tax breaks to remove cesspools, Kona residents decry hospital cutbacks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Federal courthouse in Honolulu

A federal judge expects to decide by the end of the month whether Maui County's ordinance banning genetically modified crops is trumped by state and federal laws. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge said Monday that the key question before her in lawsuits related to a Maui County ban on the cultivation of genetically modified crops is whether federal and state law trump county law. U.S. District Court Chief Judge Susan Oki Mollway said she aims to rule on the issue by the end of the month. Associated Press.

Maui County residents who have been waiting for a moratorium on genetically engineered farming to go into effect may finally have an answer by the end of this month. Civil Beat.

The state's stepped-up efforts against tax cheats has resulted in delays of up to four months to issue legitimate refund checks this year, while also catching 8,585 suspicious tax returns. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Board of Education is expected to take action on two big — and possibly contentious — policies Tuesday. Proposed changes to the BOE’s sex education policy would make it mandatory for public schools to offer comprehensive and medically accurate sexual health education in certain grades. Civil Beat.

Twenty-nine temporary staff for the Hawaii Health Connector have received lay-off notices as the exchange winds down operations to move enrollment processes from the state-run online health insurance exchange to the federal government's online platform. Pacific Business News.

The Hawaii Health Connector began layoffs last week in preparation for closing operations by this time next year. Tribune-Herald.

In their battle to reduce the threat of cesspools contaminating groundwater and streams or leaking into the ocean, state officials have added a carrot and dispensed with the stick. West Hawaii Today.

CVS Pharmacy will take over all pharmacy operations in six Target stores statewide as a part of an estimated $1.9 billion deal made public on Monday. Pacific Business News.

First Hawaiian Bank has been named one of the top 200 healthiest banks in America and Hawaiian Tel Federal Credit Union and Hawaii USA Federal Credit Union made the top 200 healthiest credit unions in America list, according to DepositAccounts.com. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Four new measures aimed at making it harder for the homeless to sit or lie down on Oahu sidewalks moved out of a key Honolulu City Council committee Monday even as a new University of Hawaii study was released suggesting that such legislation has not encouraged people to move into emergency shelters. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Zoning and Planning Committee advanced four measures to expand the Sit and Lie ordinance to other areas in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

A new study shows the city policy of “compassionate disruption” and its accompanying sit-lie laws cause significant property and economic loss, physical and psychological harm and very likely violate certain constitutional rights. Hawaii Independent.

The city's plan to tear down the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium is being pushed back more than a year. Star-Advertiser.

Northwest Energy Innovations has deployed its wave energy device in waters off Marine Corps Base Hawaii in Windward Oahu, beginning a year-long test to commercialize this type of technology, the company said. Pacific Business News.

A long-stalled bill that would allow Oahu revelers to once again set off sparklers and fountains on New Year's Eve and Independence Day is back in play. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The leadership at Kona Community Hospital heard from West Hawaii residents Monday night on why the state’s hospital safety net system shouldn’t balance its budget on the backs of Hawaii Island’s underserved population. West Hawaii Today.

More than two years after state lawmakers set aside $2 million to install a traffic light near a charter school in Pahoa, residents say children are still facing unsafe road conditions because of an ongoing disagreement over whether the state should actually pay for the improvements. Civil Beat.

After six years of rising participation in the federal Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, Hawaii County’s numbers are beginning to drop off. But state officials attribute the cause to changing federal regulations rather than decrease in need. Tribune-Herald.

The Office of Mauna Kea Management will host public open houses in Kona, Hilo and Waimea to gather community input on suggested administrative rules for the University of Hawaii’s managed lands on Mauna Kea. West Hawaii Today.

Lineal descendants of the region that now includes the 1,550-acre Hokulia development congregated near the gate to the luxury project on Monday, claiming the developers have failed to honor court orders for treatment of burial sites. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A free workshop on state enterprise zones, aimed at economic revitalization of designated areas, will be held from 10:30 a.m. to noon June 30 at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center Haynes Meeting Room. Maui News.

Kauai

Global seed giant Syngenta has relinquished more than 500 acres of land on the foothills above Waimea, reducing its footprint on the island by about 15 percent. The mauka lands were returned in April to the Agribusiness Development Corporation, reducing Syngenta’s monthly rent by about $4,800. Garden Island.

About 22.5 percent of Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s net electricity sales during the 2014 calendar year were supplied by renewable energy resources and energy savings, according to a report supplied to Hawaii regulators. Pacific Business News.

Molokai

The Molokai Drive Inn will close its doors for good on Wednesday "due to the expiration of its lease and an unresolved dispute with its landlord," according to a post on the eatery's Facebook page last week. Maui News.

Honolulu airport third-worst, Say residency unresolved, Kona woman fights for judgeship, sewer spill on Sand Island, Kauai councilwoman wants GET tax for buses, hearing to be held on Ebola, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu International Airport, courtesy Hawaii state government

Hawaii's main airport is the third-worst in North America in a recent survey of travelers. Honolulu International is not as bad as top-ranked LaGuardia International Airport in New York, or second-ranked Los Angeles International Airport, according to users of online travel site www.sleepinginairports.net. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii politics is in transition in the wake of the death of U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye and the retirement of U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka. The churn at the top has caused political uncertainty that might take several election cycles to settle. Here's a rundown of potentially competitive state House and Senate campaigns, which is based on information provided from political analysts, party strategists, campaign consultants and lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

After nearly three decades in Hawaii politics, in a career that has seen roughly as many dramatic wins as huge losses, Mufi Hannemann has not lost his self-confidence. Civil Beat.

State House Speaker Joseph Souki said the House will not take up a challenge to former Speaker Calvin Say's residency before the November elections. Six Palolo voters have questioned whether Say lives in the Palolo state House district he has represented since 1976 or whether he actually lives with his family in Pauoa Valley. The voters lost a legal challenge in Circuit Court but plan to appeal. Star-Advertiser.

The speaker of the Hawaii House of Representatives says the chamber will not immediately consider a request to investigate Rep. Calvin Say’s residency qualifications. In a letter dated Oct. 17 to Lance Collins, the attorney for six Palolo residents who argue that Say no longer lives in District 20 and so should not represent them, Speaker Joe Souki said it would be “inappropriate” to address the “numerous assertions” made in Collins’ letter. Civil Beat.

Hawaii House Speaker Joseph Souki says the Legislature will not immediately resolve claims about the residency of Rep. Calvin Say. Say had been challenged in court by six Palolo voters who claim his main residence is outside the district. Say has represented the Palolo district for more than three decades. Associated Press.

As hospitals across the country prepare for a potential Ebola case, Hawaii officials are working on new guidelines to keep the state safe from the deadly virus. The director of Hawaii's Department of Health will also outline the state's strategy at a hearing this week at the state Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Local officials are ramping up efforts to keep people in Hawaii safe from the Ebola virus. A new treatment protocol to deal with Ebola in Hawaii may be released later this week at a hearing at the State Capitol. KHON2.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit has vacated a federal district court’s judgment in Jackson v. Abercrombie. The lawsuit challenged Hawaii’s 1998 ballot decision to give the Hawaii Legislature the authority to restrict marriage to one man and own woman. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s highly celebrated technology and cybersecurity czar started a new job Monday as the U.S. Treasury Department’s deputy assistant secretary and chief information officer. Sanjeev “Sonny” Bhagowalia spent the past three years helping the state develop and implement a 12-year plan to pull itself out of the dark ages and into the information age. Civil Beat.

Oahu

More than 100 workers and a dozen private contractors are scrambling to repair the critical Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant that was flooded by Hurricane Ana, which left behind 20 million gallons of untreated sludge that overwhelmed the plant Sunday morning and left it without power. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Rep. Karen Awana sharply criticized a plan Monday that calls for using a rural property on the Waianae Coast as a place to store and dispose of a large cache of illegal fireworks. The commercial-grade fireworks are the remnants of a stash that was involved in the 2011 explosion at a Waikele storage bunker that killed five people. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii will be examining dumped chemical weapons in deep water off the south coast of Oahu for the last time to see what effects they have on seawater, marine life and sediment. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell plans to hold three public town hall-style meetings this week to address the affordable housing crisis on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

The videotape beating of a bystander by a Honolulu police officer has prompted a crackdown on bad behavior within the HPD's elite crime reduction units. Hawaii News Now.

Opinion: Why It’s So Difficult to Prosecute Domestic Abuse in Hawaii. Honolulu's prosecutor weighs in on domestic violence and actions that he's hoping will help ease the situation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

An army of public officials rushed to the defense of Margaret Masunaga, a Hawaii County deputy corporation counsel, after the Hawaii State Bar Association deemed her unqualified to be a district judge. West Hawaii Today.

A plan to open a recycling redemption center in the Seaview Center subdivision has some neighbors concerned. West Hawaii Today.

The leading edge of the June 27 lava flow remained at a standstill Monday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is providing early walk-in voting in Puna in case the June 27 lava flow interferes with Election Day. Tribune-Herald.

A University of Hawaii professor submitted a stinging critique of the planned expansion of a West Hawaii fish farm. The final environmental assessment, which included Frazer’s comments, was released several days ago. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Island of Maui was dethroned from its top spot as the best island in the world after earning the accolade for 20 consecutive years between and 1993 and 2013 in the annual ranking conducted by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. Maui Now.

Some Maui residents are not happy about the Health Department's new rules on cesspools. They claim the rules do not consider the interests of rural communities on the Neighbor Islands, where the vast majority of cesspools in the state are located. Hawaii Public Radio.

About 1,100 free-roaming and feral cats loiter around Kanaha Beach Park and surrounding areas in Kahului, according to a December survey, and researchers say "serious management attention" should be paid to control the cat population in that region. Maui News.

Researchers are concerned about the number of cats near a Maui wildlife sanctuary that's home to endangered birds. A survey in an area that includes Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary found more than 1,000 free-roaming and feral cats. Associated Press.

Kauai

Kauai County Councilwoman JoAnn Yukimura says more must be done to ensure that the county’s public transportation system remains viable and becomes a key part in alleviating traffic congestion throughout the island. A proposal that Yukimura is slated to introduce during Wednesday’s County Council meeting could allow for one of those funding sources to be a county surcharge tacked on to the state’s 4 percent general excise tax, which is levied on business activities in Hawaii and is reflected on many consumer purchases, including food and groceries. Garden Island.

The state Department of Health is requesting access to Grove Farm Company property in Mahaulepu in an effort to pinpoint how large amounts of bacteria are ending up Waiopili Stream. Garden Island.

The state Intermediate Court of Appeals dealt a setback to the owner of a former North Shore commercial boatyard owner in his attempts to prove the County of Kauai had revoked his operation permit for a false purpose. Garden Island.

Friends of Mahaulepu will host a public meeting Thursday to discuss legal remedies concerning Hawaii Dairy Farms’ proposed $17.5 million, 578-acre dairy in Mahaulepu Valley. Garden Island.

Kahoolawe
Promised Land: ‘Where Beauty is Alongside the Ugliness’ SECOND OF THREE PARTS: As they sweat through the monumental task of restoring an island decimated by ranching, goats and bombs, workers' efforts are infused with respect for its history and significance to Native Hawaiians. But at least one activist questions whether it's worth all the effort. Civil Beat.

Gov. Abercrombie too dizzy to greet Obama, blocks of Waikiki set for demolition, Hawaii pension plan overtaxed by OT, Hawaii County councilman leaves hospital, Paul Mitchell heir donates Kona waterfront, case dismissed against Kauai council, state to fence thousands of acres on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Humpback whale NOAA courtesy photo

Humpback whale aficionados have an opportunity to help scientists keep tabs on a growing population in the nation's primary mating and calving grounds. West Hawaii Today.

President Barack Obama and his family spent a warm and sunny Tuesday afternoon at one of the most popular snorkeling spots on Oahu, where they released four green sea turtles into the water. Associated Press.

Some Americans are bothered by President Barack Obama's decision to take a million-dollar vacation to Hawaii during these tough economic times. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie suffered from dizziness on Friday, preventing him from greeting President Barack Obama when he arrived in Honolulu. KITV4.

Abercrombie's First Year, According To Abercrombie. Civil Beat.

Some 100 Hawaii clergy and other potential officiants have learned how to obtain online licenses to perform civil unions beginning just after midnight Sunday, offering a hint of the potential scope of civil unions in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Shortly after the stroke of midnight on New Year's Day, Gary Bradley and Paul Perry will be among the first couples in the state to enter into civil unions as soon as a Hawaii law goes into effect. Tribune-Herald.

Trustees of Hawaii's public pension system are finalizing proposed legislation aimed at preventing employees from "spiking" their pay to dramatically boost retirement benefits. Civil Beat.

Hawai`i’s Filipino Cultural Center is the largest of its kind outside of the Philippines. Filcom is organizing statewide donations through three banks in Hawai`i to help provide disaster relief to typhoon survivors. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Professional and Vocational Licensing Branch will hold extended hours on Dec. 29 and Dec. 30 to accommodate those needing to renew their licenses before the end of the year. KHON2.

State roundup for Dec. 28. Associated Press.

Oahu

The International Market Place, Waikiki Town Center and the Miramar at Waikiki Hotel will be demolished and redeveloped into a new three-level retail, dining and entertainment center beginning in 2013 — a long-awaited project expected to cost up to $300 million and revitalize an aging but iconic six-acre block in Hawaii’s main tourist hub. Pacific Business News.

A highly restrictive fireworks law has put a damper on the first New Year's Eve -- traditionally Hawaii's biggest annual fireworks celebration -- under the new city ordinance, say fireworks shoppers. Star-Advertiser.

The closure of two Oahu hospitals is having a ripple effect on the medical community. KITV4.

City Not Rushing To Implement "Sidewalk Law". KITV4.

Hawaii

A "rare treasure" of Hawaii island property containing spring-fed pools connected to Kiholo Bay in North Kona has been donated to The Nature Conservancy by the son of hairstyling company founder Paul Mitchell. Star-Advertiser.

The heir to a hairstyling and hair-care products dynasty has donated seven acres of land on the North Kona Coast to The Nature Conservancy. Tribune-Herald.

A Hawaii resident best known for manufacturing hair care products has donated seven acres of land on the North Kona Coast to the Nature Conservancy. KHON2.

Hawaii County Council meetings will not be held at the West Hawaii Civic Center until contractors make long-overdue fixes, Council Chairman Dominic Yagong said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

North Kona Councilman Angel Pilago headed home Tuesday, after spending two days hospitalized on Oahu. West Hawaii Today.

The state is considering appealing a Big Island judge’s recent decision to allow a project in South Kohala to move forward. Civil Beat.

Maui
Maui residents are not holding back on spending money on fireworks for New Year's Eve. Maui News.

The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands has awarded more than two dozen homesteads to Native Hawaiian families. Maui News.

A 45-day public comment period has started on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement filed for the proposed Kihei High School in South Maui. Maui Now.

The state is proposing the construction of an enclosure fence around approximately 2,350 acres of native remnant koa forest on the Leeward side of Haleakala. Maui Now.

Kauai

A civil complaint against the Kaua‘i County Council brought by two of its council members was dismissed in 5th Circuit Court on Tuesday. Garden Island.

The last of the “five side-men” is leaving the Kaua‘i Police Commission. Garden Island.

Hawaii inmates released without supervision, tax department not keeping up, four same-sex couples to inaugurate new civil unions law, Maui PD shows off morgue, Kauai mayor to talk story, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu city lights (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

While Honolulu residents may marvel at the brilliant glow of the city's night skyline, it's not a welcome sight for astronomers atop Haleakala. For them, it's light pollution that's interfering with their scientific studies. Civil Beat.

Hawaii inmates considered at high risk for committing new offenses increasingly have been released from prison without any supervision -- a trend that experts say is not only out of sync with national practices, but increases the safety risk to the public. Star-Advertiser.

Antiquated technology at the Hawaii Department of Taxation is hampering efforts to perform effective and timely audits of Hawaii taxpayers. Civil Beat.

Four committed couples from Hawaii will become the first in Hawaii to enter into civil unions on January 1. Hawaii Independent.

Thirty-seven programs that help homeless people in Hawaii have received a total of $10.7 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Star-Advertiser.

Bouncing back from homelessness is a challenge confronted by more than 10-thousand adults in Hawai`i over the past year. Hawai`i’s high cost of housing and the dominance of service industry jobs makes it particularly challenging for many people to rent or own a home they can call their own. Hawaii Public Radio.

The number of Hawaii residents filing for unemployment benefits has fallen sharply since hitting historic highs during the recent recession. Star-Advertiser.

State officials are bracing for a federal review of Hawaii's public school system early next year that could determine whether the state continues to receive millions in competitive education grants. Associated Press.

State roundup for Dec. 27. Associated Press.

Oahu

President Barack Obama had an active Monday, starting with a morning workout and a late-morning hike with his family in Lanikai, followed by a golf outing with friends in the afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

City May Need $1 Million From State For Extra Ambulances. KITV4.

Fireworks ban dampens New Year plans for some. KHON2.

A vocal proponent of the Honolulu rail project has asked the IRS to look into alleged tax violations by a nonprofit suing to stop the train. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa is asking a national education research group to pay about $28,800 for UH to fulfill an open-records request from the group, which is compiling a controversial ranking of teacher preparation programs. Star-Advertiser.

An area that's been a magnet for illegal dumping continues to attract everything but the kitchen sink. KHON2.

Hawaii

New Year's celebrations and fireworks have been synonymous on Hawaii Island. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The temperature in the walk-in refrigerator at the Maui Police Department's new morgue and forensic facility is maintained between 36 and 38 degrees. Inside, there are racks of steel slabs. Maui News.

The nuns who have been researching the life of Mother Marianne Cope have discovered a woman who was a tough, capable, caring administrator. Maui News.

In an effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year’s celebration, officials with the Maui Fire Department are urging the public to take proper precautions. Maui Now.

Kauai

Robert Kawamura, a junior at Kaua‘i High School, said he’s been pounding mochi for a long time, Monday in Wailua. Garden Island.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. will meet with community members in Hanapepe, Kapa‘a, Kekaha and Koloa in January as part of his pledge to meet with communities throughout the island annually. Garden Island.

Molokai

The studio structure is being constructed by Molokai Habitat for Humanity (MHFH) through a Habitat for Humanity International and Lowe’s Home Improvement program called Hammers for Heroes, which funds home improvements for veterans. Molokai Dispatch.

Molokai tour boat truce reached, Hawaii teachers take second jobs, Big Island rents drop, $10.7M for homeless, Honolulu scrambles after hospital shutdown, UH picks Norm Chow as new football coach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Molokai blockade courtesy photo

Molokai protesters and the operator of American Safari Cruises have agreed to a truce that will allow the tour boat company to resume its weekly visits to Molokai next month. Star-Advertiser.

American Safari Cruises announced Tuesday that an agreement has been reached between the company, state and federal authorities and local groups so that the Safari Explorer will return to Molokai in January. Star-Advertiser.

American Safari Cruises plans to resume regularly scheduled visits to Molokai on January 21, 2011. Maui Now.

U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan Tuesday awarded $10.7 million to renew funding to Hawaii homeless programs. KHON2.

Two-thirds of Hawaii public school teachers who responded to a recent union poll said they hold one or more outside jobs, and 41 percent of those earning supplemental incomes said they started working another job in the last one to three years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii legislators are planning a complete overhaul of the state’s charter school system in the wake of “glaring concerns” about lack of accountability and even possible fraud at some schools. Hawaii Reporter.

Inouye Still Brings Home The Bacon. Half a billion dollars going to military, APEC costs, East-West Center. Civil Beat.

Norm Chow is poised to become the next University of Hawaii head football coach -- 16 years, two Heisman Trophy winners and two national titles after losing his first bid for the position. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s version of the Supplemental Budget for Fiscal Year 2013, submitted yesterday, requires an additional $35 million in general funds—overall changes included an increase of $119.9 million in spending in some areas and $85.9 million in savings in others. Hawaii Independent.

The Keck Observatory was involved in what its director called a historic moment recently, helping confirm the discovery of two Earth-sized planets.  West Hawaii Today.

State roundup for Dec. 21. Associated Press.

Oahu

Police-Business Deal Raises Ethical Questions. Civil Beat.

About 1200 people are waiting for the outcome of a lawsuit determining their future living conditions. Mayor Wright Homes is the second complex to draw attention to public housing standards in the past several years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Medical Centers, which is closing the former St. Francis Medical Centers in Liliha and Ewa over the next few weeks, operates the only organ transplant center in the Pacific. The Transplant Institute of the Pacific shut down on Friday when HMC's Liliha hospital stopped admitting patients. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations will provide Rapid Response services to employees at both Hawaii Medical Center worksites in Liliha and Ewa after the company announced last Friday it is closing. KITV4.

After the sudden closure of Hawaii’s only organ transplant hospital at Hawaii Medical Center East in Liliha, The Queen’s Medical Center is racing against the clock to quickly certify a new program. KHON2.

A non-profit that describes itself as the world's largest religious civil liberties legal organization is getting involved in a discrimination lawsuit filed on Oahu Monday by a lesbian couple. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mortgage brokers Welton Kalani and Stephen Balino have been found guilty on numerous counts of mortgage fraud and money laundering, the U.S. Department of Justice reported Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The Honolulu Fire Department says Wednesday, December 21 is the last day to get firecracker permits on Oahu. KITV4.

Hawaii

A newly released study shows that monthly residential rents are decreasing on the Big Island, while the rest of the state is posting increases. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island residents are in for a sight when several massive storage tanks for the new Big Island Biodiesel refinery are transported from Hilo to Keeau on Wednesday. KHON2.

Kona Community Hospital is actively recruiting a cardiologist, CEO Jay Kreuzer said this week. West Hawaii Today.

Residents in four Big Island communities may soon have access to computers and printers at County Council offices, thanks to a resolution forwarded Tuesday by the council's Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island County Council to Vote on Plastic Bag Ban, Civil Beat.

Maui

About 40 nisei veterans traveled to Oahu this past weekend to take part in ceremonies honoring them for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal for their service during World War II with the 100th Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team and the Military Intelligence Services. Maui News.

Kauai

Kadomatsu, one of the more familiar New Year’s decorations, are now on sale at the Hawai‘i Government Employees Association offices on Aikahi Street in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

The holiday spirit caught up with the staff at the Courtyard by Marriott at Coconut Beach Thursday night. Garden Island.

Oahu gas tax hike debated, state taxes still alive in Legislature, Maui dengue cases increase, Honolulu fireworks ban could affect neighbor island supply, bill could revive Ka'u biomass plant, more

Hawaii Capitol

The largest remaining tax measures pending before Hawaii lawmakers would eliminate business exemptions, raise car rental fees and take hotel tax money from the counties. Associated Press.

There are more than two-dozen tax bills still alive at the Hawaii State Capitol. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie made a final push to keep legislation alive that would fund programs and policies that support his fiscal plan. KITV4.

The state collected more than $190 million in general excise taxes in February, but overall, general fund deposits are down. KHON2.

Hawaii general fund deposits for February were down 4 percent compared to the same month in 2010, according to a report from the Hawaii Department of Taxation. Pacific Business News

It's been relatively calm on Hawaii's home foreclosure front during the past several months, but the storm could soon return. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing on proposed fees and fee increases for city facilities and services drew only a handful of interested citizens Wednesday at Honolulu Hale.KITV4.

A proposal to increase the city’s gasoline tax by 1 cent per gallon has advanced in the City Council, but appears unlikely to go much further. Star-Advertiser.

Politicians are getting feisty over rail transit money and some are turning on each other as there are accusations of greed and skimming off the top. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Managing Director Doug Chin said Oahu residents can expect to see "a lot more road work" between now and the end of the fiscal year on June 30. Civil Beat.

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.

The intent of a draft commercial air tour management plan for Haleakala National Park got a thumbs up Tuesday evening as those attending a public meeting agreed that regulations should be in place to limit or prevent impacts to the park, its visitors and resources. Maui News.

Hawaii taxpayers are covering a quarter of the cost of a new solar parking canopy project for Oceanic Time Warner Cable. KITV4.

New bill could breathe new life into Pahala biofuel project. Big Island Weekly.

Kaua‘i Fire Chief Robert Westerman on Monday told County Council members that despite financial and operational challenges the department has achieved improvements and will implement initiatives for Fiscal Year 2012, which starts July 1. Garden Island.

The county Office of the County Auditor is requesting a 34 percent budget increase for next fiscal year, which starts July 1. Garden Island.

The underground storage facility in Waikele where five Donaldson Enterprises employees were killed during a violent explosion Friday morning was being used by the company to prepare highly explosive fireworks for final disposal, an investigator from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu is the only county with a fireworks ban, but the neighbor islands may soon find it very difficult to purchase most consumer fireworks.KHON2.

Over a month after more than 150 dogs were seized in a puppy farm raid in Waimanalo, the Hawaiian Humane Society still has custody of them. Hawaii News Now.

Picture the Hawaii Island Humane Society's Kona Shelter. West Hawaii Today.

Something is out of place at many of Molokai’s fishponds – many of their rocks. Molokai Dispatch.

The engineering firm that designed a $1.9 million water tank officials say is defective has been considered for 18 additional county contracts but was awarded only one since the county filed a lawsuit against it. West Hawaii Today.

What is our capacity to endure? That’s the question that living sustainably asks of us. Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii justice delayed by budget cuts, Hannemann to take hotel post, judge rules for migrant health care, student measures Kilauea's depths, UH video goes viral, fireworks ban in the works, state GOP in turmoil, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald is calling for adequate funding for the state Judiciary, which has been hit by furloughs and budget cuts that he says have reduced, delayed and eliminated important judicial services. Star-Advertiser.

A new report from the State Judiciary says court cases that once took weeks are now taking months, and some people who qualify for drug treatment have no choice but to wait behind bars -- all because of budget cuts. Hawaii News Now.

Sources tell Hawaii News Now the former Honolulu mayor will soon take the top job at the Hawaii Hotel and Lodging Association.Hawaii News Now.

Weeks after a lackluster performance in the November election, the Hawaii Republican Party is undergoing turmoil over its finances and whether it should sell its Honolulu headquarters. Associated Press.

The state's two largest freight shipping companies were grilled Monday as the state looked at ways to stop illegal aerial fireworks from entering the islands. KITV4.

In less than a month, consumer fireworks will be illegal on Oahu and law enforcement officials fear this New Year's Eve will be the worse when it comes to illegal imports. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie selected Pat McManaman to be appointed as the director of the Department of Human Services (DHS) last week.Hawaii Independent.

A college student who pinpointed the depth of Kilauea Volcano's magma chamber says the finding could lead to better predictions of eruptions. Star-Advertiser.

Grace Pacific Corp., the largest roadway paving contractor in Hawaii, has bought the owner of the 76 gas station brand in Hawaii in an all-stock transaction that will create one of the 10 largest locally owned for-profit companies in the state.Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge is ordering Hawaii's government to restore health benefits to low-income legal migrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau. KITV4.

A federal judge has determined that Compact of Free Association migrants in Hawaii must receive full medical benefits Dec. 15. The ruling could cost the state upwards of $15 million a year. Civil Beat.

Tripler Army Medical Center is a place of healing but at least six employees contacted a civil rights lawyer alleging hateful and racial comments. Hawaii News Now.

Abercrombie celebrates in Ka'u. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Robert Faris approved a request yesterday to convert the Honolulu Symphony's bankruptcy case from Chapter 11 reorganization to Chapter 7 liquidation, effectively silencing the 110-year-old orchestra. Star-Advertiser.

Closing Queen Liliuokalani Elementary is no way to celebrate the school's 100th anniversary next year, said parents, teachers and others who turned out for a hearing on a consolidation proposal last night.Star-Advertiser.

The turnover in resort real estate is expected to top $1 billion this year, marking a turnaround after a five-year slide. Maui News.

On Jan. 16, Castle & Cooke Homes will auction off its remaining inventory of resort real estate at Manele and Koele on Lanai. Maui News.

Dr. Monty Downs got help from the Rotary Club of Hanalei Bay and the Rotary Club of Po‘ipu Beach in installing a milestone-marking rescue tube Monday at Kealia Beach. Garden Island.

Kaunakakai wharf construction was given the green light last week, with new features such as an enhanced waiting room, increased bathroom facilities and improved traffic flow. Molokai Dispatch.

A video posted three days ago on Youtube showing the UH marching band has gone viral. KHON2.

A new oasis awaits for the thirsty, stressed and festive amid the touristy sprawl on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

HIV increasing in state, Lingle paves way for fireworks bans, Abercrombie fined for late campaign spending report, EIS opens door to scale insect release, more state news

More and more young people in Hawaii are testing positive for the HIV virus, according to the Life Foundation, the state’s largest anti-AIDS organization. KITV

Governor Lingle has signed a bill into law that allows the counties to enact their own laws regarding fireworks, as long as they're tougher than the state law. KHON2.

You'll have less time this year to get a fireworks permit before July Fourth. Not only does the holiday fall on a Sunday, but City and County offices will be closed on July 2 for furlough Friday. so the deadline is Thursday, July 1.. Hawaii News Now.

State lawmakers said Tuesday they are seriously considering a veto override if Gov. Linda Lingle (R) vetoes a bill calling for a cost-benefit audit of a privately run Arizona prison. KITV

The state is once again seeking approval to release a Brazilian scale insect into Hawaii forests to control the spread of the popular but environmentally needy strawberry guava tree. Star-Advertiser.

High salt levels in a South Kona well system have prompted health advisories from the county Department of Water Supply. West Hawaii Today.

 Neil Aber- crombie's gub- ernatorial campaign was recently fined by the Hawaii Campaign Spending Com- mission over late notice about a mainland fundraiser. KHON2

The June 14 release of the project's Final  Environmental Impact Statement  offers the most up-to-date list of homes and businesses that will have to move to make way for the train. Civil Beat.

The city is spending $400,000 in federal stimulus money on a mural and flowering trellises at two new transit centers. Star-Advertiser.

A Hawaii County Public Works employee is under investigation for allegedly hitting a Kona bicyclist Thursday morning while driving a county vehicle with a suspended license. West Hawaii Today.

New refuse carts are in preparation for Kauai County’s move toward automated refuse collection which is scheduled to start July 1. Garden Island.

University of Hawaii Maui College officials dedicated an array of photovoltaic panels Monday, saying the school is expanding its educational curriculum while installing renewable energy systems to reduce the college's energy costs. Maui News.


Geologists with the Hawaii Volcano Observatory flew over the Big Island's Pu'u O'o Crater Monday, getting good views of a new gas vent on the crater's east wall. KHON2.

A deal between the Kaua‘i County Council and developers of a South Shore project was supposed to offer its workers and the community 75 affordable houses in exchange for an approval to build 1,500 high-end units in Kukui‘ula, plus a golf course and shopping center. Garden Island.

Islanders going to bed late Friday or rising before dawn Saturday might see a partial eclipse of the moon if clouds don't obscure it. Star-Advertiser.

With less than a month left until the election filing deadline, 21 Big Island residents have entered County Council and state Legislature races, while 28 others have shown interest in joining them. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Citing “a desperate need to reduce county regulation that is currently strangling small businesses and holding back literally thousands of jobs,” Paul Laub is running for the West Maui seat on the County Council. Lahaina News.


Although poor first semester grades in Molokai High School’s (MHS) online courses prompted school officials to further examine the e-school program, second semester grades revealed significant improvement among students. Molokai Dispatch.