Civil unions coming to Hawaii, new taxes boost revenue forecast, state tops nation in teen suicide attempts, new BOE flexes muscle, Kauai food bank fight continues, Maui flights boost tourism, Big Island crime patterns change, more news

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) All Hawaii News

The state Department of Health expects to issue the first licenses for civil unions by Dec. 3, with the expressed, written understanding that the authorizations would not take effect until Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The State Council on Revenues raised its projections today for General Fund tax collections this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's economy is expected to grow slowly, despite the overall dreary financial outlook from economists. KITV4.

At a Tuesday meeting Hawaii’s Council on Revenues projected substantial growth to the state's general fund for the next several years, but much of that is due to tax increases passed by state lawmakers, not a strengthening economy. KHON2.

Hawaii high school students had the highest self-reported prevalence of seriously considering suicide, making a plan and attempting suicide in the nation. They also had the third highest rate of being sad or hopeless. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii health officials are sponsoring events statewide to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Week. Associated Press.

The public will have the chance to voice their opinion on the possible closure of several Hawaii post offices starting Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The question of whether the media should be able to live blog from a federal court trial in Hawaii is again up for debate. Civil Beat.

State health officials responded more quickly to the swine flu and SARS viruses because of techniques and equipment developed after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, but modern-day priorities mean they are less focused on monitoring Hawaii’s milk supply and tracking diseases such as tuberculosis. Honolulu Advertiser.

A group of retired military leaders who drew attention last year with its claim that overweight children are a threat to national security, are now targeting Hawaii's obesity rates. Associated Press.

Hawaii's Board of Education members promised culture change during their confirmation hearings earlier this year, and barely more than four months later, it's clear that they're already bringing it. Civil Beat.

Students get reprimanded for turning in an incomplete report and today so did the Department of Education. Hawaii News Now.

Home sales on Hawaii island and Kauai rose or remained unchanged in August compared with a year earlier while prices mostly declined, according to the latest report from Hawaii Information Service. Star-Advertiser.

Against a backdrop of local slowing and deteriorating conditions in the U.S. and global economy, Hawaii will see only modest growth in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Seven species of Native Hawaiian bees will be placed on the endangered species list. KHON2.

Oahu

The city began notifying groups early on this year that permits for events in November could be rejected because of the security surrounding the upcoming economic summit. KITV4.

The Board of Education wants a better study before taking a possible elementary school closure to a public hearing. KHON2.

The state Board of Education wants more information on the impacts of closing Likelike Elementary in Kalihi before the cost-saving proposal is taken to the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island's fastest-growing district has experienced a double-digit drop in crime. Tribune-Herald.

The instances of murder, rape and robbery in West Hawaii increased last year compared to 2009. West Hawaii Today.

Land preservation proponents today will begin the long process of trying to get a 2 percent land fund amendment on the ballot -- again. West Hawaii Today.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources staff is recommending approval of a month's worth of high-altitude helicopter training on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa for Army pilots and crews deploying to Afghanistan in January. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui has been getting a whole bunch of direct nonstop flights that will go a long way toward helping carry the economic momentum the Valley Isle has been seeing for much of the last year. Pacific Business News.

This summer, seven high school students experienced what it is like to be a doctor as they made rounds with physicians at the hospital, witnessed surgeries and even dealt with dying patients. Maui News.

The National Marine Fisheries Service has scheduled hearings this month in Kaunakakai and Kihei to gather public input on a draft programmatic environmental impact statement for its plans to help the recovery of the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Maui News.

Fire officials say arson is the cause of a fire that broke out at the Maui Drug Court Office Tuesday morning. KHON2.

Kauai

In recent weeks, Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank in Lihu‘e has been fending off a flurry of accusations made by an O‘ahu food bank official. A central allegation is that KIFB charges a steep service fee while Hawai‘i Food Bank does not. Garden Island.

County prosecutors are concerned that marijuana legalization advocates may influence state legislative decisions because those advocates are well organized and more active than their opponents. Garden Island.

Hawaii governor proclaims gay pride month, Kauai prepares big gay pride festival, paddle-boarders, swimmers, surfers at odds, electricity hikes could pay for biofuel plan, Big Island bag ban hearings set, monk seal protection sought, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community is applauding the governor for declaring June pride month. Associated Press.

While Kaua‘i is known for its sandy beaches, unparalleled beauty and aloha spirit, members of Parents, Families, & Friends of Lesbians and Gays and Lambda Aloha are creating another reason for people to visit Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii business leaders received a “wake-up call” Thursday from the new director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, who told them they need to help pay for public-private projects to drive the local economy. Star-Advertiser.

Residents on the Big Island are closer to having a portion of their electricity needs supplied from locally produced biofuel now that Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed Senate Bill 1347. Pacific Business News

The explosion of standup paddling in the islands has triggered complaints, first with swimmers, now with surfers. KITV4.

Many of those who frequent the sandbar in the middle of Kaneohe Bay consider it a second home – a place to kick back and relax with family and friends. KHON2.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday proposed expanding federally protected zones — or critical habitat — for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal to include parts of the main Hawaiian Islands.Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle promised to get the city's financial house in order, but the City Council is challenging him on some of his key proposals. Civil Beat.

With approval of a Hawaii County budget now in the bag, County Council members are turning their attention to banning bags. Tribune-Herald.

A new survey says Hawaii residents are adjusting their spending habits because of high gas prices. Hawaii News Now.

our school systems are leaving the boys behind … starting in the earliest grades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Waters of Life Public Charter School on Hawaii island will be released from probation June 15 after spending three years under strict monitoring by the Charter School Review Panel. Star-Advertiser.

After years of community planning and reinvestment, the first changes of many are arriving in Kakaako. Hawaii Independent.

While US real GDP bottomed out in the second quarter of 2009 and is now back at its pre-recession level, non-farm payrolls only started picking up at the beginning of 2010, and they remain far below their previous peak. Hawaii Reporter.

The Waikiki Health Center says it has acquired a clinic that provides prenatal and postpartum medical and social services to women who have or have had addiction issues. Associated Press.

The city is providing new visuals of the design of the rail cars for the mass transit project. KHON2.

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza on Wednesday denied a motion by former Council Member Sol Kaho'ohalahala to dismiss a long-running lawsuit that seeks to invalidate his term in office. Maui News.

A wildlife that burned hundreds of acres of state land on the Kona side of the Big Island is fully contained. Associated Press.

A bill intended to resolve noisy-dog complaints has become Hawaii County law -- quietly. Tribune-Herald.

Not allowing DW Aina Lea to proceed with construction, despite a Land Use Commission ruling against the project, will cause the developer to break promises to the community, lose goodwill it had with its foreign investors and delay the opening of affordable town houses, attorneys argue. West Hawaii Today.

EEOC farmworker lawsuit hits six Hawaii farms, Hawaii County passes $56M bond issue, Gov. Abercrombie, Maui mayor calling for tax hikes, community college chancellor candidates woo Big Island, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Gender equity bill on governor's desk a bookend to civil unions bill earlier in session. Civil Beat.

Federal authorities have filed a civil lawsuit accusing six Hawaii farms of "unlawful employment practices" in association with federally indicted farm labor contractor Global Horizons Manpower Inc. Star-Advertiser.

A federal agency calls it the largest human trafficking lawsuit ever against the agriculture industry. KHON2.

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Files Lawsuit in Thai Human Trafficking Case, but Defendants, Attorneys Question Timing, Motives Hawaii Reporter.

Captain Cook Coffee Co. and MacFarms of Hawaii were two of six Hawaii farms named in a human trafficking lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced Wednesday that it has filed its largest agricultural human trafficking lawsuit against labor contractor Global Horizons and eight farms, including Kaua‘i Coffee Company. Garden Island.

A federal agency has sued a California-based labor contractor and farms in Washington and Hawaii alleging discrimination against more than 200 Thai workers in what it has called its largest human trafficking case in agriculture to date. Associated Press.

House and Senate negotiators meeting in conference committees are agreeing on a few bills that will now get final floor votes. Garden Island.

With the budget year mostly over, Hawaii state tax revenue is up less than inflation, sharpening the state budget crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Golden Week in Hawaii will lose some of its shine this year. Hawaii News Now.

Verbatim: Abercrombie email says moving forward means raising taxes. Hawaii Independent.

Teachers bombarded state Sen. Jill Tokuda's office with hundreds of calls and more than 1,200 emails yesterday, concerned that a law aimed at lengthening public school days would require them to work longer hours without more pay. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii and various Hawaii public schools plan to donate textbooks and bookshelves to public libraries in Micronesia suffering from budget cuts. Associated Press.

The Honolulu City Council held a marathon session day over a combination of spending cuts and hikes in taxes and fees. KHON2.

Mayor Alan Arakawa is calling for a smaller increase in property tax rates than he originally proposed. Maui News.

County Clerk Peter Nakamura’s mayoral re-appointment and subsequent Kaua‘i County Council confirmation in December stirred controversy after two council members questioned a pay raise that pushed his salary slightly past the mayor’s. Garden Island.

Comments among County Council members got a bit heated Wednesday morning, but by lunchtime, the council gave the final approval to a $56 million bond. West Hawaii Today.

The cost to build Honolulu's rail transit system has decreased to $5.3 billion from $5.5 billion, according to the latest draft of the city's financial plan, released yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Complaints that Maui County Council Member Mike White acted improperly when he called for more funding for the Maui Visitors Bureau have been dismissed by the county Board of Ethics. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Wednesday presented Hawaii Green Business Office and Government awards to eight institutions. Pacific Business News

“I felt like I was cleaning the rubbish off the reef,” said Dicky Dowling, who speared 46 roi for first place honors in last weekend’s Molokai Roi Tournament. Molokai Dispatch.

Working together will help move Hawaii Community College into the future, four finalists seeking the college's chancellor position emphasized during a forum held Wednesday in Kealakekua. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii residents got their first chance Tuesday to interact with the final four candidates vying for the chancellorship of Hawaii Community College. Tribune-Herald.

For many of the 52,000 local Bank of America mortgage holders who have lost–or could lose–their houses due to the bank’s nationwide frenzy of mortgage foreclosures, the possibility of being houseless is terrifying. Honolulu Weekly.

University of Hawaii officials, UH medical students and contractors gathered Wednesday to bless the university's Cancer Center in Kakaako at the medical school. KITV4.

Hawai’i got its first news that radioisotopes from the Japanese nuclear crisis had appeared in local food on April 10, when the Environmental Protection Agency posted results of testing on milk from a Big Island dairy. Big Island Weekly.

Hawaii civil unions become law with Abercrombie signature, Honolulu asks Rush Limbaugh to apologize, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii civil union photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Final approval of a proposal to legalize civil unions is a step closer to same-sex marriage in Hawaii, supporters say. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii has become only the 7th state in the nation to recognize civil unions for same-sex couples. KHON2.

A group of civil union supporters applauded wildly when Governor Neil Abercrombie signed Senate Bill 232 into law. They had gathered at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel to watch an internet feed of the bill signing. Hawaii News Now.

Civil union supporters gathered at several events across town to watch and celebrate as Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed the controversial bill into law. KITV4.

The bill-signing at the Hawaii governor's mansion was historic, triumphant and personal. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed same-sex civil unions into law, granting gay and lesbian couples the same state rights as married partners. Associated Press.

After a long, hard-fought battle, civil unions became law today in Hawaii. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie, proclaiming that diversity defines rather than divides people of the state, signed a bill into law legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples beginning next year. Hawaii Reporter.

Thinking back to 1998, Renae Hamilton says she can recall the bitter and divisive campaign she went through in trying to gain marriage rights for same-sex couples through the ballot box. Star-Advertiser.

Fifty supporters applauded and shouted in joy at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel after witnessing the governor, via live Internet feed, sign the landmark civil unions bill into law yesterday afternoon. Star-Advertiser.

It was a busier than usual Wednesday night at Hula's Bar and Lei Stand. Hawaii News Now.

Local gay rights groups are hailing the decision by President Barrack Obama to reverse a 15- year policy on the Defense of Marriage Act, what some refer to as DOMA. KITV4.

A Marriage of Convenience. “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” --a complex and costly policy. Honolulu Weekly.

The state Senate has delayed the confirmation vote for William Aila, Jr. to lead the state Department of Land and Natural Resources after one senator expressed concerns about whether Aila adequately disclosed his commercial fishing license and aquarium fish permit. Star-Advertiser.

A Senate vote on the confirmation of William Aila as chairman for the Department of Land and Natural Resources is being delayed until next week because of concerns that he wasn't forthcoming to senators.Associated Press.

Kona coffee farmers will have new weapons in the battle against the coffee berry borer beetle: two pesticides containing a fungus that has helped keep this destructive pest in check in other parts of the world. West Hawaii Today.

Nine state lawmakers are traveling to the Big Island this weekend to see projects connected to environmental job creation and food and energy self-sufficiency. Associated Press.

After shutting down construction on its new site two weeks ago, the Molokai Community Health Center (MCHC) will be receiving $500,000 in state funds by the end February. Molokai Dispatch.

All islands remain under a flash flood watch today, as a lingering unstable weather system threatens more heavy rain and thunderstorms. Star-Advertiser.

The City Council approved a resolution yesterday urging conservative radio personality Rush Limbaugh to apologize for mocking Chinese President Hu Jintao during his visit to Washington, D.C., last month to meet with President Barack Obama. Star-Advertiser.

Today the price of a barrel of oil hit $100 for the first time since 2008 and there's expected to be even more pain at the pump. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Electric employees have once again authorized a strike. KHON2.

The Honolulu’s Ethics Commission has begun gathering information about a complaint that claimed a deputy police chief arranged for officers to be paid overtime or change their schedules. He allegedly did so to allow them time to appear at a weekend open house for his son's Cub Scout troop. KITV4.

A decade in the making, the 2010 U.S. Census has finally made it to Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The most important county commission in 10 years narrowly escaped beginning its work without its West Hawaii members -- a full one-third of its membership -- thanks to missteps in Mayor Billy Kenoi's administration. West Hawaii Today.

Get ready to dole out a little more to keep county water flowing to your home or business. West Hawaii Today.

Several community members, mostly tourism and development industry professionals, attended a workshop Tuesday intended to clarify questions related to a law that could set strict parameters on the proliferation of hotels and vacation rentals on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Representatives of the proposed Kaiwahine Village said they would consider additional parking and plan to hire union carpenters if the 120-unit affordable housing project were approved. Maui News.

Life-changing isle programs face ax. Tribune-Herald.

Sailors slain by Somali pirates had ties to Maui. Maui News.

Gay judge nominated to state Supreme Court, civil unions bill advances, Abercrombie seeks pay cuts, not furloughs, Akaka loses committee chairmanship, pesticides sought to curb Kona coffee beetle, landfill woes continue, more Hawaii news

Photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A measure creating same-sex civil unions in Hawaii has cleared its first hurdle. Associated Press.

A proposal to allow couples — same- or opposite-sex — to enter into a civil union took its first step in the state Legislature as lawmakers appear ready to move quickly on the issue. Star-Advertiser.

The senate judiciary committee held the first hearing on what will likely be a handful of different civil unions measures introduced this session. KHON2.

Last year there were flag wavers, sign holders on the street, and songs of victory and defeat. But this year the first public hearing of a civil unions bill was minus fanfare. Hawaii News Now.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday passed a bill to provide civil unions, offering benefits and responsibilities identical to marriage, for unmarried couples.KITV4.

Gay Supreme Court Nominee Hopes To Inspire Youth. KITV4.

Sabrina Shizue McKenna, a longtime state judge and former University of Hawaii women's basketball player who was born in Tokyo and raised by a single mother, was nominated to a 10-year term on the Hawaii Supreme Court yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie Testy In Naming McKenna. Civil Beat.

Senior Family Court Judge Sabrina McKenna, 53, has been nominated by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to serve on the Hawaii Supreme Court. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s pick of Sabrina S. McKenna as his first judicial appointee — to the Hawaii Supreme Court no less — gives momentum to groups that have been lobbying for years to get more women promoted through the Judiciary’s ranks. Pacific Business News

Furloughs won't fly under Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie, but pay cuts for government workers might. Associated Press.

A state Senate committee has approved legislation that would grant a governor the authority to nominate members of the state Board of Education. Associated Press.

Food security, sustainable energy, Native Hawaiian culture a priority for Hawaii non-profits. Hawaii Independent.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka will move from chairman of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee to lead the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, a loss of influence for the state's junior senator. Star-Advertiser,

Hawaii fourth and eighth graders have performed below already low national scores on a national science assessment. Associated Press.

Half of Hawaii eighth-graders and nearly 40 percent of fourth-graders in public schools tested "below basic" proficiency in science on a national assessment, according to results released yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Board of Education member Lei Ahu Isa resigned yesterday, saying she wanted to give the governor the chance to make his first BOE appointment. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Health says levels of the carcinogen hexavalent chromium in Honolulu's water supply are low and the city's water is safe to drink. Associated Press.

Your tap water is safe. That was the message Tuesday from state health officials after chromium 6 test results were made public. KHON2.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Tuesday issued an order to Waste Management, Inc., with the company agreeing to take immediate steps to clean up recent releases of waste and contaminated stormwater and prevent future releases from the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

The operator of Oahu's only landfill has one week to come up with a plan to avoid a repeat of the events that sent storm water with medical waste and other trash into waters at the edge of Ko Olina Resort. Star-Advertiser.

The Environmental Protection Agency today ordered the immediate clean up of contaminated storm water at the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill. KITV4.

While the future of Waimanalo Gulch Landfill is uncertain, another landfill nearby is embarking on an innovative project. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Big Island unemployment rate fell to its lowest level in two years, according to data released Monday by the state Department of Labor. Tribune-Herald.

State legislators will consider two bills taking a different approach to new regulations on open water fish farming. West Hawaii Today.

The state Agriculture Department is taking a step toward bringing in pesticides used worldwide to control the coffee berry borer. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Health is warning people not to eat more than a hundred local food brands, but the recall list isn't accurate. Hawaii News Now.

After successful participating last year, the crews of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutters Kittiwake and Ahi are currently stationed in Honolulu, scheduled to participate in Ka Molokai Makahiki games this weekend. Molokai Dispatch.

In little more than three weeks on the job, acting Maui County Prosecuting Attorney John D. Kim already has improved morale in the office and helped reduce a backlog of felony cases in 2nd Circuit Court, attorneys told Maui County Council members reviewing his nomination Tuesday. Maui News.

Targeting major highways as well as some well-traveled neighborhood roads, Maui police issued nearly 700 citations to speeding drivers during five days of stepped-up enforcement last week.Maui News.

Ten University of Hawai‘i at Manoa undergraduate students will be spending the Spring 2011 semester as legislative interns in the offices of state representatives and senators, and one will serve as an intern in the city Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Garden Island.

Hawaii fish farm faces coral damage fine, state House still out of order, ignition interlock law flawed, airport chief wants more money, Maui resort taken over by lenders, Lanai wind farm discussion slated, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Technology finally enabled scientists to prove what they'd thought to be true: A network of protected marine areas will help replenish fish stocks in areas more than 100 miles away. West Hawaii Today.

Kona Blue Water Farms faces a $6,750 fine for damaging coral when it moored a net pen in the Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor last year. West Hawaii Today.

State House Speaker Calvin Say and a dissident faction challenging his leadership traded proposals over the weekend but have yet to reach a power-sharing agreement to organize the House. Star-Advertiser.

Why the big fuss over who the next House Speaker will be? In a word: power.Civil Beat.

Maui Democratic Party chairman Lance Holter is urging Hawaii House Democrats to resolve their leadership struggle internally, without including Republicans. Associated Press.

Supporters of same-sex civil unions are optimistic that a new governor who supports their plight means 2011 will be the year a civil union bill becomes law in Hawaii. KITV4.

A legislative informational briefing will be held on Tuesday, January 11 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Hawaii State Capitol in Room 229 to discuss the Oahu industrial wind power plant proposed for Lanai. Hawaii Independent.

Directing the Department of Budget and Finance is one of the state's most important and challenging jobs, given that the present economic recovery probably will not generate enough added revenue to close a roughly $700 million projected state budget deficit through June 2013.Star-Advertiser.

The winter storm that pounded the Waianae Coast last month also filled one of the cells at Waimanalo Gulch Landfill with rainwater that was eventually pumped into the ocean. KHON2.

A flaw in Hawaii's new ignition interlock law prevents second and third time DUI offenders from being able to get the device installed in their vehicles as the law intended. Hawaii News Now.

The 2011 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Conference – APEC – will be conducted in Hawaii in 10 months. Today, members of the Hawaii Host Committee updated a Honolulu City Council Committee on their latest plans. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii airport officials Monday told lawmakers they want to hire more than 200 people, many of them to repair and clean-up Hawaii's airports. KITV4.

Administrators plead case for cleaner airport restrooms. Hawaii News Now.

The Supreme Court has rejected an appeal from a lawyer who has been in the forefront of the challenge to President Barack Obama's citizenship. Associated Press.

The U.S. Supreme Court won’t be hearing an appeal from so-called “birther” attorney Orly Taitz. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai County canceled the first Furlough Friday of the year after saving and raising funds to stave off furloughs for the fiscal year. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai County officials said they have canceled the first furlough day of 2011, which would have been Friday. KITV4.

The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa on Maui has been taken over by a group of lenders including New York-based Paulson & Co. who seized control of former CNL Hotels & Resorts Inc. from Morgan Stanley. Pacific Business News.

From grocery stores to toy stores, businesses beginning on Tuesday will no longer be giving out plastic bags to their customers. The county's plastic bag ban takes effect then, following a long publicity campaign. Maui News.

As one part of the County's B.Y.O. Bag: Shop Smart campaign winds down, another part begins, as the county will now have to condition residents to change their behavior. Maui News.

The saying paper or plastic is now a thing of the past. KHON2.

A live bat discovered in a shipment of radishes and turnips from Korea tested negative for rabies after it was discovered in a Pearl City produce storage facility last week, state agriculture officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

Information from a Japanese man who pleaded guilty in October to smuggling 42 exotic turtles and tortoises into Honolulu airport has helped lead to two arrests in Los Angeles on similar charges. Star-Advertiser.

Shallow and relatively short. That was the extent of Oahu's most recent housing market downturn, which was reversed last year by a 3.1 percent rise in the median sale price of previously owned single-family homes to $592,750. Star-Advertiser.

Students commuted to class in the rain Monday morning as spring semester started at Kaua‘i Community College. Garden Island.

Hawaii mayors want to end furloughs, Mauna Kea telescope hearings slated, Kileaua quiets, county governments reorganize, biofuels spotlighted, unemployment lapses, more news

The Naval Facilities Engineering Command Hawaii says a Pearl Harbor submarine wharf has been upgraded to accommodate the Navy's new Virginia-class submarines. Associated Press.

Hawaii Mayors Want To End Furloughs. KITV4.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle wants to eliminate public worker furloughs in his city. Associated Press.

The following furlough days and holidays will affect certain state or county services in December. Star-Advertiser.

The state plans to hold two public hearings this week on a proposal to build the world's largest telescope at Mauna Kea's summit. KITV4.

Outgoing DLNR director says parks, harbors and trails are in disrepair because the state won't commit the needed funding. Civil Beat.

Across the country cities are setting aside money they don't have to replace perfectly good traffic signs. KHON2.

Hawaii has applied to be the 32nd state to borrow from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration to pay state unemployment benefits. Hawaii Reporter.

Yesterday was the first day that people who otherwise would have received extended unemployment checks went empty-handed. Star-Advertiser.

Almost 17,000 Hawaii residents receive regular unemployment benefits up to 26 weeks. Another 11,000 are on extended benefits that go up to a maximum 73 weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Former state House Minority Leader Lynn Finnegan, who was the Republican lieutenant governor nominee, is the new executive director of the Hawaii Charter Schools Network. Star-Advertiser.

Two state senators are visiting Kauai farmers to hear about their problems and concerns in preparation for next month's legislative session. Associated Press.

Sometime this week, the U.S. Senate is expected to vote on a bill that could radically change how the federal government--in fact, how the world -- handles food safety. Big Island Weekly.

Biofuels: Boom or Bust? The future of energy in Hawai‘i. Honolulu Weekly.

Recently re-elected Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. drew a standing ovation at his inauguration ceremony, after a speech that revealed many grand plans for the island in the next 10 years. Garden Island.

Another day and another set of appointments for top Maui County positions from Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa. Maui News.

The new County Council, during its inaugural meeting held Wednesday at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall in Lihu‘e, gave County Clerk Peter Nakamura and County Attorney Al Castillo the green light to keep their jobs. Garden Island.

A wave of public opposition Tuesday persuaded a lame-duck County Council to postpone a $56 million bond authorization until it can be heard by a new council seated Dec. 6. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council played Grinch to Mayor Billy Kenoi on Tuesday, postponing till after the holidays his request to borrow $56 million. Tribune-Herald.

With mutual allegations of insincerity flying, the County Council Water Resources Committee on Tuesday decided to allow its resolution about exploring the possibility of acquiring the Piiholo South water well to expire. Maui News.

The show is over at the ocean entry point at Kilauea Volcano. KHON2.

A 3rd Circuit Court judge took under advisement arguments about whether a mainland bonding company should deposit about $35 million with the court while Hawaii County's case against it proceeds. West Hawaii Today.

A small gathering at the state Capitol marked World AIDS Day in Hawaii. KHON2.

Those red ribbons all around the world on Wednesday, reminded people that AIDS continues to take lives. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Democratic Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka are calling for the repeal of the military's 'don't ask, don't tell' policy that bars gays and lesbians from openly serving in the armed services. Associated Press.

It was supposed to be a family vacation to celebrate their parents 45th wedding anniversary and spend the holiday with relatives. KHON2.

During the second part of a two phase expansion, Molokai’s Coffees of Hawaii anticipated bringing the community a full restaurant menu, extended hours and a safe place a have a drink with friends in the evenings in Kualapu`u. Molokai Dispatch.

The Social Media Club of Hawaii wants to recognize local accomplishments, online good deeds. Hawaii Independent.

Complete Hawaii coverage of civil unions HB444 veto, other Lingle vetoes. more Hawaii news

Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a civil-unions bill yesterday after concluding it was the equivalent to marriage, which she believes should be reserved for a man and a woman. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's governor on Tuesday vetoed legislation that would have permitted same-sex civil unions, ending weeks of speculation on how she would weigh in on the contentious, emotional debate. Associated Press.

In announcing her veto of HB 444, Gov. Linda Lingle called it maybe the hardest decision she's made in eight years in office. Hawaii News Now.

Saying House bill 444 was essentially marriage by another name Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed legislation Tuesday that would have granted the same rights and benefits of marriage to same-sex couples. KHON2.

It was an argument, and people driving on Beretania Street couldn't miss it as they drove past the state Capitol about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. Civil Beat.

Governor Lingle's HB444 Statement: KHON2.

The ACLU and other pro-civil unions groups expect to file suit in state court within the next month or so, after Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed civil union legislation Tuesday. KITV

Supporters who wanted civil unions given the same status as marriage aren't happy with the Governor's decision, and vow to continue fighting. KHON2.

At least two of the three leading candidates to succeed Linda Lingle as governor say it should be up to a vote of the people to decide the issue of civil unions. Hawaii News-Now.

"I VOTE" was the message emblazoned on white T-shirts and buttons that hundreds of opponents to the civil-unions bill wore yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Linda Lingle on Tuesday vetoed House Bill 444, which took two years to be approved by the state Legislature and would have given same-sex and heterosexual couples the same rights and benefits as couples united by traditional marriage. Garden Island.

The civil unions bill may have gotten the most attention, but the governor also vetoed a number of other measures Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle has vetoed legislation that would have banned shark feeding, including by boat tours that offer a close-up look at sharks. KITV

Saying it could take funds away from other programs at a time when most state employees are making sacrifices, Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a proposal to raise the salary cap for the state schools superintendent and provide performance bonuses for other top education officials. Star-Advertiser.

UH officials say a major security breach could impact an estimated 53,000 people. KHON2.

As dozens of women and children danced to the beat of Taiko drums Saturday at Kohala Hongwanji Mission's bon odori dance, Waimea resident Luana Cuyo said she could feel the spirit of her late stepfather. West Hawaii Today.

Firefighters responded to at least a dozen fires during the Fourth of July weekend, some of which were suspected to be caused by fireworks. Maui News.

Fires -- at least one possibly resulting from festive fireworks use -- broke out in each corner of Hawaii Island during the holiday weekend. Tribune-Herald.

“Voices of Maui: Natives and Newcomers,” a new book authored by award-winning Lahaina News columnist Norm Bezane, is being previewed on a YouTube video and will debut online and at selected locations in Lahaina this week. Lahaina News.

This week Governor Lingle has an opportunity to leave a historic legacy for Hawai’i. HB 1665 protects Hawaii’s history by prohibiting sale of government owned Hawaiian fishponds. Molokai Dispatch.

State panel considers homeless problem, some Advertiser reporters picked up, gay pride coming to Waikiki, counties mull tax hikes, more top Hawaii news

What does it say about the state Legislature when only two lawmakers showed up for a hearing on dealing with Hawaii's growing homeless problem?

Placing time limits on public housing and revisiting the idea of buying one-way plane tickets to send homeless people back to the mainland are among the ideas lawmakers might consider next year as they search for cost-effective ways to manage the state's growing homeless problem.

As service providers report increases in homelessness, and with no new funding to address the situation, some lawmakers yesterday said the state needs to crack down on people who abuse the system and needs to start asking tough questions, such as whether residents should have preferences for services over new arrivals.

Some state lawmakers are trying to get a better understanding of just how many new homeless people are arriving in Hawaii every year.

The new Honolulu Star-Advertiser will welcome more than two dozen soon-to-be-former Honolulu Advertiser employees come Monday, the day the new broadsheet format debuts.

The news behind the scenes at the Honolulu Advertiser isn't good.  Nearly four out of five people in the news department will be out of work after this weekend when the paper merges with the Star Bulletin.

Veteran journalists will soon be joining the ranks of the unemployed as Honolulu becomes a one newspaper town after this weekend.

In a state that generously flaunts rainbows on its license plates and storefronts, denizens of Waikiki may not notice the spike in rainbow-colored accoutrements that’ll pervade street corners this week.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is asking the state Supreme Court to resolve a $200 million dispute with the state.

More than 3,500 acres of lowland forest in the Wai'anae Range that are a prime source of O'ahu's drinking water and home to dozens of endangered species are now protected thanks to a purchase involving a federal, state and private partnership.

Republican Gov. Linda Lingle has issued an executive order to establish surfing reserves at two of Hawaii's most beloved surfing areas.

Popular surf areas along Waikiki and Sunset Beach have been designated surfing reserves under an executive order that Gov. Linda Lingle said highlights "the importance of protecting, nourishing and developing Hawaii's world famous surf sites."

Lieutenant Gov. James “Duke” Aiona recently urged nonprofits across the state to enroll in the 2010 Summer Youth Employment Program and receive help from young workers immediately through September 30.

Leave Kaaawa alone - that's the message from parents in Windward Oahu as the Board of Education considers a plan to close Kaaawa Elementary School to save money.

Insufficient funding is the cause of delays in constructing the Ocean View-Kahuku water system, said the manager of the county Department of Water Supply.

Mayor Billy Kenoi wanted to know how County Council members can cut his proposed $376 million budget.

Despite a land title cloud cast by litigation, a Waikoloa affordable housing project is progressing and homes should be ready to sell by fall.

WAILUKU - Condominium owners turned out Tuesday to oppose legislation that would push thousands of units into a higher property tax classification, saying it would be an unfair burden and could drive more condominium units into foreclosure.

The 2010 Census is well underway and census takers are canvassing the Big Island right now to get the best up-to-date information about the population of the U.S. The census is used to determine many important factors from legislation representation to federal grant money.

A veterinarian who had earlier treated some of the 16 horses seized from Lara Butler-Brady by Kaua‘i Humane Society officers Sunday said Tuesday all of the horses should survive.