Hawaii budget up but workforce lags, Reapportionment Commission counting some military, but not enough to change Senate seats, Aina Koa Pono agrees to EA, ordnance removal coming to Maui as environmental groups object, songbirds moved to Laysan, more news

Gov. Neil Abercrombie courtesy photo

Despite growing its operating budget this year, Hawaii state government has yet to restore its work force to pre-recession levels, according to an analysis by Civil Beat. Civil Beat.

The Sierra Club Hawaii chapter and several other environmental and cultural groups urged Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday to withdraw an emergency proclamation that he made to help the Army Corps of Engineers remove unexploded ordnance, but the governor declined. Star-Advertiser.

About 16,000 residents, predominantly military members and students, will be excluded from the state's population base when the state Reapportionment Commission submits its final plan for redrawing state political boundaries. Star-Advertiser.

State negotiators had no explicit backup plan in the event that Hawaii teachers rejected their collective bargaining agreement in June, according to Don Horner's testimony before the labor board. Civil Beat.

The state of Hawaii has agreed to team up with 8 other states, the IRS and the U.S. Department of Labor to crack down on business owners who they believe are improperly labeling workers as “independent contractors.” Hawaii Reporter.

Federal officials have moved two dozen endangered songbirds from Nihoa in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to Laysan 650 miles north in the hope they will establish a new population there and prevent the extinction of the species, officials said Monday. Associated Press.

Hawaii continues to be a hot travel deal, according to a popular travel company. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Don Horner, who has devoted more than half his life to First Hawaiian Bank and helped turn the company into the state's largest financial institution, will retire as chief executive officer at the end of the year. Star-Advertiser.

Topless Protesters Don't Have Day In Court. KITV4.

The owner of the Kamehameha Drive-In property in Ai’ea is planning to develop it for mixed residential and commercial use. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than 60 laptops stolen in school burglary. KHON2.

Hawaii
A company that plans to build a biofuel plant in Pahala will commission an environmental assessment even though it's not required. West Hawaii Today.

Business has picked up at Hawaii County's Building Division, but that hasn't translated into jobs for the island's beleaguered construction industry, experts say. Tribune-Herald.

Protections built into a proposed impact fee ordinance and in state law should assure taxpayers that needed infrastructure will be built when new development puts a strain on existing facilities, Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

By the end of this month, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its contractors will begin a $2 million investigation at the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve to assess the type and location of old, unexploded shells and bombs in the area formerly used for military exercises. Maui News.

A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers official said Gov. Neil Abercrombie's proclamation that lets the corps bypass state laws to investigate and remove military ordnance helps gain access to state lands, but the corps still has federal rules to follow. Maui News.

Kauai

The Rotary Club of Kapa‘a along with a handful of local Kapa‘a residents spent Saturday morning removing ocean debris from the Kealia Beach area. Garden Island.

Molokai

A joint venture including Pattern Energy will bid on the proposed 200-megawatt wind farm on Molokai as part of the so-called “Big Wind” project. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Tourism Authority targets North America, Oahu crime drops, Honolulu to host Medal of Honor ceremony, Kona donkeys arrive in California, garbage wars, sewage spills, pay freezes and other Hawaii news

Waikoloa resort (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is due to discuss its plan for marketing Hawaii in North America next year at a meeting this week. Associated Press.

Hawaii GOP Plans to Field CD2 Candidate. Civil Beat.

Most Hawaii State Senators Use Facebook. Civil Beat.

Local 'Ag' Strives to Meet Hawaii's Energy Needs. Civil Beat.

It's been touted for years, now it's less than two months until November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Hawaii. KHON2.

Oahu

Oahu's total crime rate in seven categories dropped in 2010 to its lowest level since Hawaii began using the federal standard 35 years ago. Star-Advertiser

The Honolulu Medal of Honor 2012 host committee announced Saturday that the Congressional Medal of Honor Society had selected Honolulu to host its 2012 national convention. KITV4.

The ACLU has protested the arrest of a topless protestor and her husband in Waikiki last month, calling the action unconstitutional and demanding that a citation against the pair be dismissed. Hawaii Reporter.

For 45 years, troubled kids have been going to the "storefront school" in Wahiawa to make up credits and get a little tough love — and a lot of encouragement — to make it to graduation day. Star-Advertiser.

Over the weekend, State Civil Defense director Ed Teixeira stayed in close contact with crews dealt the difficult task of removing a 7 to 10-ton boulder from along the ridge side above Niu Valley. KITV4.

The unveiling of the Turtle Bay master plan, called “Tomorrow’s Ahupua’a,” for the proposed development of the North Shore resort on Thursday was preceded by a sign waving rally held by opponents of the proposed large scale development. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu was recently voted to the top 10 tattoo-friendly cities in the U.S. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Big Island garbage haulers are sliding further behind in more than $1.5 million of seriously past-due landfill fees to the county, but a Department of Environmental Management in disarray has so far done little to protect the taxpayers' interests. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiians had a saying: "He i'a make ka 'opihi": The opihi is the fish of death. Tribune-Herald.

Most people have been on a plane with a few jackasses before. But 10 dozen donkeys on one flight? Associated Press.

Maui

Despite a rebound in tourism, Maui County continues to shed jobs well after the official end of the recession, economist Leroy Laney said. Pacific Business News.

Environmental officials are warning the public about thousands of gallons of wastewater that spilled on Maui’s North Shore. Associated Press.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources and several lawmakers heard concerns about dredging Lahaina Harbor, understaffed state enforcement officers and other issues during two "listening sessions" Saturday on Maui. Maui News.

Maui's axis deer problem has become so bad that the introduced animals with no natural predators have eaten entire crops and cost some South Maui golf courses up to $10,000 annually for repairs to trampled grass, testifiers told the Maui County Council at Friday's regular meeting. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council plans to reconsider its decision on a resolution that would have frozen the salaries of most county officials for the next two years when it meets Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

County officials announced that long-time county employee Glenn Sato has been selected as the Kaua‘i County sustainability manager, a newly created position. Garden Island.

Hawaii unemployment rate up, second Abercrombie Cabinet member resigns, Japanese message in bottle reaches Kauai, homeless camps airlifted off Diamond Head, Kona coffee lawsuit brewing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A hand grenade found Sept. 2 and a 57 mm Japanese mortar round discovered Thursday at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area on Hawaii Island have been detonated by the Army Corps of Engineers as an ordnance cleanup continues there, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's unemployment rate rose to a seasonally adjusted 6.2 percent in August in yet another sign that raises questions about the strength of the state's economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Human Resources director, Sunshine Topping, will leave her post Friday. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has appointed Barbara Krieg as interim director of the state Department of Human Resources Development after director Sunshine Topping resigned. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's latest graduation policy proposal that reverses a recommendation to reduce social studies requirements also goes against promises made in the state's Race to the Top. Civil Beat.

Russians Help Hawaii Hunt for Japanese Tsunami Debris. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

The Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo ended today in Honolulu. Some policy makers and planners asked why not use more volcanic heat to generate electricity in Hawai’i. Hawaii Public Radio.

They came by land and by air and in the end, more than 50 homeless campsites were torn down and removed along Diamond Head Crater. KHON2.

The state has ordered evacuation of 28 Niu Valley houses this weekend when two boulders — one of which weighs 7 to 10 tons and is likely to come loose — will be removed from a ridge above the structures. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii is considering raising tuition and on Friday the public will have the chance to weigh in. Hawaii News Now.

Lane closures related to nighttime soil sampling work for the Honolulu Rail Transit Project will begin Monday, September 19, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) announced today. Hawaii Independent.

Former Kaneohe Marine Awarded Medal Of Honor. KITV4.

The U.S. Department of Education on Thursday named three Oahu schools to the 2011 National Blue Ribbon Schools list. KITV4.

It's a decades old debate of how to go about growth while maintaining the north shore's unique environment and community.KHON2.

Hawaii

A spat involving Safeway and Hawaii coffee growers is still brewing, even after the supermarket giant agreed to change labeling on its Kona blend coffee. Associated Press.

In a modern take on the great land rushes of the 19th century, Hawaii County is preparing to issue agricultural leases for Paauilo lands that have sat idle since 1994. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Blue Water Farms Inc. will soon be no more. The company that marketed its farmed amberjacks as Kona Kampachi is dissolving. West Hawaii Today.

Only two members of the public showed up Thursday evening to a hearing in Hilo by the state Department of Health's Clean Air Branch on proposed new restrictions to open burning. Tribune-Herald.

With supply lagging, a slow economy, high gas prices and used car prices rising, some local automobile dealers said sales may continue to creep ahead or fall behind last year's numbers, but no one can be certain in a volatile market. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. presented formal requests to Maui County Council members Wednesday for the entitlements the company needs to build the Pulelehua housing development in Mahinahina. Maui News.

There’s been a lot of belt-tightening across the state in recent months, but nothing like what happened on Maui. Pacific Business News.

State officials are completing a report with recommendations for the East Maui Animal Refuge to obtain a wildlife rehabilitation permit in the wake of an inspection and the federal seizure of 17 birds from the Haiku facility last month. Maui News.

Kauai
County ends fiscal year with 160 jobs open. Garden Island.

A sailor participating in a beach cleanup in Hawaii found a message in bottle that had been dropped in the ocean more than five years ago by a Japanese school girl. Star-Advertiser.

An unexpected treasure was found underneath the sizzling sun on the beaches of the Pacific Missile Range Facility Thursday, discovered by Navy Petty Officer Jon Moore during Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup Day. Garden Island.

Japan gives Hawaii GMO papaya industry big boost, state tops nation for workplace meth, radiation worries at Kaneohe Bay, Big island power plant advances, DLNR scolded by Army Corps over boat dock, Kona coffee deal reached, Maui taking flowers stateside, Kaui leads state in economic growth, more Hawaii news

Hilo farmers market (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Japanese government has approved the commercial import of genetically modified papayas from Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Japanese consumers will likely be seeing genetically modified papayas on their grocery shelves beginning in December. West Hawaii Today.

There was no tsunami warning issued for Hawaii following a large earthquake that hit near Alaska Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's economic recovery is turning out to be weaker than previously thought, leaving the state in a vulnerable position as the U.S. and global economies continue to slow, according to a forecast released by a group of University of Hawaii economists.Star-Advertiser.

Hawai’i was a beneficiary of Congressional Earmarks for decades …receiving 200-to-300 million dollars a year in dedicated federal funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

A new study shows Hawaii leads the nation for methamphetamine use in the workforce. Associated Press.

Hawaii ranks 29th worst for the condition of its roads in rural areas and 16th worst for the condition of its bridges. Hawaii Reporter.

A bipartisan showing of Maui political leaders appealed to members of the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission on Wednesday to give greater representation to the Neighbor Islands as the panel draws election maps. Maui News.

The Public Land Development Corporation and its Public Lands Optimization Plan, despite the unfortunate acronym of PLOP, seems to be embraced by State officials who are looking to generate revenue through the commercial development of public lands in Hawaii through public-private partnerships. Hawaii Independent.

One Hawaii lawmaker learned the hard way how far you can go in using your public office for private business when state Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo put a stop to an email fundraiser. Civil Beat.

Federal officials are asking the community to actively participate in a plan that could shape the efforts to save the highly endangered Hawaiian monk seal, whose estimated population of 1,300 to 1,400 keeps declining about 4.5 percent a year. Garden Island.

Oahu

Former state Sen. Robert "Bobby" Bunda has been tapped to fill the 10th seat on the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's board of directors. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning months away from breaking ground. KHON2.

Local environmentalist Carroll Cox is raising concerns about the lack of public notification of what the Marine Corps revealed Thursday was a "low level" radiation release in the March crash of a CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter on the Kaneohe Bay sandbar that killed a crewmember and injured three others. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly one year after Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle was elected, he says he's proudest of getting the city's finances in order. And he has big dreams for a billion-dollar rainy day fund to ensure the city's financial future. Civil Beat.

Waikiki Hotel Employees Claim Threats, Intimidation. KITV4.

Hawaii

Safeway has agreed to change the label on packages of Kona coffee blend sold in mainland stores in response to concerns from Hawaii farmers that it didn't provide information about what percentage of the famous bean it contains. Associated Press.

The company planning to open a wood-burning power plant in Pepeekeo has received a key permit that incorporates the federal government's request for tougher emission limits. Tribune-Herald.

Almost half of the Big Island's children were exposed to alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use while in the womb, researchers report. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Thursday told the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to quit working on the Poihiki boat ramp until it gets a permit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The nonprofit East Maui Animal Refuge is hoping to regain federal and state permits to accept sick, injured and orphaned wildlife, after its federal wildlife rehabilitation permit was suspended Monday when agents seized 17 birds from the Haiku facility, said Executive Director Sylvan Schwab. Maui News.

The Maui County Office of Economic Development has announced that it has purchased ten booths at the Philadelphia International Flower Show, held from March 4 to 11. Hawaii Independent.

Kauai

Despite losing the most during the recession, Kauai is showing the strongest job growth among Hawaii’s Neighbor Island counties, according to a forecast by economist Leroy Laney. Pacific Business News.

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefits Transfer programs will be able to shop at four farmers markets and sunshine markets, starting this weekend. Garden Island.

The military says an interceptor missile failed to shoot down its intended target during a test off the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Associated Press.

Honolulu seeks survelliance cams for APEC, Ka'u biofuel plant advances, hula opposes TMT, Big Island economic recovery lags, stiff tuition hike for UH, tourists alarmed by Chinatown homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Daniel Akaka courtesy photo

Sen. Daniel Akaka is getting a prestigious award on Maui on Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Vice President Joe Biden repeatedly praised more than 1,000 Kaneohe-based Marines, sailors and other military members — and their families — in a 15-minute address at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on Thursday, then spent about an hour shaking hands with every person who wanted to meet him. Star-Advertiser.

Democrat Ed Case kicked off his East Hawaii campaign for the U.S. Senate on Thursday, telling attendees at a meet-and-greet in Hilo that he would be "so fiercely, emotionally proud" to be introduced on the Senate floor for the first time as "the senator from Hilo."  Tribune-Herald.

Governor Pushing for Native Hawaiian Registry. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii officials will begin soliciting feedback next month on their plan to increase annual tuition and fees by $528 next year for a typical undergraduate student at the flagship Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

UH president says proposed 46 percent tuition increase is ‘reasonable’ Hawaii Independent.

The teachers union is seeking documents and witness testimony about private conversations members of the state's contract negotiating team had to support the union's claim that threats made about layoffs or higher wage reductions would be part of a coordinated effort to intimidate the union into accepting a deal. Star-Advertiser.

This could be the year that Hawaii's governor gets the blessing to implement new work conditions on public employees without union approval. Or it could be the year the Hawaii State Teachers Association prevails in its protest that his action was unconstitutional and violated collective bargaining rights. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A Honolulu City Council bill would authorize the use of overt video monitoring on Oahu for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings. Hawaii Independent.

The Honolulu Police Department wants to use existing city traffic cameras and new surveillance cameras to monitor traffic and threats during Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November. KITV4.

Senator Dan Inouye spoke to the HART Board of Directors, reminiscing about the last go around for rail when the city council voted it down, and he watched federal money go elsewhere. KHON2.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says a plan to protect endangered and threatened species during the construction and operation of a proposed wind power farm northeast of Haleiwa is ready for public review and comment. Associated Press.

The first Oahu public school to receive state funding to construct a photovoltaic system has completed installation of 468 solar panels. Associated Press.

Chinese Visitors Alarmed by Homeless in Chinatown. KHON2.

Hawaii

The contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope took some unusual turns Thursday, featuring hula, music and a sudden change in venue. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed biofuels plant on the Big Island scored a victory Tuesday, with the state agency tasked with protecting consumer interests giving it its seal of approval.  Civil Beat.

East Hawaii's economic recovery will continue to be slow for the next year or two, according to economists who spoke Thursday in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A “downbeat” construction industry on the Big Island will diminish gains in the tourism sector, leading Hawaii County on a slow recovery from the recent recession, according to economist Leroy Laney. Pacific Business News

A scant dozen people came out to a public hearing Thursday to support a ban on plastic checkout bags, a stance that also drew two opposing testifiers and overwhelming opposition from 131 people in a mail-in campaign. West Hawaii Today.

An acrimonious dispute between the state Ethics Commission director and a Big Island Charter School has spilled into Circuit Court. Hawaii Reporter.

Darren Rosario has been elected the new Hawaii County Fire Chief. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Overall July visitor arrival numbers show Maui almost keeping pace, with slightly fewer tourists enjoying vacations here compared with the same month in 2010. Maui News.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono is hosting a free event Saturday aimed at helping people deal with the threat of foreclosures and guard against fraud. Maui News.

Nearly half of the restroom at H.A. Baldwin Park collapsed Wednesday afternoon, casting bathroom fixtures off the eroded edge into the sand and lapping ocean below. Maui News.

Kauai

It’s the type of culturally based restorative justice program that Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho has wanted to start since she took office in 1998. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Academy of Dance and Gymnastics, directed by Michelle Rozon, is celebrating 24 years on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Tax relief for cash businesses, NRC chides Army for depleted uranium, Lingle in Democrats' crosshairs, Hawaii farm trafficker case tossed out of court, Kona, Kauai airports under fire, more Hawaii news

Aloun Farms courtesy photo

In a courtroom disaster for the federal government, prosecutors this morning dismissed all criminal charges against brothers Alec and Mike Sou, accused in 2009 of illegally importing and exploiting farm laborers from Thailand. Hawaii Reporter.

Cleared of human trafficking charges, farmers Alec and Mike Sou want to get back to growing crops instead of defending themselves against allegations they forced 44 workers from Thailand to harvest melons, lettuce and pumpkins. Associated Press.

Jurors in the Aloun Farms human trafficking case were stunned by the mid-trial dismissal of all charges Thursday, but said it made sense given that the prosecution had put up a weak case. Civil Beat.

The abrupt collapse of the federal government's prosecution of the Aloun Farms brothers likely will affect how the court handles the related case against Global Horizons Manpower, several attorneys associated with the cases said. Star-Advertiser.

Mike and Alec Sou were just boys when their family arrived as refugees from Laos and began farming a small plot of land in Waianae in 1977, pulling out thorny kiawe bushes and rocks to clear the land. Star-Advertiser.

“What a relief!” Kapolei farmer Alex Sou said to the press after the federal government dropped its long-running criminal case against him and his brother, Mike. Hawaii Reporter.

After three days of trial in the human trafficking case against the owners of Aloun Farms, federal prosecutors on Thursday made a startling move of asking the presiding judge to throw out the charges "in the interest of justice." Hawaii News Now.

Federal prosecutors on Thursday morning dropped charges against two Hawaii businessman on trial in a human trafficking case. KITV4.

It was a stunning turn of events. KHON2.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has wrapped up its investigation of depleted uranium at Pohakuloa Training Area and Schofield Barracks by issuing a "Notice of Violation." West Hawaii Today.

The manager of the Kona Airport has been disciplined for mismanagement, while the manager of Lihue Airport was fired, after numerous complaints about mismanagement on Kauai. KITV4.

National Democrats are setting traps for former Gov. Linda Lingle as she considers a campaign for the U.S. Senate, depicting the Republican as a "partisan bomb-thrower" whose poor judgment led to teacher furloughs that closed public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Tax collectors are taking a gentler approach in going after cash business that bend state tax rules. Hawaii News Now.

Historic Ewa Airfield proposed site for renewable energy park. KHON2.

The ever-changing, ever-growing  market on Oahu is about to get even tighter. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii regulatory agency hears testimony on proposed energy project. Civil Beat.

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services announced today it has lifted a moratorium on new sewer connections in the Waimanalo Wastewater Treatment Plant service area. Hawaii Independent.

Kilauea Volcano hadn't yet started its current eruption when Hawaii Volcanoes National Park last updated its management plan. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Conservation Conference on O’ahu ended today. The focus during one session was on non-native animals and what to do about them. Hawaii Public Radio.

Improved imaging quality and new software technologies have scientists aiming to map, locate and eliminate invasive plant species before they have a chance to threaten Hawai‘i’s delicate watersheds. Garden Island.

For years, Ocean View scofflaws have used a lava tube near Paradise Parkway and Ohia Drive as their own illegal landfill. West Hawaii Today.

Police arrested and charged three people suspected of operating three separate marijuana farms this week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. reported a net loss of $2.5 million for the second quarter on Wednesday. Maui News.

Poet laureate praises Hawaii conservation, PUC gets earful on biofuel surcharge, Honolulu spruces up for APEC, DNC blasts Case for leaking poll results, Maui realtors tangle over sign laws, Hawaii County Building goes 100% solar, Abercrombie visits Hilo, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie courtesy photo

Everywhere Gov. Neil Abercrombie went on his whirlwind tour of Hilo on Tuesday, he received warm smiles, rapturous applause and vigorous handshakes. He also got a little taste of Big Isle stink eye from groups angered by the state's handling of the recently aborted contract negotiations with the public school teachers' union. Tribune-Herald.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has criticized former Congressman Ed Case for publicly releasing a private poll that shows U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, a fellow Democrat, trailing former Gov. Linda Lingle in a hypothetical matchup for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Clayton Hee has more money in his political war chest than the mayor of Honolulu and the governor, according to his latest campaign finance report. Civil Beat.

There’s still more than a year before the Aug. 11, 2012, primary election, but politicians are already jockeying for position. Pacific Business News.

The state Senate and state ethics director are in an escalating dispute over whether members of state task forces are restricted from lobbying. Star-Advertiser.

In addition to paying more for their share of health insurance, the rates for public employees will be going up 10 percent. KHON2.

Hawaii is forging ahead with clean energy developments that put the state on the leading edge of the nation’s - and perhaps the world’s - renewable energy efforts, according to Hawaii government officials. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii County officials on Tuesday unveiled the local government's newest electric source -- 1,275 photovoltaic panels that will produce up to 250 kilowatts when they're running at full capacity. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission got an earful Tuesday when it held a public hearing on an application to spread the cost of a proposed Ka'u biofuel refinery to electricity customers on Oahu and the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

The nation's poet laureate told a meeting of scientists and others involved in protecting Hawaii's natural resources that they're doing work of "desperate importance" as the world's species become extinct at an increasingly rapid rate. Associated Press.

It’s estimated that 80 to 90 percent of our food is imported. This is an alarming rate for our island state because any disruption to food supply lines would leave us with less than a week of food. Hawaii Independent.

The Aloun Farms human trafficking trial is less than two days into testimony and already it looks like the prosecution has dug itself a deep hole. Civil Beat.

Federal designation of new Big Island flood zones could force thousands of landowners to buy flood insurance and meet more-costly construction standards. Tribune-Herald.

Real estate agents on Monday said they understood why the county wanted to keep the public right of way free of signs but questioned why authorities were disposing of "open house" signs that were left up for just a few hours. Maui News.

Forget the red-carpet treatment. A more than $137 million makeover of Oahu's transportation and tourism infrastructure has turned the coming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting into more of a blacktop affair. Star-Advertiser.

A newly completed study estimates the City could save 10 million dollars in five years by merging the Honolulu Fire Department and the City Department of Emergency Services. Hawaii Public Radio.

Staff from Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore are planning to hold an open house next week to answer questions and take comments on ideas for managing the refuge. Associated Press.

Researcher suggests more specific ocean warnings. Hawaii News Now.

Close to 500 people lined Salt Lake Boulevard to wave signs in support of crime prevention programs.KITV4.

Wilcox Elementary now has a new greenhouse, made possible through a $77,945 Youth Advisory Board grant from State Farm Insurance. Garden Island.

The tiny Kalaupapa post office serves as the lifeline to its residents. However, United States Postal Service (USPS) budget deficits and decreased use of “snail mail” around the county have put that lifeline in jeopardy. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu councilman calls Hawaii GOP 'skinheads,' 76% recycle rate means no HI-5 increase, Kauai ends curbside recycling, back to the drawing board for Hawaii County building code, residents fight cell towers, sewer sludge, rail transit, DOE layoffs loom without contract, more Hawaii news

Hawaii damselfly, Dan Polhemus/USFWS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Monday proposed adding 23 shrubs, trees and flies from Oahu to the endangered species list, as well as designating about 68 square miles of the island as their critical habitat. Associated Press.

Four plants that are among the "rarest of the rare" in the world are now being considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act, along with three Hawaii damselflies and 16 other plants that can be found on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

About 700 employees could be laid off if the state Department of Education is ordered to cancel the pay cuts, furloughs and higher health care premiums for teachers it unilaterally imposed July 1, the state said in a Hawaii Labor Relations Board filing Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Recycling fees paid on every drink container sold in Hawaii won't be raised for at least one more year, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Associated Press.

Kauai County officials announced that the pilot curbside recycling program currently in place in Puhi and portions of Lihu‘e is scheduled to end this month. Garden Island.

Hawaii residents on Wednesday will get their first look at maps describing new political districts for the state House and Senate, maps that aren't likely to hold good news for the neighbor islands. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie spent far more than he raised during the first six months of the year, leaving his campaign more than $30,000 in the red, according to his latest campaign finance report filed Monday. Civil Beat.

State Lawmakers Wonder About Impacts of Compromise Debt Limit Bill Passed by U.S. House. Hawaii Public Radio.

CNN’s Chief Political Correspondent Candy Crowley spoke to legislators from 13 Western states who gathered in Waikiki on Monday, August 1, for the Council of State Governments  West division meeting. Hawaii Reporter.

Case's Poll Shows Him Ahead in US Senate Race. Hawaii Reporter.

Not in my backyard!  It's a battle cry a growing number of Hawaii residents are saying about cell phone towers and antennas being built in residential neighborhoods. KHON2.

Hundreds of illegal vacation rentals generating millions of dollars could be shut down under a proposal city officials hope will make it easier to enforce the law that bans short-term rentals without a permit. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Bob Herkes says foreclosures were getting out of control, so he did something about them. West Hawaii Today.

A state senator from Ewa said poor planning may have led to the city's decision to haul sewage from one of its overloaded treatment plants to other plants on the island. KITV4.

The Public Utilities Commission is holding some important public hearings on Tuesday and Thursday on the Big Island and Oahu concerning the proposed Hawaiian Electric Co./Aina Koa Pono-Kau LLC biofuel contract. Pacific Business News.

City Councilman Tom Berg doesn't hold back in city council meetings or as it turns out in voice mails. Hawaii News Now.

Former Governor Linda Lingle delivered a keynote address on Friday and strongly emphasized the need for greater school choice in Hawaii, while criticizing the Hawaii State Teachers Association and legislators of “maintaining the status quo”. Hawaii Reporter.

Several city councilmembers say the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit - or HART - isn't being as transparent as it should about staffing, job descriptions, and salaries. Hawaii News Now.

The Downtown Neighborhood Board is scheduled to meet Thursday, August 4 to hear and discuss a variety of issues that affect residents, businesses, and governments agencies now and for the future. Hawaii Independent.

More than 300 pot plants seized. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Building Code is not pau yet. West Hawaii Today.

One of Maui's well-known Hawaiian community members, Kahu Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr., ordained a grandson as a kahu, or minister, on Sunday, saying it was time to pass the spiritual torch after falling gravely ill two weeks ago. Maui News.

Honolulu preps for Western legislators, UPW mulls strike, Hawaii elevator inspections lag, Maui seeks pickup bed passenger ban, no homeless shuffle for APEC, Big Island removes military, students for redistricting, Senate seeks feedback on Twitter updates, more Hawaii news

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Honolulu has no intention of moving homeless people from Waikiki for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, but parks and sidewalks could be temporarily cleared for cleanup, a city official told a group of state legislators Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

With the international spotlight on Honolulu for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, the idea of creating "safe zones" for homeless people has become popular among some state lawmakers. Civil Beat.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum is scheduled to convene in Waikiki in about one hundred days. Hawaii Public Radio.

The expertise of the East-West Center and its importance in relations with the Asia-Pacific region will be on display as lawmakers from 13 Western states gather in Honolulu this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii has already spent $1.329 billion of the total $1.824 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds received to date, but just 2,046 jobs have been created. Hawaii Reporter.

With time running out for Congress to reach a deal on raising the debt limit, Gov. Neil Abercrombie began taking steps Thursday to ensure the state would be protected if the government is unable to meet its obligations. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie says he has a contingency plan if the federal debt crisis stops the flow of hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. spending here next week. Hawaii Reporter.

Three Hawaii Senate committees this past session participated in a pilot project to “tweet” updates and other information during committee hearings. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday said he is open to "adjustments or mediation" to resolve the contract impasse with the Hawaii State Teachers Association, but he says the state hasn't received any formal offer. Civil Beat.

The United Public Worker's Union, which is unhappy about proposed pay cuts, is voting on whether to authorize a strike. Hawaii News Now.

Blue collar workers represented by the United Public Workers union appear ready to play hardball in their contract negotiations with the state and the four counties. KHON2.

An art teacher from Kalani High School used his creative side to protest changes to teachers' pay as he marched in front of the state Capitol on Thursday. KITV4.

Most state and county workers in Hawaii saw a $45 to $250 drop in take-home pay this month because they are now paying a larger share of their health insurance costs. Star-Advertiser.

The next time you’re in a building with an elevator, you may want to consider taking the stairs. Garden Island.

Governor Neil Abercrombie Thursday announced Beth Giesting as the state's new Healthcare Transformation Coordinator.Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will make stops around the island during a visit to Maui on Friday and Saturday. Maui News.

The terms “renewable energy” and “energy efficiency”—previously catchwords for policy wonks at NGO’s and Bay Area progressives—have now entered the demotic as they have become necessary goals for our future environmental and financial survival. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning has scaled the first major regulatory hurdle to constructing a $250 million system to help downtown businesses cut their electricity bills. KITV4.

Unlike its state counterpart, the Hawaii County Redistricting Commission has agreed to leave nonresident military families and students out of its population counts when drawing new political maps. West Hawaii Today.

Maui Police, councilor seek to ban passengers in beds of pickups. Maui News.

The Hawaii County Wastewater Division is considering a sewer rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Under fire for mismanagement, George N. Crabbe, the manager of the Lihue Airport, has turned in his keys, airport ID and official cell phone, according to state transportation department employees. KITV4.

The Palace Theater and Hilo Downtown Improvement Association are presenting a "Town Hall Meeting" with Police Chief Harry Kubojiri and staff Thursday, Aug. 11 at the Palace. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii AG: Reapportionment count could lose in court, Maui studies telescope impact, Honolulu races landfill deadline, Big Island seeks energy solutions, rail appeal denied, Honolulu Harbor seeks expansion, more Hawaii news

Senate district growth (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Supreme Court likely would rule that nonresident students, members of the military and their dependents cannot be included in the state's population base for the purpose of redrawing Hawaii's political districts, according to an opinion from the state attorney general. Star-Advertiser.

A state lawyer says a court would likely overturn a decision to include military and students in the population as the state redraws political lines. Civil Beat.

The state Attorney General's office issued an opinion Tuesday afternoon that the state Reapportionment Commission erred when it voted to use the U.S. Census population count as the resident population base for political redistricting. Tribune-Herald.

The appointed State Board of Education is contemplating making changes to high school graduation standards. Hawaii Public Radio.

Bus fares for public school students will rise 50 cents to $1.25 for a one-way ride on Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The people on the bus may go up and down, but the cost of riding a school bus in Hawaii is only going up. Hawaii News Now.

The teachers union is asking for pay and benefits to be restored while they challenge the state's implementation of the state's "last, best and final" contract offer. KHON2

The plight of a West Maui woman who was fired after her employer learned she had obtained a restraining order has helped spur a new state law that advocates say could help protect victims of domestic violence in some work situations. Maui News.

Travel guidebooks call Kipu Falls “a glorious little hidden place” and a “swimming hole extraordinaire.” But the alluring beauty of the waterfall and natural pool conceals a deadly side. Associated Press.

Thirty-one percent of Hawaii Island's electricity is produced from renewable resources and Hawaii Electric Light Co. President Jay Ignacio wants that number higher. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu has begun the process of trying to extend the life of the Waimanalo Gulch Landfill for solid waste. Star-Advertiser.

For the last five months, a landfill selection committee has been working on finding the next site to dump Oahu's waste. Hawaii News Now.

State Denies Bombardier Rail Contract Appeal. Civil Beat.

The state is moving ahead with plans that would nearly double its cargo handling capacity at Honolulu Harbor. KHON2.

An ancient Japanese tea ceremony took place at the USS Arizona Memorial Tuesday to honor the 1,177 deceased Americans at the memorial, 65 years after the end of World War II. KITV4.

For the second time in a decade, the Sierra Club has dealt a major setback to Castle & Cooke's plans to develop a new community between Waipio and Mililani. Star-Advertiser.

The grilling of experts about the impact of the Advanced Solar Telescope on Haleakala began Monday and is expected to last through Wednesday. Maui News.

Bank of Hawaii has agreed to pay a $9 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit involving claims that the bank had improperly charged overdraft fees on debit card transactions. Pacific Business News.

The city of Portland in Oregon has come up with a solution that could be useful to Honolulu officials who are unable to evict homeless people from city bus stops and shelters. KITV4.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Student Equity, Excellence & Diversity (SEED) office has been awarded a $1.15 million grant—consisting of $230,000 annually over a five-year period through the U.S. Department of Education/TRiO Programs. Hawaii Independent.

Target's new 3.5-acre Hilo store is open, giving East Hawaii the choice of an array of grocery, clothing, electronic and home furnishing products. Tribune-Herald.

Early fundraising shows Hirono leading Case, Hanabusa, Hawaii County employees face monthly furloughs, Kauai garbage fee going up, green energy abounds and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mazie Hirono

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former Congressman Ed Case had strong fundraising performances over the past three months in the Democratic primary campaign for U.S. Senate, according to their campaigns, but Hirono has the early cash advantage. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case

The final numbers won't be official until late Friday, but preliminary data provided to Civil Beat show U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono leading her top Democratic rivals in fundraising for the U.S. Senate race. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed a bill into law that could make it easier for the cash-strapped state to renovate aging facilities or construct new buildings. KITV4.

A food safety plan passed by lawmakers has been vetoed by the governor.  Hawaii News Now.

In a stunning reversal of his recent, publically-stated intent to veto Senate Bill 1511, Governor Abercrombie signed into law the bill, which will increase lease terms for offshore factory fish farms in Hawaii’s waters from 35 to 65 years. Hawaii Independent.

The state's largest public-sector labor union has agreed to once-monthly furloughs in a separate deal signed Thursday with Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

First Wind LLC has completed an environmental impact statement for a proposed 70-megawatt wind energy project on former sugar cane land northeast of Haleiwa that would be the state's largest, generating enough energy to supply 14,500 homes. Star-Advertiser.

The Public Utilities Commission ordered Hawaiian Electric Co. Thursday to seek new bidders to develop half of the large-scale wind energy project proposed for Molokai and Lanai. Star-Advertiser.

Freezing water to make ice in Hawai’i is one of the most energy intensive businesses in the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

A group of local investors is among several on Maui trying to harness the sun's power with the latest technology, photovoltaic, to create enough electricity to power hundreds of homes and businesses without making so much as a puff of smoke, said Doug McLeod, Maui County's energy commissioner. Maui News.

A county trash collection fee for property owners went into effect July 1, adding a few dollars per month to real property taxes. Garden Island.

The hassle of waiting in long security lines will soon be a thing of the past for some Hawaiian Airlines travelers. KHON2.

Authorities now have more resources to help find missing people - two dogs donated to Big Island and Oahu police. KHON2.

They may look cute and cuddly. But don't be fooled by their friendly and playful demeanor.Hawaii News Now.

The number of reports of coqui frogs on O'ahu has doubled in the last year, after more than half the island's agriculture inspectors were laid off. KHON2.

The Big Island Visitors Bureau announced plans for the Big Isle to reclaim its rightful name, and the word "the" would play a central role. No longer will residents live, work and play on "Hawaii's Big Island." From now on, it's "Hawaii, the Big Island." Tribune-Herald.

A Maui accountant who led a long-running Ponzi scheme that cost his investors $8 million was sentenced Wednesday to serve nearly 12 years in federal prison without the possibility of parole. Maui News.

Kaiser Permanente’s ranked highest in employer satisfaction in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates U.S. Employer Health Insurance Plan Study for its fully-insured commercial health plan, Kaiser announced Thursday. Pacific Business News.

A nonprofit West Hawaii health clinic, started several years ago to recruit doctors to the Big Island, recently earned a profit and is reportedly on the turnaround. West Hawaii Today.

City Transportation Services Director Wayne Yoshioka says the city is not setting a precedent by moving a Kapiolani bus stop because of complaints about a homeless woman who had taken up residence at the shelter near Keeaumoku Street. Star-Advertiser.