Prosecutor fights sex trafficking bill, Thirty Meter Telescope work ongoing behind the scenes, lawmakers scrutinize work furlough program, 90 Big Island hospital workers face layoffs, governor signs stormwater fee, B&Bs buck Kauai law, Honolulu Handi-Van woes continue, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki at night © 2015 All Hawaii News

Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro is urging Gov. David Ige to veto a bill that would establish "sex trafficking" as a crime in Hawaii, while supporters of the same measure are mobilizing to persuade Ige to sign it into law. Star-Advertiser.

A Senate committee looked into the state’s work furlough program for prison inmates today.   The focus was on the increasing number of inmates who walk away from the program. Hawaii Public Radio.

While the state's work furlough program for prison inmates has proved to be successful, a recent rash of nearly two dozen prisoners walking away from custody has lawmakers considering tweaks to improve the system. Star-Advertiser.

Some high-profile escapes unresolved, work furlough program scrutinized. KHON2.

Governor signs 'rain tax' bill into law. Bill gives counties power to impose new stormwater fee. KITV4.

Cigarette use among island children ages 12 to 17 has dropped, according to a new federal study, and health officials hope that a bill that would make Hawaii the first state to raise the legal smoking age to 21 will further cut young people's cigarette use. Star-Advertiser.

Nelson Doi, a self-acknowledged political maverick, was remembered Tuesday as among the best political orators in Hawaii after World War II and a staunch supporter of the economically underprivileged. Star-Advertiser.

Nelson Kiyoshi Doi, former lieutenant governor, judge and state senator, died earlier this month in Waimea. He was 93. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Some seven months after the Handi-Van system was upgraded with badly needed new vehicles and real-time scheduling software, Oahu transit officials acknowledge that the big fixes they'd hoped to see aren't taking hold yet — and riders still have plenty of horror stories to share. Star-Advertiser.

Can Honolulu’s Sit-Lie Ban Pass Constitutional Muster? What started with a push by the mayor to get the homeless out of Waikiki is now an ever-expanding effort by the City Council in the face of a migrating homeless population. Will a legal challenge put a stop to it? Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell is expected to sign a rezoning bill Wednesday for the contentious 11,750-home Ho‘o­pili project in West Oahu, but opponents say their fight is far from over. Star-Advertiser.

At least one classroom at James Campbell High School in Ewa Beach will be getting air conditioning later this year, after a student-run fundraising campaign raised $21,710. Civil Beat.

For the third time in the past three decades Hawaii will once again play host to the Asia-Pacific Real Estate Congress, with more than 300 attendees expected to attend this fall. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Nearly 90 employees will be laid off and some services will be cut at Hilo Medical Center, Ka'u Hospital and Hale Ho'ola Hamakua because of a projected $7 million deficit in the fiscal year starting July 1. The hospitals comprise the East Hawaii Region of Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, the state funded hospital system which is facing a $50 million shortfall overall for fiscal 2016. Hawaii News Now.

Despite the ongoing standstill atop Mauna Kea, those behind the Thirty Meter Telescope are moving forward with the $1.4 billion project. Tribune-Herald.

A new law allowing hospital privatization will likely lead to a public-private partnership between Kona Community Hospital and The Queen’s Medical Center within five years, and the construction of a free-standing emergency room near the Kona International Airport. West Hawaii Today.

Puna Geothermal Venture finished drilling a new well earlier this month intended to offset a drop in production at the 38-megawatt power plant outside Pahoa. Tribune-Herald.

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority has improved its transparency and accountability to the public, but some problems remain, the state auditor said in a report issued Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development announced that it was issuing a new Request for Proposals (RFP) on a proposed Maui County municipal utility or co-op. MauiTime.

Slowly, more bits and pieces of a former home of Hawaiian royalty are becoming visible to archaeologists, researchers and a group trying to restore a West Maui gem. Maui News.

Phase I of the bypass road between Hana Highway and Puunene Avenue is expected to be completed by July. Maui News.

Kauai

“The Planning Department’s tactics are bullying tactics.” That comment from Greg Allen gave voice to the anger and frustration many B&B operators are feeling after the county sent cease-and-desist letters telling them they had two weeks to shut down or risk facing $10,000-a-day fines. Garden Island.

Abercrombie seeks redo of Public Land Development Corp., Hawaii union membership rises, Legislature mulls sugar tax, legal marijuana, $750M to fix Honolulu airport, Hawaii County Council fights geothermal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai boat harbor (c) 2013 All Hawaii News

The Abercrombie administration wants state lawmakers to create a new development authority for state harbors and parks that would partner with the private sector on recreational and leisure projects to bring new revenue for the state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's efforts to strengthen its lobbying laws have consistently fallen victim to a resistant Legislature. Civil Beat.

Allowing a greater swath of the population to take advantage of solar energy and save money on their electricity bills is a top priority for Gov. Neil Abercrombie this legislative session. Civil Beat.

Union membership in Hawaii rose in 2012 even as the unionization rate declined nationally. Star-Advertiser.

Several key Hawaii lawmakers want to legalize marijuana in the Aloha State. Associated Press.

Bills that reform Hawaii’s marijuana laws are likely to gain traction in the state Legislature this year, bolstered by a change in House leadership and a new poll that reassures lawmakers of broad public support. Honolulu Weekly.

Four Hawaii senators want to charge 1 cent per teaspoon of sugar in each drink and use the revenue to fund community health centers and help trauma victims.  They say the tax would translate to about 10 cents per 12-ounce soda. KITV4.

Hawaii governors have a lot of appointment power. They include Cabinet members and deputy directors, judges and justices, members of board and commissions. Civil Beat.

Federal attorney Derrick Watson appeared Wednesday before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, which is considering whether to send his nomination as Hawaii's fourth full-time U.S. district judge to the Senate floor for a vote. Star-Advertiser.

As tourism fuels recovery in Hawaii, the state's tourism marketers are focusing on getting more visitors to sample neighbor islands, where hotels have more free rooms. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii President MRC Greenwood Goes to Washington During Inauguration to Lobby for Presidential Center. Hawaii Reporter.

The largest supplier of flu vaccines in Hawaii has run out of some products. KHON2.

State briefs 1/24. Associated Press.

Oahu
Travelers passing through Honolulu Airport can expect to see construction start later this year on a $750 million effort to erect new terminals, larger gates, a new rental car building and other improvements at Hawaii's busiest ­— but aging — commercial airport. Star-Advertiser.

A developer's request to raise the height limit for a new $275 million hotel in Waikiki gets its first airing before the City Council Zoning and Planning Committee today. Star-Advertiser.

The city of Honolulu has paid an exterminator $17,372 to eradicate bedbug infestations at two city-owned affordable housing complexes. Civil Beat.

Schofield soldiers train for mission as 'key leaders' of Afghan troops. Star-Advertiser.

A fiber optic cable near one that broke during a fire last Tuesday was intentionally cut Wednesday night, affecting phone and cable services around the state for the second time in less than two weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Eddie Sherman, the longtime three-dot columnist who wrote about celebrities for the Honolulu Advertiser, Honolulu Star-Bulletin and MidWeek, died Tuesday at Straub Clinic & Hospital after a massive heart attack at home, said his wife, Patty Sherman. He was 88. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Newspaper Columnist Eddie Sherman Dies at 89. Hawaii Reporter.

A bus rider was caught off guard by an army of rats. He couldn't believe his eyes and had to pull out his cell phone to catch it all on video. KHON2.

Olive Garden tops a list of national retailers eyeing a Hawaii debut. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii
Hawaii County residents offered a unified front against actions the Legislature took last year regarding what areas of the state could be used for geothermal energy. West Hawaii Today.

Almost three months after Hawaii County evicted Abel Simeona Lui and a group of Native Hawaiians claiming indigenous rights to the 784-acre oceanfront parcel, the property, purchased with taxpayer money through the public lands and open space fund, remains in limbo as the county works with community groups on how best to proceed. West Hawaii Today.

A Big Island lawmaker believes it’s “high time” for Hawaii to legalize marijuana. Tribune-Herald.

February marks the start of the Year of the Snake on the Chinese calendar, and the traditional celebration of the Chinese New Year nearly slithered away from downtown Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Three Projects Critical to the Big Island Economy. Big Island Now.

Wayne “Big Dog” Joseph, the Tribune-Herald’s running columnist who promoted health and fitness as his life’s motto, died Tuesday night. He was 65. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Planning Commission members reviewed and recommended approval Tuesday of a bill to permit transient vacation rentals at the 230-unit Puamana oceanfront resort complex in Lahaina. Maui News.

During more than 40 years as an attorney, B. Martin Luna represented developers at state and county hearings for many resorts and other large projects in Maui County. Maui News.

The 2013 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award winners for the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in the US included three Maui restaurants. Maui Now.

Kauai

The proposed Waimea Sports complex would feature facilities for all ages when it opens. Garden Island.

Wednesday was a good day for the Kaua‘i County Council to push decisions to another day, as all four bills worked by different committees were deferred to February. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County Department of Public Works is offering the public a bus tour of the proposed site for the new landfill and resource recovery park located about a mile north of Hanama‘ulu off Ma‘alo Road. Garden Island.

Molokai

A fisherman and conservationist is being honored for a lifetime of work protecting Molokai's northern coast. Associated Press.

Hawaii DOE proposes a computer for every student, Maui cane-burning opponents seek study, OHA candidate Pomroy dies, Big Island roads twice as deadly, UH gets low rankings, Hawaiian Airlines' profits fly high, more news from all the Hawaian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie at K-9 retirement, courtesy photo

A special ceremony was held today at Washington Place for one of the Public Safety Sheriff Division’s finest canines. Sheriff Deputies along with other law enforcement officials gathered for the retirement of Deputy Canine Drikus who served in the Sheriff Division from 2002 until last month. Hawaii Reporter.

The Department of Education wants to provide every public school student with a laptop or computer tablet by 2015 as part of an initiative that would also include training teachers on the devices and buying digital materials that reflect new national Common Core standards for math and reading. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and mixed-race youth are disproportionately represented in Hawaii's juvenile justice system, a recent study concludes. Civil Beat.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawai‘i Foundation (“ACLU”) has filed an amicus curiae brief (also known as a “friend of the court” brief) in United States District Court supporting the Constitutional rights of attorneys and their clients to speak privately, without monitoring and eavesdropping by prison personnel. Hawaii Reporter.

Early walk-in voting for the general election began on Tuesday. KHON2.

Voter apathy in Hawaii is getting national attention with a new CNN report that places the state rock-bottom when it comes to election day turnout. Hawaii News Now.

Fund for Freedom Committee, a Washington, D.C.-based super PAC, has reserved television advertising time in Hawaii to help former Gov. Linda Lingle's Republican campaign for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case loaned his campaign $50,000 in the final days leading up his loss in the Aug. 11 primary election, then used that money to refund contributions earmarked for the general election run that never happened. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Holdings Inc., parent of Hawaiian Airlines, reported a third-quarter profit Tuesday of $45.5 million, or 86 cents per diluted share, which was a 77 percent increase over the same quarter in 2011, when the airline posted a profit of $25.6 million, or 50 cents per diluted share. Pacific Business News.

State roundup for October 24. Associated Press.

Oahu

The number of Oahu early walk-in voters Tuesday — 1,729 — topped first-day totals for the August primary and the 2010 general elections, which were 983 and 1,261, respectively. Star-Advertiser.

A day after Honolulu mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano sued a third-party business and labor group for libel, opponent Kirk Caldwell said he's also seen enough of negative campaigning and wants to focus on issues affecting the city. Star-Advertiser.

Off the Beat: New Low In Political Ads. Civil Beat.

QS World University Rankings has the University of Hawaii at Manoa No. 283 out of 400 top universities for 2012, an improvement from its ranking of 295 last year. Pacific Business News.

Canoe paddlers rallied at the Capitol to speak out against a proposed development on Sand Island. KITV4.

Before a recall had been issued for ground beef from Higa Foodservice due to concerns about possible E. coli contamination, two elementary schools on Oahu had served students the suspect meat. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Thirty-five people have been killed on Big Island public roads through Tuesday — more than double the 16 fatalities recorded during the first 297 days of 2011. West Hawaii Today.

The Army said it is considering basing Stryker armored vehicles at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island as part of a larger plan to pre-position equipment, on land or on ships, around Asia and the Pacific to improve training, engagement and response times, and to keep costs down. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is reviewing offers by two of its power producers to stop tying energy costs to the price of oil. Tribune-Herald.

Ka‘u residents and island hunters took the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to task earlier this year during meetings to discuss the proposed Ka‘u Forest Reserve Management Plan. West Hawaii Today.

Naniloa Volcanoes Resort owner Ken Fujiyama is in default of a $10 million loan he used to purchase the hotel in 2006. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

As anti-cane burning activists don gas masks during protests and sugar workers line roadways in support of the industry, Maui’s district health officer is pushing to finish what he feels could be a definitive look at the health effects of cane smoke on the island. Maui Now.

The Krausz Cos. plans to build a 250,000-square-foot multiuse community on Maui adjacent to the Safeway-anchored Piilani Village Shopping Center in Kihei, which the California company acquired nearly a decade ago. Pacific Business News.

A fourth-generation member of Hana's iconic Hasegawa General Store that soon will be rebuilt at the site of a fire that claimed the storied establishment years ago was honored Saturday with the Tiny Malaikini Mea Kokua Award, the community's recognition for public service. Maui News.

After a criminal complaint against former police officer Christopher Kealoha was received at the Maui Police Department in February, the document went missing before it was served on him more than five months later. Maui News.

Kauai

Sharon Pomroy passed away Tuesday morning. She never regained consciousness after suffering a seizure and heart attack last Wednesday during a candidates meet and greet event in Wailua. Garden Island.

Hawaii lures Japanese tourists, 3 Hawaii Boy Scout leaders in 'Peversion Files,' 817 voters get double ballots, fired Maui liquor officer sues alleging officers took bribes, Honolulu mayor sells affordable housing complex, Big Island radio personality 'Mynah Bird' dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Spam Jam (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Tourism Authority and the Japan Association of Travel Agents are committed to returning visitor arrivals from Japan to Hawaii to 2 million per year by 2016. Star-Advertiser.

Three Hawaii residents are identified in a just-published database that documents thousands of sexual abuse allegations in the Boy Scouts of America. Civil Beat.

At least three adult Boy Scout leaders in Hawaii resigned or were forced out of the organization in the 1970s and '80s because of alleged improprieties involving children, according to documents released Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Six documents relate to six men who worked with Boy Scout troops in Hawaii in the 1960s, 70s and 80s. Hawaii News Now.

More than 14,000 pages of "confidential" files kept by the Boy Scouts of America  on suspected pedophiles are now public. KITV4.

Hawaii cases in the file -- link here.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle challenged U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono on Thursday to explain why she voted for the Budget Control Act of 2011, which raised the debt ceiling and avoided a government default but also created the possibility of automatic spending cuts to national defense. Star-Advertiser.

In Tuesday's U.S. Senate debate, Democratic Congresswoman Mazie Hirono and the Republican candidate Linda Lingle once again butted heads over who is more bipartisan. Civil Beat.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle has flatly denied ever describing President George W. Bush as the "greatest president," but she acknowledged making the statement in an email a decade ago.Star-Advertiser.

The consultant the Hawaii Department of Education hired to clean up its student transportation services mess has figured out why the cost of busing kids to and from school has skyrocketed in recent years — and what school officials must do to fix the problem. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents met for about 2 1⁄2 hours behind closed doors Thursday, continuing a discussion on the future of embattled UH President M.R.C. Greenwood. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii regents went into executive session again this afternoon to discuss UH President M.R.C. Greenwood’s employment contract, but no resolution of the matter was expected today. Hawaii Reporter.

UH Board of Regents approve biennium budget. KHON2.

The Public Land Development corp. Will Vote to Finalize Rules Next Month. Hawaii Public Radio.

Retail gas prices across the state have increased for the 10th straight week. KHON2.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate fell to a seasonally adjusted 5.7 percent last month, its lowest rate in nearly four years. Associated Press.

Oahu

The 817 voters in upper Manoa who received two absentee ballots in the mail this week are being told to destroy them and wait for another envelope to show up in the mail next week, city election officers said Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu elections officials said Thursday that 817 voters in the city’s Manoa neighborhood received duplicate absentee ballots for the upcoming election because of a printing error. Associated Press.

With less than three weeks to go until the election, the Honolulu City Clerk's office has flagged a problem. A processing error led to duplicate absentee ballots being mailed out to hundreds of registered voters in Manoa. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Peter Carlisle signed an agreement Thursday clearing the way for the lease of the city's 12 affordable housing complexes to a private group for $142 million, carrying out the goal of several mayoral administrations to get the city out of the affordable rental management business. Star-Advertiser.

SaveOurHonolulu.com, a new independent expenditure committee dedicated to stopping the $5.26 billion Honolulu rail project, has begun airing two commercials that bash the pro-rail mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The absentee ballots have been mailed, the precinct cans are being packed and phone lines at the control center are being connected. Tribune-Herald.

A marine salvage company contends a sunken sailing vessel it found off Hawaii island may contain valuable cargo and is hoping to claim the wreckage. Star-Advertiser.

Progress on the long-sought Laaloa Avenue extension was delayed again after Leeward Planning commissioners on Thursday deferred voting on a special management area permit to determine whether an area resident can contest the case. West Hawaii Today.

Seventeen people have been apprehended in connection with the recent crime spree in South Kona, and a majority of them are facing their share of 61 felony charges, area residents learned Thursday evening in Kealakekua. West Hawaii Today.

Melvin “Mynah Bird” Medeiros, both beloved and controversial as the signature voice of Hilo’s radio airwaves for more than five decades, died Thursday morning in Fremont, Calif. He was 72. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A fired Maui County liquor control officer is alleging liquor control officers overlooked violations and received free food, drinks and gifts from liquor establishments they were charged with inspecting, in a lawsuit against Maui County and four Department of Liquor Control employees. Maui News.

A Maui paddler escaped injury Thursday morning after an encounter with an 8-foot shark that took a bite of his paddleboard. Star-Advertiser.

Officials closed beaches around Kanaha Beach Park Thursday morning after a shark bit a stand-up paddle board around 7:30 a.m. off of an area known as "Kite Beach," or Kaa Point. Maui News.

A California-based retail investment trust is moving ahead with buying the bankrupt Lahaina Gateway Center from Central Pacific Bank, which foreclosed on the shopping center last year. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Island Utility Cooperative said Thursday that it will build a $40 million solar-energy facility that will generate 12 megawatts of electricity on 67 acres leased from Grove Farm near Koloa on Kauai’s South Shore. Pacific Business News.

Kaua‘i will soon have three solar facilities under construction or in development. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council’s five-member Transportation Committee by a 4-1 vote approved a bulk rate for bus passes at an 80 percent discount for Kaua‘i Community College students. The entire student body will have to pay for the passes, which will be included in the tuition. Garden Island.

Honolulu poised to sell $300M bonds to fix sewers, Hawaii County Ethics Board probes union politicking, state lawmaker fined for campaign reports, Chinese golfers new tourism target, Oahu farmworkers to get container homes, good year for mac nuts, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ala Wai canal (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The City and County of Honolulu is preparing to sell up to $300 million in Wastewater System Revenue Bonds to help pay for a variety of important repairs and upgrades. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie says the state has allotted $147 million in capital improvement spending for various state projects, including $75 million to fix roofs, plumbing and electrical systems in Hawaii schools. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission slapped state Rep. Karen Awana with a $6,800 fine Wednesday after she failed to report contributions and expenditures or respond to the office's requests for more information. Civil Beat.

What Does Tulsi Gabbard's Rising Star Do For Hawaii? Civil Beat.

Chinese visitors, long seen as the next growth market for Hawaii tourism, soon may be hitting the islands' links in growing numbers with the help of a Chinese entrepreneur and one of the most recognizable golfers in the world. Star-Advertiser.

Production of macadamia nuts in Hawaii rebounded last season after a two-year decline, with a 23 percent gain over the previous season, according to a federal report. Stephens Media.

Oahu

An owner and a manager of two small businesses in Aiea that are being displaced by the Honolulu rail project say the city is pushing them out without paying them fair compensation, and both businesses are expected to close. Star-Advertiser.

It could soon be easier for West Oahu farmers to use retrofitted shipping containers or trailers to house their agricultural workers on their property under legislation passed unanimously by the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council wants to kill a controversial recycling subsidy that has saved a single scrap yard millions of dollars. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu City Council is attempting to restore bus service on O’ahu … in light of many routes being cut to save 6-7 million dollars in overhead. Hawaii Public Radio.

The city of Honolulu said cuts to bus service needed to be made to save money. Now the City Council is talking about giving away bus rides to senior citizens and the disabled. Hawaii News Now.

The playgrounds, located at a public housing complex, were demolished with large equipment pieces left behind. KHON2.

University of Hawaii Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple has only been on the job two months, but he's already apologizing to the faculty and staff for his lack of communication. Hawaii Reporter.

A state circuit judge has rejected the third request by the former manager of a Waimanalo puppy mill to reduce his bail of $200,000 on 153 counts of animal cruelty. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Over the objections of one member who said the county Board of Ethics has no jurisdiction over union activity, the board voted 3-1 Wednesday to look into a complaint about union-endorsed politicking on county time at county facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council candidates are spending their publicly funded campaign contributions in some interesting ways this election. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii County Board of Ethics meeting erupted into a flurry of gavel-pounding and raised voices Wednesday when Hawaii County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong defended himself against an anonymous complaint that he’s inappropriately involved in the operations of the county Elections Division. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island residents will get a chance to shape Hawaii’s future energy policies this week. Tribune-Herald.

Work on the deteriorating 101-year-old Umauma Bridge along Highway 19 will get under way in a matter of months, following an announcement Wednesday by Gov. Neil Abercrombie that funds have been released for the $37.2 million project. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Board of Ethics on Wednesday cleared Windward Planning Commission Chairman Zendo Kern, who won the Puna District 5 County Council seat in the Aug. 11 primary, of any wrongdoing when he voted to allow the Hawaii Volcano Circus to continue operations after it violated its special use permit. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaiian Homes Commission will hold its annual Big Island meeting Monday in Hilo and Tuesday in Naalehu. Big Island Now.

Maui

Dozens of high-paying science and research jobs as well as the construction jobs needed to build a massive $300 million solar telescope on Haleakala could hinge on the outcome of a Friday hearing with the Department of Land and Natural Resources Board. Pacific Business News.

A combined $13 million was released today for Capital Improvement Projects at Maui’s Kahului Airport and the Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui Now.

A Maui helicopter pilot faces sentencing for illegally flying deer to the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

The median price of a single-family home jumped 26.8 percent in Maui County in August compared to the same month last year, while sales volume dipped 7.4 percent, according to the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Journalist Edwin Tanji, who covered the protests and eventual return of the military target island of Kahoolawe and other historic events on Maui, Molokai and Lanai for decades, died Wednesday after a battle with cancer. He was 65. Star-Advertiser.

Edwin Tanji, the former city editor for The Maui News and longtime Honolulu Advertiser Maui bureau chief, has died. He was 65. Maui News.

Kauai

The county of Kauai announced Wednesday it has secured the boundaries of all three Hanalei River lots previously owned by Mike Sheehan and Hanalei River Holdings LLC. The administration’s action was the culmination of an 18-month condemnation process, according to county officials. Garden Island.

Carolyn Larson, the librarian at the Lihu‘e Public Library, is concerned about the public, especially the students, who visit the library for study or to “hang out” after school. Garden Island.

Hawaii Gov. Abercrombie job approval up, IBEW lawsuit airs internal union workings, early voting begins, Pearl Harbor looks good to military, Maui mayor visiting Taiwan, Kauai rates landfill sites, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie file photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's job approval rating has climbed to 43 percent, up from 39 percent in February. Star-Advertiser.

Walk-in early voting began across the state Monday as election officials warned voters to expect lots of changes because of redistricting. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Senate candidates Mazie Hirono and Linda Lingle are already focusing on each other, even though each has yet to win her respective primary. Civil Beat.

With just days until Hawaii's August 11 primary, Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, continued to miss voting on key measures so she can fundraise and campaign for the seat left open by the retirement of U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Murder for hire, nepotism and lavish spending are central plots in a recent whisteblower lawsuit filed against the top administrator of one of Honolulu’s labor unions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s request for flexibility from some requirements of the No Child Left Behind law would use multiple measures to determine how schools are progressing. Associated Press.

Honolulu-based Matson Inc. said Monday that it has formed a philanthropic foundation that plans to give $1 million per year to nonprofit and community organizations in Hawaii, Guam and the Mainland. Pacific Business News.

A scientist who helped build public interest and research about the preservation of humpback whales has died. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 31. Associated Press.

Oahu

A new study on U.S. military forces in the Pacific recommends placing another three-ship amphibious ready group in the region — possibly in Hawaii — in addition to the 2,700 extra Marines already moving here. Star-Advertiser.

An innovative hydrogen production and vehicle fueling station jointly developed by the military and the state of Hawaii over the past six years is ready for prime time. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Kai Neighborhood Board will vet a controversial development proposal on Tuesday night by Kamehameha Schools to build a strip mall on a 4.5 acre property on Kalanianaole Highway, just across the street from popular Maunalua Bay. Hawaii Reporter.

Former state Sen. Ron Menor is the biggest name in a field of four candidates vying for far-flung Hono­lulu City Council District 9, which runs from Mililani Town to Ewa Beach. Star-Advertiser.

The Primary Election is less than 2 weeks away and three Early Voting Sites were opened today on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Every student gets an iPad; that's the goal of an Oahu school. KHON2.

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services has six major sewer projects in August that may impact roadways and traffic on Oahu. KITV4.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council is taking on vetoes of geothermal bills on Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

With no Republican challengers, the Aug. 11 primary election race between current Democratic state Rep. Mark Nakashima and challenger Noralyn Pajimola will dictate who takes the state House District 1 seat to speak for East Hawaii residents along the Hamakua Coast between Hilo and Waipio. Tribune-Herald.

The voting registration problems and a probe into possible voter fraud in Hawaii County have illustrated a potential problem: county voting officials do not have to answer to the state. Hawaii News Now.

Hilo voters ready to cast their ballots, did so Monday. KITV4.

Council Chairman Dominic Yagong is calling for patience as County Elections officials sort out apparent discrepancies in the county voter registration database. KPUA.

Maui

Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa has been selected as part of a small delegation of mayors that is visiting Taiwan to promote economic and cultural exchange with the US. Maui Now.

Restauranteur Bob Longhi died early Monday afternoon at Maui Memorial Medical Center after suffering a heart attack early Friday morning, said his son Peter Longhi. Maui News.

Kauai
County officials announced late Monday afternoon the release of the new siting study report which places Ma‘alo at the top of a list including eight potential sites for the island’s next landfill. Garden Island.

An assistant professor at University of Hawai‘i at Manoa recently told federal lawmakers the steadily increasing surface air temperature in Hawai‘i is causing reduced cloud cover and a 15 percent decline in rainfall, UH reported Friday. Garden Island.

Obama golfs, dines, endures criticism, substitute teachers need college degrees, Hawaiian Monk seals die as residents fight NOAA limits, DLNR to merge divisions, long-term care crisis looms, Hilo marijuana minister still behind bars, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

President Obama and entourage in Hawaii

As Republicans who want to be president slog through chilly Iowa in the run-up to next week’s caucuses, the man who is president moves from one enviable sun-splashed outing to the next. Tribune.

President Barack Obama spent Day 6 of his Windward Oahu holiday at a different golf course, but with familiar playing partners. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama and wife Michelle headed to one of their favorite Oahu restaurants for a date Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

The cost of the First Family's holiday vacation in Hawaii continues to cause controversy. Hawaii News Now.

Starting early next year, substitute teachers who do not have college degrees will no longer be allowed to work in Hawaii's public schools, a move that education officials said is aimed at complying with federal requirements. KITV4.

Waikiki residents Gary Bradley and Paul Perry are among the scores of same-sex couples who are preparing to say "I do" under the state’s new civil unions law. KITV4.

A third monk seal was found dead on Molokai Wednesday and officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are working to determine the cause of death. Civil Beat.

A merger of the two divisions that manage state water and land resources is on the horizon, a Department of Land and Natural Resources official says. West Hawaii Today.

The graying of the so-called baby boomer generation will soon trigger a tsunami-like demand for long-term care services that the state and its residents are not prepared for. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i is ranked No. 1 in the United States for investment in energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) for public buildings per capita, according to a ranking published by the Energy Services Coalition, a national nonprofit network working at the state and local level to increase energy efficiency through building upgrades. Hawaii Reporter.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education warned that Hawaii’s $75 million in Race to the Top educational funding was in jeopardy. Hawaii Independent.

State roundup for Dec. 29. Associated Press.

Oahu

Veteran journalist and journalism educator John Heckathorn died Wednesday morning at Straub Clinic & Hospital after suffering a heart attack Christmas morning at his home in Kalama Valley. He was 65. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Magazine editor, John Heckathorn, died on Wednesday morning after suffering a heart attack on Christmas. Hawaii News Now.

Respected journalist and teacher John Heckathorn died this morning after suffering a heart attack on Christmas Day. KHON2.

Hawaii Medical Center's Ewa hospital closed on Wednesday after transferring the last of its patients to its Liliha facility. Star-Advertiser.

The massive sea-based X-Band Radar left Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam on Wednesday morning, but Navy officials would not disclose where it was headed. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hilo marijuana minister Roger Christie has been held for 17 months without bail in the Honolulu Federal Detention Center. Civil Beat.

Pahoa's Sacred Heart Church is teaming up with an internationally trained sculptor to create a one-of-a-kind statue of St. Damien DeVeuster to commemorate his Puna missionary work. Tribune-Herald.

The Kailua-Kona Public Library will soon see its electric bill drop. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hale Makua Health Services is finalizing an application to the state Department of Health to turn a wing of its Wailuku facility into an adult residential care home. Maui News.

Upwards of 30 protesters held signs along Dairy Road in Kahului today over a three hour period, in a demonstration against a nearby tenant for the sale of reef fish. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative board has yet to discuss how it will address the impending vacancy to be created in January by the departure of director Ben Sullivan. Garden Island.

A new Professional Readiness Employment Program (PREP) Academy aims to help job seekers, particularly Native Hawaiians, with creative tools to improve their ability to find and keep good jobs. Garden Island.

Hawaii shoots for the moon, collects federal money for small business, has the worst drivers, tiger sharks attack surfers, former Hawaii County mayor dies, counties finalize budgets, more news

Theresa Fernandez rode a wave in to Lyman's Wednesday afternoon, turned her board around and was paddling out again when she felt something bump the board. West Hawaii Today.

A shark specialist says two Hawaii Island shark-biting incidents — involving bitten boards, not humans — in a span of four days at the same surf spot in Holualoa Bay were caused by tiger sharks. Star-Advertiser.

Fifty years after President John F. Kennedy's famous speech committing the country to landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to Earth, the state and NASA announced a new partnership aimed at involving Hawaii in the next phase of the agency's manned and unmanned exploration of the moon and deep space. Star-Advertiser.

The Governor marked the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s speech to land an American on the moon and return him safely to Earth within a decade … with a historic announcement for Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Federal grant will help encourage venture capital investment in small businesses in Hawaii. KHON2.

Hawaii drivers are among the least knowledgeable about the rules of the road, according to a study by GMAC Insurance. Bloomberg.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono seems to bristle every time a reporter raises the 2002 race for Hawaii governor — the race where she barely edged Ed Case in the Democratic primary and lost to Republican Linda Lingle in the general by 4.5 percentage points. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard will announce today that she will run in the Democratic primary for Congress to replace Democratic U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha has replaced the man he put in charge of the police department’s preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Honolulu this fall. KITV4.

In a sharply divided vote Tuesday, County Council members scrapped a plan to increase the minimum property tax - but they cut deeply into a number of programs in order to make up for the lost revenue. Maui News.

After months of review and weeks of fine tuning, Kaua‘i County Council approved the $269 million fiscal year 2011-2012 budget Wednesday, though not unanimously. Garden Island.

The Honolulu City Council is moving forward with a proposal that would tighten requirements for receiving a historic home tax exemption and another measure to examine all tax exemptions to determine if they should continue. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii County Mayor Stephen Yamashiro died Tuesday night at Hilo Medical Center following an extended bout with pneumonia. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program is sponsoring a small business fair. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly a third of all residential sales in Maui County during the first quarter of this year were either bank-owned properties or homes going through the foreclosure process, according to new statistics from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News

The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Hawaii Reporter.

Kohala Middle School students’ battery recycling solution comes out on top. Hawaii Independent.

The Molokai High Class of 2011 stood together for the last time in the Barn last Saturday, commemorating their past four years and facing the future that lies ahead of them as graduates. Molokai Dispatch.

Immediately after making nearly $10 million in changes to Mayor Billy Kenoi's requested operating budget, the County Council last week added roughly the same amount to his proposed construction budget. Tribune-Herald.

A $9.3 million white elephant could be put to use as early as August, under a plan described Wednesday to the Environmental Management Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Senate committee kills death with dignity bill, high-tech tax credit costs $500 million, humpback has broken back from boat collision, smoking bill moving in Capitol, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

After citing numerous examples of loved ones who outlived a doctor's terminal diagnosis or of their own victory over suicidal depression, opponents of a proposal to legalize physician-assisted suicide in Hawaii applauded as a Senate committee defeated the measure last night. Star-Advertiser.

Civil Unions Bill Hearing Today. KITV4.

There's a bill moving through the State Legislature that aims to change part of that law, by allowing smokers to light up at bars and nightclubs in Hawaii. KHON2.

The latest report on Hawaii’s controversial Act 221 high-technology tax credits concludes the laws was successful in helping prompt investment here, but that it came at a cost of more than a one-half billion dollar loss in tax revenues. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii Senate has confirmed the first two of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Cabinet appointees. Associated Press.

The House Education Committee has approved a bill that would exempt Hawaii's four most crowded schools from a new state law extending the academic year to 180 days in all public schools. Associated Press.

There's a leadership crisis at the Charter Schools Administrative Office. Civil Beat.

Either in your face bullying or the newer cyberbullying the penalty for picking on others may be getting more severe. Hawaii News Now.

The state's budget, long-term state planning, job creation and the promotion of renewable resources are atop the list of legislative measures forwarded by West Hawaii's state representatives. West Hawaii Today.

Ricebird Roz flies high for Maui. Lahaina News.

Hawaii lawmakers will hear a bill this week that would make selling aquatic life and fish found in local waters illegal. KITV4.

A boat is suspected of injuring a humpback whale spotted Monday morning in shallow waters off the Port Allen Airport.Garden Island.

The head of the Honolulu Board of Water Supply wants to accelerate the pace of pipe replacement and other system improvements — fixes that could sharply increase consumers' water bills. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental groups say the federal government has settled a lawsuit over regulations protecting Pacific loggerhead sea turtles from the Hawaii-based longline swordfish fishery. Associated Press.

A Pearl Harbor-based guided missile destroyer is due to return from a seven-month deployment to the Middle East and western Pacific. Associated Press.

No injuries are reported after an Army Black Hawk helicopter made an emergency landing on a grass field at Koko Head Elementary School. Associated Press.

A local astronomy pioneer was killed Sunday afternoon when he failed to stop at a busy Hilo intersection, slamming his mo-ped into a sport utility vehicle, police said. Tribune-Herald.

Wrongfully imprisoned: UH students reach back through an imperfect justice system. Hawaii Independent.

The new executive director of Maui Nui Botanical Gardens wants to cultivate public interest in what she calls "a cultural gem in the middle of Kahului." Maui News.

Native ecosystem preservation group gets help from Young Brothers. Garden Island.

William S. Richardson remembered, Honolulu budget up under Hannemann, Lingle stalls on civil unions veto decision, Maui water plant challenged, more

William Shaw Rich- ardson, a statehood advocate and Dem- ocratic Party leader who became lieutenant governor, chief justice of the State Supreme Court and a Bishop Estate trustee, died early Monday. KITV

William S. Richardson, a former Hawaii State Supreme Court chief justice, had a lifelong commitment to social justice that has served as a model for thousands of students whose juris doctorates bear the name of the law school he helped found. Star-Advertiser.

A longtime leader is gone. William S. Richardson died Monday at the age of 90. Hawaii News Now.


Former Hawaii Chief Justice William S. Richardson died early Monday morning at his home in Honolulu at the age of 90. KHON2.

Hawaii's political leaders mark the passing of Chief Justice William S Richardson. Excerpts from their statements are below: Hawaii News Now.


Gov. Linda Lingle on Monday bought herself two more weeks to make a decision on contentious legislation that would allow same-gender couples to form civil unions. AP.


Gov. Linda Lingle said yesterday that she had not made up her mind on civil unions and described her deliberations on the bill as perhaps the most difficult of her political career. Star-Advertiser.


Gov. Linda Lingle (R) on Monday released a list of 39 bills she may veto, including the civil unions bill. KITV.


After months of consideration, the governor has put the civil unions bill on her list of potential vetoes. KHON2.


Here is a list of the 39 bills that Governor Linda Lingle has submitted to the state legislature for potential veto. Hawaii News Now.


On Monday Governor Linda Lingle recapped her 11-day trip to Asia Hawaii News Now.

During Mufi Hannemann's half-decade as mayor, annual spending on operating expenses has gone up 39 percent to $1.2 billion, despite the nation going through the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Civil Beat.


Earthjustice filed a lawsuit Monday in 2nd Circuit Court, challenging Alexander & Baldwin's plans to build a $30 million water treatment plant in Wailuku that would draw 9 million gallons of water from contested Na Wai Eha streams. Maui News.


Breene Harimoto, an eight-year member of the Board of Education who in recent months has become an outspoken critic of its operations, will resign effective June 30 to run for City Council. Star-Advertiser.


A new plan calls for building an estimated $12 million municipal parking structure with more than 360 stalls in the heart of Wailuku town. Maui News.


Renew our faith, unite our efforts, ensure our future" is the theme of Hilo Meishoin's centennial celebration. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.


As robotics experts from around the world continue to work with submersibles to stanch the flow of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, the next generation of experts will be honing their skills right here in Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

Drought extreme, Kauai bulldozes Native Hawaiian homes, state credit rating down, Fasi remembered, command center a white elephant, Big Island stores on Target, roll call on civil unions, more state news

The rainy season here is falling so far short of normal this year that Hawaii is the only state with a National Weather Service assessment of "extreme drought" status.

Several Native Hawaiian families had their dwellings bulldozed Thursday after county officials determined they were illegally erected on county park land along Wainiha Bay and Wainiha River.

Tapping into reserves and special funds such as the state's hurricane relief or rainy-day funds to help balance the state budget could contribute to a lowering of Hawai'i's bond rating, Moody's Investors Services said.

Moody's Investors Service lowered its outlook for $4.7 billion in Hawaii general-obligation bonds, saying the state is depleting budget reserves as a tourism slump reduces tax revenue.

Friends and foes of Frank F. Fasi yesterday remembered Honolulu's longest-serving mayor as a savvy politician who fought for the little guy and got things done, often with little regard for conventional practices.

Even as Mayor Hannemann pushes forward with rail transit today he's following in Frank Fasi's steps. Fasi was one of the first supporters of rail more than 40 years ago.

A high-tech, state-of-the-art emergency mobile command unit that cost $700,000 has sat idle for 2 1/2 years after it arrived in Hawaii.

State Rep. Joe Bertram III has declared bankruptcy for a second time, saying he is unable to cover medical expenses from an illness that hospitalized him last year.

The Kenoi Administration wants to sell another Hamakua parcel of land.

Target and Safeway were welcomed with a mixture of gratitude and relief Wednesday as representatives broke ground on the $60 million Makaala Center in Hilo.

The Kaloko Housing Program took incremental steps forward Wednesday, but county officials seem confident the affordable housing project will be serving residents by early 2011.

The Weekly asked each representative: How did you vote in the voice vote on Speaker Say’s motion to postpone House Bill 444? Here’s what they told us.

Casinos coming to Hawaii? Frank Fasi dies, education in a muddle, plastic bag ban bagged, biodiesel for the Big island, more news

Casino operations could take place on Hawaiian Home Lands under a bill that advanced out of the House Hawaiian Affairs Committee yesterday.

Former Honolulu Mayor Frank F. Fasi died last night in his Makiki home at the age of 90.

Two bills that advanced in the state House yesterday would let voters decide if the state Board of Education should be appointed by the governor.

U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie appears to be the favored son of attorneys, while Mayor Mufi Hannemann is the big winner among engineers and heads of companies.

How the University of Hawaii budget fares at the state Capitol is one of several factors that will determine how much tuition could go up at the 10 UH campuses, UH President M.R.C. Greenwood said yesterday after giving a first-ever State of the University speech before a joint session of the Legislature.

Grab those extra blankets - it's cold thanks to those north winds blowing in a big dry air mass after Tuesday's rain.

Too often in Hawaii's history, and today, people building on previously undeveloped land have damaged or destroyed archaeological sites, artifacts and iwi, or bones, said state Rep. Mele Carroll.

By a vote of 24 to 1, the state Senate confirmed former US Attorney Ed Kubo's appointment to be a Circuit Court judge.

Plastic bags don't litter the landscape; people do.

A new biodiesel plant that will produce 2.6 million gallons a year is planned for Keaau.

With one eye firmly trained on public safety, another on protecting local businesses and both hands firmly grasping the steering wheel, the Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday passed an ordinance that will bar drivers from using handheld electronic devices.

The Hawaii County Council is considering impact fees on building permits as an alternative to the county's current reliance on "Fair Share" contributions from developers.

A Hawaii County Council committee heard from about two dozen people Tuesday night who testified that police are ignoring the voter-passed initiative making adult personal use of marijuana the lowest law-enforcement priority.

A Wailuku Elementary School teacher was arrested Tuesday morning after police reported finding crystal methamphetamine in a search of her Kahului residence.

A first grade teacher at Wailuku Elementary School teacher is facing serious drug charges.