Plantations put to use, cooling Waikiki, ed board debated, early kindergarten pau, political debates continue, more Hawaii news

Dirt is flying on fallow plantation lands for the first time in 15 years, as Mayor Billy Kenoi's administration digs out old roads and prepares to lay fencing for an innovative community project. West Hawaii Today.

Two years into the county's legal battle with Molokai Properties over who should manage utilities set up by the now-defunct Molokai Ranch, county officials estimate that the parties have spent well over $1 million in legal fees, which could go even higher if a settlement isn't reached before a planned October trial. Maui News.

Hotel owners in Waikiki are looking at the possibility of using cold sea water to air-condition their buildings in a move that could substantially cut electricity costs and help the tourism industry market the famed resort area as a green destination. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government has turned to a 130-year-old Hawaii sugar grower for help in powering the Navy and weaning the nation off a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Associated Press.

For years, the Molokai branch of the Maui Invasive Species Committee, otherwise known as MoMISC, has battled stubborn invasive species with science and technology. Molokai Dispatch.

Parents, school officials, students, business leaders and even a current school board member used their Sunday morning to urge voters to replace an elected Board of Education with one appointed by Hawaii's governor. Star-Advertiser.

Students, parents, and community leaders of Hawaii's Children First gathered today to urge voters to pass a ballot initiative to get rid of electing members to the Board of Education. KHON2.

The state Department of Education continues its quest to obtain a federal "Race to the Top" school reform grant this week. Associated Press.

A new law will end junior kindergarten in public schools in 2013 but could be the catalyst for the creation of a state-funded universal preschool program. Star-Advertiser.

The fate of several Hawaii schools lies in the hands of Board of Education members. The Board will hear recommendations on Keanae Elementary, on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Leaders of a couple of environmental watchdog groups said this week that they would keep an eye on the U.S. Navy's plans to conduct military readiness training and testing in Hawaiian waters as well as off the coast of Southern California. Maui News.

The dollars rolling into the two Democratic candidates for governor are big. Civil Beat.

If the statewide polls are right, it’s anybody’s guess who is going to represent the Democratic Party against the top Republican challenger in the Nov. 2 general election. Garden Island.

Former Honolulu Mayor and Democratic candidate for Hawai‘i governor Mufi Hannemann says he would start fixing the state’s economy on his first day in office. Garden Island.

The night Bob Jacobson lost his 6th District council seat to Guy Enriques, he had a ready explanation. Tribune-Herald.

Three of the four candidates for Honolulu mayor will debate before business leaders this week. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Transportation (DOT) is holding its second round of statewide public informational meetings to discuss and solicit comments on the fiscally constrained Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for Fiscal Years 2011-14 (+2).  Lahaina News.

A supervisor at Lihue Airport on Kauai is under investigation in an embezzlement case, the latest in a string of problems at the airport. Lihue Airport employees complain lax management at the facility has led to several embarrassing incidents there. KITV.

A year after city officials shutdown one of the entrances to China Walls, the gate is still locked. KITV.

Edward Dawe's home looks directly over Mililani Mauka Recreation Center 7.  The proposed site where Clearwire is hoping to install an 80-foot tall tree-like internet antenna tower, that would provide additional internet service to upper reaches of Mililani Mauka. KHON2.

New flood maps could raise insurance costs, good year for film industry, Senate panel decides on chief justice today, more news from all the islands

New flood insurance rate maps developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency could lead to dramatic cost increases for some property owners on Oahu and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Film Industry expects that 2010 will be a banner year with revenues generated from films and television shows approaching $300 million. KITV.

What would happen to Honolulu International Airport's famous "reef runway" if the ocean rose a few feet in the next century? Civil Beat.

The Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor is among the top 10 aviation attractions around the world. KHON2.

Hawaii billionaires Pierre and Pam Omidyar joined 40 of the world's richest people in a pledge to donate at least half of their fortunes as part of a philanthropists' pact announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser. (Photo by Joi)

Molokai’s only radio station will no longer air local news updates. Molokai Dispatch.

A stinging radio ad by former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann prompted U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to wade into the Hawaii Democratic gubernatorial contest yesterday with a defense of ex-U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie. Associated Press.

Hannemann: Labor King? Civil Beat.

Hawaii's beverage container deposit redemption rate for the fiscal year ending June 30 was 76 percent, down from a record high 79 percent in the previous fiscal year, the state Department of Health said yesterday. Associated Press.

“Ricycling” is not only good for the environment, it helps feed some of Kaua‘i’s hungry residents. Garden Island.

California's Proposition 8 ruling to affect Hawaii's fight over civil unions. KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle plans a "full-court press" for appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as Hawaii's next chief justice after hearing yesterday that the state Senate has serious concerns about her leadership and administrative abilities. Star-Advertiser.

Here at home, it's a big day for Hawaii's chief justice nominee Katherine Leonard. The Senate judiciary committee will vote whether to recommend Leonard to the full Senate, which meets Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Three hundred parasitic wasps were released in Haiku on Tuesday to prey on the invasive nettle caterpillar, whose stings can send some people to the hospital and whose appetite can do massive damage to plants and plant nurseries.Maui News.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares' campaign has cruised to the head of the pack in terms of fundraising, raising substantially more than any challenger's campaign and having the most money available as she approaches the primary election next month. Maui News.

The County of Maui mayor’s ballot has the Friendly Isle all abuzz now that Molokai’s own Patricia Hammond is in the running. Molokai Dispatch.

Incumbent legislators are winning the early campaign fundraising races, mostly with money raised outside their districts. Tribune-Herald.

Don't expect big changes now that Kona Brewing Co. is owned by Craft Brewers Alliance, President Mattson Davis says. West Hawaii Today.

Restaurants across the state are being warned that "fake" health inspectors seeking sensitive information about employers and employees have been reported on Maui and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Public money could be used to fix private roads under a measure a Hawaii County Council committee narrowly passed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Scholars, environmentalists and government officials are due to discuss issues like protecting coral reefs and controlling invasive species at the Hawaii Conservation Conference this week. Associated Press.

A Maui County Council committee voted 7-2 Tuesday to recommend approval of a compromise bill aimed at having condominium owners pay correct property taxes on their units. Maui News.

Wailuku attorney Blaine J. Kobayashi has been appointed to serve as a District Court judge in the 2nd Circuit. Maui News.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has obligated $388,941 for improvement projects and equipment purchases at the National Cemetary of the Pacific in Honolulu. KHON2.

The Department of Education cites budget cuts, deteriorating facilities and decline in attendance as valid reasons to close Maunaloa Elementary School. KITV.

Gays filing lawsuit over civil unions, Big Island courthouses could close, Molokai newspaper opposes developer, Hawaii County targets vets, poor, for tax hikes, Honolulu councilman under criminal investigation wants to be mayor, more Hawaii news

Six gay couples in Hawaii are filing a lawsuit Thursday asking for the same rights as married couples, three weeks after Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a same-sex civil unions measure. Associated Press.

First the veto, now a lawsuit. Two legal rights groups want the issue of same-sex marriage to be decided not by a public vote, but by a judge. Hawaii News Now.

Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Hawaii Foundation today said they will sue Gov. Linda Lingle over her July 6 veto of House Bill 444, which would have allowed Hawaii civil unions. Civil Beat.

Having been together since 2005, Sean Smith and Kale Taylor are like many committed couples -- they want to make things official. Star-Advertiser.

The Judiciary may shut down three of its part-time satellite courthouses on the Big Island temporarily because of a lack of sheriffs to provide security. Star-Advertiser.

Double-digit increases in arrivals and spending last month have made summer hotter for Hawaii tourism, though it still lacks the sizzle it had a few years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Economists hope the worst is over for Hawaii's housing slowdown. KHON2.

The last of Hawaii tax refunds are being mailed this week after they had been delayed because of state government budget shortages. Associated Press.

Councilman Rod Tam -- who's under criminal investigation for using city funds on meals for friends and family -- filed his nomination papers to run for Honolulu Mayor Wednesday. KITV.

The state dedicated a new $2.5 million dock at Keehi Small Boat Harbor Wednesday. KHON2.

The Governor says she's in no rush to sign off on the city's rail project. Wednesday, the city awarded a $5.5 million contract for the design of the West Loch, Waipahu and Leeward Community College stations along Farrington Highway. Hawaii News Now.

Mililani residents joined forces at a neighborhood board meeting Wednesday night, to oppose an affordable housing project in their community. KITV.

The House committees on Housing and Human Services’ joint informational briefing, held July 15, explored solutions–some more controversial than others–to the issue of chronic homelessness in the state. Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii County is looking to scoop up an additional $270,000 in property taxes by targeting 6,000 disabled veterans and poor property owners who don't currently pay the minimum $100 tax. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is receiving $115 million in federal economic stimulus dollars, but you wouldn't know it by the 1,150 jobs that various industries shed on the Big Island so far this year. Tribune-Herald.

Wailuku resident Ken Kekona told officials how his teenage granddaughter nearly died in a crosswalk, and Kula resident Harriet Sibonga and other senior citizens pointed out dangerous places for pedestrians and motorists on Maui. Maui News.

Lava is now entering the ocean in two locations in Kalapana, and a third flow may reach the ocean soon. Star-Advertiser.

This past Saturday night, July 25, I stood alongside a small handful of neighbors and photographers watching Madame Pele’s molten lava consume a beautiful little home, custom-built by my neighbor Gary, complete with beautiful landscaping - tropical flowers, bananas, a little gazebo overlooking the lava fields, ancient ironwood and mango trees - all burning, falling all over the former end of Highway 137 in Kalapana. Big Island Weekly.
The names of the characters may be the same and the backdrop is still Hawaii, but that's where the similarities end between the old and new "Hawaii Five-0," the re invented CBS series that should leave audiences breathless for more. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Star Advertiser is saying good-bye to three longtime employees. KHON2.

Although the county received $1.21 million almost two years ago to retrofit lights at four county parks — Isenberg Park, Vidinha Football Stadium, Hanapepe Stadium and Peter Rayno Park in Hanama‘ulu — the project has yet to commence, according to the County Attorney’s Office. Garden Island.

Stop Molokai Ranch Windmills Petition. Molokai Dispatch.

Volcano consumes Kalapana home, Maui beach widening suspended, gubernatorial candidates mix it up, drought worsens, Heftel Post Office nixed

Lava from Kilauea showed off its unstoppable power of beauty and destruction on Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

An innovative and privately funded beach replenishment project on Stable Road has been suspended early. Maui News.

Unlike open beaches, pocket beaches tend not to wax and wane with the seasons. Building groins - walls extending perpendicularly from the shore into the water - is a way of creating an artificial cove with a pocket beach. Maui News.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie is sending the message to gay activists that they could have to wait four years or longer for civil unions if he is not elected governor. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona leans forward as if he wants to share a secret. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann opened his West Hawaii campaign headquarters Saturday in Kailua-Kona where he committed himself to improving Hawaii's education and economy while reminding area residents of his Big Island connection. West Hawaii Today

Gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie this week announced he has accepted invitations from media outlets offering a series of live debates leading up to the Sept. 18 primary election. Garden Island.

A proposal to rename Makiki Post Office after the late Democratic U.S. Rep. Cecil Heftel has stalled because Heftel's widow objected to the bill's author: U.S. Rep. Charles Djou, a Republican. Star-Advertiser.

Every morning, Tony Williams wakes to the sound of waves crashing on Hawaii's famed Waikiki beaches and has a spectacular view of the Pacific. But he's not paying a cent for his priceless vista. Associated Press.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for billions of dollars in construction projects over the next few decades, ranging from sewer upgrades to undersea power cables. Star-Advertiser.

A new attraction at the Waikiki Aquarium may be small but it's hoping to make a huge impact.KHON2.

Michelle Galimba has been moving her livestock across her 10,000-acre Kuahiwi Ranch to higher elevation in Kau on the Big Island in hopes of finding better pastures during a drought that is causing her business and others hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii  may turn to a surprising source as it deals with a yawning budget shortfall brought on by a poor economy and lower legislative outlays: Mainland and foreign students who can provide a boost to tuition revenue. Civil Beat.

The Kaua‘i County Council Planning Committee, after several deferrals, on Wednesday approved a controversial bill that would allow vacation rental owners to apply for non-conforming use permits. Garden Island.

It's been two and a half years since Dawn K. Gambsky's life ended and she was buried in a shallow grave in her own backyard. Tribune-Herald.

Fewer immigration services will be available starting Monday while Honolulu's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office moves to a new location. Associated Press.

Even in the face of furloughs, two Molokai schools – Maunaloa and Kilohana Elementary – met adequate yearly progress (AYP) benchmarks in math and reading scores this year. Kaunakakai Elementary landed on the cusp, missing its goal by only 1 percent. Molokai Dispatch.

Djou is 'endangered,' candidates talk tech, gubernatorial debates set, hopefuls crowd races, Maui prepares for plastic bag ban, more Hawaii news

Four weeks into Summer and the heat is on.... KHON2.

The three major gubernatorial candidates, seeking to woo an increasingly visible sector of Hawaii's economy, yesterday promised to foster partnerships with the high-tech industry and improve the state's information systems. Associated Press.

Mufi Hannemann, Neil Abercrombie and James "Duke" Aiona traveled to the Plaza Club — "the heart of Honolulu's Wall Street" — on the top floors of Pioneer Plaza Wednesday to share their thoughts on growing Hawaii's high-tech industry. Civil Beat.

Democratic gubernatorial candidates Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann will square off in front of the media and public on Aug. 11, just weeks prior to Hawai‘i’s 2010 primary election. Garden Island.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie has accepted invitations to four television debates and is accusing his rival of attaching conditions that make one of the events more difficult to hold. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Charles Djou has been placed on a list of nine Republican incumbents who are considered endangered by their party. Associated Press.

The state Office of Elections has given the major political parties a chance to find replacements for four candidates who withdrew from state House races, including one Republican candidate on Kauai who deliberately filed and withdrew papers before Tuesday's deadline to buy time for the GOP to field a challenger against a popular Democrat. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Peter Carlisle turned in his letter of resignation Wednesday to the Honolulu City Clerk's office. KITV.

This election season promises no shortage of fireworks, with words already flying between contenders for Mayor about when to take a vote. KHON2.

A flurry of candidate filings may signal a summer of voter discontent, with few Big Island incumbents getting free passes. West Hawaii Today.

A crowded field will vie to challenge Mayor Charmaine Tavares in her bid for re-election this year, with a total of 11 political veterans and newcomers filing to enter the race. Maui News.

Voters can look forward to some spirited races to fill seats being left vacant by departing Maui County Council members this year. Maui News.

Last week, Civil Beat reached out to the three leading candidates for governor and asked each of them to show us evidence of what they do to live sustainably, to see how what they actually do stacks up against their own policy platforms. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilmember Rod Tam has already admitted to making mistakes when he sought reimbursements for meals that had nothing to do with council business. Hawaii News Now.

In less than six months, Maui County's ban on plastic bags will take effect. KHON2.

Hawaii auto sales were up 1.4 percent in the first half of the year compared with the same period last year, and if the trend holds, 2010 will be the first year of growth since 2005. Star-Advertiser.

Madame Pele appears to be putting the brakes on the flow of lava in Kalapana, but it may be a case of too little too late for one home that county Civil Defense evacuated Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Civil Defense was on scene as crews set up barricades late Wednesday evening. Stephen Rose, the supervisor of the Kalapana viewing area told Hawaii News Now that Kilauea's newest lava flow has begun creeping toward a neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

Now that a law has been passed banning the sale of fishponds on state-owned property, citizen groups are looking to take two off the hands of the Department of Transportation. Honolulu Weekly.

A County Council committee delayed action Tuesday on a bill that would discourage the export of fish for aquariums. West Hawaii Today.

The state is moving forward with plans to renovate ferry facilities on Kaunakakai Wharf with a new waiting area, restrooms, sewer main and two water lines to supply water in case of fire, detailed in a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) released last month. Molokai Dispatch.

The talk Wednesday was about moving the homeless, but this time it is with a much needed service. KITV.

A Kapa‘a man said he remains traumatized nearly three weeks after three Kaua‘i Police Department officers delivered him a written warning of trespassing on July 2. Garden Island.

The time that Babe Ruth came to town. Big Island Weekly.

Campaign season officially begins, Honolulu needs a mayor, Honolulu councilman under criminal investigation, Big Island councilman fights arrest, Maui councilman fights residency requirement, Superferry leaked red ink, more Hawaii news

The Hawai‘i Superferry was sailing under a facade of success in the summer of 2008 — boasting of record ridership — but it had already begun to shortchange the state on its monthly fees, according to an Associated Press review of Department of Transportation records. Associated Press.

Political hopefuls made their candidacy official for the state primaries and the general election Tuesday. KITV.

Hawaii's vastly outnumbered Republicans are looking to make a comeback this election year, with GOP candidates running in almost every legislative district of the nation's second-most politically monolithic state. Associated Press.

This year's election is drawing a lot of interest from both parties and today as many as three dozen more people became candidates in the nick of time. KHON2.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said yesterday that his chief executive experience as mayor of the state's largest city would shape his campaign for governor, but his opponent, former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, dismissed that record as a failure. Star-Advertiser.

The feisty race for governor is on. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann Tuesday became candidate Hannemann after he filed to run for Hawaii governor. KITV.

Neil Abercrombie also had harsh words for his democratic challenger in the governor’s race. KHON2.

As Mufi Hannemann leaves one political arena for another, Hawaii News Now asked three observers to grade his job performance as Honolulu's mayor. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii State Office of Elections released the completed list of all candidates for office on the filing deadline, Tuesday July 20. Hawaii News Now.

With a vacancy in the mayor's office created by Mufi Hannemann's resignation to run for governor, the City Council has scheduled a meeting tomorrow to set the date of a special election to fill the final two years of his term. Star-Advertiser.

North Kona Councilman Kelly Greenwell vowed Monday to fight charges after an altercation Saturday with police that Greenwell claimed left him "tethered to a post like a goat while being booked as a criminal." West Hawaii Today.

North Kona Councilman Kelly Greenwell has been arrested and released after getting into a "wrestling match" with a police officer who cited him for speeding Saturday in Kailua-Kona. Tribune-Herald.

The Lanai City hearing in the voter registration appeal against Maui County Council Member Sol Kaho'ohalahala concluded Monday, and now a decision is once again in the hands of the state Board of Registration for Maui County. Maui News.

The Department of the Attorney General  is leading a criminal investigation into mayoral candidate and City Councilman Rod Tam’s spending of city funds, Civil Beat has learned. Civil Beat.

Reading and math learning goals for Hawaii public schools are "mediocre" and "often vague," says a new national report that gives the state a "C" for its educational standards. Star-Advertiser.

Fishermen who use longlines to catch ahi, mahimahi and other fish off Hawaii should use a different kind of hook so they don't accidentally severely injure or kill a rare dolphin species, a federal advisory group said. Associated Press.

A beloved Kauai tradition may be going to the birds. Hawaii News Now.

A former military public affairs officer said she was trying to "inform and entertain" readers when she described Rim of the Pacific naval exercises as "snoozepac" and the "world's largest floating cocktail party" in a separate blog. Star-Advertiser.

The state Supreme Court has affirmed an earlier ruling saying the owners of Turtle Bay Resort must complete a new environmental study if they want to build thousands more hotel rooms on Oahu's North Shore. Associated Press.

A steadily moving lava flow remained about 100 yards from a Kalapana home Monday afternoon, and threatened four others as it continued to make its way eastward toward the ocean. Tribune-Herald.

The Kaua‘i County Council in 2008 budgeted hundreds of thousands of dollars for Kekaha to spend on community improvements in exchange for hosting the island’s only landfill for decades. Garden Island.

A study comparing the cost of trucking garbage to West Hawaii to expanding the Hilo landfill seems to have stalled with the departure of former Environmental Management Director Lono Tyson. West Hawaii Today.

A notice to proceed for design of Phase 2 of the Queen Kaahumanu Highway widening project was given July 7 to Goodfellow Bros. Inc. by the state Department of Transportation, but announced Monday, said Ed Brown, Goodfellow Bros. regional manager. West Hawaii Today.

Because of a staff shortage, trash was not collected as planned in parts of Kihei on Monday. Maui News.

Maui County is invalidating the environmental study for a plant that would treat water diverted from central Maui streams. Associated Press.

There were many people on Monday who wanted to connect to the past when sugar was king in Hawai‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii Centers for Independent Living offers services to adults with permanent disability and now has an office open on Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Plenty of aloha for Obama here, candidate deadline today, public funds go to incumbents, fat keiki, angry homeless, teens shot by police, other Hawaii news

President Barack Obama is popular in the District of Colombia and Hawaii, but he's not doing as well in Wyoming, Utah, Idaho and West Virginia, according to newly released national poll numbers, according to CNN. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday is the last day for interested candidates to file for the primary election. Hawaii News Now.

The filing deadline for two newly vacated state Senate seats has been scheduled for July 30. Associated Press.

The state Campaign Spending Commission has been doling out tens of thousands of dollars to Hawaii County Council candidates, and so far, incumbents have received most of it. Tribune-Herald.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie's congressional campaign committee has given $33,000 to the state Democratic Party and about $21,500 to nonprofit groups. Associated Press.

Maybe Mufi Hannemann was just doing his job. Or maybe all the criticism that he is leaving his job as mayor prematurely to run for governor was getting to him.Civil Beat.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann this week held a series of news conferences designed to promote himself before he steps down to run for governor, and to address his critics. KITV.

Research has shown that there are twice as many overweight keiki in Hawaii compared to children on the mainland. KHON2.

The sentencing hearing for the owners of Aloun Farms on forced-labor charges will continue in September because brothers Alec and Mike Sou refused to admit to committing acts to which they had pleaded guilty in January. Star-Advertiser.

A homeless man, apparently angry at the city's eviction of homeless campers at Maili Point, lit his tent and belongings on fire yesterday as police shut down yet another illegal encampment on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

There are Navy battles online, and we're not talking about video games. Hawaii News Now.

The landowner of a 50-acre parcel in Nanakuli targeted for expansion of the island's only construction and debris landfill is suing the city over the Hannemann administration's plan to use the land for a regional park. Star-Advertiser.

The city unveiled a new software system today, which Mayor Hannemann says will allow city projects to be handled more efficiently, and will improve public safety. KHON2.

Since the ban on drivers using cell phones while behind the wheel went into effect eight weeks ago, 33 Kaua‘i Police Department officers have issued 123 citations, according to KPD Chief Darryl Perry. Garden Island.

The owner of a bottled water company on Kauai says he could go out of business because of legal action taken by Kauai County. Associated Press.

Authorities in the U.S. territory of Guam have turned away a ship after thousands of spiders overflowed from its cargo. Associated Press.

Three teenagers were shot by police, an officer was injured and two people were arrested following reports of gunshots at Punalau Beach, also known as "Windmills," near Honolua Bay early Sunday morning, police said. Maui News.

It was 1 a.m. when it broke its back on a reef off the North Kona coast. West Hawaii Today.

Back by popular demand, its Jon Shirota’s popular play Voices from Okinawa. Hawaii Herald.

Lava is hot, but nothing like Abercrombie-Hannemann matchup, Kenoi takes heat for budget, Kauai struggling with technology, Molokai fights wind turbines, more news from all the islands

Lava oozing from Kilauea Volcano forced the evacuation of a Kalapana couple and their dogs yesterday and closed within 100 yards of their house — one day after the flow crossed the Big Island's Kalapana access road and enveloped the intersection of Highways 130 and 137, sending up a plume of thick, black smoke. Star-Advertiser.

An unusual 3.5-magnitude earthquake shook homes around Oahu yesterday, capping a wild weekend of seismic activity around the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie-Hannemann rivalry promises primary-race pyrotechnics. Associated Press.

To some, the love shown by Mufi Hannemann, Neil Abercrombie and other politicians to the Hawaii Carpenters Union on Saturday may have resembled pandering. Civil Beat.

Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann has clarified his position on the Civil Unions Bill. KHON2.

Just as Hawaii's recession-weary economy is turning the corner on rising unemployment, the state's jobless have been dealt another setback. Star-Advertiser.

The fight to keep wind turbines off Hawaiian homestead lands on Molokai continued on Sunday as homesteaders sought assurance from the Department of Hawaiian Home Land (DHHL) that wind farms would not be built at Mo`omomi and Anahaki in central west Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Mayor Billy Kenoi claims Hawaii County departments are spending 35 percent less than when he took office, but a Tribune-Herald analysis shows otherwise. Tribune-Herald.

The Kaua‘i County Council years ago approved funding to drastically improve Internet accessibility to county meetings and public documents, including posting the minutes, agendas and bills. But it wasn’t until Wednesday that a resolution was introduced to finally establish concrete policies. Garden Island.

A record number 64 medical students were donned with white coats and stethoscopes during a welcoming ceremony at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It's the UH School Medicines Class of 2014. Hawaii News Now.

Many think Manhattan is the most expensive place in America, but according to a survey done by the commercial real estate firm Colliers it costs nearly $2 more to park in Honolulu for a day than in midtown Manhattan. KITV.

Despite bankruptcy, a group from the Honolulu Symphony continues to play. KHON2.

A plan calling for 1,500 homes in a new Olowalu town has had its ardent supporters and equally passionate detractors for five years, and so far the proposed development has won support from the General Plan Advisory Committee and the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

A Koloa-based company which has been bottling spring water from Kahili Mountain since 2003 may be forced to close its doors unless an appeal against the company is lifted, said Kaua‘i Springs owner Jim Satterfield. Garden Island.

A new (and very old) agricultural technique is getting lots of attention these days. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii No. 1 in IOU, locking up the homeless, new candidates, judges, fireworks bans, sewer fees, and more news from all the islands

When state legislators passed a law three years ago calling for the creation of regional `Aha Moku councils to help manage Hawaii’s natural resources, many questioned the logistics of the plan. Molokai Dispatch.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is in the process of revising the rules for uses on conservation lands, and a DLNR spokesperson says it will not look favorably on vacation rentals on such lands. Garden Island.

City wants to involuntarily commit mentally ill homeless people. KHON2.

Currently, Oahu's most severely mentally ill homeless get help only after they've been arrested or they're sick enough to be taken to hospital emergency rooms, but after that, many return to the streets. KITV.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann steps down from his job next week. One of the last things he will ask the city council is to pass two laws aimed at curbing illegal camping on city land. KITV.

Based on Mufi Hannemann's 600,000 Twitter followers, you might guess that half the population of Hawaii is following the mayor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii consumers have racked up the highest credit card debt in the nation, carrying an average of $9,296 per person in the first half of the year. Star-Advertiser

A total ban on consumer fireworks would not stop the problem of illegally imported fireworks overnight, but it could serve as a deterrent and reduce the supply, Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha told City Council members yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

A proposed ban of consumer fireworks on Oahu could become law with just two more votes by the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

Three Hawaii politicians formally became candidates today, filing documents with the state Office of Elections to appear on state primary ballots in September. Associated Press.

Gary being Gary. Honolulu Weekly.

A consent decree requiring renovations of the city's aging sewer system and more than $1 billion in upgrades of Oahu's two main sewage treatment plants is expected to raise sewer rates for Honolulu residents. Star-Advertiser.

After years of litigation over Honolulu’s sewer systems, the city is one step closer to finalizing a landmark settlement with a group of state and federal environmental agencies and nonprofits. Civil Beat.

A former deputy prosecutor has filed a federal lawsuit against the Maui County Department of the Prosecuting Attorney, alleging she was subjected to discrimination, sexual harassment and retaliation before she was fired last year. Maui News.

A fired Maui County deputy prosecutor has filed a federal lawsuit that accuses her former boss and the department of discrimination, retaliation and sexual harassment. Associated Press.

New developments in the HPD scandal over DUI reports. Hawaii News Now.

The wife of state Sen. Fred Hemmings has pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor theft charges stemming from her time as executive director of a nonprofit organization. Associated Press.

Gov. Linda Lingle this week appointed three Honolulu circuit judges, all with prosecutorial backgrounds and two of them women. Star-Advertiser.

Chief Justice Ronald Moon appointed four lawyers yesterday to six-year terms on the Honolulu district court bench. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County taxpayers should save thousands in interest on $60 million in bonds issued Tuesday, thanks to a higher bond rating reaffirmed by the three major rating agencies. West Hawaii Today.

An executive assistant for the mayor appeared Tuesday before a special commission looking into how Hawaii County spent $115 million in federal stimulus money. Tribune-Herald.

Environmentalist and Kekaha resident Diana LaBedz on Monday pulled papers to challenge Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. in the September mayoral primary, intends to file papers, and thinks she can unseat the incumbent, she said. Garden Island.

The Hawai`i coffee industry unites for the 15th year, gathering growers, millers, wholesalers and retailers from across the state for the annual Hawai`i Coffee Association (HCA) Industry Conference. Big Island Weekly.
Every eight minutes, a pedestrian is injured in an accident in the United States and nearly 5,000 pedestrians are killed annually by motor vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. West Hawaii Today.

Wells Fargo Bank, trustee of the mortgage lending trust group that foreclosed on the Makena Resort last year, fended off two additional bidders Tuesday and prevailed - with a $95 million bid - to purchase the 1,800-acre property and the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. Maui News.

A meeting to review and possibly approve the final report of the Citizens Advisory Committee for the Kekaha Host Community Benefits Program is scheduled for July 19. Garden Island.

Two named cyclones building in Pacific, civil union debate continues, various politicians in various trouble, Maui development, Big island road move forward, more

The eastern Pacific is a hot bed of storm activity right now and that's mainly because the ocean is very warm over there. A pair of cyclones are now spinning off the coast of Mexico, Hurricane Celia and Tropical Storm Darby. Hawaii News Now.

The National Weather Service has extended a red flag warning for Leeward areas of the Hawaiian Islands.KHON2..

The Hawaii Business Roundtable clarified yesterday that it has not taken a position on a civil unions bill, responding to internal dissent and under pressure from gay rights advocates for urging Gov. Linda Lingle to veto the measure. Star-Advertiser.

Why the Roundtable Quieted Its Civil Unions Storm. Civil Beat.

The state won't be able to delay future tax refunds quite as long as it did this year, under a bill signed into law on Wednesday. KHON2.

More serious questions came out Wednesday about the state Tax Department’s contract with a Canadian technology company called CGI. KITV.

The Hawaii County Planning Department won a court victory Tuesday that could set a statewide precedent for other counties that miss self-imposed deadlines. West Hawaii Today.

Nearly eight years after taking office, Gov. Linda Lingle is still excited about Hawaii's renewable energy projects. West Hawaii Today.

Charles Djou raised $1.4 million in his special-election victory for Congress in May and had more cash in the closing weeks of the campaign to outspend state Senate President Colleen Hanabusa and former U.S. Rep. Ed Case, his main Democratic opponents. Star-Advertiser.

A recent fundraising trip to Pittsburgh is again causing heartburn for the Democratic guber- natorial campaign of Mayor Mufi Hannemann. Star-Advertiser.

Former Congressman Neil Abercrombie's campaign for governor will pay a $50 fine for filing notice for an April fundraiser in Washington, D.C., several hours late. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Ethics Commission is allowing city councilman Rod Tam to pay thousands of dollars in restitution and fines interest-free over three years, after an ethics probe found he improperly billed the city for hundreds of meals. KITV

A proposed project to control the spread of strawberry guava is expected to receive a finding of no significant impact, according to a draft environmental assessment released today by state officials. West Hawaii Today.

Residents have until July 23 to comment on an Environmental Assessment concerning the release of a natural predator to control  strawberry guava in Hawai‘i, according to a state Department of Land and Natural Resources news release. Garden Island.

After reviewing petitions to list seven species of Hawaiian yellow-faced bees as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that the documents present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing may be warranted, and will initiate a 12-month review of the species' status. Big Island Weekly.

Tired of the loss and damage over the years, residents on Oahu's north shore learned about some potential solutions from a special meeting in Haleiwa on Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

Now that Hawaii County has the authority to pass laws restricting or even banning the use of fireworks, officials are being careful on what steps they will take next. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Maui Planning Commission got the first public look Tuesday at detailed designs for the long-debated - and for many - long-awaited Honua'ula 1,400-unit housing development in South Maui. Maui News.

North Hawaii residents soon will have an easier time registering motor vehicles, and area crime victims will receive more privacy when talking with prosecutors. HHawaii Tribune-Herald.

The Ane Keohokalole Highway took another step forward Tuesday, when a Hawaii County Council committee approved the donation of nine lots and 16 easements from adjoining landowners. West Hawaii Today.

An early-afternoon brush fire caused massive traffic tie-ups Tuesday in Kahului after police closed a section of Hana Highway because of poor visibility caused by smoke and dust. Maui News.

The Heart Center at Hilo Medical Center is currently operating without its full-time cardiologist. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

With an adult day care center opening at Home Pumehana in August, caretakers on Molokai can breathe a sigh of relief. Molokai Dispatch.

Our story last week about the changes in Hawaii’s journalistic landscape–and a note here about how those changes affect readers of the Weekly–brought in a strong response from readers. Honolulu Weekly.

Public safety will not be jeopardized, and the public will be inconvenienced minimally under the Honolulu Police Department's furlough plan set to begin next week, Police Chief Louis Kealoha said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai County officials recently announced a two-day per month furlough plan that will be effective July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Garden Island.

Maui to regulate aquarium trade, Mauna Kea telescope participates in major find, Djou reaching out on taxpayer dime, school calendar set, more communication coming to Molokai, more news

Maui County is on its way to becoming the first county in the state to regulate the collection of reef aquatic life and demand the humane treatment of the animals for both industry professionals and private aquarium owners.

A Maui County Council committee has approved a bill by Councilman Wayne Nishiki to set up an application and permit system to regulate the aquarium fish trade.

A small capsule that landed in South Australia early this week may contain a key to understanding pieces of Earth's early composition. And Mauna Kea's Subaru Telescope played a small part in getting the capsule home

A new 1.8-meter telescope has begun surveying the skies, looking for killer asteroids, the University of Hawaii's Institute for Astronomy announced Wednesday.

Lihu‘e Airport first in state with all-body security scanner

First came the sparks, citizens outraged about plans to develop on the Kakaako shoreline area. They were blasting the consultants as they unveiled possible blueprints, some citizens are upset that some of the consultants the state hired are from the mainland.

Safeway Inc. intends to build eight stores in Hawaii within the next three years, while Walgreens Inc. has as many as nine island projects in the works.

The Department of Education posted its calendar for the 2010-2011 school year Thursday. There are no furloughs and all DOE employees will return August 2.

With little hesitation the Board of Education became one of ten states to support a nationwide effort to use Common Core State Standards in schools.

A $23 billion proposal to help states pay teachers and avoid layoffs faltered last month in Congress. And Democrats have since then been scrambling to find a backup plan.

Rep. Charles Djou said Thursday that videotape paid for by taxpayers dollars was taken off his campaign website as soon as his campaign office was made aware it violated U.S. House rules.

U.S. Rep. Charles Djou is taking advantage of one of the privileges of being in Congress: taxpayer-financed messages back home.

Deja vu. Deja Djou.

Hawaii Reps. Mazie Hirono and Charles Djou did not take part in the grilling of BP Chief Executive Officer Tony Hayward, but they did express their views about the oil spill.

Having just solved a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, state leaders are expecting expenditures to exceed revenues for three more years, the House Finance Committee chairman told a Hilo audience Wednesday.

The state Legislature relied primarily on spending cuts to balance its budget this year, rather than raise taxes or fees.

Following a year of state furloughs, the Kaua‘i County Council approved, with a few exceptions, two-day-per-month furloughs of county employees during the fiscal year beginning July 1

Mobi PCS plans to construct six new cell phone antennas on the roof of Paddlers Inn that will improve service for Molokai customers.

Dennis Moresco doesn't get the opposition to the proposed Ooma development.

The Hawaii Department of Agriculture's Plant Pest Control Branch on Wednesday released tiny parasitic wasps in an effort to control the stinging nettle caterpillar

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

Shortly after arriving on Maui earlier this week, young movie star Zac Efron went for a swim in front of his resort.

Kauai considers new form of government, Hannemann under investigation, Djou blasted for robo-calls, TV stations dispute who is 'undisputed news leader,' more news from all the isles

The Campaign Spending Com- mission says it will launch an in- vest- igation over a Pittsburgh fundraiser held on behalf of Mayor Mufi Hannemann's gubernatorial race.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann defended what was to be a campaign fundraiser in Pittsburgh last week as legitimate and "all done above board," but acknowledged that mistakes in planning "cast a cloud" over the event.

New fireworks in the governor's race, both men are accusing the other of shady fundraising.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann has picked up the endorsement of the Hawaii Hotel & Lodging Association in his campaign for governor.

Hawaii’s newest con- gressman, Re- publican Rep. Charles Djou, was elected in a special election after campaigning for restraint in spending government money. Now he has offended some voters, by using taxpayer money for automated telephone calls that some say sound like campaigning.

The state Ethics Commission voted yesterday to fire Executive Director Daniel Mollway based on an investigative report critical of his work habits and management style.

Kaua‘i voters may be faced with a major decision next election that could have far-reaching implications in how the county is governed.

Is there something in the water here that makes it all but impossible for people with strongly held views to work out their differences?

The line of tired and weary pet owners can stretch out the door at the Honolulu Airport's animal quarantine office, and tempers occasionally grow testy.

In 2003, the Department of Transportation developed a plan to turn Hawaii into a bike friendly state.

The Board of Education is expected to adopt common national standards for Hawaii public schools today as part of a push to standardize what students across the country learn and better compare school performance.

Residential home sales rose 80 percent in May on Kaua‘i compared to last year, but the increase was based on an already “tiny number” in 2009, said University of Hawai‘i Department of Economics Professor Byron Gangnes.

Water rates will go up by as much as 8 percent starting next month for all except commercial farmers and ranchers after a temporary rate hike was approved Tuesday by the Hawaii County Water Board.

A new principal partner and possibly a different landlord won't stop Hu Honua Bioenergy from attempting to resurrect the Pepeekeo power plant, company President Rick McQuain said Tuesday.

Residents here brought new questions to Mayor Billy Kenoi Tuesday night, asking about topics from West Hawaii school impact fees to cross-island garbage hauling.

Mayoral Candidate Chris Hart is known as the “Man with a Plan” – a nickname justified by his extensive resume that includes serving under the Maui County Planning Department for two decades.

Staying true to his earlier pledges, former Maui County Council Member Riki Hokama, who held the Lanai residency seat for five consecutive terms, officially filed as a candidate Tuesday to enter the race and try to get back his old job.

A team of two students from Maui High School took ninth place at the 2010 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills National Final on Tuesday.

Molokai was awarded over $17 million to fund 21 capital improvement projects this year. The wide-ranging list includes repairs to schools, roadways and the island’s water system. 

ABC announced Tuesday it will produce a medical drama for prime-time TV in Hawaii.

Last week’s consolidation of Honolulu’s two morning dailies into a single organization was a loss on many levels, most of them already well-chronicled.

KHON2 News continues to be the undisputed news leader in all local and world newscasts and Hawaii’s television viewers again have chosen KHON2 as the station they prefer for all their news, information and entertainment.

Hawaii News Now: Sunrise is Hawaii's undisputed morning news leader, winning all half-hour periods between 5:00 – 8:00 AM and continuing a strong showing in its second book on KFVE.