Almost 500 homeless moved off Honolulu streets, Maui heart program in place, Ed Case opens Senate campaign HQ, water for Kau, biofuel costly, more Hawaii news

Ed Case Senate campaign kickoff courtesy photo

One year from this week, Ed Case will either be Hawaii Democrats' nominee for the U.S. Senate or, quite possibly, at the end of his political career. Civil Beat.

Ambitions to create a multinational research park on the moon will be discussed in November at a Big Island meeting of scientists, space agency representatives and entrepreneurs. Associated Press.

A series of dives by researchers this summer off Maui’s southern coast has added a bit more knowledge of the graveyard of military wrecks that lies off Hawaii’s shores. Star-Advertiser.

On the eve of a key hearing, the Hawaii State Teachers Association announced that it is filing a formal ethics charge against Governor Neil Abercrombie, Board of Education chair Don Horner and superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi. Hawaii News Now.

While Hawaii's largest public-sector union has a new two-year contract, three others are still seeking deals to replace labor agreements that expired June 30. Tribune-Herald.

The state's Harbor police force has been working without firearms and their usual vehicles since late June. KITV4.

Two contracts for locally-produced biofuels, aimed at supplying a portion of the state’s electricity needs, are under consideration by the Public Utilities Commission, and more are expected. Civil Beat.

More than 445 homeless people moved off of island streets and out of emergency shelters during the span of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's 90-day homeless plan, which began in May and ends today. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie says APEC not related to 90-day homeless plan. KHON2.

Beginning Monday, doctors at Maui Memorial Medical Center will be able to do everything to treat emergency and acute heart disease conditions - except heart transplants, which is a procedure no facility in Hawaii does, according to hospital spokeswoman Carol Clark. Maui News.

At 7:30 on any weekday morning, while many of us are caught in lines of traffic, waves are breaking off Waikiki luring the lucky into the water. Hawaii Public Radio.

Flat-rate taxi fares between HNL, Waikiki being considered. Pacific Business News.

The state Board of Land and Natural Resources on Friday unanimously approved amendments to Hawai‘i Administrative Rules, regulating commercial activities in the waters of Hanalei Bay and River. Garden Island.

An international scientific workshop about a parasitic infection known as rat lungworm disease is to be held in Honolulu. Associated Press.

Landowners would be able to preserve tax breaks on large parcels dedicated for agricultural use, even when portions are rezoned for industrial or commercial use, under a proposal up for a final vote Wednesday before the Honolulu City Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County Council Planning Committee members Tuesday will consider bills seeking classification and zoning changes to allow for the construction of a new development north of Pualani Estates in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is opening six new or improved water spigots islandwide that will provide safe drinking water to thousands of residents relying on water catchment. Tribune-Herald.

U.S. Senate Democrats are charging taxpayers for an all expense paid trip to Hawaii, and that has some taxpayer advocates in the Washington beltway riled up. Hawaii Reporter.

A new downtown Hilo garden and footpath easements to the Pepeekeo shoreline will become Hawaii County's under separate resolutions the County Council is set to consider Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

UPW mulls strike, Hawaii airports filling vacancies, kids don't see dentists, revised Maui wind farm gets nod, Pepeekeo power plant could pollute, Kauai hydroelectric hurts native species, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian monk seal

Hawaiian monk seals and local fishermen haven’t been getting along very well. And fishermen aren’t happy about a proposal to extend a conservation zone around the main Hawaiian islands to further protect the endangered species. Civil Beat.

Board of Land and Natural Resources and others conduct site visit on Mauna Kea in permitting case for Thirty Meter Telescope. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has urged the federal government to take more of the financial responsibility for providing social services and education to Pacific migrants as costs to Hawaii have increased substantially over the past decade. Star-Advertiser.

A complaint the union representing Hawaii's public school teachers filed against the state is getting the attention of other unions. Associated Press.

United Public Workers union authorize a possible strike. KHON2.

FACT CHECK — Abercrombie: State Has Not Met With UPW. Civil Beat.

The state airports division has filled a little more than half of the 203 vacancies it reported at the beginning of the year, so more janitorial and maintenance workers are working to repair and clean up airports statewide. KITV4.

Oral Health America indicates that nearly one in five kids in Hawaii under the age of 9 has never been to a dentist. KITV4.

Some of Hawaii's biggest hospitals have a new program to electronically share patient records to improve patient care. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Ethics Commission has imposed a $650 fine on a member of the city Planning Commission and referred the matter to the Carlisle administration to determine whether further disciplinary action is warranted. Star-Advertiser.

If Thursday's meeting of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's Finance Committee is any indication, HART's interim executive director and the city's transportation services director are no longer in charge of the $5.3 billion needed to construct the rail system. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County Redistricting Commission considers political boundary maps. West Hawaii Today.

The proposed Pepeekeo power plant could be more polluting than both the operator and state regulators claim, a federal agency said after reviewing draft air permit conditions. Tribune-Herald.

Renewable and sustainable don’t necessarily go hand in hand in Kaua‘i’s 100-year legacy of hydroelectric power, according to two biologists on the island. Garden Island.

Plans for Auwahi Energy's major new wind farm at Ulupalakua Ranch have been significantly revised to account for environmental and archaeological impacts and community comments. Maui News.

A ten year old boy has become the talk of the town after he fished a strange looking octopus from the ocean at Heeia Kea Pier. KHON2.

NASA's Web site is showing several opportunities to spot the International Space Station in Hawaii skies over the next few days, weather permitting, of course. Hawaii News Now.

After much talk and secrecy, the Aloha Stadium’s new artificial surface was unveiled Thursday afternoon. Pacific Business News.

Kona, your new community college is moving closer to reality. West Hawaii Today.

State Sen. Ronald Kouchi is hosting two listening sessions to enable senior officials from the Department of Land and Natural Resources to hear the concerns of people on Kauai. Associated Press.

Caregiving Focus of Hawaii Society of Business Professionals. Hawaii Public Radio.

A California lawyer filed a lawsuit in state court this week seeking to review President Obama's long-form birth certificate. Star-Advertiser.

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

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mazie Hirono

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

Ed Case

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abercrombie to sign Native Hawaiian recognition bill Wednesday, Hawaii welcomes Japanese earthquake survivors, Molokai mulls tourism benefits, Kona forests preserved, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian protest (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A 118-year-old deep-rooted obligation to formally recognize Native Hawaiians as “the only indigenous, aboriginal, maoli people of Hawaii” will take a major step forward when Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs Senate Bill 1520 into law on Wednesday, July 6. Molokai News.

Six years ago this month, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, the state's largest industrial employer, barely escaped inclusion on a Pentagon list for possible base closure. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii families welcomed 68 Japanese residents into their homes Monday, providing them respite from the devastation of the earthquake and tsunami of March 11. Star-Advertiser.


More than Half of Lingle Appointees Won't Resign. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teachers are upset not only over the contents of the state's "last, best, final" contract offer, but also with the tactics used to present them, says a union representative with the Hawaii State Teachers Association. Civil Beat.

While many around the nation celebrate America's 235th birthday, Oahu residents are observing the first Fourth of July under the newly imposed fireworks ban. Hawaii News Now.

The fireworks show at the beach park combined with a free concert at Ala Moana shopping center draws a crowd of thousands every year. KITV4.

As people across Hawaii celebrated July 4th on Monday, more than 4,000 families at Schofield Barracks were separated from their loved ones because of deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. KITV4.

For the third straight day, state and federal police were on patrol at Heeia Kea Pier in Kaneohe, checking boats for the proper paperwork and gear even before they hit the water. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents welcomed two members Friday. Pacific Business News.

The demand for parking in Wailuku town is 3,491 spaces, but the amount available is only 2,743 - a deficit of 748 spaces, a parking management study shows. Maui News.

Molokai continues to teeter on the balance between the economic benefits from tourism and the desire to maintain the island’s pristine and undeveloped flavor. Molokai News.

Island School graduated 32 seniors June 11, the largest graduating class in the school’s history since its founding in 1977. Garden Island.

A Wisconsin businesswoman has donated $2 million to establish an endowed deanship at the University of Hawaii- Manoa's Hawaii'inuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge. Associated Press.

More than 10,000 acres of state lands along the South Kona Coast are now protected from development thanks to the work of Hawaii Island's newest senator. Tribune-Herald.

When Hawaii passed a new law with extensive protections to prevent residents from losing their homes, it was hailed as the nation's strongest foreclosure law -- maybe too strong, many warn. Associated Press.

Hawaii teachers consider next move, new laws, new fees in effect today, Kauai explores hydro power, Hawaii County Council fails budget veto override, homeowners pay too much insurance, more news from the islands

rare Hawaii orchid courtesy photo, The Nature Conservancy

More than 30 years of research has led to a major victory in protecting one of Hawaii's rarest plants—a native orchid of the Islands’ high forests and bogs that was down to fewer than 50 known individuals. Civil Beat.

Board members of the newly created entity that's due to oversee the city's planned rail line are to conduct their first meeting. Associated Press.

On Friday, all of the laws listed below will become effective throughout the state of Hawaii. KITV4.

Five percent wage reductions and increased health insurance premiums for Hawaii's 12,700 public school teachers were to be unilaterally implemented today, in an extraordinary move that the state says is necessary under a tight budget. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association was not able to stop the State from implementing a pay cut. KHON2.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has said it is exploring legal options to stop the contract from going into effect. KITV4.

It is summer break but special education teacher Bryantt Bernardo is in his Moanalua Middle School classroom catching up on paperwork. Hawaii News Now.

They are both Japanese-American women in their early 60s, married Buddhists with no children who represent the state of Hawaii 5,000 miles away in the U.S. House of Representatives. Civil Beat.

Hawaii homeowners pay “excessive rates” for insurance, according to state Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii hotels’ occupancy levels dropped during the week ending June 25, but average room rates were higher than last year, according to Smith Travel ResearchbizWatch and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News.

A controversial plan to build 11,750 homes on Ewa farmland was given new life Thursday as a state commission agreed to resume the case after it was stopped nearly two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Developer D.R. Horton-Schuler Division wants to build the $4.6 billion Hoopili Project, that includes nearly 12,000 homes, along with businesses to create jobs.  Officials say they also want to make it sustainable. KHON2.

Dozens of labor advocates, environmentalists, and Oahu small farmers crowded into today’s Land Use Commission meeting regarding D.R. Horton’s proposed Hoopili development in Ewa. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County will reinstate full open-space funding but not prepay certain retirement costs because the County Council fell one vote short Thursday of overriding Mayor Billy Kenoi's budget veto. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's $367.3 million budget goes into effect today the way he proposed it, following the County Council's failure Thursday to override his veto. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has asked the state's largest public-sector labor union to strike a separate deal with Hawaii County, allowing 13 furlough days a year for the next two years. West Hawaii Today.

Just barely making a tight deadline, the Maui County Council Policy Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to move a bill forward that would allow the mayor to negotiate a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency over allegations that injection wells in West Maui violate the Safe Drinking Water Act. Maui News.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources issued a statement Tuesday in support of hydroelectricity and Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s exploration of hydro power development. Garden Island.

A full 2 percent of county property tax revenues will be earmarked for land buys this year, following the withdrawal Thursday of a bill that would have cut it to a minimum of 1 percent. West Hawaii Today.

The Honolulu City Council's new chairman, Ernie Martin, has announced new committee assignments for the council's nine members. Associated Press.

Despite being from Jamaica, Bob Marley has become one of the most influential music figures in our Hawai`i ohana. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii has clean beaches, ag land in peril, Oahu low unemployment brings down state average, Earthjustice to sue Maui over wastewater, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawai‘i’s beaches had the fourth cleanest water in the nation last year, according to an environmental action group’s report released Wednesday. Associated Press.

A national evaluation of two Big Island beaches has found both have a history of exceptional water quality. Tribune-Herald.

Teachers scrambled for news and contacted their union and government leaders Wednesday, two days ahead of the Department of Education's plan to unilaterally impose a 5 percent wage reduction and other contract conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Next week, many Hawaii public workers will receive less take-home pay, but others will see unexpected, if temporary, increases.Hawaii Reporter.

Paycuts and a bigger share of health premium costs are among the changes taking place Friday for most public employees. KHON2.

Two more appointees asked by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to resign say they will not do so. Civil Beat.

Attorneys for Earthjustice announced Wednesday they had filed a notice of intent to sue Maui County over alleged violations of the Clean Water Act at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui News.

The push to go green in Hawaii has reached the State Capitol. Employees are duking it out in the Battle of the Buildings - a national competition for the title of "most energy-efficient" workplace in the country. Hawaii News Now.

While Hawaii ranks low when compared to other states in terms of federal subsidies for farms, dozens of Hawaii farms and ranches have received funding from the federal government over the last 10 years. Hawaii Reporter.

Supporters of preserving Oahu’s ag land are preparing to rally against the proposed Hoopili Subdivision in the Honouliuli ahupuaa on the Ewa plains. The subdivision is being pushed by U.S. housing developer D.R. Horton Company. Honolulu Independent.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has prepared a new plan for managing the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge on Oahu's North Shore over the next 15 years. Associated Press.

A freshman senator's efforts to preserve undeveloped South Kona state property are culminating in a bill signing Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Each year, the military opens the doors to its commissaries and exchanges to local businesses. Pacific Business News.

A contractor who lost a bid to build part of Honolulu's planned rail line has appealed the decision to the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

This is the year, Maui County officials promised, that the Transportation Department will finally begin building proper shelters and benches at Maui Bus stops. Maui News.

Bullying in local schools was the focus of a Mental Health America of Hawai’i workshop. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Woman Files Lawsuit Over Osteoporosis Drug. KITV4.

Hawaii proposed online tax could hurt tech business, Maui showing signs of recovery, Hawaii County property rolls lower, governor signs bills, Merrie Monarch begins, more news

Hawaii hula (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival kicked off in grand fashion Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

NOAA crews have returned from a trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to survey damage from last month's tsunami. KHON2.

Hawaii lawmakers are looking for creative ways to tax online shopping, either by requiring Internet sellers to hand over customer information to the government, or by enrolling in a multistate program in which websites voluntarily collect taxes. Associated Press.

Governor Abercrombie signed eight more bills that were passed out of the 2011 legislature into law on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Six of seven bargaining units of the state's largest public-sector labor union yesterday ratified a new two-year contract that will mean a 5 percent pay cut, an increase in their health care premium payments and an increase in time off. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Education Committee rejected two of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nominees for the University of Hawaii Board of Regents yesterday, making it unlikely that the full Senate will confirm them. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday announced a plan to provide more help to the homeless in Hawaii. KITV4.

With Maui County's economy showing signs of recovery, the administration of Mayor Alan Arakawa wants to provide more money to nonprofit agencies because they "provide a service to the community, often its neediest," said Sandy Baz, the administration's budget director. Maui News.

Hawaii County real property valuations came in about 4 percent less than last year, good news for County Council members fearing losses as high as 10 percent. West Hawaii Today.

A Civil Beat investigation of public financial disclosures shows the real estate values listed by 14 Hawaii lawmakers differed from public assessments. Civil Beat.

City & County of Honolulu Details Rail Bond Financing. Hawaii Reporter.

If you were waiting for crunch time to see how all the powerful talk at the Hawaii State Legislature would translate into the actual definition of the people’s business in 2011, and the balanced budget to pay for it, you’re in luck. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County will honor permits already issued for DW Aina Lea's the Villages at Aina Lea, Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Northwynd Resort Properties Ltd., the owner of Makaha Resort & Golf Club, has sold the resort’s 18-hole golf course to Hawaiian Golf Properties LLC. Pacific Business News

The county Redistricting Commission had barely gotten itself organized Monday before some members started questioning a new county code setting strict rules for its operation. West Hawaii Today.

Residents of the Garden Island celebrated Earth Day this past Friday by working on projects, such as cleaning up beaches and planting trees around the island. Garden Island.

Researchers on a recent trip to the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands helped rescue a Hawaiian monk seal found tangled in marine debris. Associated Press.

On one of the holiest days of the year for Christians, Hilo's faithful flocked to see a "corpse" -- flower that is. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii gas highest in the nation, state workers to get 64 days off, appointed ed board seated, West Hawaii gets new civic center, Hilo sewer leak could go to sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii gas prices (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline hit a nation-leading $4.46 on Thursday, 28 cents higher than second-place California. Associated Press.

With gas prices on Oahu around $4.50 a gallon, the operators of the city's bus system said more people are buying bus passes and taking the bus. KITV4.

Gas prices in Wailuku, Maui reached a new all-time record price on Wednesday, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. KHON2.

House Republicans question amount of paid time off for state workers. Hawaii News Now.

Ratification vote dates have been set for members of the state's largest public worker union to decide on a new contract. KHON2.

Hawaii saw 2,447 initial jobless claims filed during the week ending April 9, down 14.7 percent from the 2,868 claims filed during the same week last year, according to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. Pacific Business News

McDonald's restaurants are looking to fill 1,000 jobs in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Two of Hawaii’s largest hotel brands, Hilton and Starwood, are likely to host three of the top countries at the 2011 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in November, and other hotels cleared for the high-level international event are in the final stages of negotiations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s health disparities and gaps in care need community collaboration to help residents make healthier choices and to increase longevity among the state’s neediest population, according to a report that will be released today.Star-Advertiser.

In an unusual display of bipartisan acclaim, nine new members of the board of education were confirmed by the state senate Thursday and were to take office immediately. KITV4.

The State Senate approved Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s nominees for Hawaii’s Board of Education on Thursday, Hawaii Independent.

Representatives of more than 50 social service agencies rallied at the state Capitol yesterday to urge lawmakers to restore proposed cuts to human services programs. Star-Advertiser.

PHOCUSED gathered its members and supporters — some with walkers, some in wheelchairs — Thursday in the Rotunda, most wearing green, all fighting to protect their share of the haupia. Civil Beat.

Citizens concerned with Hawaii Legislature’s plan to hike their taxes will hold “tea parties” across the state on Friday, April 15. Hawaii Reporter.

County officials and former elected officials recalled the long process it took to bring the West Hawaii County Civic Center to fruition Thursday as they formally dedicated the new facility. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County may have to release raw sewage into Hilo Bay in order to fix a sewer pipe found leaking Saturday, its Department of Environmental Management announced Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Now that the county's land fund is back in the budget, Kohala Councilman Pete Hoffmann wants to expand the list of eligible properties and give the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Commission more power to set priorities. West Hawaii Today.

A Hawaii Community College chancellor search committee has named four finalists for the position. Garden Island.

Three new cases of dengue fever are suspected in Hana, along with a possible case in Haliimaile and an additional two or three Upcountry, according to health officials. Maui News.

Sparks were flying Thursday morning between County Council members during a heated discussion at the Nawiliwili Council Chambers. Garden Island.

The Honolulu medical examiner's office says three of the victims in an underground fireworks blast last week suffered carbon monoxide inhalation before dying.Associated Press.

Obama buddy nabbed in Honolulu prostitution sting, HGEA agrees to 5% pay cut, crowds oppose tax hikes, bag bans enforced on Maui, Kauai, Big Island moving $56M project list, more news

Hawaii fisherman (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Researchers Predict Tsunami Debris from Japan to Twice Hit Hawaii Shores. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the Hawaii Government Employees Association, the state’s largest public-sector labor union, announced a tentative two-year contract agreement yesterday that includes a 5 percent pay cut for public workers. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced that the state has reached a tentative agreement with Hawaii's largest public worker union. Hawaii News Now.

The state and counties reached a tentative contract with Hawaii's largest union, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's office announced on Wednesday. KITV4.

The plan raises pay above current levels, a contract Honolulu's mayor did not support. KHON2.

Not so fast, governor. That’s the message Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle issued shortly after Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced that the state and counties have agreed to a new contract with the state’s largest government workers union. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Government Employees Association, the state’s largest public workers union, has reached an agreement with state and county officials on a new contract that ends furloughs but calls for public employees to take a 5 percent pay cut and pay more upfront for their health benefits. Pacific Business News

Nonbinding resolutions passed by the Hawaii County Council on Wednesday seek more flexibility in negotiating with the state's public-sector unions. West Hawaii Today.

A hearing on several different tax increase proposals attracted scores of people to a hearing in the state Capitol auditorium on Wednesday. KITV4.

The majority of testifiers told the Senate Ways and Means committee raising the general excise tax one percent is not the way to go. Hawaii News Now.

The state’s most powerful business interests appealed to state senators yesterday not to raise the general excise tax or temporarily suspend tax exemptions to balance the budget, while labor unions and social service providers said the tax options are preferable to more spending cuts to state programs. Star-Advertiser.

Five of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nine nominees to the new appointed Hawaii State Board of Education cruised through their first Senate Education Committee hearing Wednesday. Civil Beat.

This current session of the Hawai’i legislature, so far, has not borne much good news for those who want stronger regulation of genetically modified food. Big Island Weekly.

A regular Hawaii golfing buddy and Punahou School friend of President Barack Obama was among four people arrested Monday night during a prostitution sting operation in Kakaako by Honolulu police. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Police Department confirmed that a close friend of President Barack Obama was arrested Monday in connection with a prostitution sting case. KITV4.

The Kaua‘i County Council in a 5-1 vote Wednesday shot down amendments that would have created certain exemptions in the county’s almost 3-month-old plastic bag ban. Garden Island.

Bag ban violations under investigation. Maui News.

The Hawaii County Council on Wednesday unanimously approved a list of 14 projects to be funded through a $56 million bond issue before postponing the bill until its April 20 meeting to comply with state Sunshine Laws. West Hawaii Today.

The stalemate between democrats and republicans over the remaining six months of the 2011 federal budget could result in all eight of Hawaii’s national parks being closed to the public. KHON2.

Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald has appointed four Honolulu lawyers to six-year terms as Honolulu District Court judges, the state Judiciary announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Island music hit a sour note Wednesday when trustees of the Recording Academy announced they are dropping the category of Best Hawaiian Music Album from the Grammy Awards. Hawaii News Now.

Health workers are investigating two suspected cases of dengue fever in East Maui, the state announced today. Maui News.

Officials at Disney Cruise Line say they'll be sending one of their cruise ships to Hawaii for the first time next year. Associated Press.

West Hawaii real estate agents are seeing positive signs in the Kona market, particularly as sales activity increases compared with the past few years. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council put a stop to the county's sale of Hamakua lands, and at the same time, invited the public to submit proposals to lease the property. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii governor reassures unions, shipping charges hiked, Sheraton sold, Hawaiian business boom, school board picks face Senate vetting, taxes, taxes and more

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Homeless are on the move again after a recent sweep in Kakaako. Hawaii News Now.

The number of companies owned by Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders increased at a faster rate here and nationally than business growth overall from 2002 to 2007, and small-business advocates said yesterday there’s reason to believe they continue to thrive despite the down economy. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of union workers rallied at the state capitol Monday, some wielding signs that called into question the attack on labor rights across the country. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie had a message for the members of more than 20 unions who filled the state Capitol courtyard yesterday: Union support is in the governor’s blood. Star-Advertiser.

Labor union members cheered and chanted Monday at the Hawai‘i Capitol against cuts in government that would come out of their pockets. Associated Press.

More than 500 union workers gathered in the state Capitol rotunda this afternoon to express support for collective bargaining here and on the Mainland. Hawaii Reporter.

Hundreds gathered today at the Hawaii State Capitol to rally for union solidarity and to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was murdered 43 years ago today in Memphis, Tennessee, where he was speaking on behalf of a group of workers seeking to unionize. Hawaii Independent.

On Wednesday, Hawaii lawmakers will hear a measure to modify the state's excise tax. KITV4.

Taxing retiree pensions is being debated at the capitol. Hawaii News Now.

One after another local restaurant owners, liquor distributors, and employees of companies that sell or distribute alcohol testified at a House Finance Committee hearing against increasing the state tax on alcohol. Hawaii News Now.

Treading into politically sensitive territory, state Senate Democrats are asking the public to choose between raising the general excise tax or temporarily suspending a tax exemption on certain business activities to help balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii senators are proposing an increase to the state's broadest tax, and they'll discuss it during a public hearing Wednesday. Associated Press.

Lawmakers heard testimony today from residents who want to stop prostitution in areas frequented by children and take it one step further … by targeting sex-trade operators and customers. Hawaii Public Radio.

A new day for accountability in Hawaii schools begins as early as this week, when Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie's nine nominees to the state's first appointed Board of Education in 45 years head into their confirmation hearings.Civil Beat.

The Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort and Spa has been sold. West Hawaii Today.

Courthouse in Wailuku needs fixing. Maui News.

Both Horizon Lines Inc. and Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines will raise their fuel surcharges for specific routes at the beginning of May. Pacific Business News

After a series of natural disasters that hit Japan recently, the bosses at the Hawaii Tourism Authority have hinted for a possible cut in the Hawaii air capacity for the second quarter after the tourism was adversely affected. Top News.

Wailuku District Court Judge Rhonda Lai Loo was appointed Monday to replace retiring 2nd Circuit Judge Joel August, Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced. Maui News.

Hawaii residents applied for a record number of permits to buy guns last year and registered a near-record number of firearms, while the islands continued to enjoy the lowest rate of gun-related deaths in the country. Star-Advertiser.

Attorneys for the state Land Use Commission now have through April 25 to provide commission records in response to an appeal filed by Ooma Beachside Village. West Hawaii Today.

Members of Hawaii’s second-largest credit union voted two new faces onto its volunteer board of directors and ousted the chairwoman, reflecting what many said was a need to change the ways of the old board, whose leadership recently came under fire. Star-Advertiser.

Dr. Michael Chun says his retirement from the helm of the Kapalama campus has been discussed in internally for a couple of years -- common of long lead times for transitions at schools the size of Kamehameha. KHON2.

Dengue fever in Pearl City, Big Island gets big bus, tsunami has a price tag, Honolulu councilman has transit conflict, hard to fire state workers, budget hole deepens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

National Park Service firefighters have spent the week trying to prevent a wildfire ignited by Kilauea volcano from spreading through a protected rain forest inhabited by endangered Hawaiian plants and animals. Star-Advertiser.

Four people who live in the same Pearl City neighborhood are the first known Hawaii cases of locally contracted dengue fever since a 2001 outbreak in which 153 people were infected with the mosquito-borne viral illness, health officials announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Data from the March 11 tsunami has given scientists more confidence in research predicting what coastal land around Hawaii will be inundated by tsunamis in the future.Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii disaster response officials are estimating the state suffered damages exceeding $30 million during this month's tsunami, a figure that could lead to the federal government providing money for repairs. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is hoping to get federal aid for some of the $30.6 million of damages that occurred to Hawaii homes, businesses and property as a tsunami swept through the state on March 11. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Thursday formally requested an Administrative Disaster Declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration to help Hawai‘i Island homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits affected by the tsunami that swept across the state on March 11, states a release from the governor’s office. Associated Press.

A 200-pound sea turtle was rescued near Kmart, and reef fish were spotted swimming in a pond at a Kahului parking lot, days after the Japan tsunami hit Maui earlier this month. Maui News.

Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency had yet to identify the radiation that arrived here Monday from Japan, a state health official said yesterday he expects the isotopes that have been detected on the West Coast to be seen in Hawaii, and in similarly low levels. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels were three-fourths full during the week ending March 19, and average room rates were generally higher compared to a year ago, according to Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Department of Transportation will subsidize air service to and from Kalauapa, and will select an air carrier to service the remote community following a competitive bid process, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Senator Daniel K. Akaka and Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono announced today. Maui News.

The Abercrombie administration, not waiting for the state Council on Revenues to update its forecast, has put the projected two-year budget deficit at $1.3 billion. Star-Advertiser.

The state's top budget official has raised his estimate of the budget hole lawmakers will have to fill: The total shortfall is now $1.3 billion — more than one-third larger than previous estimates. Civil Beat.

Gambling seemed all but dead at the legislature this session. But the odds are suddenly better that some form of poker could get to the Governor’s desk. Hawaii Public Radio.

It's as difficult to fire someone from Hawaii state government as it is from the federal government, Civil Beat has learned. Civil Beat.

Hawaii senators and the state Department of Education are pushing a bill that delays a requirement for state schools to have a full 180-instructional day year until 2014. Associated Press.

Honolulu City Council Chairman Nestor Garcia told KITV4 News Thursday that he will begin officially declaring that he has a conflict of interest on the rail transit issue when it comes up for votes in the council. KITV4.

Hawaii County's new double-decker bus has arrived, and county staff is already reporting problems navigating the 14-foot-tall monstrosity around the Mass Transit Department's baseyard in Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

The Honolulu Police Department said it's seeing far fewer people applying to be police officers compared to the last time it accepted online applications in the fall. As a result, H.P.D. will extend the application period for another week. KITV4.

Cash-strapped Hawaii County plans to save $40,000 a year by taking bread literally from the mouths of its workers.Tribune-Herald.

On Thursday the first commercial wind project on Oahu was dedicated in Kahuku on the island’s North Shore, making renewable energy a reality. KHON2.

Aina Lea developers are hoping the third time might be the charm for their proposed 1,060-acre South Kohala residential and commercial development proposal. West Hawaii Today.

Voter turnout for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s 2011 board of directors election was lower this year than last year despite its continued efforts to expand the methods in which voters could cast a ballot. Garden Island.