Molokai tour boat truce reached, Hawaii teachers take second jobs, Big Island rents drop, $10.7M for homeless, Honolulu scrambles after hospital shutdown, UH picks Norm Chow as new football coach, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Molokai blockade courtesy photo

Molokai protesters and the operator of American Safari Cruises have agreed to a truce that will allow the tour boat company to resume its weekly visits to Molokai next month. Star-Advertiser.

American Safari Cruises announced Tuesday that an agreement has been reached between the company, state and federal authorities and local groups so that the Safari Explorer will return to Molokai in January. Star-Advertiser.

American Safari Cruises plans to resume regularly scheduled visits to Molokai on January 21, 2011. Maui Now.

U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan Tuesday awarded $10.7 million to renew funding to Hawaii homeless programs. KHON2.

Two-thirds of Hawaii public school teachers who responded to a recent union poll said they hold one or more outside jobs, and 41 percent of those earning supplemental incomes said they started working another job in the last one to three years. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii legislators are planning a complete overhaul of the state’s charter school system in the wake of “glaring concerns” about lack of accountability and even possible fraud at some schools. Hawaii Reporter.

Inouye Still Brings Home The Bacon. Half a billion dollars going to military, APEC costs, East-West Center. Civil Beat.

Norm Chow is poised to become the next University of Hawaii head football coach -- 16 years, two Heisman Trophy winners and two national titles after losing his first bid for the position. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s version of the Supplemental Budget for Fiscal Year 2013, submitted yesterday, requires an additional $35 million in general funds—overall changes included an increase of $119.9 million in spending in some areas and $85.9 million in savings in others. Hawaii Independent.

The Keck Observatory was involved in what its director called a historic moment recently, helping confirm the discovery of two Earth-sized planets.  West Hawaii Today.

State roundup for Dec. 21. Associated Press.

Oahu

Police-Business Deal Raises Ethical Questions. Civil Beat.

About 1200 people are waiting for the outcome of a lawsuit determining their future living conditions. Mayor Wright Homes is the second complex to draw attention to public housing standards in the past several years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Medical Centers, which is closing the former St. Francis Medical Centers in Liliha and Ewa over the next few weeks, operates the only organ transplant center in the Pacific. The Transplant Institute of the Pacific shut down on Friday when HMC's Liliha hospital stopped admitting patients. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations will provide Rapid Response services to employees at both Hawaii Medical Center worksites in Liliha and Ewa after the company announced last Friday it is closing. KITV4.

After the sudden closure of Hawaii’s only organ transplant hospital at Hawaii Medical Center East in Liliha, The Queen’s Medical Center is racing against the clock to quickly certify a new program. KHON2.

A non-profit that describes itself as the world's largest religious civil liberties legal organization is getting involved in a discrimination lawsuit filed on Oahu Monday by a lesbian couple. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mortgage brokers Welton Kalani and Stephen Balino have been found guilty on numerous counts of mortgage fraud and money laundering, the U.S. Department of Justice reported Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The Honolulu Fire Department says Wednesday, December 21 is the last day to get firecracker permits on Oahu. KITV4.

Hawaii

A newly released study shows that monthly residential rents are decreasing on the Big Island, while the rest of the state is posting increases. Tribune-Herald.

Big Island residents are in for a sight when several massive storage tanks for the new Big Island Biodiesel refinery are transported from Hilo to Keeau on Wednesday. KHON2.

Kona Community Hospital is actively recruiting a cardiologist, CEO Jay Kreuzer said this week. West Hawaii Today.

Residents in four Big Island communities may soon have access to computers and printers at County Council offices, thanks to a resolution forwarded Tuesday by the council's Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island County Council to Vote on Plastic Bag Ban, Civil Beat.

Maui

About 40 nisei veterans traveled to Oahu this past weekend to take part in ceremonies honoring them for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal for their service during World War II with the 100th Battalion/442nd Regimental Combat Team and the Military Intelligence Services. Maui News.

Kauai

Kadomatsu, one of the more familiar New Year’s decorations, are now on sale at the Hawai‘i Government Employees Association offices on Aikahi Street in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

The holiday spirit caught up with the staff at the Courtyard by Marriott at Coconut Beach Thursday night. Garden Island.

Romney criticizes Obama Hawaii vacation, school bus pricing probe widens, WWII vets returning to Pearl Harbor, state gets high grade, Hawaii County low grade, for website transparency, mixed reaction to UH coach McMackin's departure, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

University of Hawaii Greg McMackin AP photo via Yahoo News

Greg McMackin's four-year tenure as the University of Hawaii's head football coach came to an emotional end Monday when he accepted a retirement offer. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii head football coach Greg McMackin has stepped down and will waive nearly half of his $1.1 million employment contract, he announced this afternoon. Hawaii Reporter.

Despite the University of Hawaii’s football team’s losing season, an apology for a gay slur during a 2009 press conference and the recent anonymous point shaving accusation, there are University of Hawaii students who stand by coach Greg McMackin. KITV4.

Despite his shortcomings on the gridiron, which included a 29-25 overall record and only one winning season in four years, University of Hawaii head football coach Greg McMackin is being hailed as a game changer when it comes to academic success. KHON2.

To rein in skyrocketing school bus costs, state Department of Education officials are looking at a host of options -- from cutting routes to holding on longer to older school buses -- but stressed there is no single solution short of eliminating bus service altogether. Star-Advertiser.

For the last four years, Hawaii taxpayers have paid whatever price school bus contractors asked of the Department of Education. Civil Beat.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration didn't adequately inform the public about a proposal to widen protections for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal or give them enough time to comment, according to former Hawaii governor and U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle. Civil Beat.

Overnight mail delivery in Hawaii would be eliminated and first-class mail would take one day longer to be delivered under changes proposed by the U.S. Postal Service on Monday. Pacific Business News.

Researchers in Hawai`i are looking at opportunities to increase the state’s independence with regard to both energy and food. If biofuel and aquacutlure researchers are able to work together quickly, they could achieve benefits for people, the economy and life in the ocean. Hawaii Public Radio.

At this time of the year, the Internal Revenue Service is not looking to be Scrooge, it wants to be Santa and return more than $153 million to taxpayers — more than $700,000 to Hawaii residents alone. Star-Advertiser.

Presidential candidate Mitt Romney is attacking President Barack Obama's plans to come to his home state over Christmas. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Two dozen men -- all of them Pearl Harbor survivors from across the country -- traveled to Oahu this week to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack that launched the United States into World War Two. KITV4.

Police Maj. Carlton Nishimura received about $6,000 a month from the operator of an illegal gambling room on Keeaumoku Street from April 2004 through March 2006 to protect the operation, and used the money to support his own gambling activities, the FBI said in court records a federal judge unsealed last week. Star-Advertiser.

An aging Marine Corps CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter crashed March 29 in Kaneohe Bay as a result of a "catastrophic mechanical failure," a portion of the official investigation concluded. Star-Advertiser.

The Korean developer of the Hale Ka Lae luxury condominium project in Hawaii Kai has put construction on hold indefinitely because of “financial constraints from the weakening global economy.” Pacific Business News.

Watch out for injured or disoriented native seabirds, especially in Windward Oahu. Wildlife experts are asking for help rescuing native Wedge-tailed shearwaters. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Astronomers using the Gemini North telescope on Mauna Kea have found what they say are the two largest black holes ever measured in Earth's "cosmological neighborhood." West Hawaii Today.

Two more Big Island residents have announced their intentions to run for County Council next year. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County government has stripped the meeting notices from its online calendar, even as a national group gives the county a C-minus on website transparency. West Hawaii Today.

Organizers of the Laupahoehoe charter school have asked the Hawaii Board of Education to once again overrule the state's charter school advisory body, this time over a disagreement surrounding the timing of elections of permanent school board members. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa's television call-in show "Your County with Mayor Arakawa" will be shown at 7 p.m. Wednesday on Akaku Channel 53. Maui News.

State Office of Hawaiian Affairs officials presented a proposed settlement to Native Hawaiians on Friday night in which the agency would receive $200 million in Honolulu real estate for revenue generated on Hawaiian monarchy lands. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council on Thursday passed the 2012 Hawai‘i State Association of Counties Legislative Package, a collection of 14 state proposals to be considered by all four counties’ councils. Garden Island.

The County Council Chairman, a County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and a former Salary Commissioner addressed matters of budget protocol to the County Salary Commission at its  Dec. 2 meeting. Garden Island.

Not all members of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative are accepting of the co-op’s plan to replace ratepayers’ existing electricity meters with smart meters, which will transmit real-time usage information to the utility wirelessly. Garden Island.

Schools face overhaul, UH coach McMackin's future in doubt, Pearl Harbor 70th nears, Molokai still fighting cruise yacht, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Attack on Pearl Harbor historical photo

Pearl Harbor salute at year 70. As WWII vet numbers dwindle, preservation of their legacy shifts to newer generations. Star-Advertiser.

The genealogy website Ancestry.com is offering free access to its World War II records through Wednesday. Associated Press.

A first-of-its-kind meeting was held Saturday morning, to map out the strategic plan for the future of Hawaii's public schools. KITV4.

An overhaul is on the horizon for Hawaii's charter school system, which may include stronger accountability, performance contracts and more agencies through which to gain a charter. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i’s Department of Education is about to be restructured, with a clearer division between academics and operations, and more decision-making by education leaders at the local level. Civil Beat.

President Obama and the first family are scheduled to spend Christmas and New Year's in Hawaii again this year. Hawaii News Now.

Five months after one of its members stepped down, Gov. Neil Abercrombie has yet to fill a vacancy on a seven-member panel charged with administering the State Water Code. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines will interview more than 2,200 for 275 jobs. Pacific Business News.

Environmentally conscious travelers have new a new rental car option in Hawai`i. Hawaii Public Radio.

More than $90,000 – that is how much University of Hawaii head football coach Greg McMackin makes per month on his current contract – or a little less than that per game. Hawaii Reporter.

Warriors Head Coach Greg McMackin, University of Hawaii Manoa Chancellor Virginia Hinshaw, and University of Hawaii Athletics Director Jim Donovan, met for approximately 90-minutes Sunday night, following the football team's annual awards banquet at the Sheraton Waikiki hotel. KITV4.

Oahu
The state has released a draft request for proposals to build a residential tower in Kakaako that would rise significantly higher than any existing structure in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Restaurant stands out with its 'no serve' list. Star-Advertiser.

The city is considering a batch of engineering changes to the $5.17 billion Honolulu rail project, including a proposal to reduce the size of the stations and the length of the trains that would operate on the elevated rail system. Star-Advertiser.

Marina proposal at Sand Island is meeting some opposition. KHON2.

Hawaii

County Council members will consider a package of 14 proposals to take to the state Legislature at Wednesday's County Council meeting in Hilo. West Hawaii Today.

For the first time, select Hawaii County firefighters are to receive intensive training designed to keep them safe while responding to meth labs. Tribune-Herald.

Separate proposals to allocate millions of taxpayers' dollars for maintaining Hawaii County recreational facilities will appear before the County Council when lawmakers meet Wednesday in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

In the early 1980s, Jerry Kremkow took a big gamble -- risking everything he had on his belief that he would find good water far below Mauna Kea ranch land. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Unfamiliar faces on the island may make it feel like newcomers are behind Maui's 21 percent population growth over the past decade. Maui News.

Around 43 percent of Makawao residents spend more than half of their income on rent. Maui News.

The Maui County Council voted unanimously Friday to extend its own deadline to pass the Maui Island Plan until Aug. 3. Maui News.

Kauai

The sea of lights were turned on formally Friday evening during the Festival of Lights ceremony at the Historic County Building. Garden Island.

Molokai

American Safari Cruises (ASC) owner Dan Blanchard announced yesterday that the Safari Explorer yacht will not dock on Molokai as scheduled this weekend. The cancellation followed a community meeting Wednesday night, which was attended by over 300 residents. Molokai Dispatch.

Native Hawaiians increase, union claims airport mismanagement, Abercrombie fires Aloha Stadium board, Hawaii County to evict native tenants, feds look again at monk seal, honu turtle, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian fisherman (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The population of Native Hawaiians in Hawaii jumped by more than one-fifth over the last decade, continuing a resurgence in the once-dwindling numbers of indigenous people in the state, according to new U.S. Census information. Associated Press.

Hawaii County and a landowner trying to sell the county pristine Ka'u oceanfront property have been granted preliminary authority to remove a group of Native Hawaiians living there. West Hawaii Today.

New figures from 2010 U.S. Census show that Filipinos and part-Filipinos now make up the second-largest racial group in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Members of the Aloha Stadium Authority said they were stunned to be asked for their resignations in letters this week from Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie is not shying away from his comments last week that paying $4-million to the NFL for future Pro Bowl games is out of whack with the state's priorities. KHON2.

I told you so. That's what Hawaii foreclosure attorneys were probably thinking after the news broke that mortgage giant Fannie Mae said it was converting all of its non-judicial foreclosures into judicial foreclosures, essentially skirting Hawaii's new foreclosure law. Civil Beat.

Certain tax exemptions were previously put in place to de-pyramid or prevent the piling on of GE tax on top of GE tax along the supply chain in things like shipping, construction subcontractors and certain airline costs. That's changing this summer. KHON2.

Mismanagement, inadequate equipment and a staffing shortage are to blame for the actions of dozens of Transportation Security Administration employees at Honolulu International Airport who are being fired for improper bag screening, labor union officials said. Associated Press.

State officials are discontinuing a program that helps low-income seniors pay for Medicare prescriptions. Associated Press.

Kaua‘i’s first woman prosecutor has announced her intent to seek reelection in 2012. Garden Island.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's veto of the amended operating budget has set up a potential showdown between his administration and the County Council, two weeks before the start of the next fiscal year. Tribune-Herald.

Obama administration officials visited Hawaii on Thursday to hear opinions on how it should shape a new national policy on oceans. Associated Press.

The Hawaiian Green Turtle, or Honu, has recovered so well since being classified as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act in 1978 that its federal protection may be removed. Hawaii News Now.

Due to the rapid decrease in the Hawaiian monk seal population, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries Service has proposed to revise the critical habitat area for monk seals, and is inviting public comment. Molokai Dispatch.

The path to a sustainable food future for Hawai`i involves many things, including an economically viable plan, government and public support, and a fresh perspective. But a key concern for farmers, some say even more so than land, is water. Hawaii Independent.

Military Spouses Get Help with Education and Employment. Hawaii Public Radio.

Global Horizon CEO Mordechai Orian: I am looking forward to my trial. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Telcom plans to close its five retail stores statewide and has notified 103 employees that their positions will be eliminated as part of what the company calls a "re-alignment." KITV4.

Hawaii hotels saw occupancy levels dip during the week ending June 11. Even so, average room rates still were higher than a year ago, according to Smith Travel ResearchbizWatch and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News.

Looking for more sources of revenue through additional lease space, landowner Kamehameha Schools hopes to "revitalize" a block of historic Haleiwa Town that is home to the popular Matsumoto and Aoki shave ice stores — a change prompting some businesses there to rethink their future. Star-Advertiser.

Safeway will be anchor tenant of the Maui Lani Center, across Kaahumanu Avenue from Baldwin High School, the largest grocery retailer in North America announced Wednesday. Maui News.

Hawaii 'canoe districts' sunk, Abercrombie disses Pro Bowl, state seeks nonprofits' assets, Head Start a go, direct flights to Hilo celebrated, Hanabusa mulls Senate, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Kamehameha statue draping in Hilo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Lei draping ceremonies are due to be held in Hilo and Honolulu on Kamehameha Day, while most government offices are scheduled to be closed. Associated Press.

Hawaii's island counties will continue being represented by lawmakers who live there, according to Thursday's vote preventing districts from crossing from island to island. Associated Press.

Hawaii's reapportionment commission should not allow multimember state House or Senate districts, nor should the state allow the return of "canoe districts." West Hawaii Today.

Members of the Maui County Reapportionment Advisory Council unanimously recommended Tuesday not to count nonresident military personnel and their dependents, convicted felons in custody and students living away from home when voting districts are redrawn this year. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie threw into question the future of the state's 32-year partnership with the Pro Bowl on Thursday, sharply questioning the $4 million the state annually pays the NFL to hold its popular all-star game here. Star-Advertiser.

The governor is plain wrong when he says civil unions would generate more money in a weekend than the state gets from the Pro Bowl. Civil Beat.

The State Campaign Spending Commission has fined two Hawaii lawmakers.Hawaii News Now.

The state attorney general’s office wants to know whether any of the 1,528 Hawaii groups that lost their federal tax-exempt, nonprofit status this week have assets that could be redistributed to other nonprofit organizations with similar goals. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday introduced the woman he picked to head up the early education of Hawaii's children. KITV4.

The State’s Chief Executive underscored his commitment to Hawai’i’s young children today. He announced the appointment of a cabinet-level official to plan and implement a system for keiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hilo's newest pipeline to the mainland opened with great fanfare Thursday as Continental/United Airlines Flight 281 from Los Angeles arrived at 7:31 p.m. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Thursday announced his approval of the $269 million budget for Fiscal Year 2012, despite criticizing the final version approved May 25 by the Kaua‘i County Council. Garden Island.

Oahu beat the Neighbor Islands last year for the amount of solar energy per customer installed on Hawaii’s electric grids in 2010, according to a new study by the Solar Electric Power Association, a Washington, D.C., nonprofit dedicated to helping utilities integrate solar power into their energy portfolios. Pacific Business News

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa is assessing her grass-roots support and fundraising ability and will decide by August whether to enter the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii's School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene is to offer a doctorate of nursing practice degree next year. Associated Press.

What should the future hold for Kalaupapa after the last Hansen’s Disease patients are gone? The National Park Service is charting the future of the National Historical Park, and asking for public input. KITV4.

Kona Community Hospital's emergency room was evacuated and closed for several hours Thursday morning after chemical fumes apparently sickened 13 people. West Hawaii Today.

Two opinions on a plan for health care on Molokai emerged last week: residents want a patient-centric, easy-to-navigate system with choices, while providers are concerned about finding funding to keep their services available. Molokai Dispatch.

A pocket of the higher-elevation koa forest that once covered the land from Makawao to Kaupo has gained a "higher priority" status for conservation by being designated Maui's fifth Natural Area Reserve. Maui News.

ThinkTech Hawaii and Hawaii Reporter Launch New News Partnership. Hawaii Reporter.

A collective of community groups on Kauai will hold the Seed and Plant Exchange on Sunday, June 12 at Keiki o Ka Aina in Kapaa. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii joblessness as high as 9%, state House leadership turmoil, Kauai council shows openness, welfare recipients spend on mainland, lawmakers look to marijuana harvests, Hawaii Five-0 harkens back, Colt Brennan update, more island news

The caretaker of Hanauma Bay shares some of his secrets. KITV4.

After more than a decade on the job, House Speaker Calvin Say can't muster the votes to stay in power. Civil Beat.

Citizen groups seeking transparency in government are sending letters to each of Hawaii’s legislators that urge them to make the Capitol more accessible. Associated Press.

The newly elected members of the Kaua‘i County Council met in public Monday for an organizational meeting to discuss committee assignments and other key appointments. Garden Island.

A KITV4 News investigation found Hawaii welfare recipients are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars a month on the mainland, even though they're Hawaii residents, and it's allowed by law. KITV4.

Hawaii's unemployment rate held steady at 6.4 percent in October for the fourth straight month as the uneven nature of the state's economic recovery kept a lid on any significant job growth. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's unemployment rate is still 6.4%, but there are still wide differences from island to island, and a much higher rate of workers who can't get all the hours they want. Hawaii News Now.

Lockheed Martin Corp. says it has received $4.4 million in federal grants to help it commercialize technology producing energy by exploiting ocean temperature differences. Associated Press.

Top state lawmakers are looking for ways to make more medical marijuana available, especially to people in urban areas who can't grow their own. KITV4.

What can the public really expect from the Abercrombie administration during the upcoming 2011 legislative session? Hawaii Independent.

As Hawaii prepares to usher in a new administration, one has to look back on those promises made in the heat of the campaign and during numerous debates voters had to endure and wonder if they can be delivered. West Hawaii Today.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie is correct that the rail project is primarily a city and Federal Transit Administration responsibility. However, he is wrong in declaring that it is not his responsibility “to weigh in on the finances” since rail has the potential to significantly impact the state’s finances. Hawaii Reporter.

A security summit held annually in Honolulu is in it's eighth year, but this time around, there's a hot topic at the convention. KHON2.

A shooter fires a weapon. In the flash of an eye a computer detects and fingerprints the gun and reports back to a machine called a Hostile Fire Detection System. Hawaii News Now.

The Transportation Security Administration said Honolulu travelers should not expect major turbulence in their travel plans, despite a planned protest over security measures at Honolulu Airport. Star-Advertiser.

More than a dozen people testified yesterday against changes limiting eligibility for state mental health services — changes that some critics say contributed to a 36 percent rise in deaths among mental patients in 2009 from the year before. Star-Advertiser.

Local retailers are projecting a "strong holiday season," with most contacted in the days before Black Friday saying overall sales for the year are already up compared to last. Maui News.

A bill introduced by Honolulu City Councilwoman Ann Kobayashi would cap sewer fees for homeowners who earn $50,000 a year or less at .33 percent of their monthly income. KHON2.

After a 14-month journey around Hawaii County government, Mayor Billy Kenoi's ethics-reform package died a quiet death last week. Tribune-Herald.

Jamae Kawauchi, a Hilo attorney specializing in land-use, civil and business litigation, has been chosen to be Hawaii County's next clerk, Hamakua Councilman Dominic Yagong said Friday. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Health is warning divers to avoid the water around Pearl Harbor's Pier Mike 1 after thousands of gallons of sewage spilled in a storm drain that empties into harbor. Associated Press.

The Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission will hold a meeting at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 30 at the Kahului Community Center. Maui News.

After a year and a half of back and forth, the proposed protections for Mo`omomi-Anahaki are ready to be sent to the Hawaiian Homes Commission for a vote next month. Molokai Dispatch.

A bit of nostalgia on the Hawaii Five-0 set. Al Harrington, the only living member of the original cast, shot a guest spot for an upcoming episode. Hawaii News Now.

The parents of former U.H. quarterback Colt Brennan say little has changed in the past 24 hours. KHON2.

Hawaii to get wet, economic forecasters upbeat, lawsuits filed about UH records, foodstamps, health care, homeless among us, Hawaii County ignores safety sticker laws, 20-year Kauai councilman retires, UH to leave WAC, more state news

The National Weather Service says there is an increasing threat of heavy showers and thunderstorms for all islands through today. KHON2.

It's been an unprecedentedy dry year, and Ka'u ranchers have felt the impact of a lack of rain. West Hawaii Today.

The official state forecast suggests Hawaii's economy is upshifting, even if only from first to second gear. Hawaii News Now.

As the year winds down, the state is growing more optimistic about Hawaii's economic forecast for 2011. KHON2.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie won't attend a Colorado seminar for new governors because his mother-in-law is ill. Associated Press.

The Center on the Family at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and the State Department of Human Services have released the Homeless Service Utilization Report: Hawaii 2010.

The holidays are when family and friends gather around hearth and home. But many Hawaii residents will spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with no place to call home. Tribune-Herald.

Data misleading, says homeless center CEO. Maui News.

The homeless rate for the state rose 3 percent for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010, but on Kaua‘i the homeless rate declined 7 percent, to 625 people. Garden Island.

A federal lawsuit seeks to force Hawaii's government to more quickly hand out food stamps to families in need because the state has been falling behind. Associated Press.

A class action lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court in Honolulu Thursday alleging the University of Hawaii exposed the private information of 100,000 citizens including students, faculty and guests at the university. KITV4.

Through Class Action, Micronesians Challenge Hawaii’s Attempt to Curb Taxpayer-Sponsored Healthcare Benefits. Hawaii Reporter.

Thousands of Hawaii residents could see their extended unemployment benefits run out early after Congress failed in its first attempt to renew the program that funds them. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii County administration routinely ignores automobile safety check laws, according to a quick survey of parking lots surrounding county buildings in Hilo this week. West Hawaii Today.

The people expressed their wishes loud and clear when they passed a constitutional amendment that replaced the elected board of education with one appointed by the governor. Civil Beat.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's $56 million loan request was approved Wednesday by the County Council, which could overturn that action when three new lawmakers take office next month. Tribune-Herald.

Two big items before the County Council got favorable votes Wednesday, but one will be called back before the legislative body for reconsideration. West Hawaii Today.

What you see from the outside of the restaurant doesn't always tell the story even if you are paying top dollar just to get into an establishment. Hawaii News Now.

A craft fair that was canceled after a state Tax Department crackdown on "cash economy" businesses has been rescheduled for Dec. 4 at the Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall's Hawaii Suites, Mayor Peter Carlisle announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

After months of anxiety, the University of Hawaii's athletic future suddenly came into focus last night with the stunning revelation that it expects to leave the Western Athletic Conference to join the Mountain West Conference in football and place most of its other sports in the Big West Conference. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island residents have long suspected volcanic smog, or vog, has played havoc on the respiratory system. West Hawaii Today.

Pacific Wings is planning to apply for a federal subsidy that will lower the price of its Kalaupapa flights.Molokai Dispatch.

The Mortgage Store, a Maui business that was started by investment adviser George Lindell and sold to his daughter, has filed for bankruptcy, with liabilities of about $14.7 million and assets somewhat less. Maui News.

If Kaua‘i County Council Chair William U. “Kaipo” Asing had his way, there would be no story, no council certificate honoring his three decades of public service, no fanfare, period. Garden Island.

Inouye heads to Afghanistan, Ironman gears up, union negotiations drone on

Sen. Daniel K. Inouye will travel to Afghanistan and Pakistan over the next week to assess the volatile situation there as the White House and the nation's top commander in the war-torn theater weigh the need for more troops there.

Ten state buildings are being retrofitted at a cost of $34 million to lower utility costs over the long term, Gov. Linda Lingle announced yesterday.

Gov. Linda Lingle's administration and the Hawaii Government Employees Association have agreed to roughly 18 furlough days this fiscal year and 24 furlough days next fiscal year for state workers, sources close to the negotiations said.

Results of an advisory vote by University of Hawaii faculty members are expected to be announced tomorrow morning.

The state land board is taking a close look at two companies that hold licenses to harvest in the Waiakea Timber Management Area.

Anyone thinking about joining an Ironman triathlete for the final yards of his race this year, might want to reconsider.

Property owners continue grappling both in and out of court over land needed to finish the Mamalahoa Highway Bypass, as the clock ticks into the 22nd month of the 60-month window for completion.

Ala Moana Road in Lahaina was closed for more than six hours Tuesday and people were asked to leave the area in a confrontation that ended when police found a man dead in his vehicle after apparently suffering a self-inflicted wound.

Kaua‘i’s representatives in the state Legislature and others who coordinate efforts and reap rewards from the film industry’s appetite for the Garden Island’s lush greenery are opposed to planned layoffs in the state film office.

Blustery disturbances in weather and sports: Tropical Storm Lana, UH Coach McMackin

Tropical Storm Lana is strengthening and expected to become the first hurricane in the Central Pacific this hurricane season, according to the Central Pacific Hurricane Center.

Lana losing strength, expected to pass well south of Hawaii

In a comment heard 'round the sports world, University of Hawai'i football coach Greg McMackin yesterday made an admittedly "offensive" slur that not only created widespread stir but rebuke from one local gay and lesbian support group.

Greg McMackin embarked on his trip back to Hawaii yesterday trailed by a most unwelcome spotlight.

University of Hawaii football coach Greg McMackin drew sharp criticism for using a gay slur repeatedly during a Western Athletic Conference media day Thursday in Salt Lake City.

The Navy scored another missile hit off the northern coast of Kauai.The latest successful missile interception comes on the heels of continuing tensions with North Korea over its missile program.

The U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs has announced a hearing to consider the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2009 (S.1011), sponsored by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii).

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ordered Honolulu to clean and restore Ma'ili'ili Stream after the illegal unloading of concrete rubble, metal debris, used asphalt and other construction debris by city employees.

Jurors deciding the fate of a Hawaiian sovereignty group leader, accused of breaking into Iolani Palace, went home Thursday without a verdict. The jury will resume deliberations Friday morning.

Despite ongoing budget woes that have put the brakes on other aspects of Maui County's burgeoning public bus system, the county does have money to move forward with plans to build bus stops.

The one and only large-scale interisland shipping company, Young Brothers, announced Tuesday it would be upping the cost to send supplies throughout the 50th state, starting Saturday.

Moped owners would have to produce a valid safety inspection certificate when registering their machines under a bill aimed at distinguishing motorcycles disguised as "mopeds."

Hawaii County Council members get paid about $48,000 a year to represent their constituents, thanks to a recent 22 percent raise

Budget hits Big Island prison, elections, prep sports

County of Hawai’i Mayor Billy Kenoi questioned the plan by Gov. Linda Lingle’s administration to lay off the entire staff of Kulani Correctional Facility and close the prison without first discussing that decision with the communities that will be affected

Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi said he is "troubled" by the state's apparent plan to close Kulani Correctional Facility on the Big Island without discussion.

State elections chief Kevin Cronin continues to plead for at least $113,000 more to run his office this year, but Gov. Linda Lingle is holding firm, saying she won't release the money.

Official practices for football, girls volleyball, cross country, bowling and air riflery begin Monday at public high school fields and gyms across Hawai'i, but along with the excitement and anticipation of the new season comes the harsh realities of the state's budget crisis.

Finally holding a much-awaited discussion about government transparency, rules and policy, Kaua‘i County Council members pulled no punches in a day-long, back-and-forth that at times turned heated on Wednesday at the Historic County Building.

Susan McGeachy has a "Citizen of West Hawaii County" bumper sticker glued to the back of her silver Dodge Neon. But her talk Tuesday before a crowd of about 100 at Hualalai Academy in Kailua-Kona focused more on alternatives to splitting the county than actually creating that West Hawaii County of her dreams.

The Hawaii visitor industry changed in 2008, and it will never go back to what is was, the Maui Visitors Bureau membership was told at its annual marketing meeting Wednesday.

Top Hawaii Headlines: Tuesday morning edition

Faced with a projected deficit of close to $2.6 million for the fiscal year ending today, University of Hawaii athletic director Jim Donovan is looking to hold the line on the budgets for the school's sports teams while keeping ticket prices at current levels.

Battered by what he termed "one of the toughest economies we've ever faced as an athletic department," University of Hawai'i athletic director Jim Donovan said he expects to report a $2.58 million deficit for the fiscal year that closes today.

The first swine flu death in the state and the hospitalization of another person raised concern about the spreading infection that has stricken 545 people in Hawaii.

The state Department of Health yesterday confirmed Hawai'i's first swine flu death, saying the H1N1 virus contributed to the death of a person at Tripler Army Medical Center 11 days ago.

Hawaii motorists have until Tuesday night to beat a gas tax credit expiration that will cause the price to go up 12 cents a gallon.

The earthquake that shook Maui on Sunday night was the most powerful to originate under the island in more than five years, but no damage was reported, according to the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

The March 2006 Ka Loko Reservoir Dam disaster that claimed seven lives and wrought untold millions of dollars in property damage also had a considerable impact on the farming operations of the surrounding Kilauea area, a new report shows.

A woman who was sexually assaulted by her mentor and spiritual leader for at least seven years starting when she was 12 years old watched a judge sentence Manuel Guillermo Taboada to 10 years in prison yesterday.

It was his longest statement but short of an apology to the girl he sexually assaulted in the name of religion.

Maui Community College enrollment is up by 56 percent.