Big surf could lower voter turnout, 'Hunger Games' to film in Hawaii, OHA expands national presence, help for the homeless, Maui has state's top bond rating, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Democratic Party Grand Rally (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Vote today! Find your polling place here.

Voters across the state will head to the polls on Tuesday to select their nominees for president, mayor, and several congressional races during Hawaii's general election. Hawaii News Now.

Early voting in Hawaii before today's election was slightly ahead of the last presidential election in 2008, but political analysts do not expect turnout to be much higher than the 66 percent of registered voters who cast ballots four years ago. Star-Advertiser.

As of Nov. 3 almost 182,000 voters statewide had cast early ballots, far eclipsing the 152,000 ballots cast early in Hawaii’s 2010 general. Civil Beat.

Election Day is a state, city and county holiday.  So, all state, city and county offices are closed as well as state libraries. KITV4.

Like Florida in 2000, some are predicting that the closely contested 2012 presidential election could result in one candidate winning the national popular vote and the other winning the Electoral College. Civil Beat.

Republican Linda Lingle spent her time shaking hands while Democrat Mazie Hirono was with her supporters phone banking -- each trying to sway the undecided. KHON2.

Big surf will hang around today, with advisory levels likely continuing for east-facing shores but ending for the north shores of the main Hawaiian Islands, the National Weather Service predicts. Star-Advertiser.

The National Weather Service has extended a high surf advisory until 6 a.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is looking to expand its reach far beyond Hawaii's shores. Civil Beat.

Providers of services to homeless people have planned a host of events statewide for next week aimed at boosting awareness of the hurdles they face and urging more people to be part of the solution. Star-Advertiser.

It’s official — “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” will film in Hawaii. The sequel to Lionsgate’s wildly popular “The Hunger Games” will film on Oahu sometime before the end of the year. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The race for Honolulu Mayor will likely be the most closely watched of the election. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayoral hopeful Kirk Caldwell reported raising $76,000 in the final weeks of the race, according to the latest reports filed with the state Campaign Spending Commission. Former Gov. Ben Caye­tano, Caldwell's mayoral opponent, reported raising $73,599, bringing his total for the campaign to $1.4 million. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Campaign Spending Director Robert Watada is accusing Honolulu Mayoral Candidate Kirk Caldwell of participating in a"pay to play" scheme after reviewing dozens of donations Caldwell's campaign accepted from government rail contractors and employees of the city's rail authority. Hawaii Reporter.

The countdown to the General Election tomorrow is well underway and local campaigns are making their final push to reach potential voters. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

It’s time for Hawaii residents to head to the polls and cast the votes that will determine the future of their community, state and nation. Tribune-Herald.

Almost 30,000 of Hawaii County’s 104,323 registered voters had already voted by the early walk-in voting deadline Saturday. According to the county Elections Division, 9,502 voters opted for early walk-in voting, and 20,019 mail-in ballots had been received. West Hawaii Today.

State elections officials are watching for problems at the polls in Hawaii County during today's election, taking over for county officials after widespread glitches that led to extended voting hours during the primary. Associated Press.

Civil Defense and police personnel have fixed 11 of the 13 tsunami warning sirens found to be dysfunctional during last week’s test. Tribune-Herald.

Kona residents can hop a direct flight to Anchorage starting Saturday. West Hawaii Today.
http://westhawaiitoday.com/sections/news/local-news/nonstop-route-kona-takes.html

An ocean-drifting fish-raising prototype from a Hawaii company was named one of the best inventions of 2012 by Time Magazine. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii developer Peter Savio is moving forward on plans to expand his Pagoda hotel brand, which caters to kama­aina and college students looking for economical rooms. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Police Department and the U.S. Army Garrison-Pohakuloa last week formalized a training agreement. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A 22-acre vacant lot in Lahaina that has been used as a dumpsite and homeless encampment in recent years will be developed into a $60 million housing project. Maui News.

Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and Fitch rated Maui County Aa1/AA+/AA+, higher than any other county in the State of Hawai’i. Mayor’s TV Show to Discuss Maui Bond Rating. Maui Now.

A high surf advisory is currently in effect for north and east facing shores of Maui and Molokai and will remain in effect until Tuesday 6 a.m., the National Weather Service said. Maui News.

Kauai

Two Kaua‘i residents who regularly attend County Council meetings have filed a formal complaint with the Board of Ethics against the county attorney. Garden Island.

Kauai’s mayor and police chief have been battling publicly since last February over whether the mayor or the police commission has the authority to discipline or fire the police chief. Hawaii Reporter.

The Kaua‘i County Council unanimously approved on first reading last week a bill that would create a permanent reserve fund for the county, to be used to cover budget shortfalls and stabilization and initial disaster response, among other things. Garden Island.

Surf's up! Hirono and Lingle debate heated, UH West chancellor retiring, protests around Hawaii against Land Development Corp., Honolulu rail PAC funds Big Island candidates, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii resort pool party (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A high surf warning starting at noon today has been issued by the National Weather Service for the north and west shores of all islands. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Senate candidates Lingle, Hirono

Mazie Hirono and Linda Lingle went after each other Monday night in their second of five debates before the Nov. 6 election, and the first debate broadcast on television statewide. Civil Beat.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle said Monday that U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono has attacked national Republicans during their U.S. Senate campaign because she does not "have a record of her own to stand on." Hirono countered that Lingle's bipartisan theme is a facade and that had she been in the Senate, there would be no federal health care reform law. Star-Advertiser.

The Democratic and Republican nominees for US Senate squared off in a live televised debate Monday night in our KHON2 News studio. KHON2.

US Senate candidates Linda Lingle and Mazie Hirono have been challenging each other on the airwaves for weeks, and faced off on live television Tuesday. KITV4.

New online tools may soon help the public determine how well state agencies comply with records requests filed under the Uniform Information Practices Act. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie appointed former congressional candidate Esther Kia'aina to be the deputy director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Associated Press.

Leaders of the Hawaii State Teachers Association will be heading to schools soon to talk to teachers about the union's next steps in attempting to end a protracted labor dispute. Star-Advertiser.

UH Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple sent a campus-wide letter on Monday calling the past few weeks rough times for the university. KHON2.

Amidst Controversy Over Management, UH Chancellor Assures Faculty, Students. Hawaii Reporter.

We’ve got the last quarter moon, three major planets on view, another meteor shower to look for and a discovery over at the Mauna Kea summit as HPR’s Dave Lawrence speaks with Shawn Laatch from the Imiloa Astronomy Center for this week’s Stargazer report. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for October 9. Associated Press.

Oahu

Gene Awakuni, the man in charge of the newest campus in the University of Hawaii system, plans to retire months after opening the UH West Oahu campus which suffered a "cash-flow" problem because of change orders to the project. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii Gov. Ben Cayetano has a knack of getting people to come to his defense. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning plans to take deep ocean water through pipes that will chill the city's downtown high rises. The plan calls for driving about 100 piles about a quarter to a half mile offshore. KITV4.

Waikiki resident Richard Perez found out the hard way that using a city restroom in a closed park at night is serious business. Star-Advertiser.

Tourists: Little Action Taken On High Rate Of Oahu Rental Car Theft. Civil Beat.

The median price of a single-family home on Oahu rose 12 percent in September on higher sales, while prices of condominiums were flat on lower sales, according to statistics from the Honolulu Board of Realtors. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Several Hawaii County Council candidates are receiving unexpected, but nonetheless welcomed, support from a Honolulu political action committee mostly associated with Oahu’s rail dispute. Tribune-Herald.

County Council Candidates talk trash and more. West Hawaii Today.

Teachers, family and supporters came out Monday morning along Palani Road and Queen Kaahumanu Highway intersection for the Hawaii State Teachers Association Kona Chapter’s Unity Day rally. West Hawaii Today.

The Public Land Development Corporation is a terrible mistake that should be abolished, protesters across Hawaii said in sign-waving demonstrations Monday. Tribune-Herald.

A first-of-its-kind demonstration project to stabilize the Big Island electric grid while creating hydrogen for public transportation could be off and running by the first quarter of 2013. West Hawaii Today.

The Department of Land and Natural Resources is looking for answers to two important questions regarding the giant yellow metal object that recently washed ashore four miles south of Naalehu on Hawaii island: Where did it come from? Where is it going? Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island home prices rose substantially in September with the price of single-family homes up a whopping 13%. Big Island Now.

Maui

Scientists have confirmed that a whale found stranded in East Maui in 2010 was of a species that is among the rarest and least known in its family. Prior to 2010, scientists had little information about the Longman's beaked whale in Hawaii, said researchers with Hawaii Pacific University. Star-Advertiser.

New research from Hawai'i Pacific University on a rarely documented whale has central Pacific scientists on alert for a disease which may affect the mortality rate of dolphins and other marine mammal species. KHON2.

Kauai

For a few hours Monday afternoon, the entire state connected through simultaneous events linked by one moving force: Repeal Act 55. Community members on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu and Big Island got together from 2 to 4 p.m., and on Maui from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., to protest against the controversial act. Garden Island.

The Hawai‘i Army National Guard announced members of Troop C, 1st Squadron, 299th Cavalry of the 29th Infantry Brigade Combat Team will be conducting Small Arms Live Fire Exercises on Saturday between 6 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. at the Kekaha Rifle Range. Garden Island.


Molokai

Thousands of Molokai residents were without power for more than seven hours Sunday night and early Monday morning after an islandwide power outage that began at 10:04 p.m., Maui Electric Co. officials said. Maui News.

With the upcoming Oct. 21 canonization of Mother Marianne at the Vatican, and their numbers dwindling, the remaining 17 leprosy patients banished to the remote peninsula of Kalaupapa are eager to make sure their stories are recorded and their home preserved. Associated Press.

Surf's up! Lesbians sue Hawaii for right to marry, Big Island redistricting carves out incumbent, ambulance audit shows waste, inefficiency, Honolulu considers property tax overhaul, lava approaching neighborhood and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Banzai Pipeline photo courtesy Boardistan

Historic surf rolled into the Banzai Pipeline for the opening day of the Billabong Pipe Masters. Hawaii News Now.

The North Shore was pumping with wind-blown waves on Thursday that were big enough to stage the Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons surf contest — and to help realize the island fantasies of new Hawaii arrivals Air Force Staff Sgt. Joe Rucker and his wife, Dawn. Star-Advertiser.

In a political tit for tat that foreshadows Hawaii's U.S. Senate race next year, Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his predecessor Linda Lingle are clashing over who's done the better job managing the state's finances. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that the state is back on track financially, and suggested he would share quarterly reports on state spending to make the budget process more transparent. Star-Advertiser.

Two women are suing Hawaii in federal court because they want to be married and not simply have a civil union. Associated Press.

Two Honolulu women are suing Gov. Neil Abercrombie and the state health director in federal court over the state's denial of same-sex marriages. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates of the local food movement say increasing the amount of food grown across the islands could benefit the state in several ways, improving both the health and wealth of the state. Hawaii Public Radio.

Sens. Daniel Akaka and Daniel Inouye recently found themselves on opposite sides of controversial votes on how the United States should handle the detention of terrorism suspects, including American citizens. Civil Beat.

Hawai’I’s Charter School System will be undergoing a complete overhaul in 12-to-16 months. That’s the recommendation of a State Senate Task Force charged with developing more stringent laws and rules to govern local Charter Schools. Hawaii Public Radio.

A state organization that oversees thousands of acres of prime agricultural land and millions in income from agricultural leases spent just a little over a week in a low-key search for a new leader. KITV4.

Oahu

About 150,000 Oahu homeowners, including elderly and disabled ones, would lose their property tax exemptions if the City Council adopts politically dicey recommendations made by an advisory panel aiming to bring more equity, fairness and simplicity to the tax system. Star-Advertiser.

Only a handful of ambulances met response time guidelines, and emergency responders made as much as two hundred thousand dollars each a year due to overtime. KHON2.

The city is trying to fire two managers who oversaw a former parking manager accused by prosecutors of stealing as much as $400,000 from city parking facilities in Honolulu and Chinatown. KITV4.

State investigating claims of welfare fraud. KHON2.

Assistant Chaminade University basketball coach Mike Mathey resigned today, four days after mistakenly sending a text with a racial slur to one of his players. Hawaii News Now.

About 20 houseless people, advocates, and Occupy Honolulu supporters turned up to voice their opposition to City Council Bill 54 at Honolulu Hale on Wednesday. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

A last-minute change to the new County Council district map has saved Hilo Councilman Dennis Onishi from having to square off against fellow incumbent J Yoshimoto. West Hawaii Today.

The cost of acquiring and improving land for the Hawaii Judiciary’s Kona court complex on the Big Island varies from $4.5 million to $10.8 million, depending on which of seven sites the state chooses, according to a final environmental impact statement published Thursday in the state’s Environmental Notice. Pacific Business News.

The CEO of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is meeting with the public today and Saturday to talk about a plan to settle a decades-old claim on revenue generated by Hawaiian monarchy lands. Tribune-Herald.

The would-be developer of a South Kona project is arguing the Kona Community Plan does not apply to its proposed planned unit development. West Hawaii Today.

Astronomers have identified the future mission of the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope on Mauna Kea, if they can secure funding for it. Tribune-Herald.

Lava continues to flow through the Royal Gardens subdivision on Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

The state would purchase 65 acres in Waikapu for a major new Central Maui park complex, under a proposal being discussed Friday by the Board of Land and Natural Resources in Honolulu. Maui News.

A final environmental impact statement has been released for A&B Properties' 2,550-home, 545-acre development in Central Maui. Maui News.

In less than a year, the tiny Hansen's disease settlement of Kalaupapa could be the site of the ministry of not one but two Roman Catholic saints. Maui News.

Kauai
Initial University of Hawai‘i reports estimated that up to 20 million tons of tsunami debris from Japan could reach Hawaiian shores by early 2013, but new findings suggest it may start to arrive as early as next month. Garden Island.

Princeville Ranch Adventures announces the opening of its Kids’ Adventure Center. Garden Island.

News release: Hawaii public schools to offer surfing as an official sport

Abercrombie and friend (c) Ricky Li

HONOLULU – Hawaii public high school students will for the first time be able to compete in school sanctioned surf competitions as early as the spring of 2013, under a plan announced today by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, the Hawaii State Board and Department of Education and professional surfer Carissa Moore.

Working with the appointed Hawaii State Board of Education, the DOE is developing a plan to incorporate surfing in school athletics, with collaboration from city officials, surfing organizations and the community.

“Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. From Duke Kahanamoku to the thousands of residents and visitors who surf both recreationally and competitively, the sport is rooted in our culture and way of life,” said Abercrombie. “Bringing surfing to our students is another step in our collective goal to transform public education and provide our children with rich and diverse educational opportunities.”

“Surfing will be an exciting addition for our students as we continue to expand and improve educational programs to increase student achievement,” Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi said. “School sports teach critical life lessons such as team work and goal-setting while helping students stay active and healthy.”

The Hawaii State Board of Education in May 2004 approved surfing – the official individual sport of the state of Hawaii – as a high school sport. Despite overwhelming support from parents and students, funding and other challenges have kept surfing from becoming a fully-fledged school sport.

The BOE and the DOE are working on an implementation blueprint to make competitive school surfing a reality. The DOE intends to support the sport with outside funding sources and consult community partners and city officials to ensure that surf breaks are shared equitably and safely. The BOE will support implementation processes that address safety.

BOE member Keith Amemiya, a former executive director of the Hawaii High School Athletic Association, said surfing will allow students to learn about their environment and themselves. He said it also will engage the community by fostering relationships and partnerships with a new group of individuals and groups.

“Surfing is a unique sport that often attracts athletes that may not necessarily be interested in more traditional sports such as football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Therefore, we're confident that surfing will increase athletics participation numbers,” Amemiya said. “In our view, the more students that engage in athletics and other after school activities, the higher our student achievement rates will become.”

Hawaii’s Carissa Moore, who this summer became the youngest surfer ever to win a professional surfing world title at age 18, joined Governor Abercrombie and education officials in celebrating today’s announcement.

"It will open doors for a lot of students," she said, explaining that surfing taught her important life skills such as to be perseverant, manage time, and be organized.

The BOE and DOE will continue to discuss a plan to implement surfing as a high school sport during the Board’s General Business Meeting tomorrow, Oct. 4, starting at 2:15 p.m. at the Queen Liliuokalani Building.

Former Honolulu Mayor Hannemann announces bid for congressional seat, teachers union appeals to Supreme Court, hospital infections secret, Chinatown parties irk residents, Aloha shirt stamps coming, surf's up, more Hawaii news

Hawaii marine scientist (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A University of Hawaii researcher has come up with a new explanation for how acidification of the ocean disrupts coral growth. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann announced Tuesday that he will seek the Democratic nomination for the U.S. House of Representatives from the 2nd Congressional District in 2012. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann will announce today that he will run in the Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District, describing himself as a proven and experienced leader who would focus on improving the nation's fiscal policy. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said that while it will be "much more challenging than in the past" to maintain the pipeline of federal dollars to Hawaii, he remained confident that his home state would continue to get its share. Maui News.

The teachers union turned to the state Supreme Court on Monday in its bid to seek relief from the wage reductions and higher health insurance premiums imposed July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Kept in Dark about Hospital Infections. Civil Beat.

Unanimous support was delivered today to a state Senate committee for career public defender Karen Nakasone to serve as a state Circuit Court judge. Hawaii Reporter.

The new state agency tasked with developing state lands through public-private partnerships will be a corporation of one. Civil Beat.

While the development purpose of the corporation directly conflicts with DLNR’s conservation responsibilities, the Public Land Development Corporation has been set up to act as a separate entity with influence on DLNR decisions. Hawaii Independent.

A Joint House and Senate Human Services Committee conducted a hearing today to hear from the community how lawmakers can help to protect children …especially runaway and homeless youth … from the many dangers they face in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

It's the last day for the public's voice to be heard on the three finalists nominated to be the next Bishop Estate trustee. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha shirts will adorn five U.S. postage stamps next year, the U.S. Postal Service revealed over the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory in effect from noon Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday for rising surf along south facing shores of all Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

Oahu

A growing number of street closures for parties and events in and around Chinatown has the community talking about how much is too much. KHON2.

Residents and businesses in Leeward Oahu are hoping the opening of Disney's new Aulani resort will have a dramatic and positive impact on the area's economy. KITV4.

Three Honolulu men were arrested Monday on charges of trying to extort money from the owners of The Shack Waikiki, federal prosecutors said. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Design changes and delays acquiring property are preventing Mayor Billy Kenoi from keeping his promise to put the Laaloa Street extension out to bid as soon as the County Council approved a bond float. West Hawaii Today.

Another vent outburst expected. Tribune-Herald.

Kona company takes fish farm far offshore. West Hawaii Today.

Farmers seeking to lease a portion of the 717 acres of county-owned Paauilo land are invited to an open house-style public meeting Thursday at the Paauilo Gym. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Federal Wildlife Inspectors Seize Birds From Maui Refuge. KITV4.

Joe Blackburn is getting an early start in launching his bid to unseat Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino, who holds the council's Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat. Maui News.

Updated plans for managing national wildlife refuges on Maui and Molokai are available for the public to review and comment on. Associated Press.

Kauai

Lush landscaping and gazeboes are about to make Kaua‘i’s only off-leash dog park even more appealing. Garden Island.

Hawaii political shenanigans in hacked website, Honolulu councilman to be sentenced for stealing, military sticky issue in reapportionment, Supreme Court considers Native Hawaiian lawsuit, sharks and snow and more Hawaii news

Hawaii surf (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A reinforcement swell arriving Tuesday should keep south shore surf at advisory levels with 8-foot waves through for a third day. Star-Advertiser.

In a joint research effort between the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Hawai‘i Institute of Marine Biology, University of Tokyo, the Japanese National Institute of Polar Research, and the University of Florida, scientists have shed new light on the hunting behavior of tiger sharks by studying their swimming dynamics off the west coast of Hawai‘i Island. Hawaii Reporter.

The military has awarded a $62.7 million contract to a Honolulu company for the construction of a new laboratory and offices for the command that searches for, finds, and identifies the remains of Americans missing from past wars. Associated Press.

The state Reapportionment Commission is revisiting the question of whether nonresident military personnel living in Hawaii should be counted when the panel carves up voting districts this year. Maui News.

The Hawaii Supreme Court agreed Monday to consider the state's challenge to a lawsuit by Native Hawaiians who want the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to seek adequate funding from the state. Star-Advertiser.

The Department of Education is once again disagreeing with the conclusions of an annual report on graduation rates across the country, which puts Hawaii in the bottom third of states for the number of students who leave school with a diploma. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s newest Community College Chancellor officially begins her job July 1st.Hawaii Public Radio.

A state lawmaker is called a "crook" on her OWN e-mail to constituents. KITV4.

The chief of staff to Honolulu City Council member Tom Berg hacked Rep. Kymberly Pine's website and government email account and is responsible for putting up postings and sending out an email calling her "a crook." Civil Beat.

When former City Councilman Rod Tam shows up for sentencing today on charges of stealing money from the city, he must also decide whether to contest new charges that he violated state campaign spending laws. Star-Advertiser.

The route to realign Saddle Road has been as winding and circuitous as the road itself. West Hawaii Today.

Officials at the state's unemployment office say a power surge was likely the reason why all 180 tele-claim phone lines were down Sunday. KHON2.

Vanpool Hawaii is losing its government funding, but its executive director said Monday the program will continue. Hawaii News Now.

The sight of Mauna Kea's white peaks can be startling to Big Island visitors during the winter months. But even longtime residents were taken aback when the mountain collected between 6 and 12 inches of snow and hail on Saturday, just two weeks shy of the summer solstice. Tribune-Herald.

A longtime state worker and former interim NELHA director takes over next week as the new executive director at the energy laboratory. West Hawaii Today.

It’s not a pretty situation. Hawaii imports approximately 85 to 90 percent of the state’s food supply. We have less than a seven-day food supply in our stores at any given time. Hawaii Independent.

Home sales and prices rose on Kauai during the month of May, according to data from the Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News

For the next couple nights, construction workers will be putting final touches in the new Wailua Bridge, affecting the traffic in the area while work is performed. Garden Island.

Plans to build electric cars in 3 states stall. Associated Press.

Hawaii governor proclaims gay pride month, Kauai prepares big gay pride festival, paddle-boarders, swimmers, surfers at odds, electricity hikes could pay for biofuel plan, Big Island bag ban hearings set, monk seal protection sought, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community is applauding the governor for declaring June pride month. Associated Press.

While Kaua‘i is known for its sandy beaches, unparalleled beauty and aloha spirit, members of Parents, Families, & Friends of Lesbians and Gays and Lambda Aloha are creating another reason for people to visit Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii business leaders received a “wake-up call” Thursday from the new director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, who told them they need to help pay for public-private projects to drive the local economy. Star-Advertiser.

Residents on the Big Island are closer to having a portion of their electricity needs supplied from locally produced biofuel now that Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed Senate Bill 1347. Pacific Business News

The explosion of standup paddling in the islands has triggered complaints, first with swimmers, now with surfers. KITV4.

Many of those who frequent the sandbar in the middle of Kaneohe Bay consider it a second home – a place to kick back and relax with family and friends. KHON2.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Thursday proposed expanding federally protected zones — or critical habitat — for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal to include parts of the main Hawaiian Islands.Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle promised to get the city's financial house in order, but the City Council is challenging him on some of his key proposals. Civil Beat.

With approval of a Hawaii County budget now in the bag, County Council members are turning their attention to banning bags. Tribune-Herald.

A new survey says Hawaii residents are adjusting their spending habits because of high gas prices. Hawaii News Now.

our school systems are leaving the boys behind … starting in the earliest grades. Hawaii Public Radio.

Waters of Life Public Charter School on Hawaii island will be released from probation June 15 after spending three years under strict monitoring by the Charter School Review Panel. Star-Advertiser.

After years of community planning and reinvestment, the first changes of many are arriving in Kakaako. Hawaii Independent.

While US real GDP bottomed out in the second quarter of 2009 and is now back at its pre-recession level, non-farm payrolls only started picking up at the beginning of 2010, and they remain far below their previous peak. Hawaii Reporter.

The Waikiki Health Center says it has acquired a clinic that provides prenatal and postpartum medical and social services to women who have or have had addiction issues. Associated Press.

The city is providing new visuals of the design of the rail cars for the mass transit project. KHON2.

Second Circuit Judge Joseph Cardoza on Wednesday denied a motion by former Council Member Sol Kaho'ohalahala to dismiss a long-running lawsuit that seeks to invalidate his term in office. Maui News.

A wildlife that burned hundreds of acres of state land on the Kona side of the Big Island is fully contained. Associated Press.

A bill intended to resolve noisy-dog complaints has become Hawaii County law -- quietly. Tribune-Herald.

Not allowing DW Aina Lea to proceed with construction, despite a Land Use Commission ruling against the project, will cause the developer to break promises to the community, lose goodwill it had with its foreign investors and delay the opening of affordable town houses, attorneys argue. West Hawaii Today.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surf's up! Obama wraps up Hawaii vacation, staff works in 'Waikiki West Wing," new City Council to be sworn in today, big year for Birthers, affordable housing coming to Lahaina, military prepares Big Island site, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

The National Weather Service has issued a high-surf  for the north and west shores of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Kauai and Niihau and the west shore of Lanai until 6 p.m. tomorrow. Star-Advertiser.

A High Surf Warning for the west shores of the island of Hawai'i until 6pm Monday with surf reaching 8 to 12 foot faces tonight through Monday. KHON2.

Sirens around the state are due to blast for 45 seconds at 11:45 a.m. on Monday. Associated Press.

Native Hawaiians seemed poised to get, at long last, the same rights as Native Americans and Alaska Natives.Associated Press.

The nine-member Honolulu City Council is due to have four new members after a swearing-in ceremony today. Associated Press.

Former City Councilman Rod Tam and his campaign committee failed to verify nearly $1,300 in food and beverage campaign expenses, according to a state Campaign Spending Commission complaint under review by city prosecutors. Star-Advertiser.

Maui county officially has a new mayor. KHON2.

With the next presidential election less than two years away, Hawaii’s newly elected Governor, Neil Abercrombie, wants to see the controversy over the president’s birth certificate extinguished, so he can waylay an expected flood of requests to Hawaii’s Department of Health by so called “Birthers” when Obama runs for re-election in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Though the options for downtime are better here than in Washington, the workday for the Waikiki West Wing is still largely the same. Tribune.

President Barack Obama is getting plenty of exercise to start the year. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama spent the first afternoon of the new year at a sunny beach on a Marine base near his rented vacation home. Associated Press.

There are those who crave adventure and spontaneity during their vacations. Then, there's President Barack Obama. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama spent the first day of 2011 with his family, enjoying the sunny, warm Hawaiian weather. Associated Press.

Richard Lim always has been at the forefront of Hawaii business. Star-Advertiser.

HECO received some good news during the holidays. The Public Utilities Commission officially implemented a policy called decoupling which will permanently transform the way it gets paid. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii pets will begin the new year with new protections -- better even than for some humans. KITV4.

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to the state's first baby of the New Year. Hawaii News Now.

With a new ban on certain fireworks set to go into effect on January second, Oahu residents flocked to the fireworks vendors so they could send out the year with a bang. KITV4.

The U.S. Army is moving forward in the process of obtaining permission to conduct training on “ceded lands” on Hawaii Island. Hawaii Independent.

American Community Survey indicates the Windward community is struggling with one of Hawaii's worst economic dips. Civil Beat.

It's deja vu all over again as the Hawaii County Council once more faces the prospect of imposing impact fees to offset the downside of development. West Hawaii Today.

Developers' fair share contributions will account for only $5.2 million of a county capital improvement budget estimated at more than $100 million next year. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii Housing Finance & Development Corp. hopes to revive the full Villages of Leiali'i housing project in Lahaina, which has been stalled for two decades while housing prices in West Maui have climbed to levels far higher than in the rest of the island. Maui News.

Judge Calvin Murashige was honored by his collegues, family friends and the staff of the state Judiciary during a luncheon last week. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism up, surf down, Kilauea grumbles, Legislature in turmoil, website targets spending, counties reorganize, more news from the islands

Tourism rises in isles Star-Advertiser.

La Niña, “the little girl,” has brought her little waves to Hawaii and is wreaking havoc with the world’s best surfers. For the first time in the 28-year history of the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing,  presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, Sunset Beach has not delivered a single day of iconic giant surf for the O’Neill World Cup of Surfing. Hawaii Independent.

Extended unemployment benefits for nearly 2 million Americans, including more than 4,000 in Hawaii, begin to run out today, cutting off a steady stream of income and guaranteeing a dismal holiday season for people already struggling with bills they cannot pay. Associated Press.

Nearly a month after the November general election, seven new state representatives lack Capitol offices as the result of an unsettled House leadership struggle, delaying preparations for the first lawmaking session under Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie's leadership. Associated Press.

Slom thinks Say will hold on to speakership. Civil Beat.

A Hawaii group that favors limited and accountable government has unveiled a new website that details state spending for the last two years. Associated Press.

The site exposes details for more than $12 billion in state spending and transfers since 2008. Grassroot Institute.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie chose the Maui County finance director yesterday to be his budget chief and tapped a veteran Hawaii island lawmaker as the state's top labor official. Star-Advertiser.

Governor-elect Neil Abercrombie added two more nominees to his cabinet Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Gov.-Elect Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday announced his choices to head the Departments of Budget and Finance and Labor and Industrial Relations. KITV4.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye of Hawaii has joined almost five dozen other senators to defeat a proposal that would have imposed a three-year ban on congressionally directed spending — also known as earmarks. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono says she's been elected to the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee in Congress. Associated Press.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle on Tuesday announced his choices for eight new administrators on his staff, including two department directors. KITV4.

Maui County Mayor-elect Alan Arakawa named six new members to his Cabinet on Monday, including two key people to help him achieve his campaign goals, Danny Agsalog as director of the Department of Finance and Dave Taylor as director of the Department of Water Supply. Maui News.

Kaua‘i County Council members on Tuesday continued their behind-closed-doors discussion of who they should hire to serve as county clerk. Garden Island.

Incoming Planning Director Michael Dahilig announced Tuesday that Dee Crowell will become deputy planning director effective Dec. 13. Garden Island.

Earlier today there was a confidential meeting within the Department of Transportation regarding employee and management disagreements.  The previous issues escalated to where these two women filed a lawsuit against the airport personnel manager. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii ranks fifth in the nation in methamphetamine use among people age 12 and older, according to a study by the Hawaii Meth Project. KITV4.

Family and Friends are invited to the State Capitol at 11 a.m. today to remember those who have lost loved ones to AIDS. KHON2.

Scientists at Kilauea Volcano will conduct aerial surveillance Wednesday of a new breakout, to determine where the lava flows may be headed next. KHON2.

Tube rupturing, sending flow toward residences near Kalapana Gardens. Tribune-Herald.

There will be a celebration of Hawaii Radio and Entertainment pioneer Krash Kealoha in his hometown of Waimanalo. Hawaii Reporter.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources will begin construction on a new ferry terminal building and other improvements at the Ma'alaea Small Boat Harbor on Maui Friday. KHON2.

Stimulating the local economy by putting people to work -- to "help us paddle our canoe out of the economic doldrums" -- is one of the stated goals of a $56 million bond issue the Hawaii County Council is scheduled to vote on today.West Hawaii Today.

The owner of Ooma Beachside Village wants another chance before the Land Use Commission. West Hawaii Today.

Wailuku town would have raised speed tables on Vineyard Street and a pedestrian greenway along Waiale Road. And, there would be more trees along sidewalks in Kahului and Wailuku. Maui News.

Hawaii seeks Obama library, racism feared in schools decision, Waikiki wins in Hawaii Five-0, groups wants Russian tourists, surf star Andy Irons remembered, more news

Barack Obama hasn't even finished the second year of his first term in the White House, but officials with two universities that are interested in building his presidential library are already positioning themselves to win the Hawaii-born president's favor. Associated Press.

Judges cite 'Kill Haole Day.'A federal appeals court ruling that rejected a challenge to the Kamehameha Schools admissions practice includes a heated debate over whether four non-Hawaiian students would be subject to racial attacks if their identities were revealed. Star-Advertiser.

A private organization is making efforts to boost Hawaii's tourism by trying to attract more Russian visitors to our state. KHON2.

According to Hospitality Advisors' latest report nearly seven out of every ten hotel rooms in Hawaii were occupied during the first week of November. KHON2.

All those aerial beauty shots of Waikiki Beach during the September premiere of "Hawaii Five-0" 2.0 paid off for the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, where scenes were shot for tonight's episode. Star-Advertiser.

The state Legislature didn't respond favorably to his request to bring Hapuna Beach and Mauna Kea State parks under the county's purview last session, but that's not stopping Mayor Billy Kenoi from continuing his quest to run those parks. West Hawaii Today.

The state is two-thirds responsible and contractor American Marine Corp. one-third responsible for an accident that damaged Keawakapu Reef almost one year ago, the Board of Land and Natural Resources decided Friday. Maui News.

The State's Agriculture Department is asking local residents to buy local products to keep pests from entering and to give farmers a boost. KITV4.

The new telescope that was installed atop Mauna Kea in April has what its director calls "astigmatism" and won't be ready to make scientific observations for several more weeks. Tribune-Herald.

A legislative task force on illegal fireworks is set to hear testimony from federal agencies. Associated Press.

While most of the country experienced a Republican tidal wave on Election day, Sam Slom is the last GOP stalwart in the Hawaii Senate.Associated Press.

An unprecedented gathering on Sunday at Kauai's North Shore brought together the world's best surfers, longtime friends and family, and countless fans, all sharing their sorrows while celebrating the life of Hawaii's three-time world champ. Hawaii News Now.

Signs lined the highway entering Hanalei town, welcoming the waves of people who came to Kaua‘i’s North Shore from all points on the globe to pay tribute and celebrate the life of Andy Irons. Garden Island.

A high surf advisory has been issued for the north shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Maui, and the west shores of Niihau, Kauai, Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii, through 6 a.m. Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Fred Hemmings figures he's spent a lifetime on the vanguard of rising opportunity and crashing change. Star-Advertiser.

Representative Gene Ward (R-Hawaii Kai – Kalama Valley) said today on behalf of the Hawaii Kai community keenly interested in keeping the Kamilonui Valley farmers on their agriculture lots leased from Bishop Estate – Kamehameha Schools, that the Estate has not negotiated in good faith, and is calling upon the community to support the farmers.Hawaii Reporter.

November 18: North Shore Agriculture Committee to hear from Kamehameha Schools Endowment Group. Hawaii Independent.

When Paul McCartney asked the musical question, "Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I'm 64?" he likely had no idea how profound his sing-song query might one day seem to the Beatles' legions of baby boomer fans. Star-Advertiser.

Despite dominance of Democrats in Hawaii, it will be up to independent commission to decide what political map for next 10 years should look like. Civil Beat.

While Hawaii voters have empowered Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie to select the state's Board of Education, it remains to be seen how much leeway he will have. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii representative Colleen Hanabusa (D) sought the advice of former Hawaii Congressmen Neil Abercrombie and Ed Case Friday before taking off for a weeklong orientation session for freshman lawmakers in Washington. KITV4.

An environmental cleanup prompted by the Coast Guard will continue until mid-November as the last of the hazardous waste is removed from a cliff at Ilio Point and shipped to the mainland. Molokai Dispatch.

Department of Health warns of sewage spill KHON2.

A former county planning director says that a narrow, unpaved road near South Point that's been gated and locked for decades may be a legal right-of-way connecting South Point Road to Mamalahoa Highway. Tribune-Herald.

There will be a new kid on the block - a 62-foot, double-hulled canoe that, like a baby in gestation, will make its debut in about nine months. Maui News.

Oahu resident Elizabeth Balao is appealing to Hawaii ’s Filipinos to assist tens of thousands of flood victims in the Cagayan Valley region, which was devastated in the wake of Super Typhoon Juan on October 19, 2010. Filipino Chronicle.

Surfing, monk seals, shearwaters, ethics, Ellsberg, tattoos and more. All the day's news about Hawaii

With a dwindling Hawaiian monk seal population, federal officials are proposing a new plan to improve the survival of the endangered species. However, some Molokai fishermen say they are worried the plan could come at their expense. Molokai Dispatch.

Peter Carlisle called transparency his highest priority — after the budget — on the night he was elected. But one month into office, he doesn't have any plans to make government more open. Civil Beat.

A proposal to change the property tax break given to owners of historic homes is advancing in the City Council, although lawmakers said they hope to work with homeowners and state and county agencies to potentially head off any steep tax increases.Star-Advertiser.

In Hawaii, tattoos are often more accepted because they are a part of the ancient Polynesian and Asian culture. KITV4.

The big waves are back on the North Shore of Oahu. So are big name professional surfers. And with them come big business. Hawaii News Now.

Overhead waves at Hale‘iwa could well see the $900,000 Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, kick off at 8 a.m. this morning, Garden Island.

Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie has named the founder of a Maui-based events and record production firm as the coordinator of his inaugural events. Star-Advertiser.

Daniel Ellsberg, of Pentagon Papers fame, to speak Associated Press.

Alaska Airlines is launching new seasonal service Friday between Portland and Kona on Hawaii's Big Island. Associated Press.

Island Residents Complain About New TSA Procedures. KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle and Maj. Gen. Robert Lee participated in Veterans Day ceremonies at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery for the last time yesterday as commander in chief and commanding general of Hawaii's National Guard forces, respectively. Star-Advertiser.

They're known as the two Dans on Capitol Hill. Sen. Dan Inouye and Sen. Daniel Akaka, two veterans who've served Hawaii in Washington D.C. for a combined 85 years. KHON2.

A ruling filed Wednesday by the state Supreme Court will likely pave the way for the county to resume construction on the long-stalled Hokulia bypass highway in South Kona. Tribune-Herald.

The state Supreme Court upheld a 3rd Circuit Court ruling that the county's condemnation of South Kona property for the Mamalahoa bypass was done for the community's benefit. West Hawaii Today.

Talk about a political football. The county Board of Ethics on Wednesday punted a proposal to tighten the county ethics code back to the County Council, which has already postponed a decision on the issue four times. West Hawaii Today.

The attempt of federal and state agencies to create a permitting process for the incidental “take” of endangered shearwater birds throughout Kaua‘i appears to be ruffling the feathers of local residents. Garden Island.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources proposes that a company that damaged a coral reef while trying build an artificial reef off Maui should be fined $824,373. Star-Advertiser.

A state Land Use Commission decision enabling Castle & Cooke Homes to move ahead with plans for its Koa Ridge housing and commercial project has been challenged by the Sierra Club. Associated Press.

Maui environmental groups are organizing a letter-writing campaign to persuade Hawaiian Electric Co. and the state government to head off plans to import palm oil from Malaysia to be used in a test at Maui Electric Co.'s Maalaea power plant. Maui News.

County Council Vice Chairwoman Emily Naeole was cleared Wednesday of allegedly using her staff and office for campaign work in violation of Hawaii County's Code of Ethics. Tribune-Herald.

The county Board of Ethics on Wednesday cleared Puna Councilwoman Emily Naeole-Beason of using her council office and staff for campaigning. West Hawaii Today.

Barely a week after voters elected them, incoming members of the Maui County Council are in discussions over who will take key leadership positions for the 2011-12 term. Maui News.

After missing its October deadline, the Maui County Council will wait until next year to continue deliberations on the Maui Island Plan. Maui News.

There's a new twist in a Kahala landlord battle. Hawaii News Now.

Billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto says expect something "dynamic" along Kahala Avenue where he owns dozens of properties. KHON2.

After having trouble finding qualified tenants for an affordable rental project in Waipouli, the developers asked for changes in a housing agreement that would allow them to rent half of the 82-unit project on the open market. Garden Island.

UH Mānoa’s Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs has initiated a formal search process for the regular appointment of Dean of the College of Natural Sciences. Hawaii Reporter.

Add Kalihi and Puuhale elementary schools to the list of low-enrollment campuses being considered for closing as part of state Department of Education cost cutting. Star-Advertiser.

More than 300 high school students spent the Veterans Day holiday rehearsing for a chorus festival being held in Honolulu this weekend. KITV4.

The gift shop at the Hawaii State Art Museum is struggling to stay open and has never paid a month's rent since moving in a year ago. Star-Advertiser.

Lahaina Yacht Club (LYC) has a mission: “to get people involved in water sports,” explained Mike Sowers. Lahaina News.