Hawaii reacts to killing of Osama bin Laden, military boosts alert status, state spending up despite no money, counties get smaller share of hotel tax, university salaries lag, Merrie Monarch pau, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hanama Bay (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A free-diver found a military canister bobbing in the waters off Hanauma Bay yesterday morning, forcing hundreds of people to abandon the marine preserve. Star-Advertiser.

In timing that suggests a link with the announcement of Osama bin Laden's death, U.S. military installations in the Pacific raised their security level from Alpha on Sunday, the lowest level, to Bravo. Star-Advertiser.

The news of the death of the terrorist leader Osama bin Ladin stirred strong emotions on and off base. Security is understandably tight at Kaneohe Marine Base Hawaii. KITV4.

Hawaii officials react to news of Bin Laden's death. KHON2.

President Obama's stunning announcement Sunday about the death of 9-11 mastermind Osama bin Laden, after a decade-long manhunt, drew swift reaction from Hawaii residents. Hawaii News Now.

Even though Hawaii's government is short on cash, it's budgeted spending is still rising. Associated Press.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for about $600 million in new tax revenue to help pay for the state’s new two-year budget. Civil Beat.

Contractors Fear Tax Changes Will Hurt Business. KITV4.

A number of controversial measures died on Friday evening at the Hawaii State Legislature because lawmakers were unable to get their proposals passed out of conference committee before the 6 p.m. deadline. Hawaii Reporter.

Troubled over the long-term viability of the Employees' Retirement System, state lawmakers hope to make significant structural changes to reduce benefit costs for new public workers and stabilize the system over the next generation. Star-Advertiser.

Salaries for University of Hawaii and Chaminade University professors are well below those of many of their colleagues elsewhere in the country, a new survey shows. Associated Press.

County looks ‘OK’ despite cap on TAT. Maui News.

The state Legislature's decision to change how it distributes key state revenues will cost Hawaii County an estimated $1.37 million in the coming budget year, an aide to Mayor Billy Kenoi said Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Auditor surprised by county’s skyrocketing electric bill in 2010. Garden Island.

As Pattern Energy begins taking action on Molokai to develop a wind farm, two groups are denouncing the Big Wind project, and calling for the neighbor island bidding process to start from scratch. Molokai News.

Hawaii's major hospitals are collaborating to launch the first statewide nurse residency program this summer in an effort to keep more registered nurses in the profession. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers agree that with the help of some sort of financing program, Hawaii residents would be able to easily purchase solar power and energy-saving appliances with no upfront cost. Hawaii Independent.

Rosen Auctions will auction off forfeited property for the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General Saturday, April 30, at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center’s Pikake Room. Pacific Business News

The county Board of Ethics has dismissed additional complaints against Maui County Council Member Mike White over his ties with the visitor industry, White's office announced Friday. Maui News.

Unable to afford its planned Keaau shopping center and unable to fill a bigger one, Puna's biggest private landowner is eying other locations while pursuing smaller developments. Tribune-Herald.

The 48th Merrie Monarch Festival ended Saturday night with musical tributes to the beauty of the islands, the tenderness of love in full bloom and homages aplenty to the last royals of Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii tourism brightens, reapportionment commission already at odds, state looks to car rental fees, fishponds opened by tsunami, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hapuna Beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Legislature has adopted a resolution urging the governor not to transfer Hapuna Beach State Park to Hawaii County. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii hotels were three-fourths full during the week ending April 16, and most island’s average room rates were higher compared to the same week in 2010, according to data from Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

Hunting for a ready source of cash to help balance the budget, state lawmakers might divert some of the daily surcharges that tourists and others pay on rental cars. Star-Advertiser.

With just a few weeks left before the legislature adjourns, there's a battle brewing between state lawmakers and the teacher's union.Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is stepping in to pick a leader of the group charged with redrawing election district lines after it failed to agree on a chairperson itself. Associated Press.

Voting districts across the state will be changed within the year. It's a process that takes place by law every ten years by law. KHON2.

With one Constitutional deadline already missed and another bearing down on them, the state's Reapportionment Commission is asking for more time. Civil Beat.

The state Supreme Court began soliciting for nominees yesterday to lead the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission after the eight sitting members announced they have been unable to reach consensus on a ninth member to serve as chairman. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is looking at ways to close a projected 100 million dollar budget gap. Hawaii Public Radio.

Visitor industry leaders appealed to Maui County Council members on Wednesday not to raise their property tax rates. Maui News.

The state Land Use Commission on Thursday affirmed its decision to revert land owned by Bridge Aina Lea and DW Aina Lea to agriculture. West Hawaii Today.

Don Horner doesn't sit on the board of every nonprofit and key organization in the state. Star-Advertiser.

Lawsuits describing “deplorable and hazardous” living conditions at the state-owned Mayor Wright Homes project were filed in state and federal court today, alleging that residents, including severely disabled individuals, have endured years of rat, roach and bedbug infestations, leaky and broken pipes, and “an almost total lack of hot water.” Hawaii Reporter.

"The state is the largest landlord in this state. It's also by far the largest slum lord in the state." Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle on Thursday appointed Robert Godbey as the new corporation counsel for the city. KITV4.

Less than a week after the Kaua‘i Planning Commission granted permits to allow Phase II of the Anaina Hou Project in Kilauea to go forward, the Executive Committee of Kaua‘i’s Sierra Club expressed its concerns in writing. Garden Island.

Kohala kupuna and state biologists are hoping a breach created by the March 11 tsunami at the Kuualii fish pond may turn into a permanent ocean opening. West Hawaii Today.

Donations are needed at Keawanui Fishpond to help restore the walls, after the March 11 tsunami. Molokai Dispatch.

Data released Wednesday morning by the Environmental Protection Agency reveal that radiation levels found in Big Isle milk have dropped by more than half. Tribune-Herald.

Community colleges in Hawaii expect to slash their energy use by nearly one-quarter and save a combined $58 million over the next 20 years due to conservation measures they are adopting. Associated Press.

EEOC farmworker lawsuit hits six Hawaii farms, Hawaii County passes $56M bond issue, Gov. Abercrombie, Maui mayor calling for tax hikes, community college chancellor candidates woo Big Island, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Gender equity bill on governor's desk a bookend to civil unions bill earlier in session. Civil Beat.

Federal authorities have filed a civil lawsuit accusing six Hawaii farms of "unlawful employment practices" in association with federally indicted farm labor contractor Global Horizons Manpower Inc. Star-Advertiser.

A federal agency calls it the largest human trafficking lawsuit ever against the agriculture industry. KHON2.

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Files Lawsuit in Thai Human Trafficking Case, but Defendants, Attorneys Question Timing, Motives Hawaii Reporter.

Captain Cook Coffee Co. and MacFarms of Hawaii were two of six Hawaii farms named in a human trafficking lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission announced Wednesday that it has filed its largest agricultural human trafficking lawsuit against labor contractor Global Horizons and eight farms, including Kaua‘i Coffee Company. Garden Island.

A federal agency has sued a California-based labor contractor and farms in Washington and Hawaii alleging discrimination against more than 200 Thai workers in what it has called its largest human trafficking case in agriculture to date. Associated Press.

House and Senate negotiators meeting in conference committees are agreeing on a few bills that will now get final floor votes. Garden Island.

With the budget year mostly over, Hawaii state tax revenue is up less than inflation, sharpening the state budget crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Golden Week in Hawaii will lose some of its shine this year. Hawaii News Now.

Verbatim: Abercrombie email says moving forward means raising taxes. Hawaii Independent.

Teachers bombarded state Sen. Jill Tokuda's office with hundreds of calls and more than 1,200 emails yesterday, concerned that a law aimed at lengthening public school days would require them to work longer hours without more pay. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii and various Hawaii public schools plan to donate textbooks and bookshelves to public libraries in Micronesia suffering from budget cuts. Associated Press.

The Honolulu City Council held a marathon session day over a combination of spending cuts and hikes in taxes and fees. KHON2.

Mayor Alan Arakawa is calling for a smaller increase in property tax rates than he originally proposed. Maui News.

County Clerk Peter Nakamura’s mayoral re-appointment and subsequent Kaua‘i County Council confirmation in December stirred controversy after two council members questioned a pay raise that pushed his salary slightly past the mayor’s. Garden Island.

Comments among County Council members got a bit heated Wednesday morning, but by lunchtime, the council gave the final approval to a $56 million bond. West Hawaii Today.

The cost to build Honolulu's rail transit system has decreased to $5.3 billion from $5.5 billion, according to the latest draft of the city's financial plan, released yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Complaints that Maui County Council Member Mike White acted improperly when he called for more funding for the Maui Visitors Bureau have been dismissed by the county Board of Ethics. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Wednesday presented Hawaii Green Business Office and Government awards to eight institutions. Pacific Business News

“I felt like I was cleaning the rubbish off the reef,” said Dicky Dowling, who speared 46 roi for first place honors in last weekend’s Molokai Roi Tournament. Molokai Dispatch.

Working together will help move Hawaii Community College into the future, four finalists seeking the college's chancellor position emphasized during a forum held Wednesday in Kealakekua. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii residents got their first chance Tuesday to interact with the final four candidates vying for the chancellorship of Hawaii Community College. Tribune-Herald.

For many of the 52,000 local Bank of America mortgage holders who have lost–or could lose–their houses due to the bank’s nationwide frenzy of mortgage foreclosures, the possibility of being houseless is terrifying. Honolulu Weekly.

University of Hawaii officials, UH medical students and contractors gathered Wednesday to bless the university's Cancer Center in Kakaako at the medical school. KITV4.

Hawai’i got its first news that radioisotopes from the Japanese nuclear crisis had appeared in local food on April 10, when the Environmental Protection Agency posted results of testing on milk from a Big Island dairy. Big Island Weekly.

Oahu gas tax hike debated, state taxes still alive in Legislature, Maui dengue cases increase, Honolulu fireworks ban could affect neighbor island supply, bill could revive Ka'u biomass plant, more

Hawaii Capitol

The largest remaining tax measures pending before Hawaii lawmakers would eliminate business exemptions, raise car rental fees and take hotel tax money from the counties. Associated Press.

There are more than two-dozen tax bills still alive at the Hawaii State Capitol. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie made a final push to keep legislation alive that would fund programs and policies that support his fiscal plan. KITV4.

The state collected more than $190 million in general excise taxes in February, but overall, general fund deposits are down. KHON2.

Hawaii general fund deposits for February were down 4 percent compared to the same month in 2010, according to a report from the Hawaii Department of Taxation. Pacific Business News

It's been relatively calm on Hawaii's home foreclosure front during the past several months, but the storm could soon return. Star-Advertiser.

A hearing on proposed fees and fee increases for city facilities and services drew only a handful of interested citizens Wednesday at Honolulu Hale.KITV4.

A proposal to increase the city’s gasoline tax by 1 cent per gallon has advanced in the City Council, but appears unlikely to go much further. Star-Advertiser.

Politicians are getting feisty over rail transit money and some are turning on each other as there are accusations of greed and skimming off the top. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Managing Director Doug Chin said Oahu residents can expect to see "a lot more road work" between now and the end of the fiscal year on June 30. Civil Beat.

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

The intent of a draft commercial air tour management plan for Haleakala National Park got a thumbs up Tuesday evening as those attending a public meeting agreed that regulations should be in place to limit or prevent impacts to the park, its visitors and resources. Maui News.

Hawaii taxpayers are covering a quarter of the cost of a new solar parking canopy project for Oceanic Time Warner Cable. KITV4.

New bill could breathe new life into Pahala biofuel project. Big Island Weekly.

Kaua‘i Fire Chief Robert Westerman on Monday told County Council members that despite financial and operational challenges the department has achieved improvements and will implement initiatives for Fiscal Year 2012, which starts July 1. Garden Island.

The county Office of the County Auditor is requesting a 34 percent budget increase for next fiscal year, which starts July 1. Garden Island.

The underground storage facility in Waikele where five Donaldson Enterprises employees were killed during a violent explosion Friday morning was being used by the company to prepare highly explosive fireworks for final disposal, an investigator from the U.S. Chemical Safety Board said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu is the only county with a fireworks ban, but the neighbor islands may soon find it very difficult to purchase most consumer fireworks.KHON2.

Over a month after more than 150 dogs were seized in a puppy farm raid in Waimanalo, the Hawaiian Humane Society still has custody of them. Hawaii News Now.

Picture the Hawaii Island Humane Society's Kona Shelter. West Hawaii Today.

Something is out of place at many of Molokai’s fishponds – many of their rocks. Molokai Dispatch.

The engineering firm that designed a $1.9 million water tank officials say is defective has been considered for 18 additional county contracts but was awarded only one since the county filed a lawsuit against it. West Hawaii Today.

What is our capacity to endure? That’s the question that living sustainably asks of us. Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii Legislature advancing tax hikes, company sues over Honolulu fireworks ban, Kauai OKs development, industry coming to Lualualei valley, more Hawaii news

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Putting homeless to work. KITV4.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering tax increases amid hundreds of bills getting votes Tuesday as the Legislature enters the final weeks of this year's session facing deep budget difficulties. Associated Press.

The state Senate approved its version of the budget yesterday and grudgingly agreed to suspend general excise tax exemptions on several business activities to help make it balance. Star-Advertiser.

The state House of Representatives today passed bills to tax well-to-do pensioners, boost liquor and motor vehicle taxes, eliminate numerous existing tax exemptions, and impose 10 cent fees on plastic and paper shopping bags. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are hearing from legal experts about a national project designed to increase public safety, reduce prison spending and create alternate criminal justice strategies. Associated Press.

Poll finds favorable, unfavorable politicians. Hawaii News Now.

Taxes were on the agenda at the Honolulu City Council, particularly property taxes and how to handle certain rate and exemptions. KHON2.

The city Office of Economic Development and Mayor’s Office of Culture and the Arts remain on the chopping block after a recommendation by the City Council’s Budget Committee yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Executive assistants hired temporarily by the City and County of Honolulu make more money than most of their civil engineer, police officer, project manager and chemist counterparts. Civil Beat.

Hawaii charities strained by support for Japan. Hawaii News Now.

A deal has been reached to bring back the symphony in Honolulu. KHON2.

A fireworks import and wholesale company is going to court to block the city from enforcing its recent fireworks ban. Star-Advertiser.

A glut of distressed properties, both from foreclosures and short sales, continued to weigh down Maui real estate prices in the first quarter of this year, real estate experts said Monday. Maui News.

The county Planning Commission on Tuesday unanimously approved the necessary permits for Anaina Hou to proceed with the next phase of an increasingly controversial project in Kilauea. Garden Island.

She's not calling it by that name, but Ka'u Councilwoman Brittany Smart is asking for a development moratorium in Ka'u until a planning group comes up with a community development plan the County Council can agree upon. West Hawaii Today.

The State Land Use Commission’s (LUC) decision to allow a light industrial park to be built on Lualualei valley farmland has been rescheduled for April 20 or 21 due to voting constraints. Hawaii Independent.

The Small Business Administration on Tuesday announced it will offer low-interest federal disaster loans to Maui County businesses that sustained damage from the March tsunami. KITV4.

Got milk? Then you may have radiation from the damaged nuclear reactors in Japan … but only a "minute" amount. Hawaii News Now.

Food and Drug Administration inspections of food being brought to Hawaii and other parts of the country from Japan are showing no increases in radiation levels, an FDA spokeswoman said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Marine biologists are taking a "wait-and-see" approach before deciding what to do with an unwanted visitor that washed up near the Wai Opae tidepools in Puna. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii tax hike nixed, union contract under fire, birther suit rejected, journalism shield law extended, dengue fears widen, education board pau, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu tour bus (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A Norwegian Cruise Line company is bringing seven open-top, double-decker tour buses to Honolulu, a move that's expected to add 60 jobs in the islands. Associated Press.

The Senate Ways and Means Committee voted Thursday to kill a proposal to raise Hawaii's broadest tax. Hawaii News Now.

The Ways and Means Committee killed a hike in the general excise tax after the chairman faced a rare revolt from some committee members Thursday morning. KITV4.

A general excise tax hike has been killed by lawmakers, but businesses and nonprofits still may face a $200 million jump in taxes. KHON2.

Thursday's decision by the Senate Ways and Means committee to rule out a general excise tax increase means lawmakers may have to strengthen at least a dozen surviving revenue bills to close the state's budget gap. Civil Beat.

The Abercrombie administration agreed to a “favored nation” clause in a tentative contract with the Hawaii Government Employees Association that gives the union the ability to match gains won by other unions, sources say. Star-Advertiser.

State Republicans are calling the tentative agreement with HGEA "expensive and unfair" and say how its being pitched deceptive and misleading. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle says city officials “still have many questions and concerns” about the statewide labor agreement reached by Governor Neil Abercrombie with Hawaii’s largest government workers union. Hawaii Reporter.

Questions linger around HGEA contract agreement. Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie Thursday identified 61 capital improvement projects that are currently under way as part of his New Day Works Projects, which are meant to create jobs and stimulate the economy. Pacific Business News

The economic crisis that refuses to leave the Hawaiian Islands has not been sufficient to sink the idea of a state-run interisland ferry system, introduced this year through a bill sailing through rough waters in the Legislature. Garden Island.

Measures that would have provided state funds to the Kaho'olawe Island Reserve Commission have stalled for this year, after legislators raised questions about the agency's management of the island. Maui News.

The Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced a bill extending the state’s journalism shield law an additional two years. Star-Advertiser.

It is the end of the road for the elected board members, many of whom have given much of their time to try and improve the state's public school system. KITV4.

A Hawaii appeals court has rejected a man's request to "inspect and copy" Honolulu-born President Barack Obama's birth certificate, saying the plaintiff failed to state a valid claim to having access to the document. KITV4.

For the third straight year, Hawaii County is facing one of the most difficult budgeting processes in the local government's history, Mayor Billy Kenoi told West Hawaii residents Thursday night. West Hawaii Today.

About 70 current and former boat owners expressed anger and frustration yesterday with their inability to get help for their losses in last month's tsunami. Star-Advertiser.

Two women were rescued from a remote Hawaiian beach after a tour helicopter spotted "S.O.S." written in the sand. Associated Press.

It will take years, but Hawaii ultimately will bear a heavy burden from floating debris from the March 11 tsunami in Japan, Hawaii researchers conclude. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island sending love to Japan. Tribune-Herald.

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will sail through the Hawaiian Islands, with a 15-night cruise departing the Port of Los Angeles on April 29, 2012. KHON2.

The state Department of Health is investigating two suspected East Maui cases of dengue fever, a potentially deadly tropical disease. Maui News.

A California company planning to build and operate a wind farm on Maui's Ulupalakua Ranch has agreed to sell electricity to Maui's power company. Associated Press.

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

Hawaii fisherman (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bag ban violations under investigation. Maui News.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courthouse in Wailuku needs fixing. Maui News.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii profits from gas hikes, Army assures helicopter training won't harm Mauna Kea, Maui mayor cutting workforce, Hawaii Five-0 honored, House committee kills ethics changes, more news

The Tax Foundation reports Hawai‘i is one of nine U.S. states that siphons off more tax revenue when gas prices rise. Garden Island.

The Hawaii State Legislature Thursday honored CBS and Hawaii Five-O Thursday for engaging a new era of viewers and showcasing the beauty of the islands as never seen before. Hawaii News Now.

House Republicans have come out with their own budget plan that they say won't rely on new taxes in the biennium. KHON2.

A much-discussed measure that would have eased ethical restrictions on state legislators and employees appears dead after being deferred today by a House committee. Hawaii Reporter.

A state senate committee has approved a resolution that would reopen a correctional facility at Kulani on the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

The state Health Department is investigating 12 new cases of suspected dengue fever since a medical alert for the mosquito-borne viral illness was issued last week. Star-Advertiser.

A Senate bill banning the use of restraints on pregnant inmates during childbirth has cleared two key House committees. Star-Advertiser.

Army officials readily accepted fault for community concerns and misconceptions surrounding a plan to increase helicopter training exercises from Pohakuloa Training Area to landing zones on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu City Council Plans "Significant Cuts" to Mayor's Budget . Civil Beat.

To help gain control of the county's pension liabilities, Mayor Alan Arakawa hopes to reduce the number of county employees through attrition by about 7 percent by the end of his first year in office. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa said Wednesday that the county could eventually trim as many as 150 employees per year from the county work force through attrition. Maui News.

Time-share industry leaders turned out Wednesday to protest a proposal that would increase their property tax rates.Maui News.

Chalk up DARE, the drug abuse prevention program that sends officers into schools, as another casualty of the tough fiscal times. Star-Advertiser.

The county really needs the money, but it's so far been able to recoup only $370,000 of more than $1.4 million seriously past due from garbage haulers. West Hawaii Today.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, now the president of the Hawaii Hotel & Lodging Association, joins us now to talk about Japan Airlines cutting back flights and other tourism issues. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines said it is not reducing flights to Japan even though other airlines have done so after this month's magnitude 9.0 earthquake and tsunamis. Associated Press.

Matson Navigation Co. on Thursday announced a new fuel surcharge hike, the third since February. KITV4.

One of Hawaii’s last venerable Big Five companies, Alexander & Baldwin Inc., could be under pressure to break itself up. Star-Advertiser.

More than seven out of every 10 Hawaii hotel rooms were full during the week ending March 26, and average room rates were higher compared to a year ago except on the Big Island, according to Smith Travel Research and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News

HECO said it would start pouring locally grown biofuels in its generators in a few years. It signed a contract with a company for 300 million gallons of biofuel. Hawaii Public Radio.

A Kilauea teacher fears vegetables she grows with her homeschool group could be laden with arsenic and dioxin left over from pesticides mixed at the former Kilauea Sugar Mill. Garden Island.

April is Tsunami Awareness Month in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Hawaii Senate considers broad tax hike and delaying refunds, Hawaii council members call for furloughs, office buildings, Maui Ritz-Carlton on the block, more news

Northwestern Hawaiian Islands

An initial assessment of damage at Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (Northwestern Hawaiian Islands) shows the tsunami that hit late on the evening of March 10 and early in the morning on March 11 did "tens of millions" of dollars in damage to infrastructure. Hawaii News Now.

Tsunamis generated by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake off Japan earlier this month swept up a one week-old Hawaiian monk seal pup and separated her from her mother at a remote atoll northwest of the main Hawaiian islands, but a state wildlife worker managed to reunite the pair shortly after. Associated Press.

Hawaii senators on Monday discussed raising taxes on everyone by increasing the general excise tax, the state's version of the sales tax that's paid on most transactions. Associated Press.

Closing this fiscal year's budget gap could include delayed tax refunds for the second year in a row. KHON2.

Facing lower tax collections due to falling Japanese tourism, the state Senate must cut deeper and potentially raise taxes on more residents than was proposed just three weeks ago by the state House.KITV4.

The senator in charge of finalizing the state's budget says Hawaii lawmakers have just two options to balance this year's budget: raid special funds or "completely shut down spending." Civil Beat.

State senators, growing impatient with the lack of budget details from Gov. Neil Abercrombie, asked yesterday when the governor plans to fulfill his campaign promise to restructure state government to help with the fiscal crunch. Star-Advertiser.

The state’s short and long-term fiscal crises appear to be …in one lawmaker’s words … pretty dismal. Hawaii Public Radio.

Representatives from all state departments and major agencies came before the senate ways and means committee to plead their cases for their share of state spending. KHON2.

Reality check. That is what Hawaii Senate Ways and Means committee members, and state administration officials, got today during an exchange between senators and the state budget director, Kalbert Young. Hawaii Reporter.

The poker bill going through the capitol is not a lottery or casino. Hawaii News Now.

The decision by Japan Airlines to slash flights to Hawaii by one-third adds to the challenges faced by the state's leading industry since the earthquake, tsunami and radiation scare crippled its No. 3 visitor market. Star-Advertiser.

Former Congressman Charles Djou said Sunday he's waiting to learn if fellow Republican Linda Lingle will run for U.S. Senate in 2012 before plotting his own political future.Tribune-Herald.

A resolution that urges the salary commission to forgo raises for city council members was passed unanimously Monday in committee. KHON2.

Three Hawaii County Council leaders said Monday during an hour-long back-and-forth with Mayor Billy Kenoi they think employee furloughs should continue, with Finance Committee Chairwoman Brenda Ford calling for a 4 percent reduction in force if they don't. West Hawaii Today.

In its continuing efforts to encourage the public to provide input on the future of Kaua‘i’s parks, officials said in a news release Monday that the county is conducting a survey through May 31. Garden Island.

Mayor Alan Arakawa released the Maui County budget for fiscal year (FY) 2012 to the Maui County Council for review a few weeks ago – $632 million. Arakawa also presented revenue of $686.7 million, an increase of $59.9 million compared to FY 2011. Molokai Dispatch.

The largest owner of office buildings in Honolulu is considering selling its portfolio of six properties, a move that could result in a new dominant landlord controlling nearly 10 percent of the market. Star-Advertiser.

The Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua will be sold at a foreclosure auction in May. Pacific Business News

Hawaii's highly decorated Japanese-American veterans of World War II prepared on Monday to receive what will likely be their final official commendation: the Congressional Gold Medal. KITV4.

The Honolulu Zoo's three tiger cubs had new homes lined up, but now those plans have changed. Hawaii News Now.

A recent AARP Hawaii survey of employed adults age 50 and up shows two thirds of them say they’ll work much longer if the economy doesn’t improve. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii House moves budget, governor proposes tech czar, Honolulu symphony assets on auction block today, Maui postpones end to furloughs, Honolulu 30% gas tax hike proposed, Kauai mayor wants 12% budget increase, tsunami relief, more news

Puuhonua o Honaunau Photo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Powerful tsunami surges hit Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, stole the sand and uncovered "cultural and historical evidence," including sites where posts once stood and fires ignited, said Eric Andersen, the park's chief of interpretation. West Hawaii Today.

The state House yesterday approved its draft of the two-year state budget, but with an asterisk. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie is saying that he's "flexible" on raising the state's general excise tax, its broadest source of tax income. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie is establishing a new Office of Information Management and Technology, assisted by a $3 million grant from e-Bay founder Pierre Omidyar. Pacific Business News

A $3 million effort to modernize the state's computer and technology systems aims to streamline core governmental functions and eliminate redundancy across departments, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said yesterday in announcing the public-private partnership.Star-Advertiser.

The chairman of the Council on Revenues says the effects of the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear power plant crisis could materially affect Hawaii tax revenues, a development that would exacerbate the state budget shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

Governor Neil Abercrombie said Wednesday the state will be agressive and not "lie down" and accept the consequences of falling Japanese tourism. KITV4.

The Governor says the tragic tsunami in Japan … …the nuclear threat there and the potentially long road to recovery are foremost in the minds of state leaders.Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Postal Service in Hawaii has begun checking mail arriving from Japan after mail in San Francisco and New York showed low levels of radiation, USPS officials said. KITV4.

So what’s all the potassium iodide hype about? Hawaii Independent.

Island banks are teaming to serve as collection points for the "Aloha for Japan" relief effort. KHON2.

The Hawaii Ethics Commission today opposed a bill that would loosen restrictions on gift-giving to public officials, including legislators. Hawaii Reporter.

Ron Tam and Ed Watamura are just two of the state's many commercial and recreational fishermen who disagree with the state's outright ban on bottom fishing in a dozen so-called spawning areas. Hawaii News Now.

The defunct Honolulu Symphony’s assets will be auctioned beginning at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Waikiki Resort Hotel. Assets include its music library, two grand pianos and other instruments. Pacific Business News

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is working to correct recent Big Isle customers' electric bills that were higher than normal following the company's use of estimated meter readings while utility workers were on strike. West Hawaii Today.

The Honolulu City Council advanced measures to raise the gas tax 30 percent over three years. KHON2.

The mayor's proposed city budget for the 2012 fiscal year reached the city council Wednesday and was criticized for raising fees and taxes while showing no effort to reorganize city priorities or cut waste. KITV4.

Mayor Peter Carlisle is recommending setting aside more than $43 million to fund 1,095 vacant positions as part of his operating budget for next year. Civil Beat.

Mayor Peter Carlisle’s administration has informed the City Council that it won’t be submitting an operating or capital improvement budget for the rail project in the upcoming year, saying instead that will be the purview a new authority that begins work on July 1. Hawaii Reporter.

A proposal to end furlough days for Maui County workers was deferred without objection Tuesday afternoon by members of the County Council's Budget and Finance Committee. Maui News.

Kauai mayor's budget proposal up 12% over current fiscal year. Garden Island.

In the face of a gloomy economy and uncertain impacts from the disaster in Japan, Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr.’s administration has put forward an operating budget for next fiscal year that would almost entirely clean up the county’s reserve fund. Garden Island.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie made a brief visit to Maalaea Harbor on Tuesday afternoon to assess damage at the state's small-boat harbor, one of the areas hardest hit by last week's earthquake-generated tsunami. Maui News.

County Council members on Tuesday took a step toward rescinding their endorsement of selling 737 acres in Paauilo to balance the county budget. Tribune-Herald.

Authorities say lava-ignited fires from a volcano eruption in Hawaii continue to spread across Volcanoes National Park. Associated Press.

We're happy and we know it, Kilauea amazes, unions have deal, Legislature takes up tax and spend bills, Kauai County sinks money in golf course, news from the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea photo USGS Hawaii Volcano Observatory

Sun and waves might be good for the soul, according to a new national survey naming Hawaii as tops in well-being among U.S. states — but the sunshine doesn't necessarily elbow out Northern Lights and snow, as Alaska also made the top 10 happiest states list. KHON2.

The happiest man in America likes to laugh and be intellectually stimulated, lives with a frisky, oversize puppy, cooks kosher meals for young scholars at his home in Manoa — and enjoys the love of a good woman he's been married to for the last 35 years. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors are flocking to the Big Island's Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to get a glimpse of the lava that is spewing from the fissure near Pu'u O'o crater. KITV4.

After wandering Kilauea Volcano's flanks for the past 28 years, Madame Pele has returned to where she started one of the world's most active lava flows. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s Legislature is nearing the halfway point in its annual session. Senate Bill 1274, a healthcare bill to reconcile the State with the federal Affordable Care Act means some nuanced aspects of healthcare as we now know it in Hawaii may change. Hawaii Independent.

Five of Democratic Gov. Neil Abercrombie's Cabinet appointees are still awaiting Senate hearings and confirmation votes, months after most of them were nominated in December. Associated Press.

The Hawaii State House Minority Caucus met for eight hours Monday mapping out their votes as the Legislature moves toward crossover deadlines this week. Hawaii Reporter.

One of the options lawmakers may be considering is a proposal to temporarily suspend existing exemptions from the general excise tax. West Hawaii Today.

Three years after the Hawaii Senate went paperless, the House hasn't followed suit. Civil Beat.

Roughly 1,300 striking Hawaiian Electric Co. workers could be back to work by the end of this week if they approve a tentative agreement reached yesterday by negotiators for the company and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1260. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Electric Co. union workers began picketing at the company's Kahului main office Sunday for the first time since the union called a strike Friday afternoon. Maui News.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa union workers, who have been without a contract since June, have reached a tentative agreement with the company and will vote today on whether to accept it. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu plans to close Keaau beach park on the Waianae Coast this week and force out about the homeless who live there. Associated Press.

Traffic was snarled and ground floor businesses near the intersection of Royal Hawaiian Avenue and Kuhio Avenue were flooded late Monday morning when a 12" water main broke under Royal Hawaiian Avenue. Hawaii News Now.

Prices of condominiums on the Big Island and Kauai fell in February, even though the number of units sold saw a healthy increase. Pacific Business News

Wailua Golf Course was once the highest-ranked municipal course in the nation. Garden Island.