New polling shows tight races, Mufi steps up, federal judgeship stalled, marijuana messiah stays in prison, Hawaii retirees hurting, more news from all the islands

We live in the most beautiful place on the planet - a blessing, and yet, in some ways, not so much. KHON2.

The latest Hawaii Poll shows Democratic former congressman Neil Abercrombie holding a lead over Republican Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona in the race for governor. Hawaii News Now.

Gubernatorial candidates James "Duke" Aiona and Neil Abercrombie continue to be rated favorably by a majority of voters, according to a new poll that also shows their lesser-known running mates trailing slightly behind. Star-Advertiser.

President of International Transformation Network writes Civil Beat to "help present a more constructive picture to build much needed bridges." Civil Beat.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann came out on Maui on Wednesday and at a Democratic party rally on Oahu Saturday to strongly back his former rival, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie. KITV4.

Gov. Linda Lingle's job approval rating has climbed, a new Hawaii Poll has found, but more than half of voters still disapprove of the way she is handling the challenges facing Hawaii as she prepares to leave office after two four-year terms. Star-Advertiser.

The race for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District seat is too close to call. The latest poll numbers show Charles Djou and Colleen Hanabusa are virtually tied with a little more than a week to go until the general election. Hawaii News Now.

Both come from families of immigrants. Both grew up in Hawaii. Both are lawyers who rose to power in elected office. Associated Press.

Nine days and counting until the General Election. KHON2.

Candidates at Saturday's Democratic rally hosted at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu weren't just taking the stage to stump. KITV4.

Fewer than 300 votes separated Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares from challenger Alan Arakawa in the September primary, and their runoff contest for the county's top job is expected to be close as well. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic state Sen. Shan Tsutsui is starting to sound a bit like his Central Maui compatriot, the former state House speaker and still-very-active Rep. Joe Souki, 77. Maui News.

Political newcomer Dean Schmucker says he's running against longtime State Rep. Joe Souki to give voters in his district the option to choose a "conservative candidate." Maui News.

Hawaii County Council District 5 was one of only two council races left undecided after the Sept. 18 primary. And as happened in the other race, a challenger came out slightly ahead of the incumbent in a crowded field. West Hawaii Today.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is expected to arrive in Honolulu this Wednesday. KHON2.

The confirmation of President Barack Obama's appointment of U.S. Magistrate Leslie Kobayashi as a U.S. district judge to fill a 15-month-old vacancy has been delayed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's court system, the third branch of state government, has more than 1,900 employees, and payroll makes up almost three-fourths of its $137.8 million annual budget. Civil Beat.

Cost of life: One in four Hawaii retirees over 65 depends almost entirely on Social Security. Hawaii Independent.

Federal tax fraud charges, an IRS investigation into a $14 million secret account in Switzerland, a state criminal case for 7 manslaughter counts, a host of civil lawsuits and a record for the worst environmental criminal convictions against an individual in Hawaii’s history. Hawaii Reporter.

The tradition of Friday night football on Kaua‘i has been disrupted by an unusual culprit: Young seabirds migrating to the ocean mistake stadium lights for the moon and stars, causing them to become disoriented, drop from the sky and fall prey to cats and dogs. Associated Press.

Knowledge was passed hand to hand through Kapaau town Saturday morning as residents from around the Big Island came together to move thousands of books to the new North Kohala Public Library. West Hawaii Today.

Health officials have determined that what looked like brown sludge floating off Oahu's South Shore earlier this week was a natural algae bloom. Associated Press.

In response to the threat posed by the coffee berry borer, state agriculture officials are preparing to establish a quarantine on the transport of green coffee beans from South Kona. Tribune-Herald.

While most county employees were furloughed two days a month to save money, the county still racked up almost $2 million in overtime over a three-month period. West Hawaii Today.

Hepatitis is a silent epidemic in Hawaii – the state has the highest rate of live cancer in the U.S. caused by hepatitis B and C. Molokai Dispatch.

State Attorney General Mark Bennett and Stephen Levins, executive director of the Office of Consumer Protection, last week announced that Hawaii has joined a multi-state effort to address practices by mortgage loan servicers that appear to be in violation of state laws. Lahaina News.

They emerged as seven brothers, entering the Kaua‘i Police Department at a time of great need and change, according to Chief Darryl Perry. Garden Island.

A Hilo marijuana activist and minister facing a federal trial next April for allegedly operating a pot distribution ring has been denied bail a fourth time -- and his girlfriend has broken her silence on the subject. Tribune-Herald.

Foodland Super Market Ltd. has launched a "Take the Bag Challenge" at all its Foodland, Sack N Save and Foodland Farm stores aimed at reducing its plastic and paper bag usage by 25 million bags at all stores next year. Maui News.

A blessing ceremony is slated for the University of Hawaii at Manoa campus to mark the completion of a new research facility called C-MORE Hale. Associated Press.

Hawaii Gov. Lingle takes 'serious' look at 2012 Senate seat, feds ban campaign money limits, charter school enrollment up, more on food stamps, Honolulu voter confidentiality breached, UH rally boosts voting, Hawaii Five-0 set for season, more

In a performance worthy of the excruciatingly slow decision-making process of former Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Gov. Linda Lingle is toying with a run for the U.S. Senate in 2012. Star-Advertiser.

 The two top candidates for urban Honolulu's congressional seat argued about spending for social security benefits in their last live, televised debate before the election Thursday night. KITV4.


An independent expenditure committee called Working Families For Hawaii has launched a TV ad portraying GOP congressional candidate Charles Djou as a lock-step Republican who votes to hurt Hawaii. KITV4.

The two candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District have sparred over the economy, government spending and senior citizen programs such as Social Security and Medicare. Associated Press.


 A federal court’s decision to stop the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission from enforcing a limit on contributions received by political committees doing only independent spending for political speech will remain in effect for now, according to the federal appeals court. Hawaii Reporter.

Non-partisan ‘Use Your Voice, Use Your Vote’ rally at UH Manoa raises voter awareness. Hawaii Independent.

More Hawaii working families getting government food aid. Associated Press.

Hawaii didn't fare too well in a new national survey of policies covering how mothers and expectant mothers are treated in prison. Associated Press.

Stimulus supporting state energy storage. Maui News.

Molokai General Hospital (MGH) has recently completed installation of the largest solar electricity generation system on the island. Molokai Dispatch.

Aunty Puanani Lindsey shares a pule/oli (prayer/chant) for the Earth with those joining her on weekly volunteer service trips to malama (care for) Honokowai Valley or Hanaula. Lahaina News.

Next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Honolulu is expected to generate some $120 million in economic impact for Hawaii. Associated Press.

Teen traffic deaths have declined dramatically over the past six years. KHON2.

New Honolulu Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro has added three new deputy prosecutors including a former legislator who was convicted of drunken driving and the Honolulu police chief's wife. KITV4.

Former lawmaker joining Honolulu prosecutor's office. KHON2.

Hawaii Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu is taking a job in the Honolulu city prosecutor's office after an unsuccessful run for lieutenant governor. Associated Press.

The Honolulu office of elections promises to protect the confidentiality of voters who face life threatening circumstances, but Civil Beat has learned that it doesn't live up to its word. Civil Beat.

The race to represent Puna makai on the Hawaii County Council is between a colorful, two-term incumbent and a retired businessman. Tribune-Herald.

The number of students attending public charter schools statewide continued to grow this year, even though no new campuses opened, while enrollment at regular public schools was largely unchanged. Star-Advertiser.

Public school enrollment on the Big Island continued its slow decline this year. Tribune-Herald.

Ryan Ozawa may well be the most influential social media maven in Hawaii, although one is hard-pressed to get him to admit it. Hawaii Independent.

Pesky problem apparently wiped out in Maui. KHON2.

Waikiki hotels ran fuller last week despite a strike at Hilton Hawaiian Village, and occupancy also rose in Maui County, but fell on Kauai and the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

A federal bankruptcy judge in New York has approved a reorganization for General Growth Properties that will split it into two companies. Hawaii News Now.

An envisioned high-rise condominium on top of the Nordstrom parking garage at Ala Moana Center will be one project taken over by a major new player in Honolulu's condominium development scene, as part of the bankruptcy reorganization of mall owner General Growth Properties. Star-Advertiser.

Bad news for the terrorists, gang lords and street scum running amok in town: CBS Television gave "Hawaii Five-0" yesterday a full 22-episode season to fight crime. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii County Council accepted a pared-down slate of exemptions for a North Kona affordable housing development, but delayed approving the document until county officials and developers have more time to review and refine the request. West Hawaii Today.

The County Council on Wednesday approved an amended Puna Community Development Plan that's now headed to Mayor Billy Kenoi's desk. Tribune-Herald.

At Kapa‘a High School, Christine Farina has taken part in an organization to help teach her economics class what business is all about. Garden Island.

Maui County Council members voted 6-2 late Tuesday to approve the Kula Ridge project that promises to build 59 affordable homes for senior citizens and single families. Maui News.

Obama, 'Lost' star, promote Hawaii Democrats, humpback whales return, affordable housing coming to Maui, Hawaii park fees begin, Kahuku wind farm moving forward, more news from the islands

President Obama appears in new television advertisements for U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie for governor and state Senate President Colleen Hanabusa for U.S. Congress as local Democrats try to seize on the Hawaii-born president's popularity in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama is supporting Democratic gubernatorial nominee Neil Abercrombie in a new TV ad. KHON2.

Actor Daniel Day Kim plays Chin Ho Kelly on the blockbuster remake of Hawaii 5-0, but the former Pennsylvania native turned Hawaii resident, has another role in the islands – advocating for the Democratic Party this election. Hawaii Reporter.

There are new attacks and counter-attacks in the race for Governor. Hawaii News Now.

Governor candidate Duke Aiona on Wednesday said Neil Abercrombie's campaign is using social networking to spread false information about his relationship with a controversial religious group. KITV4.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, the Republican candidate for governor, claimed yesterday that former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, his Democratic opponent, has engaged in negative campaigning by spreading a video that links him to an international evangelical network with controversial views about homosexuality. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona charged Wednesday that a senior member of the Neil Abercrombie campaign has brought "an extreme level of negative campaigning" into the governor election. Civil Beat.

Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou and Democrat Colleen Hanabusa are battling over Hawaii's 1st Congressional District, but there's a third person at work in the Nov. 2 general election: Ed Case. Associated Press.

Voters will be asked to decide on an appointed school board and forming a transit authority for the rail but there are plenty of other important questions on this ballot that could trip up voters if they don't do some research. Hawaii News Now.

Retaining the counties' portion of the Transient Accommodations Tax, bringing jobs back to the Big Island and improving the island's health care system were some of the offers candidates seeking West Hawaii's two seats in the state House of Representatives. West Hawaii Today.

The final Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce political forum Tuesday evening at the War Memorial Convention Hall was far removed from the tense discussions of similar past events — at least at the beginning. Garden Island.

Rep. John Mizuno wants to increase the possible penalty for endangering the welfare of a minor after a Kalihi man allegedly left his eleven month old baby home alone for several hours Tuesday evening. KHON2.

The Pacific Whale Foundation says the first humpback whale of the season has been spotted off the west coast of Maui. Associated Press.

The open wounds are visible several miles from the island -- strips of red earth cut by explosives, grazing animals, wind and rain, bleeding an estimated 2 millions tons of soil a year into the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Volunteers are lining up for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.There's no room service. Or housekeeping. The boat over is no luxury liner. Still, there's a two year waiting list to get on the tiny island of Kahoolawe. Hawaii News Now.

The state has begun charging visitors and commercial tour vehicles to park at Iao Valley State Monument. Maui News.

A Honolulu Liquor Commission investigator is suing the city, saying he suffered discrimination and retaliation when Dewey Kim was the commission administrator. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu City Deputy Prosecutor Kevin Takata, ousted when new Prosecuting Attorney Keith Kaneshiro took office this month, was not out of work for long. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui County Council members voted 6-2 late Tuesday to approve the Kula Ridge project that promises to bring 59 affordable housing units for senior citizens and single families. Maui News.

The wind farm project in Kahuku reached a milestone over the weekend when the final turbine was erected, company officials said. KITV4.

The overarching goal of the North Shore Sustainable Communities Plan is to keep the region’s population—1.7 percent of the Oahu’s total—consistent through the year 2025. Hawaii Independent.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) is considering re-designating Mo`omomi-Anahaki as a “Special District,” which would protect resources, provide stewardship opportunities and preserve the unique sense of place. Molokai Dispatch.

Action on a proposed bill to impose impact fees on new developments to provide for infrastructure was postponed Tuesday by the County Council's Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

It's make or break-even in the Hawaii auto industry. KHON2.

Hawaii County Council members narrowly support borrowing $56 million to build parks, roads and other infrastructure, but don't want the money tied to specific projects. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed ordinance authorizing the county to issue up to $56 million in general obligation bonds for various Big Island public improvement projects is moving on to the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

On Saturday, Oct. 23, 2010, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., the North Kohala community will come together to make a human chain over a mile long to move the collection of 15,000 books and other materials, by hand, from the old Bond Memorial Public Library to the newly constructed North Kohala Public Library, one and a third miles away. Big Island Weekly.

Kilauea vog hurts health, Hawaii Five-0 brings in bucks, Star-Advertiser fights RNC for photo rights, meth plagues Maui, candidates debate, more Hawaii news

The risk of upper respiratory problems increased significantly on the Big Island during high vog events -- and children were the most sensitive to the bad air -- according to a new study that compared clinic visits in communities hardest hit by volcanic emissions before and after a new Kilauea vent opened in March 2008. Star-Advertiser.

A new study shows health complaints spiked in the Big Island community downwind of Kilauea's summit after the volcano began spewing more sulfur dioxide due to a second simultaneous eruption in 2008. Associated Press.

With two weeks to go before Election Day, the candidates for Hawaii's hotly contested 1st Congressional District sharpened their rhetoric on each other last night as they faced off in a live debate for the fourth time in seven days. Star-Advertiser.

Congressional candidates Charles Djou and Colleen Hanabusa squared off in a heated debate televised live on KGMB Tuesday night. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser is accusing U.S. Rep. Charles Djou and the Hawaii Republican Party of violating its copyright of a photo of Democrat Colleen Hanabusa used in a TV attack ad. Associated Press.

For the second night in a row, the candidates for governor squared off in a forum on the neighbor islands. KHON2.

With just two weeks remaining before Election Day, Duke Aiona and Neil Abercrombie sparred in a debate Tuesday night on Kauai. KITV4.

How appropriate Kauai's joint governor-lieutenant governor debate was held at the War Memorial Convention Hall on Harby Street in Lihue. The race for governor, after all, is a fight to the finish, and the polls show it remains close. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said yesterday that he voted for a constitutional amendment calling for a state school board appointed by the governor instead of elected by voters. Star-Advertiser.

The state budget, the Big Island's health care woes, how to support agriculture and what's really wrong with Hawaii's schools -- those topics and more kept the two gubernatorial candidates going back and forth Monday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Democratic lieutenant governor nominee Brian Schatz says he'd like to run for the state's top job in 2018. Associated Press.

After stepping down from his state Senate seat representing Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau for an unsuccessful run for lieutenant governor, Gary Hooser has remained connected with Hawai‘i’s political arena. Garden Island.

Hawaii’s film and television industry is nearing the end of what has been a blockbuster year, but it may set yet another milestone. Hawaii Reporter.

Local farms are up in arms over proposed federal legislation, claiming it would impose strict food safety regulations that could further strain their ability to make ends meet. Molokai Dispatch.

A new 150,000-square-foot FBI building is being built in Kapolei. KITV4.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle made it clear he will crack down on the homeless problem.Hawaii News Now.

The company seeking to reopen the Pepeekeo power plant and area landowners opposing the $70 million development are both trying to convince a hearings officer what's best for the community. Tribune-Herald.

A county subsidy allowing Big Island golfers to pay just $25 greens fees at two West Hawaii golf courses began Friday, but it could be the last year for the popular program. West Hawaii Today.


Nearly 200 students are being tested for tuberculosis. But that's only about one-ninth of the entire enrollment at McKinley High School. KITV4.

Enrollment in Big Island public schools, especially in West Hawaii, has dipped more sharply than in the state as a whole, according to data released Monday by the state Department of Education. West Hawaii Today.

Gary Towner of OfficeMax said studies done by OfficeMax indicate that teachers spend about $1,000 of their own money to do their jobs. Garden Island.

The jet fuel bill soared at Hawaiian Airlines this summer, but business was up so much that it still managed to post a $30 million third quarter profit, same as last year. Hawaii News Now.

Residents at a State housing project in Kalihi say they've been running out of hot water for years. KHON2.

Thanks to the perseverance of a retired state airport firefighter, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will be awarding leases for three Panaewa agricultural lots that have remained fallow for nearly a quarter-century. Tribune-Herald.

A contentious, two-year-old lawsuit between North Shore landowner Joseph Brescia and Native Hawaiian activist Ka‘iulani Edens and others recently ended with a $1 settlement. Garden Island.

Maui police announced another large drug seizure Monday, the second large crystal methamphetamine collar this month. The seizure in Pukalani was made last Tuesday but not revealed until this week. Maui News.

Eroded bike path at Sunset Beach brings a tide of concern as surf season begins. Hawaii Independent.

Growing up, U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye often heard stories about what it meant to live life without a home. West Hawaii Today.

As ordinary community members become planners and leaders, the Molokai Community Plan moves forward. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii Five-0 snarls traffic, climate change could change El Nino, campaigns turn up the heat, Obama steps into gubernatorial race, strikers imperil convention, UH gets medical grant, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Climate change could alter the El Nino cycle in the Pacific, affecting fish stocks and the distribution of nutrients in the ocean, new research suggests. Star-Advertiser.

While it's still hotly debated among scientists whether climate change causes a shift from the traditional form of El Nino to one known as El Nino Modoki, online in the journal Nature Geoscience, scientists now say that El Nino Modoki affects long-term changes in currents in the North Pacific Ocean. Environmental Research Web.

The offense: a "Hawaii Five-0" filming that lasted for seven hours longer than what the state allowed, which caused an unannounced East Honolulu rush-hour traffic jam on Friday. Star-Advertiser.

President Barack Obama is lending support to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie. Associated Press.

Gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie is getting major support from a friend in the White House. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye holds a 13-point lead over Republican challenger Cam Cavasso in his bid for a ninth consecutive term, according to a Rasmussen Reports poll. Star-Advertiser.

The National Republican Congressional Committee said Monday it will spent $210,000 in Hawaii to run ads until the Nov. 2 general election against Colleen Hanabusa. KITV4.

Djou: 'I Am Not a Member of the Tea Party' Civil Beat.


The two major candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District have raised similar amounts of political contributions in September. Associated Press.

Two gay rights groups are supporting several, mostly Democratic candidates for state and congressional offices in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Oahu residents can begin early voting on Tuesday, the Honolulu city clerk said. KITV4.

The fate of Oahu's largest fall convention, which could potentially generate some $40 million in economic activity, hung in the balance yesterday as a five-day union worker strike at the Hilton Hawaiian Village came to a close along with related strikes in Chicago and San Francisco. Star-Advertiser.

On the picket line Monday, some workers said the walkout was worthwhile. KITV4.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle is expressing some optimism over Oahu's proposed $5 billion rail transit. KHON2.

The Obama administration and Sen. Daniel Akaka (D-HI) joined around 600 Native Hawaiian advocates at the largest annual gathering of Native Hawaiian organizations – the Native Hawaiian Convention. Molokai Dispatch.

Legal papers filed recently in state court make new allegations about former Gov. John Waihee’s role in the 2004 financial failure of Hawaii’s largest group of funeral homes and cemeteries. Hawaii Reporter.

An $11 million federal grant will enable the University of Hawaii's Pacific Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases Research to continue work on dengue and other infectious diseases. Associated Press.

As the Diocese of Honolulu wraps up its capital campaign to raise $30 million – which actually received $57 million in pledged funds – parishes around the state will begin to reap the benefits. Molokai Dispatch.

When looking at the City and County of Honolulu’s revamp of the island’s Sustainable Communities Plans and Development Plans—eight regional blueprints that dictate the island’s course of development over the next several years—it’s good to understand the history and background surrounding the City’s planning process. Hawaii Independent.

The first of two meetings by the U.S. Department of the Interior on its draft protocol plan for handling and disposition of burials, sacred sites and other important areas is 6:30 p.m. today at the Kapa‘a Neighborhood Center. Garden Island.

A Kauai luxury hotel and four environmental groups on Monday announced they've settled a lawsuit over the resort's alleged failure to protect endangered and threatened seabirds. Associated Press.

The State Department of Health will be testing about 200 students at McKinley High School Tuesday after a student was diagnosed with tuberculosis. KHON2.

Apollo Kaua‘i, Zero Waste and People for the Preservation of Kaua‘i, along with Pat Gegen as moderator, presented a mayoral and council candidate forum Sunday afternoon at the Kapa‘a Elementary School cafeteria. Garden Island.

The winner of the Guy Enriques-Brittany Smart race will influence the futures of both the 6th District and the entire County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Ten young women this year are vying to be crowned Miss Kona Coffee -- not just for the title, but for the educational and self-improvement opportunities that come along with participating in the pageant. West Hawaii Today.

As two sisters growing up on welfare on Kauai, Bonny Ponting and Toby Neal know how hard it is for families to put food on their tables as well as provide children with all the supplies they need for school and their well-being. Maui News.

Big Island rally draws top Dems, Hawaiian crow making comeback, Filipino WWII vets file lawsuit, union helps symphony in bankruptcy, strike upsetting Hilton guests, tourism agency seeks projects for funding, more top Hawaii news

Hawaii voters will decide in November whether they want to preserve some balance politically or whether they are comfortable with majority Democrats in control. Star-Advertiser.

Increasing the role of agriculture in the Big Island economy was the topic Saturday when the Democratic Party of Hawaii brought federal, state and local candidates together to celebrate "Ag Country Roots." West Hawaii Today.

On Nov. 2, 1959, Neil Abercrombie cast his first vote as a young man. Little did he know that he would be helping to install the nation's now longest-serving senator. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii is the nation's most fossil-fuel dependent state, a fact its candidates for governor intend to change. Associated Press.

In an election year when religion has been thrust onto center stage in a number of races, a Civil Beat poll found that 11 percent of likely voters believe Christianity should play an official role in setting government policy, with an additional 6 percent saying that the best teachings of all the world's religions should do the same. Civil Beat.

The top candidates for U.S. Congress faced off in a debate on KITV 4 News Friday night. KITV4.

The future of the elected state Board of Education is one of two state constitutional amendments Hawaii voters will be asked to decide in this year's election. Star-Advertiser.

Voters will mull important charter amendments on Nov. 2. Tribune-Herald.

A residency challenge against Maui County Council candidate Riki Hokama has been appealed to the state Board of Registration. Maui News.

A lawsuit claims the federal government is discriminating against Filipino World War II veterans by giving them benefits far below what US veterans receive. Filipino Chronicle.

A bomb crater nearly as large as a football field is like an open wound on the southern coast of the former Target Island. Maui News.

On day three of a strike by hotel workers at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort and Spa in Waikiki, guests complained about cleaning hotel rooms themselves, closed restaurants and noise from the strikers. KITV4.

Alabama man arrested after his car hits Hilton picketer. KHON2.

The musicians of the Honolulu Symphony have withdrawn an unfair labor charge that was filed with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in July, so that the Honolulu Symphony’s board and management can submit their reorganization plan with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and meet today’s filing deadline. Hawaii Independent.

A nearly extinct Hawaiian black crow is making a comeback in captivity. Star-Advertiser.

The sign welcoming people to Heeia State Park is old. But the management is new. Hawaii News Now.

Ken DeHoff calls it the Empire State Building of Pearl Harbor. Star-Advertiser.

When the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced in June it had plans to close Kalalau Valley for two months to conduct rockfall mitigation work, some community members questioned if such an ambitious project would be finished by Nov. 7 as promised. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) seeks to fund projects qualifying under its 2011 Natural Resources Program and its Kukulu Ola-Living Hawaiian Culture Program (LHCP). Lahaina News.

Discover for yourself how much the state is paying the 21,929 people who work in the state's public school system. Civil Beat.

On Dec. 3, the Kaua‘i Museum celebrates its 50th anniversary. Garden Island.

Just about any given day around 5 p.m. or so, you can catch Michael Neubauer and Kevin Gavagan working hard to restore an old Hawaiian canoe at Kihei Canoe Club. Molokai Dispatch.

The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative's plan to reduce the number of seabird injuries and deaths is available for public review. Star-Advertiser.

There's a public health scare at McKinley High School. Parents want to know what's being done to stop the spread of tuberculosis. Hawaii News Now.

Gubernatorial, congressional debates in full swing, shark-feeding tours denied, Education Board fattens budget, Maui bag ban implemented, Hilton Hawaiian Village strike continues, more Hawaii news

A debate that has churned in waters off Oahu's North Shore headed to court today. KHON2.

A state judge denied a request to dismiss charges of illegal shark-feeding against a North Shore ocean excursion employee yesterday as protesters rallied at the courthouse. Star-Advertiser.

Mainland money is pouring into the Hawaii governor's race with two new TV ads out this week. KITV4.

The gloves came off in the race for governor Thursday night in a scrappy, live televised forum between Duke Aiona and Neil Abercrombie. KITV4.

The top candidates for governor and the 1st Congressional District got cozy — and heated — with Dan Boylan on PBS. Civil Beat.

The candidates for governor are going after attack ads that are coming from outside of each campaign. KHON2.

On Friday night, KITV4 and KITV.com will feature a political debate between Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou and Democrat Colleen Hanabusa. KITV4.

A candidate for state office is two years behind on property taxes on two West Hawaii properties. West Hawaii Today.

The county Board of Ethics unanimously voted Wednesday to investigate a complaint filed against Puna Councilwoman Emily Naeole-Beason by a former campaign volunteer. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor issues guides for ban on bags. Maui News.

Seeing an economy on the mend, a Board of Education committee approved a $1.4 billion proposed general fund budget yesterday for the upcoming fiscal year that would restore about $129 million in cuts and seek an additional $28 million for student bus transportation, nursing services and athletics. Star-Advertiser.

A national company that tracks foreclosures reports Hawaii had one of the highest foreclosure rates in the third quarter. Associated Press.

Distressed properties account for 24% of all Kaua‘i land sales. Garden Island.

Picket lines went up at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki on Thursday as union workers at the largest resort in Hawaii went on a five-day strike over a contract dispute. Associated Press.

A five-day strike by union workers that began yesterday at the Hilton Hawaiian Village has the potential to cause near-term damage to the state's leading industry. Star-Advertiser.

Workers at Hilton's largest hotel worldwide went on strike Thursday morning, claiming the company isn't using the taxpayer bailout money it received to create jobs and improve working conditions. Hawaii News Now.

Senator Akaka: Akaka Bill is Alive and We Work Everyday to Get it Passed. Hawaii Reporter.

The state appeals court has rejected two of three challenges by Windward farmers and environmentalists who want a state commission to direct more water to flow from the Waiahole Ditch to Windward streams. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands of small nonprofits across America, including hundreds in Hawaii, faced a Friday deadline to fill out an online form for the Internal Revenue Service or lose their tax-exempt status. Hawaii News Now.

For decades the island of Kaho'olawe was used by the military for target practice, using every type of weapon that could be shot, launched or dropped. KHON2.

'Goldilocks planet' questioned. Tribune-Herald.

The state Department of Transportation is working to fill firefighter staffing vacancies at the Maui District airports, a process that a state official said has been going on for several years. Maui News.

No money for trafficked workers, poll shows Abercrombie, Aiona neck and neck, Honolulu ditches nonresident homeowner tax, congressional candidates differ on stimulus funding, Young Bros. threaten rate hikes if competition enters shipping market, more Hawaii news

Drunken driving claimed the lives of at least 171 people on Big Island roads between 2000 and 2009, giving Hawaii Island the highest DUI fatality rate in the state, said North Hawaii Outcomes Project Director Dr. Sharon Vitousek. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii property owners who install solar power panels on their rooftops will get paid for their excess homegrown electricity. Associated Press.

Paid not to fish. Honolulu Weekly.

The Honolulu City Council voted today to repeal the non-resident homeowners class that was signed into law by former mayor Mufi Hannemann.  KHON2.

If the Public Utilities Commission allows a ruling that lets Pasha Hawaii Transport selectively service intraisland cargo routes stand, Hawaii residents will likely see a decrease in service and an increase in cargo costs, Young Brothers officials said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The 44 victims in the Aloun Farms human trafficking case now pending in federal court came within days of receiving $192,000 in restitution but the money is now being returned to the defendants. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii's 1,617 foreclosure filings last month were enough to rank the state as the ninth-highest in the nation, a dubious honor and its worst ranking yet. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is joining the other 49 states in a massive investigation into whether major mortgage lenders committed foreclosure fraud. KITV.

The City Council passed a bill yesterday that bars tents and other makeshift structures on urban sidewalks during daylight hours, but city officials warned such a law will take nearly $250,000 and possibly years to put into effect. Star-Advertiser.

Racing is back on Oahu but not without some controversy. Hawaii News Now.

New rules are being implemented to make our dams and reservoirs safer, but some dam owners testifying at a public hearing on Wednesday said the cost of the regulations are too high. KITV.

Civil Beat Poll: Abercrombie Holds Slight Edge in Hawaii Governor's Race. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's candidates in a tight race for Congress disagreed Wednesday over whether more government or less would help boost the economy. Associated Press.

Before a select crowd, Republican Charles Djou and Democrat Colleen Hanabusa were pressed on how they will best lead Hawaii in Washington, DC.  Starting with growing the state's number one industry - Tourism.KHON2.

Canceling unspent stimulus funds, reducing the size of the government work force through attrition and ending Bush-era tax cuts for wealthier Americans were among the ideas offered for reducing federal spending as the candidates for Hawaii's 1st Congressional District faced off in one of the first public forums since the September primary election. Star-Advertiser.

The leading candidates in the race for Honolulu's first Congressional district faced off in a forum Wednesday night during which Republican Charles Djou said unused stimulus money should be given back to help combat the federal deficit. KITV.

President Barack Obama's voice was heard in 60,000 Oahu residents' homes Wednesday night as they picked up their phones to hear a robo call, a taped message from the president. KITV.

Unionized Hilton Hawaiian Village workers went out on a five-day strike this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has contracted with a videographer and purchased video production equipment, but the mayor said Tuesday a $20,594.73 expenditure isn't just for his new TV show. West Hawaii Today.

Councilwoman files harassment report. Garden Island.

Wireless technology has added to the electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) we are exposed to every day. Big Island Weekly.

The state Campaign Spending Commission will soon have a new executive director. Hawaii News Now.

Several Hawaii County Council candidates participating in a public financing pilot program are calling the program a success even though it's forced them to curtail spending and engage in more long-term planning. West Hawaii Today.

A federal grant will fund the construction of a new health center building in Naalehu, possibly doubling the amount of patients being served in the area. Tribune-Herald.

Retired electrical contractor Randy Piltz outspent former Mayor Alan Arakawa in the Maui mayor's primary election race, shelling out $219,060 on his campaign, to Arakawa's $189,166. Maui News.

It was supposed to be the 10th and one of the most memorable editions of the Homegrown Music Festival. Garden Island.

Aloha indeed – as adults relaxed, chowed down and talked story, keiki ran off the sugar from shave ice and braddah pops in the popular annual event, Festivals of Aloha. Molokai Dispatch.

UH to pay $2.5M for alleged cronyism, landowners say dam safety too costly, woman says $5.7M award won't end suffering, Native Hawaiian issues at forefront, Maui landfill hearing draws crowd, Honolulu more wealthy, more Hawaii news

Giving native Hawaiians and Pacific islanders broader access to federal agencies will be the focus of the next meeting in Washington, D.C., of the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, an official said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Native Hawaiian leaders are getting one-on-one face time with officials from the Obama administration. Hawaii News Now.

Abercrombie and Aiona agree on the need to pass the Akaka bill, but differ on whether to do it this year or next. Civil Beat.

As expected the Office of Hawaiian Affairs debate started with questions about the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act, more commonly known as the Akaka Bill. Hawaii News Now.


Gubernatorial candidates Neil Abercrombie and Duke Aiona went head-to-head in a televised debate tonight that focused on Native Hawaiian issues, as well as other broader issues. KHON2.

U.S. Rep. Charles Djou appears to have a slight edge over Democratic challenger state Sen. Colleen Hanabusa for his congressional seat, according to a public poll being released today in Washington, D.C. Star-Advertiser.

House Minority Leader John Boehner on Tuesday announced that Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou will win a spot on the House panel that doles out federal dollars if Djou wins re-election. Associated Press.


Hawaii Democrat Colleen Hanabusa on Tuesday criticized a new TV ad by her opponent for Congress, Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou, that warns voters about a storm of lies and special interests. Associated Press.

Hawaii Democrat Colleen Hanabusa is criticizing a new TV ad by her opponent for Congress, Republican U.S. Rep. Charles Djou, that warns voters about a storm of lies and special interests. KITV.

The Hawaii Superferry's vessels were recently auctioned off. But talk of an interisland ferry has re-surfaced in the race for governor.Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii has tentatively agreed to pay $2.5 million to settle a lawsuit that alleges cronyism played a role in the award of a key development contract at the $120 million Cancer Research Center of Hawaii, Hawaii Reporter has learned. Hawaii Reporter.

When it comes to income, Honolulu is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. KHON2.

The Hawaii Alliance of Nonprofit Organizations is scrambling to notify hundreds of small Hawaii nonprofit groups that they have just two more days to preserve their tax-exempt status by filing with the IRS. Star-Advertiser.

New state rules on dam safety could be too costly for landowners, several people testified yesterday at the first of four public hearings this week on proposed changes. Star-Advertiser.

Credit card debt carried by the average Hawaii consumer, over $9,000 for most of the year, has fallen to $8,469, a mainland study finds. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii homeowners with good credit and plenty of equity in their homes are waiting months to get refinancing loans approved -- if they're approved at all -- and the delays are chasing hundreds of mortgage brokers out of the island market. Star-Advertiser.

The hot potato that is ethics reform has landed back at its starting place with the county Board of Ethics. West Hawaii Today.

The first public meeting about the proposed site for the island’s next landfill in Ma‘alo drew a large crowd from the Hanama‘ulu community. Garden Island.

Homeless campers said they aren’t too concerned about Wednesday’s Honolulu City Council vote on a bill that aims to ban tents and property from public sidewalks. KITV.

A woman who won a $5.6 million jury award after slipping in a McDonalds restaurant said the money will not end her suffering. KITV.

A Texas woman who slipped and fell at the Dairy Road McDonald's nearly three years ago was awarded $5.67 million last week for the injuries she suffered at the Kahului restaurant while visiting relatives on Maui. Maui News.

Rental rates for Hawaii County's only horse stable are going up incrementally, delaying the full increase until October 2012, Parks Director Bob Fitzgerald announced Monday. Tribune-Herald.

The Maui County Council Public Services Committee voted 4-1 late Monday to recommend approval of the Kula Ridge fast-track housing application with conditions. Maui News.

The need to maintain the island’s unique cultural identity is as strong as the need for more jobs and a more diverse, stable economy in the eyes of Molokai residents. Molokai Dispatch.


A lucky-me contributor, I recently received my premier, four-color, first copy autographed edition of “Practice Aloha, Secrets to Living Life Hawaiian Style,” a collection of stories, recipes and lyrics compiled by editors Mark Ellman and Barbara Santos. Lahaina News.

Kauai revisits plastic bag ban, Maui plans bird-proof football, new Honolulu mayor has big to-do list, tourism continues rebound, feds buy superferries, poll shows Hanabusa with slight lead, lawmakers probe securities purchase, airport chief says dysfunctional office jeopardizes safety, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu has a new Mayor. KHON2.

New Honolulu Mayor has long list of problems to fix. Hawaii News Now.

The final campaign spending reports for the Honolulu Mayor's race due Monday showed that former acting Mayor Caldwell raised $1,201,595 total for the race while former Honolulu prosecutor Carlisle raised a total $580,557. KITV.

In his first minutes in office, new Mayor Peter Carlisle pledged to follow up on his campaign promise to cut waste in city spending and committed to push full speed ahead on the $5.5 billion rail transit system. Star-Advertiser.

Peter Carlisle once told one of his deputy prosecutors that he would become mayor when pigs learn to fly. At his swearing-in ceremony at Honolulu Hale Monday, the winner of the September 18 special election for mayor unveiled a statue of a pig with wings and wasted no time outlining his priorities. Hawaii News Now.

The latest poll in the First Congressional District race shows Colleen Hanabusa leading Congressman Charles Djou. KHON2.


Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie spent more than $2.8 million to win the Democratic primary for governor in September, or about $20 a vote in his victory over former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann. Star-Advertiser.

Democrat Neil Abercrombie has more campaign fundraising momentum than his Republican opponent, Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, reports show. Civil Beat.

This afternoon, Keith Kaneshiro was sworn into office as Honolulu's new prosecutor. KHON2.

An investigative committee made-up of state lawmakers is probing whether any laws were broken when the Department of Budget and Finance purchased more than $1 billion worth of student loan auction rate securities. KHON2.

Some 93,000 public school students in Hawaii begin taking the Hawaii State Assessment tests next week. Associated Press.

The foreclosure scandal has touched a nerve with the state’s consumer protector. KITV.

The chief for airport fire stations on three islands said today he is dangerously short of firefighters -- because of what he called an “inept” airports personnel office. KITV.

Council to revisit plastic-bag ban. Garden Island.

A hotel, tourism and real estate consulting services firm says a new survey shows Hawaii's tourism industry continues to recover from the economic recession. Associated Press.

Maui hotel occupancy bounded up by nearly 10 percentage points as the entire state enjoyed a "relatively strong summer," according to the consulting firm Hospitality Advisors. Maui News.

Molokai is again without a staff planner with the county’s Planning Department. Molokai Dispatch.

The dream of Friday night lights and football at Lahainaluna High School continues to take shape on the historic campus, as a state-of-the-art system from MUSCO Sports Lighting has been installed at the Luna Athletic Field. Lahaina News.

There were lots of extras to interest buyers -- furniture, apparel, tools, machinery and spare parts. But no one was willing to outbid the federal government for the two former Hawaii Superferry high-speed catamarans at a recent foreclosure auction. Star-Advertiser.

A federal jury has awarded a Texas woman $5.67 million for injuries she suffered when she slipped and fell in a McDonald's restaurant in Kahului. Star-Advertiser.

The owners of Hawaii's second-largest farm are looking to get back $192,000 from the federal court clerk in Honolulu. Associated Press.

Of the six contested County Council races this year, only the South Maui rematch could be called a negative campaign. Maui News.

Mayoral, council candidates to discuss issues at Sunday forum. Garden Island.

Councilman Guy Enriques, responding to voters' concerns that he hasn't shared enough information about himself, is touting his accomplishments as a freshman district representative. West Hawaii Today.

Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono (D- Hawaii) recently announced $10,302,629 in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services grants to address pressing construction and renovation needs and expand access to quality health care at community health centers in Hilo and Waianae. Hawaii Reporter.

More good news for "Hawaii Five-0." It is the most played back show in DVR history. That's what Nielsen ratings showed when the information was released by CBS Monday. Hawaii News Now.