Honolulu police release video of drunk councilman, ag board in turmoil, homeless sidewalk ban passes, Big Island bond reallocation killed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A police sergeant's helmet-cam caught the following video of drunken Honolulu City Councilman Tom Berg arguing with the Secret Service at an APEC event. Civil Beat.

Police have released a video of City Councilman Tom Berg arguing loudly and belligerently with Secret Service personnel outside a Waikiki hotel on Nov. 12 after being denied re-entry into an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation reception. Star-Advertiser.


In wheelchairs and on walkers, the old veterans came Wednesday to remember the day 70 years ago when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. Associated Press.

An association of Pearl Harbor survivors founded in 1958 has announced they will be disbanding at the end of the month. Associated Press.

State Leaders Search for Ways to Increase Energy Efficiency. Hawaii Public Radio.

A limit on the number of charter schools in Hawaii would be lifted if the recommendations of a task force are adopted. Civil Beat.

The Waialae Iki census tract in Honolulu had the highest median household in Hawaii in 2010, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey five-year estimates released Thursday. Pacific Business News.


Hawaii residents are getting better at paying their mortgages and credit cards on time, and the trend is forecast to continue next year. Star-Advertiser.

The Agribusiness Development Corporation has ousted its longtime executive director and hired a new one in a surprise move that some called a power play staged by newer board members. Civil Beat.

There's controversy at the State Department of Agriculture over what's called a forced resignation and an inside job on picking the replacement. Hawaii News Now.

State tourism leaders gathered in Waikiki Wednesday for a discussion on marketing strategies for 2012. KHON2.

Oahu

A proposal to ban the practice of storing personal items, including furniture and clothing, in public areas such as sidewalks and parks now goes to Mayor Peter Carlisle, who is expected to sign the bill into law. Star-Advertiser.


Lost, Injured Hawaiian Seabirds Find Sanctuary at Sea Life Park. Hawaii Reporter.

Pearl Harbor wasn’t always a place of war. Hawaii Independent.

Hundreds lined up early to add their name to the list of runners participating in Sunday's 39th annual Honolulu Marathon. KHON2.

Hawaii

A $23,000 contract to remove a partially collapsed loading dock at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor appears to have been completed by a contractor not licensed for the scope of work, West Hawaii Today has learned. West Hawaii Today.

Puna Councilman Fred Blas cast the swing vote Wednesday by joining minority members in defeating a $10 million parks-maintenance plan, which left stunned supporters fuming. Tribune-Herald.

A plan to divert $10 million from two Hilo projects on a recent county bond issue to try to quickly put construction workers back on the job failed by one vote Wednesday, when four council members voted to leave the current $56 million bond issue alone. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A retreat that brought together members of the Board of Education, public school superintendents, legislators and other state education leaders was a step in the right direction, Baldwin-Kekaulike-Maui Complex Area Superintendent Bruce Anderson said this week. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday approved a $40,000 request to retain special counsel to defend the county in a lawsuit against a mixed martial arts fighter Tased by a Kaua‘i Police Department officer two years ago. Garden Island.

Molokai
Richard Schuman, owner of air service provider Makani Kai, confirmed last week his company will begin providing lower-cost flights in and out of Kalaupapa later this month. Molokai Dispatch.

The Safari Explorer passenger yacht did not dock last weekend as scheduled after more than 300 community members attended a public meeting last Wednesday night. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii technology lacking, school system faces audit, Hawaiian Airlines considers kama'aina program, state may get second saint, migrant workers decry conditions, Pearl Harbor remembered and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

undersea cable connects Hawaii broadband courtesy photo

One trillion computing devices will be connected to the internet by 2013 … and 3 out of 4 citizens will be dealing electronically with government agencies. But Hawai’i’s information technology is lagging far behind … according to one study…it’s among the bottom third in the nation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and his Department of Education say they want even more money to run school buses next year — even though the Legislature told them to cut costs. Civil Beat.

The Department of Education is facing a series of tough budget decisions in the coming school year that -- in worst-case scenarios -- could result in the elimination of school bus service on Oahu and an 85-cent increase to school lunch prices, officials warned Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The governor's appointed Board of Education approved on Tuesday plans for a two-year, internal audit of the state's school system. Tribune-Herald.

Special Investigation: Laotian Workers Suffer Health and Financial Problems on Oahu Farms. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Airlines working on possible pricing options for locals. Hawaii News Now.
http://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/story/16205051/hawaiian-airlines-working-on-possible-pricing-options-for-locals

The Dec. 7, 1941, bombing of Pearl Harbor and those who lost their lives that day are being remembered Wednesday on the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack that brought the U.S. into World War II. Associated Press.

On the eve of the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, I helped lead a field trip to Ke Awalau o Puʻuloa (Pearl Harbor) for 57 inner-city Honolulu high school students. Hawaii Independent.

Helicopters from the 25th Infantry Combat Aviation Brigade at Wheeler Army Airfield are set to lift off for a mission in Afghanistan. KITV4.

Oahu

Oahu's jobless rate improved to 5.6 percent in October from 5.7 percent in September but slipped in a ranking of 372 metropolitan areas to the 39th lowest, according to a report Tuesday from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Star-Advertiser.

Dozens of exemptions to the city's property tax system have rendered it unfair and inefficient. Civil Beat.

A former chief of staff fired by Honolulu City Council member Tom Berg is now calling for his impeachment. Civil Beat.

After decades of neglect eight roads in east Oahu will be getting a much needed facelift in the form of new asphalt by March. KHON2.

Safeway plans to open its new Honolulu store on South Beretania Street next week. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii County's $7.5 million road maintenance "windfall" should be spent on specific projects with individual price tags, County Council members told Mayor Billy Kenoi's administration Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Some members of the Hawaii County Council have apparently taken to heart Henry David Thoreau's adage, "That government is best which governs least." West Hawaii Today.

It's only five words, but it makes a world of difference to South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford, chairwoman of the Finance Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Ground was broken for the long-awaited Kihei police station Monday morning, with politicians, police officers and community members saying they are excited to see the area's growing population finally getting a station to fit its needs. Maui News.

Kauai

A temporary septic system is coming with price tag for residents of a housing complex in one of the island’s sunniest and hottest places. Garden Island.

The Salvation Army recently accepted a $7,800 donation to continue its Soup Kitchen program for 2012, Garden Island.

Molokai

Known affectionately as the "beloved mother of the outcasts," Blessed Marianne Cope, who ministered to Hansen's disease patients in Kalaupapa for the last 39 years of her life, is one step away from being canonized as a saint, Hawaii's second after St. Damien. Star-Advertiser.

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

University of Hawaii Greg McMackin AP photo via Yahoo News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

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

Attack on Pearl Harbor historical photo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

Molokai

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

Abercrombie touts record bond sale, big changes for Alexander & Baldwin, PUC eases power sales, young state lawmaker recovering from stroke, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii projected debt service

The Abercrombie administration has completed a record bond sale of nearly $1.3 billion and restructured the state's debt as part of a long-term strategy to repair the financial damage left by the recession. Star-Advertiser.

It's being hailed as a monumental milestone for the state's economy -- Hawaii's largest-ever bond sale at historically low rates. KHON2.

Hawaii's announcement of $1.3 billion in new bond money will mean state projects can move forward and that will create jobs, Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday. Civil Beat.

A year ago this month, just days after his swearing in, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's ambitious plans to have a "New Day" for Hawaii fell into a budget sinkhole. Civil Beat.

Abercromie Claims Lingle Left 'Financial Wreckage'; Former Governor Fights Back. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Budget and Finance Director Kalbert Young announced Thursday, December 1 that the State sold $1.28 billion of General Obligation Bonds. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii will receive more than $14 million in federal grants to help it carry out President Barack Obama's health care overhaul. Associated Press.

The Public Utilities Commission has directed a further easing of the conditions by which alternative energy providers connect to the public utility electric grid throughout the state. Maui News.

Occupancy at Hawaii hotels rose by six percentage points last week, while average nightly room rates increased 4 percent from the same week last year, according to a report by Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research. Pacific Business News.

Shedding a business structure rooted in Hawaii's territorial past, Alexander & Baldwin Inc. announced Thursday it will become separate companies, one focused on real estate and agriculture and the other on transportation. Star-Advertiser.

State representative Chris Lee is back on the job and feeling like himself again after a stroke landed him in a hospital bed for four days in early November. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday that it is investigating allegations that screeners at Honolulu International Airport have targeted Mexican travelers for extra screening. Associated Press.

One of the Transportation Security Administration officers accused of targeting Mexican travelers for extra screening at Honolulu International Airport has been promoted. KITV4.

After traveling thousands of miles across the West Pacific, the U.S.S. Chung Hoon came home to Pearl Harbor Thursday, bringing nearly 300 sailors back to loved ones. KITV4.

APEC – the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting on O’ahu ended more than 2 weeks ago … and some people are now asking, “Was APEC worth it?” The Hawai’i Society of Business Professionals hosted a panel discussion on that very topic. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

North Kona Councilman Angel Pilago said Thursday he won't seek another term, a move that ensures a new council majority when the governing body is sworn in next December. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County's multimillion-dollar Hilo recycling center should be privatized and expanded to allow mining of the adjacent landfill, says County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong. Tribune-Herald.

A provision allowing the state Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation to work on small boat harbors without permits couldn't find the votes Thursday at the Windward Planning Commission, forcing the deferral of a package of amendments to the Special Management Area. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

An audit of the state-owned Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui found residents living in “substandard conditions” and “an atmosphere of intimidation and fear," according to state records released today. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

A Hanalei man with a little more than four years left to go on his five-year probation sentence was in court Tuesday to request that the terms of his probation be modified for medical marijuana use. Garden Island.


Molokai

American Safari Cruises has postponed its scheduled trips to Molokai today and Saturday after facing opposition from some residents who fear the tours could diminish fish stocks and wild game. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii mourns death of noted law professor, author, Jon Van Dyke, Congressman seeks probe of Honolulu TSA, drunk Honolulu councilman causes a stir at APEC, Hawaii County completes redistricting, Molokai Dispatch cutting back, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

UH law professor Jon Van Dyke courtesy photo

University of Hawaii law professor Jon Van Dyke was a leading authority on Native Hawaiian, U.S. constitutional, environmental and international issues. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii Professor of Law Jon Van Dyke passed away in his sleep last night while at a conference in Australia. Hawaii Reporter.

Jon M. Van Dyke, a prominent University of Hawaii law professor, author and advocate for Native Hawaiian rights, has died. He was 68. Associated Press.

There are few people in Hawaii more influential than Professor Jon Van Dyke. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii has lost one of its greatest legal minds. KHON2.

The following is a message by Aviam Soifer, a dean at the University of Hawaii’s William S. Richardson School of Law, notifying UH law students of the recent passing of professor Jon Van Dyke. Hawaii Independent.

Sen. Daniel Inouye issued a statement in remembrance of Jon Van Dyke, the well-known Hawaii constitutional law professor who died on Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Jon Van Dyke, a constitutional law professor at the University of Hawaii’s Richardson School of Law, has died. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Honolulu City Councilman Tom Berg denies being drunk but doesn't dispute a police report that says he became argumentative and combative with Secret Service agents at a Nov. 12 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation reception. Star-Advertiser.

The chair of the Honolulu City Council says he will not strip Councilmember Tom Berg of his committee voting rights after recent reports of "unruly" behavior. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilman Breene Harimoto says colleague Tom Berg’s “argumentative and aggressive behavior” is disruptive and warrants his removal from all committee assignments. KHON2.

The ranking Democrat on the U.S. House of Representatives Homeland Security Committee has sent a letter to the Transportation Security Administration, demanding information and a halt to a controversial TSA program, in reaction to an investigation by KITV 4 News earlier this month. KITV4.

Rail opponents say they're ready to ask a federal judge for an immediate stop to Honolulu's rail project if construction gets underway before an environmental suit is resolved. KHON2.

Federal environmental protection officials have set new monitoring rules and deadlines for the city to complete improvements at Waimanalo Gulch Landfill, nearly a year after the uncontrolled release of stormwater swept refuse strewn with medical waste into the ocean along the Waianae Coast. Star-Advertiser.

The lawsuit against the Honolulu rail project is on track for a February showdown that will determine if the city can proceed with construction. Civil Beat.

A contract for a new wind farm on Oahu's north shore is raising questions about why a project developer doesn't have to reveal seemingly critical financial information to state regulators who are charged with protecting consumer interests. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

After tweaking the boundary between North and South Kona, smoothing the line between North Kona and Kohala and ensuring most of Keaau stayed in Hilo's District 3, the county Redistricting Commission put its stamp of approval Wednesday on new County Council districts for the next 10 years. West Hawaii Today.

Starting with next year's elections, Hilo will have two County Council members rather than the current three, while Puna will gain a second seat.Tribune-Herald.

The administrator of Hawaii County's Civil Defense Agency is retiring effective today. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui island saw a dip in visitor arrivals and spending in October compared with the same month last year, according to statistics released Tuesday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Maui News.

County Council members will continue their review of the Maui Island Plan at a meeting Thursday. Maui News.

The County Council Water Resources Committee heard public testimony Tuesday on proposed changes to the "Show Me the Water" ordinance, but the panel deferred action. Maui News.

Council members in Maui County are in the middle of difficult decisions about how to bring more fairness to the way property is taxed. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kauai

The state Department of Health has cited a Honolulu company for violating asbestos removal requirements last April at Kekaha Sugar Mill. Garden Island.

Merriman’s Fish House in Po‘ipu is the locale of the next episode of “Chef Hunters” on the Food Network airing at 5 p.m. today. Garden Island.

Molokai

Kalaupapa airfares should drop significantly in the coming month. Molokai Dispatch.

Changes Coming to The Molokai Dispatch. Molokai Dispatch.

Census shows Hawaii, Kauai counties falling behind, teachers may yet strike, Maui drops district voting idea, tourist spending up, Honolulu rapid transit could get millions, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Child at play (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Almost one-quarter of Hawaii County's children lived in poverty last year, by far the highest rate in the state, and a 6 percentage point increase over five years ago. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's tourism industry is heading into December with a fighting chance to break the record for annual visitor spending despite anemic growth in the number of arrivals so far this year. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Hawaii last month spent $20 more per person daily compared to last year, the Hawaii Tourism Authority said Tuesday. Associated Press.

A legal battle between the Hawaii State Teachers Association and the state has dragged on for five months, and yet the end is nowhere on even the most distant horizon. Civil Beat.

State taxpayers may have to foot cost of returning 350 new guns. Hawaii News Now.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle said Tuesday a federal proposal to designate areas on and around the main Hawaiian islands as critical habitat for the endangered Hawaiian monk seal is insensitive and an example of "government over-reach." Associated Press.

15,000 - that is the number of non resident members of the United States military who are not represented in any state anywhere in the country in state elections. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaiian Telcom announced it has updated its collective bargaining agreement offer to IBEW Local Union 1357. KHON2.

Comment: OHA needs to hear its beneficiaries before making deals. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Hawaii residents could be paying tens of millions of dollars in higher electric rates over the next 25 years if state regulators don't approve a contract for a wind farm on Oahu’s north shore in time for developers to take advantage of a lucrative federal grant. Civil Beat.

At a time when other union members are facing pay cuts, furloughs and losing benefits, registered nurses at Queen’s Medical Center, Hawaii's largest hospital, approved a contract Monday night with three years’ worth of raises. KITV4.

A temporary restraining order preventing construction of a multipurpose building at Kawaiaha'o Church will remain in effect at least through Friday as a state judge considers arguments made Tuesday in a lawsuit seeking to stop the controversial project. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu has the highest quality of living nationwide, according to a new survey from investment consulting group Mercer. Associated Press.

Honolulu's planned rail transit project is one of a handful of top candidates across the nation with a chance to share in $510 million in federal transit funds under spending measures signed by President Barack Obama earlier this month. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation is eligible for $510 million in federal funds next year, Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka announced Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The second-annual conference of nonprofit communities convened in Waikiki today. Hawaii Public Radio.

A dust problem in Nanakuli is not a health concern, but steps can be taken to mitigate the nuisance. KHON2.

Hawaii

A 3rd Circuit District Court judge on Tuesday ejected Abel Simeona Lui, a Native Hawaiian activist, from his courtroom and upheld an eviction order previously handed down against Lui and his group claiming native ownership of a Ka'u parcel recently purchased by Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

In a classic case of home rule, Hawaii County lawmakers want the state to delay releasing a foreign insect intended to control the spread of invasive strawberry guava. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County's high number of retirees and people with disabilities are factors behind the county seeing 7.3 percent of personal income coming from Social Security payments, economists and a sociologist say. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

District voting for Maui County Council races is off the table for the foreseeable future. Maui News.

Maui County Council Planning Committee Chairman Don Couch wanted to begin discussion Monday of a proposed limit on the number of vacation rentals on Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kamalani Pavilion will be blessed and dedicated to the public benefit soon. Garden Island.

Molokai

State transportation officials are hoping the conflict over cruise ships docking on Molokai will be resolved during a scheduled meeting of the parties today, department spokesman Dan Meisenzahl said. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie to announce 'sensational' news, plastic bag ban nearing for Hawaii Island, Honolulu faces 70% water rate hike, $1.4B rail contract inked, Molokai fights tourist yacht, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kahuku guided hike (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park officials are debating how to develop its Kahuku Unit, more than seven years after it opened to the public. Tribune-Herald.

Later this week, Gov. Abercrombie is scheduled to announce "sensational" news about the sale of a state bond issue and tell the public what it says about the state's financial condition and what work it might make possible. Civil Beat.

After initially saying it couldn’t be done, the Hawaii State Judiciary has upgraded electronic access to state Circuit Court records. Hawaii Reporter.

The list of candidates Gov. Neil Abercrombie released for the associate justice vacancy he filled with Sabrina McKenna's appointment includes three finalists for chief justice last year, who could be nominated again for an upcoming opening on the Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

The state Reapportionment Commission should be ordered to redraw new political boundaries to more accurately reflect the total permanent resident population of the islands, Gov. Neil Abercrombie's office contends, a move that would shift a state Senate seat to Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

More than 3,000 volunteers are expected to help make 60,000 pages of Hawaiian language newspapers available to the world via the Internet on this Lā Kū‘oko‘a, Hawaiian Independence Day. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii's progress on Race to the Top education reforms and a timeline for implementing common core standards are on the state Board of Education's agenda this weekend. Associated Press.

Officials with Schofield Barracks identified the soldier who died in an early morning roll-over crash Saturday as Spc. Phillip S. Bullins, 23, of Carthage, North Carolina. KITV4.

Oahu

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply on Monday unanimously approved a 70 percent increase in water rates through the next five fiscal years. Star-Advertiser.

On Monday, Abercrombie riffed on a new idea, his boldest yet: a third city for Oahu, after Honolulu and Kapolei. Civil Beat.

Ansaldo Honolulu JV signed a $1.4 billion contract with the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation for 80 rail cars on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Rail Transit contract for rail cars was signed late this afternoon … one day before the Project is challenged in Federal Court. Hawaii Public Radio.

The City of Honolulu is shifting its towing contract. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s largest metropolitan area had 300 fewer businesses after the onset of the recession, according to a new analysis of data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Pacific Business News.

The Traffic Violations Bureau in the Honolulu District Court at 1111 Alakea Street will no longer be open until 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday evenings. KHON2.

Hawaii

Having heard from communities around the island, the County Council is moving closer to deciding whether to prohibit businesses from giving plastic shopping bags to their customers. Tribune-Herald.

State and county officials are OK with letting a Puako home owner keep a seawall that protects about 30 feet of personal property above the shoreline. West Hawaii Today.

Maui
Fortunately for Maui and the Hana community, there weren't many teaching jobs in Michigan for Mitzi Hasegawa. Maui News.

Kauai

Members of the Kapa‘a Middle School Choir and ‘Ukulele Band offered shoppers some holiday cheer on Sunday during its “Singing for Tips” fundraiser at the Walmart and Safeway stores. Garden Island.

Molokai

An American Safari Cruises vessel was able to dock at a Molokai harbor a day after protesters on small boats and surfboards blocked its previous attempt. Associated Press.

A Molokai protester said a cruise ship that he and others stopped from entering into Kaunakakai Harbor on Saturday "snuck back in" on Sunday. Maui News.

A group of protestors on small boats and surfboards physically blocked an American Safari Cruises’ (ASC) yacht, the Safari Explorer, from docking at Kaunakakai Wharf last Saturday morning. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu rapid transit headed back to court, Abercrombie reluctantly releases public records, Hawaii businesses get record SBA loans, Kauai police start accreditation, Hawaiians celebrate makahiki and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii makahiki (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

This is a season of thanksgiving in many cultures, including in Hawaii where the Makahiki season is just beginning. Hawaii Public Radio.

Attorneys for the city and Federal Transit Authority will be in U.S. District Court on Wednesday at 10 a.m. seeking to have several high profile plaintiffs challenging the legality of the city’s rail system thrown out. Hawaii Reporter.

Before Christmas trees are put on display, each are inspected by the state to ensure no invasive species are brought to Hawaii. KHON2.

Average room rates at Hawaii hotels rose by more than 4 percent last week, while occupancy on the Neighbor Islands got a boost from pre-Thanksgiving week travelers, according to a weekly report by Hospitality Advisors LLC and Smith Travel Research  Pacific Business News.

When a new nonprofit group, Parents for Public Schools Hawai‘i, asked middle schools in town to offer tours for parents weighing where to send their children, some observers wondered whether anyone would come. Star-Advertiser.

Starting next year, eight schools with model special-education programs will be used as hands-on training sites for teachers and staff statewide as part of efforts to improve services for disabled students. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii school bus companies say rising health-care and fuel costs are only two of many reasons they are now charging so much more to drive kids to and from school. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Small Business Administration's Hawaii office lent $73.6 million to 343 small businesses in the fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, setting a record. Star-Advertiser.

People often ask why the general excise tax applies to necessities such as food and drugs or, for that matter, health care? In the latter, people argue it is inhumane to tax people because they are sick. West Hawaii Today.

Attorney General David M. Louie, acting on behalf of Gov. Neil Abercrombie, on Saturday released three lists of judicial nominees provided to the governor by the Judicial Selection Commission. KITV4.

Oahu

Since coming into office this year, City Councilman Tom Berg has never been afraid to voice his opinion — often as the lone vote in opposition — on any issue that comes before the Council. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The jolly man in the red suit visited the tropics on Saturday, appearing in Hilo's Christmas parade to walk off what appeared to be a massive turkey dinner. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui County Council members said last week that they expect once again to push back their deadline to pass the Maui Island Plan, this time until August 2012. Maui News.

United Continental has decided to halt its Continental service from Orange County to Maui on Jan. 2. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

For the past two years the Kaua‘i Police Department has prepared itself to undergo an arduous process of national accreditation that would essentially streamline standards and policies utilized by law enforcement agencies around the country. Garden Island.

Molokai

While the permitting process to build or improve housing and businesses on Molokai can be stressful, members of the Molokai Planning Commission say it’s a crucial process that allows for community feedback and ensuring the protection of Molokai’s land and resources. Molokai Dispatch.

Big backlog of state warrants, Honolulu Santa goes solar, Molokai fights feral cats, curbside recycling coming to Maui, Kawaiaha'o Church burial battle continues, homeless housed in buses and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kawaiaha'o Church (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Kawaiaha'o Church has stopped construction again on a controversial multipurpose building -- this time because of a complaint that the church is disregarding a state requirement to remove human burials found on the construction site. Star-Advertiser.

Special report: law enforcement faces backlog of 87,942 state warrants. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Judicial Selection Commission, as promised, is becoming more transparent. Hawaii Reporter.

The nation's second-largest school bus company may soon be rolling into Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Maritime Administration is expected to decide in the near future on a winning bidder for the two former Hawaii Superferry vessels, which had a short-lived operation in Hawaii waters. Star-Advertiser.

The State of Hawaii’s administration announced today that costs for hosting the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Honolulu was lower than expectations. Hawaii Independent.

The Hawaii Supreme Court has postponed its 30-day suspension of attorney Earle Partington from the practice of law until Dec. 3. Star-Advertiser.

Close to 300 deployed marines and sailors returned home to Hawaii Thanksgiving morning. KHON2.

Oahu

The city will delay signing what would be the largest contract in Honolulu history to allow time to gather more information about the financial stability of rail company Ansaldo Honolulu JV and determine whether problems at Ansaldo's troubled parent company could affect the Honolulu rail project. Star-Advertiser.

City to Sweep Homeless from Stadium Park. Civil Beat.

Homeless find shelter on buses. KHON2.

A Honolulu light display of Santa's workshop and village will be powered by the sun this year. Associated Press.

Honolulu Police released tapes of calls made to 911 on the night of a fatal shooting in Waikiki. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

As governments around the world look for ways to slash spending and cut deficits, one appealing target has emerged -- the telescopes on Mauna Kea. Tribune-Herald.

The Mauna Kea Science Reserve sprawls over more than 11-thousand acres atop Hawai`i’s tallest mountain. Hawaii Public Radio.

Jackie Rey's Ohana Grill was bustling Thursday morning, but the restaurant wasn't serving its usual fare. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Hawaii Chief Justice Mark E. Recktenwald is seeking public comment on six judicial nominees for a vacancy in district court in 2nd Circuit Court, which covers Maui County. Pacific Business News.

Maui County would test curbside recycling in a pilot program officials hope to run in Maui Meadows for one year. Maui News.

Kauai

A Kaua‘i County fourth-quarter report released Tuesday reveals a flat economic “recovery,” with the exception of the tourism and construction sectors. Garden Island.

Several community meetings have been scheduled by the Kauai Department of Water to discuss a proposed rate increase. KITV4.

Hundreds of Kaua‘i residents on Wednesday took advantage of the annual Salvation Army Community Thanksgiving Lunch to enjoy a turkey meal complete with all the fixings. Garden Island.

Molokai

The island of Molokai is renowned for fighting off-island invaders in ancient times and now big businesses. Now, a group of owners on the west end are also fighting their homeowner association to keep a managed feral cat colony on the 14-acre property. Molokai Dispatch.

Health benefits face cuts, Hawaiian newspapers coming to the Internet, PUC approves HELCO power sharing, smart grid for Maui, swag for elected officials, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo homelessness (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Homeless service providers say they haven't seen much of a drop, if any, in the number of people coming to them. Civil Beat.

The Abercrombie administration intends to tighten eligibility and reduce benefits for adults in QUEST, eliminating an estimated 3,000 people from the state's health plan for the poor, but has walked back limits on hospital stays that would have been the most restrictive in the nation. Star-Advertiser.

Swag of Our Governors. Civil Beat.

Awaiaulu, Inc., a local non-profit organization, is seeking 3,000 volunteers from around the world to participate in a unique nation-building initiative that aims to make 60,000 pages of Hawaiian-language newspapers accessible via the Internet. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaii Supreme Court Tuesday denied a request by retired car dealer James Pflueger to review a state appeals court ruling that upheld manslaughter charges against him in the deaths of seven people killed after the 2006 Ka Loko Dam breach. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Utilities Commission has approved Hawaiian Electric Co.'s Feed in Tariff Tier 3. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

The Pacific Beach Hotel, its owners, and its management, face penalties after a federal contempt of court citation for failure to rehire fired union organizers with back pay. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) wants to inform drivers that archaeological survey work continues in the urban Honolulu area for the rail transit project. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Kai residents will see their sewer bills go up 14 percent under a rate increase approved Monday by the Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser.

The Outdoor Circle is taking a new, hard-line stance against the city's planned elevated rail transit system, calling the rail project the biggest threat to Oahu's landscape in the group's 100-year history. Star-Advertiser.

For the past two years, the city has been trying to get an exploding feral pig problem under control at Hoomaluhia Botanical Park in Kaneohe. KITV4.

Business owners will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible lawsuit over losses during the APEC summit. KHON4.

Hawaii

The first group of low-income residents will move in to the Kaloko Housing units as early as Dec. 1, HOPE Services Hawaii CEO Brandee Menino said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

As the Hawaii County Council plans its 10th meeting on a new county building code, Council Chairman Dominic Yagong is asking architects, contractors, owner-builders, trade unions and anyone else with an interest to submit amendments to make construction safe and more affordable. West Hawaii Today.

Police say they'll conduct islandwide DUI checkpoints over the Thanksgiving weekend as part of the national campaign "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over." Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Hawaii and Japan on Tuesday agreed to build a smart grid on Maui to demonstrate how solar, wind and other renewable energy sources can be integrated into an electrical grid. Associated Press.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced a project that will invest $37-million-dollars in smart grid technologies on Maui. The entire project is being funded by Japan. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources Board approved "pretty much the final piece of the puzzle" for the expansion of the Kaheawa wind farm, said First Wind spokesman Kekoa Kaluhiwa. Maui News.

Kauai
Makeover and renovations for the former Lihu‘e Courthouse will follow historic guidelines because the building is listed on the Hawai‘i Register and the National Register of Historic Places since 1981. Garden Island.

Attacking, defending new legislative maps, unemployment rates to rise, UH best paid, land agency director named, Hawaiian Telcom imposes contract, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission, in a three-page brief filed Friday with the state Supreme Court, defended its method of dividing the state into House and Senate districts. But Gov. Neil Abercrombie, also a defendant in the lawsuit, said in his reply brief Monday that the process was flawed and should be redone. West Hawaii Today.

Legislators and state officials may increase unemployment taxes next year to the highest levels allowed under state law. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii State Salaries 2012: Highest Paid at University of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Former Campbell Estate land manager Lloyd Haraguchi has been named executive director to head a new state agency with broad powers to develop state land. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Telcom said Monday it will impose on union members a contract the workers rejected last month. Star-Advertiser.

At least 14 states have revamped their pension systems in the past five years to prevent employees from "spiking" their pay to pad retirement benefits. Civil Beat.

A federal agent charged with murder in the shooting death of a man in a Hawaii McDonald's restaurant pleaded not guilty at his arraignment Monday. Associated Press.

There’s an old saying, “It’s better to use a carrot than a stick” to persuade people to do things.  That idea is being used to encourage businesses in Hawai`i to step up their level of sustainability. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

The 1-megawatt photovoltaic system that will supply power to the Kapolei Sustainable Energy Park has won final approval. Pacific Business News.

City Councilman Tom Berg has apologized for his argumentative actions at a Waipahu Neighborhood Board meeting last week that escalated to the point where police were called to maintain order. Star-Advertiser.

City Council To Review Neighborhood Board Video. KITV4.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) wants to inform drivers that archaeological survey work continues in the urban Honolulu area for the rail transit project. Hawaii Independent.

Board of Water Supply crews are working to repair three separate water main breaks on Oahu Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Officials at PBS Hawaii say the damaged caused by Friday's fire is much more severe than previously thought. KHON2.

Hawaii

Testifiers Monday evening were full of praise for the Hawaii County Redistricting Commission. West Hawaii Today.

The annual Toys for Tots Motorcade that attracts hundreds of motorcyclists anxious to donate Christmas presents to needy keiki will be held after all, the event's main organizer said Monday. Tribune-Herald.

A Wyoming-based company has purchased three Big Island radio stations, a court broker said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

After years of uncertainty for kuleana users about their rights to Na Wai Eha's water, the state Water Resource Management Commission has started the distribution process. Maui News.

A Facebook friend sent Shawn Michael a sarcastic map of places tourists should visit in Australia - sample gag: in the middle, in big letters: NOTHING - and Michael thought he could do the same for Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

On one side of the table sit consumers and the right to know what they are about to eat. On the other side sits an increasingly dominant section of the food industry reluctant to spend money on labeling its products with three letters: GMO, the abbreviation for genetically modified organisms. Garden Island.

The tree trimmers working at Bank of Hawai‘i’s Kapa‘a Branch battled not only the brisk trades but the clock on Sunday. Garden Island.

Hawaii work incentives cut, feeding the homeless, 25th Infantry coming home, Maui water woes continue, cops thwart motorcyclists' Toys for Tots program, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii holiday food line (c) All Hawaii News

Just a few blocks from where oblivious tourists step off cruise ships to pick through souvenirs, there's an entirely different world. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii ex-welfare recipient work incentives cut. Associated Press.

Democratic Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa can't remember the last time she cried. Civil Beat.

After hovering around $4 a gallon last week, the average price of regular gasoline dropped below the $4 a gallon mark in Honolulu this weekend. But the neighbor islands are not seeing the same price drop. Associated Press.

Louie: Gov. still doesn’t have to release names of judicial nominees. Pacific Business News.

After five years under federal oversight due to prisoner abuses, the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility has become a safe place with an improved corporate culture, state officials maintain. Star-Advertiser.

While the Occupy movement has been smaller and quieter in Hawaii than elsewhere, the music of one Hawaiian musician is gaining attention as a protest song for the campaign. Hawaii Public Radio.

Waikiki Torch Runner Surprised By International Attention. KITV4.

Oahu

The Army plans to welcome home the 25th Infantry Division's headquarters unit from Iraq this week. KITV4.

Higher room rates and higher occupancy led to a 30 percent increase in revenue over the six-day period in which the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering brought together 21 world leaders along with top government and business officials in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

City Pays Landfill Operator $2.6M for Spill Cleanup. Civil Beat.

Small waves make for slow business on Oahu's North Shore. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Motorcyclists accustomed to rumbling through Hilo before distributing Christmas presents to needy children claim police have rained on their parade. Tribune-Herald.

The troubled Hoku Ke'a telescope atop Mauna Kea could be operational by next summer, its director said. Tribune-Herald.

A group that won the right to turn Laupahoehoe School into a charter school is refusing to hold elections for a board to govern the school as promised in its application and as ordered by the Charter School Review Panel. Star-Advertiser.

Kona once again has a University of Hawaii College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources Cooperative Extension Service agent to call its own. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council Member Mike Victorino said he believes that the time may be past for the county to tell developers, "show me the water." Maui News.

A Maui businessman said last week that he had abandoned plans to develop a bottled-water plant in Waihee, after some of his investors walked away from the project. Maui News.

Behind the scenes of Maui's agriculture inspection facility. KHON2.

Kauai

The tree trimmers working at Bank of Hawai‘i’s Kapa‘a Branch battled not only the brisk trades but the clock on Sunday. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Robotics Alliance is offering imu service for Thanksgiving as a fundraiser for its season which starts in January. Garden Island.