Hawaii governor, teachers union in mediation, Kona coffee brand at risk, Maui native among SEALs killed, Big Island prison could reopen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kona coffee cherry (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii farmer Paul Uster was on vacation in California when he saw a package of Kona coffee blend in a supermarket that he knew would upset fellow growers back home on Hawaii island. Associated Press.

Kraig Vickers, a 1992 graduate of Maui High School and a Maui Interscholastic League defensive football player of the year, was among 30 Americans who died in a U.S. military helicopter shot down during fighting in Afghanistan, his father, Robert Vickers, confirmed by telephone Saturday night. Maui News.

HSTA votes in support of mediation talks with Gov. Abercrombie. KHON2.

10 legislators in the 76-member Hawaii Legislature raised no money during the same period. Civil Beat.

Plans by the state’s electric companies to invest in biodiesel, and pass the investment costs onto its rate payers, lie in the hands of the Public Utilities Commission and the testimonies of Hawaii residents. Hawaii Independent.

A member of the state Public Utilities Commission is resigning to return to work in the private sector. Associated Press.

Closed nearly two years ago to save money, Hawaii Island's former prison could be reopened to house up to 200 inmates now incarcerated on the mainland. Tribune-Herald.

A state judge has ruled again in favor of the Sierra Club in its attempt to stop the 5,000-home Koa Ridge development. Star-Advertiser.

The first of several monk seal public forums kick off Monday night. Hawaii News Now.

After trying to spare families more financial pain over the past two years, private schools are making larger tuition increases to try to keep up with rising costs. Star-Advertiser.

Years of planning resulted in success last week when the state Board of Education granted a charter for the Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School. Tribune-Herald.

Except for Mayor Billy Kenoi, there was very little fundraising among Hawaii County Council members or likely mayoral candidates the first half of this year, according to campaign finance reports filed by Monday's midnight deadline. West Hawaii Today.

A Nuuanu church is defending its decision to allow a cellphone carrier to install antennas on its building, despite an outcry from some neighbors over radiation exposure. Star-Advertiser.

More than 1,800 plant scientists from around the world are on Oahu. KHON2.

Lloyd Y. Kimura has been sentenced by the state of Hawaii to 20 years in prison and ordered to pay more than $8 million in restitution for defrauding more than 50 investors of between $7 million and $20 million. Pacific Business News.

Chakkree Sriphabun is one of 44 men who left his family behind in Thailand in September 2004 to come to Hawaii to work for Mike and Alec Sou at Aloun Farms. Hawaii Reporter.

Some of the County Council districts now serving Hilo are migrating southward toward Puna, according to proposed redistricting maps released last week. Tribune-Herald.

The number of Big Island residents approved for the use of medical marijuana has declined sharply, according to statistics provided by the state Department of Public Safety. Tribune-Herald.

Two weeks of significant wave erosion at Kekaha Beach forced the county to push the lifeguard tower mauka from its sandy shoreline perch Saturday. Garden Island.

A group of very lucky students working on a science fair project were invited onboard a barge to experience a real world undersea mission. KITV4.

Pele awakes: Kilauea Volcano gives Hawaii visitors a show with new eruption

Adrian Boone /Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

 

 

 

Media release:

Hawai‘i National Park, HI – Kīlauea’s new eruption action from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō vent’s west flank and the glow from Halema‘uma‘u crater continue to draw visitors to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and while rangers prepare for a busy weekend, multi-agency fire managers work on extinguishing fires sparked by the new flows.

Park-goers on Thursday evening enjoyed views of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō’s west flank eruption from several spots. Rosy clouds of gas and ash were visible from the bottom of Chain of Craters Road looking up towards Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō, where nearly 600 visitors gathered. At Pu‘u Huluhulu, hundreds of flashlight-wielding hikers made the two-and-a-half mile round-trip trek and were treated to a rare “double header” of lava activity: a deep orange glow from Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō’s advancing flows about six miles away, plus a reddish glow from Kīlauea’s summit eruption at Halema‘uma‘u crater about 12 miles away. Newly installed reflectors mark the trail, but hikers must have flashlights, drinking water and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

Spectators at Jaggar Museum overlook got the reverse view, a steady glow emitting from Halema‘uma‘u Crater, with views of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō’s new activity to the southeast.

Park rangers made several flights over the new flow, and estimate it has added approximately 615 acres of new lava.

“It’s an exciting and memorable time to visit Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, and we’re expecting a busy weekend,” said Talmadge Magno, Chief Ranger and Incident Commander. “Safety is our first priority, but because of careful monitoring of fire smoke and SO2 levels, we were able to reopen Chain of Craters Road on Thursday, and viewing opportunities are safe and can be superb, weather permitting.”

Park rangers will be stationed at Pu‘u Huluhulu until 8:30 p.m. and at Jaggar Museum until 9 p.m. through the weekend. And while rangers prepare for an influx of visitors, fire crews have been working on putting out blazes and monitoring conditions.

A wildfire, estimated at six acres total, was ignited by lava and burned through forests of native Hawaiian and alien vegetation. A small blaze on the southern branch of the flow was nearly contained Friday afternoon. Seven firefighters were flown in by helicopter, and used hand tools, chainsaws and water from 80-gallon bladder bags to suppress the fire.

Meanwhile, a multi-agency emergency response team mobilized at the Visitor Emergency Operations Center in the park, keeping close tabs on current eruption conditions and another fire, estimated at five acres, at the north stretch of Pu‘u ‘Ō‘ō’s flow.

Approximately 30 personnel from agencies including Hawai‘i County Civil Defense, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park’s Fire Management team, U.S. Geological Survey, Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of Forestry and Wildlife, and Whiskeytown National Park were called into action.

“Right now we’re not sending any crews into the fire to the north but will watch it closely. Conditions are too hazardous,” said Fire Management Officer Joe Molhoek. In addition to methane explosions and tree snags, giant earth cracks make the ground treacherous.

The fires, and the recent flows, are entirely within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. No residential areas are currently threatened. 

Most areas within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park are open. Closures due to potentially hazardous emissions include Nāulu Trail, Nāpau Trail to Nāpau Crater, and

Crater Rim Drive past Jaggar Museum (unchanged since March 2008).

Tax relief for cash businesses, NRC chides Army for depleted uranium, Lingle in Democrats' crosshairs, Hawaii farm trafficker case tossed out of court, Kona, Kauai airports under fire, more Hawaii news

Aloun Farms courtesy photo

In a courtroom disaster for the federal government, prosecutors this morning dismissed all criminal charges against brothers Alec and Mike Sou, accused in 2009 of illegally importing and exploiting farm laborers from Thailand. Hawaii Reporter.

Cleared of human trafficking charges, farmers Alec and Mike Sou want to get back to growing crops instead of defending themselves against allegations they forced 44 workers from Thailand to harvest melons, lettuce and pumpkins. Associated Press.

Jurors in the Aloun Farms human trafficking case were stunned by the mid-trial dismissal of all charges Thursday, but said it made sense given that the prosecution had put up a weak case. Civil Beat.

The abrupt collapse of the federal government's prosecution of the Aloun Farms brothers likely will affect how the court handles the related case against Global Horizons Manpower, several attorneys associated with the cases said. Star-Advertiser.

Mike and Alec Sou were just boys when their family arrived as refugees from Laos and began farming a small plot of land in Waianae in 1977, pulling out thorny kiawe bushes and rocks to clear the land. Star-Advertiser.

“What a relief!” Kapolei farmer Alex Sou said to the press after the federal government dropped its long-running criminal case against him and his brother, Mike. Hawaii Reporter.

After three days of trial in the human trafficking case against the owners of Aloun Farms, federal prosecutors on Thursday made a startling move of asking the presiding judge to throw out the charges "in the interest of justice." Hawaii News Now.

Federal prosecutors on Thursday morning dropped charges against two Hawaii businessman on trial in a human trafficking case. KITV4.

It was a stunning turn of events. KHON2.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has wrapped up its investigation of depleted uranium at Pohakuloa Training Area and Schofield Barracks by issuing a "Notice of Violation." West Hawaii Today.

The manager of the Kona Airport has been disciplined for mismanagement, while the manager of Lihue Airport was fired, after numerous complaints about mismanagement on Kauai. KITV4.

National Democrats are setting traps for former Gov. Linda Lingle as she considers a campaign for the U.S. Senate, depicting the Republican as a "partisan bomb-thrower" whose poor judgment led to teacher furloughs that closed public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Tax collectors are taking a gentler approach in going after cash business that bend state tax rules. Hawaii News Now.

Historic Ewa Airfield proposed site for renewable energy park. KHON2.

The ever-changing, ever-growing  market on Oahu is about to get even tighter. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii regulatory agency hears testimony on proposed energy project. Civil Beat.

The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services announced today it has lifted a moratorium on new sewer connections in the Waimanalo Wastewater Treatment Plant service area. Hawaii Independent.

Kilauea Volcano hadn't yet started its current eruption when Hawaii Volcanoes National Park last updated its management plan. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Conservation Conference on O’ahu ended today. The focus during one session was on non-native animals and what to do about them. Hawaii Public Radio.

Improved imaging quality and new software technologies have scientists aiming to map, locate and eliminate invasive plant species before they have a chance to threaten Hawai‘i’s delicate watersheds. Garden Island.

For years, Ocean View scofflaws have used a lava tube near Paradise Parkway and Ohia Drive as their own illegal landfill. West Hawaii Today.

Police arrested and charged three people suspected of operating three separate marijuana farms this week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. reported a net loss of $2.5 million for the second quarter on Wednesday. Maui News.

Proposed Hawaii legislative districts put 6 incumbents at risk, Board of Education rethinks impact fees, Hawaii a financial 'sinkhole,' Kilauea Volcano on the move, Honolulu sludge-slinging continues, Maui mulls island names, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Aquaculture courtesy photo

A lawsuit filed today in Hawaii’s Federal District Court challenges a fishing gear permit issued to Kona Blue Water Farm by the National Marine Fisheries Service for its open ocean aquaculture “aquapods.” Hawaii Independent.

Two environmental organizations have sued the federal government to block a permit issued to a Big Island company aiming to grow amberjack, or Hawaiian yellowtail, at a farm in federal waters off the Big Island. Associated Press.

New Hawaii political maps unveiled Wednesday create competitions among incumbents in three state House districts, preserve each island's representation in the state Legislature and move the urban Honolulu congressional district to the west. Associated Press.

Six state representatives would find themselves in House districts with another incumbent under a proposed redistricting plan that redraws the state's political boundaries to represent changes in the isles' population over the past decade. Star-Advertiser.

The non-partisan Institute for Truth in Accounting has identified Hawaii as a "Sinkhole" state because it is one of five states in the worst financial position in the country. Hawaii Reporter.

Governor Neil Abercrombie addressed the nearly one thousand attendees at the Hawai’i Conservation Conference today. Hawaii Public Radio.

How do other states deal with members of task forces lobbying legislators on task force matters? Civil Beat.

Despite tight finances, the state Department of Education was able to lengthen the school day at dozens of campuses, exceeding the requirement of a new instructional-hours law for this school year. Star-Advertiser.

A series of legal stumbling blocks have Hawaii State Board of Education members rethinking a tax designed to help construct new schools. Civil Beat.

Prosecutors in the Aloun Farms forced labor trial lost another bid Wednesday to delay the proceedings, then took testimony from a key witness who implicated defendant Alec Sou in a scheme to underpay imported Thai workers and to collect $2,500 in kickbacks for every laborer he hired. Hawaii Reporter.

Lava flooded out of the base of the western flank of Pu'u 'O'o on Wednesday afternoon, sending a broad flood of pahoehoe downhill and into virgin forest. Tribune-Herald.

One of Hawaii's two refineries isn't producing gas right now and will not be for days.Hawaii News Now.

After a year and a half of work, the Maui Visitors Bureau has to come up with one word that reflects the character of each island. Garden Island.

After weeks of back-and-forth finger-pointing, the Honolulu City Council might be ready to give Mayor Peter Carlisle the money he asked for to build new sewage infrastructure. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council member Ikaika Anderson said he will submit a letter to Mayor Peter Carlisle today, asking him to approve funding for an alternative method for treating sewage sludge so the city can avoid trucking raw sewage sludge from the Sand Island treatment plant. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council’s Budget Committee held an informational briefing Wednesday about the administration’s plan to place police initiated tows under a single contract. KHON2.

Hawaii County taxpayers are on the hook for $117,000 in legal fees stemming from a failed condemnation action for the Hokulia bypass road. West Hawaii Today.

The American Civil Liberties Union is asking five law enforcement agencies in Hawaii what procedures they use to track citizens using cell phone location data, part of a nationwide campaign targeting police, sheriffs and other law agencies across the country. KITV4.

The ACLU has formally asked the Hawaii Police Department to disclose whether police have ever used citizens' cell phone location data without a warrant. Tribune-Herald.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative starts capital patronage refunds. Garden Island.

HiBeam, a Hawaii nonprofit created to help launch and build promising early-stage Hawaii technology companies, is focusing on bridging the gap between businesses here and global markets in Asia. Pacific Business News.

The Nature Conservancy has received a $1.1 million grant to protect Hawaii forests from invasive weeds. Associated Press.

The sudden, early Wednesday morning removal of Pine Tree Inn is being received with mixed emotions depending on who you ask in the community. Garden Island.

Hawaii's bottom fishing season begins September 1. KITV4.

Poet laureate praises Hawaii conservation, PUC gets earful on biofuel surcharge, Honolulu spruces up for APEC, DNC blasts Case for leaking poll results, Maui realtors tangle over sign laws, Hawaii County Building goes 100% solar, Abercrombie visits Hilo, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Neil Abercrombie courtesy photo

Everywhere Gov. Neil Abercrombie went on his whirlwind tour of Hilo on Tuesday, he received warm smiles, rapturous applause and vigorous handshakes. He also got a little taste of Big Isle stink eye from groups angered by the state's handling of the recently aborted contract negotiations with the public school teachers' union. Tribune-Herald.

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has criticized former Congressman Ed Case for publicly releasing a private poll that shows U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, a fellow Democrat, trailing former Gov. Linda Lingle in a hypothetical matchup for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Clayton Hee has more money in his political war chest than the mayor of Honolulu and the governor, according to his latest campaign finance report. Civil Beat.

There’s still more than a year before the Aug. 11, 2012, primary election, but politicians are already jockeying for position. Pacific Business News.

The state Senate and state ethics director are in an escalating dispute over whether members of state task forces are restricted from lobbying. Star-Advertiser.

In addition to paying more for their share of health insurance, the rates for public employees will be going up 10 percent. KHON2.

Hawaii is forging ahead with clean energy developments that put the state on the leading edge of the nation’s - and perhaps the world’s - renewable energy efforts, according to Hawaii government officials. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii County officials on Tuesday unveiled the local government's newest electric source -- 1,275 photovoltaic panels that will produce up to 250 kilowatts when they're running at full capacity. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission got an earful Tuesday when it held a public hearing on an application to spread the cost of a proposed Ka'u biofuel refinery to electricity customers on Oahu and the Big Island. West Hawaii Today.

The nation's poet laureate told a meeting of scientists and others involved in protecting Hawaii's natural resources that they're doing work of "desperate importance" as the world's species become extinct at an increasingly rapid rate. Associated Press.

It’s estimated that 80 to 90 percent of our food is imported. This is an alarming rate for our island state because any disruption to food supply lines would leave us with less than a week of food. Hawaii Independent.

The Aloun Farms human trafficking trial is less than two days into testimony and already it looks like the prosecution has dug itself a deep hole. Civil Beat.

Federal designation of new Big Island flood zones could force thousands of landowners to buy flood insurance and meet more-costly construction standards. Tribune-Herald.

Real estate agents on Monday said they understood why the county wanted to keep the public right of way free of signs but questioned why authorities were disposing of "open house" signs that were left up for just a few hours. Maui News.

Forget the red-carpet treatment. A more than $137 million makeover of Oahu's transportation and tourism infrastructure has turned the coming Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting into more of a blacktop affair. Star-Advertiser.

A newly completed study estimates the City could save 10 million dollars in five years by merging the Honolulu Fire Department and the City Department of Emergency Services. Hawaii Public Radio.

Staff from Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore are planning to hold an open house next week to answer questions and take comments on ideas for managing the refuge. Associated Press.

Researcher suggests more specific ocean warnings. Hawaii News Now.

Close to 500 people lined Salt Lake Boulevard to wave signs in support of crime prevention programs.KITV4.

Wilcox Elementary now has a new greenhouse, made possible through a $77,945 Youth Advisory Board grant from State Farm Insurance. Garden Island.

The tiny Kalaupapa post office serves as the lifeline to its residents. However, United States Postal Service (USPS) budget deficits and decreased use of “snail mail” around the county have put that lifeline in jeopardy. Molokai Dispatch.

Honolulu councilman calls Hawaii GOP 'skinheads,' 76% recycle rate means no HI-5 increase, Kauai ends curbside recycling, back to the drawing board for Hawaii County building code, residents fight cell towers, sewer sludge, rail transit, DOE layoffs loom without contract, more Hawaii news

Hawaii damselfly, Dan Polhemus/USFWS

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Monday proposed adding 23 shrubs, trees and flies from Oahu to the endangered species list, as well as designating about 68 square miles of the island as their critical habitat. Associated Press.

Four plants that are among the "rarest of the rare" in the world are now being considered for protection under the Endangered Species Act, along with three Hawaii damselflies and 16 other plants that can be found on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

About 700 employees could be laid off if the state Department of Education is ordered to cancel the pay cuts, furloughs and higher health care premiums for teachers it unilaterally imposed July 1, the state said in a Hawaii Labor Relations Board filing Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Recycling fees paid on every drink container sold in Hawaii won't be raised for at least one more year, the state Department of Health announced Monday. Associated Press.

Kauai County officials announced that the pilot curbside recycling program currently in place in Puhi and portions of Lihu‘e is scheduled to end this month. Garden Island.

Hawaii residents on Wednesday will get their first look at maps describing new political districts for the state House and Senate, maps that aren't likely to hold good news for the neighbor islands. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie spent far more than he raised during the first six months of the year, leaving his campaign more than $30,000 in the red, according to his latest campaign finance report filed Monday. Civil Beat.

State Lawmakers Wonder About Impacts of Compromise Debt Limit Bill Passed by U.S. House. Hawaii Public Radio.

CNN’s Chief Political Correspondent Candy Crowley spoke to legislators from 13 Western states who gathered in Waikiki on Monday, August 1, for the Council of State Governments  West division meeting. Hawaii Reporter.

Case's Poll Shows Him Ahead in US Senate Race. Hawaii Reporter.

Not in my backyard!  It's a battle cry a growing number of Hawaii residents are saying about cell phone towers and antennas being built in residential neighborhoods. KHON2.

Hundreds of illegal vacation rentals generating millions of dollars could be shut down under a proposal city officials hope will make it easier to enforce the law that bans short-term rentals without a permit. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Bob Herkes says foreclosures were getting out of control, so he did something about them. West Hawaii Today.

A state senator from Ewa said poor planning may have led to the city's decision to haul sewage from one of its overloaded treatment plants to other plants on the island. KITV4.

The Public Utilities Commission is holding some important public hearings on Tuesday and Thursday on the Big Island and Oahu concerning the proposed Hawaiian Electric Co./Aina Koa Pono-Kau LLC biofuel contract. Pacific Business News.

City Councilman Tom Berg doesn't hold back in city council meetings or as it turns out in voice mails. Hawaii News Now.

Former Governor Linda Lingle delivered a keynote address on Friday and strongly emphasized the need for greater school choice in Hawaii, while criticizing the Hawaii State Teachers Association and legislators of “maintaining the status quo”. Hawaii Reporter.

Several city councilmembers say the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit - or HART - isn't being as transparent as it should about staffing, job descriptions, and salaries. Hawaii News Now.

The Downtown Neighborhood Board is scheduled to meet Thursday, August 4 to hear and discuss a variety of issues that affect residents, businesses, and governments agencies now and for the future. Hawaii Independent.

More than 300 pot plants seized. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Building Code is not pau yet. West Hawaii Today.

One of Maui's well-known Hawaiian community members, Kahu Charles Kauluwehi Maxwell Sr., ordained a grandson as a kahu, or minister, on Sunday, saying it was time to pass the spiritual torch after falling gravely ill two weeks ago. Maui News.

Kona girl gets message in a bottle, good-bye to cursive, tougher standards for Hawaii schools, Honolulu rail fight on track, Big Island hospitals get trauma designation, Maui Electric seeks rate hike,

Waikiki pedestrians (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's lieutenant governor has proclaimed August "Pedestrian Safety Month" in an effort to make the Aloha State a safer place to walk. Associated Press.

Oregon boy's letter travels across Pacific, discovered by girl on Kona beach. West Hawaii Today.

New rules regulating commercial activities in state waters, directly affecting Hanalei Bay, will soon go into effect. Garden Island.

At Hawaii public schools, cursive writing could be going the way of the abacus. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's new digital tracking system for students could revolutionize the way teachers prepare for school. Civil Beat.

In the new school year that kicks off today, public school teachers will begin rolling out tougher standards for math and reading, requiring students to dive into more complex texts and critical thinking. Star-Advertiser.

Some Big Island educators say they feel like they've been slapped in the face after Gov. Neil Abercrombie called off contract negotiations with the state teachers' union.Tribune-Herald.

An estimated 500 people, including state legislators, their staffers and family members, are in Hawaii this week for the 64th annual meeting of the Council on State Governments-West. Hawaii News Now.

Two Big Island hospitals are due to be recognized this week for providing Level III trauma care. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Beth Giesting as the Healthcare Transformation Coordinator, a new position, established by an executive order. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Health Systems Corp. said it has finalized a $28.7 million contract with Siemens Healthcare to implement an electronic medical records system across the state. Pacific Business News.

Maui Electric Company filed a request with the Public Utilities Commission  last week for a 6.7 percent rate increase for Maui County customers next year. Molokai Dispatch.

Nearly 20 years after it was envisioned, the upscale Hokulia development is in limbo. West Hawaii Today.

The Oahu residents fighting to halt Honolulu's planned rail line are largely relying on the National Environmental Policy Act to help them do it. Civil Beat.

City Council Chairman Ernie Martin worries that Honolulu's planned rapid transit system could see increased costs and delays because of problems with the company that won a $1.45 billion contract to design, build, operate and maintain the rail cars. Star-Advertiser.

Opening of pediatric dental facility at Maui Memorial Medical Center ‘big deal’ Maui News.

Something is killing large sections of rose apple trees along the Like Like highway and the worry is that a related strain of the disease could attack the more important native ohia forests. KITV4.

The fate of the Hawaii County Council's rented Waimea office is at the center of the latest spat between majority lawmakers and Mayor Billy Kenoi. Tribune-Herald.

Honolulu preps for Western legislators, UPW mulls strike, Hawaii elevator inspections lag, Maui seeks pickup bed passenger ban, no homeless shuffle for APEC, Big Island removes military, students for redistricting, Senate seeks feedback on Twitter updates, more Hawaii news

Honolulu homeless (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Honolulu has no intention of moving homeless people from Waikiki for November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference, but parks and sidewalks could be temporarily cleared for cleanup, a city official told a group of state legislators Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

With the international spotlight on Honolulu for the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, the idea of creating "safe zones" for homeless people has become popular among some state lawmakers. Civil Beat.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum is scheduled to convene in Waikiki in about one hundred days. Hawaii Public Radio.

The expertise of the East-West Center and its importance in relations with the Asia-Pacific region will be on display as lawmakers from 13 Western states gather in Honolulu this weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The state of Hawaii has already spent $1.329 billion of the total $1.824 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds received to date, but just 2,046 jobs have been created. Hawaii Reporter.

With time running out for Congress to reach a deal on raising the debt limit, Gov. Neil Abercrombie began taking steps Thursday to ensure the state would be protected if the government is unable to meet its obligations. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie says he has a contingency plan if the federal debt crisis stops the flow of hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. spending here next week. Hawaii Reporter.

Three Hawaii Senate committees this past session participated in a pilot project to “tweet” updates and other information during committee hearings. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday said he is open to "adjustments or mediation" to resolve the contract impasse with the Hawaii State Teachers Association, but he says the state hasn't received any formal offer. Civil Beat.

The United Public Worker's Union, which is unhappy about proposed pay cuts, is voting on whether to authorize a strike. Hawaii News Now.

Blue collar workers represented by the United Public Workers union appear ready to play hardball in their contract negotiations with the state and the four counties. KHON2.

An art teacher from Kalani High School used his creative side to protest changes to teachers' pay as he marched in front of the state Capitol on Thursday. KITV4.

Most state and county workers in Hawaii saw a $45 to $250 drop in take-home pay this month because they are now paying a larger share of their health insurance costs. Star-Advertiser.

The next time you’re in a building with an elevator, you may want to consider taking the stairs. Garden Island.

Governor Neil Abercrombie Thursday announced Beth Giesting as the state's new Healthcare Transformation Coordinator.Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie will make stops around the island during a visit to Maui on Friday and Saturday. Maui News.

The terms “renewable energy” and “energy efficiency”—previously catchwords for policy wonks at NGO’s and Bay Area progressives—have now entered the demotic as they have become necessary goals for our future environmental and financial survival. Hawaii Independent.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning has scaled the first major regulatory hurdle to constructing a $250 million system to help downtown businesses cut their electricity bills. KITV4.

Unlike its state counterpart, the Hawaii County Redistricting Commission has agreed to leave nonresident military families and students out of its population counts when drawing new political maps. West Hawaii Today.

Maui Police, councilor seek to ban passengers in beds of pickups. Maui News.

The Hawaii County Wastewater Division is considering a sewer rate increase. West Hawaii Today.

Under fire for mismanagement, George N. Crabbe, the manager of the Lihue Airport, has turned in his keys, airport ID and official cell phone, according to state transportation department employees. KITV4.

The Palace Theater and Hilo Downtown Improvement Association are presenting a "Town Hall Meeting" with Police Chief Harry Kubojiri and staff Thursday, Aug. 11 at the Palace. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii shark sightings up, Chinatown residents protest crime, Kauai honored for GIS work, Honolulu foreclosures down while buildings vacant, Big Island girds for furloughs, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honeybee (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Beetles that pose a serious threat to honeybees have been detected on Maui and Molokai. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has not achieved the policy goal of aligning five of the state's major boards and commissions with his "A New Day in Hawaii" agenda, but the governor said Wednesday he still believes he took the right approach in asking former Gov. Linda Lingle's appointees to resign. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public schoolers return to the classroom on Monday, but their teachers have already been there for days and weeks — in some cases months. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island households spend roughly six percent of their income on electricity, which is nearly three times the national average of two percent. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie unveiled the first charging station for electric vehicles in a state owned building Monday. Hawaii News Now.

A coalition of health and human services agencies conducted its annual meeting today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Dozens of people fed up with crime in Chinatown joined forces Wednesday night. Hawaii News Now.

How well do you know your Public Utilities Commission? Hawaii Independent.

The County of Kaua‘i was recognized for its recent work building technological systems that improve public safety efforts. Garden Island.

The Honolulu Reapportionment Commission deferred action on whether to include nonresident populations such as military members and their dependents in the overall island population count for the purposes of redistricting. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki will be center stage for activity surrounding November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, but the highest-profile meeting and finale of the seven-day event will take place about 25 miles away at Ko Olina. Star-Advertiser.

Jury selection for the trial of Aloun Farms Owners Michael Mankone Sou and Alec Souphone Sou began Wednesday with more than 100 potential jurors interviewed in U.S. District Court. Hawaii Reporter.

The state is seeking applications from landowners and local land trusts looking for funds to protect forested lands. Associated Press.

Foreclosures in the Honolulu metropolitan area decreased by more than 30 percent during the first six months of the year, according to new statistics from RealtyTrac. Pacific Business News.

Dozens of highly visible commercial properties are sitting vacant in Honolulu and Waikiki. KITV4.

While recorded confirmed shark sightings show an uptick, one researcher claims the only thing increasing is the community's presence and awareness. West Hawaii Today.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. announced Tuesday night at the end of a packed meeting that the county has selected a site for a youth drug treatment center on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Maui County finished the first half of 2011 with a gain of about 80,000 visitors, or 6.5 percent over January-June 2010. Maui News.

Two Hawaii County councilmen have cleared the decks for a potential Dominic Yagong-Billy Kenoi mayoral match-up next year. West Hawaii Today.

Another Hawaii County Environmental Management director bites the dust. Frank DeMarco, the mayor's second appointee to the post, is stepping down. West Hawaii Today.

On Maui, more than 20 dancers took part in a Tahitian dance flash mob. KHON2.

Most Hawaii County offices that serve the public will be closed on Friday, which will be the first county employee furlough day of the new fiscal year. Tribune-Herald.

The cost of living on the islands continues to rise as Young Brothers, Ltd. seeks to increase their shipping rates. Molokai Dispatch.

A sugar glider, a small marsupial that looks like a flying squirrel, was grounded Monday by Honolulu police. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii seeks legal help in teacher dispute, residents swamp Hanabusa office over deficit crisis, tourists decline but spending up, DLNR views Army landing zones, turtle back on Maui beach, more Hawaii news

Blackhawk on Mauna Kea (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Officials with the state Department of Land and Natural Resources boarded Black Hawk helicopters Tuesday and visited six proposed landing zones on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, but said they weren't ready to comment on the Army's application to train pilots there. West Hawaii Today.

Col. Frank Tate

The state wants $50,000 worth of private legal help in its contract dispute with the public teachers union. Hawaii Reporter.

Last week, Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed an executive order that establishes the Hawaii Interagency Council on Homelessness. Hawaii Independent.

The state will receive up to 13-million dollars in matching federal venture capital funding over the next two years. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii residents concerned over the potential loss of Social Security, Medicare and other federal benefits if Congress is unable to reach a deal to raise the debt ceiling flooded a "telephone town hall" by U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa to seek answers on what to expect if a compromise is not struck by Tuesday.Star-Advertiser.

The number of visitors traveling to Hawaii declined in June for the first time in nearly two years amid rising airfares, but visitor spending continued to rise at a near-record pace, the Hawaii Tourism Authority reported Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's green sea turtle expert felt "great excitement" when he learned this summer that "Maui Girl" had come to nest in Lahaina again. Maui News.

The Honolulu Board of Water Supply could raise its rates soon. Even so, Oahu residents will still pay less than for their water than residents in other cities. Civil Beat.

The U.S. Postal Service has announced a list of more than 3,600 post offices across the country it may shut down, including four in Hawaii. KITV4.

One of Matson Navigation Co.’s containerships will be sailing onto U.S. Postal Service stamps starting Thursday. Pacific Business News.

Maui county officials want residents to know a phone survey regarding housing issues on the Valley Isle is not a scam. KHON2.

Darryl Oliveira is retiring as Hawaii County fire chief next Sunday, but he's not going anywhere. Tribune-Herald.

Operation Green Harvest raids this month resulted in one arrest and the removal of $1.38 million worth of marijuana plants on Kaua‘i, county officials said. Garden Island.

An overflow crowd and a panel of experts listen to opening remarks by Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. on Tuesday evening at the Lihu‘e Neighborhood Center during the third meeting in a series about the county’s proposed site for an adolescent drug treatment center on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Faced with its first losing quarter in three years Hawaiian Airlines is raising the fee it charges for luggage on interisland flights. Hawaii News Now.

The Philippine navy's newest and biggest ship, a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter re-flagged as the BRP Gregorio del Pilar, will pull into Pearl Harbor this morning for a brief port visit before heading on to Guam and the Philippines. Star-Advertiser.

Patrick DeLeon, chief of staff to U.S. Sen. Daniel K. Inouye in Washington, D.C., is retiring. Star-Advertiser.

A police narcotics dog in West Hawaii will retire Friday and live out his days in Waimea, according to the Police Department. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii farmworker trafficking case in court, angry teachers unfriending Gov. Abercrombie on Facebook, fishing cap raised, orcas a rare Kauai treat, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Fish rules workshop in Hilo (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's deepwater grouper and snapper stock has apparently rebounded to the point federal authorities are raising the commercial catch limit by 28 percent for the season that starts Sept. 1. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association is officially "unfriending" Gov. Neil Abercrombie, but it's not stopping there. Civil Beat.

The charges and counter charges that continue to fly between the state and the union are taking both into untested areas according to former Hawaii State Teachers Association executive director Joan Husted. Hawaii Independent.

The state says a partial shutdown of the Federal Aviation Administration is not affecting any airport construction projects. KHON2.

The Hawaii Legislature will welcome lawmakers from the 13 Western states of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming to Honolulu July 30-August 2. Hawaii Reporter.

Two brothers who run one of Hawaii’s largest vegetable farms are going to trial this week on federal charges they illegally shipped 44 workers from Thailand, housed them in dirty metal containers and forced them to work for little pay. Associated Press.

Statements that Aloun Farm owners Alec and Mike Sou gave federal prosecutors and law enforcement officials after their plea agreements last year can be used to impeach any future testimony they give in a human-trafficking case, a federal judge has ruled. Star-Advertiser.

Two days before the start of jury selection in their high-profile human trafficking case, the owners of Aloun Farms have asked a federal judge to dismiss more than half a dozen charges against them. Hawaii News Now.

The attorneys for the Alec and Mike Sou say a federal law against forced labor is being taken further than ever before...and asked Judge Susan Oki Mollway to throw the case out. KHON2.

The chief justice of Hawaii's federal court said Monday she will likely permit Civil Beat to live blog an upcoming human trafficking trial from inside the courtroom. Civil Beat.

A team of marine researchers was treated to the unusual sight of a small pod of orcas off Kauai during the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The 14 reptiles turned over to authorities since June 29 have revealed an appetite in Hawaii for illegal, black-market snakes and lizards, which state officials say are likely sneaked in by shipping containers, through package delivery services and even carried by smugglers into airline passenger cabins. Star-Advertiser.

Water customers in Kihei, Wailea and Makena are asked to continue to conserve water this morning after a power outage Sunday knocked out several water sources that primarily serve the South Maui area. Maui News.

Kauai County considers HR department to curb sexual harassment. Garden Island.

Greenways and Trails Law Has Long-Term Goals. Hawaii Public Radio.

A National Park Service team is reviewing plans to preserve the former site of the Honouliuli internment camp. Associated Press.

Hawaiian Airlines says it will begin flying between Honolulu and Sydney on a daily basis all year round to meet higher demand for the service. Associated Press.

Five years ago, after the earth stopped shaking, Kalopa residents found themselves in a nightmare commute. Tribune-Herald.

Part of Kahekili highway was widened in the early 1990s, now residents are meeting to decide what will happen to the rest of the road. KITV4.

This nebula could clear up some questions astronomers have about what happens when a star dies. West Hawaii Today.

Next week, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser is going to start charging for some of its online content, becoming the third Hawaii news outlet to erect such a paywall. Pacific Business News.

When Tim Moyer first noticed the stand of shriveled wiliwili trees on his property above Launiupoko, people told him they were dead and would have to be removed. Maui News.