U.S. Senate campaign simmers through emails, federal judge to hear gay marriage case, voter registration up, Hollywood coming to Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki highrises (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Waikiki may soon see its first new high-rise hotel in more than three years. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge in Hawaii will hear arguments today on whether Gov. Neil Abercrombie should remain as a defendant in a lawsuit by two women who claim they’re being denied the right to marry. Associated Press.

In a campaign email sent out Sunday, Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Ed Case criticized political rival Mazie Hirono for accepting more than $700,000 from political action committees this election season. Civil Beat.

Mazie Hirono last week accused Linda Lingle and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce of being "two peas in a pod" for opposing President Barack Obama's priorities. Civil Beat.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, a candidate for U.S. Senate, missed three additional votes last week so she could continue to fundraise and campaign for the seat left open by the retirement of U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

A $2.2 million expedition that hoped to find wreckage from Amelia Earhart's final flight is on its way back to Hawaii without the dramatic, conclusive plane images searchers were hoping to attain. Associated Press.

Voter registration increased statewide this year for the fourth primary election in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii may require skippers of power driven boats in state waters to complete a boating safety course. Associated Press.

State roundup for July 24. Associated Press.

Oahu
Being Honolulu mayor has its perks. Just ask Peter Carlisle. In November, he rolled out the red carpet for 21 world leaders from the Asia-Pacific region — including President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama — arriving in Honolulu for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation biannual summit. Star-Advertiser.

Not So Public: Open Records Agency Takes Up Civil Beat Appeal, 1 Year Later. Civil Beat.

Reapportionment – the redrawing of Hawai’i’s Legislative boundaries based on population changes in the 2010 Census – has forced a number of veteran lawmakers to face each other in a Primary Election run-off. Hawaii Public Radio.

More highway lanes will soon be available through one of the H-1s bottleneck areas, as lane re-striping gets underway. KHON2.

Hawaii

County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi closed the Hilo Elections Office on Monday for an audit of the county voter registration list, an action a state elections official called unprecedented and a county councilman called “fishy.” West Hawaii Today.

The county Office of Elections was closed Monday for a manual check of its more than 101,000 registered voters and to weed out any irregularities. Tribune-Herald.

Mayors Race Erupts on Big Island Over Geothermal. Civil Beat.

Maui

Two first-time Maui political hopefuls are among the few Hawaii candidates to so far tap into the state's public funding program that matches dollar-for-dollar campaign contributions of $100 or less. Maui News.

The Oscars of the Hawaii coffee industry brewed a lot of interest Saturday at the Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu. Maui News.

Jo Anne Johnson Winer – Maui’s Veteran Public Official. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai may not be getting “The Hunger Games” sequel, but it looks like another Hollywood feature will be filmed in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

The Kaua‘i Charter Review Commission on Monday approved the final list of questions related to proposed Kaua‘i Charter amendments to be included in this year’s ballot. Garden Island.

Next year the Kilauea Lighthouse, the northernmost place of the Main Hawaiian Islands, will celebrate its 100th anniversary. As a result, the Kilauea community is going through a comprehensive restoration. Garden Island.

Lanai

For months, it's been a battle of the Big Wind signs on Lanai. Both pro and anti wind farm factions have draped banners on buildings and placed signs in front yards that read, "No Windmills on Lanai!" or "Wind Power - To Keep Lanai Green." Civil Beat.

Molokai

In order to bring more tangible data to ongoing efforts to better understand Hawaiian monk seals, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has developed a research project that will attach Crittercams, or small video cameras, to the backs of the seals. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii orchid show highlights the best, education experiment yields mixed results, rail tax nets $47M, Hawaii County mayor touts garbage incinerator, Native Hawaiian roll commission starts work, military irks Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Orchid (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Exquisite shapes, vibrant colors, and alluring fragrances of one of the world’s most exotic flowers fascinated attendees of Kona Daifukuji Orchid Club’s 30th annual show and sale Sunday in Honalo. West Hawaii Today.

Ed Case and Mazie Hirono will square off one last time this Thursday, on a primetime debate on Hawaii News Now sponsored with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Music, emotion and the spirit of aloha filled Washington Place on Friday as members of the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission began a yearlong effort to register native Hawaiians toward the creation of a future sovereign government. KITV4.

State officials are touting Hawaii's new policy to deal with the impacts of climate change, from sea-level rise to decreased stream flow. Civil Beat.

In 2010 the state Department of Education formed two "zones of school innovation,"one on the Leeward Coast of Oahu and the other in the Kau-Pahoa region of Hawaii island, in hopes of providing the state's lowest-performing schools with intensive help. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii may require skippers of power driven boats in state waters to complete a boating safety course. Associated Press.

A federal judge in Hawaii has dismissed a human trafficking case against executives and business associates of a labor recruiting company accused of exploiting hundreds of farm workers from Thailand. KITV4.

Oahu
Born in Waipahu. Raised in Hilo. Spend any amount of time with Kirk Caldwell and you're likely to hear those words. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle seems to be everywhere these days. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will receive nearly $47 million in revenue from a surcharge on Hawaii's general excise tax for the second quarter of this year. Pacific Business News.

Waikiki hotels are enjoying higher occupancy this summer despite big increases in average room rates. Pacific Business News.

City purchasing records do not support the Fire Department’s version of how a controversial $175,000 consulting contract was awarded in 2010, a review of those records today showed. Hawaii Reporter.

Health care professionals from all over the state spent several days dealing with a hypothetical large scale tsunami disaster on O’ahu . Hawaii Public Radio.

A national historic landmark is rusting away. The "Falls of Clyde" is docked near the Aloha Tower Marketplace. It was one of the first vessels to sail for Matson and has been around the islands for nearly 100-years. Hawaii News Now.

Changes coming to once popular park near UH Manoa campus. KHON2.

Hawaii

About three months after Hawaii County ended a pilot project for hauling garbage to the west side, Mayor Billy Kenoi said he is now in favor of a waste-to-energy project to resolve the Big Island’s looming landfill crisis. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A candidate forum, featuring Maui County candidates in contested races in the Aug. 11 primary election, will be held 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday and broadcast live on three Akaku: Maui Community Television channels. Maui News.

A grass-roots Maui charity that claimed to be raising $20 million for a 42-acre post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury treatment center for service members has dissolved after being investigated by the state attorney general's office, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

A handful of Maui Meadows residents expressed optimism and excitement about the county's pilot curbside recycling project that county crews were kick-starting Saturday by distributing green and blue carts in the South Maui neighborhood. Maui News.

Kauai
The former USS Kilauea is the latest ship sunk as part of the Rim of the Pacific exercises in and around the Hawaiian Islands. Associated Press.

Kamehameha Schools presented keys to five Hawaiian-focused and conversion charter schools recently who will receive their share of 24 modular buildings donated by Kamehameha Schools totaling $4.8 million. Garden Island.

Molokai

The Marines have backed down from a plan to increase helicopter touch-and-go practice landings at the tiny airport that serves as the lifeline for Kalaupapa. But the Marines continue to anger residents with a proposal to build a helicopter fuel depot "topside" on Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Abercrombie touts positive budget, Honolulu Fire Dept. merger opposed, Hawaiian roll commission advances, Kauai seabird maimings investigated, invasive species council seeks money, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie budget news conference courtesy photo

Hawaii ended the last fiscal year $300 million in the black, prompting Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Thursday to say he wanted to concentrate on restoring some government services like workers killing rats and agriculture inspectors looking out for invasive species. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday that stronger-than-expected state revenue growth last fiscal year could allow the state to restore spending on programs that had been reduced to help balance the budget. Star-Advertiser.

Pointing to an increase of 15 percent in general funds and a positive balance of $306 million at the end of the just-completed fiscal year, the Abercrombie administration says it can likely restore some cuts to programs and positions made over the past 20 months of belt-tightening. Civil Beat.

The state has ended the fiscal year with more than a $300 million positive balance. KHON2.

Hope and optimism were words used repeatedly today when talking about Hawaii's economy. Hawaii News Now.

The commission charged with putting together a roll of Native Hawaiians to form in their own government will announce details of a year-long campaign. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce this week spent another $154,000 on ads endorsing Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle, according to the most recent look into the public files. Civil Beat.

Looking for archived government records? They might be in the freezer. Civil Beat.

Island Air

Island Air launched a new look and logo Thursday as part of the Hawaii airline’s new business plan, which includes replacing and doubling the number of turboprop aircraft in its interisland fleet from four to eight by the end of next year. Pacific Business News.

The neighbor islands will receive $3.44 million to buy new county buses, Hawaii’s congressional delegation announced Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

State Health Director Loretta Fuddy said she is not prepared to support a merger of the city Department of Emergency Services with the Honolulu Fire Department as outlined in a study that's mired in controversy. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health has cautioned Mayor Peter Carlisle against merging the city's Fire and Emergency Services agencies at this time, telling him in a letter Thursday that consolidation "seems premature." Civil Beat.

Honolulu City purchasing records do not support the Fire Department’s version of how a controversial $175,000 consulting contract was awarded in 2010, a review of those records today showed. Hawaii Reporter.

It could take a year and a half to transform a neglected area of Diamond Head into the new home of the Culinary Institute of the Pacific. KITV4.

A businessman was arrested Thursday and charged with harassment for spraying water on people protesting his business that transports kayaks to Kailua Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

KITV returned to Oceanic Time Warner Cable's system in Hawaii Thursday afternoon after a 10-day blackout when the Honolulu ABC affiliate's parent company, Hearst Television Inc., reached an agreement on retransmission fees with the local cable company's parent, Time Warner Cable. Pacific Business News.

A Hawai`i home care company for seniors has been ordered to pay a former employee nearly $200,000  for reportedly discriminating against her age. Hawaii Public Radio.

Former Governor Ben Cayetano: Mayoral Profile. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The two Democrats who want to win over the 27,420 registered voters in Hawaii County's reapportioned Senate District 1 agree that the economy and job creation are priorities for the island's major city, Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

The path to the moon runs through the crater of an ancient cinder cone on Hawaii’s tallest mountain.Tribune-Herald.

There was more talk but no action Thursday on overriding Mayor Billy Kenoi’s veto of three bills passed by the Hawaii County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Absence of Protesters Prompts Council Accusations. Big Island Now.

Big Brothers Big Sisters will expand services to West Hawaii by 2013. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The California landowner developing two large shopping centers in Kihei says plans for the property have always included the possibility of retail despite a legal challenge that contends the land was exclusively intended for a light industrial park. Maui News.

Organizations trying to control or eradicate species from coqui frogs to fire ants and fountain grass are asking the Hawaii Invasive Species Council for $2.9 million in funding for the current fiscal year - including some $260,000 to fight axis deer on Maui and the Big Island. Associated Press.

Unforeseen problems have been encountered by construction crews while replacing a wastewater force main in Lahaina. Maui Now.

Kauai
Ocean forces lifeguard tower relocation, road barriers in Kekaha. Garden Island.

Maiming deaths of seabirds still under investigation. Garden Island.

Kauai County and the Kaua‘i Historical Society are offering free guided walking tours of the County Building in commemoration of the building’s centennial. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii deposit fee going up, Navy tests biofuel at RIMPAC, Hirono misses votes to campaign, Kona coffee farmers warn of fakes, OSHA to take over safety inspections, Lanai group gets standing in Larry Ellison utilities decision, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii recycling center (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The deposit fee for beverage containers in Hawai’i will increase by a half-cent to keep the successful HI-5 recycling program in operation for two more years. Maui Now.

The cost of a beer or soda likely will creep up in September as the state kicks in a half-cent increase of the beverage container fee. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will increase by a half-cent the bottle deposit fee that the state charges beverage manufacturers, distributors and importers, state health officials said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

The federal government begins conducting some workplace safety inspections for the State Labor Department next month as part of the recovery from budget cuts and layoffs under the administration of former Gov. Linda Lingle, state officials said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

Former U.S. Rep. Ed Case had the worst fundraising quarter of his U.S. Senate campaign, raising doubts about the strength of his organization with the Democratic primary against U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono just weeks away. Star-Advertiser.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, who is a hotly contested primary race for U.S. Senate against former Congressman Ed Case, (D-Hawaii/2002-2007), missed several votes in the last few weeks, so she could continue to fundraise and campaign for the seat left open by the retirement of U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

Colleen Hanabusa and Charles Djou ran in three separate elections — a special, primary and general election — for the 1st Congressional District just two years ago. Civil Beat.

U.S. Navy ships and planes operated on a biofuel blend off Hawaii during Rim of the Pacific war games Wednesday as part of a renewable-fuel push by Navy leaders — the biggest test of its kind and one that has become politicized and opposed by some in Congress because of its costs. Star-Advertiser.

As part of this year's RIMPAC exercises the US Navy is emphasizing its push to go green. KHON2.

Honolulu, Hilo, the Kahului-Wailuku area on Maui and Kapaa on Kauai posted declines in private-sector employment of between 1 percent and 4 percent, according to an analysis by Pacific Business News affiliate On Numbers, which used new U.S. Census Bureau data to analyze year-to-year employment trends for all metropolitan and micropolitan areas. Pacific Business News.

Kapalua, Molokai and Lanai airports are "absolutely all on the list" of places Hawaiian Airlines is considering to fly as it takes its first steps in the process of forming a subsidiary airline, a Hawaiian official said Tuesday. Maui News.

State roundup for July 19. Associated Press.

Oahu

Windward Oahu residents met Wednesday night to come up with a way to convince the city not to move forward with its plans to construct a Kaneohe to Kailua sewer tunnel. KHON2.

The Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation is expanding its video surveillance program at city parks thanks to an $11,000 gift by the Palehua Community Association. KITV4.

The Sierra Club will hold off on endorsing a candidate for Honolulu mayor until someone emerges who backs rail and fights urban sprawl, the Hawaii nonprofit's leaders said Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The race between state Senate candidates Pohai Ryan and Laura Thielen is nearly tied — at least in terms of fundraising. Civil Beat.

Former state Rep. John Medeiros died Friday morning in his sleep after battling Parkinson's disease and a heart condition, his wife said. He was 83. Star-Advertiser.

The first glimpse in more than a decade into former Hawaii Governor Ben Cayetano’s financial backers shows he can still count on some old friends for support. Civil Beat.

Mayor Peter Carlisle: Profile. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

A County Council committee on Wednesday had a sunny outlook for a nonbinding resolution asking the state Public Utilities Commission to make it easier for homeowners to hook up solar panels. West Hawaii Today.

Two seasoned politicians will face off next month to become the Democratic candidate for state senator of the newly created 4th District on Hawaii Island. Star-Advertiser.

A group of mostly small-scale Kona coffee farmers wants to alert consumers that a new state law could affect the quality of Hawaii’s premier specialty crop. Associated Press.

More than 30 years after a federal judge ordered the state to fix a broken fence on the upper slopes of Mauna Kea on the Big Island in order to protect endangered birds, officials will finally spend about $1 million to patch the holes. Civil Beat.

The mauka-makai beach access road to Kohanaiki Coastal Community Park will close for approximately six weeks for road improvements. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Memorial Medical Center will be the only non-Oahu hospital participating in a mock disaster exercise Friday as part of the U.S. Navy's ongoing Rim of the Pacific international exercises in Hawaii. Maui News.

A drier climate would jeopardize Maui's water supply and native ecosystems, said UH-Manoa geography professor Tom Giambelluca. Maui News.

State regulators have granted Lana'ians for Sensible Growth limited participation in the ongoing review of whether transferring Lanai's public utilities to Larry Ellison, who owns the vast majority of the island, is in the public interest. Maui News.

Kauai

Despite a drop in the number of Kaua‘i public schools that have met federal standards this year, local schools have shown an overall improvement, according to Bill Arakaki, Kaua‘i Complex superintendent at the state Department of Education. Garden Island.

With many summer programs coming to an end and the first day of school looming two weeks away, youngsters can take advantage of this window to plan their entries for the Lego Contest, which is part of the Home Economics Show at the Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau Fair, Aug. 23 through 26. Garden Island.

NASA tests moon exploration in Hawaii, tax collections up, Arizona sheriff says Obama birth certificate forged, Hawaii pushes for Obama library, students improve, still lag on Adequate Yearly Progress, $12.7M HUD funding for Native Hawaiian housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii lava field (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

NASA is conducting a nine-day field study in Hawaii to evaluate new techniques for exploring the moon. Associated Press.

NASA is conducting a nine-day field test starting Tuesday outside Hilo, Hawaii, to evaluate new exploration techniques for the surface of the moon. PR Newswire.

Hawaii public school students made big reading and math gains in all tested grades last school year, growth that U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan called an "encouraging sign" for continuing improvement. Star-Advertiser.

More than half of Hawaii schools have not met the so-called Adequate Yearly Progress goals required under the federal No Child Left Behind Act, the preliminary 2012 results released Tuesday show. Civil Beat.

The latest test scores under the federal mandate known as No Child Left Behind should provide a shot in the arm for Hawaii educators. KITV4.

Statewide test scores are in for public schools and they're being hailed as a year of unprecedented improvement. KHON2.

Investigators for an Arizona sheriff’s volunteer posse say President Barack Obama’s Hawaii birth certificate is definitely fraudulent. Associated Press.

Controversy in Chicago could help Hawaii land the next presidential library. Hawaii News Now.

State tax collections were up 14.9 percent through the end of the fiscal year in June, according to the state Department of Taxation, but the revenue growth dropped to 10.2 percent when the delay in income tax refunds from 2010 is factored out. Star-Advertiser.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle thinks Congress has lost its way. Star-Advertiser.

The economy and job creation were key priorities several U.S. Senate and House candidates listed during the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce moderated forum Monday evening. West Hawaii Today.

The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands will receive $12.7 million in federal funding to develop affordable housing for Native Hawaiians. Pacific Business News.

The renewed emphasis on Asia and the Pacific has heightened the importance of military engagement with old partners such as Singapore as the United States seeks to create new training and basing opportunities where it can. Star-Advertiser.

The state is out tens of millions of dollars in harbor work and barges for the failed Superferry. KITV4.

Oahu

With their positions on major issues already established in previous debates, the three main candidates for Hono­lulu mayor took turns Tuesday swiping at each others leadership style, abilities and accomplishments in office during a debate broadcast live. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s pro-rail business community is backing Kirk Caldwell over incumbent Peter Carlisle in the race for mayor, throwing more money toward his campaign than to either of the other candidates. Civil Beat.

In an effort to save the city government and Oahu residents time and money, Hono­lulu will soon accept and store construction plans electronically, Mayor Peter Carlisle announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Health is on the verge of taking an official position against the politically charged proposed merger of Honolulu's Fire and Emergency Services Departments, according to the DOH division chief. Civil Beat.

A group of three people has created the Honolulu Affordable Housing Partners and is in final negotiations to purchase all of the city’s affordable housing units. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

A Florida couple say they plan to file a claim against Hawaii Volcanoes National Park after receiving fines totaling $625 on a recent trip to the Big Island attraction. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian cuts neighbor island fares. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

State regulators on Monday granted Lana'ians for Sensible Growth limited participant status in the ongoing review of whether transferring Lanai's public utilities to the island's new owner, Larry Ellison, is in the public interest. Maui News.

The state Office of Planning says it believes that the California landowner developing two Kihei shopping malls "has failed to substantially comply with its representations" of the project now under construction. Maui News.

The Department of Water Supply has released an updated version of its Upcountry Water Meter Priority List. Maui Now.

Kauai

About a 120 people attended Tuesday’s forum for council candidates, and many more were able to hear it live on KQNG AM 570. Garden Island.

In the face of several supporters of a community center honoring one of the largest cultural and ethnic groups on the island, Kaua‘i County Council members leaned favorably to grant land for a Filipino community center. Garden Island.

Hawaii to get manini money for tsunami debris cleanup, congressional candidates race for cash, H-1 lanes to narrow, Kauai Foodbank short, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Keaukaha shoreline (C) 2012 All Hawaii News

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on Monday announced it will provide $250,000 in grants to five states affected by debris from last year's tsunami in Japan. Associated Press.

Pacific reef sharks will swim into oblivion without more regulation and effective enforcement, the latest science says. Civil Beat.

Democrats Mufi Hannemann and Tulsi Gabbard are not only leading in the polls, they also continue to raise far more money than their 2nd Congressional District opponents. Civil Beat.

The four top candidates for Hawaii’s two congressional seats in this year’s election are in financial dead heats as the campaigns turn for home in the primary election, Federal Election Commission filings show. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard took the fundraising lead in the latest reporting quarter in the race for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District seat. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono contends Hawaii voters want a U.S. senator who shares their values, who is tough enough for a fight but practical enough to collaborate. Star-Advertiser.

State lawmakers last week received a memo from the Hawaii State Ethics Commission asking them to review their disclosures and fill in some of the blanks. Civil Beat.

It's called an "open primary," yet voter options are limited. Civil Beat.

The former head of a state panel that reviews Hawaii's historic register says the list has become a way for well-connected homeowners to get hefty tax breaks. Associated Press.

State roundup for July 17. Associated Press.

Oahu

The city of Honolulu nwill bump up peak-hour service for TheBus on four Oahu routes at the start of the school year to try to accommodate an expected "pulse" of extra student riders when public school classes begin July 30. Star-Advertiser.

In an attempt to break the logjam on the H-1 through Makiki, workers will re-stripe parts of the freeway to create a fourth lane in each direction. Star-Advertiser.

Debate over the $5.2 billion Rail Transit Project has dominated the race for Honolulu Mayor.   But … as early voters go to the polls in about two weeks … the arguments for and against rail have not addressed how the candidates intend to deal with population growth. Hawaii Public Radio.

In the past six months, 15 candidates running for five seats on the nine-member Honolulu City Council have spent $291,534.05 on their campaigns. Civil Beat.

A group sued the city Monday in an attempt to block the sale of vacant city-owned parcels near Haleiwa Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

A long-delayed plan to build a commercial irradiator on Oahu for farmers to treat produce for mainland export is moving forward. Star-Advertiser.

Meals On Wheels cutting service Belt tightening means fewer meals for home-bound seniors. KITV4.

Hawaii

With control of the Hawaii County Council up for grabs, candidates have pulled in more than $250,000 in the first six months of this year, although much of that comes from public financing. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is hoping to gain a few “likes” by launching its first Facebook pages. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The state Office of Planning says it believes the California landowner developing two Kihei shopping malls "has failed to substantially comply with its representations" of the project now under construction. Maui News.

Six Kihei patrol officers are among community members hoping to make a difference in the lives of some Kihei youths, as they embark on a yearlong mentorship program with a group of 24 intermediate school students. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai officials said continued erosion along Kekaha Beach has forced the county to relocate the Kekaha lifeguard tower to the west end of MacArthur Park. KITV4.

Despite the efforts of several hundred volunteers Saturday, the Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank’s one-day summer food drive fell short of its goal. Garden Island.

The presenters often outnumbered community members but there were plenty of questions at the first two public safety meetings in Kilauea and Koloa. Garden Island.

Health Department lags on testing Hawaii beaches, teachers union mulls lawsuit, Maui mayor meets with Lanai owner Ellison, Navy sinks ship off Kauai, annual barge visits Molokai, candidates report campaign finance, taxpayer subsidies spike for Honolulu rail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beach (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Hawaii Department of Health didn't test dozens of beaches that it was supposed to in 2011 — including some of the state’s most popular. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard led all 2nd Congressional District candidates in fundraising in the second quarter of 2012, according to contribution reports filed with the Federal Election Commission. Star-Advertiser.

There's not a well-known Republican running for in the race for 2nd Congressional District, so Hawaii voters will likely be selecting a new U.S. representative in the Democratic primary on Aug. 11. Civil Beat.

For former Congressman and U.S. Senate candidate Ed Case, being a moderate is not only a political philosophy, it is about effective leadership. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Teachers Association President Wil Okabe told teachers last week that the union is exploring legal means to enforce the January contract agreement the state considers off the table, according to internal documents. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie recently signed bills to combat cyberbullying, to prohibit adults from soliciting minors to electronically transmit nude images of minors and to allow out-of-state records to be subpoenaed in criminal cases. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines, the state's oldest airline said Sunday it will offer nonstop flights between Honolulu and Auckland, New Zealand, three times a week beginning March 13. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell received $511,404 in campaign donations from January through June, nearly $400,000 less than fellow challenger Ben Cayetano, according to campaign figures released today. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu city taxpayer subsidies for public transportation in Honolulu will increase by hundreds of millions of dollars to 17 percent of overall city tax collections after the new 20-mile rail system gets rolling, according to the new financial plan for rail. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu elevated rail project is splitting Hawai`i’s environmental community, with only one group coming out in support of the project. Hawaii Public Radio.

An $8 million gym and multi purpose building continues to sit empty in West Oahu. KHON2.

Honolulu is seeking applicants for projects to preserve and protect forests, beaches, coastal areas. Associated Press.

Hawaii

Less than half of Hawaii County Mayor Mayor Billy Kenoi’s $388,249 in campaign contributions come from the county he oversees. West Hawaii Today.

Incumbent State Senator Gil Kahele raised more than 10 times the money that challenger Donald Ikeda did in the first six months of 2012, according to campaign spending reports released Thursday by the state Campaign Spending Commission. Tribune-Herald.

After being vetoed last week, two geothermal bills will get another chance Thursday as the Hawaii County Council votes on whether to override Mayor Billy Kenoi’s administrative dismissal. Tribune-Herald.

The former nursing director at Bay Clinic has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit, claiming she was fired because of her gender and marital status, and accusing the nonprofit health care organization of “defamation” and “negligent infliction of emotional distress.” Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui state Rep. George Fontaine last week lauded Gov. Neil Abercrombie for recently signing four cyber-crime bills into law. Maui News.

Maui County total business establishments decreased 2% from 4,422 establishments in 2005 to 4,332 in 2010. Maui Now.

The 2012 Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force will hold meetings on Maui and Molokai on concerns about the disproportionate number of Native Hawaiians who are in prison. Maui News.

Kauai

A live-fire exercise sank the former Navy ship Niagara Falls southwest of Kauai on Saturday, the Navy said. Star-Advertiser.

A Kaua‘i attorney was convicted of harassment Thursday after being accused of licking his client’s ear at his office last year. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a forum featuring the Kaua‘i County Council candidates on Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Kaua’i War Memorial Conventional Hall Exhibition Area. Garden Island.

Lanai

Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa got some glimpses this week about what Lanai’s new owner, Oracle CEO Larry Ellison, wants to do with the Pineapple Isle when he met with Ellison's representatives and people from Castle & Cooke in a closed-door meeting. Pacific Business News.


Molokai

Molokai barge day courtesy Sen. J. Kalani English

The normally calm demeanor of the Kalaupapa settlement was replaced with hustle and bustle on Saturday morning as residents chatted excitedly about what many have dubbed “Christmas in July.” It marked the once-a-year barge that hauls in essential supplies like building materials, fuel, vehicles and other goods from Oahu to the isolated settlement. Molokai Dispatch.

Gay marriage, abortion top Hawaii's 2nd Congressional debate; Honolulu requires protest permits; embattled Hawaii County Elections Office ready for the primary; geothermal, GASB bills nixed; Kauai smoking ban smolders, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

2nd Congressional debate, courtesy Hawaii News Now

Social issues like abortion and gay marriage came up early and often during the first widely televised debate in the 2nd Congressional District Democratic primary Thursday night. Civil Beat.

The four major candidates in the Democratic primary for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District exchanged barbs during a feisty 90-minute debate Thursday night that touched on issues from their views on same-sex marriage to their ranges of political experience. Star-Advertiser.

Four of the candidates in the Democratic party primary for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District squared off in a 90-minute debate on Hawaii News Now. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard, former Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann, legislative aide Esther Kia'aina  and Big Island lawyer Bob Marx say they have what it takes to represent rural Oahu and the neighboring islands. KITV4.

Lingle Tops Hirono in Fundraising; Poll Wars; TV: Dems Debate, Republicans Left Out. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has instituted a new policy for his appointees this election year: they have to take vacation or unpaid leave if they're running for office. Hawaii News Now.

The reform of Hawaii's charter school system got underway Thursday as Karen Street, a human resources executive, was chosen as chairwoman of the commission that will oversee the schools, and plans were announced to hire a national organization to help implement the new law. Star-Advertiser.

Experiences on the mainland, along with evaluations of Hawaii election procedures, suggest several types of legal and procedural changes that would be likely to bolster voter registration and election turnout, although studies suggest the overall impact may be modest at best. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will focus on building momentum in the recovery of the local tourism industry during its annual Hawaii Tourism Conference, which will be Aug. 23-24 at the Hawaii Convention Center. Pacific Business News.

Computer generated data is expected to grow by 50 times by 2020.   Storing and managing this information was covered during this year’s Asia-Pacific International Management Conference in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell received $511,404 in campaign donations from January through June, nearly $400,000 less than fellow challenger Ben Cayetano, according to campaign figures released today. Hawaii Reporter.

As many as six more University of Hawaii officials in different departments could find their roles in the botched Stevie Wonder fundraising concert under review following the suspensions of UH's athletic director and Stan Sheriff arena manager this week. Star-Advertiser.

People holding a protest or other "expressive activity" in a city park would be required to obtain a permit, under a bill approved Wednesday by the Honolulu City Council. The bill, supported by the American Civil Liberties Union Hawaii chapter, was prompted by a court order. Star-Advertiser.

Two Honolulu City Councilmen are calling on the Mayor to make sure money is found to restore bus service after recent cutbacks. KHON2.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Mayor Peter Carlisle are working together to decide on the future of the historic Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial. KITV4.

Hawaii

More Hawaii County voters are expected to vote by mail this election, but early walk-in voting will be limited to three locations, and three small precincts won’t have a polling place at all, under changes instituted this year by the county Elections Office. West Hawaii Today.

The person in charge of elections on the Big Island said today that the voting process is on track. Big Island Now.

A pair of bills relating to geothermal energy have died on Mayor Billy Kenoi’s desk, unless the County Council can engineer an override of the veto. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi vetoed a bill that would have required the county to make payments into a county retiree benefits account and denounced it as being “fiscally irresponsible.” Tribune-Herald.

The three candidates for County Prosecuting Attorney faced off last night at a political forum in Hilo. KPUA.

Maui

Several hundred Maui residents have signed a petition asking the county's liquor commission to again prohibit patrons from bringing their own wine into restaurants. Maui News.

Three months after Maui's liquor commissioners tossed a plan to shut down late-night entertainment in the Kihei Kalama Village, the department says it's seeing positive changes. Maui News.

Costco Wholesale on Maui opened a gas station this morning, selling regular unleaded gas at $3.99 and premium for $4.19 for a gallon. Maui Now.

Kauai

A bill that would allow outlaw tobacco products at county parks and designate the parks’ parking lots as smoking areas seemed poised to fly through second and final reading Wednesday at the Kaua‘i County Council meeting. Instead, the council decided to put more work into the bill. Garden Island.

After much controversy earlier this year, when Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. put Kaua‘i Police Department Chief Darryl Perry on leave, voters will not decide whether the mayor or the Police Commission has such powers over the police chief. Garden Island.

Lihu‘e Public Library will be closing for extensive renovation starting this fall. Garden Island.

Hawaii County bans aerial hunting, Honolulu rail scrutinized, debated, UH officials on leave for $200k Stevie Wonder fiasco, Hurricane Emilia strengthens, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mouflon sheep, courtesy photo

Shooting animals by helicopter on Hawaii Island, even by government agencies such as the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, is now illegal. Mayor Billy Kenoi on Wednesday signed into law a largely symbolic bill that prohibits “any person to engage in the eradication of any animal for any reason while being transported by helicopter, airplane, or any similar means.” Tribune-Herald.

Both Democrats U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former U.S. Rep. Ed Case, and former Republican Gov. Linda Lingle, have received the endorsement of the Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association in its respective primaries for the state's open U.S. Senate seat. Star-Advertiser.

Republican Senate candidate Linda Lingle on Wednesday released the results of an internal poll showing her ahead of Mazie Hirono and tied with Ed Case in projected November matchups. Civil Beat.

While Hawaii languishes at or near the bottom among the states in voter turnout, several other states have established enviable records of high voter participation. Civil Beat.

Hawaii consumers carried the nation's second-highest credit card debt in June despite the average balance falling 3 percent over the previous year, according to CreditKarma, a California-based credit scoring website. Star-Advertiser.

After downgrading Emilia to a Category Two hurricane, the National Hurricane Center says it has strengthened to a Category Three. Hawaii News Now.

A memo sent to Hawaii sheriffs ordering them to stand down, needs to be clarified. That's according to the interim director who didn't even see the memo before it was sent. KHON2.

State roundup for July 12. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano, campaigning for mayor on a platform to halt the city's $5.26 billion rail project and use the money to improve Honolulu's crumbling infrastructure, would be unlikely to accomplish any of that if he wins the office, his campaign rivals charged. Star-Advertiser.

Peter Carlisle and Ben Cayetano focused many of their attacks on Kirk Caldwell in the KITV-Civil Beat debate Wednesday night, offering a window in the strategies the candidates are implementing a month before the Aug. 11 primary. Civil Beat.

Pacific Resource Partnership is a leading pro-rail spender in this year’s election cycle just as it was in 2008 and 2010, but where the group’s money comes from is shrouded in secrecy. Hawaii Reporter.

Resolutions requesting an audit of all rail-related public relations contracts and seeking tighter controls on rail contract change orders won easy approval from the Honolulu City Council Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii has placed two longtime officials on indefinite leave and is seeking the help of an independent investigator and the FBI to get to the bottom of its ill-fated Stevie Wonder concert venture. Star-Advertiser.

Just a day after the embarrassing announcement that a University of Hawaii athletics fundraising concert featuring Stevie Wonder was canceled, the UH placed Athletics Director Jim Donovan on paid leave and began an investigation into the botched event. Hawaii News Now.

A debate raged during a community meeting Wednesday night, over the spread of deadly infectious diseases and plans for a bio-safety laboratory at Kalaeloa. KITV4.

The Honolulu City Council voted 7-2 on Wednesday to approve a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week ban, on commercial activity at Kailua Beach Park and at nearby Kalama Beach Park. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Petroleum Ltd. and AeroVironment have installed electric vehicle fast chargers at three Aloha gas stations on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

The state Department of Health Underground Storage Tank Section has issued a Notice of Violation against Aloha Petroleum Ltd., the registered owner and operator of Island Mini Mart, a fuel service station in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today.

A local tour company that led youth to Kealakekua Bay’s Kaawaloa shoreline did not have a permit to be in the area where large waves a week ago swept a 15-year-old New York boy into the ocean. West Hawaii Today.

As quickly as David Choe painted an eye-catching mural below Big Island Harley-Davidson on Palani Road, it was painted over and rendered back to its original form: a gray cement retaining wall. West Hawaii Today.

Everybody knows astronauts like Tang, but what about Spam musubi? Six men and women, culled from a field of 700 applicants, will help to answer that question and many more from their perch upon a Hawaii Island lava field next year as part of HI-SEAS, or Hawaii Space Exploration Analog and Simulation, a joint NASA study between the University of Hawaii and Cornell University that will simulate a mission to Mars. Tribune-Herald.

The slopes of Mauna Loa are often described as “Mars like” terrain. Soon a handful of people will spend 4 months there living as they would on Mars. It’s a collaborative effort including researchers from the University of Hawai`i and one surprisingly qualified O`ahu mom. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Maui landowners in agricultural districts could be in for a shorter permitting process to offer short-term rentals under a new state law. Maui News.

The San Francisco-based investment firm co-developing a planned wind farm on Molokai says that it is interested in buying Hana Ranch in rural East Maui. Maui News.

Deer watch, wait while management plan developed. Maui News.

Judge Kelsey Kawano on Wednesday dissolved a temporary restraining order that had kept Dallas-based RadCare from taking over exclusive radiology services at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui News.

State crews begin emergency repair work next week to restore damaged sections of the Hana Highway. Maui Now.

Kauai

The biennial exercise known as RIMPAC is hosted by the U.S. Pacific Fleet, with some ships of the 22 participating nations training with hull-mounted active sonar around Hawai‘i’s islands. Despite efforts to reduce deadly exposure of high-pressure sound waves to sea mammals, advocates say the measures fall short. Garden Island.

The memories of Kaua‘i’s Taylor Camp still ripple across the globe, even though the camp was dismantled some 35 years ago. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission on Tuesday granted a set of permits to McBryde Gardens in Lawa‘i, allowing the National Tropical Botanical Gardens to move along with a new philosophy of making its gardens more accessible and utilizing its vast collection as a tool to teach sustainability. Garden Island.

Abercrombie signs, vetoes bills, Cayetano raises almost $900k, Kauai could get Hunger Games sequel, Hawaii County elections officer reinstated, Native Hawaiian caretaker guilty of obstructing DLNR, RIMPAC heads out to sea, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie signs bills, courtesy photo

Gov. Neil Abercrombie vetoed 14 bills passed by the state Legislature last session, down from 17 vetoes last year. Tuesday was the deadline for the governor to issue vetoes. Star-Advertiser.

Of the 345 measures passed out of the 2012 Legislature, 329 are now law. Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed 323 measures into law and vetoed 14.  Six measures became law without the governor’s signature. Governor's Office.

List of Acts for the 2012 legislative session. Governor's Office.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie late Tuesday announced he vetoed 14 measures. Civil Beat.

Governor Neil Abercrombie today made his final decision on all 2012 Legislative bills. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed House Bill 2030 requiring motorists to move over a lane or at least slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Tuesday signed into law House Bill 1957, which brings Hawaii’s patient privacy protection laws in line with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act laws. Pacific Business News.

Aerial luminaries, also known as sky lanterns, are no longer legal to own, buy, sell or use under a bill signed into law by Gov. Neil Abercrombie Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

A bill seeking to do away with mandatory inspection and certification of Hawaii-grown coffee will pass into law after Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s announcement Tuesday that he had opted not to veto the measure. Tribune-Herald.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle made this speech on her views about the Jones Act at the Associated Builders and Contractors Member Appreciation Dinner on July 10, 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Pearl Harbor is being drained of nearly 40 ships as the at-sea portion of the big June 29-to-Aug. 3 Rim of the Pacific exercise gets under way around the Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii on Tuesday abruptly canceled an Aug. 18 Stevie Wonder concert to benefit its athletic department after Wonder’s agent told school officials the show was planned without the star’s knowledge. Star-Advertiser.

Time Warner Cable blamed "greedy broadcasters," while KITV, the Hawaii ABC-TV affiliate, complained of "Time Warner's exaggerated and distorted claims," as the two reached an impasse that left most Hawaii television viewers without KITV programming. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for July 11. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano has raised nearly $900,000 since announcing in January that he is running for mayor in a bid to stop the city's planned $5.27 billion rail transit project, his campaign said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu mayoral challenger Ben Cayetano is thrashing incumbent Mayor Peter Carlisle in campaign fundraising. Hawaii Reporter.

Bob Watada, well-respected former executive director of the Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission, flew in from Oregon to set the record straight about the illegal contributions Ben Cayetano received during his 1998 re-election campaign for governor. Civil Beat.

Under pressure from the City Council to justify the number of public relations jobs tied to the Honolulu rail project, positions dedicated to "public involvement" will shrink from 23 to 91⁄2 by the end of the year, cutting more than $2.8 million in spending. Star-Advertiser.

Two years after questions were first raised about how much money the city was devoting to public relations for the controversial rail project, officials canned more than half the PR staff and cut nearly $3 million in contracts. Civil Beat.

Leading the way with 66.9 percent voter turnout in 2010 was House District 18, which runs from Hahaione Valley through Kuliouou and Niu Valley, Aina Haina, Wailupe, and part of Kahala. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

Fired Elections Administrator Pat Nakamoto is getting her job back, following a union grievance and a decision from the county Human Resources Department. West Hawaii Today.

Portions of Kalanianaole Avenue in Hilo will be closed to traffic in about two months as Hawaii County starts a seven-month-long sewer rehabilitation project. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Crews are mopping up after a fire burned about 2 acres of dry brush at The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course on Monday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai Film Commissioner Art Umezu escorted a Los Angeles-based production team scouting locations around the island a couple of months ago. While they didn’t say what movie they were scouting, numerous reports say Kauai is the top choice for Catching Fire, the Hunger Games first sequel. Pacific Business News.

A jury found a Wailua man guilty Tuesday of stopping a DLNR construction dig for the Kaumuali‘i Comfort Station project near kupuna burials at Kaumuali‘i Park and Old Smith Landing in Wailua. Garden Island.

Following the first live capture of a mongoose by KISC trapper Pat Gmelin on May 23, a second mongoose, this time a juvenile, was captured on June 29 at the Young Brothers pier in Nawiliwili. Garden Island.

As the next school year rolls in, a new private school will be up and running at the Lawa‘i home of the former principal of Kahili Adventist School, thanks to permits granted by the Kaua‘i Planning Commission Tuesday. Garden Island.