Plantations put to use, cooling Waikiki, ed board debated, early kindergarten pau, political debates continue, more Hawaii news

Dirt is flying on fallow plantation lands for the first time in 15 years, as Mayor Billy Kenoi's administration digs out old roads and prepares to lay fencing for an innovative community project. West Hawaii Today.

Two years into the county's legal battle with Molokai Properties over who should manage utilities set up by the now-defunct Molokai Ranch, county officials estimate that the parties have spent well over $1 million in legal fees, which could go even higher if a settlement isn't reached before a planned October trial. Maui News.

Hotel owners in Waikiki are looking at the possibility of using cold sea water to air-condition their buildings in a move that could substantially cut electricity costs and help the tourism industry market the famed resort area as a green destination. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government has turned to a 130-year-old Hawaii sugar grower for help in powering the Navy and weaning the nation off a heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Associated Press.

For years, the Molokai branch of the Maui Invasive Species Committee, otherwise known as MoMISC, has battled stubborn invasive species with science and technology. Molokai Dispatch.

Parents, school officials, students, business leaders and even a current school board member used their Sunday morning to urge voters to replace an elected Board of Education with one appointed by Hawaii's governor. Star-Advertiser.

Students, parents, and community leaders of Hawaii's Children First gathered today to urge voters to pass a ballot initiative to get rid of electing members to the Board of Education. KHON2.

The state Department of Education continues its quest to obtain a federal "Race to the Top" school reform grant this week. Associated Press.

A new law will end junior kindergarten in public schools in 2013 but could be the catalyst for the creation of a state-funded universal preschool program. Star-Advertiser.

The fate of several Hawaii schools lies in the hands of Board of Education members. The Board will hear recommendations on Keanae Elementary, on Maui. Hawaii News Now.

Leaders of a couple of environmental watchdog groups said this week that they would keep an eye on the U.S. Navy's plans to conduct military readiness training and testing in Hawaiian waters as well as off the coast of Southern California. Maui News.

The dollars rolling into the two Democratic candidates for governor are big. Civil Beat.

If the statewide polls are right, it’s anybody’s guess who is going to represent the Democratic Party against the top Republican challenger in the Nov. 2 general election. Garden Island.

Former Honolulu Mayor and Democratic candidate for Hawai‘i governor Mufi Hannemann says he would start fixing the state’s economy on his first day in office. Garden Island.

The night Bob Jacobson lost his 6th District council seat to Guy Enriques, he had a ready explanation. Tribune-Herald.

Three of the four candidates for Honolulu mayor will debate before business leaders this week. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Transportation (DOT) is holding its second round of statewide public informational meetings to discuss and solicit comments on the fiscally constrained Draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) for Fiscal Years 2011-14 (+2).  Lahaina News.

A supervisor at Lihue Airport on Kauai is under investigation in an embezzlement case, the latest in a string of problems at the airport. Lihue Airport employees complain lax management at the facility has led to several embarrassing incidents there. KITV.

A year after city officials shutdown one of the entrances to China Walls, the gate is still locked. KITV.

Edward Dawe's home looks directly over Mililani Mauka Recreation Center 7.  The proposed site where Clearwire is hoping to install an 80-foot tall tree-like internet antenna tower, that would provide additional internet service to upper reaches of Mililani Mauka. KHON2.

Case buys into Maui Land & Pineapple, Senate to consider chief justice pick, Oahu fireworks ban advances, fish ban proposed, more news from all the islands

Legislation banning tropical fish collecting in Hawaii waters will be introduced in January by state Sen. Josh Green, who said he is planning to write and submit "a simple bill" on the controversial issue. West Hawaii Today.

A mysterious disease is killing striped and porcupine puffer fish. Molokai Dispatch.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee voted yesterday against recommending appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as Hawaii's next chief justice, leaving her with an uphill fight to win confirmation when the Senate considers her nomination today. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Leonard needs 12 out of 23 votes to become Hawaii's next chief justice. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu district judge's appointment to the Circuit Court bench was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday, even though the nominee was rated "unqualified" by the Hawaii State Bar Association. Star-Advertiser.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee has approved judicial nominations submitted by Gov. Linda Lingle and state Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald Moon. Associated Press.

The Hawaii County prosecutor's office agreed yesterday to dismiss a trespassing charge against a census worker who had been arrested after a Puna resident refused to participate in the survey. Star-Advertiser.

There are many reasons why people from all over the world are drawn to the offshore areas of the privately owned island of Ni‘ihau. Garden Island.

A final vote on an islandwide consumer fireworks ban will be taken by the City Council on Aug. 18, even with the fate of the bill uncertain. Star-Advertiser.

The two Democratic rivals for governor are continuing to spar over political ads they are airing as the likely Republican nominee touts assistance he's getting from GOP governors on the mainland. Associated Press.

The two Democratic rivals for governor yesterday sparred over their political ads as the likely Republican nominee touted the assistance he's getting from GOP governors on the mainland. Associated Press.

The leading Democratic candidates for governor faced off in a debate on Kaua'i Thursday night. KITV.


AOL co-founder Steve Case has significantly expanded his stake in Maui Land & Pineapple Co., buying additional stock that increases his ownership to 62.8 percent of the company. Maui News.
(photo by Robert Scoble)

Members of Hawaii's voyaging community are sailing around the state in honor of the late master navigator Mau Piailug. Associated Press.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa recently unveiled a brand new high-tech telescope for its “Tour of the Stars” experience. Lahaina News.

Expect some possible delays on the roads Friday. Huge wind turbines will be heading to their final destination in Kahuku for a new windfarm. Hawaii News Now.

The group tasked with coordinating next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in Hawaii has a new leader. Associated Press.

A Hansen's disease patient pleaded guilty Thursday afternoon to trying to smuggle crystal methamphetamine to the leprosy settlement at Kalaupapa, Molokai. KITV.

A former Honolulu Police Department recruit is suing the city, a high-ranking HPD commander and several other HPD officials. KHON2.

When students check into their dorms at the University of Hawaii at Manoa this fall they'll notice an upgrade. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii in Hilo is getting a big amount of money. The estate of the late Howard and Yoneko Droste, left the school $810,000. Hawaii News Now.

Maile David's name is on the Sept. 18 ballot for County Council District 6. But whether she gets to remain a candidate is up to a court. West Hawaii Today.

When one of the wettest spots in the world receives only around three-fourths the rainfall it normally receives, Kaua‘i like the rest of the state finds itself in drought conditions. Garden Island.

Brian Kajikawa, the controversial head of Hawaii County's Building Division, has been sent to another department, delighting at least one of his critics. Tribune-Herald.

New flood maps could raise insurance costs, good year for film industry, Senate panel decides on chief justice today, more news from all the islands

New flood insurance rate maps developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency could lead to dramatic cost increases for some property owners on Oahu and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Film Industry expects that 2010 will be a banner year with revenues generated from films and television shows approaching $300 million. KITV.

What would happen to Honolulu International Airport's famous "reef runway" if the ocean rose a few feet in the next century? Civil Beat.

The Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor is among the top 10 aviation attractions around the world. KHON2.

Hawaii billionaires Pierre and Pam Omidyar joined 40 of the world's richest people in a pledge to donate at least half of their fortunes as part of a philanthropists' pact announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser. (Photo by Joi)

Molokai’s only radio station will no longer air local news updates. Molokai Dispatch.

A stinging radio ad by former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann prompted U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to wade into the Hawaii Democratic gubernatorial contest yesterday with a defense of ex-U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie. Associated Press.

Hannemann: Labor King? Civil Beat.

Hawaii's beverage container deposit redemption rate for the fiscal year ending June 30 was 76 percent, down from a record high 79 percent in the previous fiscal year, the state Department of Health said yesterday. Associated Press.

“Ricycling” is not only good for the environment, it helps feed some of Kaua‘i’s hungry residents. Garden Island.

California's Proposition 8 ruling to affect Hawaii's fight over civil unions. KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle plans a "full-court press" for appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as Hawaii's next chief justice after hearing yesterday that the state Senate has serious concerns about her leadership and administrative abilities. Star-Advertiser.

Here at home, it's a big day for Hawaii's chief justice nominee Katherine Leonard. The Senate judiciary committee will vote whether to recommend Leonard to the full Senate, which meets Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Three hundred parasitic wasps were released in Haiku on Tuesday to prey on the invasive nettle caterpillar, whose stings can send some people to the hospital and whose appetite can do massive damage to plants and plant nurseries.Maui News.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares' campaign has cruised to the head of the pack in terms of fundraising, raising substantially more than any challenger's campaign and having the most money available as she approaches the primary election next month. Maui News.

The County of Maui mayor’s ballot has the Friendly Isle all abuzz now that Molokai’s own Patricia Hammond is in the running. Molokai Dispatch.

Incumbent legislators are winning the early campaign fundraising races, mostly with money raised outside their districts. Tribune-Herald.

Don't expect big changes now that Kona Brewing Co. is owned by Craft Brewers Alliance, President Mattson Davis says. West Hawaii Today.

Restaurants across the state are being warned that "fake" health inspectors seeking sensitive information about employers and employees have been reported on Maui and Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Public money could be used to fix private roads under a measure a Hawaii County Council committee narrowly passed Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Scholars, environmentalists and government officials are due to discuss issues like protecting coral reefs and controlling invasive species at the Hawaii Conservation Conference this week. Associated Press.

A Maui County Council committee voted 7-2 Tuesday to recommend approval of a compromise bill aimed at having condominium owners pay correct property taxes on their units. Maui News.

Wailuku attorney Blaine J. Kobayashi has been appointed to serve as a District Court judge in the 2nd Circuit. Maui News.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has obligated $388,941 for improvement projects and equipment purchases at the National Cemetary of the Pacific in Honolulu. KHON2.

The Department of Education cites budget cuts, deteriorating facilities and decline in attendance as valid reasons to close Maunaloa Elementary School. KITV.

Strong mayor to remain for Kauai, Maui police chief steps down after 32 years, Hawaii County rejects raising taxes for poor, disabled vets, Senate panel vote on Supreme Court pick coming Thursday, more

Hawaii's economic recovery is likely to remain on shaky ground. KHON2.

Hawaii's economic forecasters are estimating that personal income will grow more this year than previously predicted. Associated Press.

How to Revitalize Hawaii’s Economy. Dozens of ideas to get the Islands back on track. Hawaii Business magazine.

The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of the heroic service and sacrifices of Japanese-American servicemen during World War II. Associated Press.

The Senate Judiciary Committee heard more than four hours of testimony Monday on whether Katherine Leonard should become Hawaii's next Supreme Court Chief Justice-- the first woman to do so. KITV.

After several hours of hearings, the Senate Judiciary Committee chairman expressed concerns yesterday about whether appeals Judge Katherine Leonard possesses the leadership skills to be Hawaii's next chief justice. Star-Advertiser.

Katherine Leonard’s nomination as chief justice of the Hawai‘i Supreme Court was lauded by a stream of supporters on Tuesday but derided by a few who contended she lacks the administrative experience to lead the state’s judicial system. Associated Press.

Katherine Leonard defended her qual- ifications to serve as chief justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court before the state Senate Judiciary Committee today. KHON2.

One wonders what the conversation was like around the Katherine Leonard-Ian Sandison dining room table Tuesday night in the aftermath of her long state Senate confirmation hearing at the Capitol. Civil Beat.

A few observations about what the latest financial disclosure reports tell us about the political horse races. Civil Beat.

More than a half-million dollars have been raised by candidates running for three seats on the Honolulu City Council, financial reports show. Civil Beat.

Councilman and mayoral candidate Rod Tam, under investigation for how he spent city and campaign money on meals, drastically reduced the amount of campaign funds he’s spent on food so far this year, according to his campaign spending report filed Monday. KITV.

Kaua‘i’s strong mayoral form of government won’t be changing this election. Garden Island.

The city has begun negotiations to cancel a contract with the company that has failed to ship municipal trash to the mainland, leaving thousands of tons of garbage piling up at its facility in West Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

A woman who pleaded guilty to stealing thousands of dollars in monthly parking fees when she was a manager for the vendors of two downtown city parking garages will not go to prison. Star-Advertiser.

When masked-teenagers attempted to rob an internet gaming center in Kaneohe last Wednesday, gamers fought back. KHON2.

A new service co-sponsored by the city allows Oahu residents to receive emergency disaster warnings and alerts via text messaging or e-mail. Star-Advertiser.

An administration proposal to raise taxes on disabled veterans and poor property owners was roundly criticized Monday by an election year County Council before Finance Director Nancy Crawford bowed to the inevitable and withdrew it. West Hawaii Today.

Although Hawaii County Council members approved Mayor Billy Kenoi's $23 million tax hike in June, they're now unwilling to grant a second property tax increase for 1 percent of that amount. Tribune-Herald.

MPD’s Hirata steps down after 32 years. Maui News.

A county-commissioned study of the downhill bicycle industry received rave reviews during a Maui County Council committee meeting Monday, but no one was ready to formally adopt recommendations addressing safety on state and county roadways. Maui News.

I am a student of `olelo Hawaii with Kumu Manuwai Peters. With the help of Senator J. Kalani English and his wonderful staff, I recently presented Kumu Peters with a Hawaiian Senate Proclamation for Manuwai's contribution and perpetuation of the Hawaiian culture and language. Molokai Dispatch.

This past week, it was reported that Mayor Hannemann is seeking union support with an appeal based on his local roots. According to a Star-Advertiser report: Honolulu Weekly.

Abercrombie lagging in money as gubernatorial race enters home stretch, Senate panel tackles Supreme Court nominee amid negative reviews from Bar, faulty economic forecasts hurt state's bottom line, mayor's boondoggle book cost $108k, sells for $3, more news

State Pays a Price for Faulty Economic Forecasts Civil Beat.

Mufi Hannemann has more than four times as much money as his rival Neil Abercrombie seven weeks before the Sept. 18 Democratic primary for Hawaii governor. Associated Press.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann maintained his edge in campaign fundraising over former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie during the past six months and has substantially more campaign money available for the drive toward the Democratic primary for governor in September. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann has been collecting money to run for Hawaii governor for more than a year even though he officially filed to run only last month. KITV.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann is raising more money than rivals James "Duke" Aiona and Neil Abercrombie in his run for Hawaii governor. KHON2.

A clear leader has emerged in the fundraising race for the governor's office. Civil Beat.

Residents seemed optimistic Sunday that Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie will create an "agricultural renaissance" in Hawaii, as well as fulfill his promise of making decisions based on the public's priorities and values. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii State Bar Association's board of directors' rating of appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as "unqualified" to be Hawaii's next chief justice drew strong criticism last night from Gov. Linda Lingle. Star-Advertiser.

The board of directors of the Hawaii State Bar Association has determined that Katherine Leonard is not qualified to lead the Hawaii Supreme Court. Civil Beat.

The governor's nominee to head the State Supreme Court, Appeals Judge Katherine Leonard, received a rating of "unqualified" from the Hawaii State Bar Association Monday, something her supporters called “outrageous” and “unfair.” KITV.

The Hawaii State Bar Association has come out against Gov. Linda Lingle's nomination of Katherine Leonard to be chief justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court. Associated Press.

There's high drama in Hawaii's legal community. Hawaii News Now.

Kirk Caldwell led all mayoral candidates in fundraising for the first six months of 2010 and heads into the final 48 days of the campaign with $295,000 left to spend. Star-Advertiser.

Acting Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is way out front when it comes to campaign fundraising, according to campaign spending reports released on Monday. KITV.

Critics called it a boondoggle. In 2004, city taxpayers paid $108,000 to print 5,000 copies of Mayor Jeremy Harris' book, "Renaissance of Honolulu." KITV.

Another flight is being added from the West Coast to bring more visitors to Hawaii. KHON2.

The state will receive $6.2 million to build an aircraft rescue and fire fighting building at Lanai Airport. Associated Press.

Public school students and teachers were back in the classrooms today. After missing 17 school days to furloughs last year, there was plenty of optimism and excitement in the year ahead. KHON2.

Classes started for hundreds of students in Kaua‘i public schools on Monday. Garden Island.

Over the past few weeks, many Molokai residents have received phone calls asking for their mana`o on about some hot-button issues around here – La`au Point, Molokai Ranch and windmills. Molokai Dispatch.

When it comes to graffiti, city signs are like sitting ducks - easy prey - with no protection. KHON2.

Mabel Silva has had enough. Her home on Kuamo‘o Road in Wailua Homesteads sits next to state Department of Land and Natural Resources property where a path leads down toward Wailua River. Garden Island.

A five-year effort to implement a community-based, long-range vision for downtown Hilo will be up for discussion by Hawaii County lawmakers today in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Monday pundits: Leonard a shoo-in for Supreme Court, Democrat majority safe in state Legislature, Hanauma Bay needs work, classrooms fill with the unemployed, more Hawaii news

More than one million visitors from around the world enjoy Hanauma Bay each year, but some complain the educational facilities there are not up to par. KHON2.

A new Kaua‘i nonprofit is working to spread awareness about the ongoing struggle marine mammals face in Hawaiian waters. Garden Island.

Blue ‘Aina making a difference, one reef at a time. Lahaina News.

Democrats expect to hold overwhelming majorities in the state House and Senate in the November elections but could drop a handful of seats if Republicans capitalize on voter angst over the economy and civil unions. Star-Advertiser.

Here is the Star-Advertiser's first look at several potentially competitive state House and Senate campaigns, based on information from political strategists and party insiders. Star-Advertiser.

The betting in legal and political circles around town is that Katherine Leonard will be Hawaii's next supreme court chief justice. Civil Beat.

While Hawaii Island's slumping economy is bad for most everyone, it's a boon for Hawaii Community College, where administrators are bracing for record enrollment. Tribune-Herald.

When students head back to school today, their teachers and principals will have a new tool to help them succeed. Civil Beat.

Furlough Fridays behind them, more than 171,000 public school students head back to school this week to face new challenges as No Child Left Behind proficiency goals rise, the race kicks off to keep more schools from facing federal sanctions and teachers begin major curriculum shifts to follow national standards. Star-Advertiser.

With nearly 1,000 students due on campus Monday, Kahului Elementary teachers and staff were scrambling into makeshift classrooms last week to open the 2010-11 school year. Maui News.

There were traffic jams at the Salt Lake Target today because of many families were doing last minute school supply shopping. KHON2.

The state Board of Education has extended the deadline for the completion of a survey that is part of the panel's search for a new state schools superintendent. KITV.

When school starts next week, Kaunakakai Elementary teacher David Gonzales will have a What I Did on My Summer Vacation story to rival that of any of his fifth grade students. Molokai Dispatch.

Gov. Linda Lingle made a special trip to Maui on Saturday to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Maui Family YMCA and give a push to the organization's efforts to raise funds for a new gym. Maui News.

Plans to dispose of properties the U.S. Navy doesn't need and development projects are putting the future of the Barbers Point Riding Club in doubt. Associated Press.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approved a interim rate increase for Maui Electric Company (MECO) last week that went into effect Sunday. Molokai Dispatch.

Renewing your motor vehicle registration just got easier. The County of Hawai'i is now offering an online motor vehicle registration renewal service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. KHON2.

Donald Trump's sons are vacationing in Hawaii, to experience their own Waikiki investment, the Trump International Hotel. Hawaii News Now.

The "Mufi express" rolled into Hilo on Saturday night in a rocking event that was part concert, part political rally and part steak fry dinner fundraiser. Tribune-Herald.

The goals at Cellana, an algae-to-oil plant in the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii, are long-term. West Hawaii Today.

A county-commissioned study of the downhill bicycle industry will be reviewed Monday by the Maui County Council's Infrastructure Management Committee. Maui News.

Honolulu has received $55 million in federal funds for preliminary engineering and final design of the rail transit project. Filipino Chronicle.

Gubernatorial candidates spar at Waikiki forum, RIMPAC expanding, environmental laws weakening, A&B revenues strengthening, more news from all of the Hawaiian Islands

As the biennial Rim of the Pacific exercise wraps up this weekend, the U.S. Navy is already preparing for expanded exercises in the future. West Hawaii Today.

The state is proposing changes to the current environmental assessment law that could prevent the public from having a voice in future projects, including ones involving invasive species control and eradication. KHON2.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, in one of his sharpest critiques of his opponent in the Democratic primary for governor, described former Mayor Mufi Hannemann last night as a candidate of the status quo. Star-Advertiser.

For the first time since both officially entered the race for governor, Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann shared the same stage at a candidates' forum. KHON2.

Democratic rivals Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann laid out their platforms for economic development and tourism at a forum sponsored by the Waikiki Neighborhood Board. Hawaii News Now.

An analysis of state House and Senate races suggests Hawaii's Republicans will remain in the wilderness following the 2010 elections. But some contests against Democrat opponents will be competitive, as will several Democratic primaries. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii County Council chairman has received nearly $7,000 in taxpayers' money to spend on a re-election campaign he cannot lose. Tribune-Herald.

A top state Department of Transportation official asked residents Wednesday to support the agency's proposed six-year, $4 billion highways modernization plan, aimed to target backlogged road projects. West Hawaii Today.

A federal judge's order has delayed shipment of Oahu's municipal trash to a landfill in Washington state for at least a month. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Education is laying off about 40 clerical staff workers as part of an effort to save $142 million in the coming school year. Hawaii News Now.

Today and Friday public school teachers will be on their first two furlough days of the 2010-11 school year, the teachers union said. Maui News.

Hawaii leaders are planning to turn next year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference into a tourism marketing opportunity, showcasing the islands' beauty and its ability to host businesses. Associated Press.

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) will be a gathering of world leaders in Honolulu next year. It will be one of Hawaii's most important conventions ever held. A new committee has been created to help with the organizational preparations. Hawaii News Now.

Plans are underway to showcase Hawaii to the world during next year's APEC meeting in Honolulu. KHON2.

A jump in methamphetamine-related arrests on Oahu and a significant increase in positive results in workplace drug tests statewide suggest a surge in meth use -- even by people trying to find jobs in Hawaii's struggling economy. Star-Advertiser.

Two more candidates on Thursday entered the race for Honolulu mayor. KITV.

Councilman Donovan Dela Cruz on Thursday announced he is dropping out of the race for Honolulu mayor to run for the state Senate instead. KITV.

The County Council approved Wednesday a controversial bill that allows owners of transient vacation rentals on agricultural lands to apply for non-conforming use permits as long as their operations meet certain criteria. Garden Island.

Efforts to change how Maui County council members are elected – replacing at-large elections with nine single-member districts -- stalled this month as council members opted to delay a decision until next year. Molokai Dispatch.

Evildoers beware; 40 electronic eyes are being installed in downtown Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Pahoa and at Akaka Falls State Park. Tribune-Herald.

Maui County welcomed 1,068,804 visitors in the first six months of 2010. Maui News.

Alexander & Baldwin Inc. is reporting net income for the second quarter of $28.9 million, compared to $12.6 million in the second quarter of 2009. Associated Press.

For a limited time, SOS Metals Recycling is offering free vehicle recycling. Lahaina News.

Collectively, they tallied more than 146 years with the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, long enough to outlast the newspaper that chronicled Hawaii history for 128 years. Star-Advertiser.

Gays filing lawsuit over civil unions, Big Island courthouses could close, Molokai newspaper opposes developer, Hawaii County targets vets, poor, for tax hikes, Honolulu councilman under criminal investigation wants to be mayor, more Hawaii news

Six gay couples in Hawaii are filing a lawsuit Thursday asking for the same rights as married couples, three weeks after Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a same-sex civil unions measure. Associated Press.

First the veto, now a lawsuit. Two legal rights groups want the issue of same-sex marriage to be decided not by a public vote, but by a judge. Hawaii News Now.

Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Hawaii Foundation today said they will sue Gov. Linda Lingle over her July 6 veto of House Bill 444, which would have allowed Hawaii civil unions. Civil Beat.

Having been together since 2005, Sean Smith and Kale Taylor are like many committed couples -- they want to make things official. Star-Advertiser.

The Judiciary may shut down three of its part-time satellite courthouses on the Big Island temporarily because of a lack of sheriffs to provide security. Star-Advertiser.

Double-digit increases in arrivals and spending last month have made summer hotter for Hawaii tourism, though it still lacks the sizzle it had a few years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Economists hope the worst is over for Hawaii's housing slowdown. KHON2.

The last of Hawaii tax refunds are being mailed this week after they had been delayed because of state government budget shortages. Associated Press.

Councilman Rod Tam -- who's under criminal investigation for using city funds on meals for friends and family -- filed his nomination papers to run for Honolulu Mayor Wednesday. KITV.

The state dedicated a new $2.5 million dock at Keehi Small Boat Harbor Wednesday. KHON2.

The Governor says she's in no rush to sign off on the city's rail project. Wednesday, the city awarded a $5.5 million contract for the design of the West Loch, Waipahu and Leeward Community College stations along Farrington Highway. Hawaii News Now.

Mililani residents joined forces at a neighborhood board meeting Wednesday night, to oppose an affordable housing project in their community. KITV.

The House committees on Housing and Human Services’ joint informational briefing, held July 15, explored solutions–some more controversial than others–to the issue of chronic homelessness in the state. Honolulu Weekly.

Hawaii County is looking to scoop up an additional $270,000 in property taxes by targeting 6,000 disabled veterans and poor property owners who don't currently pay the minimum $100 tax. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County is receiving $115 million in federal economic stimulus dollars, but you wouldn't know it by the 1,150 jobs that various industries shed on the Big Island so far this year. Tribune-Herald.

Wailuku resident Ken Kekona told officials how his teenage granddaughter nearly died in a crosswalk, and Kula resident Harriet Sibonga and other senior citizens pointed out dangerous places for pedestrians and motorists on Maui. Maui News.

Lava is now entering the ocean in two locations in Kalapana, and a third flow may reach the ocean soon. Star-Advertiser.

This past Saturday night, July 25, I stood alongside a small handful of neighbors and photographers watching Madame Pele’s molten lava consume a beautiful little home, custom-built by my neighbor Gary, complete with beautiful landscaping - tropical flowers, bananas, a little gazebo overlooking the lava fields, ancient ironwood and mango trees - all burning, falling all over the former end of Highway 137 in Kalapana. Big Island Weekly.
The names of the characters may be the same and the backdrop is still Hawaii, but that's where the similarities end between the old and new "Hawaii Five-0," the re invented CBS series that should leave audiences breathless for more. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu Star Advertiser is saying good-bye to three longtime employees. KHON2.

Although the county received $1.21 million almost two years ago to retrofit lights at four county parks — Isenberg Park, Vidinha Football Stadium, Hanapepe Stadium and Peter Rayno Park in Hanama‘ulu — the project has yet to commence, according to the County Attorney’s Office. Garden Island.

Stop Molokai Ranch Windmills Petition. Molokai Dispatch.

PUC: Smart grid dumb idea, cable repair could take weeks, WWII munitions no danger yet, lawyers speak out on chief justice pick, more

Hawaii regulators have rejected plans for a broad expansion of smart grid electric technology that would have been paid for by residents and bus- inesses. Asso- ciated Press.

When it comes to repairing a severed fiber-optic cable 3,000 feet under the sea, it won't be as simple as calling the cable guy. Star-Advertiser.

Internet, cable television and telephone service began returning to normal Tuesday afternoon for thousands of Oceanic Time Warner Cable customers after a break in an undersea fiber-optic cable disrupted service about 12 hours earlier. Maui News.

A rare break in an undersea fiber-optic cable Tuesday morning, left around 400,000 people without Internet, phone and TV service, for 12 hours in some cases. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu resident Ian Kurihara discovered early Tuesday morning he wasn't able to go online. KITV.

A wind farm on Oahu's North Shore is receiving a big boost in federal funding. KHON2.

Chemical weapons dumped off Pearl Harbor after World War II pose no threat to humans for now but are "clearly deteriorating" and should continue to be monitored, the lead scientist on the University of Hawaii project said Tuesday. Associated Press.

They're safe for now. There's no threat to humans or the ocean so far. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii Women Lawyers will be expressing their strong support of Gov. Linda Lingle's appoint- ment of appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as the next chief justice, a spokeswoman for the group said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

In a letter to the Hawaii Bar Association, attorney Eric Seitz calls Katherine Leonard "ill equipped and unqualified" to be Hawaii's next Chief Justice. Hawaii News Now.

After failing at its first bid for federal Race to the Top funds, Hawaii has placed among 19 finalists with its second application for one of the coveted education grants. Civil Beat.

A West Hawaii ranch owner says a local business owner who bought part of Hokukano Ranch is cutting down old-growth sandalwood in the upper reaches of the property. West Hawaii Today.

Recreational off-road vehicles have damaged much of the terrain at Kaena Point. KHON2.

A city contractor working on a 42-inch main that broke late last week in Pearl City accidentally severed the 30-inch backup force main near the 14th hole of the Ted Makalena Golf Course, causing a spill of about 108,000 gallons of sewage yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Officials posted signs warning of a sewage spill are being posted along the Pearl Harbor bike path and at Middle Loch. KITV.

Hawaii County property taxes are leaving the state this year. But don't worry, say county administrators, the money will come back. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's "Sunshine Law" is hampering the County Council and should be overturned, says North Kona Councilman Kelly Greenwell. Tribune-Herald.

A forum on the topic of “In Search of Real Security for Kaua‘i” will include remarks by Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, D-2nd District. Garden Island.

Local divers will be competing in a tournament targeting invasive fish. The "Westside Roi Reckoning" takes place Saturday off Kahe Point. Hawaii News Now.

Internet outage brings state to a halt, Hawaii schools racing to the top, Hannemann wants Superferry back, more news from around the state

About 400,000 Oceanic Time Warner Cable customers were without Internet, phone and television service after a break in an undersea fiber-optic cable early this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is one of 18 states and the District of Columbia named finalists Tuesday in the second round of the federal "Race to the Top" school reform grant competition, giving them a chance to receive a share of $3 billion. Star-Advertiser.

As they prepared to head back to work Tuesday, public school teachers said they were excited about the new school year, especially since furlough days have been eliminated. Maui News.

Hawaii's Democratic candidates for governor proposed competing economic plans Monday, with Mufi Hannemann's ideas focused on construction and Neil Abercrombie's pitch centered on energy and agricultural sustainability. Associated Press.

Mufi Hannemann said Monday if he is elected governor, he will push to get the Hawaii Superferry back in island waters. KITV.


What do the websites of the three leading Hawaii governor candidates tell us? Civil Beat.

Honolulu lawyer Eric Seitz wrote to the Hawaii State Bar Association yesterday "strongly" opposing Gov. Linda Lingle's appointment of appeals Judge Katherine Leonard as the next chief justice. Star-Advertiser.

A consortium of in-state investors has purchased Hilo Hawaiian Hotel for $17.3 million. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County property taxes are leaving the state this year. But don't worry, say county administrators, the money will come back. West Hawaii Today.

A West Hawaii ranch owner says a local business owner who bought part of Hokukano Ranch is cutting down old-growth sandalwood in the upper reaches of the property. West Hawaii Today.

Kaua‘i cannot continue on its current path of unsustainability, Ken Stokes said Saturday at the Wailua-Kapa‘a Neighborhood Association meeting. Garden Island.

Volcano consumes Kalapana home, Maui beach widening suspended, gubernatorial candidates mix it up, drought worsens, Heftel Post Office nixed

Lava from Kilauea showed off its unstoppable power of beauty and destruction on Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

An innovative and privately funded beach replenishment project on Stable Road has been suspended early. Maui News.

Unlike open beaches, pocket beaches tend not to wax and wane with the seasons. Building groins - walls extending perpendicularly from the shore into the water - is a way of creating an artificial cove with a pocket beach. Maui News.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie is sending the message to gay activists that they could have to wait four years or longer for civil unions if he is not elected governor. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona leans forward as if he wants to share a secret. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann opened his West Hawaii campaign headquarters Saturday in Kailua-Kona where he committed himself to improving Hawaii's education and economy while reminding area residents of his Big Island connection. West Hawaii Today

Gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie this week announced he has accepted invitations from media outlets offering a series of live debates leading up to the Sept. 18 primary election. Garden Island.

A proposal to rename Makiki Post Office after the late Democratic U.S. Rep. Cecil Heftel has stalled because Heftel's widow objected to the bill's author: U.S. Rep. Charles Djou, a Republican. Star-Advertiser.

Every morning, Tony Williams wakes to the sound of waves crashing on Hawaii's famed Waikiki beaches and has a spectacular view of the Pacific. But he's not paying a cent for his priceless vista. Associated Press.

Hawaii taxpayers are on the hook for billions of dollars in construction projects over the next few decades, ranging from sewer upgrades to undersea power cables. Star-Advertiser.

A new attraction at the Waikiki Aquarium may be small but it's hoping to make a huge impact.KHON2.

Michelle Galimba has been moving her livestock across her 10,000-acre Kuahiwi Ranch to higher elevation in Kau on the Big Island in hopes of finding better pastures during a drought that is causing her business and others hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses. Star-Advertiser.

The University of Hawaii  may turn to a surprising source as it deals with a yawning budget shortfall brought on by a poor economy and lower legislative outlays: Mainland and foreign students who can provide a boost to tuition revenue. Civil Beat.

The Kaua‘i County Council Planning Committee, after several deferrals, on Wednesday approved a controversial bill that would allow vacation rental owners to apply for non-conforming use permits. Garden Island.

It's been two and a half years since Dawn K. Gambsky's life ended and she was buried in a shallow grave in her own backyard. Tribune-Herald.

Fewer immigration services will be available starting Monday while Honolulu's U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office moves to a new location. Associated Press.

Even in the face of furloughs, two Molokai schools – Maunaloa and Kilohana Elementary – met adequate yearly progress (AYP) benchmarks in math and reading scores this year. Kaunakakai Elementary landed on the cusp, missing its goal by only 1 percent. Molokai Dispatch.

Lingle appoints first woman chief justice, hoary bat stops roadwork, Honolulu sets mayoral election, Republicans get a mulligan, more Hawaii news

Gov. Linda Lingle appointed appeals Judge Katherine Leonard yesterday to become the state's fifth chief justice and the first woman to serve as head of the Hawaii Judiciary. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Linda Lingle has announced the nomination of Judge Katherine Leonard to be Hawaii's next chief justice of the Hawaii Supreme Court. If approved by the state senate, Leonard would become Hawaii's first female chief justice. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Linda Lingle has nominated Intermediate Court of Appeals Judge Katherine Leonard to be the next chief justice of the Hawaii state Supreme Court. Associated Press.

Text of Lingle's speech.

About a thousand members and supporters of the UNITE HERE Local 5 hotel workers union showed up in Waikiki Thursday to protest against the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Hotel, with more than 80 of them arrested after they blocked Waikiki traffic. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's two U.S. House members on Thursday split their votes on a bill to restore jobless benefits, an issue that may resonate with unemployed workers who go to the polls in November. Associated Press.

The state labor department expects to process $10,000 retroactive claims, now that President Obama has signed off on an extension of unemployment benefits. KHON2.

Honolulu voters have just less than two months to decide who should serve the final two years of Mufi Hannemann's term as mayor. Star-Advertiser.

Looking back five decades to statehood, Honolulu mayors have marked many of the same political milestones en route to Honolulu Hale. Civil Beat.

The special election in May to fill Hawaii's 1st Congressional District seat vacated by former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie cost taxpayers $670,000, state elections officials confirmed on Thursday. KITV.

Republicans, taking advantage of a state law that gives political parties extra time to find replacements for candidates who have withdrawn, have found a challenger to state Rep. Hermina Morita on Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

State Rep. Mina Morita said even her Republican friends are upset about the 11th-hour competition Morita got in her bid for re-election to the district that runs from Wailua Houselots to Ha‘ena. Garden Island.

It's a sign of the season. Politicians and political wannabe's signs and banners jockey for space on fences and walls. Hawaii News Now.

Perhaps sensing voter discontent, political challengers have cropped up right and left this election year to try to unseat Maui County incumbents in the state Legislature. Maui News.

Honolulu Councilman Rod Tam Thursday spoke for the first time publicly about being the subject of a criminal investigation. KITV.

In Kahana Valley State Park, fresh taro and sweet potato sprout from a garden adjacent to a road made from dirt and small chunks of cement. Cinder blocks mark grave sites of kupuna. Some trees have been chopped down or burned, their rotten insides exposed. Star-Advertiser.

Kilauea Volcano continues to put on a show that's delighting hundreds of visitors. KHON2.

West Hawaii residents are breathing easier these days, thanks to reduced sulfur dioxide emissions from Kilauea's east rift eruptive vents and weather conditions controlling the dispersal, said Tamar Elias, gas geochemist at U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. West Hawaii Today.

Economist Paul Brewbaker of TZ Economics told a meeting of the Realtors Association of Maui this past Friday that the great recession is over and the economic expansion has begun. Lahaina News.

Nearly 75 percent of the grading for Phase 1 of Ane Keohokalole Highway, known as the midlevel road, has been completed since its March groundbreaking, but work has been stopped until Aug. 15 because of the Hawaiian hoary bat, said Alex Leonard, project manager of Honolulu-based Nan Inc. West Hawaii Today.

The driving time between downtown Hilo and Kaumana will be shortened under a proposal from Mayor Billy Kenoi's administration to boost the speed limit on the Puainako Street extension. Tribune-Herald.

County Council members Wednesday approved a resolution urging the state Board of Education to reconsider its plan to consolidate three North Kohala schools into one K-12 school. West Hawaii Today.

Maui Mayor Charmaine Tavares is demanding an apology from former Mayor Alan Arakawa over his comments during his radio show. Maui News.

After seven months with no metal recycler on Molokai to dispose of junk cars and appliances, the County of Maui has secured a new contractor to run the island’s facility. Molokai Dispatch.

It’s not often that the object of a spearfishing contest is to get rid of introduced, invasive species. Garden Island.

A lawmaker in American Samoa has filed a lawsuit to stop the U.S. territory from spending money on Samoan Heritage Week in Hawaii without legislative approval. Associated Press.

Djou is 'endangered,' candidates talk tech, gubernatorial debates set, hopefuls crowd races, Maui prepares for plastic bag ban, more Hawaii news

Four weeks into Summer and the heat is on.... KHON2.

The three major gubernatorial candidates, seeking to woo an increasingly visible sector of Hawaii's economy, yesterday promised to foster partnerships with the high-tech industry and improve the state's information systems. Associated Press.

Mufi Hannemann, Neil Abercrombie and James "Duke" Aiona traveled to the Plaza Club — "the heart of Honolulu's Wall Street" — on the top floors of Pioneer Plaza Wednesday to share their thoughts on growing Hawaii's high-tech industry. Civil Beat.

Democratic gubernatorial candidates Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann will square off in front of the media and public on Aug. 11, just weeks prior to Hawai‘i’s 2010 primary election. Garden Island.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie has accepted invitations to four television debates and is accusing his rival of attaching conditions that make one of the events more difficult to hold. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Charles Djou has been placed on a list of nine Republican incumbents who are considered endangered by their party. Associated Press.

The state Office of Elections has given the major political parties a chance to find replacements for four candidates who withdrew from state House races, including one Republican candidate on Kauai who deliberately filed and withdrew papers before Tuesday's deadline to buy time for the GOP to field a challenger against a popular Democrat. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Peter Carlisle turned in his letter of resignation Wednesday to the Honolulu City Clerk's office. KITV.

This election season promises no shortage of fireworks, with words already flying between contenders for Mayor about when to take a vote. KHON2.

A flurry of candidate filings may signal a summer of voter discontent, with few Big Island incumbents getting free passes. West Hawaii Today.

A crowded field will vie to challenge Mayor Charmaine Tavares in her bid for re-election this year, with a total of 11 political veterans and newcomers filing to enter the race. Maui News.

Voters can look forward to some spirited races to fill seats being left vacant by departing Maui County Council members this year. Maui News.

Last week, Civil Beat reached out to the three leading candidates for governor and asked each of them to show us evidence of what they do to live sustainably, to see how what they actually do stacks up against their own policy platforms. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilmember Rod Tam has already admitted to making mistakes when he sought reimbursements for meals that had nothing to do with council business. Hawaii News Now.

In less than six months, Maui County's ban on plastic bags will take effect. KHON2.

Hawaii auto sales were up 1.4 percent in the first half of the year compared with the same period last year, and if the trend holds, 2010 will be the first year of growth since 2005. Star-Advertiser.

Madame Pele appears to be putting the brakes on the flow of lava in Kalapana, but it may be a case of too little too late for one home that county Civil Defense evacuated Sunday. Tribune-Herald.

Civil Defense was on scene as crews set up barricades late Wednesday evening. Stephen Rose, the supervisor of the Kalapana viewing area told Hawaii News Now that Kilauea's newest lava flow has begun creeping toward a neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

Now that a law has been passed banning the sale of fishponds on state-owned property, citizen groups are looking to take two off the hands of the Department of Transportation. Honolulu Weekly.

A County Council committee delayed action Tuesday on a bill that would discourage the export of fish for aquariums. West Hawaii Today.

The state is moving forward with plans to renovate ferry facilities on Kaunakakai Wharf with a new waiting area, restrooms, sewer main and two water lines to supply water in case of fire, detailed in a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) released last month. Molokai Dispatch.

The talk Wednesday was about moving the homeless, but this time it is with a much needed service. KITV.

A Kapa‘a man said he remains traumatized nearly three weeks after three Kaua‘i Police Department officers delivered him a written warning of trespassing on July 2. Garden Island.

The time that Babe Ruth came to town. Big Island Weekly.