Lava is hot, but nothing like Abercrombie-Hannemann matchup, Kenoi takes heat for budget, Kauai struggling with technology, Molokai fights wind turbines, more news from all the islands

Lava oozing from Kilauea Volcano forced the evacuation of a Kalapana couple and their dogs yesterday and closed within 100 yards of their house — one day after the flow crossed the Big Island's Kalapana access road and enveloped the intersection of Highways 130 and 137, sending up a plume of thick, black smoke. Star-Advertiser.

An unusual 3.5-magnitude earthquake shook homes around Oahu yesterday, capping a wild weekend of seismic activity around the Pacific. Star-Advertiser.

Abercrombie-Hannemann rivalry promises primary-race pyrotechnics. Associated Press.

To some, the love shown by Mufi Hannemann, Neil Abercrombie and other politicians to the Hawaii Carpenters Union on Saturday may have resembled pandering. Civil Beat.

Honolulu mayor Mufi Hannemann has clarified his position on the Civil Unions Bill. KHON2.

Just as Hawaii's recession-weary economy is turning the corner on rising unemployment, the state's jobless have been dealt another setback. Star-Advertiser.

The fight to keep wind turbines off Hawaiian homestead lands on Molokai continued on Sunday as homesteaders sought assurance from the Department of Hawaiian Home Land (DHHL) that wind farms would not be built at Mo`omomi and Anahaki in central west Molokai. Molokai Dispatch.

Mayor Billy Kenoi claims Hawaii County departments are spending 35 percent less than when he took office, but a Tribune-Herald analysis shows otherwise. Tribune-Herald.

The Kaua‘i County Council years ago approved funding to drastically improve Internet accessibility to county meetings and public documents, including posting the minutes, agendas and bills. But it wasn’t until Wednesday that a resolution was introduced to finally establish concrete policies. Garden Island.

A record number 64 medical students were donned with white coats and stethoscopes during a welcoming ceremony at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It's the UH School Medicines Class of 2014. Hawaii News Now.

Many think Manhattan is the most expensive place in America, but according to a survey done by the commercial real estate firm Colliers it costs nearly $2 more to park in Honolulu for a day than in midtown Manhattan. KITV.

Despite bankruptcy, a group from the Honolulu Symphony continues to play. KHON2.

A plan calling for 1,500 homes in a new Olowalu town has had its ardent supporters and equally passionate detractors for five years, and so far the proposed development has won support from the General Plan Advisory Committee and the Maui Planning Commission. Maui News.

A Koloa-based company which has been bottling spring water from Kahili Mountain since 2003 may be forced to close its doors unless an appeal against the company is lifted, said Kaua‘i Springs owner Jim Satterfield. Garden Island.

A new (and very old) agricultural technique is getting lots of attention these days. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Five-0 a go, school test scores up, Maui to regulate fish collecting, new fee for UH students, military ruffles feathers, money in politics, more

Rest easy, Honolulu. McGarrett and his crew are back on the case. Star-Advertiser.

A traditional Hawaiian blessing marked the start of production of the reinvented CBS TV crime series "Hawaii Five-0." KITV.

Hawaii's economy is expected to get a much needed boost as a primetime television show kicks off production, along with a major motion picture filming here in the islands. KHON2.

The state says 67 percent of Hawaii public school students scored proficient in reading this year, up slightly from 65 percent last year. In math, 49 percent rated proficient, up from 44 percent. Associated Press.

Despite spending fewer days in the classroom, public school students continued to make gains in reading and math test scores this year, according to results released yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Most grade-level scores trended upward but when it comes to federal progress standards high schools are still showing more room for growth. KHON2.

Hawaii public school student test scores went up this past year in every category except one, according to statistics released by the Department of Education on Thursday. KITV

With this year's elections fast approaching, the call for election day volunteers is getting louder. KHON2.

When it comes to campaign donations, who comes out ahead in Hawaii's contests for a U.S. Senate seat and the two U.S. House of Representative seats? Civil Beat.

Quickly recharging their fundraising operations after the special election for Congress in May, U.S. Rep. Charles Djou raised $176,980 in the last weeks of June while state Senate President Colleen Hanabusa brought in $107,224. Star-Advertiser.

Is the Bluest of States Bleeding Red? Civil Beat.

Special election decision to replace Mayor and City Prosecutor. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii regents have approved a new, $50 per semester student athletic fee for the Manoa campus. Associated Press.

Despite what one student decried as "being forced to pay for a steak and champagne dinner and ... getting, maybe, the after-dinner mints," the University of Hawaii Board of Regents overwhelmingly adopted a mandatory athletic fee yesterday as an investment in its financially challenged sports program. Star-Advertiser.


Council members Wednesday took a step closer to regulating the aquarium fish trade, when a committee approved a bill to require county licenses for people who take reef fish to sell. Maui News.

The Navy is studying the effects its training and testing activities have on the environment off Hawaii, Southern California and the ocean in between. Associated Press.

Feathers might have literally been ruffled this weekend when a “large, charcoal-colored military helicopter” flew at a “very high speed” less than 20 feet from native sea bird dwellings Sunday morning at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Garden Island.

Hawaii County got hit with an unexpected $217,000 bill in the fiscal year that ended June 30, thanks to the federal extension of unemployment benefits. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu residents will be paying higher sewer fees for years to come because of a tentative settlement of a six-year-old lawsuit. KITV.

Mayor imposes trash shipping deadline. Hawaii News Now.

After three months of halted access to the Kalaupapa settlement because of an eroded bridge along the pali trail, National Park Service (NPS) officials say it could take another three months before the trail re-opens to the public. The closure has left Kalaupapa’s visitor industry – the mule rides and charter tours – struggling for survival. Molokai Dispatch.

A messy situation at Waialea Bay in South Kohala has raised a stink among some Big Island residents and visitors. West Hawaii Today.

Opponents of Hawaii County's attempts to sell Hamakua lands took their grievances to the Board of Ethics on Wednesday, but found no sympathetic ears. Tribune-Herald.

Whether Hamakua lands were stolen from Native Hawaiians is an issue way beyond its purview, the Hawaii County Board of Ethics said Wednesday in rejecting a petition from a group seeking to halt the county's sale of the land. West Hawaii Today.

The Lahaina community, in its usual way, stepped up big time last week Thursday, when more than 200 guests attended a spectacular fund-raiser for Lahaina Public Library at the Royal Lahaina Resort. Lahaina News.

Hawaii No. 1 in IOU, locking up the homeless, new candidates, judges, fireworks bans, sewer fees, and more news from all the islands

When state legislators passed a law three years ago calling for the creation of regional `Aha Moku councils to help manage Hawaii’s natural resources, many questioned the logistics of the plan. Molokai Dispatch.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources is in the process of revising the rules for uses on conservation lands, and a DLNR spokesperson says it will not look favorably on vacation rentals on such lands. Garden Island.

City wants to involuntarily commit mentally ill homeless people. KHON2.

Currently, Oahu's most severely mentally ill homeless get help only after they've been arrested or they're sick enough to be taken to hospital emergency rooms, but after that, many return to the streets. KITV.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann steps down from his job next week. One of the last things he will ask the city council is to pass two laws aimed at curbing illegal camping on city land. KITV.

Based on Mufi Hannemann's 600,000 Twitter followers, you might guess that half the population of Hawaii is following the mayor. Civil Beat.

Hawaii consumers have racked up the highest credit card debt in the nation, carrying an average of $9,296 per person in the first half of the year. Star-Advertiser

A total ban on consumer fireworks would not stop the problem of illegally imported fireworks overnight, but it could serve as a deterrent and reduce the supply, Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha told City Council members yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

A proposed ban of consumer fireworks on Oahu could become law with just two more votes by the Honolulu City Council. KHON2.

Three Hawaii politicians formally became candidates today, filing documents with the state Office of Elections to appear on state primary ballots in September. Associated Press.

Gary being Gary. Honolulu Weekly.

A consent decree requiring renovations of the city's aging sewer system and more than $1 billion in upgrades of Oahu's two main sewage treatment plants is expected to raise sewer rates for Honolulu residents. Star-Advertiser.

After years of litigation over Honolulu’s sewer systems, the city is one step closer to finalizing a landmark settlement with a group of state and federal environmental agencies and nonprofits. Civil Beat.

A former deputy prosecutor has filed a federal lawsuit against the Maui County Department of the Prosecuting Attorney, alleging she was subjected to discrimination, sexual harassment and retaliation before she was fired last year. Maui News.

A fired Maui County deputy prosecutor has filed a federal lawsuit that accuses her former boss and the department of discrimination, retaliation and sexual harassment. Associated Press.

New developments in the HPD scandal over DUI reports. Hawaii News Now.

The wife of state Sen. Fred Hemmings has pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor theft charges stemming from her time as executive director of a nonprofit organization. Associated Press.

Gov. Linda Lingle this week appointed three Honolulu circuit judges, all with prosecutorial backgrounds and two of them women. Star-Advertiser.

Chief Justice Ronald Moon appointed four lawyers yesterday to six-year terms on the Honolulu district court bench. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii County taxpayers should save thousands in interest on $60 million in bonds issued Tuesday, thanks to a higher bond rating reaffirmed by the three major rating agencies. West Hawaii Today.

An executive assistant for the mayor appeared Tuesday before a special commission looking into how Hawaii County spent $115 million in federal stimulus money. Tribune-Herald.

Environmentalist and Kekaha resident Diana LaBedz on Monday pulled papers to challenge Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. in the September mayoral primary, intends to file papers, and thinks she can unseat the incumbent, she said. Garden Island.

The Hawai`i coffee industry unites for the 15th year, gathering growers, millers, wholesalers and retailers from across the state for the annual Hawai`i Coffee Association (HCA) Industry Conference. Big Island Weekly.
Every eight minutes, a pedestrian is injured in an accident in the United States and nearly 5,000 pedestrians are killed annually by motor vehicles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. West Hawaii Today.

Wells Fargo Bank, trustee of the mortgage lending trust group that foreclosed on the Makena Resort last year, fended off two additional bidders Tuesday and prevailed - with a $95 million bid - to purchase the 1,800-acre property and the Makena Beach & Golf Resort. Maui News.

A meeting to review and possibly approve the final report of the Citizens Advisory Committee for the Kekaha Host Community Benefits Program is scheduled for July 19. Garden Island.

Wind energy plan unveiled, Census tells us what we already knew, tax revenues dip some, Honolulu cops investigation widens, tougher graduation requirements ahead, more

The North Shore of Oahu is about to have a new power plant - a clean power plant that generates 30 megawatts of electricity from wind. (Photo Stan Shebs) KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle's highly criticized move of delaying tax refund payments until after the start of the new fiscal calendar resulted in a higher general fund balance for the recently concluded fiscal year.Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's tax revenue took a slight dip in the fiscal year that recently ended, giving state officials mixed signals about the robustness of the state's economic recovery. Associated Press.

Hawaii's tax revenues took a slight dip during the fiscal year that recently ended. Hawaii News Now.

The state Department of Transportation is moving forward with its development of a statewide pedestrian master plan. Garden Island.

A U.S. Census Bureau report released Tuesday shows Hawaii leads the nation in minority-owned businesses. Associated Press.

Gov. Linda Lingle, in a letter yesterday to the U.S. Senate in favor of a native Hawaiian federal recognition bill, said the bill is "fair and just" and would treat Hawaiians like other indigenous people. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Linda Lingle spoke about her veto of the civil unions bill for the first time since making her controversial decision. KHON2.

Honolulu’s rail plan is "the premier transit project in the entire country,” the congressman who chairs the House transportation committee says. Civil Beat.

After six years of planning, work has gotten under way on Honolulu's $100 million Joint Traffic Management Center. Associated Press.

A synthetic marijuana known as “spice” will be illegal in Hawaii starting Aug. 1. KITV.

Public school students would have to fulfill tougher requirements to earn diplomas, including taking algebra 2 or an equivalent math course and completing a senior project, under changes advanced yesterday by a Board of Education committee. Star-Advertiser,

In an about-face, it appears Kohala schools will be saved from closing -- for now. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann intends to step down from office to run for governor next week, but his political foes are not making his last week easy. KITV.

Circuit Judge Shackley F. Raffetto has confirmed the sale of the Makena Beach & Golf Resort on Maui for $95 million. Associated Press.

Opponents of a consumer fireworks ban say the city should enforce the aerial fireworks prohibition already on the books before trying to add another law to the mix. Star-Advertiser.

The investigation into allegations of false reporting by two Honolulu police sergeants who oversaw DUI enforcement has widened to include half a dozen officers who worked under the pair. Hawaii News Now.


A bunch of drunks were hanging around the Kilauea Military Reservation gymnasium late last week. Hawaii Today.

To address the needs of Kaua‘i’s growing senior population, the Agency on Elderly Affairs is in the process of collecting data that will be incorporated into its Four-Year Area Plan on Aging for October 2011 to September 2015. Garden Island.

Big Island products in spotlight. Tribune-Herald.

Maui's Queen Ka'ahumanu Center will come under the management of Chicago-based Jones Lang LaSalle as part of the restructuring of bankrupt General Growth Properties Inc., which is managing the mall now. Maui News.

Maui Humane Society last week announced it will alter some programs and services as a result of county budget cuts. Lahaina News.

Train stations short on toilets, hospitals get shot in the arm, Maui water fight escalates, tsunami zones updated, more news from all the islands

Sixteen private hospitals will receive more than $8.1 million in federal funds to provide charity care to uninsured and underinsured patients, the state announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Republicans said Monday this election year their goal is to field a GOP candidate for every political office in the state. KITV.

Just over a week remains until the filing deadline to be a candidate for office in the 2010 elections.KHON2.

Hawaii taxpayers have a $10 billion bill coming due — and it could get bigger. Civil Beat.

Economic activity picked up at the end of the fiscal year, but not enough for the state to end in the positive. KHON2.

Maui community groups are appealing the state water commission's recent ruling regarding Na Wai Eha streams, arguing it deprives them of the water they need to grow taro and restore natural habitat. Associated Press.

Community groups seeking to have more diverted water released from Na Wai Eha, or "the Four Great Waters," filed a notice of appeal Monday with the state Commission on Water Resource Management. Maui News.

The Board of Education is considering changes to high school graduation requirements. KITV.

Hawaii's population is aging at two and a half times the national average. KHON2.

Plans for Oahu's rapid transit system call for a single one-toilet public restroom at each of 21 stations. Associated Press.

The green light was given years ago to a centralized location for Oahu traffic management, but today marks the first step toward building the ambitious project aimed at responding in real time to traffic woes.Star-Advertiser.

It's time to double-check your danger zone. New streets, new homes, new elevations - it's all incorporated into Oahu's new tsunami evacuation maps, updated for the first time in nearly two decades. Hawaii News Now.

The advantages of internships are becoming increasingly obvious to businesses and to college students. Hawaii Business.

Some people in East Oahu are breathing a sigh of relief Monday night, now that more rundown million dollar homes in their neighborhood are now on the market. Hawaii News Now.

The County Auditor’s Office on Monday announced to the Cost Control Commission that it plans to complete at least three, possibly five, major audits this fiscal year, which started July 1. Garden Island.

The state Department of Transportation is seeking input from Big Island residents on planned revisions to its 2008-11 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program. West Hawaii Today.

Attend any roping event in Hawaii and you'll find one thing in common -- they're filled with families. Grandparents, fathers, mothers, aunts and uncles across the island are passing on their roping skills and love for the fast-paced sport to future generations. West Hawaii Today.

Our military might, fire blazes on Maui, audit blasts state sheriffs, priceless queen's chair left on steps, internet found lacking on isles, more news

The guided missile destroyer USS Chafee is scheduled to return home to Pearl Harbor on Monday. Associated Press.

Hawaii-based Marines for the first time yesterday began using robotic support vehicles designed to trail behind squads in unfriendly terrain to carry supplies and wounded Marines with no one at the wheel. Star-Advertiser.

The return of the military’s biennial Rim of the Pacific Exercise this month has environmentalists concerned. Garden Island.

Lt. Col. Christopher Faurot likened the Air Force's new F-22 Raptor fighter jet to the io, the hawk that has soared over Hawaii's forests and grasslands for thousands of years. Associated Press.

Four years after Molokai veterans began the process of building a veterans center, a group of fed-up veterans traveled to Maui last week to protest further hold-ups in obtaining their building permit.Molokai Dispatch.



Sunday night the Honolulu Symphony society board of directors announced its best and final Offer has been rejected by the musicians union. KHON2.

On Friday, the musician's union met with the symphony's board of directors to offer its second counter proposal since negotiations began in April. KITV.

Lax management and equipment problems have created a state Sheriff Division that could jeopardize public safety, a scathing audit concludes. Star-Advertiser.

We hear a lot of talk about the ballooning federal deficit. But what about the financial commitments the Hawaii state government has made to public employees? Civil Beat.

International Alzheimer's conference sails to Hawaii for first time. Hawaii News Now.

 State De- partment of Public Safety officials said last week that they hope to begin construction sometime next year on the $235 million first phase of a new multipurpose jail complex to replace the "overcrowded, dilapidated and inefficient" Maui Community Correctional Center. Maui News.

Maui fire quickly spreads near Happy Valley. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Civil Defense has requested the power be shut off in Happy Valley in order to protect firefighters fighting flames in the area. KHON2.

Towering flames consumed brush on a ridge above Happy Valley and below the Wailuku Country Estates on Sunday night, drawing spectators and bringing traffic congestion to nearby roads. Maui News.

George Yokoyama brings millions in government grants to the Big Island, and through his taxpayer-funded transportation service, he literally delivers the votes. Or at least the voters. West Hawaii Today.

When a donated antique chair was left on the front steps of the Academy Art Center at Linekona on Thursday, the art school thought it found a pretty new perch for its nude models. Star-Advertiser.

Kamehameha Schools announced on its website that it has admitted a non-Hawaiian student. KITV.

Officials make case for faster internet. Tribune-Herald.

The Department of Emergency Management will reveal its updated Tsunami Evacuation Zone maps for Oahu Monday. KHON2.

Raptor takes to Hawaii skies, Big Island pot ministry busted, biofuel program stalls with Lingle veto, new voting, campaign laws, casting call for Battleship, airline stays in Vegas, more

The Air Force plans to put the world's most advanced fighter jet on display in a brief aerial demonstration off the Waianae Coast. Associated Press.

The U.S. and 13 other nations conduct war games off Hawaii every two years. KITV.

Open casting call for the movie "Battleship" KHON2.

A new leaf blower ban is in effect after Governor Linda Lingle let it become law without signing it.KHON2.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has sided with the environmental law firm Earthjustice over a nuclear irradiation facility proposed near Honolulu Airport to treat fruits and vegetables for export. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i was named Hawai‘i’s Best Island for the second year in a row by readers of Travel + Leisure magazine, according to a Thursday Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau press release. Garden Island.

State environmentalists have worked hard to educate the public about the potential dangers of introducing nonindigenous species into Hawaii's natural habitats. Star-Advertiser.

Workers at Maunalua Bay have cleared more than 1 million tons of invasive algae from the East Oahu bay over the past four months. Associated Press.

The Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve will remain closed to people for another two years, the state announced Wednesday. Maui News.

New campaign finance regulations allowed to become law this week by Gov. Linda Lingle should make it easier for the public to follow the race for something almost as important as votes in politics — money. Civil Beat.

Voters for the first time can sign up this year for permanent absentee voting. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic congresswoman Mazie Hirono is hoping to secure her third term in the U.S. House of Representatives. KHON2.

A plan to convert Big Island gorse, macadamia nut shells and other waste into biofuel took a step backward this week, with Gov. Linda Lingle's veto of a $40 million special purpose revenue bond. West Hawaii Today.

Perhaps you’ve seen those sleek and ubiquitous commericals airing during local TV newscasts lately? The ads trumpet Waikiki’s future while showing marvelous architectural drawings, then vaguely asking for your support. Honolulu Weekly.

Hundreds of Hawaiian Airlines passengers experienced an extended trip to Las Vegas. KHON2.

Big Island marijuana advocate Roger Christie, his partner, two employees of the Hawaii Cannabis Ministry and 10 people who allegedly supplied marijuana for the ministry are facing federal marijuana manufacturing, possession and distribution charges. Star-Advertiser.

Over the Independence Day weekend, one Puna roadside memorial went to pot -- literally. Tribune-Herald.

Two Honolulu police sergeants are under investigation for allegedly submitting false reports involving DUI cases. Now, it appears that drunken driving cases involving them are mysteriously getting dismissed. Hawaii News Now.

Matson Navigation Co. on Thursday announced it is dropping its fuel surcharge 2 percentage points. KITV.

Hawaii County is spending $3.9 million to install roofing, expand recycling, and make its Pahoa transfer station safer. Tribune-Herald.

Yet another new subdivision is being proposed adjacent to the long-planned, unlikely-to-be-built Alii Highway. West Hawaii Today.

Through midyear, Maui residential real estate sales activity has zoomed upward, although prices have not. Maui News.

Maui Humane Society last week announced it will alter some programs and services as a result of county budget cuts. Lahanina News.

Akaka Bill heading for vote, UH scientists predict oil spread, civil union veto could hurt tourism, Inouye talks stimulus funding, more Hawaii news

A vote in the U.S. Senate on allowing Native Hawaiians to form their own government could come this month following a deal between Hawaii's Democratic senators and the state's Republican governor. Associated Press.

The Akaka bill on Wednesday cleared a groundbreaking hurdle and now a vote could come down this month in the U.S. Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Linda Lingle has agreed to strongly support a native Hawaiian federal recognition bill after U.S. Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka promised to insert changes to protect the state's regulatory power. Star-Advertiser.

The Native Hawaiian Reorganization Act, known as the Akaka Bill, could soon be on its way to a vote in the U.S Senate. KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle stood her ground on the Akaka Bill — and in the end it means she had her way. Civil Beat.

A team of University of Hawaii researchers has produced a long-range computer simulation with new details showing where the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico could spread. Star-Advertiser.



The state is losing more than a half million dollars a year because it's leasing a building it already owns near Honolulu International Airport. KITV.

Despite the stakes for public education and the attention given to the issue by Gov. Linda Lingle, none of the candidates for governor has made the structure of the state Board of Education a significant part of their education platforms.Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Linda Lingle's veto of legislation to grant civil unions to same-sex couples is generating rumblings of a possible boycott of tourism-dependent Hawaii. Associated Press.

Civil Union Supporters Mount Hawaii Boycott. KITV.

Lawmakers are aware this is still a hot issue but are hopeful constituents don't lose sight of other legislative accomplishments this session. But that may be a tough sell. KHON2.

While many have voiced their opinion on House Bill 444, one gubernatorial candidate's stance remained unclear. Hawaii News Now.

Governor Linda Lingle has allowed the following 24 bills to go into law without her signature.  Six of the bills were on the Governor’s potential veto list that she submitted to the Legislature on June 21. KHON2.

Sen. Daniel Inouye (D) Wed- nesday heard from Hawaii agencies pleased with the millions they have received in federal stimulus money. KITV.

When Inouye conducted a hearing of the Senate Appropriations Committee at the Hawaii State Capitol Wednesday, a contingent of eight Capitol Police from Washington, D.C., lined the hall and the hearing room. They were backed up by three state sheriffs. KITV.

Maui County last to enact cell ban. Maui News.

Proposed new rules regarding conservation and coastal lands would allow for more land uses, like creating renewable energy, and for routine property maintenance, state officials said. West Hawaii Today.

Shoppers at Borders Books and Music in Hilo were greeted Tuesday by signs announcing that the store is closing. Tribune-Herald.

By continuing to chop rates, Maui hoteliers boosted occupancy to 60.5 percent in May, according to the Smith Travel Research statistics published by Hospitality Advisors in Honolulu. Maui News.

Vacation packages and Hollywood’s renewed presence on island are the most likely reasons for the recent improvements to certain economic indicators in the visitor industry, county officials said Wednesday. Garden Island.

Hawaii County will soon start allowing owners of more than 150,000 Big Island vehicles to renew their yearly registrations online, a senior administrator said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Stacy Jeffrey discovered aviation not through movies or books, but through a chance encounter with a set of French doors. West Hawaii Today.

She may be a political rookie, but Elle Cochran’s fiery ambition and enthusiastic personality prove she is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to campaigning for a seat on the Maui County Council. Molokai Dispatch.

Complete Hawaii coverage of civil unions HB444 veto, other Lingle vetoes. more Hawaii news

Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a civil-unions bill yesterday after concluding it was the equivalent to marriage, which she believes should be reserved for a man and a woman. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's governor on Tuesday vetoed legislation that would have permitted same-sex civil unions, ending weeks of speculation on how she would weigh in on the contentious, emotional debate. Associated Press.

In announcing her veto of HB 444, Gov. Linda Lingle called it maybe the hardest decision she's made in eight years in office. Hawaii News Now.

Saying House bill 444 was essentially marriage by another name Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed legislation Tuesday that would have granted the same rights and benefits of marriage to same-sex couples. KHON2.

It was an argument, and people driving on Beretania Street couldn't miss it as they drove past the state Capitol about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday morning. Civil Beat.

Governor Lingle's HB444 Statement: KHON2.

The ACLU and other pro-civil unions groups expect to file suit in state court within the next month or so, after Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed civil union legislation Tuesday. KITV

Supporters who wanted civil unions given the same status as marriage aren't happy with the Governor's decision, and vow to continue fighting. KHON2.

At least two of the three leading candidates to succeed Linda Lingle as governor say it should be up to a vote of the people to decide the issue of civil unions. Hawaii News-Now.

"I VOTE" was the message emblazoned on white T-shirts and buttons that hundreds of opponents to the civil-unions bill wore yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Linda Lingle on Tuesday vetoed House Bill 444, which took two years to be approved by the state Legislature and would have given same-sex and heterosexual couples the same rights and benefits as couples united by traditional marriage. Garden Island.

The civil unions bill may have gotten the most attention, but the governor also vetoed a number of other measures Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle has vetoed legislation that would have banned shark feeding, including by boat tours that offer a close-up look at sharks. KITV

Saying it could take funds away from other programs at a time when most state employees are making sacrifices, Gov. Linda Lingle vetoed a proposal to raise the salary cap for the state schools superintendent and provide performance bonuses for other top education officials. Star-Advertiser.

UH officials say a major security breach could impact an estimated 53,000 people. KHON2.

As dozens of women and children danced to the beat of Taiko drums Saturday at Kohala Hongwanji Mission's bon odori dance, Waimea resident Luana Cuyo said she could feel the spirit of her late stepfather. West Hawaii Today.

Firefighters responded to at least a dozen fires during the Fourth of July weekend, some of which were suspected to be caused by fireworks. Maui News.

Fires -- at least one possibly resulting from festive fireworks use -- broke out in each corner of Hawaii Island during the holiday weekend. Tribune-Herald.

“Voices of Maui: Natives and Newcomers,” a new book authored by award-winning Lahaina News columnist Norm Bezane, is being previewed on a YouTube video and will debut online and at selected locations in Lahaina this week. Lahaina News.

This week Governor Lingle has an opportunity to leave a historic legacy for Hawai’i. HB 1665 protects Hawaii’s history by prohibiting sale of government owned Hawaiian fishponds. Molokai Dispatch.

Today's the deadline for Lingle to act on civil unions, 30 other bills on veto list, trespassing census worker, no free lunch, fireworks cleanup, BBQ winners, more

Although ohia lehua is one of the most abundant trees in the Hawaiian Islands and dominates our forests, it is not often found in landscape settings. West Hawaii Today.

Tuesday is the deadline for the governor to act on more than 30 bills that are on her potential veto list. KHON2.

Gov. Linda Lingle is set to announce her highly awaited decision on a proposal to allow same-sex couples to form civil unions. Associated Press.

How big of a deal is Gov. Linda Lingle's decision on Hawaii civil unions today? Civil Beat.

The civil unions bill is to give same sex and heterosexual couples all the benefits of marriage under Hawaii law. KITV.

We're on the eve of one of Governor Lingle's most highly anticipated decisions KHON2.

The first-ever county employee furloughs coupled with vacancies in some Kaua‘i Police Department civilian positions will add up to suffering service, KPD Chief Darryl Perry said last week. Garden Island.

The number of low-income Hawaii children receiving free lunch during the summer through a federally funded nutrition program has declined sharply, a drop the state attributes to fewer participating organizations opting to serve a midday meal. Star-Advertiser.

In these divisive times, Census worker Russell Haas has come to expect some resistance when he goes door to door to count the residents of the rugged communities near Hawaii's Kilauea volcano. He didn't expect to get arrested. Associated Press.

Two Big Island teachers were named recipients of the prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, Gov. Linda Lingle announced yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

Black Press, which bought the Honolulu Advertiser last month and turned it into the Star Advertiser, has bought 11 more newspapers in British Columbia. Hawaii News Now.

The fireworks fuse is burning toward July 14.  That's the next Honolulu city council vote on banning fireworks. Hawaii News Now.

Firecrackers are great, until you have to clean up afterward. Garden Island.

Ranch Says No Wind Negotiations Underway. Molokai Dispatch.

Mike Lindley and son Jackson will wake up Tuesday morning, to start their adventure, which includes 50 hikes in 50 states in 50 states. KITV.

Jake Newlon is the Big Island's sultan of smoke. Tribune-Herald.

Transair, which flies the mail into and out of Maui every day and flies commercial cargo at night, will begin a daytime Maui cargo stop Wednesday. Maui News.

Neighbor islands to decide governor's race, census worker trespassing, Honolulu faces $1.7M fine for dumping in waterway, more state news

With most polls showing a whisker- thin margin between the two main Democratic contenders for governor and some also showing the Republican candidate within striking distance, the neighbor islands are becoming popular destinations for statewide political candidates seeking that edge. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Democratic Party's picnic was the place to see and be seen Sunday evening, as both Democratic candidates for governor, at least five candidates for lieutenant governor and a handful of local candidates stopped by. West Hawaii Today.

Makawao's Paniolo Parade lived up to its election year tradition as a major draw for candidates Saturday, with enough campaign shirts, signs and paraphernalia to turn Baldwin Avenue into a moving political rally. Maui News.

Census worker Russell Haas has come to expect a little resistance when he goes door to door to count the residents of the rugged communities near Hawaii's Kilauea volcano. He didn't expect to get arrested. AP.

Gov. Linda Lingle in the first half of the year pardoned 11 people previously convicted of crimes.KITV

With several of its companies already occupied battling a large brush fire near Ko Olina, the Honolulu Fire Department responded to 26 fire calls between midnight and 9 p.m. today. Eight of the fires are believed to be fireworks related. Star-Advertiser.


This 4th of July weekend, many are honoring their loved ones who died fighting for the freedoms we enjoy today. But some feel no one's fighting for them when it comes to the upkeep of their veterans' memorial sites.Hawaii News Now.

Tens of thousands of people are at Ala Moana Beach Park. KHON2

Today we publish writings on the meaning of independence, 234 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, with its memorable words. Civil Beat.

Explosive devices wash up along a Waimanalo beach. KHON2

The city has been fined more than $1.7 million by the state Department of Health for unloading hundreds of truckloads of concrete slabs into a West Oahu stream area frequented by endangered Hawaiian birds. Star-Advertiser.

Construction on a permanent bypass around Paia town could begin in five years, under a plan by the state Department of Transportation. Maui News.

Hawaii state Rep. Karen Awana is the new treasurer for the National Caucus of Native American State Legislators. KITV.


The Big Island's lawmakers have had their say, and now they, too, await the governor's decision on civil unions. Herald-Tribune.

Kaua‘i is one of the last places on the planet to remain free of the varroa mite — a parasite which attaches to honey bees and feeds on their blood, eventually causing population demise, said Jimmy Trujillo of the Kaua‘i Beekeeper’s Association. Garden Island.

The population of Westside honey bees is in “worse shape” than other parts of the island, said Jimmy Trujillo of the Kaua‘i Beekeeper’s Association. Garden Island.

Ranch Attempts to Legalize Water System. Molokai Dispatch


A new monument at Kahekili Beach Park tells the story of Kaanapali Airport and the legendary Royal Hawaiian Air Service (RHAS). Lahaina News.

First furlough Friday for local governments today, Akaka told to hurry on Hawaiian recognition, Big Island papaya farmer hit hard by vandals, new cruise ship coming, more news from around the isles

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka has been advised he must act quickly on a native Hawaiian federal recognition bill or lose the chance to bring it to a vote before the November elections change the political composition of the Senate. Star-Advertiser.

There are two words in our language that can be used to mean independence: kuokoa and ea. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona called yesterday for a "comprehensive, independent" audit of the state Department of Education and said if elected governor he would make sure schools get 90 cents out of every dollar that goes to the department Star-Advertiser.

It's already turning into a heated battle. The democratic candidates for governor continue to point fingers at each other. Hawaii News Now.

A bill banning all consumer fireworks advanced out of the City Council Public Safety and Services Committee by a vote of 3-0. A public hearing on the measure before the full Council is set for July 14. Star-Advertiser.

A Big Island farmer is devastated by the destruction of thousands of his papaya trees at the hands of vandals. Hawaii News Now.

The first image to come out of Mauna Kea's newest telescope doesn't amount to much, from a scientific standpoint.Tribune-Herald.

Carnival Cruise Lines said it plans to offer two California-to-Hawaii round-trip voyages next year and the year after. KITV.

Property tax rates for homeowners and other categories will go up, landfill tipping fees will increase and it will be a little more expensive to play a round of golf at the Waiehu Municipal Golf Course, starting today. Maui News.

First it was the state, now it's the city's turn. KHON2.

Starting Friday, residents will find most Hawaii County government offices closed on the first and third Fridays of every month, as the county struggles to balance its budget in a sour economy. West Hawaii Today.

In union-employer negotiation parlance, what the forced Friday off today for many county employees is known as is a “give back” or “concessionary takeaway.” Garden Island.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares announced that all County of Maui civil service and appointed employees, excluding uniformed police and fire department employees under separate collective bargaining agreements, will be furloughed 12 days in the next fiscal year, July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. Lahaina News.

Wayne Meadows said he's at a satellite City Hall nearly every day for his business as an auto dealer, sometimes more than one in a day. By law he's allowed only two title transfers a day per location. KITV.

Plans are moving forward for two new condo projects in the Ala Moana-Kakaako Area. KHON2.

Ranch Attempts to Legalize Water System. Molokai Dispatch.

The state's Natural Area Reserve System would grow by 6,600 acres under a proposal to incorporate most of the former Kulani Correctional Facility for research and species preservation.Tribune-Herald.

Just as DW Aina Lea representatives are set to argue before the state Land Use Commission their project is moving forward, contractors working on the project say they haven't been paid in months. West Hawaii Today.

A lawsuit seeking to remove Lanai Council Member Sol Kaho'ohalahala from office will go to trial next month, after a judge on Wednesday said he would not make an immediate ruling on the case. Maui News.

Mayor Bernard P. Carvalho Jr. said he still intends to site a residential, adolescent, drug-treatment facility on the island before year’s end. Garden Island.

Hawaii even less affordable, thanks to new tax hikes that go into effect today, more state news

New laws and more taxes, on Thursday morning, we'll all be waking up to a long list of tax hikes on water, cigarettes, and gas, and higher property bills. Hawaii News Now.

New laws effective today ban shark fin foods,charge fees for mixed martial arts events, increase cigarette taxes, raise payment for traffic abstracts and strip businesses and nonprofits of tax-exempt status if they do not file general excise tax returns. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents may hate July 1, the start of the new fiscal year, as much as they despise April 15. KHON2.

New cigarette taxes hitting Hawaii smokers Thursday make each pack cost 40 cents more, reaching an average of nearly $8. AP.

The state and city are raising fees for a number of services.KITV

County pools will be closed once a week starting Thursday, due to budget and staffing cuts that left the Aquatic Division without enough pool guards.. Maui News.

Fifth of Big Isle on food stamps. Hawaii Tribune-Herald.

Where's the Beef? No Reason to Oppose Civil Unions. Civil Beat.

Dear Gov. Lingle, Sometime between now and July 6, you will make your final decision on HB444, the civil-unions bill. Honolulu Weekly.

State tourism officials said Hawaii is seeing an increase in demand for summer travel, both in the domestic and international market. KITV

In January you'll have a new airline to choose from if you're traveling between Seoul and Honolulu. KHON2.

Hawaiian Airlines last week launched its first-ever, nonstop daily flights between Oakland and Maui. Lahaina News.

According to a high Army official, the Army never intended to remove depleted uranium ammunition remnants from Pohakuloa Training Area and Shofield Barracks, and it has no plans to do so for as long as the firing ranges at those facilities are still in use. Big Island Weekly.

Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann's campaign for governor has questioned former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie's support for removing a federal ban on offshore oil drilling, pointing to the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico as an example of the danger.Star-Advertiser.

A new poll released Wednesday suggests Hawaii's Democratic Party is likely to take back the governor's office. Hawaii News Now.

A new poll shows both former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann ahead of Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona in hypothetical matchups for governor in November. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares will take until Tuesday to sign into law a bill that will make it illegal to use a cellular phone or other mobile electronic devices while driving. Maui News.

W.S. Merwin acknowledges that his relatively reclusive life on a former pineapple plantation built on the slopes of Haleakala on Maui will be disturbed by the Library of Congress’ announcement this morning naming him the country’s poet laureate. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiians want bridge work stopped, claim ‘obfuscation.' Garden Island.

Staking for construction of both a new Wailua Beach parking lot and a retaining wall that is part of the old cane-haul-bridge widening project could have alarmed some residents who may have thought it was for construction of the county’s coastal path, said a state Department of Transportation spokeswoman. Garden Island.