New council may change rail, Aiona gets flu shot, Hilo Harbor changes questioned, federal judge to override campaign limits, Pflueger pleads not guilty, more news from the islands

New Council May Bring More Skeptical Eye on Rail. Civil Beat.

Lingle Eyes U.S. Sen. Akaka's Seat. KITV.

A debate led to the creation of the Ironman, a grueling test of fitness, endurance and human spirit. West Hawaii Today.

Some healthy-pregnancy advocates are calling for a re-examination of Hawaii's outreach to expectant mothers after a state Health Department report shows that nearly half of all Hawaii births are unintended, 19 percent of women binge-drink leading up to their pregnancies and 16 percent of island women are obese before they become pregnant. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge will issue an order overriding the $1,000 limit on contributions to a political action committee from two people challenging the state campaign finance law. Star-Advertiser.

Republican gubernatorial nominee James "Duke" Aiona has been vaccinated against the flu, and he says the media misconstrued his comments that vaccines may not be more beneficial than harmful. Associated Press.

A week after KITV4 News asked Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona why he does not get a flu shot, his campaign on Monday announced the candidate has been vaccinated. KITV.

A television ad for Charles Djou that features a video clip of Colleen Hanabusa saying, "I can tell you right now, in government I don't think there's waste, per se," is drawing criticism that her comment is being taken out of context. Star-Advertiser.

Is voter interest cooling? Hawaii News Now.

James Pflueger has pleaded not guilty to tax fraud charges in U.S. District Court in Honolulu. Associated Press.

If you've ever come back to find your car towed, you know how expensive, time-consuming, and stressful the whole process can be. KHON2.

A one-of-a-kind airplane made its first visit to Honolulu and took 30 Hawaii teachers to a whole new level, as part of the Northrop Grumman Foundation's "Weightless Flights of Discovery" program. KHON2.

Fishermen and thrill-craft operators have raised safety concerns with the state's plans to place an artificial reef at the end of Hilo's breakwater as part of a $57 million harbor-expansion project. Tribune-Herald.

Kamehameha Schools is getting more time to decide whether to reacquire prime undeveloped land owned by the city in Haleiwa where a developer wants a boutique hotel. Star-Advertiser.

County officials Tuesday will provide an update at the Kilauea Neighborhood Center on the county’s efforts regarding the Kilauea Stream clean-up, a county press release states. Garden Island.

Maui High School's share of a five-year, $10 million federal grant will be about $2 million, according to Ron Okamura, McKinley High School's principal and a former district superintendent for the Hana-Lahaina-Lanai school complex in Maui County. Maui News.

Members of the American Association of University Women Kaua‘i Branch, met Sept. 25 at the Lihu‘e Library Community room to address ongoing concerns of equity. Garden Island.

The Navy has awarded a $51.9 million contract to a Hawaii company for a massive, 2-mile long security fence at the Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, home to the Pacific Trident missile nuclear submarines. Associated Press.

Hawaii County has received a $4 million grant to build a new one-stop transportation facility for its bus system. KITV.

Marine issues surface this week, gu bernatorial candidates address early childhood issues, Hyatt lays off 70, more Hawaii news

An international effort to create a Census of Marine Life was completed Monday with maps and three books, increasing the number of counted and validated species to 201,206. Associated Press.

Oil spill prevention and response officials in the Pacific are due to discuss lessons learned from this summer's oil spill off the Gulf Coast at meeting in Waikiki this week. Associated Press.

A Humane Society official said Friday that federal wildlife officials botched an operation intended to keep birds from endangering planes at Hilo International Airport. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii will be part of an unprecedented long-term study of children's health in the United States. Hawaii News Now.

An Olowalu Mauka resident is suing Maui County, claiming the developers of his subdivision violated numerous permit requirements, and county officials did nothing to enforce the law. Maui News.

Thousands of visitors stop at Sunset Beach every year to take in one of the best surf breaks in the world. KHON2.

The Kokua Kailua Village Stroll brings hundreds, if not thousands, of people into the downtown Kailua-Kona area, however, some business owners say the street fair has grown so large it's competing with the very people the event set out to help. West Hawaii Today.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission approved Tuesday a bill that would ultimately give the county Planning Department the power to impose civil fines on zoning-ordinance violators, plus allow revenues to go to the county general fund. Garden Island.

Both Charles Djou and Colleen Hanabusa say one way to spur the economy is to avoid raising personal income taxes. Star-Advertiser.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said yesterday that if elected governor he would create a state Department of Early Childhood and restore funding for Healthy Start, a child-abuse prevention program, while Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said he would propose a tax credit to help middle-class families afford preschool for their children. Star-Advertiser.

Early childhood education was the main issue addressed by the Democrat, Republican and Independent candidates. KHON2.

Allies of Republican gubernatorial candidate James ''Duke'' Aiona are employing a phrase in television ads and brochures that has been used innocuously in different contexts over the years. Associated Press.

Owners of historic homes on Oahu are getting substantial tax breaks to help offset the cost of preserving their properties, yet they are not required to reinvest the savings into the dwellings. Star-Advertiser.

Residents on the Big Island of Hawaii were shaken by a magnitude 3.9 earthquake Sunday morning. Hawaii News Now.

There will soon be more new The Kaua‘i Bus vehicles on the road, as U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye, D-Hawai‘i, said the county will receive $925,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for new vehicles. Garden Island.

70 Hyatt employees laid off. Garden Island.

Hawaii transportation officials are seeking to buy a section of land that is now used to store sand and other materials as part of a move to expand facilities at Kalaeloa Barbers Point Harbor. Associated Press.

The state has launched an automated telephone directory that will ease the way for callers to reach executive and legislative branch offices. Associated Press.

A rather large object is attracting quite a bit of attention just offshore Kalama Beach Park in Kailua. KITV.

Tourism rebounds, HPD seeks cops, Lingle says Abercrombie too old and set in ways, gubernatorial candidates debate health care, more Hawaii news

The Hawaii Tourism Authority reports visitors who came to the islands in August spent $1.1 billion, a 30 percent jump over August of last year. Hawaii News Now.

It's been a superb summer for the visitor industry with total visitor arrivals up in August for the ninth consecutive month. KITV.

Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle took a shot at Democratic gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie Thursday morning, suggesting to a pro-business group that the former congressman's old age makes him set in his ways. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona said yesterday that they would preserve the state's Prepaid Health Care Act, which requires businesses to provide health insurance for employees, but indicated that the state law might have to be changed to remain financially sound. Star-Advertiser.

 The two leading candidates for Hawaii governor explained Thursday what they will do in the face of federal health insurance reform to retain current health insurance benefits for Hawaii residents. KITV.

The debate touched on the future of Hawaii's prepaid health care act -- the one that mandates employer-sponsored benefits -- in the context of the new national health care law. KHON2.

Democrats are denouncing U.S. Rep. Charles Djou's opposition to legislation to provide up to $7.4 billion to workers sickened during cleanup of the World Trade Center site in New York after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Associated Press.

For the first time, NOAA’s Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is actively seeking Lanai and Molokai representatives for its advisory council. Molokai Dispatch.

Three years after a state-backed plan was engineered to prevent a dramatic loss of low-income rental apartments at one of Oahu's largest affordable-housing communities, a big piece of the plan has faltered. Star-Advertiser.

Five Hawaii high schools will share a five-year, $10 million federal grant to bolster their "smaller learning communities" -- programs aimed at decreasing dropout rates, improving achievement and better preparing students for colleges or careers. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government is helping the University of Hawaii at Hilo convert an aging dormitory into a living-learning center and boost Native Hawaiian graduation rates. Tribune-Herald.

The Honolulu Police Department is looking for new recruits. Hawaii News Now.

North Hawaii Community Hospital officials announced Wednesday they've already found a new president and chief executive, less than a month after John White announced his resignation. Ken Wood starts Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Does the Goldilocks planet also have alien bears? Tribune-Herald.

Kahului Airport's main runway needs to be repaved, and state Department of Transportation officials say the work can be done at night so flights and airport operations continue uninterrupted. Maui News.

Groundwork for a scaled-back Laiopua Community Center just south of Kealakehe High School could begin as early as July 2011 if local charity Laiopua 2020 can secure $9.8 million to get work under way. West Hawaii Today.

Inter-Island seeks waterfall landings amid contested ownership. Garden Island.

A network of Hawaiian organizations and businesses have banded together to help small (under $25,000 annually) Native Hawaiian organizations maintain their tax exemption statuses. Maui News.

Planet discovered, Aiona not walking the talk, charter school faces challenges, voters yawn at BOE ballot, lots of millionaires here, coral bleaching, airport bird kill draws fire, more Hawaii news

Astronomers used Mauna Kea's Keck 1 telescope to discover an Earth-like planet that could contain water and possibly even life, a finding likely to reinvigorate the search for extraterrestrial life and inspire Hawaii's next generation of space explorers. Star-Advertiser.

 Our state, the smallest  in the nation has the biggest number of millionaires living in it per capita. KHON2.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park officials have met with their Big Island neighbors to discuss the continuing drought that could lead to wildfires.  Associated Press.

Broad areas of the Big Island continue to suffer from severe drought, and relief appears to be months away. Tribune-Herald.

The head of Hawaii's largest union says he will seek to alter the state open records law in the coming legislative session to limit access to information about public employee salaries. Civil Beat.

Corals at remote atolls northwest of the main Hawaiian islands suffered some bleaching this summer as ocean temperatures rose to higher than normal levels for a couple of weeks. Associated Press.

NOAA: Papahanaumokuakea coral bleaching not as bad. KHON2.

The mysterious brown stuff found in the ocean Tuesday off Kailua Beach has been revealed. KITV.

Gov. Candidate Aiona Refuses To Get Flu Shots. KITV.

It's not setting sail but the trash meant for the mainland is finally on the move. Hawaii News Now.

Kamehameha Schools is evaluating whether to reacquire city-owned parcels in Haleiwa, part of the same property that D.G. "Andy" Anderson wants for a boutique hotel. Star-Advertiser.

What a federal wildlife official termed a "shotgun control operation" Monday afternoon in Keaukaha was aimed at stopping cattle egrets from endangering aircraft at nearby Hilo International Airport. Tribune-Herald.

The University of Hawaii has been ranked among the world's top 200 universities in a recent publication. Hawaii News Now.

Big reforms planned for Hawaii public schools and lingering anger over teacher furloughs weren't enough to boost low voter participation in Board of Education races. Star-Advertiser.

The proposed Laupahoehoe Community Public Charter School has one last bureaucratic hurdle to clear before preparing for an August 2011 opening, but it's a big one -- acquiring a charter from the state. Tribune-Herald.

Efforts to convert Laupahoehoe High and Elementary School on the Big Island to a charter school are continuing, thanks to an extension of a federal grant. Associated Press.

Young Brothers officials are threatening to ask for rate increases for their interisland shipping services if the state's Public Utilities Commission allows another shipping company to "cherry pick" the most profitable routes. West Hawaii Today.

Young Brothers will file for reconsideration of last week's Public Utilities Commission decision to allow Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines to move vehicles and heavy cargo interisland on its ship, MV Jean Anne. Maui News.

A crowd of applicants greeted Transportation Security Administration employees at a job fair Wednesday at the Lihu‘e Civic Center. Garden Island.

Big Island police are asking for the public's help in finding military commemorative and presidential coins with sentimental value stolen yesterday in a burglary of an 82-year-old man's Pepeekeo apartment. Star-Advertiser.

Molokai Properties Water Rate Hikes Finalized. Molokai Dispatch.

Abercrombie, Aiona match begins, UH fights bedbugs, state fights bee beetle, Obama supports Hanabusa, Maui candidate with criminal record allowed to run, Kauai firefighters disciplined, more news from across the state

Are Native Hawaiians getting a fair shake in our legal system? New numbers show that 40% of all prisoners in Hawaii are Native Hawaiians, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) says that's no coincidence. Hawaii News Now.

A disproportionate number of Native Hawaiians are making up a segment of the prison population, according to a new study released by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. KITV.

Native Hawaiians are treated unfairly by the criminal justice system in Hawaii, according to a report released yesterday by the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

OHA releases a damning report on the treatment of Native Hawaiians in the criminal justice system and calls out for solutions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's outnumbered Republicans recruited candidates for almost every legislative race this year, but many of them struggled to raise money or receive votes in the state's primary election. Associated Press.

President Barack Obama's political organization has sent out an undisclosed number of e-mails to Hawaii residents urging them to support Democrat Colleen Hanabusa for the 1st Congressional District seat. Associated Press.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D) and his Republican opponent for Hawai governor, Lt. Gov. James Duke Aiona (R) on Tuesday discussed their different views on how they would wean Hawaii from fossil fuel to a clean, green economy. KITV.

The Energy Expo was the first venue the democratic and republican gubernatorial candidates have both shown up at since the primary. KHON2.

Maui County Clerk Jeffrey Kuwada has dismissed a challenge to the candidacy of Elle Cochran, which claimed she was not eligible to run for office because she has a criminal record. Maui News.

Kauai County officials say disciplinary action has been taken after a Fire Department boat was used for a fishing expedition to waters along the coast of Niihau. Associated Press.

Seasonal hiring in Hawaii appears to be on the rise from a year ago as retailers prepare to boost staffing for an anticipated brisk holiday season. Star-Advertiser.

Young Brothers Ltd. on Tuesday said it was "surprised and disappointed" at the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission's decision to allow a competitor to provide interisland shipping. KITV.

Thieves stole 15 moi from a fish tank at the Waikiki Aquarium over the weekend, aquarium officials said. KITV.

One of Hawaii's most popular visitor destinations will be closed on weekday afternoons starting in November. Hawaii News Now.

State Department of Agriculture workers are searching East Hawaii farms for signs of the coffee berry borer. Meanwhile, farmers anxiously await word concerning whether the bug's arrival will spark a quarantine on Kona coffee. Tribune-Herald.

Bed bugs surface at UH-Manoa dorms and Campus Center. KHON2.

It's policy at public schools but still not practiced. Controversial locker searches are stuck in limbo – more than a year after the Hawaii Board of Education approved them - because of legal concerns, budget cuts, and a precedent-setting policy. Educators are proceeding with caution. Hawaii News Now.

After meetings spanning several months, the county Charter Review Commission on Monday fine-tuned several questions to be placed on the ballot next election. Garden Island.

A community effort to redevelop six vacant Lanakila Homes units in Hilo has foundered, and the Hawaii Public Housing Authority is going back to the drawing board. Tribune-Herald.

A 5,000-home subdivision mauka of Kaloko Industrial Area is being brought forward again. West Hawaii Today.

Three new lieutenants and seven new sergeants have a combined 140 years of service with the Kaua‘i Police Department. Garden Island.

Eat local campaign takes root, OSHA threatens to yank state oversight, hotel occupancy up, asteroid discovered, congressional campaign gets hot, APEC seeks marketing help, more Hawaii news

Localvore movement takes root in N. Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

There’s a macadamia nut shortage in Hawaii and around the world. KITV.

An asteroid that will come within 4 million miles of Earth in mid-October has been discovered by a new University of Hawaii telescope atop Haleakala on Maui. Associated Press.

A new report says hotel occupancy in Hawaii averaged 79.5 percent in July, up from 68.8 percent in July 2009. Associated Press.

Maui's hotels enjoyed an 18.1 percent jump in revenue per available room in July, according to the Hospitality Advisors report released today. Maui News.

Trying to file for unemployment got harder Monday. KHON2.

The U.S. Department of Labor is threatening to yank the state's authority to oversee safety and health in Hawaii's workplace, in light of "serious performance problems." Star-Advertiser.

A week into the general election season, ads are flying in the race for the 1st Congressional District. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Board of Education revised its Chapter 19 policy on student conduct and discipline – allowing for searches inside school lockers. But more than a year after the policy was revised, administrators have still not started the controversial inspections. Hawaii News Now.

APEC's Hawaii committee seeks marketing and communications proposals. Associated Press.

Teach for America, the competitive national program that recruits top-notch college graduates to teach in public schools, has more than quadrupled its Hawaii ranks since starting in the islands in 2006 and is looking to expand further at a time when the state needs more highly qualified teachers in hard-to-staff areas. Star-Advertiser.

Enrollment at the University of Hawaii at Hilo continues to swell, with the number of students enrolled this year topping 4,000 for the first time. Tribune-Herald.

With the passing of September’s deadline, the Molokai Veterans Caring for Veterans have entered into federal litigation against Maui County and Mayor Charmaine Tavares. Molokai Dispatch.

Civil unions may be an unspoken issue in gov race. Associated Press.

Hawaii businesses are receiving federal money to help increase renewable energy production. Associated Press.

County officials said Monday that the supervisors involved in a recent fishing trip aboard a Kaua‘i Fire Department boat off the coast of Ni‘ihau have been disciplined. Garden Island.

"Hawaii Five-O" script sparks on-line idea. Hawaii News Now.

Surf's up for the season, Abercrombie-Aiona debates set, HUD nixes two Hawaii laws, Blue Angels wow crowds, fireworks limits coming, more news from around the islands

The first big northwest swell of the season drew experienced surfers and big crowds to beaches on Oahu's north shore Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has told the state to stop applying two laws enacted by the Legislature over Gov. Linda Lingle's vetoes.  Associated Press.

Teach for America, the competitive national program that recruits top-notch college graduates to teach in public schools, has more than quadrupled its Hawaii ranks since starting in the islands in 2006 and is looking to expand further at a time when the state needs more highly qualified teachers in hard-to-staff areas. Star-Advertiser.

The world famous Blue Angels wowed the crowds one last time for the year on Sunday at the Kaneohe Bay Airshow. KHON2.

Tens of thousands of spectators crowded the flight line at Kaneohe Bay yesterday to catch the Navy's Blue Angels, an Air Force F-22 Raptor and other high-flying acts. Star-Advertiser.

Roberts Hawaii, the state's largest tours and transportation company, has seen a spike in fatal collisions recently, making up 40 percent of all fatal commercial vehicle collisions so far this year and 30 percent last year. Star-Advertiser.

Acting Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Friday that he expects to sign into law a bill that limits fireworks -- passed by the City Council on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Plans to sell some unused city park land in Haleiwa brought out dozens of protesters Saturday. KITV.

The Coast Guard reports crew members of the cutter Ahi have helped free a sea turtle that was entangled in a net. Associated Press.

In the space of a year, the state's consumer protection agency sanctioned a total of 18 Big Island businesses. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii businesses are receiving federal money to help increase renewable energy production. Associated Press.

OC16 will broadcast a live debate between former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona in their campaign for governor on Oct. 20. Star-Advertiser.

After a week of behind-the-scenes negotiations, former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona have committed to several debates and forums in the campaign for governor. Star-Advertiser.

On Saturday, the leaders of Maui's Democratic and Republican parties expressed confidence in their candidates who face each other in every state House and Senate contest. Maui News.

On Kaua‘i, out of the 39,790 registered voters, just 17,206, or 43.2 percent, of voters cast primary votes. Garden Island.

Rail’s Direction Hinges on New City Leadership. Civil Beat.

Maui County Council Member Gladys Baisa remarked that the Maui Tropical Plantation "looked like the county fair" on Saturday afternoon as Jesse Spencer gave a public presentation under a massive tent on his proposed affordable housing development down the highway mauka of Maalaea. Maui News.

It is equally refreshing and startling when a state manager declares his team’s supervision of a popular public resource has not been very good. Garden Island.

If you haven’t noticed, there have been a few new changes at our water store in town. Molokai News.

It's not everyday you see alpacas grazing the slopes of Mauna Kea. West Hawaii Today.

The Coast Guard reports crew members of the cutter Ahi have helped free a sea turtle that was entangled in a net. Associated Press.

 

More qualify for food stamps, Molokai utilities too cheap, Hawaiian airlines Japan flights picking up, judge refuses to disqualify candidate, while another candidate faces new disqualification lawsuit, more

A study of erosion hazards at city beach parks on Oahu found crumbling seawalls, disappearing beaches and parks facilities threatened with destruction. KITV.

Kyo-Ya Hotels and Resorts -- the parent company of Sheraton and Starwood in Hawaii -- wants to spend 700 million dollars rebuilding portions of the Princess Kaiulani and Moana Surfrider hotels. KHON2.

Enrollment dipped at the University of Hawaii's flagship Manoa campus this fall but increased at the nine other UH campuses, pushing overall fall enrollment to a record high of 60,231 students, for a 3.6 percent increase over last year's previous record. Star-Advertiser.
l
Hawaiian Airlines has received authorization from Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism to operate new international service to Japan. Associated Press

Castle & Cooke Homes won state approval yesterday for the bulk of its proposed Koa Ridge community, concluding a more than decade-long effort for the contentious project between Mililani and Waipio. Star-Advertiser.

A developer wants to buy unused city park land from the city in Haleiwa and build a replica of the turn-of-the-century Haleiwa Hotel. KITV.

They don't have a lot of money but nearly 200 people at a low-income housing complex in Liliha are facing a rent hike. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawaii state government is being honored for supporting its employees who also serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Associated Press.

Hawaii delegation splits over small business credit bill. Associated Press.

The income limit for people qualifying for the state's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, will rise from 130 percent of the federal poverty level to 200 percent, the maximum allowable under federal guidelines. West Hawaii Today.

The state Public Utilities Commission has approved an annual revenue increase of $548,682, or 126.5 percent, for Molokai Public Utilities Inc. Associated Press.

A Big Island company that plans to put macadamia nut shells to good use is getting a federal boost. KHON2.

It has been three years in the planning and now it is finally in place. The vertical axis wind turbine is close to being operational. KITV.

Maui Land & Pineapple Co. will sell its Bay Course at Kapalua to TY Management Corp. for $23.6 million and lease it back to continue to operate the links until March 31. Maui News.

The county Department of Water has more system-improvement projects happening now than all the other counties combined, said David Craddick, DOW manager and chief engineer. Garden Island.

Republican gubernatorial candidate James "Duke" Aiona promised supporters Wednesday evening in Kailua-Kona that his administration, if elected Nov. 2, will not raise taxes for Hawaii residents. West Hawaii Today.

Despite the efforts of conservative Christian groups to defeat candidates who support Hawaii civil unions, top opponents of House Bill 444 suffered losses in Saturday's primary. Civil Beat.

A second-place finish in Saturday's primary election and demands from constituents have prompted Ka'u Councilman Guy Enriques to end his months-long media silence. Tribune-Herald.

Two downtown voters are suing to disqualify David S.Y. Chang, the Republican candidate for the state House's 28th District, from the upcoming general election. Star-Advertiser.

A Second Circuit Court judge threw out the challenge to Maui County Council Chairman Danny Mateo’s candidacy last week, saying he didn’t have authority to rule on the case. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii losing trade winds, NYT blasts state for ignoring human trafficking case, jobless rate down, good place for young people to live, bad place to drive and other top island news

Whether it was the result of curiosity, nostalgic loyalty or the millions of dollars CBS spent on promotion, the network premiere Monday night of the new "Hawaii Five-0" was a hit. Star-Advertiser.

Trade winds are a big reason we call Hawaii paradise. But a new study by the Hawaii Climate Office has documented a significant drop in the frequency of trade winds -- enough that the state climatologist said he is very concerned. KITV.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports Hawaii had one of the nation's largest over-the-month percentage decreases in employment in August. Associated Press.

In an Ugly Human-Trafficking Case, Hawaii Forgets Itself. New York Times.

A former state Department of Labor inspector is facing charges that he used other people's names personal information to verify inspections he didn't perform. Star-Advertiser.

The state says changes are on the way to the food stamp program. KHON2.

Honolulu has been named one of America's best communities for young people by America's Promise Alliance, a group committed to reducing high school dropout rates and promoting safer environments for young people. Hawaii News Now.

Two reports released in September rank roads in Hawaii among the worst in the nation. Hawaii News Now.

City Council members will try today to pass a consumer fireworks law for Oahu that falls short of a complete ban. Star-Advertiser

The first election in a three-election pilot program judging the impact of public campaign funding on Hawaii County Council races is showing mixed results. West Hawaii Today.

Two Hawaii legislators don't have to give up their current positions as they campaign for higher office. Associated Press.

Even before Saturday's primary election, many activists had already turned their attention to a constitutional amendment on the Nov. 2 general election ballot. Civil Beat.

Ever wonder why blank ballots on Hawaii's constitutional amendments count as "no" votes? We did, too. Civil Beat.

Hawaii gov. candidates begin fall short on funding. Associated Press.

The Republican Party's plan to sit back and watch Hawaii Democrats tear themselves apart in the gubernatorial primary has already failed, said Neil Abercrombie. Tribune-Herald.

In their first joint news conference at Honolulu Hale, acting Mayor Kirk Caldwell welcomed Mayor-elect Peter Carlisle to promote a successful changing of the guard, but the very office in which they stood, quickly became a source of tension. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Democrats know a thing or two about unity, Democratic House of Representative candidate Colleen Hanabusa said Monday. West Hawaii Today.

A former Hawaii Navy family has received an $11 million settlement after a daughter suffered permanent brain damage when she was delivered by young and inexperienced Tripler Army Medical Center doctors who put the newborn through "a series of egregious medical errors," the family's lawyers said yesterday. Star-Advertiser.

More than 5,000 job seekers from across the state filtered into the Neal Blaisdell Center on Tuesday for a job fair with more than 160 different employers present. KITV.

The annual "Get the Drift and Bag It" event gets under way Saturday with a partnership aimed at cleaning Maui's coastal areas. Maui News.

A proposal to build a new community on the Big Island is aimed at creating affordable housing, much needed jobs and more importantly schools where every child goes to college. KHON2.

South Maui County Council Member Wayne Nishiki and challenger Don Couch split 38 Maui County precincts, taking 19 each, and tied in one in their primary election day contest. Maui News.

Dr. Rebecca “Becky” Rhoades confirmed Tuesday that she stepped down last week as the long-time executive director of the Kaua‘i Humane Society. Garden Island.

Personal income hardly up, Carlisle settles in, competition coming to interisland transport, more election analyses and other Hawaii news

The Public Utilities Commission is allowing newcomer Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines to expand its service to the neighbor islands. Young Brothers fought Pasha's entry into the market. KITV.

The state gave Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines LLC the go-ahead yesterday to begin an interisland shipping business that will challenge Young Bros. Ltd.'s decades-old regulated monopoly. Star-Advertiser.

Several longtime Hawaii politicians are out of work following the state's primary election, but not because of widespread voter discontent seen in other parts of the country. Associated Press.

Further analysis of district-by-district returns reveals the mathematical relationships between candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, mayor and prosecutor. Civil Beat.

Republican gubernatorial candidate James "Duke" Aiona is pressing his Democratic rival to accept his plan for six, hour-long debates beginning Friday. Associated Press.

90,000 primary votes for Mufi Hannemann were nowhere near enough to beat Neil Abercrombie who came away the Democratic nominee. KHON2.

The contest between Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann was no contest on the Big Island. Tribune-Herald.

After a dominating win in Saturday's primary election, Sunday was reserved for congratulations and "unification" for Democrats behind their new gubernatorial nominee, former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie. Maui News.

Former television reporter Ramsay Wharton is conceding the race for the GOP nomination for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District. Associated Press.

Honolulu's newly elected mayor says he hopes his transition into office will be a "gentle" one, Peter Carlisle told KITV4 News on Monday. KITV.

Carlisle to decide on city and county jobs based on new expectations. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Charmaine Tavares managed to edge out former Mayor Alan Arakawa by 268 votes for a first-place finish in Saturday's primary election. Maui News.

Personal income rose modestly in Hawaii in the second quarter, but the increase was among the smallest in the nation, according to a new report. Star-Advertiser.

Fall is the season of the shearwaters, and this fall these native seabirds are getting the attention they deserve. Star-Advertiser.

Several Ha‘ena landowners who received permits to build their dream homes signed an agreement long ago stating that no commercial activity would take place there. Garden Island.

Despite all the political changes, the city is continuing the work to prepare for rail. Hawaii News Now.

One tune was stuck in William Hardisty's head during the fourth annual Parade and Festival for the United Nations International Day of Peace in Honokaa. It played repeatedly as he helped prepare the Hamakua Youth Center's float and then when he marched down Mamane Street. West Hawaii Today.

Although not always visible, the fresh spring-fed waters of Loko o Mokuhinia are still flowing, and archeological work to restore Moku‘ula to its former glory is progressing one spoonful at a time. Lahaina News.

Money doesn't equal win in primary races, GOP wants term limits, parties patch divides, voter turnout high, more election news

The day after a bruising primary campaign, gubernatorial rivals Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann put aside their primary rivalry and greeted each other warmly Sunday at the Hawaii Democratic Party's Unity Breakfast. Hawaii News Now.

Emotions ran high as Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann joined forces at the Hawaii Democratic Party’s post-election unity breakfast on Sunday. KITV.

The word "unity" doesn't spring to mind when thinking of Mufi Hannemann and Neil Abercrombie. Civil Beat.

Former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie tapped into a reservoir of support among traditional Democrats in his primary victory on Saturday but also did remarkably well in regions that often favor independents and conservatives. Star-Advertiser.

Democratic candidate Neil Abercrombie's domination spanned all counties except Kauai. It was a blowout. KITV.

The cheering started early at the old Comp USA building on Ala Moana Boulevard well before the first print-out was released. But when it was, the intensity in the room rose to a different level. KHON2.

Having the most money didn’t prove to be an advantage in the state’s major primary races. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii Republicans gathered in a show of unity and to unveil a legislative action plan outlining their proposals to improve Hawaii's economy, education and government. KITV.

The state Republican Party is proposing term limits for state legislators and a rule requiring that a supermajority in the state House approve all tax hikes. Associated Press.

The 42.8 percent of registered voters who cast ballots for Saturday's primary election exceeded the turnout in the last two primary elections.Star-Advertiser.

With 39 of 40 precincts reporting late Saturday night, Maui County turnout was only 34.2 percent. Maui News.

Lynda Goin has made it a point to cast her ballot every election year. This year was no different. West Hawaii Today.

A mapping error has led 370 voters on Maui to be assigned to the wrong election district. Associated Press.

 Democrat Brian Schatz and Republican Lynn Finnegan emerged victorious Saturday night from a big field of lieutenant gubernatorial candidates. West Hawaii Today.

While Hawaii's gubernatorial race and several Big Island County Council seats were hotly contested, eight candidates for state House of Representatives seats cruised on through to November unopposed. Tribune-Herald.

Incumbent Rep. Cindy Evans will face Republican Scott "Hendo" Henderson for the 7th House District representing South Kona and North Kohala. Tribune-Herald.

It was a virtual dead heat after early election returns, but Rep. Faye Hanohano is her party's choice for the 4th state House District. Tribune-Herald.

Democratic state House Reps. Joe Souki and Joe Bertram III easily fended off primary election challenges Saturday night. Maui News.

Former city prosecutor Peter Carlisle bested a field of three other candidates to win the Honolulu mayor's race.Hawaii News Now.

With just two years in office before facing the voters for re-election, Mayor-elect Peter Carlisle is focusing on short-term goals for his new administration. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua‘i voters lined up largely behind Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. in Saturday’s primary election. Garden Island.

The University of Hawaii will sweeten a legislative funding request to restore about $50 million in state cuts by making a portion of the appropriation contingent on meeting key outcomes. Star-Advertiser.

When the Kekaha shrimp farm was in full operation several years ago, ocean currents dispersed millions of gallons of shrimp-smelling wastewater that the company dumped daily near the shore. Garden Island.

It's Neil! And all the updated results from yesterday's elections. (7:30 a.m. printout)

Official 7:30 a.m. printout from the state Office of Elections, here.

Three newspapers' takes on the Democratic rally

One of the most bitter Democratic races for governor in decades drew to a close last night at the simple Mooheau bandstand in downtown Hilo with rivals Neil Abercrombie and Mufi Hannemann searching for common ground. Star-Advertiser.


Hawaii Democrats from around the state, gathering Friday evening for one last hurrah before the primary, pledged party unity with varying degrees of sincerity as they shared the stage with their intraparty rivals. West Hawaii Today.


Democrats urged unity among their divided ranks at the traditional Grand Rally in Hilo on the eve of today's primary election. Tribune-Herald.

Photo album: Scenes from Hawaii Democratic Party Friday evening rally in Hilo

Hundreds of supporters for all the candidates crowd the Mooheau bandstand in Hilo Friday evening

Gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann hoists a young supporter

Gubernatorial candidate Neil Abercrombie greets roadside supporters

Executive Committee member Chuck Freedman confabs with local kingmaker George Yokoyama

Tribune-Herald reporter Peter Sur meeting deadline

Star-bulletin political columnist Richard Borreca getting the scoop

Puna County Councilwoman Emily Naeole-Beason

Hawaii County Democratic Party Chairman Steve Pavao

Gay lawmaker targeted, Family Forum lobbies too much, Kenoi defies party neutrality, Matson expands, Hawaiian Airlines threatened, meth prosecutions up, no more big money for Hannemann, more Hawaii news

Hawaii Family Forum, a Christian charity that helped lead the fight against civil unions, spent so much money politicking last year that it had to pay the IRS $20,741 in taxes for its "excessive lobbying," according to its latest tax return. Star-Advertiser.

Christian Conservatives Target Gay Lawmaker. A group called the Aloha Family Alliance this week sent out thousands of fliers showing two men in black suits embracing, about to kiss. They appear to be getting married. KITV.

Early walk-in voting for the primary election ended today with a big turnout across the islands. KHON2.

Thousands of voters across the state decided to cast their ballots early this year. Hawaii News Now.

After a bitter campaign marked by mudslinging and contentious divisions over race, religion and gay rights, two longtime political rivals in Hawaii meet in a primary Saturday to decide which Democrat will try to recapture the governor's seat from Republican hands after eight years. Associated Press.

Mazie Hirono and Ed Case could not do it in the Democratic primary for governor in 2002. Daniel Akaka and Case did not do it in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate in 2006. Political analysts wonder whether former U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann have the ability to drive voter turnout tomorrow in the Democratic primary for governor. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's endorsement of gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann in a contested primary race goes against the Democratic Party's neutrality philosophy, party leaders said. Tribune-Herald.

Gubernatorial candidate Mufi Hannemann today offered an idea to promote University of Hawaii sports in Asia as an option to the Western Athletic Conference dilemma. KITV.

Reports have been filed with the campaign spending commission detailing what's called "late contributions" since September 3. KHON2.

Mufi Hannemann's campaign for governor said yesterday it didn't receive any contributions exceeding $500 during a 10-day period leading up to tomorrow's Democratic primary election against Neil Abercrombie. Star-Advertiser.

Challengers to incumbent 8th District House Rep. Joe Souki say they have a fresh and young perspective that deserve voter consideration over the incumbent's 28 years of experience. Maui News.

Acting Mayor Kirk Caldwell, who leads all mayoral candidates in fundraising, picked up an additional $68,000 over the past two weeks as he makes a final push to defeat former Prosecutor Peter Carlisle, who began the race with a sizable lead in polls over all contenders. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands more Hawaii residents fell into poverty last year, driving up the rate here to its highest level since 1997, Census Bureau figures released yesterday show. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Linda Lingle today announced state Department of Transportation (DOT) Director Brennon Morioka has accepted a job as executive vice president of Shioi Construction, Inc., in Pearl City.  His last day at the DOT will be Thursday, Sept. 23.  KHON2.

Matson Navigation Co. has initiated its expanded China service with a second five-ship port rotation that will double the ocean shipper's trade between that country and California. Star-Advertiser.

For the second time in three weeks the state has fined the city $140,000 for "willfully violating" state law at one of its wastewater treatment facilities. KHON2.

It’s official: the names of City & County of Honolulu employees are a matter of public record — not just their salaries and job titles. Civil Beat.

The FBI says a telephone bomb threat forced the delay of a Hawaiian Airlines flight out of Los Angeles. Associated Press.

North Shore brush fire appears intentionally set. Hawaii News Now.

The company securing a $26 million bond to cover the cost of constructing the Mamalahoa bypass appears to have enough cash reserves to cover the obligation, Corporation Counsel Lincoln Ashida said. West Hawaii Today.

County prosecutors are batting a thousand in terms of convictions in methamphetamine, other-drug and career-criminal cases, said Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho, prosecuting attorney. Garden Island.

The wife of state Sen. Fred Hemmings has been sentenced to one year probation. Associated Press.

Although not always visible, the fresh spring-fed waters of Loko o Mokuhinia are still flowing, and archeological work to restore Moku‘ula to its former glory is progressing one spoonful at a time.  Lahaina News.

Mango is called the King of Fruits for good reason. Molokai Dispatch.