Hawaii tax changes stall, federal housing funds dry up, Hawaii County advances impact fees, Native Hawaiian recognition process begins, cleaning up Waikiki, Kauai to open new campground, more news from the islands

Native Hawaiian rally (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Former Gov. Waihee will lead a new commission charged with preparing and maintaining a roll of qualified Native Hawaiians that would work toward the reorganization of a native government. Star-Advertiser.

A federal appeals court has ruled that the state Department of Education violated federal law when it denied special assistance to a dyslexic public school student. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers will have to wait an extra year to get advice on the state's tax structure. Civil Beat.

The sun apparently doesn't shine too brightly at the Department of Taxation. Civil Beat.

At the end of the year, Hawaii no longer will receive more than $6 million in federal stimulus money aimed at preventing 5,000 people from joining the circuit of homeless people who continuously migrate around the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Republican congressional candidate former Rep. Charles Djou is scheduled to leave Friday for a six-month deployment to Afghanistan. KITV4.

There is enough information on people living temporarily in Hawaii who likely vote elsewhere to exclude them when redrawing the state's election district boundaries. Star-Advertiser.

Board of Education Chairman Don Horner said in testimony Thursday he was "very surprised" when the executive board of the teachers union unanimously rejected in June a "last, best and final" offer that included wage reductions and higher medical premiums. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii residents can expect to see costs cut for home insurance next year but no one knows exactly how much premiums will drop. KITV4.

Oahu

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting on O’ahu is less than 60 days away … and the finishing touches on more than 137 million dollars of infrastructure upgrades are under way. Hawaii Public Radio.

Impressed and comforted.Those were two words that members of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation used after hearing from the company selected to build the City and County of Honolulu’s rail car system. Pacific Business News.

The developer of a regional mall in East Kapolei — similar in size to Pearlridge Center — plans to break ground in July and open the first phase in 2014. Star-Advertiser.

14 months after union hotel workers’ contract with Hyatt Hotels expired, workers have walked off the job at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki. Those workers join thousands of others in Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, in a week-long strike. Hawaii Independent.

The Hawaiian Humane Society is seeking full custody of the more than 200 dogs seized from an alleged puppy farm in Waimanalo. KHON2.

As the 10th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks draws near, Hawaii News Now takes a look at the many changes that have taken place at Hawaii's airports to improve safety for travelers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

The cost of building a new home or business would increase under an impact fee bill advanced by a County Council committee Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

The seventh time proved the charm Thursday, when the County Council Planning Committee finally advanced an impact fee bill. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council wants the state Legislature to come up with a more practical solution to electronic waste recycling than requiring neighbor island residents to mail their old televisions and computers to Honolulu. West Hawaii Today.


An anonymous mother and child who collected a $7 million legal settlement from Kamehameha Schools in 2007 will remain unidentified even when they testify in a Hilo trial next month over the schools’ demand for return of $2 million. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has nominated Kailua-Kona resident Lei Kihoi, 66, to the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission. Tribune-Herald.

The hunt for unexploded military ordnance continues Friday at the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

A private Mainland-based company is conducting the “compliance audit” of a Maui public housing project plagued by chronic vacancies and overdue repair work. Hawaii Reporter.

Because more and more of Maui's sandy shorelines are being "impaired" by development and uncontrollable environmental issues, laws and procedures to protect the environment must be followed, county and state officials said Wednesday morning. Maui News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie joined state education and lawmakers and Maui County officials Wednesday in ceremonially turning shovels full of dirt to break ground for the $37.1 million Pu'u Kukui Elementary School. Maui News.

Kauai

In a meeting filled with strong opinions, the County Council on Wednesday approved by a 5-2 vote the opening of Lydgate Beach Park campgrounds to the public. Garden Island.

A Na Pali area camper says he witnessed an abandoned sailboat break apart on Kalalau Beach, but officials say there is no sign of the vessel. Garden Island.

Hawaii lawmakers, officials not disclosing gifts, Gov. Abercrombie wants subpoena quashed in teacher union case, Big Island seeks 2% land fund, homeless Oahu family gets one-way trip, Waikiki Hyatt workers on strike, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Parker Ranch statue (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Parker Ranch has joined several other large Hawaii landowners applying to preserve agricultural land in perpetuity under a 3-year-old law that qualifies them for state benefits including tax credits. Star-Advertiser.

Two dozen pricey DVD sets given to Hawaii lawmakers this year are unaccounted for. Civil Beat.

A deputy attorney general asked the Hawaii Labor Relations Board on Wednesday to quash subpoenas issued to Gov. Neil Abercrombie and six prominent state lawmakers in the teachers union's challenge against the state over a new contract. Star-Advertiser.

The atmosphere in recent negotiations between the state and teachers union was largely businesslike and friendly, and union negotiators never said they felt "intimidated" about making a deal, Board of Education member Jim Williams said in testimony Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Neil Abercrombie will announce his appointments to the Native Hawaiian Roll Commission on September 8 at 12:15 p.m. Hawaii Reporter.

Fall enrollment in the University of Hawaii System has increased slightly to a record 60,519 students. KITV4.

A new federal program aims to reduce harassment of wild dolphins by Hawaii tour boats while promoting responsible viewing. KHON2.

Oahu

When the City Council holds a public meeting on Friday, September 16, one of the items on the agenda is Resolution 11-229, which authorizes the use of “overt video monitoring” at and around the events of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting in Honolulu. Hawaii Independent

The Honolulu Planning Commission was split Wednesday over a bill that the city administration had hoped would help it crack down on illegal vacation rentals. Civil Beat.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation will hear directly from executives of Ansaldo Honolulu Joint Venture regarding the company’s financial situation and other issues at a meeting set for Thursday morning. Pacific Business News.

An event was conducted today on O’ahu to help homeless veterans for the first time in more than a decade. Hawaii Public Radio.


A homeless family of three is getting a fresh start thanks to some anonymous donors and the efforts of a state lawmaker and a homeless advocacy group. Hawaii News Now.

The median sales prices for Oahu homes and condos decreased last month, while the number of sales were up. Associated Press.

Unionized Hyatt Regency Waikiki workers went on a week-long strike this morning. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council Finance Committee on Wednesday supported giving voters one more chance to put a 2 percent land fund in the county charter. West Hawaii Today.

Kamehameha Schools' civil trial against a Big Island family that received a $7 million out-of-court settlement from the educational trust has been put on hold. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Community College continues to experience growing pains as increased demand meets facility limitations. Tribune-Herald.

The fair's back in town, but this time, it's in a slightly different location. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service would take over management of Molokini under a proposal included in a draft 15-year conservation plan that also covers Kealia Pond and the Kakahai'a national wildlife refuges in South Maui and on Molokai. Maui News.

Rents at a Maui affordable housing project must be lowered and dozens of units that have been vacant for months and years must be occupied within 30 days, according to state Rep. Angus McKelvey. Hawaii Reporter.

The Maui County Urban Design Review Board recommended approval of plans for a new Iglesia Ni Cristo, or Church of Christ, on Tuesday and decided the changes made after an earlier meeting were mostly acceptable. Maui News.

Kauai

Representatives of several organizations, some already working as community service sites with the judicial system, attended a Monday meeting to consider partnering with a new comprehensive diversion program. Garden Island.

Civil unions coming to Hawaii, new taxes boost revenue forecast, state tops nation in teen suicide attempts, new BOE flexes muscle, Kauai food bank fight continues, Maui flights boost tourism, Big Island crime patterns change, more news

Honolulu gay rights rally (c) All Hawaii News

The state Department of Health expects to issue the first licenses for civil unions by Dec. 3, with the expressed, written understanding that the authorizations would not take effect until Jan. 1. Star-Advertiser.

The State Council on Revenues raised its projections today for General Fund tax collections this year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii's economy is expected to grow slowly, despite the overall dreary financial outlook from economists. KITV4.

At a Tuesday meeting Hawaii’s Council on Revenues projected substantial growth to the state's general fund for the next several years, but much of that is due to tax increases passed by state lawmakers, not a strengthening economy. KHON2.

Hawaii high school students had the highest self-reported prevalence of seriously considering suicide, making a plan and attempting suicide in the nation. They also had the third highest rate of being sad or hopeless. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii health officials are sponsoring events statewide to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Week. Associated Press.

The public will have the chance to voice their opinion on the possible closure of several Hawaii post offices starting Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

The question of whether the media should be able to live blog from a federal court trial in Hawaii is again up for debate. Civil Beat.

State health officials responded more quickly to the swine flu and SARS viruses because of techniques and equipment developed after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, but modern-day priorities mean they are less focused on monitoring Hawaii’s milk supply and tracking diseases such as tuberculosis. Honolulu Advertiser.

A group of retired military leaders who drew attention last year with its claim that overweight children are a threat to national security, are now targeting Hawaii's obesity rates. Associated Press.

Hawaii's Board of Education members promised culture change during their confirmation hearings earlier this year, and barely more than four months later, it's clear that they're already bringing it. Civil Beat.

Students get reprimanded for turning in an incomplete report and today so did the Department of Education. Hawaii News Now.

Home sales on Hawaii island and Kauai rose or remained unchanged in August compared with a year earlier while prices mostly declined, according to the latest report from Hawaii Information Service. Star-Advertiser.

Against a backdrop of local slowing and deteriorating conditions in the U.S. and global economy, Hawaii will see only modest growth in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

Seven species of Native Hawaiian bees will be placed on the endangered species list. KHON2.

Oahu

The city began notifying groups early on this year that permits for events in November could be rejected because of the security surrounding the upcoming economic summit. KITV4.

The Board of Education wants a better study before taking a possible elementary school closure to a public hearing. KHON2.

The state Board of Education wants more information on the impacts of closing Likelike Elementary in Kalihi before the cost-saving proposal is taken to the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

The Big Island's fastest-growing district has experienced a double-digit drop in crime. Tribune-Herald.

The instances of murder, rape and robbery in West Hawaii increased last year compared to 2009. West Hawaii Today.

Land preservation proponents today will begin the long process of trying to get a 2 percent land fund amendment on the ballot -- again. West Hawaii Today.

State Department of Land and Natural Resources staff is recommending approval of a month's worth of high-altitude helicopter training on the slopes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa for Army pilots and crews deploying to Afghanistan in January. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Maui has been getting a whole bunch of direct nonstop flights that will go a long way toward helping carry the economic momentum the Valley Isle has been seeing for much of the last year. Pacific Business News.

This summer, seven high school students experienced what it is like to be a doctor as they made rounds with physicians at the hospital, witnessed surgeries and even dealt with dying patients. Maui News.

The National Marine Fisheries Service has scheduled hearings this month in Kaunakakai and Kihei to gather public input on a draft programmatic environmental impact statement for its plans to help the recovery of the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. Maui News.

Fire officials say arson is the cause of a fire that broke out at the Maui Drug Court Office Tuesday morning. KHON2.

Kauai

In recent weeks, Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank in Lihu‘e has been fending off a flurry of accusations made by an O‘ahu food bank official. A central allegation is that KIFB charges a steep service fee while Hawai‘i Food Bank does not. Garden Island.

County prosecutors are concerned that marijuana legalization advocates may influence state legislative decisions because those advocates are well organized and more active than their opponents. Garden Island.

Honolulu mayor says homeless worse than rats, DOE mulls school closure, Hirono visits Maui, Kauai, APEC holds photo contest, Hawaii reapportionment plans public, more news from all the Hawaii Islands

Abel Lui (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A state panel sympathetic to Native Hawaiians living on a disputed Kawaa Bay parcel is assuming oversight as battles rage in court over ownership and access rights. West Hawaii Today.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation is holding a photo contest open to all photographers living in any of the communities participating in APEC. KHON2.

This year, 15 pedestrians have died on Hawaii roads, 12 of them on Oahu. Two were on Maui, and one was on Hawaii island. Star-Advertiser.

With just one Hawaii high school reaching the high proficiency benchmarks set under the federal No Child Left Behind law this year, administrators are turning to the accreditation process to provide parents a better understanding of whether their schools are making the grade. Star-Advertiser.

The state agreed to 10 "concessions" in its effort to get the Hawaii teachers union to agree to a "last, best and final" offer that included pay cuts and furloughs. Civil Beat.

Against a backdrop of local slowing and deteriorating conditions in the U.S. and global economy, Hawaii will see only modest growth in 2012. Hawaii Reporter.

The Hawaiian monk seal — the nation's most imperiled marine mammal — is on the verge of getting its own emergency room. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu's homeless problem is so troublesome that Mayor Peter Carlisle says it's worse than a rat infestation.. Civil Beat.

After state officials evicted the homeless who took refuge under the freeway viaduct, the squatters moved across the street. KITV4.

Likelike Elementary School is the latest Hawaii public school that could be closed in order to save the state money. Hawaii News Now.

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. That’s what Bombardier Transportation    (Holdings) USA is doing as it attempts to win the core systems contract for City and County of Honolulu’s $5.3 billion rail project. Pacific Business News.

Now that it has decided to include various nonresident populations in the overall population base, the City Council Reapportionment Commission is preparing to draw its new set of political boundaries for Oahu's nine Council districts. Star-Advertiser.

A City Council Reapportionment Commission meeting takes place on Wednesday, September 7 in Honolulu Hale. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

Honeybees. They're responsible for pollinating one-third of the food we eat, but could humans be putting them in peril with the pesticides we use? West Hawaii Today.

Three Puna roads stand to receive a combined $450,000 face-lift that won't cost local taxpayers a dime. Tribune-Herald.

The Keaukaha Panaewa Farmers Association hopes to spark that revolution with the opening of its Hawaiian Farmers Market. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono brought together about two dozen experts recently to help island residents facing the prospect of losing their homes to lenders or their life savings to scam artists. Maui News.

The Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce presented its third annual Ko'i Awards on Friday evening to three Mauians and a business for showing excellence in leadership, diligence in action and responsibility to their native community. Maui News.

Kauai

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono says the president will speak to Congress on Thursday to make a bipartisan effort to move the economy. Garden Island.

The 21st annual Hawai‘i International Tropical Fruit Conference kicks off Friday on the Big Island and continues with consecutive “After the Conference” gatherings on Kaua‘i, O‘ahu and Maui. Garden Island.

A project on Kauai is paying tribute to victims of the 9/11 attacks by encouraging acts of kindness. Associated Press.

Molokai

Molokai public schools have joined many in the state participating in a program that aims to raise students’ test scores. Hawaii Public Radio.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking comments on a draft conservation plan for Molokai’s Kakahai`a National Wildlife Refuge. Molokai Dispatch.

Japan gives Hawaii GMO papaya industry big boost, state tops nation for workplace meth, radiation worries at Kaneohe Bay, Big island power plant advances, DLNR scolded by Army Corps over boat dock, Kona coffee deal reached, Maui taking flowers stateside, Kaui leads state in economic growth, more Hawaii news

Hilo farmers market (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The Japanese government has approved the commercial import of genetically modified papayas from Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Japanese consumers will likely be seeing genetically modified papayas on their grocery shelves beginning in December. West Hawaii Today.

There was no tsunami warning issued for Hawaii following a large earthquake that hit near Alaska Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's economic recovery is turning out to be weaker than previously thought, leaving the state in a vulnerable position as the U.S. and global economies continue to slow, according to a forecast released by a group of University of Hawaii economists.Star-Advertiser.

Hawai’i was a beneficiary of Congressional Earmarks for decades …receiving 200-to-300 million dollars a year in dedicated federal funding. Hawaii Public Radio.

A new study shows Hawaii leads the nation for methamphetamine use in the workforce. Associated Press.

Hawaii ranks 29th worst for the condition of its roads in rural areas and 16th worst for the condition of its bridges. Hawaii Reporter.

A bipartisan showing of Maui political leaders appealed to members of the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission on Wednesday to give greater representation to the Neighbor Islands as the panel draws election maps. Maui News.

The Public Land Development Corporation and its Public Lands Optimization Plan, despite the unfortunate acronym of PLOP, seems to be embraced by State officials who are looking to generate revenue through the commercial development of public lands in Hawaii through public-private partnerships. Hawaii Independent.

One Hawaii lawmaker learned the hard way how far you can go in using your public office for private business when state Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo put a stop to an email fundraiser. Civil Beat.

Federal officials are asking the community to actively participate in a plan that could shape the efforts to save the highly endangered Hawaiian monk seal, whose estimated population of 1,300 to 1,400 keeps declining about 4.5 percent a year. Garden Island.

Oahu

Former state Sen. Robert "Bobby" Bunda has been tapped to fill the 10th seat on the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation's board of directors. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning months away from breaking ground. KHON2.

Local environmentalist Carroll Cox is raising concerns about the lack of public notification of what the Marine Corps revealed Thursday was a "low level" radiation release in the March crash of a CH-53D Sea Stallion helicopter on the Kaneohe Bay sandbar that killed a crewmember and injured three others. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly one year after Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle was elected, he says he's proudest of getting the city's finances in order. And he has big dreams for a billion-dollar rainy day fund to ensure the city's financial future. Civil Beat.

Waikiki Hotel Employees Claim Threats, Intimidation. KITV4.

Hawaii

Safeway has agreed to change the label on packages of Kona coffee blend sold in mainland stores in response to concerns from Hawaii farmers that it didn't provide information about what percentage of the famous bean it contains. Associated Press.

The company planning to open a wood-burning power plant in Pepeekeo has received a key permit that incorporates the federal government's request for tougher emission limits. Tribune-Herald.

Almost half of the Big Island's children were exposed to alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use while in the womb, researchers report. West Hawaii Today.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Thursday told the state Department of Land and Natural Resources to quit working on the Poihiki boat ramp until it gets a permit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The nonprofit East Maui Animal Refuge is hoping to regain federal and state permits to accept sick, injured and orphaned wildlife, after its federal wildlife rehabilitation permit was suspended Monday when agents seized 17 birds from the Haiku facility, said Executive Director Sylvan Schwab. Maui News.

The Maui County Office of Economic Development has announced that it has purchased ten booths at the Philadelphia International Flower Show, held from March 4 to 11. Hawaii Independent.

Kauai

Despite losing the most during the recession, Kauai is showing the strongest job growth among Hawaii’s Neighbor Island counties, according to a forecast by economist Leroy Laney. Pacific Business News.

Recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Electronic Benefits Transfer programs will be able to shop at four farmers markets and sunshine markets, starting this weekend. Garden Island.

The military says an interceptor missile failed to shoot down its intended target during a test off the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Associated Press.

Military on the move, sex ed pushed for Hawaii schools, OHA seeks new head, fishermen worry about monk seal plan, Hawaiian Airline interisland bag fees rise, Mazie, Mufi campaign, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

USS Russell courtesy photo

The Pearl Harbor-based guided-missile destroyer USS Russell will leave today for an independent deployment to the Western Pacific and Middle East, the Navy announced today. Star-Advertiser.

The mostly citizen soldiers of Company C, 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment are shipping out today for a yearlong deployment that will take them first to Texas for six weeks of training and then to war-torn Iraq. Tribune-Herald.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono sees herself as an advocate for Hawaii's people, calling herself an effective legislator who can represent the state's interest in the U.S. Senate. West Hawaii Today.

Although he lives in urban Honolulu, former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann said he has the experience, familiarity with and affinity for the Neighbor Islands that would allow him to well serve residents in Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District. Maui News.

Several fishing enthusiasts, along with state Rep. John Mizuno, said Wednesday they will ask federal officials to delay any decision to expand the critical habitat for monk seals or to relocate monk seal pups to the main Hawaiian Islands as part of a three-year conservation recovery program. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is expected to replace longtime Administrator and Chief Executive Officer Clyde Namuo within the next 12 months. Star-Advertiser.


Nominations are being sought for seats on the University of Hawaii Board of Regents. Associated Press.

The state didn't return to talks after the Hawaii State Teachers Association's board unanimously rejected a "last, best and final" offer because union negotiators withdrew their support for the deal and the state believed it would have to restart discussions at square one, Board of Education member Jim Williams testified Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Planned Parenthood, the ACLU and other groups want to turn sex education in public schools from elective to mandatory. KITV4.

After facing its first losing quarter in three years Hawaiian Airlines has raised its fee for luggage on interisland flights. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Ever wonder how the city picks which roads are repaved first?  It's a question that was addressed Wednesday afternoon by members of the Honolulu City Council’s Public Works Committee. KHON2.

Honolulu Police Out of Step With Other Departments on Undercover Officers. Civil Beat.

The owner of The Waikiki Edition Hotel filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Wednesday as executives from Marriott International Inc. waited to take back management of the hotel. Pacific Business News.

Leeward Coast Residents Denied a Secondary Road. Hawaii Public Radio.

Turtle Bay developers back at the bargaining table, hope for cool heads. Hawaii Independent.

Disqualified rail bidder Bombardier Transportation sent a letter to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation board to ask for a reconsideration. Star-Advertiser.

A "Culture Of Violence" At Waikiki Nightspot. Hawaii Reporter.

Japanese billionaire Genshiro Kawamoto is finally begining to address the safety concerns of some of his Kahaluu neighbors. KITV4.

Hawaii

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is working with Hawaii County to maximize its investment from the 250-kilowatt solar system placed atop of the West Hawaii Civic Center's parking facility, which has 14 electric vehicle conduits. West Hawaii Today.

Even as they plan a series of tuition hikes, University of Hawaii at Hilo administrators say they hope to make attending classes more affordable for their most needy students. Tribune-Herald.

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has partnered with Hawaiian Legacy Hardwoods in planting up to 500,000 “legacy” koa trees on the Big Island. Civil Beat.

High surf forced the closure of Puna's Pohoiki boat-launch ramp Tuesday, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources' Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation said in a written statement. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The Maui County Council Water Resources Committee advanced a bill Tuesday that would allow water from the Hamakuapoko wells to be provided to Upcountry consumers. Maui News.

HNU-Energy, a Wailuku-based company that custom engineers renewable energy technology through research and development, was selected as the Maui County winner in the APEC 2011 Hawaii Business Innovation Showcase. Maui News.

Kauai

In an ongoing effort to boost AT&T wireless service in Hawaii, a new cell tower is being added on Kauai. Associated Press.

The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative at its Tuesday board meeting took action to strengthen both the voice of its board members and those of the community. Garden Island.

The state Department of Education on Friday announced two more Kaua‘i schools have met federal Adequate Yearly Progress standards, a measure by which public schools are held accountable for student performance under the No Child Left Behind Act. Garden Island.

Hannemann 'the one to beat,' military expands Hawaii's $62M remains identity lab, DOT seeks 50 engineers, Kauai taro gets boost, Honolulu surveillance cams raise privacy concerns, more Hawaii news

Mufi Hannemann (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Over the years, former Honolulu Mayor and newly announced congressional candidate Mufi Hannemann has developed the reputation of being a bully. Civil Beat.

Gabbard's Six Unions Didn't Go for Mufi Last Time, Either. Civil Beat.

Hawaii News Now political analyst Dan Boylan said Hannemann is the one to beat. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann is seeking the Democratic nomination to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono he announced Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Contract negotiators for the state made it clear to the teachers union in late April that if it didn't accept a labor savings deal, there would be big consequences, Board of Education member Jim Williams said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sex, drugs, and education: An inside look at Hawaii’s schools. Hawaii Independent.

The state Department of Health is again offering free flu vaccines to elementary and middle school students at more than 300 schools statewide. Associated Press.

The State Department of Transportation is looking to hire fifty people. KHON2.

In a classic Catch-22, Hawaii law requires elevators to pass an annual inspection, but the state cannot perform the safety tests fast enough to meet demand. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

By 2014 the Hawaii-based unit in charge of recovering and identifying remains of Americans listed as missing in action from the nation's wars will be working in a new facility that will increase efficiency and productivity, a military official said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Sen. Inouye Visits JPAC Groundbreaking Site. KITV4.

Several West Oahu residents testified Tuesday night against a political redistricting proposal that would no longer place Makakilo, Kapolei and Ko Olina in the same congressional district. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council is being asked to approve a $1.4 million plan for Honolulu Police to use the traffic cameras to help with security during the economic summit in November. KITV4.

Proposed surveillance cameras raise privacy concerns. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is considering a measure that would set aside up to $75 million for artwork that would be incorporated in the $5.3 billion elevated rail transit system. Pacific Business News.

The head of a new organization dedicated to preserving the Second Amendment has sued Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha in federal court after Kealoha denied him in September 2010 a permit to carry and conceal a semiautomatic pistol. Star-Advertiser.

A subsidiary of Honeywell International Inc. is building a refinery on Oahu that will convert algae and other biomass into high-quality gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. Associated Press.

Honolulu lifeguards and fire fighters helped bring 315 people back to shore as of Tuesday afternoon as a 12-15 foot swell pounded the South Shore of Oahu. KHON2.

Hawaii

Approximately 50 soldiers from Hilo will deploy to Iraq on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

If you have an injury that requires magnetic resonance imaging, you now have access to the best technology on the neighbor islands, Kona Community Hospital officials say. West Hawaii Today.

The fight to launch a charter school in Laupahoehoe may not be over yet. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor Alan Arakawa said Monday that Maui County should create a new division to focus on sustainability issues, and that adding "sustainability" to the Department of Environmental Management was one of his top priorities for charter amendments. Maui News.

Two Maui legislators are meeting with state officials this week for answers on why a state affordable housing project is 40 per cent empty. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

The Taro Security and Purity Task Force announced last week that it has been awarded a grant of $135,000 a year for two years from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. Garden Island.

In light of the recent hurricane that struck the East Coast, county officials on Tuesday urged residents and businesses who have not yet signed up for Connect CTY to do so. Garden Island.

Former Honolulu Mayor Hannemann announces bid for congressional seat, teachers union appeals to Supreme Court, hospital infections secret, Chinatown parties irk residents, Aloha shirt stamps coming, surf's up, more Hawaii news

Hawaii marine scientist (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A University of Hawaii researcher has come up with a new explanation for how acidification of the ocean disrupts coral growth. Star-Advertiser.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann announced Tuesday that he will seek the Democratic nomination for the U.S. House of Representatives from the 2nd Congressional District in 2012. Hawaii News Now.

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann will announce today that he will run in the Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District, describing himself as a proven and experienced leader who would focus on improving the nation's fiscal policy. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said that while it will be "much more challenging than in the past" to maintain the pipeline of federal dollars to Hawaii, he remained confident that his home state would continue to get its share. Maui News.

The teachers union turned to the state Supreme Court on Monday in its bid to seek relief from the wage reductions and higher health insurance premiums imposed July 1. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Public Kept in Dark about Hospital Infections. Civil Beat.

Unanimous support was delivered today to a state Senate committee for career public defender Karen Nakasone to serve as a state Circuit Court judge. Hawaii Reporter.

The new state agency tasked with developing state lands through public-private partnerships will be a corporation of one. Civil Beat.

While the development purpose of the corporation directly conflicts with DLNR’s conservation responsibilities, the Public Land Development Corporation has been set up to act as a separate entity with influence on DLNR decisions. Hawaii Independent.

A Joint House and Senate Human Services Committee conducted a hearing today to hear from the community how lawmakers can help to protect children …especially runaway and homeless youth … from the many dangers they face in Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

It's the last day for the public's voice to be heard on the three finalists nominated to be the next Bishop Estate trustee. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha shirts will adorn five U.S. postage stamps next year, the U.S. Postal Service revealed over the weekend. Star-Advertiser.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory in effect from noon Monday to 6 a.m. Tuesday for rising surf along south facing shores of all Hawaiian Islands. KHON2.

Oahu

A growing number of street closures for parties and events in and around Chinatown has the community talking about how much is too much. KHON2.

Residents and businesses in Leeward Oahu are hoping the opening of Disney's new Aulani resort will have a dramatic and positive impact on the area's economy. KITV4.

Three Honolulu men were arrested Monday on charges of trying to extort money from the owners of The Shack Waikiki, federal prosecutors said. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Design changes and delays acquiring property are preventing Mayor Billy Kenoi from keeping his promise to put the Laaloa Street extension out to bid as soon as the County Council approved a bond float. West Hawaii Today.

Another vent outburst expected. Tribune-Herald.

Kona company takes fish farm far offshore. West Hawaii Today.

Farmers seeking to lease a portion of the 717 acres of county-owned Paauilo land are invited to an open house-style public meeting Thursday at the Paauilo Gym. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Federal Wildlife Inspectors Seize Birds From Maui Refuge. KITV4.

Joe Blackburn is getting an early start in launching his bid to unseat Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino, who holds the council's Wailuku-Waihee-Waikapu residency seat. Maui News.

Updated plans for managing national wildlife refuges on Maui and Molokai are available for the public to review and comment on. Associated Press.

Kauai

Lush landscaping and gazeboes are about to make Kaua‘i’s only off-leash dog park even more appealing. Garden Island.

Hawaii governor, teachers closer to deal, OHA wants secrecy, boat rules, building codes disputed, Maui public housing pricy, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy photo

Hawaii is receiving $1.5 million in federal grants to support the protection of threatened and endangered species. Associated Press.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former congressman Ed Case are familiar figures in Hawaii politics, but in their Democratic primary for U.S. Senate they will ask voters to judge them not only by their pasts, but by their potential to lead Hawaii's congressional delegation for the next few decades. Star-Advertiser.

It's hardly viral — just a scant 47 views to its name as of early Sunday evening — but a YouTube video of Gov. Neil Abercrombie speaking with a small group of Kauai teachers on Saturday may offer a bit of hope that the governor and the Hawaii State Teachers Association could return to the negotiation table sometime soon. Star-Advertiser.

Who was in charge when collective bargaining for Hawaii teachers' contract fell apart this summer?  Civil Beat.

Office of Hawaiian Affairs Takes Second Shot at Claiming Its Employees Aren't Public Civil Beat.

Fee increases and new safety requirements for state small boat harbors users are back on the table. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii commercial fishermen forced to abide by a government catch quota say they face another potential threat to their livelihood — the relocation of monk seals from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to the main Hawaiian Islands. Star-Advertiser.

As children settle into their classrooms to learn fractions, decimals and long division, public school administrators also will be doing some number crunching. Maui News.

Taking tests does not have to be the bane of students’ lives – in fact, a new program on Molokai may show that regular assessment tests can help students learn more efficiently. Molokai Dispatch.

Oahu

Disney's Aulani Resort grand opening on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

New name and new management for Waikiki hotel. KHON2.

Researchers at the University of Hawaii are celebrating a breakthrough discovery that could lead to the prevention of at least two types of cancer in certain people. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu City Council to meet Wednesday to discuss fuel tax, electrical and gas projects. Hawaii Independent.

We hear a lot about the homeless and prostitutes on the streets in Waikiki, but strolling down Kalakaua any given evening, those folk are outnumbered by artists and musicians.Hawaii Public Radio.

Hundreds came out to the Hawaii Convention Center to get an education on energy saving, sustainable living or just to see the latest trends in home remodeling. KITV4.

The Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific has been selected as one of 10 rehabilitation hospitals to partner with Berkeley Bionics to conduct trials on eLEGS Pro, a wearable, battery-powered exoskeleton that enables wheelchair users to stand and walk. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

A sobering new study of America's national parks rates Hawaii Volcanoes National Park "poor" in natural resources and only "fair" in cultural resources. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island presents fairly extensive challenges to a high-speed Internet infrastructure improvement initiative launched by the governor last week. Tribune-Herald.

Convincing the County Council to rethink its approval of new building standards has given bill opponents hope that hurricane-resistant designs and other costly requirements won't be made mandatory. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

After months of testimony and written arguments on the proposed Kula Ridge development, state Land Use Commissioners said Friday they expect to be ready to make a decision on the project by November. Maui News.

With rents at the state’s Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui starting at $1,000 per month, 49 apartments that have been vacant for at least the past 12 months cost the state a minimum of $588,000 in annual gross income. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

Kapaia bridge towers to be stabilized. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday extended a hand to Japan’s Iwaki City, honoring a request from Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. to make the city ravaged by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami the Garden Island’s 15th sister city. Garden Island.

Honolulu seeks survelliance cams for APEC, Ka'u biofuel plant advances, hula opposes TMT, Big Island economic recovery lags, stiff tuition hike for UH, tourists alarmed by Chinatown homeless, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Sen. Daniel Akaka courtesy photo

Sen. Daniel Akaka is getting a prestigious award on Maui on Friday. Hawaii News Now.

Vice President Joe Biden repeatedly praised more than 1,000 Kaneohe-based Marines, sailors and other military members — and their families — in a 15-minute address at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on Thursday, then spent about an hour shaking hands with every person who wanted to meet him. Star-Advertiser.

Democrat Ed Case kicked off his East Hawaii campaign for the U.S. Senate on Thursday, telling attendees at a meet-and-greet in Hilo that he would be "so fiercely, emotionally proud" to be introduced on the Senate floor for the first time as "the senator from Hilo."  Tribune-Herald.

Governor Pushing for Native Hawaiian Registry. Hawaii Public Radio.

University of Hawaii officials will begin soliciting feedback next month on their plan to increase annual tuition and fees by $528 next year for a typical undergraduate student at the flagship Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

UH president says proposed 46 percent tuition increase is ‘reasonable’ Hawaii Independent.

The teachers union is seeking documents and witness testimony about private conversations members of the state's contract negotiating team had to support the union's claim that threats made about layoffs or higher wage reductions would be part of a coordinated effort to intimidate the union into accepting a deal. Star-Advertiser.

This could be the year that Hawaii's governor gets the blessing to implement new work conditions on public employees without union approval. Or it could be the year the Hawaii State Teachers Association prevails in its protest that his action was unconstitutional and violated collective bargaining rights. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A Honolulu City Council bill would authorize the use of overt video monitoring on Oahu for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings. Hawaii Independent.

The Honolulu Police Department wants to use existing city traffic cameras and new surveillance cameras to monitor traffic and threats during Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November. KITV4.

Senator Dan Inouye spoke to the HART Board of Directors, reminiscing about the last go around for rail when the city council voted it down, and he watched federal money go elsewhere. KHON2.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says a plan to protect endangered and threatened species during the construction and operation of a proposed wind power farm northeast of Haleiwa is ready for public review and comment. Associated Press.

The first Oahu public school to receive state funding to construct a photovoltaic system has completed installation of 468 solar panels. Associated Press.

Chinese Visitors Alarmed by Homeless in Chinatown. KHON2.

Hawaii

The contested case hearing for the Thirty Meter Telescope took some unusual turns Thursday, featuring hula, music and a sudden change in venue. Tribune-Herald.

A proposed biofuels plant on the Big Island scored a victory Tuesday, with the state agency tasked with protecting consumer interests giving it its seal of approval.  Civil Beat.

East Hawaii's economic recovery will continue to be slow for the next year or two, according to economists who spoke Thursday in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

A “downbeat” construction industry on the Big Island will diminish gains in the tourism sector, leading Hawaii County on a slow recovery from the recent recession, according to economist Leroy Laney. Pacific Business News

A scant dozen people came out to a public hearing Thursday to support a ban on plastic checkout bags, a stance that also drew two opposing testifiers and overwhelming opposition from 131 people in a mail-in campaign. West Hawaii Today.

An acrimonious dispute between the state Ethics Commission director and a Big Island Charter School has spilled into Circuit Court. Hawaii Reporter.

Darren Rosario has been elected the new Hawaii County Fire Chief. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Overall July visitor arrival numbers show Maui almost keeping pace, with slightly fewer tourists enjoying vacations here compared with the same month in 2010. Maui News.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono is hosting a free event Saturday aimed at helping people deal with the threat of foreclosures and guard against fraud. Maui News.

Nearly half of the restroom at H.A. Baldwin Park collapsed Wednesday afternoon, casting bathroom fixtures off the eroded edge into the sand and lapping ocean below. Maui News.

Kauai

It’s the type of culturally based restorative justice program that Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho has wanted to start since she took office in 1998. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Academy of Dance and Gymnastics, directed by Michelle Rozon, is celebrating 24 years on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.