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.

Biden visits, Hawaii sued by gun advocates, Kauai Food Bank fight, Honolulu, Big Island work on district lines, vacation rental changes stall, UH chancellor position in limbo, $1.5M for Native Hawaiians, more Hawaii news

Photo courtesy World Island Paradise

After five deaths in five years, land company blocks access to popular Kauai waterfall. Garden Island.

Vice President Joe Biden arrived in Honolulu Wednesday and visited the USS Arizona Memorial with his daughter-in-law and granddaughter. Star-Advertiser.

Vice President Joe Biden is due to speak to U.S. servicemen and women in Hawaii on his way home to Washington, D.C. from a weeklong trip to Asia. Associated Press.

Saying the 2012 race to fill Hawaii's U.S. Senate vacancy is a battle for the future of the Democratic party in this state, former U.S. Rep. Ed Case kicked off his senatorial campaign in West Hawaii Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono expressed impatience Wednesday to East Hawaii business leaders over the partisan gridlock that she said has stalled legislation important to Hawaii.Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Treasury Department is awarding more than $1.5 million to help provide loans and financial services to Native Hawaiian families. Associated Press.

The Big Island has been named the top Hawaiian island and is ranked seventh among islands around the world. KHON2.

The outlook for Hawaii's economy through the rest of this year has dimmed based in part on weaker-than-expected visitor arrivals and lower job growth. Star-Advertiser.

Homes that were in some stage of the foreclosure process accounted for more than 21 percent of all residential sales in Hawaii during the second quarter. Pacific Business News.

A public auction of property forfeited to the State of Hawaii will be held on August 27 in the Pikake room at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center. Hawaii News Now.

A firestorm of public accusations made by Hawai‘i Food Bank’s president in recent weeks has engulfed Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

The non-profit Hawaii Defense Foundation has filed a lawsuit against the Honolulu Chief of Police Louis Kealoha, the Honolulu Police Department and the City & County of Honolulu as well as the State of Hawaii and Gov. Neil Abercrombie for violating the Second and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution. Hawaii Reporter.

A pedestrian fatality happened on Oahu early Wednesday morning, just hours before the state released a plan designed to decrease pedestrian injuries and deaths. KITV4.

Just like the state's redistricting panel before it, the Honolulu Council Reapportionment Commission on Wednesday said it will count all residents — military families, students and felons — as it redraws political boundaries. Star-Advertiser.

Central themes of the island's new political boundaries began taking shape Wednesday as the county Redistricting Commission weeded out 14 and kept three proposed maps, another step in the long process of redrawing County Council districts to accommodate population growth revealed by the 2010 census. West Hawaii Today.

A proposal that would require vacation rental operators in Honolulu to include license numbers on any advertising drew a split vote from the city's Planning Commission on Wednesday. Civil Beat.

The 7-member Honolulu Planning Commission did not get the necessary five majority vote to approve or disapprove a proposed measure to enable closer scrutiny of vacation rentals on O’ahu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Just one little change could make life much harder for operators of unpermitted short-term rentals in residential areas, the Maui Planning Commission was told Tuesday. Maui News.

University of Hawaii at Manoa Chancellor Virginia S. Hinshaw will leave her job at the end of the school year, opening the door to debate about the need for a separate administrator to oversee UH's flagship campus. Star-Advertiser.

A full-time resident student at the University of Hawaii at Manoa currently pays $4,200 per semester (up $400 from the year before). Non-resident students pay $11,616 per semester. Those numbers are expected to go up by next year. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County's decision to charge a $1 bus fare appears to be driving away Hele-On riders accustomed to free transportation. Tribune-Herald.

Harbor growth to create pains. Tribune-Herald.

Business owners concerned over rail property takeover. Hawaii News Now.

Hanabusa not seeking Senate, UH tuition could climb, newspaper sues Abercrombie over public records, special session to vet judicial pick, women's prison under investigation, broadband for Hawaii, solar panels for Maui, Lanai, more island news

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa announced late Tuesday she would skip a run for the U.S. Senate and instead seek re-election to her 1st Congressional District seat. Civil Beat.

The state Senate plans to meet in a special session Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 to consider Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s appointment of Karen Nakasone this month to a 10-year term on Oahu’s Circuit Court. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie maintained that disclosing the names of judicial candidates would hamper attracting applicants to the bench, his office said in response to a Honolulu Star-Advertiser lawsuit filed Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Kona Judiciary Complex's lengthy list of potential sites has been winnowed down to seven, moving the much-needed facility closer to opening in 2017. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents will hear details Thursday of three proposals that would raise tuition from about 16 percent to about 46 percent by 2016 for a typical undergraduate student at the Manoa campus. Star-Advertiser.

The Governor launched Hawai’I’s Broadband Initiative today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Abercrombie launches broadband initiative. Governor: Lightning fast Internet by 2018. Garden Island.

Prison Probe Under way At Women's Facility. KITV4.

Fighting farm theft and vandalism is getting a closer look by state officials in the wake of high-profile cases. KHON2.

Honolulu managed to attract three bidders for a new $300 million rapid transit consulting contract, but the winner was the same firm that has already received some $166 million in similar work. Hawaii Reporter.

Sumitomo has reason for not filing rail contract appeal. Pacific Business News.

Maui County awarded contracts this month to install at least 1,000 solar panels on the rooftops of county facilities on Maui and Lanai. Maui News.

The military command charged with finding and identifying Americans missing from past conflicts plans to build a new multimillion-dollar facility on Oahu. Associated Press.

Native Hawaiian Conference to begin Wednesday at Convention Center. Hawaii News Now.

One of five applicants vying to become Hawaii County's next fire chief has withdrawn his name, the Fire Commission announced Tuesday before privately interviewing the remaining candidates.Tribune-Herald.

Two out of the six plenary speakers for a state energy conference expected to draw leaders from more than 20 countries are high-profile board members of Kuokoa. The company was formed last December and hopes to take over Hawaiian Electric Industries. Civil Beat.

The venue for the contested case hearing for the approval of the Thirty Meter Telescope's Conservation District Use Application has been changed. Tribune-Herald.

West Hawaii's second-largest public school just got a little bigger. West Hawaii Today.

After 18 months and some $4 million in renovations — plus another $30,000 a month to lease a temporary location — the Kaua‘i County Council is almost ready to return to its regular home at the Historic County Building in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

Researchers rescued nine Hawaiian monk seals caught in fish nets and other marine debris this summer during an annual trip to the Northwestern Islands to monitor and help protect the critically endangered species. Associated Press.

Honolulu homeless sweep continues, Maui affordable housing in shambles, school test results released, Hilo religious marijuana trial delayed by jury handouts, Turtle Bay downsized, more Hawaii news

Aloha Festival parade (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s oldest and largest cultural festival, the annual Aloha Festivals , starts Sept. 1 and runs through the entire month — and continues to be among the biggest tourism draws for Waikiki every year. Pacific Business News.

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting in November will require more than one-thousand volunteers to assist guests during their stay in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

Homeless Sweep Under Freeway Uncovers Elaborate Structures. KITV4.

Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway granted a request Monday by federal prosecutors to suspend $48,000 in restitution payments by a man who pleaded guilty to a felony charge related to Aloun Farms bringing in 44 Thai nationals to work at the Kapolei-based agricultural business. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Department of Education released the school-by-school assessment results Monday morning. Civil Beat.

Of the five West Hawaii public schools that made adequate yearly progress, only two -- Innovations Public Charter School and Honaunau Elementary -- met No Child Left Behind reading and mathematics proficiency standards. West Hawaii Today.

A much-delayed lawsuit concerning the Hawaii public school system’s treatment of two autistic girls in the mid-1990’s is set to go to trial in October and could cost the state “millions of dollars” in damages for each of the girls, according to public records. Hawaii Reporter.

An independent investigative committee evaluating conditions at Hawaii's juvenile detention home find shortcomings. Civil Beat.

A former Hilo health clinic will become a 30-bed home for young adults with mental disorders under a land-use request pending before Hawaii County. Tribune-Herald.

A new front has been opened in the fight to keep Honolulu from awarding a $1.4 billion rail contract. Civil Beat.

The Board of Water Supply has postponed a vote on a plan to raise water rates 70 percent by 2015. KHON2.

The majority of testimony at a public hearing Monday was in opposition to a Board of Water Supply proposal to increase water rates by 70% over the next five years. Hawaii News Now.

The owners of Turtle Bay Resort are advancing a new expansion plan for the North Shore property that represents a scaled-back version of a previous owner's plan. Star-Advertiser.

Forty per cent of the units at the state’s Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui – 71 of 184 apartments - have been vacant for extended periods of time ranging from months to more than five years, according to interviews and property records. Hawaii Reporter.

The Days Inn-branded Maui Oceanfront Inn, home of Sarento's on the Beach, could be the latest Hawaii hotel to hit the auction block as part of a bankruptcy reorganization. Star-Advertiser.

A marijuana trial got off to a rocky start Monday after prospective jurors were handed fliers featuring the face of jailed pot activist Roger Christie. Tribune-Herald.

If there's a heaven, Lionel "Buddy" Azevedo is on his way there to make sure it's built right. West Hawaii Today.

Kauai Mayor Bernard Carvalho Jr. has proposed another sister-city relationship with a foreign municipality. Garden Island.

Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich spoke about his core values to about 150 applauding TEA Party of Maui members Saturday during a brief campaign tour of Hawaii. Maui News.

Actors wanted for ‘A Jive Bomber’s Christmas’ at Kumu Kahua Theatre. Hawaii Independent.

Kona donkeys heading to California, Waikiki topless demonstration draws police, state trust fund bleeding red ink, vacant properties draw squatters, Native Hawaiians push for rights, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kona donkeys (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Up to 120 wild donkeys rescued from taxing conditions in Waikoloa will soon have new homes in California, where they can live out the remainder of their lives protected from harm. West Hawaii Today.

New laws on the state and national levels have expanded the recognition of Native Hawaiians’ rights to self-determination. With that in mind, a sovereignty group on Kaua‘i remains concerned that local law enforcement needs more awareness to avoid interfering with individuals exercising those rights. Garden Island.

Hawaii state lawmakers are due to hold an informational briefing next week on the status of a new body created to generate revenue from public lands. Associated Press.

Faculty leaders at the University of Hawaii's College of Engineering say they have been "stonewalled" for at least six months trying to get details about how the college spends hundreds of thousands of dollars in private donations each year. Star-Advertiser.

The trust fund that pays for Hawaii state and county employees' health insurance ended the 2010 fiscal year nearly $5 million in the red, according to an audit issued late Thursday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii posted the nation’s largest month-to-month percentage increase in employment in July to end the month with a jobless rate of 6.1 percent. Pacific Business News.

Unemployment is down on five of the six major Hawaiian islands. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Public Utilities Commission Lags Far Behind Other States. Civil Beat.

The public will get a chance to sound off on a proposed Oahu water rate hike on Monday. Hawaii News Now.

The Main Hawaiian Island bottomfish season opens Sept. 1, and the state’s Division of Aquatic Resources wants to more accurately count how many “Deep 7” and other bottomfish are being pulled from the ocean. Molokai Dispatch.

The value we put into our education system is a tricky thing to quantify. Hawaii Independent.

A topless demonstration drew some attention in Waikiki before police arrived and put an end to the bare breasted protest. KITV4.

Waikiki catamaran operators say they fear a state proposal to shift them to a commercial permit system would lead to a bidding process and ultimately put them out of business. Star-Advertiser.

Plan to replenish sand at Makaha Beach. KHON2.

Waikiki's vacant and fallow properties have proved the most vulnerable to homeless people who have been driven out of their favorite public haunts. Star-Advertiser.

The great Hawaii Island battle between man and coqui is over. The little, quarter-sized frogs have won. Tribune-Herald.

A local solar company was awarded one of the largest government contracts in the state. KHON2.

University of Hawaii Maui College will hold a "Launch Celebration" on Friday, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., on its Kahului campus with entertainment, food by the culinary arts program, information tables and college tours. Maui News.

The Philippine Consulate outreach team will be in Hilo Monday to help process Philippine passports and applications for a number of services. Associated Press.

Fighter planes filled the sky over Pearl Harbor Saturday. KITV4.

Hawaii tourism chief up for review, Fernanda no threat, fee delay costs roads $19.2M, Big Island seeks fire chief, military contractor settles Kauai sexual harassment suit, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea crowd (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Scientists on the Big Island expect to see more action from Kilauea volcano in the coming days. Hawaii News Now.

A delay in implementing increases in registration fees and vehicle weight taxes means $19.2 million will not be collected this year for highway maintenance and repairs. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Labor Relations Board ruled Thursday that a controversial letter from Gov. Neil Abercrombie to the board was not an unlawful attempt to influence the board's decisions in a dispute between the teachers union and the state. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is due to discuss the performance of the agency's CEO next week. Associated Press.

Waikiki aquarium unveiled its new Northwestern Hawaiian Islands exhibit. KHON2.

Fernanda, which entered the Central Pacific Thursday as a strong tropical storm, is "falling apart" faster than expected, forecasters say. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka was on Maui on Wednesday as chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs to listen to ideas on how to create parity for indigenous people living across America, with a focus on Hawaii. Maui News.

One of Kauai's largest employers has settled a federal sexual harassment and retaliation lawsuit by two firefighters. Associated Press.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) heard a warning today that the company it chose to build the train is headed for financial ruin, but the warning came from the company that has so far been rejected by the city. Hawaii News Now.

A Big Island businessman has donated $500,000 to help protect native forests in Ka'u and South Kona. Tribune-Herald.

Five finalists are on the short list to succeed Hawaii County Fire Chief Darryl Oliveira, who retired Aug. 1. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo rested its case for the Thirty Meter Telescope on Thursday in the ongoing contested case hearing. Tribune-Herald.

Val T. Iwashita, who has been headmaster at Iolani School for 17 years, said Thursday that he will step down at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Pacific Business News.

After starting the year showing good gains, occupancy rates at Maui resorts tailed off as the months wore by, and by the end of June the overall occupancy rate for the first half of the year was 72.1 percent, still better than the depressed 68.2 percent of January to June 2010. Maui News.

Hundreds of people lined West Hawaii roadways Thursday to pay tribute to Waimea Marine Lance Cpl. Christopher Camero, who gave the ultimate sacrifice. West Hawaii Today.

Honolulu police are permanently removing their website that featured photos of people arrested for driving under the influence. Associated Press.

Thirty years ago, a group of Hawaiian Language students at U-H Manoa discovered a water system behind the dormitories on Dole Street. Hawaii Public Radio.