Furloughs begin for Hawaii teachers, UH gains full accreditation, FBI breaks ground, solar company to create 100 Oahu jobs, Hawaii County building codes advance, Kauai seeks bay protections, more Hawaii news

Ala Wai Canal (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Residents near Ala Wai Promenade raise concerns about homeless campers. KHON2.

Even as the nation struggles to bounce back from the recession, most state governments — including Hawaii's — are increasing their spending. Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii at Manoa was recently reaccredited for a full 10 years -- the maximum reaccreditation period granted. Hawaii News Now.

While public school teachers took a five-percent pay cut starting July 1, some 3,700 University of Hawaii faculty members saw their pay cuts restored and they have a raise on the way. KITV4.

Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi has not been forthcoming with the public about the details of the hotly contested new contract she and Gov. Neil Abercrombie imposed on teachers. Civil Beat.

Teacher furloughs began today as thousands of kids near the start of classes at Oahu's multitrack public schools. KHON2.

Today, a new generation of politician is serving in elected office. Hawaii Public Radio.

The FBI will centralize different operations of its Honolulu bureau by building a state-of-the-art facility on 10 acres of dusty brush that was part of the former Barbers Point Naval Air Station. Star-Advertiser.

The FBI will become the first federal agency to be headquartered in the Kapolei area of Oahu and groundbreaking for the agency’s new $65 million home was held today. Hawaii Reporter.

Halfway into 2011, Oahu's housing market is on pace to give back 2010 gains that previously were viewed as the start of a rebound. Star-Advertiser.

With numerous factors tugging the market in different directions, Maui real estate concluded the first half of 2011 with prices down a little and volume up a little for single-family homes. Maui News.

Foreclosures may have fallen off the front page, but for those facing the loss of their homes it’s still the leading story. Hawaii Independent.

New solar company to create 100 jobs on Oahu. Pacific Business News.


New homes must be designed to protect occupants from hurricane-force winds, the County Council decided Thursday in advancing new building, plumbing and electrical codes. Tribune-Herald.

Major revamps to county building, plumbing and electrical codes moved forward Thursday on 8-0 votes by the Hawaii County Council. West Hawaii Today.

An airline that connects smaller cities with leisure destinations has received federal certification to fly a bigger plane, a step toward providing future service to Hawaii. Associated Press.

Almost everyone present at a state Department of Land and Natural Resources meeting in Hanalei School Cafeteria Wednesday evening agreed there is a need for rules regulating commercial activities in Hanalei Bay and River. Garden Island.

Accusations of improper legislation on both sides of a proposed plastic bag ban stymied the Hawaii County Council on Thursday and delayed a proposal to cut public hearings short. West Hawaii Today.

The Kauai Police Department is the first in the state to post surveillance videos of crimes on a website. Star-Advertiser.

A bill pending before the County Council Policy Committee would update the county's record-keeping laws and help determine which documents could be stored electronically and which eventually could be thrown away. Maui News.

An attempt to improve the County Council's decorum was thwarted Thursday by minority members' "obstructionist" actions, alleged South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford. Tribune-Herald.

A voluntary coalition of private landowners and state land managers hopes to preserve and propagate a rare Hawaiian plant species presumed extinct until it was discovered last summer in a North Kohala upland forest. West Hawaii Today.

A video taken last month atop Mauna Kea has astronomers, online space geeks and conspiracy theorists all playing the guessing game. Tribune-Herald.

Native Hawaiian recognition moves forward, Hawaii team seeks Pacific garbage patch, civil defense sirens to be mandatory in Hawaii County, 911 fails on Kauai, Oahu sewage problems increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Native Hawaiian bill signing courtesy photo Governor's Office

A new state law recognizes the first people of Hawaii and lays the foundation for Native Hawaiians to establish their own government. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Wednesday signed a bill into law recognizing the first people of Hawaii. KITV4.

With historic Washington Place as the backdrop for a ceremony that included conch-shell blowing, traditional Hawaiian music and hula, Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed into law a bill that formally recognizes Native Hawaiians as "the only indigenous, aboriginal, maoli population" of the islands and begins a process to create a registry of qualified members to work toward the reorganization of a native government. Star-Advertiser.

As of Wednesday Native Hawaiians have confirmation from the state of something they knew all along. Wednesday Governor Neil Abercrombie signed a bill into law officially recognizing Native Hawaiians as the "only indigenous, aboriginal, maoli population of Hawaii." Hawaii News Now.

In one session, the 2011 Hawaii Legislature was able to do what the U.S. Congress has not been able to do in a decade's time: recognize Native Hawaiians as the indigenous people of Hawaii. Civil Beat.

A bill intended to move in concert with the Akaka Bill was signed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Wednesday, July 6 at Washington Place amid praise and protest. Hawaii Independent.

Unwilling to wait for federal recognition of the Hawaiian people, Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Wednesday signed into law a bill providing for recognition and eventual self-governance. Tribune-Herald.

The team onboard the Sea Dragon, a 72-foot steel-hull racing sloop expects their mission to find the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch" will take a week. KITV4.

Farms Under EEOC Scrutiny in Hawaii and Washington Receive Federal Aid. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers are considering a proposed business model for the development of geothermal energy as a statewide resource for electrical production. Hawaii Independent.

An ordinance requiring civil defense sirens as a condition of development moved forward Wednesday with a positive vote from the County Council Planning Committee. West Hawaii Today.

Waikiki residents and leaders are stepping up efforts to get the first city park built in central Waikiki after the death of community activist William Lee Sweatt, who worked for more than a decade to turn the derelict lot behind his condominium into a place where his grandchildren could play. Star-Advertiser.

The City & County of Honolulu, which is working to construct a $5.3 billion steel on steel elevated rail system from Kapolei to Honolulu, has leased premium office space in the midst of Honolulu’s pricey downtown civic center. Hawaii Reporter.

Rail project officials meet with Kakaako residents about pre-construction noise. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines Thursday will change the type of aircraft it uses to operate its daily, nonstop flights between Honolulu and Tokyo’s Haneda Airport. Pacific Business News.

Don Ho's Island Grill is "not closed," said owner Phillip Johnson, who established parent company PJJ Restaurant LLC to buy the Aloha Tower Marketplace restaurant in September. Star-Advertiser.

In just a few weeks, raw sewage sludge will start to be trucked from downtown Honolulu to treatment plants in Kailua and Ewa Beach. KHON2.

Leeward Oahu residents say they've seen a rise in staph infections and they fear the source is one the more popular beaches on the westside. KHON2.

Inside the Nawiliwili Council Chambers on Wednesday morning, Kauai Police Department Chief Darryl Perry spoke about the dangers of driving while holding a cell phone. Garden Island.

Mayor Alan Arakawa and Maui County Council Chairman Danny Mateo are leading a delegation of county representatives to South Korea to encourage tourism, and cultural and educational exchanges between Hawaii and the emerging Asian economic powerhouse. Maui News.

A group of business and political heavyweights pitched Wednesday to a receptive County Council a public-private partnership for handling East Hawaii garbage, but Mayor Billy Kenoi said after the meeting the administration is proceeding with its own plans. West Hawaii Today.

Molokai community leaders Kanoho Helm and Walter Ritte told PBS Hawaii Insights moderator Dan Boylan last night that Molokai doesn’t want the billion-dollar undersea cable and Molokai doesn’t want Big Wind. Molokai Dispatch.

For five hours beginning Tuesday night, the Kauai Police Department's 911 emergency dispatch telephone system and its backup failed, Kauai County officials said. KITV4.

Two investors have partnered with the owners of Waiakea Waterfront, bringing much-needed capital into the troubled commercial development in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Collecting on delinquent accounts, charging more fees, curbing property tax abuse and reviewing procurement and employee contracts are just a few avenues proposed by a commission tasked with reducing the cost of our island's government. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii tax burden 4th highest in the nation, school lunches, bus fees to increase, Native Hawaiians to protest bill signing, Freddie Mac foreclosures go judicial route, more Hawaii news

USS Constellation U.S. Navy courtesy photo

The USS Constellation needs a new home, and several Big Island residents want to take advantage of the naval vessel's potential to foster new jobs and an economic boon for the entire state. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii will be hit with a one-two punch of summertime surf for south and west shores. KITV4.

Vast quantities of natural minerals necessary to produce everything from iPhones to electric cars to military weapons systems have been discovered across the Pacific by Japanese researchers, leading to concerns that a modern-day gold rush could contaminate waters around Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

The Board of Education is being asked by the Governor to consider further program cuts amidst a projected 50-million dollar annual state-wide budget shortfall. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawai‘i will receive $115,257,706 in federal funds for education this fiscal year including more than $39 million for education programs targeting children living with disabilities and more than $47 million for the improvement of existing state programs, Sens. Daniel Inouye and Daniel Akaka, and U.S. Reps. Mazie Hirono and Colleen Hanabusa announced Tuesday in a press release. Garden Island.

Looks like more of the same with runaway school bus costs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii families could soon see changes in prices for school meals and bus fares.  Hawaii News Now.

Students would pay $1.25 for a one-way school bus ride, or 50 cents more, under a fare increase proposal aimed at helping make up a $9 million legislative cut in funding to student transportation. Star-Advertiser.

We’re an island chain in the middle of the Pacific trying to feed the energy needs of over a million people—and the millions more who visit Hawaii each year. Hawaii Independent.

A plan to harvest 13,000 acres of Ka'u scrubland to convert plant material into energy is moving forward, following the signing of a law paving the way for electric customer cost-sharing and the establishment of a construction management partnership. West Hawaii Today.

The Institute for Truth in Accounting recently announced completion of a significant, comprehensive study of all 50 states’ assets and liabilities, including pension and retirement healthcare obligations. Hawaii Reporter.

A group of Native Hawaiians has announced a four-hour protest today in Honolulu, opposing a bill they say would “try to revive and jump-start the now defunct Akaka Bill.” Garden Island.

The state has toughened up the law protecting firefighters and water safety officers. KHON2.

Government-backed lender Freddie Mac says it too will convert all of its new and pending non-judicial foreclosures in Hawaii to judicial foreclosures effective immediately.  Civil Beat.

Housing markets on Kauai and Hawaii island were relatively weak in June with mostly lower prices and sales, though activity over the first six months of this year has been more mixed with lower prices and mostly higher sales. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island real estate sales are lagging -- if just a bit. West Hawaii Today.

More of Hawaii's homeless are being fed in shelters instead of public spaces during the first half state's 90-day plan to help move people into housing. Associated Press.

The Army will demonstrate on Friday underwater technology that will be used over the following three weeks to gauge whether old, discarded munitions can be removed from relatively shallow waters off the Waianae Coast. Star-Advertiser.

Councilman Fred Blas is his own faction regarding his vote on Hawaii County's $367.3 million operating budget, he said. Tribune-Herald.

Alien species: "It would help if we had more staff and more people." Hawaii News Now.

Duplication of health services is not an issue for Molokai, said Loretta Fuddy, state Director of Health, last week. Molokai Dispatch.

After a week-and-a-half of haggling over terms, developer Jeff Stone’s proposed gift of 300 acres of land in Leeward Oahu is no closer to its intended recipients, Kamehameha Schools and the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Pacific Business News.

An alert guard at the Oahu Community Correctional Center thwarted a daring escape off the rooftop of a third story building. KITV4.

Forty-five Japanese citizens affected by March's deadly earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis arrived on the Valley Isle on Monday to have some time to rest and recuperate. Maui News.

That's some snake! Boa constrictor captured

courtesy photo Hawaii Department of Agriculture

HONOLULU – A boa constrictor was captured yesterday and held overnight at the Honolulu Zoo.  Agricultural inspectors picked up the snake this morning and it is being safeguarded at the Plant Quarantine Branch of the Hawai`i Department of Agriculture (HDOA).

The female snake measures nine-feet, three-inches, which is an adult size for boa constrictors.
HDOA does not have official information on the circumstances of the capture, which was initially reported by the Honolulu Police Department and involved personnel from the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and the Honolulu Zoo.

DLNR reported that one of their enforcement officers was called at about 6:30 p.m. last night by hunters who had spotted a snake near the Waiawa Correctional Facility.  The DLNR officer picked up the snake and dropped it off at the Honolulu Zoo.

Boa constrictors are non-venomous and are native to Central and South America.  They can grow up to 12 feet in length and have a normal diet of small mammals such as mice and rats.  Snakes have no natural predators in Hawai`i and pose a serious threat to Hawai`i's environment.  Many species also prey on birds and their eggs, increasing the threat to endangered native birds.  Large snakes can also be a danger to the public and small pets.

Individuals who have illegal animals are encouraged to turn them in under the State's amnesty program, which provides immunity from prosecution. Illegal animals may be turned in to any HDOA Office, Honolulu Zoo or any Humane Society - no questions asked and no fines assessed.  Anyone with information on illegal animals should call the PEST HOTLINE at 643-PEST (7378).

Abercrombie to sign Native Hawaiian recognition bill Wednesday, Hawaii welcomes Japanese earthquake survivors, Molokai mulls tourism benefits, Kona forests preserved, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian protest (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A 118-year-old deep-rooted obligation to formally recognize Native Hawaiians as “the only indigenous, aboriginal, maoli people of Hawaii” will take a major step forward when Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs Senate Bill 1520 into law on Wednesday, July 6. Molokai News.

Six years ago this month, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, the state's largest industrial employer, barely escaped inclusion on a Pentagon list for possible base closure. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii families welcomed 68 Japanese residents into their homes Monday, providing them respite from the devastation of the earthquake and tsunami of March 11. Star-Advertiser.


More than Half of Lingle Appointees Won't Resign. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teachers are upset not only over the contents of the state's "last, best, final" contract offer, but also with the tactics used to present them, says a union representative with the Hawaii State Teachers Association. Civil Beat.

While many around the nation celebrate America's 235th birthday, Oahu residents are observing the first Fourth of July under the newly imposed fireworks ban. Hawaii News Now.

The fireworks show at the beach park combined with a free concert at Ala Moana shopping center draws a crowd of thousands every year. KITV4.

As people across Hawaii celebrated July 4th on Monday, more than 4,000 families at Schofield Barracks were separated from their loved ones because of deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. KITV4.

For the third straight day, state and federal police were on patrol at Heeia Kea Pier in Kaneohe, checking boats for the proper paperwork and gear even before they hit the water. KHON2.

The University of Hawaii Board of Regents welcomed two members Friday. Pacific Business News.

The demand for parking in Wailuku town is 3,491 spaces, but the amount available is only 2,743 - a deficit of 748 spaces, a parking management study shows. Maui News.

Molokai continues to teeter on the balance between the economic benefits from tourism and the desire to maintain the island’s pristine and undeveloped flavor. Molokai News.

Island School graduated 32 seniors June 11, the largest graduating class in the school’s history since its founding in 1977. Garden Island.

A Wisconsin businesswoman has donated $2 million to establish an endowed deanship at the University of Hawaii- Manoa's Hawaii'inuiakea School of Hawaiian Knowledge. Associated Press.

More than 10,000 acres of state lands along the South Kona Coast are now protected from development thanks to the work of Hawaii Island's newest senator. Tribune-Herald.

When Hawaii passed a new law with extensive protections to prevent residents from losing their homes, it was hailed as the nation's strongest foreclosure law -- maybe too strong, many warn. Associated Press.

All Hawaii News named best in Hawaii and getting better every day

Mahalo for your support! All Hawaii News was recently named the top one-person produced news website in the state by the Society of Professional Journalists. It's an honor, but it's also a call for more. Since 2008, All Hawaii News has practiced kaizen, so the changes you see are gradual, but always for the better. This site is not a big money-maker, and there are no deep pockets keeping it going. Just a lot of early mornings and hard work.

The goal is to sweep the state -- not with spiders and bots and other nonhuman workers, but with a human eye and a practiced hand and a seasoned journalist’s news sense – to find the top news stories of the day from all of the Hawaiian Islands. All Hawaii News is not Oahu-centric, so you’ll see breaking stories from Maui, Kauai, Hawaii Island and Molokai before they catch the attention of other news curators.

Most of the site’s content is fresh by 7 a.m. HST every weekday. Updates come throughout the day via Google news feeds, tweets and the state’s top bloggers. There’s a heavy emphasis on government news at the state and county levels, as well as issues involving the environment, green energy and Native Hawaiians. If you’re looking for the “if it bleeds, it leads,” crime stories, better look elsewhere. Photos are selected to illustrate a news story and show the range of the breath-taking beauty of our state.

All Hawaii News is on Facebook and Twitter, so be sure to follow us there for low-volume updates that don’t spam you with what you already know. You can also subscribe via RSS and email.

One of the best ways to use All Hawaii News? Bookmark it on your smartphone! It’s like having a news-reader in your hand, going beyond the headlines to give you a solid sentence or two about all the day’s news, with links to the original sources to find out more.

Have ideas to improve All Hawaii News? Feel free to drop me a line, send a tweet, a Facebook comment or email. All Hawaii News is open to improvements!

Hawaii teachers consider next move, new laws, new fees in effect today, Kauai explores hydro power, Hawaii County Council fails budget veto override, homeowners pay too much insurance, more news from the islands

rare Hawaii orchid courtesy photo, The Nature Conservancy

More than 30 years of research has led to a major victory in protecting one of Hawaii's rarest plants—a native orchid of the Islands’ high forests and bogs that was down to fewer than 50 known individuals. Civil Beat.

Board members of the newly created entity that's due to oversee the city's planned rail line are to conduct their first meeting. Associated Press.

On Friday, all of the laws listed below will become effective throughout the state of Hawaii. KITV4.

Five percent wage reductions and increased health insurance premiums for Hawaii's 12,700 public school teachers were to be unilaterally implemented today, in an extraordinary move that the state says is necessary under a tight budget. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association was not able to stop the State from implementing a pay cut. KHON2.

The Hawaii State Teachers Association has said it is exploring legal options to stop the contract from going into effect. KITV4.

It is summer break but special education teacher Bryantt Bernardo is in his Moanalua Middle School classroom catching up on paperwork. Hawaii News Now.

They are both Japanese-American women in their early 60s, married Buddhists with no children who represent the state of Hawaii 5,000 miles away in the U.S. House of Representatives. Civil Beat.

Hawaii homeowners pay “excessive rates” for insurance, according to state Insurance Commissioner Gordon Ito. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii hotels’ occupancy levels dropped during the week ending June 25, but average room rates were higher than last year, according to Smith Travel ResearchbizWatch and Hospitality Advisors. Pacific Business News.

A controversial plan to build 11,750 homes on Ewa farmland was given new life Thursday as a state commission agreed to resume the case after it was stopped nearly two years ago. Star-Advertiser.

Developer D.R. Horton-Schuler Division wants to build the $4.6 billion Hoopili Project, that includes nearly 12,000 homes, along with businesses to create jobs.  Officials say they also want to make it sustainable. KHON2.

Dozens of labor advocates, environmentalists, and Oahu small farmers crowded into today’s Land Use Commission meeting regarding D.R. Horton’s proposed Hoopili development in Ewa. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii County will reinstate full open-space funding but not prepay certain retirement costs because the County Council fell one vote short Thursday of overriding Mayor Billy Kenoi's budget veto. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Billy Kenoi's $367.3 million budget goes into effect today the way he proposed it, following the County Council's failure Thursday to override his veto. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Billy Kenoi has asked the state's largest public-sector labor union to strike a separate deal with Hawaii County, allowing 13 furlough days a year for the next two years. West Hawaii Today.

Just barely making a tight deadline, the Maui County Council Policy Committee voted unanimously Wednesday to move a bill forward that would allow the mayor to negotiate a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency over allegations that injection wells in West Maui violate the Safe Drinking Water Act. Maui News.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources issued a statement Tuesday in support of hydroelectricity and Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s exploration of hydro power development. Garden Island.

A full 2 percent of county property tax revenues will be earmarked for land buys this year, following the withdrawal Thursday of a bill that would have cut it to a minimum of 1 percent. West Hawaii Today.

The Honolulu City Council's new chairman, Ernie Martin, has announced new committee assignments for the council's nine members. Associated Press.

Despite being from Jamaica, Bob Marley has become one of the most influential music figures in our Hawai`i ohana. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii has clean beaches, ag land in peril, Oahu low unemployment brings down state average, Earthjustice to sue Maui over wastewater, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki beach (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawai‘i’s beaches had the fourth cleanest water in the nation last year, according to an environmental action group’s report released Wednesday. Associated Press.

A national evaluation of two Big Island beaches has found both have a history of exceptional water quality. Tribune-Herald.

Teachers scrambled for news and contacted their union and government leaders Wednesday, two days ahead of the Department of Education's plan to unilaterally impose a 5 percent wage reduction and other contract conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Next week, many Hawaii public workers will receive less take-home pay, but others will see unexpected, if temporary, increases.Hawaii Reporter.

Paycuts and a bigger share of health premium costs are among the changes taking place Friday for most public employees. KHON2.

Two more appointees asked by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to resign say they will not do so. Civil Beat.

Attorneys for Earthjustice announced Wednesday they had filed a notice of intent to sue Maui County over alleged violations of the Clean Water Act at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui News.

The push to go green in Hawaii has reached the State Capitol. Employees are duking it out in the Battle of the Buildings - a national competition for the title of "most energy-efficient" workplace in the country. Hawaii News Now.

While Hawaii ranks low when compared to other states in terms of federal subsidies for farms, dozens of Hawaii farms and ranches have received funding from the federal government over the last 10 years. Hawaii Reporter.

Supporters of preserving Oahu’s ag land are preparing to rally against the proposed Hoopili Subdivision in the Honouliuli ahupuaa on the Ewa plains. The subdivision is being pushed by U.S. housing developer D.R. Horton Company. Honolulu Independent.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has prepared a new plan for managing the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge on Oahu's North Shore over the next 15 years. Associated Press.

A freshman senator's efforts to preserve undeveloped South Kona state property are culminating in a bill signing Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Each year, the military opens the doors to its commissaries and exchanges to local businesses. Pacific Business News.

A contractor who lost a bid to build part of Honolulu's planned rail line has appealed the decision to the state Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. Star-Advertiser.

This is the year, Maui County officials promised, that the Transportation Department will finally begin building proper shelters and benches at Maui Bus stops. Maui News.

Bullying in local schools was the focus of a Mental Health America of Hawai’i workshop. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Woman Files Lawsuit Over Osteoporosis Drug. KITV4.

Hawaii tourism rebounds, new Senate seat unlikely for Big Island, Abercrombie targets prison program, Kauai bids go online, more Hawaii news optimized for your smartphone

shark courtesy photo

Hawaii was the first in the world to ban possession of shark fins meaning shark fin soup will no longer be served in the state. Hawaii News Now

Hawaii's visitor industry continued rebounding in May, and the momentum is expected to build through summer. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will begin including nonresident members of the military when it redraws political districts, according to a Tuesday vote by the Hawaii Reapportionment Commission that likely denies the Big Island an additional state Senate seat. Associated Press.

Hawaii's 2011 Reapportionment Commission has voted 8-1 to include non-resident military personnel and their families as well as sentenced felons and college students as part of political district populations. Civil Beat.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced an ambitious effort to cut cost while reducing the number of inmates being sent to the mainland, lowering recidivism, and preventing crime. Hawaii News Now.

For the first time since the escape of four inmates from Waiawa Correctional Facility, the state's Department of Public Safety on Tuesday discussed the investigation. KITV4.

The state's decision to unilaterally impose a contract proposal with wage reductions for teachers is unprecedented in the islands and could prove a test case for future public employee union negotiations, local labor experts said. Star-Advertiser.

Rep. Bob Herkes said he's "obviously disappointed" that Gov. Neil Abercrombie intends to veto a bill that would create a vog task force comprised of state and county officials. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is appointing new deputy directors to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Department of Accounting and General Services. Associated Press.

An override of Mayor Billy Kenoi's council budget veto is unlikely, County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong told mauka Rotarians Tuesday afternoon. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island police say they've uncovered an unscrupulous and potentially dangerous online ploy that's targeting unsuspecting women.KHON2.

Nearly two years after driving while holding a cellphone was banned on Oahu, many motorists still have a hard time putting down the device and keeping both hands on the wheel. Star-Advertiser.

Deputy county attorney to run for prosecutor seat. Garden Island.

County officials announced Tuesday that solicitations for bids and related documents will be available online starting next month. Garden Island.

A Maui man believes he's set a record as the first person to make a solo crossing from the Big Island to Kauai on a stand-up paddleboard. Maui News.

Hawaii governor may veto 23 bills, Honolulu City Council vetoes bills, Big Island developer appeals LUC decision, teachers still unhappy, more top news from the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Abercrombie addresses Legislature (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Gov. Neil Abercrombie notified state House and Senate leaders on Monday that he may veto 23 bills, including a bill intended to protect the state's landmark Prepaid Health Care Act. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie on Monday identified 23 bills for possible veto. Civil Beat.

Governor Abercrombie Monday released a list of 23 bills that he may veto. Associated Press.

List of vetoes. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu City Council voted unanimously Monday morning in a special meeting to override some of Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle's vetoes in a battle over control of the budget for the city's $5.3 billion rail project. KITV4.

The handful of townhouses already built on the DW Aina Lea property in South Kohala will "rot on the hill" if the 3rd Circuit Court does not grant a motion to stay a Land Use Commission decision. West Hawaii Today.

The state Department of Education is moving to unilaterally put into effect its "last, best and final" contract offer to 12,700 public school teachers, and says pay and time-off provisions that amount to a 5 percent cut will take effect Friday. Star-Advertiser.

The state Department of Accounting and General Services last week issued a finding of no significant impact for its own proposed new Kona baseyard. West Hawaii Today.

State spending on legal advertisements will top $1 million annually by 2013 under new rates imposed by the Honolulu Star Advertiser since it became only daily newspaper on Oahu, according to state purchasing records. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai community members can now learn more about county Department of Water projects online. Garden Island.

Eighteen years ago, more than a thousand people gathered for the Independence Day celebration - and fireworks - at the Maui Country Club, recalled former club President John Vail. Maui News.

Hawaii cost of living going up with new laws, UH research studied, Army battles environment, dispute raises rail costs, teachers unions unhappy, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Nene geese (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The nene geese population at Kauai Lagoons has grown so fast and large the geese now are now considered the threat.  Associated Press.

The cost of living in Hawaii will edge upward on Friday as the new fiscal year begins and brings with it a rise in various state fees and taxes that were needed to help balance the budget in tough economic times. Star-Advertiser.

Some Oahu teachers said Sunday they don't want to strike, but it is not acceptable to ask them to take less pay and require them to contribute more for their health insurance. KITV4.

The Army is shifting at least some high-altitude helicopter training from Hawaii to Colorado — at a taxpayer cost of up to $11 million — following an additional environmental review imposed by the state. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie and University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood have both made much ado about the potential of university innovation to drive Hawaii's economy. Civil Beat.

A battle between the Honolulu city council and Mayor Peter Carlisle over who controls the purse for the rail project could cost taxpayers lots of money. KHON2.

It was a happy homecoming for some Hawaii-based soldiers. 135 soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division stationed at Schofield Barracks returned Sunday morning from a one-year tour in Iraq. Hawaii News Now.

The state water commission this week is due to consider an application from the City and County of Honolulu for permission to alter channels in four Oahu streams to accommodate a planned commuter rail line. Associated Press.

Department of Planning Director Will Spence said the most immediate and largest challenges ahead of him are finishing Maui's master plan and streamlining the Planning Department. Maui News.

With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, permits for firecrackers will be sold starting Wednesday, according to the Fire Department, and all types of fireworks go on sale the same day. Tribune-Herald.

Apart from the film festival, Molokai was by no means left off the county budget for projects ranging from parks to water supply. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii budget now law, cuts expected, Abercrombie town hall meeting and more news from the Hawaiian Islands

The Big Island recently became free of extreme drought for the first time in two years, but forecasters still expect below-normal rainfall levels through the fall. Tribune-Herald.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed into law Thursday a two-year, $21.9 billion state budget that increases spending to pay higher Medicaid, public worker health care and debt service costs but leaves him with the responsibility for making significant cuts to state programs. Star-Advertiser.

It was billed as "A Community Conversation with Governor Abercrombie." But to many in the overflow crowd who attended, it wasn't a conversation at all. Hawaii News Now.

Another round of severe budget cuts is being drawn up by Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s administration, with department heads being asked to identify $50 million in “fiscal constraints” by early next month. Hawaii Reporter.

By 6pm Thursday over 200 people had packed the Washington Middle School cafeteria wanting to hear from Governor Neil Abercrombie. KHON2.

A couple of frustrated voters interrupted Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s town hall meeting Thursday night, complaining about the state’s homeless problem. KITV4.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Thursday night that he would consider reappointing members of five boards and commissions who just last week he asked to resign. Civil Beat.

You may have to wait a little longer to retire here in Hawaii, thanks to a new bill Governor Abercrombie signed into law Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed into law a bill that makes sweeping changes to the state's underfunded pension system by reducing some government employees' benefits. Garden Island.

Local governments should be wary of depending too much on federal dollars to pay for community services, former Gov. George Ariyoshi warned Wednesday. Maui News.

Hawaii homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage may be eligible for a big chunk of federal assistance. West Hawaii Today.

A day after news broke about plans being canceled for a Makaha Valley "learning community" aimed at improving the lives of Leeward Coast residents, a new reason for the failure emerged. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii geothermal, Maui sewage sought as energy sources, Oahu surf rescues surge, dog fight law gets more bite, Abercrombie appointee controversy continues, Kauai bike path cycles upward, shipping rates going up, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo Farmers Market (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

It looks like Oahu’s mango season could be a bust for most people this year. The popular, locally-grown, tropical fruit is in very short supply. KITV4.

A Young Bros. rate increase request first filed in December is finally moving forward. West Hawaii Today.

The state has signed a new, three-year contract with Corrections Corporation of America to house up to 1,900 prison inmates at private prisons in Arizona. Hawaii Reporter.

Why did Gov. Neil Abercrombie choose to ask the members of only five of the more than 150 boards and commissions to resign? Civil Beat.

The chairman of the Aloha Stadium Authority expects as many as seven of its nine members to refuse Gov. Neil Abercrombie's request to resign.  Star-Advertiser.

After receiving a letter from Gov. Neil Abercrombie asking that he resign from the Hawaii Public Housing Authority, Wailea resident Travis Thompson said that he was considering his options but would likely stay at his post. Maui News.

Military personnel and visiting students shouldn't be counted in establishing new County Council districts because they aren't permanent Big Island residents. Tribune-Herald.

Kauai says the results of water quality tests from last year show the county's water meets all U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines for safe drinking water. Associated Press.

A new law is designed to crack down on dog fighting in Hawaii. Governor Neil Abercrombie signed Senate Bill 1069 on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

A plan to integrate educational facilities and affordable housing for a new community for underprivileged Leeward residents has fallen apart.  Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. is taking the first steps toward establishing geothermal energy as a means to meet West Hawaii's electrical needs. West Hawaii Today.

Lifeguards from the city Ocean Safety Division provided aid to hundreds of surfers and swimmers who attempted to brave the big waves on Oahu's southern and western shores Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The federal government remains committed to granting $1.55 billion for Honolulu's $5.3 billion planned rail project by October 2012. Star-Advertiser.

A developer's plans to build on more than 1,500 acres of West Oahu farmland has gained unanimous support from the Kapolei Neighborhood Board. Hawaii News Now.

Three days waiting for an answer became five months and $28,000 snowballed into $338,500 for an upcoming stretch of the county’s multi-use path in Kapa‘a.  Garden Island.

Not all Abercrombie appointees to resign, Honolulu wants police, firefighters to consider pay cut, thieves stealing tsunami warnings, lawsuits loom on rail, more news from the Hawaiian Islands

Polynesian canoe (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Seven double-hulled sailing canoes from Pacific island nations as far as New Zealand were scheduled to arrive on Maui this morning, as part of several visits in the Hawaiian Islands including Oahu, where they will participate in an environmental conference. Star-Advertiser.

The price tag for public employee and retiree health benefits has ballooned to $14 billion over the next three decades — and Hawaii taxpayers can expect to pay more taxes to cover the burden. Civil Beat.

At least one Big Island representative on a state board doesn't plan to give in to Gov. Neil Abercrombie's request to step down. West Hawaii Today.

Three state agency heads and two board members appointed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie weren't asked to voluntarily resign, unlike 27 of their colleagues who were appointed by former Gov. Linda Lingle. Star-Advertiser.

Federal education officials visited Honolulu this week to review well Hawaii is implementing its "Race to the Top" plans. Associated Press.

Honolulu is asking police and firefighters for pay cuts similar to what other public workers have already endured for the last two years. KITV4.

Hawaii Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed legislation aimed at expanding high-speed Internet access around the state. Associated Press.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed into law several bills concerning community property in divorces, animal cruelty, small claims and consumer contract law. Tribune-Herald.

The fight about who will have final say on spending decisions of the soon-to-be-formed Honolulu Authority for Rail Transportation could be headed to court, after Mayor Peter Carlisle vetoed the operating and construction budgets for the transit authority. Star-Advertiser.

Vandals at some Oahu beach parks have a new target: the large batteries that power many of the emergency sirens that warn residents of hurricanes, tsunamis and other disasters. Star-Advertiser.

Members of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative on Tuesday said they wish to clarify an important issue related to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s hydroelectic preliminary permitting process. Garden Island

Hawaii students face new graduation rules, Abercrombie appointee battle continues, Superferry for sale, UHH cutting classes,Transit Authority may lose budget, Hawaii County budget battles, more Hawaii news optimized for your smartphone

Hawaii Superferry (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The federal Maritime Administration has put up for public sale the two high-speed vessels formerly owned by the bankrupt Hawaii Superferry LLC. Star-Advertiser.

ALEC To Release ‘Rich States, Poor States’ Wednesday; Hawaii Listed as 46th Worst. Hawaii Reporter.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie's request that all 28 people he didn't appoint to five key boards and commissions step down has thrown the members into an uproar. Civil Beat.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Monday that his request that more than two dozen appointed members of state boards and commissions resign was not a reflection of their service or an issue of personalities. Star-Advertiser.

Will Hawaii care enough about deciding its political districts? Hawaii Independent.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed 15 measures into law. Associated Press.

As Hawaii residents prepare to pay more than double the vehicle weight tax fees and an 80 percent higher state vehicle registration fee, there's no guarantee the money will go for road maintenance. West Hawaii Today.

The University of Hawaii at Hilo has resorted to cutting classes to deal with an anticipated $4 million shortfall in state funding. Tribune-Herald.

Every public high school student in Hawaii would have to pass geometry and complete two lab sciences under more rigorous graduation requirements proposed as the state Department of Education continues to fine-tune its diploma policy. Star-Advertiser.

A little more than a week before the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation takes office, a battle looms as Mayor Peter Carlisle is expected to veto the agency's budget passed by the City Council. Star-Advertiser.

County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong has called an emergency meeting Friday to vote on whether the council should hire an outside attorney to verify the legality of the county budget. West Hawaii Today.

Last-minute executive actions by a county administration that shares legal staff with the County Council are apparently hampering the council's ability to do its work, a situation that could lead to changes sought in the Hawaii County Charter. West Hawaii Today.

Members of the Hawaii-based guided missile frigate USS Reuben James received a warm welcome when they returned to Pearl Harbor Monday morning. KITV4.

A new formula is causing some confusion about Hawaii's bottomfish catch limit. Hawaii News Now.

The state is considering new emergency rules for the Kaneohe sandbar. KHON2.

In the first large-scale project of its kind on Oahu, three plant varieties were planted in a Waialua field Monday morning. KITV4.

The state Department of Transportation will discuss alternatives Wednesday evening to protect the shoreline of Kahului Harbor and to shield a segment of Kahului Beach Road from erosion. Maui News.

The dry, white mudflats at Kanaha Pond Wildlife Sanctuary will eventually be wet again, when the state Division of Forestry and Wildlife replaces a pump that keeps the wetland wet. Maui News.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Hawaii Host Committee needs about 1,200 volunteers in place by next month. Associated Press.

The Fourth of July is still two weeks away, but if you want to celebrate Independence Day on Oahu with firecrackers, you have just a few more days to get a permit. KHON2.

The Mission Houses Museum is hosting a year-long series of lectures, storytelling and tours on Legends, Myths and Fables. Hawaii Public Radio.

Two East Oahu legislators are appealing to the owners of Koko Marina CenterbizWatch and FoodlandbizWatch to reconsider the decision to replace the supermarket with a drugstore chain. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian spirit has no standing in Mauna Kea telescope case, Abercrombie cronies get contract,lobbyists spend $2.5M, Maui taxes decrease, Hawaii farmworker trafficker to get new charges, Hawaii news now optimized for your smartphone

Marines at Pohakuloa Training Area (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The top U.S. Army commander in the Pacific wants to be sure Hawaii-based soldiers have alternate locations for live-fire training before he’ll write off using Makua -- a valley many Native Hawaiians consider sacred -- for that purpose. Associated Press.

The Pearl Harbor-based guided-missile frigate USS Reuben James is coming home after a five month-long deployment to Asia. Associated Press.

The state last month awarded a $186,387 consulting contract to a company with close political ties to Gov. Neil Abercrombie after rejecting another company’s $96,000 bid because it was submitted 11 minutes late.Hawaii Reporter.

Lobbying organizations in Hawaii spent $2,548,277 to influence lawmakers in just 120 days, from Jan. 1 through April 30, according to figures compiled by the Hawaii State Ethics Commission. Civil Beat.

A guardian spirit of Mauna Kea should not have standing in a pending contested case hearing regarding the Thirty Meter Telescope, a hearings officer found. Tribune-Herald.

Federal prosecutors want to introduce new allegations during the trial for the owners of Aloun Farms that they had a history of subjecting impoverished Thai agricultural laborers to oppressive working and living conditions. Star-Advertiser.

As property taxes have gone down for homeowners in Maui County, data released by the county Finance Department show that an increasing number pay the minimum tax of just $150 per year. Maui News.

Sam Slom, Hawaii's only Republican senator, visited Kona Saturday to give his take on the legislative session that has just passed -- and he wasn't too impressed. West Hawaii Today.

A Honolulu man convicted of slugging his 14-year-old stepson in the face and breaking his nose should have been allowed to raise the defense that he was disciplining the teenager, a divided Hawaii Supreme Court ruled this month. Star-Advertiser.

The final phase for a potential change to Kalaupapa’s air service has begun – three airlines have bid to serve the community with promises to lower airfare, and the comment period from the public ended last week. Molokai Dispatch

Kaua‘i residents who reside north of Anahola Bay on ‘Aliomanu Road have dealt with driving on a narrow strip of asphalt along the coast for years. Garden Island.

If the Nanakuli Neighborhood Board has its way, food and other vendors may be allowed at a popular beach park along the Leeward Oahu coast. Hawaii News Now.

Food trucks are quickly becoming the staple of street corners and they're one of the hottest trends in Hawaii. KHON2.

Drug policy reform advocates in Hawaii joined 15 other states in marking the 40th anniversary of the federal government’s war on drugs. KITV4.

Civil Beat will open a Washington, D.C., office next month, making it the only Hawaii-based news organization with a full-time reporter in the nation's capital. Civil Beat.

The Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project is dedicated to recovering Maui’s endangered forest birds. Hawaii Public Radio.

Getting the first glimpses of the new ShirokiyabizWatch Yataimura, or food village, earlier this week really highlighted just how important food concessions are to Shirokiya’s brand name and its entire operation. Pacific Business News.

Stephen Yamashiro's visionary genius made him a Pro Bowl savior, hula ally and even Hawaii County's greatest mayor, friends, along with a few past adversaries, said in remembering him Saturday. Tribune-Herald.