State probes gun deal, Hawaii school lunch price up, Honolulu approves APEC cams, Maui to increase vacation rentals, Big Island HR director golfs with employee he may fire, Kauai missile test a success, more Hawaii news

marine scientist (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A nonbinding, but nonetheless controversial, resolution seeking a statewide ban on aquarium fish collecting passed the Hawaii County Council 6-2 Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Three hundred fifty brand new pistols and holsters have been stuck in storage at the state Department of Public Safety's headquarters for an entire year, while an investigation into the gun deal with Smith & Wesson begins to intensify. Hawaii News Now.

A letter obtained by KHON2 dated July of last year details a deal between gun maker Smith & Wesson and the Hawaii State Sheriffs Department to trade out 350 existing duty issued pistols for 350 new pistols. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tax Review Commission is soliciting the services of a consultant to study the fairness of Hawaii’s tax system and recommend changes, including the possible elimination of personal and corporate income taxes. Hawaii Reporter.

Abercrombie Takes Tamer Tack After Pro Bowl Gaffe. Civil Beat.

The state is seeking an 85-cent increase to the price of a school lunch under a plan that would bring the cost for a high school student to $3.35, more than double what students paid in 2006. Star-Advertiser.

Members of the state Reapportionment Commission are giving themselves more time to study a revised plan for staggering the terms for new state Senate districts so that about half come up for re-election every two years. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority said Wednesday that it has canceled a request for proposals for the contract to market Hawaii to Europe’s major market and is extending its marketing contract with AVIAREPS Tourism for one more year. Pacific Business News.

The Aloha for Japan campaign formally ended Tuesday after exceeding $8 million in contributions. Associated Press.

Oahu

The City Council has approved the use of 34 new video cameras — some of which already have been installed — to enhance security during next month's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Waikiki. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Coast Guard began meeting with residents of the Ala Wai boat harbor this week, giving them a heads up about restrictions during the three-day Veteran's holiday weekend when the APEC meeting is scheduled. KITV4.

Is Honolulu Police Protection Now For Sale? Civil Beat.

Parents of school aged children on the North Shore hope to a see a charter school opened soon that would accommodate 100 seventh- and eighth-grade students. Hawaii Independent.

Hawai’I’s largest public housing project is undergoing a major renovation over the next two years in the state’s first public-private partnership. Hawaii Public Radio.

A $135 million renovation project at what was known for nearly 50 years as Kuhio Park Terrace has generated a sense of pride for those who call the area home. Residents are starting to return to their newly-renovated units, at what is now called the Towers of Kuhio Park. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County administrator ultimately responsible for disciplining employees has been golfing with a worker he may be asked to fire. Tribune-Herald.

Legal Morass Raises Questions About Charter School Independence. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii County Council is continuing to debate modifications to the state building code, with last-minute amendments Wednesday forcing yet another postponement of the complex document. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council, by a 7-0 vote, agreed Wednesday to a charter amendment setting aside 2 percent of county property taxes to purchase land for public access, open space and natural resources preservation. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council members moved closer Monday toward making it easier to legalize short-term rentals outside of resort districts, as long as they are closely monitored in the county's neighborhoods. Maui News.

The latest report from the U.S. Geological Survey shows that stream flow in Maui County and statewide is below normal and mostly "much below normal," the second-lowest category ranging from low to high. Maui News.

Kauai
A missile defense system successfully intercepted two targets at the same time during a test in Hawaii, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency said Wednesday. Associated Press.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative on Wednesday announced its intent to pursue the development of a 10-megawatt solar farm, which would be the largest of its kind in the state. Garden Island.

The public is invited to share their ideas during community meetings on the six sites recommended for acquisition by the Public Access, Open Space and Natural Resources Preservation Fund Commission in its 2010 annual report to the county. Garden Island.

Hawaii Civil Defense chief quits in protest, Honolulu preps for APEC, still clearing homeless, state seeks inventory of land, natives, Hawaii County pushes vote by mail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Mauna Kea telescopes courtesy photo

This is the first time that a Nobel Prize has been awarded for astronomy on Mauna Kea. Associated Press.

Sen. Daniel Inouye confirmed to Civil Beat Tuesday that he hopes that Rep. Mazie Hirono will defeat former Congressman Ed Case in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate next year. Civil Beat.

Ed Teixeira, who served as state Civil Defense Division vice director for 12 years through seven federally declared major disasters and under three governors, said a proposed organizational change and complaints about his management style are the basis for his sudden resignation Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Vice Director of Hawaii State Civil Defense abruptly resigned Tuesday morning. KITV4.

The state will put on hold a statewide review of schools for possible consolidation while the Board of Education studies the best way to determine whether a campus should be considered for closure. Star-Advertiser.

What was supposed to be a routine revote on Hawaii's graduation policy Tuesday turned into a showdown between school board members and the Department of Education. Civil Beat.

As part of the latest efforts to fight bullying, a series of student-produced public service announcements promoting safe schools will be hitting the airwaves. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii prisoners are growing 25 percent of the produce consumed at the state’s seven prisons. Civil Beat.

State Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz isn't surprised that the state of Hawaii does not have an accurate inventory of lands in the public trust. Tribune-Herald.

A new $6 million round of venture capital funding will provide a major push in the campaign to develop commercial applications for research being done at the University of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council is set to decide on whether to install surveillance cameras across Oahu for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit. Associated Press.

State officials spent $180,000 in manpower and an additional $20,000 in disposal fees to clear 90 homeless people and more than 60 truckloads of their belongings from the H-1 freeway viaduct in August through September. Star-Advertiser.

The city cleared out a homeless camp in Haleiwa on Monday, a move they say will only force them to another area where they'll likely be more visible. KHON2.

If Honolulu City councilmembers approve turning over the city traffic cameras to Police to help with APEC security, city officials are planning to use other tools to get information out about traffic tie-ups. KITV4.

Boaters at the Ala Wai harbor have some big decisions to make in the next few weeks. Hawaii News Now.

The dismissal of criminal charges against topless protestors Jamie and Tess Meier shows the need for improved police training in advance of expected protests at the APEC conference next month, the ACLU said today. Hawaii Reporter.

Professional Training Hawaii LLC was issued a notice of violation and order from the state Department of Health for multiple violations of Hawaii’s asbestos training and certification regulations. Pacific Business News.

The Army's study of live-fire training effects on marine life harvested for food near Makua Valley "was a meaningful evaluation" except for two ways, a federal judge in Honolulu ruled. Associated Press.

The non-profit Kanu-Hawaii conducted its Eat Local Challenge last month. Nearly 600 people signed up to choose island grown over imported food …even if it costs more. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

A resolution seeking a pilot vote-by-mail program for Hawaii County advanced in a County Council committee Tuesday over the objections of a minority worried it would limit voter choices. West Hawaii Today.

Having already banned transgenic taro, smoking in parks and texting while driving, the County Council now has deer in its headlights. Tribune-Herald.

Drought conditions in most of West Hawaii are likely to continue, a hydrologist at the National Weather Service said. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

With the nisei veterans of World War II slowly passing into history, those who care about them have focused their efforts on honoring their legacy and chronicling their fight for their country and Japanese-Americans everywhere so that future generations will remember their "go for broke" heroism and their impact on the nation and the world. Maui News.

Kauai
Last year former Kaua‘i County Council Chair Kaipo Asing, finishing his last term as a council member after 28 years of public service, noted that some real estate developers are clever in the ways they find loopholes in laws. Garden Island.

Tuesday was a time of thanks and aloha at the site of the former Kekaha Sugar Mill. Garden Island.

New Hawaii program aims to stem foreclosure, from Wall Street to Hilo-Town, Kauai losing sugar mills, Maui looks to small farms, holiday pay due Hawaii County workers on leave, more news from the islands

Hilo protest (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

About 100 residents in Hilo joined like-minded citizens across the country Monday as they stood up and showed their support for the Occupy Wall Street campaign that began three weeks ago in New York City. Tribune-Herald.

Over 4,800 miles from New York City on the Big Island of Hawaii, residents inspired to demonstrate in support of the Occupy Wall Street movement lined roads on either side of the moku. Big Island Video News.

(c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A small group of what some bystanders described as "graying hippies" gathered outside the Merrill Lynch building in Hilo, Hawaii, on Monday afternoon to back the "Occupy Wall Street" movement that has been building and spreading to other cities since it started in New York City two weeks ago. Hawaii Reporter.


They've paid their debt to society, but many Hawaii ex-convicts are now having trouble finding a job to pay off their other debts. KITV4.

Hawaii on Monday introduced a mortgage foreclosure dispute resolution program that will allow owner-occupants with homes in nonjudicial foreclosure to have the opportunity to meet directly with their lenders. Pacific Business News.

Local homeowners facing foreclosure now have options based on a recently enacted law. Hawaii Public Radio

Homeowners facing foreclosure now have another way to try to stay in their homes. KHON2.

Daniel Inouye's Guide To Getting Elected. Civil Beat.

Last week, consumer advocacy group Food & Water Watch released documents obtained from Hawaii Governor Neil Abercrombie’s office that shed light on the governor’s recent position reversal in support of a controversial fish farming bill. Hawaii Independent.

The number of adult community schools would shrink to four from 11, and students would have to pay $20 or more for classes that are now free, under a plan to save adult education services that would also require the state to restore more than half of the $5 million in funding cut from the program for next year. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Waianae-area residents still can't be certain whether seafood they harvest off their shore is safe from dangerous levels of arsenic and lead. Civil Beat.

Buoys went up this morning to keep swimmers at bay while city crews remove hazardous pieces of the Natatorium's aging sea wall. Hawaii News Now.

T.J. Maxx, the national discount retailer, will fill the second floor of the Ward Village Shops, and Ward Centers will get a $3 million face lift as the property owner studies plans for a major redevelopment of Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii
A South Kona property owner's protest of a county land acquisition has hit the end of the road. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County employees on unpaid leave -- even for disciplinary reasons -- must nonetheless be paid for holidays, the Intermediate Court of Appeals ruled last week. West Hawaii Today.

State and county officials used federal funds to put new numbers in an old North Kohala agricultural park plan that could be exempted from county zoning and subdivision rules. West Hawaii Today.

University of Hawaii Sea Grant College Program will close its Kailua-Kona office by Nov. 1. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Over the last five years, an independent contractor who annually inspected a troubled state affordable housing project on Maui made only passing references to the ever-rising vacancy rate at the complex, according to copies of the inspection reports. Hawaii Reporter.

While there may be fewer examples of the traditional, larger family farm on Maui than there once were, more people apparently are specializing in growing vegetables and breeding exotic birds and other livestock on a small scale. Maui News.

Kauai

The future doesn’t look sweet for Kekaha and Lihu‘e sugar mills. The asbestos-laden ghosts of a bygone plantation era are slated for destruction, more than a decade after the end of their productive lives. Garden Island.

Pioneer Hi-Bred opens doors to the public. Garden Island.

News release: Hawaii public schools to offer surfing as an official sport

Abercrombie and friend (c) Ricky Li

HONOLULU – Hawaii public high school students will for the first time be able to compete in school sanctioned surf competitions as early as the spring of 2013, under a plan announced today by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, the Hawaii State Board and Department of Education and professional surfer Carissa Moore.

Working with the appointed Hawaii State Board of Education, the DOE is developing a plan to incorporate surfing in school athletics, with collaboration from city officials, surfing organizations and the community.

“Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. From Duke Kahanamoku to the thousands of residents and visitors who surf both recreationally and competitively, the sport is rooted in our culture and way of life,” said Abercrombie. “Bringing surfing to our students is another step in our collective goal to transform public education and provide our children with rich and diverse educational opportunities.”

“Surfing will be an exciting addition for our students as we continue to expand and improve educational programs to increase student achievement,” Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi said. “School sports teach critical life lessons such as team work and goal-setting while helping students stay active and healthy.”

The Hawaii State Board of Education in May 2004 approved surfing – the official individual sport of the state of Hawaii – as a high school sport. Despite overwhelming support from parents and students, funding and other challenges have kept surfing from becoming a fully-fledged school sport.

The BOE and the DOE are working on an implementation blueprint to make competitive school surfing a reality. The DOE intends to support the sport with outside funding sources and consult community partners and city officials to ensure that surf breaks are shared equitably and safely. The BOE will support implementation processes that address safety.

BOE member Keith Amemiya, a former executive director of the Hawaii High School Athletic Association, said surfing will allow students to learn about their environment and themselves. He said it also will engage the community by fostering relationships and partnerships with a new group of individuals and groups.

“Surfing is a unique sport that often attracts athletes that may not necessarily be interested in more traditional sports such as football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Therefore, we're confident that surfing will increase athletics participation numbers,” Amemiya said. “In our view, the more students that engage in athletics and other after school activities, the higher our student achievement rates will become.”

Hawaii’s Carissa Moore, who this summer became the youngest surfer ever to win a professional surfing world title at age 18, joined Governor Abercrombie and education officials in celebrating today’s announcement.

"It will open doors for a lot of students," she said, explaining that surfing taught her important life skills such as to be perseverant, manage time, and be organized.

The BOE and DOE will continue to discuss a plan to implement surfing as a high school sport during the Board’s General Business Meeting tomorrow, Oct. 4, starting at 2:15 p.m. at the Queen Liliuokalani Building.

Schools fight bullying, add surfing, public lands board defies Sunshine Law, Honolulu council seeks quiet, Maui groups fight Halloween celebration, Kauai solar farm advances, Kona gears up for Ironman, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Beachwalk (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

'Bummer of a Summer' for Hawaii's Visitor Industry. Civil Beat.

DOE Travels To D.C. To Discuss No Child Left Behind. Hawaii Public Radio.

A couple of members of Gov. Neil Abercrombie's security detail are under investigation after allegations of improper overtime, favoritism and even prostitution. KITV4.

Surfing is headed for official recognition as a high school sport. KHON2.

The state will unveil a new campaign to fight bullying and cyberbullying in schools Tuesday that will include more training for educators, better efforts to identify and help kids who are bullied, and increased outreach to stop bullying before it starts. Star-Advertiser.

The state's new public lands board isn't doing so well when it comes to keeping the public informed.  Civil Beat.

Redrawn districts do not faze officials. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council wants to regulate the amount of noise that is forced on the innocent public. Pacific Business News.

Two former military doctors are asking Hawaii-based Marines not to operate on pigs and goats during combat trauma training this week. Associated Press.

Hawaii

University of Hawaii at Hilo administrators hope a half-million-dollar grant will help improve technology and Internet services on campus. Tribune-Herald.

Tomotaka Takahashi's description of a humanoid robot feels a little like a modern retelling of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." West Hawaii Today.

On a picture-perfect Saturday, several hundred people soaked up the sun, fun, food and aloha at the second World Peace Festival at Coconut Island in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui itself a brand: Local trades thrive in hard times. Maui News.

The County of Maui has reached a resolution regarding the purchase of $32 million in student loan auction rate securities from Merrill Lynch. Hawaii Reporter.

A group of Native Hawaiian leaders and Lahaina residents declared this week that they want their concerns to be heard before Halloween resumes in Lahaina this month. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i’s largest solar farm should be ready to harvest clean energy in 2012 if the county Planning Commission approves the Alexander & Baldwin project proposal as expected. Garden Island.


Molokai

DHS Molokai Office Increases Staff. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii IT needs work, PUC nixes HECO biofuel deal, Kauai council doesn't require solar water heaters, Big Island redistricting road show begins, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki natatorium (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

A comprehensive assessment of Hawaii state government's information technology infrastructure reveals a system suffering from lack of investment and multiple inefficiencies. But it also suggests ways to improve it. Civil Beat.

A consultant hired to assess the state's information technology systems found that many state services are not being performed or were less timely because of excessive backlogs, a lack of staff and an absence of technical support. Star-Advertiser.

The latest disaster declaration signed by Gov. Neil Abercrombie was a long time in the making, state records and interviews show. Hawaii Reporter.

The Institute for Human Services saw a nearly 13 percent increase in people using Hawaii's largest emergency shelter last year, but donations are down and badly needed federal and state money will dry up after December. Star-Advertiser.

The state Public Utilities Commission denied Thursday Hawaiian Electric Co.’s biodiesel supply contract with Aina Koa Pono LLC, according to a PUC docket. Pacific Business News.

State regulators rejected Thursday a controversial plan by Hawaiian Electric Co. to buy 16 million gallons of locally produced biofuel a year for electricity generation, saying the high cost of the alternative fuel was too much for ratepayers to bear. Star-Advertiser.

The state Reapportionment Commission has scheduled a special meeting next week to correct an error in the way the state's 25 Senate districts were split into two- and four-year terms, affecting two districts. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Hawaiian Electric Co. announced Thursday it has signed a deal to buy up to 150,000 gallons of locally made algae-based biofuel to burn in its Kahe Generating Station as part of the utility's shift away from its reliance on fossil fuels. Star-Advertiser.

Inouye's Committee Recommends Reinstating East-West Center Funds. Civil Beat.

Honolulu has decided to the crumbling seawall around the historic Waikiki war memorial is enough of a threat to require immediate action. KITV4.

It’s time for the City and County of Honolulu to decide what it wants to do with the aging and crumbling Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial. Pacific Business News.

The first-ever National Diabetes Symposium is being conducted in Honolulu. Hawaii Public Radio.

A long anticipated project to slow erosion at Kailua Beach has stalled. Hawaii News Now.

Discussion underway to fix flooding issues on the Waianae coast. KHON2.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County redistricting roadshow begins Saturday with six sample maps depicting how new County Council district lines could be drawn. West Hawaii Today.

With a Hawaiian blessing and the untying of a maile lei, the Keaukaha Military Reservation's Armed Forces Reserve Center was opened for business Thursday in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Damage to Kona Village Resort from the March tsunami reached into the tens of millions of dollars, CEO Patrick Fitzgerald said Thursday, but he is certain the iconic hotel will open again. West Hawaii Today.

Anyone caught importing live axis deer to Hawaii Island could end up spending a year in jail, according to a bill pending before the County Council. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has given final approval to Maui County's consent order that requires it to improve the treatment of sewage at the Lahaina Wastewater Treatment Plant before it is disposed of in injection wells. Maui News.

While Hawaii's visitor industry was breathing a sigh of relief that March's earthquake and tsunami in Japan did not seem to have affected tourism for long, it seems that another aftereffect of the disaster is still beating on island shores. Maui News.

Kauai

The County Council’s Intergovernmental Relations Committee on Wednesday unanimously rejected a proposal to address a variance in a 2004 state law that mandates new homes be equipped with solar-powered water heaters. Garden Island.

Naval Facilities Engineering Command Hawai‘i completed its final inspection on Sept. 20 for a photovoltaic (PV) system at Pacific Missile Range Facility, which is expected to generate 760 kilowatts of continuous power during the day when it is fully online. Garden Island.

Molokai

DHS Molokai Office Increases Staff. Molokai Dispatch.

New rental car tax nets $5M, Honolulu cleaning streets of homeless, Maui lures tourists, movie-makers, geothermal pitched for Big Island, hydroelectric for Kauai, top Hawaii government and politics news for web and smartphone

Humpback whale NOAA courtesy photo

A confirmed appearance of a humpback whale in Honaunau Bay this week marked the anticipated return of the gentle giants to Hawaii, as well as a reminder for all ocean users to keep a safe distance. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii’s leaders say allowing more visitors from a growing group of ready to spend Chinese holds enormous economic potential for destinations like Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Higher Rental Car Fee Generates Extra $5 Million. Civil Beat.

State Budget Solutions in its analysis of state budget trends during the past decade – reports that Hawaii is number 47 out of all 50 states in the “total of the state expenditures in a given fiscal year encompassing all state funds.” Hawaii Reporter.

What Super Committee's Automatic Cuts Would Mean for Hawaii. Civil Beat.

The federal government spent more than $20 billion in Hawai‘i for the first time last year. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A bill being introduced by Honolulu City Council members is expected to make it easier for city officials to remove the property of the homeless and others from sidewalks and parks. Star-Advertiser.

The Honolulu City Council Budget Committee deliberated today on a resolution asking for new bids to build rail-cars for the city’s mass transit system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu's unemployment rate rose to 5.5 percent in August from 5.4 percent in July, causing the city to lose ground in a ranking of metropolitan areas with the nation's lowest jobless rates, according to a report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

For many Kapahulu residents and lawmakers Wednesday night was a chance to see for the first time conceptual plans for a new office building on Charles street adjacent to Leonard's bakery. KHON2.

It is a bittersweet day for customers as another mom-and-pop restaurant closes its doors, but the closure wasn't due to the tough economy. KITV4.

City vehicles that were set to be scrapped by Oahu Transit Services have instead been converted into HPD paddy wagons in preparation for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in early November. KHON2.

Hawaii

Hawaii's dismal voter turnout could be improved by allowing people to vote by mail, said South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford in introducing a resolution asking the state Legislature to set up a pilot program in Hawaii County. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island residents aggrieved with the Reapportionment Commission's decision to deny Hawaii Island a fourth Senate seat are making good on their threat to have the Hawaii Supreme Court decide the issue. Tribune-Herald.

Developing a public-private partnership to produce geothermal energy on Hawaii Island could lead to a $1.25 million annual public benefit, a geothermal development company stressed Wednesday evening in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii's fastest-growing island is getting more police officers to patrol its swelling neighborhoods. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii Army National Guard and Army Reserves are holding a blessing for their new joint complex in Hilo Thursday. Associated Press.

Maui

Maui County must fully disinfect all wastewater at the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility under a consent order with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Pacific Business News.

The new visitor industry marketing campaign is just beginning to reach the public, but in test views on the Mainland, the reaction has been just what was hoped for, Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau Executive Director Terryl Vencl told the Maui Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday. Maui News.

From producers and scriptwriters to casting consultants to contractors who rent pump trucks to empty the portapotties on location shoots, the nucleus of Maui's permanent film production business filled Kahului Community Center on Monday night. Maui News.

Kauai

Free Flow Power is preparing for its first round of community outreach meetings on its proposed hydroelectric projects for Garden Isle waterways on behalf of Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative. Garden Island.

Molokai

In what appears to be a clash of Hawaiian and western cultures, some Molokai residents are upset that boaters who come to the island as escorts for canoe and other races are catching fish and taking other seafood from coastal waters. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Supreme Court: teachers can strike, Lingle behind GOP coup, HGEA backs Hirono, Army to train on Mauna Kea, shipping prices drop, coral in danger, government and politics news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court building (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

The state Supreme Court rejected Tuesday a request by the Hawaii State Teachers Association to compel the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to issue a quick ruling on whether teachers deserve immediate relief from a new two-year contract imposed by the state. Star-Advertiser.

The Supreme Court of Hawaii has ruled that the teachers union has the right to strike once its current complaint before the Labor Relations Board is resolved. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Government Employees Association, the state's largest public-sector labor union, has endorsed U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

Jonah-Kuhio Kalanianaole Kaauwai 's decision to resign as chair of the Hawaii Republican Party yesterday is a victory for former Gov. Linda Lingle, and her followers, but not necessarily for local conservatives. Hawaii Reporter.

A closer examination of party finances under former chair Jonah Kaauwai shows that the Hawaii Republican Party owes tens of thousand of dollars for unpaid credit card bills and political mailers. Civil Beat.

The new chairwoman of the Maui County Republican Party said that while Jonah Kaauwai demonstrated he was a "very hardworking" and "admirable" person, his inability to raise money for campaigns led to his resignation Monday as chairman of the Hawaii Republican Party. Maui News.

Hawaii Congressional Delegation Hosts Fundraiser for House Hopeful Tammy Duckworth. Hawaii Reporter.

Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines lowered its fuel surcharge Tuesday by 3 percentage points. Pacific Business News.

The commission overseeing how the Department of Education spent federal stimulus money learned Tuesday that $115 million of it paid for teacher salaries. Hawaii News Now.

The University of Hawaii is proposing tuition increases for the entire state system beginning next year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A City Council committee has put its stamp of approval on the installation of 34 security cameras across key sections of Oahu in preparation for the arrival of 21 world leaders and their entourages for this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperative summit in Waikiki in November. Star-Advertiser.

Efforts made last week by members of Oahu’s North Shore community resulted in a stop to a proposed redistricting that would have made the Sunset Beach area a part of the Koolauloa district. Hawaii Independent.

Rail Transit Town Hall Meeting Draws Crowd. KITV4.

Hundreds of postal workers and their supporters converged at the state capitol, one of nearly 500 such rallies across the country Tuesday. KHON2.

Hawaii

A settlement reached Tuesday requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Fisheries Service to decide in about seven months whether 82 coral species will be listed as endangered or threatened. West Hawaii Today.

The state granted the Army a short-term "right-of-entry" permit to conduct high-altitude helicopter training on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on Hawaii island next month, but said if the service wants to do the training in the future, it needs to do a full state environmental impact statement, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

A geothermal development company seeking a private-public partnership for energy production on Hawaii Island will hold community meetings this week. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island business and tourism officials told state senators how the Hilo side was wasting its visitor industry potential. Tribune-Herald.

County Planning Director Bobby Jean Leithead Todd issued a preliminary subdivision plan approval for the Villages at Aina Lea, despite the revocation of the property's urban land use classification. West Hawaii Today.

Christmas is coming early for lower Puna residents wanting to participate in the legislative branch of local government. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

For now it looks like F&H Construction has won the contract to build the new Kihei Police Station, according to county Department of Finance Director Danny Agsalog. Maui News.

The inaugural flight of an emergency medical helicopter to Maui Memorial Medical Center's new $3 million helipad drew more than two dozen people Monday afternoon. Maui News.

Kauai
A controversial county Salary Commission resolution squeezed through a special Kaua‘i County Council meeting Tuesday and is on track to become law next week after a split vote. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i County Councilman Mel Rapozo on Tuesday afternoon filed a complaint with the county Board of Ethics, requesting an advisory opinion on the actions of Boards and Commissions Administrator John Isobe and the county Salary Commission. Garden Island.

Hawaii political maps finalized, GOP fallout, budget cuts for HHSC, Honolulu tax hike mulled, Maui shoppers adjust to plastic bag ban, Kauai seabird suit dropped, TNT hearings to conclude, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii GOP chair Jonah Kaauwai courtesy photo

Jonah Kaauwai, the embattled chair of the Hawaii Republican Party, has stepped down. Civil Beat.

Hawaii GOP In Dire Financial Need. Civil Beat.

Hawaii County groups that say their island deserves a fourth seat in the state Senate are challenging the constitutionality of new maps for the state's political boundaries approved Monday by the state Reapportionment Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Redistricting Panel Deals One Senator Bad Hand. Civil Beat.

The State Reapportionment Commission voted on its final redistricting plans today. Hawaii Public Radio.

The state attorney general's office now says three children died of abuse in Hawaii's Child Welfare Services system in the past decade — not one, as legislators were told last week — and some child advocates were stunned Monday to learn that deaths in state custody are not reported in Hawaii's Child Death Review. Star-Advertiser.

China's outbound travel market to the U.S. could grow to 5 million visitors in 2015 from less than 1 million last year if visa restrictions are loosened and more direct flights are added. Star-Advertiser.

Filling the tourist hole: Industry buffs look to big spenders from far away. Hawaii Independent.

Data from PV study isn't surprising, but still important. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

It's a controversial idea - raising the state’s general excise tax in order to create better commuting options for Oahu residents. KHON2.

The Honolulu City Council is expected to take action on a controversial video monitoring proposal leading up to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation conference in November. Hawaii News Now.

USPS rally to be held at state capitol Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu District staff teamed up with the City and County of Honolulu Storm Water Quality Branch, State Department of Health’s Wastewater Branch and Clean Water Branch, Punahou School Mamiya Science Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Hawaii Nature Center and more than 100 Anuenue School students Sept. 22 as part of Oahu’s annual World Water Monitoring Day activities in the Makiki watershed. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu residents brace for the first round of traffic slowdowns from the rail transit project. KITV4.

Hawaii

Kona Community Hospital must cut about $1.1 million from its budget this year, after the governor's office ordered Hawaii Health Systems Corp. to cut payroll costs by 5 percent. West Hawaii Today.

Opponents of the Thirty Meter Telescope rested their case on Monday after a three-hour hearing that featured a lengthy cross-examination of Kealoha Pisciotta. Tribune-Herald.

Overwhelmingly negative comments from Big Island residents were "inadvertently omitted" from a recently published Kahuku Village draft environmental impact statement.West Hawaii Today.

By the end of August, Hilo Harbor had welcomed about 9,000 more cruise ship passengers to East Hawaii than it had at the same time last year. Tribune-Herald.

In preparation for its upcoming deployment, the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade (CAB) recently conducted a Culminating Training Event (CTE).  The CTE allowed the 25th CAB and its subordinate battalions to train on mission critical tasks in order to increase their mission readiness. Hawaii Reporter.

Maui

More people are declining an offer of a paper bag at local markets as 30 percent of Maui County residents are now bringing their own reusable bags when they go shopping, according to a county study. Maui News.

Each year since just after WWII, they gather on Maui to remember their fallen brothers in arms and husbands, and each year they say there are fewer of them - members of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team - the most highly decorated unit in U.S. military history. Maui News.

Kauai

Conservation groups are dropping a federal lawsuit they filed against Kauai’s electric utility after deciding the company is taking important steps to protect threatened seabirds. Star-Advertiser.

Conservation groups on Monday dismissed the federal lawsuit they filed last year against Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative for violations of the Endangered Species Act. Garden Island.

The state has severed its relationship with Kauai Independent Food Bank, choosing instead to recommend that another agency, the Hawaii Foodbank-Kauai Branch, receive federal support to distribute food to agencies on the island for needy families. Star-Advertiser.

Five veterans of the 100th Infantry Battalion were joined by a host of dignitaries, veterans, family members and spouses at the 66th Memorial Service commemorating not only fallen veterans of the 100th Battalion, but other veterans of all wars. Garden Island.

Groups eye Hawaii geothermal potential, Obama's mother Dunham gets museum exhibit, Japanese-American WWII vets honored, Honolulu rapid transit takes road show, domestic violence on Maui and more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kilauea Volcano (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Some officials think the Big Island could become the next Brunei, a small nation on the island of Borneo made extremely wealthy by its energy exports. West Hawaii Today.

Millions of dollars could be at stake in an emerging dispute over who owns the mineral rights to Hawaiian home lands that are being considered for the development of geothermal energy. Civil Beat.

The brave scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory have shared another round of compelling volcano video. Big Island Video News.

Should native Hawaiians living on Hawaiian Home Lands, or state lands set aside for native Hawaiians with a 50 percent or higher blood quantum, pay a lower property tax rate than other Hawaii residents? Hawaii Reporter.

Sunday's service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl recognized four World War II units, which were segregated for Japanese-Americans during the war: the 100th Infantry Battalion, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the Military Intelligence Service and the 1,399th Engineer Construction Battalion. Star-Advertiser.

In a disturbing parallel, China in 2011 seems to have started down the same warpath that led Japan to attack the United States at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Civil Beat.

Years of economic downturn and the resulting cuts to invasive species spending are having consequences in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Class requirements are increasing for Hawaii’s high school students. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

President Barack Obama's mother, Stanley Ann Dunham, is recognized for her work as an anthropologist in Indonesia. KITV4.

Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning LLC on Friday signed a 55-year agreement to lease a 30,000 square-foot parcel in Kakaako from Kamehameha Schools, where it will build and operate a pumping station and exchange facility for a seawater air conditioning cooling system that will serve downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

A series of meetings across Oahu are planned to provide the public with information about Honolulu's planned rail line. KITV4.

Residents will have a chance to find out more about Honolulu's planned rail line starting Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Archaeological excavations along the planned rail route in Kalihi, downtown and Kaakako will prompt lane closures and detours — and might last from six to 10 months. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Load Up on Taser Ammo, Pepper Spray, Bean Bags for APEC. Civil Beat.

Plan to rezone an area in Kapahulu creating concern. KHON2.

Hawaii

Cattle ranchers, horse breeders and even prospective first-time farmers came here Sunday afternoon to inspect Hawaii County jewels that have gone unpolished for 17 years. Tribune-Herald.

On a sunny day in the near-shore waters off of the North Kohala Coast in Kawaiahae on February 15 of this year, Brooke Landt was conducting a commercial dive when she noticed another diver harvesting aquarium fish species. Hawaii Independent.

Imagine walking in the footsteps of King Kamehameha I's most elite warriors along the Waikoloa Stream taking in some of old Hawaii whilst getting some good exercise in a relaxing Waimea setting. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The killing of a Santa Cruz, Calif., woman on Maui this month was the second domestic violence homicide in the state this year, with both involving tourists, domestic violence task force members say. Maui News.

While use is up by about 25 percent at Maui's only domestic violence shelter, the nonprofit agency running the shelter is struggling to maintain services with a nearly 41 percent cut in state funding. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council had to suspend its consideration of a request to spend $75,000 on outside legal counsel for its case against Michael Sheehan regarding alleged permit violations in the operation of his Hanalei boatyard. Garden Island.

Hawaii tourism takes a hit, zipline death could spur new laws, DOE mulls No Child Left Behind waiver, rodents take over Capitol, census shows pricey housing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Spam Jam (c) 2011 All Hawaii News

Hawaii's tourism industry has seen a pattern in recent months of lower visitor arrivals but higher spending by those who travel to the islands. Associated Press.

This year is still one of positive numbers for Hawaii's tourism industry, even though August's visitor totals fell short of those posted a year ago. Hawaii News Now.

Even though August visitor arrivals to Hawaii took their worst monthly drop in more than two years, the Hawaii Tourism Authority has set its sights on surpassing its peak arrivals and spending figures next year. Star-Advertiser.

Personal income in Hawaii grew by 0.9 percent in the second quarter from the first quarter, putting the state in the bottom 10 percent nationally, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported. Star-Advertiser.

Unemployment numbers for Hawaii are still below the national average but that’s no consolation for thousands of people across the islands searching for jobs right now. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii dwells near the bottom among the states when it comes to homeownership and renting, according to the 2010 American Community Survey. Star-Advertiser.

The death of a zip line construction worker Wednesday on the Big Island could lead to government oversight of the industry, which consists of at least nineteen operations on all of the main Hawaiian islands. KHON2.

The state Department of Education said it will do more research before deciding whether to seek a waiver to key provisions of the once-heralded No Child Left Behind law, which requires that schools meet rising annual proficiency goals or risk losing federal money. Star-Advertiser.

A local geologist is proposing a new way to warn people of the potential risks when enjoying Hawaii’s beautiful beaches, oceans and natural wonders. KITV4.

Sounds like the setup to a joke: Rodents have been discovered at the Hawaii state Capitol.Civil Beat.

Attorney General David Louie, Narcotics Enforcement Division Acting Administrator Derek Nakamura, and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special-Agent-in-Charge Robin Dinlocker encourage the community to bring in their expired or unused prescription medications at various collection points from September to October 2011. Hawaii Reporter.

Oahu

Aulani, a Disney resort and spa officially opened to guests August 29th, but that was nothing compared to the grand opening celebration Thursday night on the beach of Ko'Olina. KHON2.

State officials are having a cow over feral cattle that are tearing up vegetation in the Waianae Kai Forest Reserve on Oahu. Pacific Business News.

Some residents of Oahu will be represented in Congress and at Honolulu Hale, but not at the Hawaii Legislature. Civil Beat.

Coinciding with the arrival of a lifescale, bronze sculpture depicting a famous World War II kiss, the Battleship Missouri Memorial is inviting visiting couples to “plant one on” for an opportunity to win a return trip to the Hawaiian Islands. Hawaii Independent.

Hawaii

The state Department of Education has a message for the County of Hawaii -- you need to comply with our impact fee proposal. West Hawaii Today.

Ownership, maintenance and the ability to collect user fees on the nearly completed Hawaiian Ocean View Estates well facility will soon be decided. West Hawaii Today.

Police get kingpin's money. Tribune-Herald.

Even a trip to the nut farm couldn’t help Roseanne Barr’s attempt at reality TV: Lifetime has canceled Hamakua-based “Roseanne’s Nuts” after one season. Los Angeles Times.

Maui

The Hawaii Reapportionment Commission will likely face a legal challenge after it approved a redistricting plan that would prevent a state Senate seat from shifting from Oahu to the Big Island, commission member Tony Takitani of Wailuku said this week. Maui News.

Maui County Council members said this week they hoped to form an "investigative group" to study inequities in agricultural property tax assessments and to propose solutions. Maui News.

Rents for new tenants are lower at the state’s Honokowai Kauhale affordable housing project on Maui but they’re higher for longer-term occupants, the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp. said this afternoon. Hawaii Reporter.

Kauai

The County Council on Wednesday returned to its original home, the 98-year-old Historic County Building in the Lihu‘e Civic Center Historic District. Garden Island.

Waimea High has received a new sound system in the school’s Clem Gomes Gymnasium because of a generous donation from the Gift Committee of Waimea High School Class of 1962, according to a news release. Garden Island.

Hawaii has no worker safety regs for ziplines, Big Island fatality reveals, Ethics Commission clears lawmakers to accept APEC freebies, $29M park coming to Oahu's Sand Island, council kills impact fees again, ecotour operators feted, Kilauea on the move, more Hawaii news

courtesy USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory

Kilauea's eastern fault zone ruptured near Pu'u 'O'o for the third time this year, sending a flow of lava at least 11/2 miles to the east. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii State Ethics Commission agreed Wednesday that lawmakers could accept free tickets to some APEC-related events in November. Civil Beat.

Hawaii State Ethics Commission Executive Director Les Kondo says he doesn't get the "big brouhaha" over his position that members of legislative task forces are state employees — and subject to the Ethics Code. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers Investigate Prison Complaints. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers earlier this year declined to increase tax credits for television and film productions filming in the islands, but the proposal is still alive for the 2012 legislative session. Hawaii Reporter.

The Task Force on Public Charter School Governance approved a draft plan today that will be used as the basis to revamp the system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Fourteen Hawaii tourism companies have earned recognition as the state's first Certified Ecotour Operators through a standards program developed by the Hawaii Ecotourism Association to improve and protect the destination. Star-Advertiser.

A date has been set for the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to Japanese-American Veterans of World War II. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii Republican Party Chair John Carroll announced today that he will run for the U.S. Senate, for the seat to be vacated by Senator Daniel Akaka. Hawaii Independent.

Oahu

Canoe pavilions, a cafe, concession stands, restrooms, a marina and an ocean activity center are among the renovations the state is proposing in a $29 million master plan for Sand Island. Star-Advertiser.

A financially struggling slaughterhouse on Oahu, indebted to taxpayers, has been further imperiled after the two largest kama­aina supermarket chains decided to quit selling pork from hogs shipped live to Hawaii from the mainland. Star-Advertiser.

The leading opponents of Honolulu’s $5.3 billion elevated rail system are in need of some cash in their efforts to halt construction of the project. Pacific Business News.

West Oahu has waited 35 years for a new University of Hawaii campus, and soon that wait will be over. KHON2.

Hawaii

An impact fee would create too much impact for Hawaii County lawmakers to accept. Tribune-Herald.

Impact fees, which have been considered by the Hawaii County Council for decades, have been rejected again. West Hawaii Today.

One man was killed and a second was fighting for his life after a 30-foot zip line tower in Paukaa collapsed Wednesday. Tribune-Herald.

Zip line operations have no workplace safety regulations in Hawaii, unlike other amusement rides. KITV4.

Hawaii County police on Wednesday received $140,000 in forfeiture money for the department's work more than five years ago on a federal methamphetamine trafficking investigation. West Hawaii Today.

Alahou Clean and Sober Executive Director Sandra McCoy is facing charges of assaulting an officer, disorderly conduct and possessing a controlled substance stemming from a July altercation in Mississippi. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Although state housing official Karen Seddon promised two weeks ago to decrease rents at a troubled Maui housing project, her agency now has ordered rent increases. Hawaii Reporter.

A Maui businessman confirmed Tuesday that he is proposing to develop a bottled-water plant in rural Waihee, adding that the project is part of a larger plan to acquire 490 acres in the area and preserve most of it from residential development. Maui News.

Maui County is looking for a contractor to design and install a midsized, wind-powered turbine to generate as much as 100 kilowatts of power for a water-pumping station in Kaupakulua. Maui News.

Kauai
County officials are reminding the public that an increase in the state motor vehicle weight tax and registration fee was approved by the 2011 State Legislature. Garden Island.

Hawaii GOP in disarray, lawsuit protests Native Hawaiian tax exemptions, political firestorm over Senate districts, graduation requirements change, HNL airport woes, new helipad for Maui hospital, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

F-22 Raptor, military courtesy photo

The F-22 Raptors belonging to the Hawaii Air National Guard are scheduled to take flight Wednesday for the first time since the entire fleet was grounded back in May. Hawaii News Now.

Top Republicans in Hawaii are calling for the resignation of party chair Jonah Kaauwai.Civil Beat.

Saying the Hawaii Republican Party is broke heading into an election year, some state GOP leaders here are calling for the Republican State Chairman Jonah Kaauwai to be replaced. KITV4.

State legislative boundaries look increasingly likely to be decided by the Hawaii Supreme Court, two Big Island residents said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Monday's meeting of the Reapportionment Commission got a little strange. Two Big Island political rivals put on a bit of a show when one accused the other of trying to fix district boundaries to benefit himself. Civil Beat.

H. William Burgess, long known for his involvement in lawsuits challenging native Hawaiian entitlements, is now involved in a lawsuit challenging property tax exemptions for native Hawaiians. The lawsuit was filed on September 15. Hawaii Independent.

Republican John Carroll is expected to make an announcement regarding his possible candidacy for U.S. Senate. on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

A growing number of workers who took jobs during the economic slowdown to ensure they had a paycheck are now looking to trade up for better positions as employers increase hiring, organizers of the state's largest job fair said. Star-Advertiser.

Starting with next year's freshmen, high school students will have to meet tougher graduation requirements aimed at better preparing them for college or careers, under changes unanimously approved Tuesday by the Board of Education. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii public school students will graduate better prepared for college and the world beyond -- at least that's the goal behind new diploma requirements approved Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Board Unfazed by Ed Department's Reversal on Grad Requirements. Civil Beat.

Two children died while in Hawaii's foster care system in 2006, and another in 2008, but the grandparents of a 9-month-old Hauula boy who died last month under unexplained circumstances after he was taken by state officials say Hawaii's fatality statistics are too high. Star-Advertiser.

CONGRESS.ORG: How Hawaii's Elected Officials Voted - September 19, 2011. Hawaii Reporter.

The 8th International Women’s Leadership Conference was conducted with a sold-out audience in attendance today in Waikiki. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

A free weekly newspaper in Honolulu nearly shut down last month. Thanks to some of its loyal readers, the Honolulu Weekly is still on news stands. KITV4.

Three Hawaiian Airlines flights were delayed Tuesday, and federal security workers had to rely on dogs and other methods to screen checked baggage after a Transportation Security Administration X-ray machine broke down — the fourth such device to malfunction in that section of the airport. Star-Advertiser.

The union that represented most of the Honolulu Airport baggage screeners disciplined for improper screening said it plans to appeal almost all the cases. Star-Advertiser.

Foodland Super Market Ltd. and Times Supermarkets have agreed to stop purchasing pork products from pigs that are transported live to Hawaii for slaughter. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Despite police concerns, a bill allowing them to impound vehicles driven by intoxicated, unlicensed or fraudulent drivers was advanced out of a County Council committee Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Stretching the dollar as far as possible should be at the forefront of the state Judiciary's mind when it selects a site next year for the long-promised Kona Judiciary Complex, a state official said Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

Laupahoehoe High and Elementary will once again face the possibility of closure if efforts by community members to block its conversion to a charter school are successful, a Department of Education official said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Three unexploded ordnance have been discovered in the Hapuna Beach area since a cleanup began two weeks ago. KHON2.

Maui

Maui Memorial Medical Center's long-awaited $3 million helipad will be blessed Thursday, followed by a helicopter trial run next week. Maui News.

With separate interview rooms designed for children and teenagers and a lounge where families can wait, the Maui County prosecutor's office is offering crime victims a "friendly atmosphere" to meet with deputy prosecutors in its new Victim Witness Services office. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank is in danger of losing nearly a third of the food it distributes to local agencies that feed the hungry. Garden Island.

The development of a county Human Resources Department seems like a hot potato everyone wants to eat but no one wants to hold. Garden Island.