Hawaii can regulate beach weddings; Native Hawaiian tax breaks, incarceration at issue; big bucks budgets pass Honolulu, Maui councils; Hawaii council challenges aerial hunting, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii can regulate weddings on public beaches without violating people’s right to marry, a federal appeals court ruled Wednesday. Associated Press.

The state of Hawaii has the right to require a permit for commercial weddings on the state’s beaches, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Hawaii's right to regulate commercial weddings on public beaches. KITV4.

News agencies are reporting that the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals yesterday upheld the State of Hawaii’s right to regulate commercial weddings on public beaches. Maui Now.

The Native Hawaiian Justice Task Force is gathering information on why Native Hawaiians are disproportionately represented among the state’s prison population. Associated Press.

In direct response to concerns about the disproportionate number of Native Hawaiians who are in prison in Hawai’i and the U.S. mainland, members of a newly-created task force are using their collective reach and access to engage policymakers in the issue, build public awareness and identify and support comprehensive solutions. Garden Island.

Final Brief In Case Challenging Hawaiian Homes Property Tax Exemption As Racial Discrimination: SG's Assertion That HAWSCT Decision Was One Of State Law "Dead Wrong." Hawaii Reporter.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle, candidate for U.S. Senate is about to get her own cable television channel. KHON2.

The Democratic Party of Hawaii appears poised to take legal action as early as this week to stop Laura Thielen from running for the state Senate. Civil Beat.

Centuries ago Hawaiians used knowledge of the stars and planets to guide their daily lives. King Kala--kaua’s Interest in astronomy helped scientists around the world measure our solar system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu resident Jim Nabors, best known for his 1960s television role as Gomer Pyle, was among the first patients in Hawaii to get a heart valve replacement using a new procedure that avoids the stress of open-heart surgery. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for June 7. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council voted 8-1 on Wednesday to approve a $1.96 billion operating budget and $588.7 million capital improvements budget for the new fiscal year that begins July 1. Star-Advertiser.

The message from Wednesday's marathon Honolulu City Council hearing was clear: this nine-member body is decidedly pro-rail. KITV4

The Honolulu City Council wasted little time passing the $620-million Capital Budget bill Wednesday. The biggest dollar signs went toward improving Honolulu roadways.KHON2.

Honolulu City Council member Romy Cachola is questioning whether a public relations consultant hired by a city contractor to promote Honolulu rail inappropriately used public money to lobby him to support the controversial $5.2 billion project. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Council Chair Accuses Mayor of 'Quid Pro Quo' Politics on Sewage Project. Civil Beat.

A state agency is moving closer to privatizing a $22 million renovation and expansion of Kewalo Basin to better serve commercial and recreational boaters. Civil Beat.

The general manager of Turtle Bay Resort has been appointed to the Oahu Burial Council, making it possible for the committee to meet for the first time after a five-month hiatus. Civil Beat.

About 150 opponents of a plan to expand Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu's North Shore demonstrated at Honolulu Hale Wednesday in an effort to raise public awareness and urge the City Council to reconsider decades-old approvals for the estimated $1.2 billion project. Star-Advertiser.

The man challenging Honolulu City Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro in November's election said there's been a "mass exodus" of lawyers from the office since Kaneshiro took over about 18 months ago. Hawaii News Now.

The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit will have the ability to tap up to $450 million via low-interest city loans under a bill passed by the City Council today. Star-Advertiser.

Incoming University of Hawaii Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple, who's already being paid more than the UH president, will also receive car and relocation allowances, according to Apple's employment agreement. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Council Chairman Dominic Yagong found plenty of support Wednesday for two bills challenging the state Department of Land and Natural Resources by taking up the cause of island hunters. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council moved one step closer toward asking voters whether they support the creation of a Game Management Advisory Commission. They also approved a bill to ban the practice of eradication by aerial shooting in the county. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council passed two geothermal bills through their first reading Wednesday evening, clearing the way for final approval at a later meeting. Tribune-Herald.

Kahili ginger, a beautiful and fragrant, but prolific ornamental species, has taken root atop Kohala Mountain, slowly destroying the area’s native Hawaiian forest that many rare flora and fauna not only call home, but also require for survival. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

The Maui County Council this morning unanimously passed on second and final reading a $549.9 million spending plan for fiscal 2013, which includes property tax hikes and water rate and bus fare increases. Maui News.

Longtime County Council Member Joe Pontanilla will challenge attorney and incumbent Gil Keith-Agaran for the Central Maui state House seat in the Primary Election. Maui News.

A Maui County Council committee Tuesday reversed itself and decided to add 390 acres near the Makena Resort's golf course to future growth boundaries for South Maui. Maui News.

The Maui County Department of Environmental Management will begin work on a second sewer line replacement project in West Maui this month. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai County Council members have been pressing the administration for years to step up recycling efforts on the island as the Kekaha Landfill nears capacity. Garden Island

Molokai

Molokai’s ocean resources are fragile, and many say they’re rapidly disappearing. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii filing deadline reveals instant winners, paired incumbents; Supreme Court justice named; school bus plan stalls; Kaiser Permanente named safest hospital; all out for transit of Venus; more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Former state Sen. Lorraine Inouye checks election maps (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Democratic candidates for the Hawaii Legislature are fielding more than double the number of Republican candidates in the 2012 elections — 121 to 56. Civil Beat.

Incumbents are facing off in redrawn districts. Several Democratic leaders are competing against either each other or former lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Statewide candidate filing report from the Office of Elections.

Citing his reputation as a "judge's judge," Gov. Neil Abercrombie appointed Circuit Judge Richard Pollack on Tuesday to a 10-year term on the Hawaii Supreme Court. Star-Advertiser.

Circuit Judge Richard Pollack has been appointed to the Hawaii Supreme Court by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Hawaii Reporter.

Judge Richard W. Pollack has been nominated to the Hawaii Supreme Court by Gov. Neil Abercrombie. Pacific Business News.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie wants to change the state law that requires Hawaii judges and justices to retire at age 70. Civil Beat.

More than half of Hawaii hospitals were rated average or worse in a new patient-safety survey that already is under attack by the industry. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii school board members on Tuesday rejected the Department of Education's plan to plug a $17 million shortfall for student transportation services that includes eliminating 190 buses. Civil Beat.

The Board of Education is asking schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi to dig deeper to cover a shortfall for student transportation and wants service cuts to affect no more than 4,300 student riders. Star-Advertiser.

A proposal from the state Department of Education for the state Board of Education to discontinue certain school bus routes hit a wall Tuesday, and will now be revisited in an upcoming board meeting. Garden Island.

Yesterday the Islands provided one of the best places to view the rare Transit of Venus. Hawaii Public Radio.

The daylit side of the world paused Tuesday to mark the transit of Venus across the sun, an event that won’t be seen again for 105 years. Tribune-Herald.

Hundreds of people seized their last chance in a lifetime to watch Earth’s sister planet do its slow march across the sun Tuesday in Waimea. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council plans to hammer out operating and capital improvement spending plans Wednesday, and there are several items that could stir debate. Civil Beat.

The city's "white bin" program, which allows schools and clubs to earn money for programs by inviting neighbors to dump their recyclables at specially marked containers, will continue under the City Council's $1.95 billion operating budget up for a final vote today. Star-Advertiser.

For the second straight budget, a sewage treatment project is a major source of friction between Mayor Peter Carlisle and the Honolulu City Council. Civil Beat.

Officials said Tuesday that federal firefighters acted quickly Monday to contain a small brush fire at Naval Magazine Lua­lua­lei that got away from firefighters and grew to a 1,200-acre brush fire that likely affected endangered plants, possibly damaged structures and forced Wai­anae Valley residents to evacuate two days in a row. Star-Advertiser.

Former award-winning journalist Gregg Takayama today filed as a Democratic candidate for the State House representing Pearl City’s new 34th District (Momilani-Pacific Palisades). Hawaii Reporter.

Experts predict fewer storms than usual in the Central Pacific during this year's hurricane season. That is good news for Hawaii, but emergency response teams are still preparing for a potential disaster. Hawaii News Now.

Kahala residents say they've been noticing more homeless people living on the beach and squatters taking over vacant mansions. KHON2.

Hawaii
The election is over before it even began for two Big Island state representatives and two County Council members who won their respective races as of the 4:30 p.m. Tuesday filing deadline. West Hawaii Today.

Seven East Hawaii school bus routes affecting a total of 158 students are likely to be discontinued this academic year. Tribune-Herald.

The U.S. Commerce Department is awarding a $3 million grant to the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority to support the development of alternative energy sources and biotechnology. Associated Press.

Family members cried as a federal judge told Cannibus Minister Roger Christie that he'd have to remain behind bars. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island single-family home and condominium sales were down slightly in May, but median sale prices for both rose when compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service. Pacific Business News.

Maui

A County Council committee Monday approved removing eight sites in Makena from protected area designation, after the Planning Department cited the potential for legal issues and county reimbursements for the impediments to development with the designation. Maui News.

More than a handful of residents and property owners of Anuhea Place near the Kulamalu Town Center in Pukalani asked County Council committee members Monday to place their land in a rural growth boundary so that they could freely put up homes for themselves and their children. Maui News.

A remake of the 1980 movie classic, “The Blue Lagoon,” which was filmed partially on Maui, is scheduled to air on June 16th on the Lifetime Network. Maui Now.

Kauai

Single-family home sale prices dropped 19 percent on Kauai in May, to a median price of $483,750. But condominium prices were up 22 percent to $264,500 last month when compared to the same period last year, according to statistics from Hawaii Information Service Inc. Pacific Business News.

The Hawai‘i National Guard and a unit from Nevada are on Kaua‘i this week for the Makani Pahili 2012 disaster communications exercise in support of the County of Kaua‘i and County Civil Defense. Garden Island.

Akaka most erudite, youth smoking down, vets commemorate Midway, Hawaii candidate filing deadline today, Harry Kim running for Big Island mayor again, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Sens. Inouye, left, and Akaka. (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

The Sunlight Foundation, a Washington group that pushes for government transparency, ranks U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-Hawaii, in the top five among members of Congress for his use of longer sentences and more complex words. Associated Press.

As Hawaii’s state legislative election filling deadline looms on June 5th, election experts are hoping for a more competitive race than in previous years. Ballotpedia.

It's official! There are a lot of eager politicians already lined up for the 2012 election -- even before the official filing deadline. KITV4.

Hawaii has long been known as a Democratic party state but the Hawaii Republicans are trying to change that. KHON2.

Advocates for youth and health officials are celebrating new survey results that show a dramatic decline over the last decade in the number of Hawaii middle and high school students who are active smokers. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii State Department of Health and the Department of Education released new survey findings showing great improvements in reducing tobacco use among Hawaii's youth. Hawaii News Now.

State health officials are setting new rules for the regulation of pesticides after a federal court ruled that the chemicals fall under the Clean Water Act when they enter waterways. Civil Beat.

Two retired Marines — both of them 90 years old — made the long trip to this isolated spit of coral and sand for the first time in 70 years to commemorate the Battle of Midway, while the head of the Pacific Fleet vowed that America will continue to commemorate the battle "as long as we have a United States Navy." Star-Advertiser.

Six months after the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, Japan sent four aircraft carriers to the tiny Pacific atoll of Midway to draw out and destroy what remained of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. Associated Press.

With a large banner proclaiming "Aloha, New York," Hawaiian Airlines and 173 passengers aboard a new Airbus A330-200 flew off Monday on the inaugural nonstop flight to John F. Kennedy International Airport to mark a new chapter in the carrier's 82-year history. Star-Advertiser.

Families of two Hawai‘i residents who were killed while serving time at a private prison in Arizona have filed lawsuits against the state of Hawai‘i and Corrections Corporation of America. Garden Island.

Hawai`i played a significant role in calculating the exact size of our solar system through observing a planetary phenomenon called the Transit of Venus. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for June 5. Associated Press.

Oahu

It's been a record-setting five months since the Oahu Burial Council last met, potentially delaying projects such as resorts and infrastructure plans that need approvals from the committee to move forward. Civil Beat.

Several unions have placed their support behind Mayor Peter Carlisle in his bid for re-election. Star-Advertiser.

Vandals used permanent markers to deface dozens of color photos on political signs in Kailua and Keolu over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

In spite of losing to Democrat Sharon Har two years ago, GOP state House candidate Marissa Capelouto, 50, says she's eager for another try because taxes and regulations are killing businesses. Civil Beat.

Former iPad developer opens Hawaii Apps in downtown Honolulu. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Wearing his trademark blue jeans and plaid shirt, former Hawaii County Mayor “just call me Harry” Kim strode into the Office of Elections on Monday and dramatically changed what some had thought would be a two-way battle for the county’s top elected office. West Hawaii Today.

Former Mayor Harry Kim wants his old job back. Tribune-Herald.

Former two-term mayor Harry Kim today took out nomination papers to run for the chief executive position on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Former Big Island Mayor Harry Kim today shook up the 2012 campaign by announcing that he’ll try to win back his former job this fall. KPUA.

U.S. Senate candidate Ed Case just wrapped up a two-day campaign swing through West Hawai`i, where he told voters that the upcoming election is important to the future of our state and country. KPUA.

Longtime East Hawai`i lawmaker Jerry Chang has announced he won't be seeking re-election and will step down when his current term ends in January. KPUA.

It was a heated public meeting in Naalehu on Saturday, as hunters from across the island converged on a meeting at the community center about a plan to manage the 61,641-acre Ka‘ū Forest Reserve. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Funds for improvements to a softball field at Molokai High School and the construction of two portables at Lahaina Intermediate School are part of $26.8 million released by the governor for capital improvement projects at school facilities statewide. Maui News.

A long-time Maui police officer was indicted today on four counts of sexual assault in the third degree following allegations of sexual misconduct by a 15-year-old juvenile female. Maui Now.

Kauai

Gary Hooser may be coming home. He filed Monday to run for Kauai County Council, nearly one decade after leaving his seat at the seven-member table to run for state Senate. Civil Beat.

Former state Sen. Gary Hooser, director of the state Office of Environmental Quality Control, filed Monday to run for a Kaua‘i County Council seat. Garden Island.

A report recently released by the county Office of Economic Development prompted county officials to say Monday that Kaua‘i is “finally seeing job growth in its long economic recovery.” Garden Island.

Ed vs. Mazie battle intensifies, Hawaiian Airlines starts nonstop flight to NYC, 5-year-olds to evaluate their teachers, Hanalei farmers market closes, 400lbs kalua pork recalled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands for smartphone and web

Democratic Senate candidates Ed Case and Mazie Hirono

U.S. Senate Democratic candidates Mazie Hirono and Ed Case have a lot in common. But Case and Hirono are two very different people with different backgrounds, personal and professional, and starkly different personalities. Civil Beat.

Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate, Ed Case and Mazie K. Hirono, will participate in an hourlong debate, sponsored by AARP Hawaii, on June 12 in the Maui Beach Hotel Elleair Room. Maui News.

Hawaii is being billed as one of the best vantage points in the world for viewing the transit of Venus tomorrow because the entire transit will occur before the sun sets. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii will be one of the best spots to see the transit of Venus this Tuesday. KITV4.

Hawaiian Airlines is about to be the only carrier offering year-round flights between Honolulu and New York City. Associated Press.

According to Hawai`i’s constitution protecting and preserving Hawai`i’s best farmland is the duty of state leaders. Decades after rules were written, what makes up the state’s top farmland remains ambiguous. Hawaii Public Radio.

Public school students as young as 5 are being asked to consider their classroom experiences in surveys that will soon become one of the high-stakes measures used to evaluate teachers.Star-Advertiser.

Just over half of Hawaii’s public school teachers cast ballots in the re-vote last month on the tentative January contract agreement with the state, according to the results certified late Saturday. Civil Beat.

The chancellor of Kapiolani Community College says he is committed to ensuring instructors in its noncredit program are paid on time and has asked anyone who is overdue paychecks to call the administration. Star-Advertiser.

The state's highest court took the extraordinary step last month of abandoning its earlier stance on eyewitness identification. Misidentification, the court said May 17, is "one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions." Star-Advertiser.

The Rising East: Pacific Command Theme Might Be 'On the Road Again' Civil Beat.

The University of Hawaii’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources will receive a $6 million federal grant to continue its work to convert grass and other biomass into biofuel. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

If elected, Cayetano has plan for killing rail. Pacific Business News.

Several bus routes on Oahu were changed or eliminated Sunday as the city tries to meet increased fuel costs without raising fares. Hawaii News Now.

Part of the Pagoda Hotel in Pawaa could become a residential condominium under a plan by Kamehameha Schools and developer Peter Savio to satisfy an affordable-housing requirement tied to building new condo towers in nearby Kakaako. Star-Advertiser.

Wahiawa is known as the Gateway to the famous North Shore but the town's reputation has been an infamous one. KHON2.

About 400 pounds of Keoki's Lau Lau 12 and 48 ounce tubs of kalua brand pork are being recalled due to possible listeria contamination.  Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

On the heels of an intense state Elections Commission inquiry into the readiness of the Hawaii County Elections Office, Hilo Councilman Dennis Onishi is now seeking to have the county clerk and elections administrator update the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Former Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim is poised to make this year’s mayoral race a lot more interesting. West Hawaii Today.

The governing board of a Mauna Kea telescope says it is “very disappointed” with the decision of the United Kingdom to cease funding after September 2013. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light Co. have launched an upgraded computer system to maintain customer records and manage billing. Tribune-Herald.

Just outside Kailua-Kona there’s a place where a short walk can take you back to Hawaii old. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A federal scientist said Maui residents shouldn't be too concerned about the risk of earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, and officials are looking to expand the network of monitoring stations on the island in the next few years. Maui News.

More than likely, there will be no body parts or radioactive materials among the Japan tsunami debris that may begin washing up along the main Hawaiian Islands this year, federal officials said last week. Maui News.

Kauai

Vendors at the Hanalei Farmers Market got a shock Saturday when the board of Hale Halawai ‘Ohana O Hanalei, which operates the market, announced the market would close immediately until permitting issues could be resolved. Garden Island.

A new generation is taking control of Kauai's struggling Maka­weli Poi Mill with the dream of inspiring young taro farmers to continue producing a brand of poi they consider more appealing to traditional Hawaiian tastes throughout the islands. Star-Advertiser.

The LEED green building certification program, a nationally accepted benchmark for design, construction and operation of green buildings held its first Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design training workshop on Kaua‘i in April with another planned for June. Garden Island.

Molokai

Residents participate in Historic Preservation Plan update. Molokai Dispatch.

Gay military color guard to lead Honolulu Pride Parade, April sets tourism record, state reverses Medicaid cuts, Lingle's record on Hawaiian home lots scrutinized, Hawaii council passes $365.1M budget, Maui tutu blames state for child's death, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu Pride Parade, courtesy photo

For the first time in the history of the Honolulu Pride Parade, a gay military color guard will lead the procession through the streets of Waikiki now that the "don't ask, don't tell" policy has been repealed. Star-Advertiser.

Skygazers who want the full transit of Venus experience are flocking to Hawaii, considered one of the prime viewing spots since the whole transit will be visible. Associated Press.

Hawaii set an April record for visitor arrivals and spending, pumping $1.17 billion into the state's economy last month, according to statistics released Thursday by the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Star-Advertiser.

Visitor spending is on the rise, according to Hawaii Tourism Authority, and reaching record levels. Pacific Business News.

The months of April and May are typically slower periods for tourism in the islands.  Not this year.  According to the Hawai’i Tourism Authority … the industry is experiencing phenomenal growth. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. unemployment rate rose one tenth in May to 8.2 percent, but the newest Hawaii weekly jobless claims report shows a decline in total filings to the lowest level in years. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly half of Native Hawaiians awarded homestead lots under former Gov. Linda Lingle still haven't gotten their homes. Civil Beat.

The Abercrombie administration announced Thursday that the state will not go through with benefit reductions for adults in QUEST, the state's health plan for the poor, choosing to preserve patient access to a full range of medical services, including unlimited hospital stays. Star-Advertiser.

Military operations in Hawaii will play a critical role in developing new technologies, more agile forces and partnerships throughout the Asia-Pacific region for a downsizing U.S. military, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said Thursday at U.S. Pacific Command at Camp H.M. Smith in Halawa Heights. Star-Advertiser.

The Gas Co. is moving ahead with plans to bring U.S.-produced natural gas to Hawaii, announcing Thursday it has chosen an engineering firm to help with the proj­ect, which would give local residents and businesses access to a new and potentially cheaper energy alternative. Star-Advertiser.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency proposed a Regional Haze Federal Implementation Plan for Hawaii that could force certain oil refineries to burn cleaner fuel with the aim of improving visibility at nearby national parks. Civil Beat.

State roundup for June 1. Associated Press.

Oahu

A project to widen an eroding section of world-famous Waikiki beach has been completed. Associated Press.

It's a Hawaii icon the state describes as a $200 million-a-year asset. KHON2.

Honolulu city officials are looking at making some safety improvements at the Koko Head rifle range after claims that bullets have been found in neighborhoods in the area. Hawaii News Now.

Currently, the Honolulu City Council's operating budget calls for $1.96 billion in new spending. That's only $5 million more than what the mayor had hoped for. KITV4.

On Thursday, Circuit Court Judge Karen Ahn sealed court records that were submitted by the attorney for a federal agent who shot and killed 23-year-old Kailua resident Kollin Elderts at a McDonald’s in Waikiki last November that included a surveillance video from the restaurant and cell phone video captured by a bystander after the shooting. Civil Beat.

Honolulu mayoral candidate Kirk Caldwell made it official this afternoon, filing his campaign paperwork with the City Clerk's office. Hawaii Reporter.

A pro-rail union group has stepped up its attack against mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano, buying thousands of dollars worth of ads on local stations this week. Civil Beat.

Hawaii

The Hawaii County Council approved Mayor Billy Kenoi’s’s $365.1 million operating budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal year, making minimal changes and no cuts. Tribune-Herald.

Anticipating a veto from Mayor Billy Kenoi and not enough votes to override it, Council Chairman Dominic Yagong on Thursday backed off his plan to amend the annual budget to put payments into the county’s retiree benefits account. West Hawaii Today.

Chelsea Yagong, who turns 26 on Saturday, has filed for the Hawaii County Council seat being vacated by her father, who is running for mayor. Tribune-Herald.

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority is on the hot seat following an auditor’s report released Wednesday that outlined years of poor management and lack of transparency. West Hawaii Today.

Waiakea Village, the struggling commercial property fronting Waiakea Pond in Hilo that once was a Sheraton resort, will return to the ownership of the bank following a foreclosure auction that was held Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

The grandmother of a 4-year-old Maui boy who died Wednesday of apparent abuse injuries said the state failed to protect her grandson by giving him back to an allegedly abusive parent after it had taken custody of the boy when he was severely injured at 6 months old. Star-Advertiser.

A Wailuku man and his live-in girlfriend were charged Thursday with second-degree murder for the death of the man's 4-year-old son, who was taken to the hospital emergency room Tuesday night, police said. Maui News.

Concerns about possible development being too close to Mokulele Highway and a lack of information regarding two state agencies' plans for its land in the Puunene area led a Maui County Council committee on Wednesday to deny their requests for new urban growth boundary areas for several hundred acres of land. Maui News.

Maui County Council Member Mike Victorino and state Sen. Roz Baker filed nomination papers Wednesday for re-election to their seats. Maui News.

Kauai

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday sent its official message for the Fiscal Year 2013 budget, highlighting the process to reach an operational budget of $166 million and $64 million in capital improvement projects. Garden Island.

A blessing was held last week to mark the start of the Koke‘e Road enhancement project. Garden Island.

Hawaii could ban Kona spearfishing, boaters fight licenses, Democrats sue to keep Thielen off the ballot, Pro Bowl returns, Honolulu firefighters fight over mayoral endorsement, bed and breakfasts to be limited on Molokai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Ornate butterflyfish (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

West Hawaii’s shores could soon be the first in the state to become off limits to scuba spearfishing. Tribune-Herald.

50 Oahu boaters gathered in Aiea for the first of five public hearings on whether boaters should have a safety certificate or license. But the idea didn't go over well. KHON2.

A proposed rule requiring power boat operators to complete a boating safety course faced fierce opposition Wednesday at a packed meeting at the Hawaii Big Game Fishing Club at Honokohau Harbor. West Hawaii Today.

Laura Thielen

State Democrats have authorized the party to file a legal challenge to prevent Laura Thielen, a director of the state Department of Land and Natural Resources under former Gov. Linda Lingle, from running for the state Senate as a Democrat. Star-Advertiser.

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, filed her nomination papers today for the U.S. Senate race. She's taking on former Congressman Ed Case in the primary, and if successful, will be pitted against former Gov. Linda Lingle or former State Senator John Carroll. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii needs to move away from identity politics, says a former Congressman now vying for the Democratic Party’s U.S. Senate nomination. West Hawaii Today.

The National Football League has given its embattled Pro Bowl a one-year reprieve for 2013, challenging its players and Hawaii to demonstrate how the 73-year-old all-star game can be made viable for the future. Star-Advertiser.

The National Football League said Wednesday that the 2013 Pro Bowl will be played at Aloha Stadium in Honolulu, and league officials said they were working with the players to make the game more competitive. Pacific Business News.

Nearly a year after Gov. Neil Abercrombie equated a $4 million fee to keep the NFL Pro Bowl in Hawaii to a "bribe," the governor has changed his tune. KITV4.

In 2011, 26 Hawaii non-profits received needed dollars and cents from the NFL Charities Pro Bowl Grant Program. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Honolulu officials abandoned a bus rapid transit system nearly a decade ago after public support waned and a new mayor took office. Civil Beat.

Honolulu's job market is improving, but at a slower pace than in the best-performing mainland cities, according to a report released Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

A rift between organizations representing firefighters and former firefighters widened Wednesday with Honolulu Fire Chief Kenneth Silva joining the finger-pointing. Star-Advertiser.

Firefighter retirees and union membership are at odds over endorsement of Ben Cayetano in Honolulu mayoral race. Civil Beat.

Retired Fire Chief Says Since Political Endorsement of Cayetano for Mayor, He's Received Threats, Retaliation; Current Chief Denies Tie. Hawaii Reporter.

Former teamsters leader Mel Kahele filed papers to run for the Honolulu City Council spot currently held by Tom Berg. KHON2.

The Honolulu Museum of Art received a 346-thousand dollar check from the State today for investing in an energy efficient cooling and ventilation system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii is under fire from the state auditor's office for poor management and lack of transparency. Civil Beat.

Administrators restricted access to Kona Community Hospital Wednesday morning after receiving a threat. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Regional Haze Implementation plan for Hawaii will be the focus of discussion during a public hearing on Maui tomorrow (Thursday, May 31, 2012) hosted by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Maui Now.

South Maui residents worried about extra traffic and potential development blurring the boundary between Kihei and Kahului urged Maui County Council members Monday to resist the inclusion of several hundred acres of land in Puunene in the urban growth boundaries of the draft Maui Island Plan. Maui News.

A meeting tonight in Lahaina called by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will help shape the restoration of Moku'ula, a political and spiritual center of Hawaii and home of ancient chiefs. Maui News.

Governor Neil Abercrombie announced the release of $250,000 for the planning and design of a community center on two acres of land in Nahiku on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

The Hanalei Watershed Hui is inviting the public to a  June 6 meeting to address what is going on with Hanalei Bay Watershed. In addition, the hui is reminding the public the Hanalei Watershed Management Plan is ready for review and comment. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i beekeepers could sleep in peace, knowing the Garden Isle is the only major Hawaiian island free of the small hive beetle, a serious pest to honeybees. Until last week. Garden Island.

Molokai

A bill was signed into law last week that establishes new regulations for short-term rentals, also known as transient vacation rentals, in Maui County. Molokai Dispatch.

U.S. Senate candidates face off in Honolulu, campaign in Hilo, mixed economic forecast, Big Island zipline maker at fault, Japan won't dump radioactive waste in Northern Marianna Islands, more Hawaii news for smartphone and web

Ed Case, Mazie Hirono

U.S. Senate candidates squared off today in the first of only five debates between the Democrats. Hawaii News Now.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono on Tuesday said easing visa restrictions for Chinese visitors could fuel tourism in Hawaii, but former U.S. Rep. Ed Case, who also favors the legislation, said the bill's lack of prog­ress in Congress suggests Hirono is not effective. Star-Advertiser.

Ed Case did not wait terribly long to try and score debating points against Mazie Hirono at a candidate forum Tuesday on tourism. Civil Beat.

It was a first for the candidates vying for U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka's seat. Tuesday, they participated in a forum together at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. KHON2.

Linda Lingle

There aren’t many Republicans in the Democratic stronghold known as Hilo, but almost 200 came out Tuesday for the headquarters grand opening and birthday bash for former Gov. Linda Lingle, the GOP candidate for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Democratic Sen. Daniel Akaka. West Hawaii Today.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle mingled among her East Hawaii supporters at the opening of her Hilo headquarters. Tribune-Herald.


The state Council on Revenues on Tuesday kept a 12 percent growth forecast for the fiscal year that ends June 30, but lowered the revenue projection for next fiscal year, which will prompt the Abercrombie administration to scale back state spending. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Council on Revenues on Tuesday kept its revenue growth projection for the current fiscal year, which ends June 30, at 12 percent. Pacific Business News.

The Council on Revenues revised its State General Fund revenue forecast today…with mixed reviews on what to expect in the months and years ahead. Hawaii Public Radio.

A 2011 state law meant to generate as much as $220 million in new tax revenues has fallen far short of target, causing the state Council on Revenues today to forecast a 2.2% drop in next year’s total tax take. Hawaii Reporter.

The Council on Revenues forecasts the state has about $100 million less to work with next year. KHON2.

Japanese investors appear to have abandoned plans to dump millions of tons of debris from last year's tsunami disaster on a pristine island in the Northern Mariana Islands. Civil Beat.

State roundup for May 30. Associated Press.

Oahu

A federal review completed last month found Honolulu has improved its city bus and Handi-Van services since their last federal evaluation three years ago, but there's still work to be done. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Peter Carlisle said Tuesday that his support for the city's rail proj­ect is "unequivocal," drawing a brighter line than former managing director Kirk Caldwell, who has called for a review of the proj­ect's station locations, architecture and visual impact. Star-Advertiser.

Anthony Guerrero Jr., a retired vice chairman of First Hawaiian Bank   and chairman of the board of Oahu Transit Services, has joined the board of Move Oahu Forward, a group of Honolulu business leaders who support the city’s rail transit project. Pacific Business News.

Officials have set their sights on Hawaii's military housing for a new program they hope will cut energy waste and save the government nearly a half-million dollars a year in electricity costs. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

Seven candidates for Hawaii County Council on the Big Island are taking advantage of public financing through a three-election-year pilot program in its second year. Civil Beat.

South Kona Councilwoman Brenda Ford has big plans for the site of a new community college at Palamanui. West Hawaii Today.

Tradewinds Forest Products LLC recently started harvesting eucalyptus trees planted in Hamakua in the late-1990s to send to Asia. West Hawaii Today.

The builder of a zip line course in Paukaa near Hilo, where one worker was killed and a co-worker critically injured when a tower collapsed Sept. 21, failed to ensure ground anchors and a guy cable system could support the weight of a tower, zip lines and human riders, the state said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

The state has accused the builder of an East Hawaii zip line platform that collapsed last year, killing a construction worker, of serious violations of workplace safety laws.Tribune-Herald.

Richard Crowe, co-founder of the University of Hawaii at Hilo’s astronomy program and astronomer-in-residence at ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii, was killed Sunday in a bizarre Jeep accident near Chinle, Ariz. He was 60. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Gov. Neil Abercrombie released $250,000 for the Nahiku Community Center. Maui News.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye said "the true test of our patriotism" is taking care of our soldiers in battle and at home. Maui News.

Kauai

The Hanalei Watershed Hui is inviting the public to a  June 6 meeting to address what is going on with Hanalei Bay Watershed. Garden Island.

It couldn’t have started in a worse place, said a volunteer who helped fight a brush fire in a remote area in the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve Monday. Garden Island.

Hawaii Supreme Court to get new justice, Democratic Party convention raises neutrality issues, taser suits denied, Oahu wind energy construction begins, meetings to address Kauai forest reserves, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Supreme Court (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Sometime in the next few weeks, Gov. Neil Abercrombie is expected to name a second associate justice, this one to replace James Duffy Jr., who retires Thursday. Civil Beat.

The executive board of the teachers union will meet this weekend to determine its next steps after teachers approved a contract proposal that they previously rejected and which the state says is no longer valid. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii professional employer organizations plan to carry their fight against a recently-passed bill that would impose tighter restrictions and higher fees on their industry to the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations next week. Pacific Business News.

The Abercrombie administration, in a major policy shift, will award most of the $10 million in federal money the state receives this year to help cover medical costs for the poor at the state's public hospitals. Star-Advertiser.

Daniel Akaka

Delegates to Hawaii Democrats’ state convention Sunday (May 27) gave multiple ovations to U.S. Sen. Dan Akaka, 87, who retires in early 2013 after 36 years in the U.S. Congress. Civil Beat.

A cheerful and gentlemanly U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, D-HI, gave a classy farewell speech on Sunday as he addressed more than 600 Democrats at their convention for one final time before leaving the U.S. Senate. Hawaii Reporter.

Resolution Asks Top Democrats to Remain Neutral, But U.S. Sen. Inouye Promotes Two Congressional Candidates at Convention. Hawaii Reporter.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye has transferred more than $875,000 since January 2011 to help keep the U.S. Senate under Democratic control. Star-Advertiser.

The theme for the Democratic Party of Hawaii's state convention this year, which concluded Sunday after three days at the Sheraton Waikiki, was "I am a Democrat because ..." Civil Beat.

As U.S. Senate Election Nears, Inouye Mocks Lingle’s 'Bipartisan' Claims. Hawaii Reporter.

Following the many jibes made at their party and candidates during Hawaii Democrats’ convention over the weekend, the Hawaii GOP has issued more press release responses. Civil Beat.

Rising wages may finally become part of Hawai`i’s gradually improving economy. The latest forecast shows increasing incomes for the next two-years. Hawaii Public Radio.

The U.S. Supreme Court has decided that it will not review the appropriateness of stun guns used by police on suspects in cases involving a Maui woman an a woman from Washington state. Associated Press.

Oahu

The contractor building the state's largest wind energy project on Oahu's North Shore has started heavy construction on the facility that will supply the electricity needs of an estimated 14,500 homes. Star-Advertiser.

A group is protesting recent developments at a Kunia farm.KHON2.

At the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, they honored those who've served in our military - past and present, living and dead. As F-22 fighter jets passed overhead with a missing man flyover, attendees reflected on both peace and preparedness. Hawaii News Now.

More than 40,000 residents and visitors packed into Ala Moana Beach Park and Magic Island to experience the annual Lantern Floating Ceremony. KITV4.

Stefanie Jefts said she grew up in Hawaii, but last year was the first time she participated in the Lantern Floating Hawaii ceremony at Magic Island. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

A $1 million Waimea project, for which Gov. Neil Abercrombie announced Friday he had released funding, won’t be going ahead after all. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo's Memorial Day commemoration featured an address by Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who said that “until today” the governor had traditionally spoken on Memorial Day at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe, Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

Help is on the way for some 65 vacant units in Hilo’s Lanakila Homes Public Housing Complex on Kapio`lani Street. KPUA.

On Sunday, a group of about 20 veggy-loving volunteers gathered in downtown Hilo to give new life to land once sacrificed to development. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Meetings will be held Wednesday on Lanai and Thursday on Molokai to provide the opportunity for public input on the development of the 2012 to 2017 State Historic Preservation Plan. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa defended Maui on Friday as not only a great place for a vacation but also as a place to do serious business. Maui News.

Workers are needed to serve as precinct officials for primary and general elections this year, according to the Maui County Clerk's Office. Maui News.

Retiring principal: Maui High’s ‘great systems’ to continue. Maui News.

Kauai

State officials will be hosting two public informational meetings on the proposed restoration of wetland and associated coastal upland habitat within the Mana Plain Forest Reserve on Kaua‘i’s Westside. The meetings will be held tonight in Puhi and Wednesday evening in Kekaha. Garden Island.

A Hawaiian monk seal captured on Kaua‘i earlier this month after biting a fish hook was released back into the wild last week, according to state officials. A seal captured on O‘ahu around the same time as the Kaua‘i seal wasn’t so lucky, and was euthanized. Garden Island.

Molokai

A coming rate increase for Maui Electric Company (MECO) customers will mean a 3.16 percent increase for ratepayers in Maui County. That means a typical Molokai household using 400 kilowatt hours of electricity per month will pay an extra $5.25 on their monthly bill, for a total of about $193. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii beaches in top 10, Supreme Court mulls Hawaiian burials, rail, Maui ups property taxes, water rates, Kaneohe Bay Marines leave war behind, Japanese bird crowding out Mauna Kea natives, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Kahanamoku Beach Waikiki (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Three Hawaii beaches made this year's list of top 10 U.S. beaches, but the top spot went to Coronado's 1.5-mile stretch of sand and sea in San Diego. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Democrats will be holding their state convention over the weekend. Associated Press.

No one living on a Neighbor Island has ever been elected to represent Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District — and it's a safe bet voters will keep this streak going in November. Civil Beat.

The head of Hawaii's beleaguered historic preservation division is under fire for lack of leadership for failing to resolve problems that have led to a threat by the federal government to revoke the agency's certification. Civil Beat.

Attorney General David M. Louie announced today that Wesley Choi, a former employee of the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation, was sentenced yesterday by Judge Richard K. Perkins in the Circuit Court of the First Circuit to two ten-year terms of imprisonment and two five-year terms of imprisonment for his involvement in a scheme to defraud the State of Hawaii. Hawaii Reporter.

The State’s Broadband Initiative has a goal of delivering ultra high-speed internet service throughout the islands to transform how families, businesses and institutions connect to one another and to the world.  Think Tech and the Hawai’I Venter Capital Association sponsored a panel discussion  today titled, “The Need for Speed.”  Hawaii Public Radio.

Six Hawaii public schools have been recognized in The Washington Post’s "2012 High School Challenge Index," which highlights the nation’s top nine percent of schools for effectively preparing students for college success. KITV4.

The State Insurance Division has approved a rate hike request from HMSA. KHON2.

Oahu

A lawyer for a Native Hawaiian whose ancestors are buried in Kakaako asked the Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday to order the city to stop work on the $5.27 billion Hono­lulu rail system until it completes an archaeological survey to determine whether the project will disturb Hawaiian remains. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court is wrestling with the Honolulu rail system's possible track through Native Hawaiian burials after an hour-long oral argument Thursday morning. Civil Beat.

A powerful ally with more than 300,000 members nationwide and thousands of preservation partners in all 50 states has filed an amicus brief yesterday in support of a federal lawsuit challenging the validity of the city's Environmental Impact Statement for its $5.3 billion elevated steel on steel rail project. Hawaii Reporter.

Pacific Resource Partnership, the membership organization that has conducted "push polls" attacking both Honolulu City Council Member Tom Berg and former Gov. Ben Cayetano, released a poll on Wednesday that shows Cayetano losing ground in the Honolulu mayor's race, leaving him statistically tied with Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle. Hawaii Reporter.

Honolulu mayoral candidates Ben Cayetano and Kirk Caldwell bought a handful of TV commercials this week, according to Civil Beat's review of the public files. Civil Beat.

Mayoral candidate Ben Cayetano says he is consulting with attorneys on whether to sue to stop what he calls a smear campaign by a pro-rail interest group. Star-Advertiser.

Families of Waikele bunker explosion victims file lawsuits. Hawaii News Now.

Eight years of continuous war in Iraq and Afghanistan are over for the 3rd Marine Regiment's 3,000 Marines at Kaneohe Bay. Star-Advertiser.

Kaneohe Bay Marines marked the end of an era with a ceremony to commemorate their sacrifices and achievements. KHON2.

Circuit Judge Karen Ahn heard arguments on the request by city prosecutors to keep confidential the video and defense documents seeking the dismissal of a murder charge against federal special agent Christopher Deedy in the shooting. Star-Advertiser.

Amy Asselbaye, who abruptly stepped down from her prominent position as Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s chief of staff last October, is one of four partners who have opened a new coffeehouse in Hawaii Kai. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

Hawaii County schools are set to get $26.2 million to modernize and repair their facilities, part of a $116 million bond issue directed to help rural schools meet federal Race to the Top standards. West Hawaii Today.

An invasive Japanese bird has wiped out tens of thousands of native birds at the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge on Hawaii island, two University of Hawaii researchers have found. Star-Advertiser.

A total of 57 electric vehicles (EVs) are on Big Island roads, according to new data provided this week by the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association.Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A resolution that would increase property taxes across the board and increase the minimum tax by $100 was approved by the Maui County Council on Wednesday morning. Maui News.

The Public Utilities Commission has approved an interim rate increase of 3.2 percent, effective June 1, for Maui Electric Co.'s customers on Maui, Molokai and Lanai. Maui News.

Mayor Alan Arakawa signed a bill Wednesday to establish new regulations for short-term rentals. Maui News.

A new master plan through 2030 will be unveiled tomorrow (Friday, May 25, 2012) for pedestrians and bicyclists in central Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

On Wednesday, the Kaua‘i County Council introduced a bill to ban smoking at county parks, including the multi-use path on Kaua‘i’s Eastside. Garden Island.

Gov. releases $26.8M for education facilities; none for Kaua‘i. Garden Island.