Abercrombie wants to save Natatorium, four file election protests with Supreme Court, 500 Big Island school employees await DOE clearance, UH apologizes for Stevie Wonder fiasco, Keauhou Beach Hotel to close, candidates file to replace Gabbard on Honolulu Council, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Waikiki Natatorium (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Gov. Neil Abercrombie is considering taking the Waikiki Natatorium back from the city to pursue his own plans for the dilapidated memorial that jets out into the shallow waters of Oahu’s south shore. Civil Beat.

The administration of Gov. Neil Abercrombie appears ready to regain control over the Waikiki War Memorial Natatorium and then try to restore its crumbling facade and bleachers, reversing a direction taken by the city in recent years to clear the structure from the valuable piece of Waikiki Beach. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former Gov. Linda Lingle have agreed to five debates before their November general election for U.S. Senate, sources say. Star-Advertiser.

The media's job is to help voters better understand whom they are voting for. But, far more often than not, reporters are blocked from speaking directly to the candidates and most often have to settle for canned quotes distributed via their staff. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Republican Party is $66,000 in debt but has about $71,000 cash on hand, according to the party’s most recent FEC report covering the month of July. Civil Beat.

After a private meeting of almost eight hours, the Board of Regents backs the University of Hawaii president's shifting of Jim Donovan to a new job. Star-Advertiser.

A heavily redacted University of Hawaii report on how it lost $200,000 on its cancelled Stevie Wonder fundraising concert said UH officials never properly investigated the promoters of the event, failed to obtain cancellation insurance for it and took no steps to safeguard the money after it was wired to a Mainland “escrow account.” Hawaii Reporter.

Officials at the University of Hawai‘i say there was “no criminal wrongdoing” by UH employees and that the university was “most likely a victim of a fraud in a failed effort to raise money for the athletic department through a concert. Maui Now.

Almost a month and a half after the Stevie Wonder Concert fiasco, the University of Hawaii released an official accounting of what went wrong -- along with several apologies. KITV4.

In spite of pleas from state lawmakers and some members of the public, the UH Board of Regents did not re-instate Jim Donovan as athletics director Wednesday and instead concurred with his transfer to a new UH communications job. Hawaii News Now.

University of Hawaii President M.R.C Greenwood called a press conference Wednesday and was quick to apologize to U.H. faculty, students and supporters saying that the botched Stevie Wonder concert was a mistake. KHON2.

State roundup for Aug. 23. Associated Press.

Oahu

A lawsuit against the Honoulu Police Department over deleted posts on the department’s Facebook page could set a legal precedent, a First Amendment scholar told the Associated Press. Associated Press.

Less than an hour after Tulsi Gabbard said her farewell to the Honolulu City Council on Wednesday, former Councilman Jon Yoshimura was signing up to run for the seat. Two other urban Honolulu residents had joined him by the end of the day, while several others continued to voice interest. Star-Advertiser.

Candidates running for the seat vacated by Tulsi Gabbard can start filing for the General Election after Wednesday's Honolulu City Council meeting. KITV4.

First Wind company says independent tests sat the damaged Kahuku wind farm how soil and air quality levels are safe, and residents were never in danger. KHON2.

The nonprofit Pacific Housing Assistance Corp.’s plans to build a 15-story, 160-unit affordable senior housing project in Honolulu has been delayed. Pacific Business News.

The Defense Commissary Agency purchases more than $40 million in local products each year for sale at stores for military members, retirees and families.   The American Logistics Association hosted its annual taste-testing Hawai’i Show today in Waikiki in an effort to add to their list of Hawai’i-made products. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii

Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz said Wednesday that the Abercrombie administration would monitor preparations in Hawaii County before the November general election, but urged the county clerk to work with the state Office of Elections to prevent a repeat of the irregularities that marred the primary. Star-Advertiser.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka’s granddaughter wants a do-over in the Aug. 11 primary. If that doesn’t work she at least wants a recount. Civil Beat.

A state house candidate from the Big Island has filed a complaint with the Hawaii Supreme Court over primary election day problems on the Big Island. KHON2.

Fired elections warehouse manager Glen Shikuma has died, leaving his friends shocked and grieving, a police investigation in turmoil and a personal injury attorney contemplating the next move. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Councilman Dennis Onishi said he plans to draft a council resolution requiring the County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi to seek help running the General Election. He said that the resolution could be heard as soon as mid-September. Civil Beat.

Five hundred Hawaii Island public school employees still haven’t been brought back to work this fall after the state Department of Education shifted the responsibility for background checks to the island district level. West Hawaii Today.

The Keauhou Beach Hotel will close Oct. 31, leaving 112 employees without a job. West Hawaii Today.

About 112 Hawaii island hotel workers are scrambling to find jobs in the wake of Kamehameha Schools' abrupt announcement that it will shut down and eventually demolish the poorly performing Keauhou Beach Hotel. Star-Advertiser.

The last feature film to come to the Big Island was “Predators” in 2009, and economic activity from film, television and still photography shoots has been down sharply since, said Big Island Film Commissioner John Mason. Tribune-Herald.

Maui
Conservationists are upset that sheep were shuttled to Maui. Maui News.

Nine people were charged with gambling offenses last week when police vice officers executed search warrants at a Wailuku residence, police said. Maui News.

Kauai

A request by members of the Kaua‘i County Council for all county parks’ patrons to “show aloha and respect” for non-smokers by refraining from smoking near other patrons is now unanimous. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i County Council on Wednesday met in executive session to be briefed by the county’s legal counsel on a civil suit brought against the administration by mixed martial arts fighter Lebeau Lagmay, who got shot with a stun gun in 2009 by police in the parking lot of  the emergency room of Wilcox Memorial Hospital in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

The sand beach at Wailua Beach has been moving — tons of it now relocated to the Aloha Beach Resort end — littered with vegetative debris and creating islets in Wailua River, which never existed before. Garden Island.

Honolulu rail in court, Catholic priest child sex charges hit Hawaii, UH probes Stevie Wonder fiasco, school superintendent gets poor review, Maui hotels at top of sun and fun resort lists, kauai wildfire almost contained, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail project commences, courtesy photo

Federal Judge A. Wallace Tashima heard two hours of arguments Tuesday in a lawsuit that seeks to stop work on the city's $5.26 billion rail project, but gave no clear indication of how he will rule in the case or when. Star-Advertiser.

A federal judge from California is now the central figure in a legal fight that could decide the fate of the controversial $5.26 billion rail project and perhaps even determine who will be Honolulu's next mayor. Civil Beat.

The fate of Honolulu’s elevated-rail transit project is now in the hands of a federal judge. Pacific Business News.

Opponents of the Honolulu Rail Transit Project got their final day in Federal Court today and expect a decision in a few weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

A standing room only crowd packed a courthouse inside the Prince Kuhio Federal Building Tuesday as U.S. District Judge A. Wallace Tashima heard oral arguments in a lawsuit filed by opponents of the city's $5.3 billion rail project. KITV4.

Rail had its day in federal court in an environmental challenge that could derail or delay the project. KHON2.

Did the city break environmental laws in the planning of the rail project? A federal judge is considering that right now and his decision could affect the future of the rail. Hawaii News Now.

Will Honolulu’s pricey and controversial rail project ever be built or will it be derailed in court? That could depend on what Ninth Circuit Court Judge Wallace Tashima decides in the next few weeks. Hawaii Reporter.

Rep. Cynthia Thielen and Sen. Robert Kouchi would appear to be the state's wealthiest lawmakers. Civil Beat.

Working Families for Hawaii has spent more than $70,000 supporting Democratic candidate Mazie Hirono, including nearly $34,000 on radio spots bashing former Democratic primary candidate Ed Case. One would think that a super PAC that has emerged as third biggest outside spender in Hawaii’s U.S. Senate race would be anything but anonymous. Civil Beat.

The Board of Education Tuesday gave Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi an overall rating of "fully meets expectations" in her first evaluation since being appointed to the position in September 2010. Star-Advertiser.

On the eve of a Board of Regents session to discuss the Stevie Wonder concert fiasco, University of Hawaii President M.R.C. Greenwood said Tuesday that athletic director Jim Dono­van was on his way out before the ill-fated venture. Star-Advertiser.

A day before the University of Hawaii Board of Regents meets behind closed doors to discuss the investigation into UH's failed Stevie Wonder concert and Jim Donovan's re-assignment as athletics director, it's unclear how much of the probe UH will make public. Hawaii News Now.

State roundup for Aug. 22. Associated Press.

Oahu

A Honolulu police officer on trial for theft and tampering with government records was found not guilty Tuesday afternoon on all thirteen counts. KHON2.

University of Hawaii-West O‘ahu officials have been giving out the wrong address for their campus for the past six months, but an estimated 1,800 students and 60 faculty still showed up for the first day of classes Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Are public agencies allowed to censor comments on their social media pages and can they be held liable for deleting comments made on their social media pages or for banning users? Hawaii Reporter.

Two gun advocates who run a charity called the Hawaii Defense Foundation are suing the city because they claim the Hono­lulu Police Department has censored, removed and banned their comments from HPD's Facebook page. Star-Advertiser.

A resident of Mayor Wright Homes, who fought to make sure everyone had hot water at the public housing project, is now in hot water himself.  Fetu Kolio is being evicted. KITV4.

The push to keep the North Shore country has lost one of its chief advocates. Civil Beat.

A local affordable-housing developer has arranged to buy the former Honolulu Advertiser property in Kakaako, and envisions putting up two moderate-priced condominium towers on the site while preserving the historic News Building. Star-Advertiser.

The producers of “Hawaii Five-0” will move from their soundstage at the former Honolulu Advertiser building once the show’s third season wraps production next spring, but exactly where is the question. Pacific Business News.

Carlisle paid price at polls for beefing with Cayetano. Star-Advertiser.

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs announced Monday its acquisition of the Gentry Pacific Design Center, located in the 500 block of Nimitz Highway in Honolulu. KITV4.

Hawaii
The child sex abuse scandal surrounding the Catholic Church has hit close to home, with fingers of accusation pointing at a priest revered in the local community. Tribune-Herald.

The family of a New York teen swept out to sea while hiking on the Big Island filed a wrongful death lawsuit Tuesday, claiming tour guides were negligent for leading a group of teenagers to a dangerous area. Associated Press.

The draft environmental assessment for the Kapi‘olani Street extension will be available for comment Thursday. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County is moving forward with development of a park in Pahoa village with funds previously set aside for a regional community park in Hawaiian Paradise Park. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Occupancy at Maui hotels during the first half of the year ranked third-highest among more than 38,000 "island and sun" properties worldwide, according to a new report by Honolulu-based Hospitality Advisors. Maui News.

County of Maui was selected as a finalist for the 2012 Healthiest Employers contest, hosted by the Pacific Business News. Maui Now.

Kauai

Prosecuting Attorney Shaylene Iseri-Carvalho and Deputy County Attorney Justin Kollar squared off Tuesday night at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall for a debate in front of an audience of about 200. Garden Island.

Crews continued to fight high winds and dry conditions to contain the Koke‘e brush fire that is now reported to be 85 percent contained. Garden Island

The Koke‘e State Park Advisory Council will renew its work to review and comment on the Koke‘e and Waimea Canyon State Parks Master Plan. Garden Island.

Hawaii hospitality workers well-paid, Blackhawk fatalities identified, Hawaii teachers, state enter federal mediation, disability rights lawsuit settled, county clerk keeps job, copter pilot pleads guilty to shuttling axis deer between Hawaii, Maui, UH West Oahu risks accreditation loss, Oracle CEO Ellison blasted for tax loopholes, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii hotel pool party (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Workers in the hospitality sector of Honolulu’s tourism industry earn the third-highest wages among major U.S. markets, behind only Las Vegas and New York City, according to an analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data. Pacific Business News.

The Pentagon on Monday made public the names of the four Black Hawk crew members from Schofield Barracks and three Navy sailors who lost their lives last week in a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan. Star-Advertiser.

The State and the Teachers Union, HSTA, will enter into federal mediation to resolve the teachers contract issues. KHON2.

Leadership at the Hawaii State Teachers Association has agreed to an offer by Gov. Neil Abercrombie to use a federal mediator to resolve their long-standing contractual differences. Star-Advertiser.

Axis deer

A Vietnam War helicopter pilot pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to illegally flying axis deer from Maui to Hawaii island in one of his helicopters, and flying mouflon cross-bred sheep from Hawaii island to Maui in a wildlife hunting case expected to expand. Star-Advertiser.

Ten Hawaii business people have accounted for more than $250,000 in campaign contributions to state and local candidates since the beginning of the year. Civil Beat.

A proposed settlement agreement has been reached between the state and the Hawaii Disability Rights Center on a class-action lawsuit by individuals who were denied mental health services because of state policy changes. Star-Advertiser.

As Hawaii farmers and ranchers continue to suffer from a lingering drought, meteorologists said Monday that they fear more severe dry weather could be in store for the state. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Aug. 21. Associated Press.

Oahu

Hawaii ratepayers are on the hook for $2.4 million in infrastructure costs for Oahu’s Kahuku wind farm, even though it’s only produced a fraction of the energy it was expected to and is now shut down due to a fire that devastated its battery storage facility earlier this month. Civil Beat.

The landmark Honolulu Advertiser Building, which has housed Hawaii Five-0 for the past two years, is being sold to local developer Marshall Hung, who plans to build condos. Hawaii News Now.

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges has slapped the University of Hawaii West Oahu with a "notice of concern," one step below a formal warning that its brand new Kapolei campus could be in danger of losing its accreditation. Hawaii News Now.

Local residents have been protesting against Genetically Modified Organisms being grown on the North Shore since 1999. Hawaii Public Radio.

State Department of Transportation employees and prison inmates worked together Monday morning to clear a chronic homeless encampment under the H-1 Freeway Airport Viaduct. KITV4.

Hawaii

Following a daylong session Monday with most County Council members expressing support for County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi, Council Chairman Dominic Yagong said he’s planning a trip to Honolulu this week to meet with state officials to help mediate tension between Kawauchi and the state Elections Office. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Council Chairman Dominic Yagong said Monday that he would not dismiss County Clerk Jamae Kawa­uchi, who has been harshly criticized by the state Office of Elections as an ineffective leader after more than a dozen precincts opened late for the primary election. Star-Advertiser.

The governor and the Hawaii County Council are under growing pressure to diffuse a rift between state and Hawaii County elections office. KITV4.

Under fire for primary election poll opening delays, Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi says she has asked the governor for an independent review of the state elections office. Associated Press.

The Hawaii County Clerk has called the Aug. 11 primary an election-related disaster, and is asking the governor's administration to investigate and take control of the state voting office. KHON2.

Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi noted a series of blunders during the primary election while addressing the County Council on Monday: misdelivery of election materials, voting equipment malfunctions, and incorrectly programmed phones at polling locations. Tribune-Herald.

The Big Island became the epicenter of primary election day fiascos when the delayed opening of numerous polling places forced Gov. Neil Abercrombie to issue an emergency proclamation authorizing them to stay open for an extra 90 minutes. Civil Beat.

Democrat Lorraine Inouye conceded the primary contest for state Senate District 4 late Monday. West Hawaii Today.

Well over 100 people showed up to testify tonight at a hearing held by the Department of Land and Natural Resources on proposed rules for the Public Land Development Corporation. Big Island Now.

Maui
At $150 a pop, Maui Economic Development Board sold out all 700 tickets to its 30th annual benefit Saturday to support science, technology, engineering and math programs as well as emerging high-tech companies on the Valley Isle. Maui News.

A record $338,046 was raised during the Ke Alahele Education Fund dinner held over the weekend at the Grand Wailea Resort. Maui Now.

Hawaii's primary election ended in victories for Democrat Mazie Hirono and Republican Linda Lingle just a week ago, but the U.S. Senate candidates are already engaged in a heated face-off to secure support for the November general election. Maui News.

Kauai

Fifty-five students by Friday is the unspoken goal of Kaua‘i Community College officials on Monday.Garden Island.

The Hanalei refuse transfer station is temporarily not accepting green waste because the facility has reached its permitted capacity for this material. Garden Island.

The light cast in the darkness is a fragile thing, said the Rev. Kosen Ishikawa of the Koloa Jodo Mission Sunday during the toro nagashi ceremony. Garden Island.

Larry Ellison

Lanai

Oracle CEO Larry Ellison is being called out of line for using massive payouts in a tax deductibility loophole to buy unnecessary things such as the Hawaiian island of Lanai, which is estimated to cost the billionaire upwards of $500 million, according to a new report showing how tax dollars subsidize exorbitant executive pay. Pacific Business News.

Honolulu rail project to get its day in court, low turnout at late-opening precincts, Inouye plans to run again, Hawaii legislators rake in big bucks during session, Hawaii watches California GMO debate, Alaska looks to Hawaii as natural gas market, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu rail courtesy photo

Supporters and opponents of the city's $5.26 billion rail project will be back in court this week for arguments in a lawsuit alleging city and Federal Transit Administration officials violated federal environmental law in the planning of Honolulu's train system. Star-Advertiser.

A much anticipated lawsuit that could determine the fate of Honolulu’s $5.26 billion rail project is nearing an end, and the timing could affect the race for Honolulu mayor. Civil Beat.

Sovereignty activists who want Hawaii to leave statehood behind and become a sovereign nation have put a stop to all the Statehood Day celebrations. Hawaii Reporter.

Hawaii lawmakers raked in close to $800,000 for their campaign purses during this year's legislative session, a Civil Beat analysis of campaign finance filings shows. Civil Beat.

U.S. Sen. Daniel Inouye will turn 88 next month. And, if his health keeps holding up, the spry World War II hero said on Saturday that he will run for another six-year term in four years. Maui News.

Political Analysts Say Make Way for Sen. Hirono. Civil Beat.

Hawaii's Department of Agriculture is warning the public to be careful when attending fairs or other events where there are pigs. Associated Press.

The state teacher's union board plans to meet Monday in an effort to resolve the teacher's contract issues. KHON2.

For more than a year, some Alaska political leaders have been quietly pursuing an untapped market for the state’s vast stores of natural gas: Hawaii. Associated Press.

On election day California residents will be asked if labeling of genetically modified foods should be labeled. If the most populated state says, “Yes” it could have impacts across the nation, including Hawai`i. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for Aug. 20. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Peter Carlisle's administration is moving forward with changes to 12 additional bus routes Sunday as the city looks to save $10 million in fuel and labor costs. KITV4.

Get ready for more cars on the road Monday morning. About 40,000 university and private school students are heading back to class. KHON2.

On Monday, 40,000 college students will add to the freeway and bus congestion. KITV4.

Every year, tens of thousands of people head to the popular Made in Hawaii Festival at the Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall. But how many of the products are actually made in Hawaii? Hawaii News Now.

The new headmaster of the Kamehameha Schools' Kapalama Campus says he wants to continue the work of his predecessor — longtime Kapalama President and Headmaster Michael J. Chun — in moving from "being a school for Native Hawaiians to being a Native Hawaiian school." Star-Advertiser.

Fans of "Hawaii Five-0" can exhale now: CBS announced today that it will hold a red-carpet Sunset on the Beach premiere of the crime drama one day before the start of the third season. Star-Advertiser.

Disney has sent out a request for proposals for its expansion of Aulani, which is part of the Ko Olina resort's final build-out. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii County precincts (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Hawaii

Three West Hawaii precincts that opened late on primary election day were among the four with the worst voter turnout in the county, a trend that leads at least one candidate to question whether the late openings cost her crucial votes. West Hawaii Today.

Point your index finger to the ground and measure to about the first two digits. That’s about 2 inches, the amount of water that a rain gauge at Waikoloa town has gathered this year. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiian Electric Co. has paid a prominent volcanologist to tell the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that Madame Pele is causing the haze over Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Maui

Construction of a long-discussed public parking facility for Wailuku isn't in the "foreseeable future," although the county has spent $1.2 million in federal funds on design work and environmental studies. Maui News.

After the state Supreme Court kicked back the state Commission on Water Resource Management's 2010 ruling about exactly where - and how much - water to restore to Na Wai Eha, opponents said last week that they were jubilant that the commission will be forced to "redo" its review of competing water uses. Maui News.

A public informational meeting will be held later this month to discuss preparations of a master plan for the district of Pulehunui on Maui. Maui Now.

Kauai

The primary election results show the Kaua‘i County Prosecutor’s race as a close contest, and the two candidates will present their ideas in a debate this Tuesday. Garden Island.

Crews continued to fight high winds and dry conditions but were making progress in fighting the wildfire along the Poki‘i, Paua and Waiaka ridges in Koke‘e on Sunday. Garden Island.

Molokai
The amount of solid waste exported out of the Kalaupapa settlement is estimated to near 41,000 pounds by the end of September, increasing almost 50 percent from last year’s 27,000 pounds of trash. Molokai Dispatch.

Molokai’s Native Hawaiian health care provider, Na Pu`uwai, recently received $1,696,281 in federal funding. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii Blackhawk in fatal Afghanistan crash, Hirono ducks Maui debate, Elections Office blasts Hawaii county clerk, Gabbard steps down from Honolulu city Council, Ellison mum on Lanai plans, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Blackhawk over Mauna Kea (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

A Schofield Barracks Black Hawk helicopter crashed Thursday in southern Afghanistan, and at least some of the seven Americans onboard who were killed were out of Hawaii, sources said. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii is observing Statehood Day. The third Friday in August marks when President Dwight Eisenhower signed the proclamation that made statehood official in 1959. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's economy is growing at a slower pace than previously estimated despite a stronger-than-expected performance by the visitor industry, according to a report released by the state Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Prices at the gas pump are rising again after 11 weeks of declines, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. Star-Advertiser.

Governor suggests federal mediator to resolve teacher dispute. KITV4.

Many Hawaii high school students say they aren't going to gym class or playing on a sports team, something that could be leading to higher rates of obesity and health problems, a new survey found. Civil Beat.

With the primary election wrapped up, candidates and super PACs have begun to gear up for the next chapter of campaigning. Hawaii's U.S. Senate candidates Linda Lingle and Mazie Hirono are already laying into each other in a feisty back-and-forth that began even before the primary. Civil Beat.

State roundup for Aug. 16. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Congressional candidate Tulsi Gabbard's decision to resign from the Honolulu City Council on Thursday sent the Oahu political community into a frenzy, with at least 10 potential successors putting out their election feelers. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard might be saving taxpayers money with her resignation, but her vacancy on the Honolulu City Council raises many more questions about the future of the government body, the mayoral race and, of course, the $5.26 billion Honolulu rail project. Civil Beat.

Hawaii law prohibits intimidation of voters and interfering with completion of their ballots. Those issues are at the core of allegations made by a Kalihi family against state House candidate Romy Cachola. Civil Beat.

A Honolulu company that develops algae for use in biofuels is receiving a clean technology award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Hawaii News Now.

A one-of-a-kind mountain bike owned by a tireless advocate for bicycle safety was stolen Wednesday outside of Honolulu Hale. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of people, including Gov. Neil Abercrombie and several lawmakers, were among those who gathered Thursday to celebrate the soon-to-open new campus for the University of Hawaii-West Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii

Thirteen precincts in Hawaii County failed to open on time for the primary election, a report released Thursday shows, but the delays and other irregularities do not appear legally sufficient to change election results. Star-Advertiser.

The state Office of Elections issued a report Thursday highly critical of Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi’s handling of the primary election. Tribune-Herald.

In a scathing six-page report, the state Office of Elections criticized Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi after several problems at Big Island polling places during Saturday's primary election. Hawaii News Now.

In the months leading up to the primary election, Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago said the office was frustrated by the lack of communication with Hawaii County Clerk Jamae Kawauchi. KITV4.

There's reaction from the Hawaii County Clerk over a new report that accuses her of poor planning and leadership. KHON2.

Hawaii Electric Light Co. has requested a 4.2 percent rate increase. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Former governor and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda Lingle on Wednesday evening had the Historic Iao Theater stage to herself when her opponent, U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono, opted out of a debate saying it wasn't fair. Maui News.

As Debate Rages Nationally Over Taxpayer Expenditures, Ninth Circuit Court Judges and Lawyers Enjoy Maui's Peaceful Sanctuary. Hawaii Reporter.

Bio-Logical Capital - which describes itself as a land investment, development and conservation company - has signed a sales agreement to purchase the 4,500-acre Hana Ranch in rural East Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

The Princeville Community Center was standing room only with about 20 percent raising their hands as burglary victims. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Department of Water has scheduled a public hearing next week regarding proposed amendments to the rules and regulations of the Kaua‘i Board of Water Supply. Garden Island.

Lanai

It’s still a mystery as to what Oracle CEO Larry Ellison plans to do with the island of Lanai. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii remains in drought, Honolulu lame duck mayor loses council clout, Osprey coming to military bases, former Governor Waihee, others settle $1.3M burial plan lawsuit, mail-in ballots raise voter intimidation concerns, Maui ranchland sold, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii cattle (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

Although frequent rain has returned to parts of Hawaii, more than half the state remains in drought. Star-Advertiser.

Extremely dry conditions in parts of Hawaii are forcing some ranchers to reduce their herds as they struggle to grow grass to feed cattle. Associated Press.

Former Hawaii Gov. John Waihee and three associates have agreed to pay $1.3 million to settle claims by the state Attorney General that they helped to illegally divert some $30 million from funeral and burial plans sold to thousands of Hawaii residents. Hawaii Reporter.

The public school teachers union plans to wait for the Hawaii Labor Relations Board to decide whether an imposed contract violated members' rights before proceeding with legal or other action. Star-Advertiser.

A CNBC special report named Hawaii the second-to-worst state in the nation for business in 2012. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Medical Service Association continued its profit streak in the second quarter, posting a $9.4 million net gain, up from $5.8 million in the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for Aug. 16. Associated Press.

Oahu

The Honolulu City Council voted 7-2 on Wednesday to override Mayor Peter Carlisle's veto of a bill banning all commercial activity at Kailua Beach Park, putting to rest the controversial subject -- at least for now. Star-Advertiser.

Bill 11 enforcement begins immediately as council passes override. KITV4.

The Honolulu City Council unanimously approved two resolutions Wednesday designed to encourage Mayor Peter Carlisle's administration to reverse unpopular cuts of city bus service. Star-Advertiser.

The Navy has completed plans for basing up to 24 tilt-rotor Osprey aircraft and 27 Cobra and Huey helicopters at the Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps base, but questions persist over how much noise the aircraft will create for area homes. Star-Advertiser.

Rising electricity and gasoline costs were the main drivers of an increase in consumer prices in Honolulu during the first half of this year. Star-Advertiser.

Concerns Of Voter Intimidation Raised In Cachola Victory. Civil Beat.

The Hawaii Republican Party is calling into question the qualifications of Chris (Kalani) Manabat, the Democrat candidate for House District 40, “to serve his community based on his dishonesty with the voters and lack of work experience.” Civil Beat.

Despite denials from Hawaiian Electric Company that customers are being overcharged due to a billing system change, a Nanakuli man went to drastic extremes Wednesday to prove he's being ripped off. Hawaii News Now.

A unique ceremony marked the change of command for a Hawaii based unit. KHON2.

Hawaii

Osprey aircraft tactical training will commence as early as 2014 at Pohakuloa Training Area, a U.S. Marine Corps official said Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

For the first time on Hawaii Island, more voters opted to vote early, rather than report to their precincts on primary election day. Tribune-Herald.

The artist’s rendering will soon become reality at the long-awaited Hawaii Community College at Palamanui, thanks to the recent release of state general obligation bonds. West Hawaii Today.

The Hawaii County Council unanimously voted in favor of a resolution putting Ooma atop the list of open space to be purchased next. West Hawaii Today.

The head of Hawaii County elections apologized for voter delays, saying much of the problems were caused by communications breakdowns. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's chief elections officer says Big Island precinct chairs will be interviewed to find out how many primary polls opened late and why. KPUA.

Maui

The Hawaii Supreme Court struck down on Wednesday a 2010 ruling by the state water commission, paving the way for more water to flow through a river and three streams on Maui. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Supreme Court vacated Wednesday a state Commission on Water Resource Management ruling in a dispute over surface waters the so-called Na Wai Eha, or four great waters of Maui. Maui News.

Bio-Logical Capital LLC will acquire the 4,500-acre Hana Ranch in East Maui for an undisclosed price from Hana Ranch Partners LLC, the two companies said Wednesday. Pacific Business News.

The owners of Hana Ranch have reached an agreement with Bio-Logical Capital, the company that has been seeking to purchase the east Maui parcel of land for months. Civil Beat.

Bio-Logical Capital -- which describes itself as a land investment, development and conservation company -- has signed a sales agreement to purchase the 4,500-acre Hana Ranch in rural East Maui. Maui News.

Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy said Hawaii is an ideal place for federal 9th Circuit judges, lawyers and other court officials to continue learning, as he spoke Tuesday afternoon to a gathering of Maui attorneys. Maui News.

Kauai

There were no shortage of ideas for improving the Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor Wednesday when more than 200 people overflowed the Waimea Neighborhood Center at the informational meeting hosted by Sen. Ron Kouchi and Rep. Dee Morikawa. Garden Island.

Approval to release state grant funds to start work on a juvenile restorative justice program was deferred after discussion Wednesday at a special meeting held by the Kaua‘i County Council. Garden Island.

A report on the results of a recent waste assessment conducted in county offices showed a significant increase in waste diversion activities since the last assessment was made in 2009. Garden Island.

Lingle walks political tightrope, Hawaii forges energy partnership with Japan, China, Honolulu bus cuts blasted, political second-guessing continues, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lingle and Obama in happier times, White House courtesy photo

Former Gov. Linda Lingle, who faces political risks in criticizing Hawaii-born President Barack Obama, has turned to a riper target in her Republican campaign for U.S. Senate: Congress. Star-Advertiser.

Congressional candidate Tulsi Gabbard said she will decide by next week whether to resign her Honolulu City Council seat in time for a successor to be elected at the general election, a move that would likely save the city as much as $150,000. Star-Advertiser.

We were baffled by the turn of events. We nailed Tulsi Gabbard's big win over Mufi Hannemann right on the nose, but our otherwise sterling election survey record was tarnished with Mazie Hirono's decisive victory over Ed Case in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Civil Beat.

The collaboration between Hawaii and Japan in the push for renewable energy is intensifying as Japan finds itself in an increasingly vulnerable position following the devastating 2011 tsunami and nuclear disaster. Civil Beat.

Hawai’i is partnering with China to launch a clean energy investment and deployment program in the state. Maui Now.

Project financing is one of the biggest challenges most renewable energy startups face and that was the topic of one of the more interesting and well-attended panels at the 4th Annual Asia-Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo at the Hawaii Convention Center on Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission says Hawaiian Electric Co. will pay $50,000 to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit by an employee who is blind in one eye. Associated Press.

State roundup for Aug. 15. Associated Press.

Oahu

City Council Chairman Ernie Martin is urging Mayor Peter Carlisle to restore bus service that was cut earlier this year, saying it now appears inevitable the next administration will cancel the unpopular bus cuts and reinstate the old routes and schedules. Star-Advertiser.

The city continues to buy property in the line of the rail transit project, some for much higher than the homes are valued by the city. Hawaii News Now.

Instead of just focusing on beating him outright in the November 6 General Election, state Rep. Kymberly Pine is demanding the resignation of her General Election opponent in Council District 1, incumbent Honolulu City Council Member Tom Berg. Hawaii Reporter.

City Councilman Tom Berg has been stripped of two committee assignments by Council Chairman Ernie Martin because of his outburst during a Transportation Committee meeting July 26. Star-Advertiser.

One month after a Haleiwa community group filed suit against the City and County of Honolulu for allegedly mishandling the proposed sale of Haleiwa Regional Park, two Native Hawaiians have filed their own case against the city. Civil Beat.

The state has approved the sale of Hawaii Medical Center-West to the Queen's Medical Center for $73.2 million, clearing a major regulatory hurdle for the reopening of West Oahu's only acute-care hospital. Star-Advertiser.

Duane "Dog" Chapman has his bags packed for London, but a murder conviction from the late 1970s is keeping him out of the United Kingdom. KITV4.

Hawaii

There were still more questions than answers Tuesday after state Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago held an almost two-hour debriefing of county clerks. West Hawaii Today.

The state Elections Office and the Hawaii County Council chairman are still trying to determine why some Hawaii island polling places opened late for Saturday's primary and how to prevent a recurrence in the general election. Star-Advertiser.

State office elections officials held a de-brief meeting in Hilo Tuesday to discuss the issues that resulted in primary election delays on the Big Island. KHON2.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is awarding Hawaii nearly $2.5 million in grants to buy thousands of acres on the Big Island to protect endangered species. Hawaii News Now.

The Hawai`i biofuel company Aina Koa Pono is back at the Public Utilities Commission with a new proposal to supply plant based electricity. The new proposal is supposed to save customers millions of dollars over the last deal, but will it be enough to convince the PUC it’s the right choice for Hawai`i’s residents? Hawaii Public Radio.

Three endangered aeo got their first taste of freedom Sunday after a rehabilitation lasting more than two months. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy today called the Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference in Kaanapali a "prudent and proper exercise of the judicial function." Maui News.

Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy says the Senate confirmation for new federal judges is too political and is keeping out highly qualified candidates who don’t want to go through the difficult process. Associated Press.

Maui County is a step closer to implementing a new industrial zoning class that would allow for more than 50 uses, including chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, quarries and landfills. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i was the only island in the state that experienced a rise in its residential electric rate in August even though the price of oil was down early this summer. Garden Island.

The Democratic Party completed its unity rally sweep through the state by hosting several hundred people, including Kaua‘i candidates for various offices and their respective supporters, Tuesday at the Kaua‘i Veterans Center in Lihu‘e. Garden Island.

In a time when most financial institutions charge more than $30 for bounced checks, Kauai County is still charging $7.50 for such a fee. But that may change pretty soon — and very steeply, as a new proposed fee would increase the penalty 400 percent. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission acted Tuesday to help ensure that an affordable housing project tied to a Princeville shopping center expansion would be developed after permits are issued. Garden Island.

Molokai

In an effort to prevent further overfishing, vandalism and overall neglect of natural resources of Mo`omomi Beach, a gate will be installed to restrict vehicle access to the area. Molokai Dispatch.

Hawaii County election in the state spotlight, struggling UH athletics program seeks financial support, Thai workers protest trafficking dismissal, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Election 'cans' await scrutiny at Hawaii County Clerk's Office (c) 2012 All Hawaii News

An emergency County Council meeting, election challenges and calls for an investigation are coming on the heels of Saturday’s primary election, when many Hawaii County polling places did not open on time. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Chief Elections Officer Scott Nago will meet with the state’s county clerks today in Hilo for a post-election briefing that will cover slip ups with the Big Island’s primary last Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

The Hawaii County Council will hold a special meeting over voting problems that plagued the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

The fallout from primary election delays on the Big Island continues to mount, from a Hawaii County Council hearing to a state election review and a likely Supreme Court challenge. KHON2.

State tries correcting primary election issues. KITV4.

Hawaii's U.S. Senate race is expected to draw lots of national money now that the primary is over as both Republicans fight to take over the Senate from Democrats. Civil Beat.

Before the Hawaii primary becomes a distant memory, there's a few newsworthy items to share that may have gotten lost in the haze of Saturday and Sunday. Civil Beat.

Something should be said about the careers of Democrats Ed Case and Mufi Hannemann. Both answered the bell this year after losing two years ago and not thinking enough about why they lost. Star-Advertiser.

FACT CHECK — Lingle: Hirono Missed 127 Votes In Congress This Year. Civil Beat.

Only 290,724 of Hawaii’s 687,500 registered voters, or 42.3 percent, cast ballots. Of those voters, 148,239 did so in a polling booth and 142,414 submitted absentee ballots.West Hawaii Today.

More than two dozen Thai farm laborers Monday signed a letter to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder lamenting the dismissal of human trafficking charges against people accused of exploiting them. Associated Press.

Osprey Aircraft Expansion Causes Concern. Hawaii Public Radio.

State roundup for Aug. 14. Associated Press.

Oahu

Honolulu City Council Chairman Ernie Martin has removed Councilman Tom Berg from the Transportation Committee following a outburst during a July meeting. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Council Member Tom Berg will now face the music for an outburst a couple weeks ago that caused his colleagues to call police to city hall. Civil Beat.

The future of rail may have gotten even murkier following Hawaii’s primary election, with former Gov. Ben Cayetano getting 44 percent of the vote in the Honolulu mayor’s race and advancing to a runoff against second-place finisher Kirk Caldwell. Pacific Business News.

Despite polls showing the majority of the public opposed to the city’s rail project, and broad support for former Gov. Ben Cayetano’s mayoral candidacy, those voters failed him. Hawaii Reporter.

The police officer who pleaded guilty to federal marijuana possession and cultivation charges for running two indoor growing operations with his girlfriend is no longer an employee of the Honolulu Police Department. Star-Advertiser.

Work will begin soon on restoring portions of historic Kawaiaha‘o Church's 169-year-old wall that were heavily damaged April 2 when a city bus crashed into it. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa Chancellor Tom Apple said it "isn't realistic" to expect the financially struggling University of Hawaii athletic program to balance its books, and questioned whether the state is "willing to pay the price" to be successful. Star-Advertiser.

Senor Frog’s has closed its only Hawaii location, at the Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii

If former Mayor Harry Kim wants his old job back, he’s got to broaden his support beyond Puna. Tribune-Herald.

“It was a real squeaker, wasn’t it?” That’s how Russell Ruderman characterized his narrow victory over longtime state Rep. Bob Herkes to earn the Democratic nomination to represent Puna and Ka‘u in the state Senate. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Kahului was the single state House district Mufi Hannemann claimed in his losing bid to Tulsi Gabbard in Saturday's Democratic primary race for the 2nd Congressional District, according to a geographical analysis of voter results. Maui News.

Habitat for Humanity Maui is looking "up instead of out" with its new 16-unit condominium project in Happy Valley. Maui News.

Kauai
After a lengthy discussion, the county Board of Ethics on Friday unanimously found Kaua‘i County Councilmember KipuKai Kuali‘i does have a conflict of interest with regards to matters on the council’s agenda related to the Office of Prosecuting Attorney, Victims of Crime Act funding and appropriations to the Office of Economic Development. Garden Island.

The Board of Ethics on Friday morning shelved without action a request from the Kaua‘i County Council for an investigation of potential ethics violations associated with POHAKU, a diversion program offered by the county Office of Prosecuting Attorney. Garden Island.

Hawaii election oversight scrutinized, Democrats take aim at Lingle, Hawaii Island Senate candidate to protest close vote, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Democratic Unity Breakfast, courtesy Richard Halverson

Gov. Neil Abercrombie said Sunday that the state should review oversight of elections after irregularities on Hawaii island during the primary. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's Democratic party candidates woke up early Sunday to prepare for the general election and to signal that they're uniting to battle Linda Lingle in the race for the U.S. Senate. Hawaii News Now.

Former Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle is opening the final push in Hawaii’s race for U.S. Senate seat by tying her opponent Mazie Hirono to a Congress that has abysmal approval ratings. Associated Press.

Hawaii's U.S. Senate campaigns heat up as candidates take aim at one another. KITV4.

Former Gov. Linda Lingle on Sunday sought to tie U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono to a deeply unpopular Congress, while Hirono said national Republicans do not care that Lingle portrays herself as bipartisan in Hawaii because she would vote with their interests in the U.S. Senate. Star-Advertiser.

In the race for Hawaii's U.S. Senate seat, it's one person versus an entire party. Civil Beat.

Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard grabbed the majority of votes in all but one of 27 state House districts on her way to besting former Mayor Mufi Hannemann and four other candidates for the Democratic nomination for Hawaii's 2nd Congressional District seat. Star-Advertiser.

Where They Won: Breakdown of Senate, Congress, Mayor Races. Civil Beat.

Despite a hotly contested Honolulu mayor’s race and primaries for the Senate and U.S. House, Hawaii appears likely to remain among the states with the lowest voter turnout following Saturday’s primary election. Star-Advertiser.

The political and economic winds are shifting for plans to build wind farms on Lanai and Molokai and ship the power to Oahu via undersea cable. Civil Beat.

Hawaii is the second worst in the nation for patient safety during hospital surgeries but has the lowest number of breast and prostate cancer deaths, according to a recent federal government report on health care quality. Star-Advertiser.

A growing dispute between the state and two private schools that serve special-needs students at public expense is putting a spotlight on new efforts to hold private schools that get public money for special-education students to tougher accountability standards. Star-Advertiser.

State roundup for Aug. 13. Associated Press.

Oahu

Former Gov. Ben Cayetano won 33 of the 35 legislative House districts on Oahu on his way to becoming the top vote-getter in the mayoral primary election Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

The most notable aspect of Saturday’s primary was that the incumbent, Mayor Peter Carlisle, lost, with only 25 percent of the vote. This just doesn’t happen in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Jim Donovan and Rich Sheriff are scheduled to return to work at the University of Hawaii today after a three-week external investigation cleared both of wrong­­doing in the Stevie Wonder concert fiasco. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii

State Senate candidate Lorraine Inouye has refused to concede her race, choosing instead to prepare for a possible legal challenge against the narrow election victory to incumbent Sen. Malama Solomon. Tribune-Herald.

One Big Island candidate feels that polling problems on her island may have affected the race. KHON2.

For the first time in Hawaii County’s history, the number of people voting absentee exceeded the number of regular voters who cast their ballots on Saturday. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A statewide community forum - with videoconferencing from Maui - will be held Wednesday to discuss changes to Medicare and Medicaid services as allowed by the federal Affordable Care Act. Maui News.

The Public Land Development Corporation (PLDC) will hold statewide public hearings, starting Monday August 20, for adoption of new Hawai‘i Administrative Rules (HAR) for the PLDC. Maui Now.

Kauai

Saturday’s lowest-ever percentage turnout for a primary election on Kaua‘i is somewhat offset by the highest-ever number of registered voters for the general election. Garden Island.

The Kaua‘i Planning Commission will continue Tuesday a public hearing initiated July 24 on the expansion of the Princeville Center. Garden Island.

Molokai

A once-in-20-year opportunity is coming up for Molokai residents to share feedback and suggestions for the cable television service provided by Oceanic Time Warner Cable. Molokai Dispatch.

On Molokai, one of the largest landowners in the state is attempting to legalize its controversial method of transporting drinking water. Hawaii Public Radio.