With more and more people using the Internet to find the news and information they want, The Honolulu Advertiser this week is launching the first of its community-focused Web sites to provide the best and most up-to-date local coverage in Hawai'i.

Hawai'i Kai, Kapolei and Kailua now have the first three of more than 20 planned Web sites providing neighborhood news and photos not available anywhere else.

The Web sites, located at www.myAdvertiser.com, contain community specific news stories written by the staff of The Advertiser along with local articles from our weekly "People" community newspapers, West O'ahu People and Windward People. But more important are the reports written by the residents themselves.

"These Web sites provide a community connection with readers to reach each other and increase participation in local events," said James Gonser, community news editor at The Advertiser. "And it is the first time on our Advertiser site that residents can become the reporters themselves and publish what they think is the news."

Using a computer tool called Get Published!, readers can register and submit news articles and photos. The stories can be anything from local benefit concerts, to Christmas craft fairs, to paddling results, to scholarships being offered by civic clubs.

Other features of the site include blogs written by area residents, a comprehensive community calendar, school performance information, breaking news, traffic and weather reports and a very unique feature, the Wish List.

The Wish List is a feature that allows teachers, clubs and community groups to ask for help. Volunteers needed for a cleanup, a sixth-grade class in need of textbooks or a soccer league seeking referees can all be included on the list. Any needs that could benefit a community group with limited resources can use the list.

The Advertiser plans to build a network of these community sites until the entire island of O'ahu and then each island statewide is represented.

"If you live in or near Kapolei, Hawai'i Kai or Kailua, please join us in building a Web community that can make a positive difference in your neighborhood," Gonser said. "Everyone else can take a look and expect to be hearing from us soon."

Starting in Hawai'i Kai this morning, The Advertiser's prize patrol will be in the community from 6 to 8 a.m. at Koko Marina Center, Hawai'i Kai Towne Center and Pepe'ekeo and Hawai'i Kai Drive introducing the sites, passing out information on submitting stories and photos and giving away prizes. We're looking forward to meeting you and telling you about our newest effort to connect with the neighborhoods we serve.