Monday, August 31, 2020

Honolulu vial mislabeling sends 1,000 back for second COVID-19 test, $300 weekly unemployment bonus begins, health inspector fined for ethics violation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 lab testing
About 1,000 Oahu residents told to retake COVID-19 surge test because of mislabeling. Just five days into a federally funded COVID-19 surge testing program on Oahu, about 1,000 people from the Kaneohe testing site have been told they have to retake the test due to a mislabeling error. Star-Advertiser.

Due To Mislabeling, About 1,000 Oahu Residents Told To Re-Test For COVID-19. The tests were part of the two-week federally funded testing surge. Civil Beat.

Due to mislabeling, about 1,000 Oahu residents told to re-test for COVID-19. In the latest coronavirus blunder, officials say about 1,000 people will need to get re-tested because vials weren’t labeled. Hawaii News Now.

About 1,000 surge tests labeled incorrectly, impacted individuals urged to retest. Some  of the tests from the Kaneohe site on Wednesday were not labeled correctly and those who are impacted are being urged to retest. KHON2.

1,000 people need to redo COVID-19 test due to labeling error. Another 500 vials were also incorrectly labeled, but staff managed to match the correct patient information to the vials. KITV4.

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A Frank Conversation With U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz About Hawaii’s ‘Terrible’ Virus Response Effort. Hawaii’s senior senator is extremely troubled by the Ige and Caldwell administrations’ failure to deal effectively with the coronavirus problem in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Contact tracing for the public: Voluntary contact tracing app would allow personal notification. Would a voluntary, free app that lets people know they were within 10-12 feet of someone who later tests positive for coronavirus help stem the rising tide of infections? Could crowd-sourcing — literally putting a tool into the hands of the public — be the solution that government alone can’t seem to reach? West Hawaii Today.

Travelers flying into Hawaii will be required to complete Safe Travels application. The Safe Travels application, starting Tuesday, will become the newest mandatory requirement for travelers flying into Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Feds fund unemployment bonus program. The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Sunday it has approved a $193,933,095 grant to Hawai‘i to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 with an additional $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. Garden Island.

More federal funding is heading to islands to help fulfill unemployment claims. Senator Brian Schatz announces Saturday that the state is getting nearly $200 million in funding from the Lost Wages Assistance Program, which is administered through FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA Approves Lost Wages Grant for Hawai‘i to Support $300 Per Week Unemployment Benefit. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Hawaiʻi to provide $300 per week, on top of their regular unemployment benefit, to those unemployed due to COVID-19. Maui Now.

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County Budgets Stable For Now, But Face Uncertain Future. Local governments in Hawaii have not yet faced the acute budget woes being felt at the state level. That may change if local businesses a forced to close. Hawaii Public Radio.

Auditor: DOE Should Be Releasing More Info About COVID-19 In Schools. The State Auditor also criticized Department of Education officials for not cooperating with its investigation. Civil Beat.

DOE reports 20 new COVID-19 cases. This week, 20 people associated with the state Department of Education has tested positive for COVID-19. The DOE's weekly web update says that includes nine employees, five students, four service providers and two parents contracted the virus. KITV4.

Hawaii’s hospitals are in urgent need of nurses to tackle a surge in COVID-19 cases. With an influx in hospitalizations in Hawaii due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, health care officials have put out an urgent call for more nurses to assist. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Inspector Fined $25,000 For Ethics Violation. A state worker admitted to mixing government work with his second job, the Hawaii State Ethics Commission said. Civil Beat.

DOH nurse consultant hit with $25,000 fine for ethics violation. The Hawaii State Ethics Commission fined Roel Salanga $25,000 dollars after they say he used his position for personal gain. Hawaii News Now.

Guess Who In Hawaii Is Donating To Trump And Biden? More than 600 Hawaii residents have contributed cash to the campaigns of the president and his opponent. Civil Beat.

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Bill opens up Hawai‘i to hemp industry. The signing of House Bill 1819 by Gov. David Ige legalizes the growth, processing and sale of industrial hemp in the state, and for Nalu Botanicals Lab, the first and only toll processing facility in the state, this bill opens up new opportunities and business by the ten-fold. Garden Island.

Pandemic renews calls for marijuana legalization in Hawaii. This week, Hawaii took a step forward in legalizing industrial hemp, something the agricultural committee says would be a big boost to the state's economy. KITV4.

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Will Hawaii’s $1.9 Billion Missile Radar System Get Built? Critics argue the costly system may already be obsolete and will needlessly threaten the environment and cultural sites. Civil Beat.

Wespac Reconsiders Rule That Keeps Longliners From Fishing Near Hawaii’s Shores. The zone was created nearly 30 years ago to ease conflicts with smaller boats that fish closer to shore. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric takes on threat of albizia trees. In 2019, Hawaiian Electric spent about $18.6 million on trimming or removing more than 360,000 trees across its five-island territory. Star-Advertiser.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 30: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. There are now more than 5,700 active cases identified in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports another coronavirus death on Oahu and 200 new cases statewide. Health officials today reported 174 new cases today on Oahu, 22 on Hawaii island, and four in Maui County. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidates log small campaign funding deficits. he top two vote getters in the race reported small deficits in the days leading up to the primary. Hawaii News Now.

Protesters gather in opposition of mayor’s latest stay-at-home order. In an act of defiance against the mayor’s latest stay-at-home order, a large group of people exercised their freedom of speech Saturday in a protest near the grounds of Honolulu Hale. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists Find Larger Fish, Clearer Water During Hanauma Bay Closure. Scientists anticipate the bay’s vacation from vacationers will bring a much-needed boost to its overall health. Civil Beat.

‘It’s as if a bomb went off:’ Waipahu’s illegal dumping problem worsens. Illegal dumping has been a problem in Waipahu for years. But local businesses and environmental activists say the problem has gotten worse during the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Outrage, not a meadow, grows in Royal Kunia subdivision. The condition and use of 132 acres at Royal Kunia once advertised as the spot for a planned golf course has been perturbing much of the roughly 2,000-home community over the past three years, including about 300 residents whose homes border the old golf course site. Star-Advertiser.

Reporter, weekend anchor Lisa Kubota bids aloha to Hawaii News Now. After 20 years in the broadcast journalism industry, Hawaii News Now’s Lisa Kubota is saying aloha to the world of television news. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island


Hawaii Island records its first 2 coronavirus deaths amid outbreak at Hilo veterans home. Hawaii island has had its first two coronavirus-related deaths following an outbreak at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Star-Advertiser.

Two coronavirus-related deaths reported at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Hawaii Island marked its first coronavirus-related deaths Sunday as the number of positive COVID-19 cases on the island climbed to 340. West Hawaii Today.

Two Deaths, 37 COVID-19 Cases Connected To Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home Outbreak. Six are hospitalized at Hilo Medical Center, and 19 are being cared for at the veterans home’s COVID designated area. Big Island Video News.

HMC Reports Two Coronavirus-Related Deaths. Hilo Medical Center reported two coronavirus-related deaths on Sunday afternoon, the first of which was also reported by Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Sunday morning. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island reports two COVID deaths as case numbers surpass Maui County. On Sunday, Hawaii County had more COVID-19 cases than Maui County. As of Sunday, there are 166 active cases on Hawaii Island. KHON2.

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Five arrested following gathering at Kahaluu. Five people were arrested for violating Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamation after Hawaii Police Department officers were dispatched to a report of a more than 20 people gathering at Kahaluu Beach Park. West Hawaii Today.

Police Arrest 5 at Kahalu‘u Beach Park For Violation of COVID-19 Protocol. Hawai‘i County Police on Saturday arrested five individuals for violating COVID-19 protocols as part of a gathering at Kahalu‘u Beach Park in West Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

5 arrested, charged on the Big Island for COVID violations. Not everyone complied and police arrested five people: 53-year-old Gene Tamashiro of Hilo, 48-year-old Stefanie Nolff of Keaau, 65-year-old Diane Ficher of Kailua-Kona, 60-year-old Melody Harris of Kailua-Kona and 53-year-old Michaele Ann Medearis of Holualoa. KHON2.

Maui

More than 5,000 limited quarantine requests. County grants ‘vast majority’ of requests so people can continue to work As of Friday, Maui County officials had received well over 5,000 requests from travelers for a limited quarantine when arriving in the county following interisland travel. Maui News.

Reality series ‘Temptation Island’ to begin filming again on Maui. Maui filming of the reality series “Temptation Island” is back on again after obtaining authorization from Mayor Michael Victorino following a review of the production company’s health security plan and testing protocols. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor green lights reality TV show. ‘Temptation Island’ filming at Andaz allowed beginning Sept. 8. Maui News.

Kauai

Money helps fund Makauwahi Cave Reserve expansion efforts. For the Makauwahi Cave Reserve, nestled on the south coast of Kaua‘i in the Mahaulepu Valley close to Mahaulepu Beach, change has always been constant, even in the pre-COVID era. Garden Island.

Kauai Businesses Are ‘Hanging On By A Thread’ Without Tourists. The alarming number of businesses facing closure in the next six months should be a warning sign to state leaders, says the head of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce. Civil Beat.

Native seabird chicks eaten by single cat. Over the course of three days in a remote area of the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, one cat (photographed on multiple trail cameras) killed at least nine endangered Hawaiian Petrel (‘u‘au) chicks. Garden Island.

Friday, August 28, 2020

Hawaii battles COVID-19 surge, government fights data release, entire H-3 freeway to become testing site, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

state Department of Health
Hawaii coronavirus cases on Aug 27, 2020, state Department of Health
U.S. Surgeon General warns spike will continue as COVID-19 cases climb above 300. Coronavirus infections in Hawaii reached their second-highest daily level Thursday as Oahu began complying with a two-week stay-at home order limiting business and activities on the island. Star-Advertiser.

Number of COVID-19 cases likely to spike again after testing surge, officials warn. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell likened Hawaii’s battle against coronavirus to ’war’ on Thursday, hours after the state Department of Health reported four new COVID-19 deaths statewide ― the most in a single day since the start of the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. Green expects to see 'big surge' at Hawaii hospitals in next two weeks. Green compared the streak to hot spots like New York and Texas and predicted that some hospitals will see a "big surge" in the next two to three weeks. KITV4.

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State Asks Lawyers, Law Students To Help With Unemployment Claims Backlog — Pro Bono. Hawaii labor officials have been struggling to resolve thousands of unemployment claims with disputes over job separation. Civil Beat.

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Distance learning extended for Hawaii public schools, encouraged for private schools. Teachers and families have more clarity today after public schools extended distance learning through Oct. 2 and private schools got more specific guidance on operating during the shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

DOE extends distance learning through 1st quarter. The state Department of Education said Thursday that public schools will be limited to distance learning through the first quarter of the school year, but the union representing the state’s teachers claims that is still not enough to keep educators and students safe. Tribune-Herald.

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New Local Apps Will Help with Contact Tracing. Contact tracing helps fight the spread of COVID-19, but it is time consuming work that has overwhelmed the state Health Department. Two local apps designed to help contact tracers do their job faster and more effectively are in the works to combat this issue. Hawaii Business magazine.

HGEA leader blasting state response to coronavirus. The leader of the Hawaii Government Employees Association is blasting the state Department of Public Safety after a cluster of COVID-19 cases involving both employees and inmates at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority offers top post to John De Fries. Hawaii Tourism Authority today offered its top job to John De Fries, who upon acceptance would become the organization’s first Native Hawaiian chief. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii sees July visitor arrivals plummet 98% from a year ago. Only 22,562 visitors flew to Hawaii in July, which last year was Hawaii’s best tourism month. Star-Advertiser.

Women Were Already Struggling At Work. The Pandemic Is Making It Worse. Women are filing for unemployment and losing their businesses at higher rates than men. Civil Beat.

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Defense Secretary Visits Hawaii For RIMPAC. Mark Esper’s visit to the state was part of a broader tour of the Pacific that includes Guam and Palau in a signal to China. Civil Beat.

Vintage warbirds move to Wheeler Army Airfield for the 75th end-of-WWII aerial parades. Some of the airpower stars of World War II landed at Wheeler Army Airfield on Thursday, coming in from the Waianae Range side to touch down at the historic airport in preparation for three aerial parades in honor of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Historic war planes to fly over Oahu in honor of WWII 75th anniversary. Historic war planes will fly over Oahu this weekend to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. KHON2.

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The Latest: 4 Deaths, 306 New Cases; DOE Extends Learn From Home; Hundreds Line Up For Tests. A day after saying COVID-19 infections appear to be stabilizing, the Hawaii Department of Health today reported one of the state's worse daily counts in the pandemic: 4 deaths and 306 new cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For August 27: 306 New Cases, Four New Deaths. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 27: 306 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii And 4 Deaths. Civil Beat.

4 new COVID-19 deaths in Honolulu as Hawaii sees 306 new cases on 1st day of Oahu lockdown. Department of Health officials reported four new COVID-19 deaths and 306 new coronavirus cases, bringing the statewide totals since the beginning of the pandemic in February to 7,566 cases and 55 fatalities. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Government workers who worked from home before now deemed essential Oahu government workers who were able to work from home during the first lockdown aren’t allowed to this time around. KHON2.

DOH Won’t Give Honolulu The Data It Needs To Detect Coronavirus In Our Sewage. Researchers need access to coronavirus test results by zip code in order to corroborate what they are finding in the island’s wastewater system. Civil Beat.

Payments From Honolulu’s $25 Million Hardship Fund Are Mired In Red Tape. Less than 10% of the money has been handed out in the past three months due to onerous application requirements and concerns about fraud. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces additonal $25 million for COVID-19 small business relief. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced today that the City and County of Honolulu will provide an additional $25 million for the city’s small business grant program started in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Star-Advertiser.

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State to use entire H-3 Freeway as COVID-19 testing site next week. State and city authorities are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to help facilitate surge COVID-19 testing efforts on Oahu, the Department of Transportation announced Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

H-3 freeway eyed as site for COVID-19 surge testing next week. The H-3 freeway could be fully closed between Halawa Interchange and the Halekou Interchange to accommodate a COVID-19 surge testing location on Oahu, the state Department of Transportation reported today. Star-Advertiser.

State will shut down H-3 for two days; freeway will serve as COVID testing site. The Department of Transportation will shut down the H-3 freeway on September 1 and on September 3. KHON2.

H-3 freeway to close for COVID-19 surge testing next week. City and state officials are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to continue COVID-19 surge testing on Oahu. KITV4.

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Candidates for Honolulu mayor land support of major unions ahead of election. Honolulu businessman Keith Amemiya and former television executive Rick Blangiardi each announced endorsements involving major Hawaii labor groups this week as the two prepare to face off in November’s general election. Hawaii News Now.

Details of rail P3 plan remain concealed. Details of negotiations between city officials and potential third-party entities that would help construct and operate the struggling $9.2 billion rail project remain shrouded in mystery, even to members of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, who sought to get some answers Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Judge intervenes in prison housing for alleged crime boss Mike Miske. A Honolulu businessman accused of leading a violent organized crime ring was segregated from other inmates at a detention center beyond the 14-days of quarantine to protect against the spread of COVID-19, until a U.S. judge intervened. Associated Press.

Bill would allow for more group living facilities. A bill allowing certain group living facilities to be exempted from needing to be 1,000 feet from each other was approved tentatively by the City Council Zoning, Planning and Housing Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii investor buys second Waikiki apartment property. The Hawaii investor who recently closed on the purchase of the fee-simple ground lease beneath the leasehold Laniakea Apartments in Waikiki also bought the High Tide Apartments, a small multifamily building next door, last month for $3 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hilo a virus hot spot. State officials confirmed that as of Wednesday there were 94 active coronavirus cases in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized on Hawaii Island could soon test capacity. Since the pandemic began in March, the Big Island has reported a total of 253 cases. This week, though, the island has reported consecutive days of double-digit new cases. Hawaii News Now.

14 COVID-19 Patients Being Treated at HMC. The Hilo Medical Center reports a slight uptick of one COVID-19 patient now hospitalized in its facility bringing the total to 14. Big Island Now.

Planning director sends employees home: Close contacts of two employees test positive for COVID-19. The county Planning Department office in Hilo was closed to the public and operating Thursday with just two officials at the oars after close contacts of two employees tested positive for coronavirus. West Hawaii Today.

Map Tracks All The Places County “Bug Busters” Have Cleaned. The County provided interactive map that tracks the Bug Busters spraying locations. The map marks “essential businesses”, water spigots, bus shelters, and disinfection areas. Big Island Video News.

As jury service questionnaires are appearing in Big Island mailboxes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert D.S. Kim offered assurance the Judiciary is doing everything possible to keep jurors safe. West Hawaii Today.

‘It’s the best we can do’: Courthouse manages influx of District Court cases amid pandemic. A line of people stretched from the entrance of Keahuolu Courthouse to the parking lot as 129 people waited to be checked in for Thursday morning’s Kona District Court calendar. West Hawaii Today.

Fixing Century-Old Breakwater Could Bring Marine Life Back To Hilo Bay. Hawaii County officials want the Army Corps of Engineers to do a new study that could pave the way for improved water quality. Civil Beat.

Maui

Contact tracing on Maui meeting need; more testing likely on horizon. Contact tracers in Maui County are “not overwhelmed” and increased testing may be on the horizon in the battle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, Maui County Health Department officials said Wednesday. Maui News.

Prosecutors oppose release of about half on inmate list. Supreme Court order calls for freeing of inmates due to COVID-19. The Maui County prosecutor’s office is opposing the release of 53 inmates or about half the number eligible for release under a state Supreme Court order issued this week to address jail overcrowding amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui News.

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Pretrial detainee scales fence, escapes from Maui Community Correctional Center. A pretrial detainee from Maui Community Correctional Center escaped from the facility this evening, the state Department of Public Safety reported. Star-Advertiser.

Pre-trial detainee held on theft, drug charges escapes from MCCC. A pre-trial detainee being held on a slew of theft and drug charges escaped from the Maui Community Correctional Center on Thursday night, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

Police searching for prisoner who escaped Maui Community Correction Center Thursday night. Police are asking the public’s help regarding the whereabouts of an escaped male prisoner from Maui Community Correction Center on Aug. 27. KHON2.

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Employee of Maui Police Department Tests Positive for COVID-19. An employee at the Maui Police Department has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a department press release. Maui Now.

Probation officer seeks telework due to COVID-19 risk. A senior probation officer, who was exposed to COVID-19 at work, is hoping the state Judiciary reexamines options for officers to work from home and to limit the number of workers in the Kahului office. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping COVID spread at bay on Kaua‘i. While there have not been any new cases reported on Kaua‘i in about a week, yesterday, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that the most recent case reported on the island had no known travel connection, and has been categorized community spread. Garden Island.

PUC says KIUC can’t cut off electricity for non-payment. In light of continued economic hardship for some members caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the state Public Utilities Commission has ordered the continued suspension of service disconnections for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative members. Garden Island.

Thursday, August 27, 2020

Illegal social gatherings cause COVID-19 spikes, 11% of those tested are positive, state auditor blocked from gathering data, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hundreds gather July 26 in Hilo for memorial in defiance of social gathering prohibitions From YouTube
Hawaii says 11% of people taking COVID-19 test are positive. More than 10% of people tested for COVID-19 in Hawaii have been found to have the disease in the past 24 hours, new data showed Wednesday, underscoring that coronavirus was becoming more widespread in the community. Associated Press.

Latest COVID-19 positivity rate reported puts Hawaii ‘in the red,’ surgeon general says. The percentage of positive COVID-19 test results reported by the state Health Department on Wednesday was among the highest levels seen in Hawaii so far during the pandemic, a number high enough that it caught the eye of the visiting U.S. surgeon general. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii hospitals urgently seeking nurses, recent nursing school graduates. Hospitals in Hawaii, primarily in Oahu and Maui, are urgently seeking nurses including recently nursing graduates to assist due to the influx of hospitalizations because of the COVID-19 outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

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Even The Auditor Can’t Get Contact Tracing Info From Hawaii DOH. The State Auditor says it got no cooperation when it tried to get to the bottom of the Health Department’s methods for identifying how COVID-19 spreads. Civil Beat.

Auditor met with ‘inexcusable’ lack of cooperation in examining contact tracing program. Some state agencies are being accused of stonewalling auditors who were trying to improve the Department of Health’s contact tracing program. Hawaii News Now.

State auditor releases report on contact tracing efforts. "Instead of cooperation and assistance, we encountered barriers, delays," writes State Auditor Leslie Kondo. KITV4.

AG Won’t Release Information On COVID-19 Outbreak At Hawaii Jail. The attorney general told state lawmakers they cannot repeat what was told to them in a private briefing with public officials. Civil Beat.

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As RIMPAC Blasts Off During Pandemic, Commander Reassures Hawaiʻi. The 27th Rim of the Pacific military exercise, RIMPAC 2020, is now being held at sea around the Hawaiian Islands. Ten nations, 22 ships, 1 submarine, and more than 5,300 personnel are participating in the event from August 17 to August 31. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 26: 277 New Cases In Hawaii And 2 Deaths. State officials said the rising number of COVID-19 cases on Maui and the Big Island is concerning. Civil Beat.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates For August 26: Two New Deaths, 93 Active Cases On Big Island. The Hawaiʻi Department of Health announced 277 newly reported cases of COVID-19 statewide as of noon on Wednesday, and added two more deaths to the coronavirus toll. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Surgeon general urges patience as free testing overwhelms Oahu sites. Thousands of vehicles and their passengers overwhelmed Kaneohe District Park and Leeward Community College as the first day of two scheduled weeks of free COVID-19 testing on Oahu began on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands Turn Out For Free COVID-19 Tests On Oahu. Anyone on the island can get tested — even if they don’t have symptoms — as part of a new effort to halt the spread of the virus. Civil Beat.

Turnout for city’s mass testing program starts strong, but problems already reported. Turnout on the first day of the city’s new mass COVID-19 testing initiative has been strong, Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Wednesday ― but not without some logistical issues that resulted in people being turned away from one testing site. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 5,000 sign up for COVID-19 'surge testing' on O'ahu, a national record. Starting on Wednesday, the federal government is sponsoring free COVID-19 "surge testing"-- and the goal is to test 60,000 people over the next two weeks. KITV4.

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Honolulu Is Taking Contact Tracing Into Its Own Hands. Mayor Kirk Caldwell says he doesn’t want to wait any longer for the state to hire more contact tracers. Civil Beat.

Hundreds of virus contact tracers to be hired on Oahu. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday the city plans to hire between 250 and 500 coronavirus contact tracers to work in coordination with the state on a “more aggressive” approach to tracking the path of the virus. Star-Advertiser.

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Oahu lockdown order in place following a bit of drama. Oahu’s 14-day lockdown on business and other activities starts today in a move that aims to slow down the island’s relentless streak of triple-digit daily coronavirus infections. Star-Advertiser.

Stay-at-home order goes into effect for Oahu in bid to control spread of COVID-19. A stay-at-home order for Oahu is in effect Thursday as part of dramatic action to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Uncertainty and anxiety follow Oahu’s latest stay-at-home mandate. It was a 30-hour roller coaster ride for thousands of Oahu private school students, parents, teachers and administrators this week as they tried to figure out how Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s latest “Stay At Home / Work From Home” emergency order was going to affect them. Star-Advertiser.

‘It’s just crazy’: Customers flock to businesses before two-week shutdown. Non-essential businesses on Oahu like gyms, hair and nail salons, theaters and dine-in at restaurants must close by Thursday, Aug. 27 for at least two weeks. KHON2.

Grief And Desperate Hope As Small Businesses Brace For Second Shutdown. On the last day before many workers lose their jobs — again — they struggle to understand and cope with what the loss will mean this time. Civil Beat.

Oahu vacation rental owners feeling pain of shutdown. Oahu still has the toughest coronavirus-related vacation rental restrictions of any island, but that didn’t stop owners and suppliers from fetching the highest — albeit still low— July occupancy rate statewide. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

County to get $30M more for lava recovery. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development on Wednesday announced that it would send the county $30.6 million in federal disaster relief funding, divided between two broad programs. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County To Receive Another $30.6 Million From Feds After Kilauea Eruption. Hawai‘i County will receive $30.6 million in new federal disaster relief funding following the 2018 eruption of Kīlauea volcano. Big Island Video News.

Water Board mulls double-digit rate hike. The Board of Water Supply on Tuesday voted to move forward with a proposed 13% water rate increase as the Department of Water Supply operates in the red. West Hawaii Today.

30 HCCC Pretrial Misdemeanor Inmates to be Released. First Deputy Prosecutor Dale Ross said the Hawai‘i County Office of the Prosecuting Attorney is concerned about approximately 11 individuals in this expedited release who are in the process of a mental evaluation. Big Island Now.

Big Island Grapples with Surge in COVID-19 Cases. Hawaiʻi County is seeing a spike in COVID-19 cases on the Hilo side of the Big Island. State health authorities say its community spread and that testing and contact tracing are aggressively being pursued. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui


289-unit luxury Wailea community planned. Site is located within a mile of two other projects. Maui News.

Prosecutors on deadline to review jail releases. Some MCCC inmates eligible for release amid pandemic. Maui News.

Island Investors Help to Save Koholā Brewery on Maui, Reopening Planned. In a time of shut downs, canceled events and struggling business, there is a bright spot in Lahaina where investors are helping to keep Maui’s Koholā Brewery afloat. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami extends COVID-19 emergency. On Tuesday, Mayor Derek S. K. Kawakami signed the fourth supplementary emergency proclamation for the County of Kaua‘i, in order to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Kaua‘i from the potential spread of the novel coronavirus. Garden Island.

Keeping COVID spread at bay on Kaua‘i. While there have not been any new cases reported on Kaua‘i in about a week, yesterday, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that the most recent case reported on the island had no known travel connection, and has been categorized community spread. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Red Cross in search of new volunteers. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kaua’i branch of the American Red Cross has experienced a shortage of volunteers. Garden Island.

Wednesday, August 26, 2020

Feds step in to assist, U.S. Surgeon General visits Hawaii as Oahu returns to COVID-19 stay-at-home lockdown, ambulances turned away from overburdened hospitals, Ige applies for $300 weekly unemployment bonus, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams at Aug. 25, 2020, press conference, from Honolulu city video
U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams was on Oʻahu Tuesday to explain how the surge testing process will be carried out. As the State of Hawaiʻi prepares for the impacts of the increase in COVID-19 cases on Oʻahu, the federal government – represented by the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams, who is now in Honolulu – is stepping in to help. Big Island Video News.

Federal program relaxes rules for free COVID-19 testing, available for 2 weeks. The U.S. Surgeon General said asymptomatic people can get tested over the next two weeks without a doctor's note, symptoms or underlying health conditions. The federal "surge testing program" is a partnership with the state and City and County of Honolulu. KITV4.

Free COVID-19 testing being offered on Oahu. The surge tests will be provided to participants beginning today through the U.S. government’s Coronavirus Task Force. Star-Advertiser.

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Governor issues another sweeping ‘stay-at-home’ order on Oahu for 2 weeks. The governor has approved another sweeping “stay-at-home” order for Oahu starting Thursday in a dramatic bid to rein in a surge of new COVID-19 cases. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige approves stay-at-home, work-from-home order. Governor David Ige has approved a stay-at-home, work-from-home order for the island of Oahu. KHON2.

Oahu Goes Back To Stay-At-Home Order While Virus Testing Ramps Up. The federal government is providing up to 5,000 free COVID-19 tests per day for the next two weeks. Civil Beat.

O'ahu issued stay-at-home order for at least two weeks. Exactly five months after issuing a stay-at-home order for the state, Tuesday, a stay-at-home order was issued for O'ahu. KITV4.

Oahu heading back under lockdown as COVID-19 cases continue to mount in Hawaii. After more than four weeks of consistent triple-digit daily coronavirus counts, the hammer finally came down on Oahu as Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced a stay-at-home order starting 12:01 a.m. Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Retailers, gyms, salons will all have to close under city’s new ‘stay-at-home’ order. Retailers, gyms, salons and other “non-essential” businesses on Oahu will be forced to close their doors Thursday for two weeks under a new “stay-at-home” order. The broad mandate is meant to quickly bring down the number of new COVID-19 infections on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

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As hospitalizations soar, ‘unprecedented’ number of ERs are turning ambulances away. The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Hawaii has nearly quadrupled since Aug. 1, leaving some Oahu hospitals so overwhelmed they’re turning ambulances away. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii to apply for $300 federal unemployment weekly benefit program. Hawaii will apply for the Lost Wages Assistance Program, a $300 weekly benefit for unemployed workers that will replace the $600-per-week federal assistance that ended in July. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige Applies for New Unemployment Bonus Program, Seeks to Offer $300 Per Week to Eligible Applicants.  Hawaiʻi will apply to participate in a new unemployment insurance plus up program called the Lost Wages Assistance or the LWA Program. Maui Now.

As state seeks additional $300 for unemployed, thousands of claims still left unprocessed. Gov. David Ige announced Tuesday that the state will apply for federal aid that provides an extra $300 a week for the unemployed. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiʻi to Apply for New Unemployment Bonus Program. Hawaiʻi will apply to participate in new unemployment insurance plus up program called the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) Program, state officials announced Tuesday afternoon. Big Island Now.

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Unions Call For Removal Of Hawaii Prison Chief Espinda. United Public Workers, HGEA say the state is not doing enough to get COVID-19 under control at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Civil Beat.

Union calls for removal of Department of Public Safety director over COVID-19 surge at OCCC. The United Public Workers union has called for the immediate removal for Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda, citing “months of inaction by the State” to stop the spread of COVID-19 at Oahu Community Correctional Center. Star-Advertiser.

Pressure mounts for a change of leadership at the Department of Public Safety. In a hopeful sign Tuesday, the Department of Public Safety said there were no new cases of COVID-19 reported among inmates at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Unions demand replacement of director of public safety as five correctional center workers test positive for coronavirus. The Department of Public Safety confirms five new cases of the coronavirus for community correctional center workers. KHON2.

Critics call for changes and firing at Public Safety Dept. The union representing prison guards and workers at OCCC calls for Hawaii's Public Safety Director to be fired. KITV4.

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Hawaii reports 215 new coronavirus cases, pushing statewide total just shy of 7,000. The state saw 215 new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, pushing the statewide total for cases since the pandemic began to 6,984. Hawaii News Now.

Coronavirus: 215 new cases brings state total to 6,984. The Department of Health reported 215 new cases of COVID-19 on Aug. 25 for the state: 201 cases are from Honolulu County, 11 cases are from Hawaii County and 3 cases are from Maui County. KHON2.

215 new coronavirus cases as Hawaii’s total tally climbs to 6,984. Hawaii health officials today reported 215 new coronavirus cases in Hawaii, with 52% attributed to community spread, as the statewide total since the start of the pandemic climbed to 6,984. Star-Advertiser.

How An EPA Decision On Trash Could Lead To Cleaner Beaches Across Hawaii. The EPA’s ruling on two beaches overwhelmed by marine debris could eventually force the state to take action elsewhere. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City funds an additional 130 hotel rooms for those seeking COVID-19 quarantine. An additional 130 hotel rooms on Oahu will soon be available to those who need to quarantine away from their families. Hawaii News Now.

Waikiki hotels agree to house those under quarantine. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and the state Department of Health announced Tuesday that they have retained an entire Waikiki hotel as a COVID-19 quarantine and isolation center — more than doubling the rooms in the district that are available for this purpose. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of virus contact tracers to be hired on Oahu. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday the city plans to hire between 250 and 500 coronavirus contact tracers to work in coordination with the state on a “more aggressive” approach to tracking the path of the virus. Star-Advertiser.

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TheBus to implement ‘No Mask, No Ride’ policy starting Sept. 1. Transportation officials say a rider’s nose and mouth must be covered for the entire time while on city buses, and they are no longer granting medical exemptions. Hawaii News Now.

TheBus, Handi-Van to require masks starting Sept. 1. Starting Sept. 1, all riders of TheBus and The Handi-Van will be required to wear a mask or face covering while riding, the City and County of Honolulu announced today. Star-Advertiser.

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HSTA has a gripe over order that deepens divide between public, private schools. The order requires private schools to close their campuses to in-person learning, and students must switch to online distance learning. But at the governor’s request, public schools along with the University of Hawaii will remain open for the limited number of students doing in-person learning. Hawaii News Now.

Three arrested for violating quarantine: Maryland visitor, Aiea resident and Honolulu resident. Three people have been arrested for violating the state’s mandatory 14-day quarantine. KHON2.

Concerned resident alleges BOE ignored public input on Kahuku turbines built near schools. Another battle tied to the controversial Na Pua Makani turbines in Kahuku- one resident has filed a lawsuit against the Board of Education. KITV4.

In effort to stay afloat, Honolulu Cookie Company to lay off over 70 workers. Some 71 employees with the Honolulu Cookie Company are being laid off as a result of financial hardship for the business. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kim: Stay-at-home order not needed; Caldwell announces more restrictions on Oahu. Mayor Harry Kim said the increase in coronavirus cases on Hawaii Island over the past few weeks doesn’t justify what he called a “shutdown” like the one mandated by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell for Oahu. Tribune-Herald.

COVID-19 work stoppage cost $3.4M: Most employees back at work after several months of paid leave. Hawaii County’s first tumultuous months of the COVID-19 lockdown resulted in an estimated 141,850 lost hours of work from county employees, at a cost of $3.4 million in salaries. West Hawaii Today.

Virus strikes vets home; two Hilo medical clinics also have COVID-19 cases. Three employees and seven residents at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home have tested positive for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

HCCC to Release Pretrial Misdemeanor Prisoners. Pretrial detainees at Hawai‘i Community Correctional Facility charged with petty misdemeanor or misdemeanor offenses will be released by Wednesday in an effort to avoid a COVID-19 outbreak. Big Island Now.

Quarantines, online classes kick off UH-Hilo school year. The University of Hawaii at Hilo has so far helped 163 students comply with state quarantine requirements by providing space on campus or at the Grand Naniloa Resort. Tribune-Herald.

Maui


Schools still face hurdles going online. Internet connections an issue; some lack computers. Maui County public schools rolled into its second week of school Monday with students waiting for laptops and hot spot internet connectivity devices and some schools, especially in rural areas, facing connectivity issues. Maui News.

20 at Roselani Place test positive. Hospital outbreak grows to 31 patients, 35 staff. Eight residents and 12 staff have tested positive for COVID-19 at a senior independent and assisted living community that’s largely escaped the pandemic until now. Maui News.

20 COVID-19 Cases Confirmed at Roselani Place, Assisted Living Community on Maui. Roselani Place, an assisted living community on Maui has identified 20 COVID-19 positive cases as of Monday. Maui Now.

Kauai

How the county chose CARES Act grant recipients. Using specialized Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds, the county recently awarded 44 proposals for projects ranging from direct assistance to jobs to getting food out to the community. Garden Island.

There is still time to fill out the 2020 Census. Donald Bendz, a spokesperson of the U.S. Census Bureau, said more households on Kaua‘i have responded to the 2020 Census than in 2010. Garden Island.

Preventing COVID at KCCC. Kaua‘i County Prosecuting Attorney Justin Kollar said the county is taking a conscientious approach to the spread of COVID-19 in local correctional facilities. Garden Island.

Tuesday, August 25, 2020

Hawaii hospitals in crisis, Health Department releases COVID-19 age, gender, racial data, House Speaker Saiki fined by Ethics Commission, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Photo by Javier Matheu on Unsplash
Hospital scene. Photo by Javier Matheu on Unsplash
Hawaii Asks Feds To Send More Nurses To Help With The Pandemic. Local hospitals still have enough space to expand and respond to an increase in coronavirus patients but need more specialized nursing staff. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Hospitals Appeal To FEMA To Help Staff Beds, Move Patients To Tripler. The state’s hospital industry says it’s facing a crisis and has appealed to the federal government to help it staff critically needed beds. Hawaii has reached 100% hospital capacity -- not for lack of space but because it doesn’t have enough personnel. Hawaii Public Radio.

With scores of Hawaii health care workers sidelined by COVID-19, state seeks mainland help. Hawaii’s health care workers have been hit hard by a surge in COVID-19 cases, with upwards of 100 in quarantine after testing positive for the virus or being exposed. Hawaii News Now.

State needs more than 200 nurses to handle hospital surge. Health officials say we have already reached capacity with staffing at our hospitals, and are hoping to get some help from the military. KHON2.

Healthcare insiders expect hospitals to be at full capacity by the end of this week. Community Physician Dr. James Island worked inside several of them over the weekend he shared with us first hand what he saw on Monday. KITV4.

Hospital space at a premium, some COVID-19 patients are now sharing rooms. Nurses on the front lines of the pandemic say as hospitals fill up with COVID-19 patients, at least one hospital is having some coronavirus patients share rooms. Hawaii News Now.

Ambulance Services Could Be On The Chopping Block Throughout Hawaii. The state Department of Health asked service providers to prepare for cuts up to 20% in anticipation of budget cuts related to the coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.

EMS worries potential budget cuts will slash their crucial operations. Hawaii’s Emergency Medical Services officials are bracing for possible budget cuts of up to 20 percent — at a time when demand for their services is soaring due to the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

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New data shows young adults have the highest number of COVID-19 diagnoses in Hawaii. Older adults may be the most vulnerable to COVID-19, but 20- and 30-somethings are the ones driving the disease in Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Pacific Islanders Have The Highest COVID-19 Death Rate In Hawaii. Filipinos in Hawaii have the next-highest death rate, composing 24% of deaths compared with 16% of the population. Civil Beat.

New DOH graphs breakdown cases by age, gender and race. The Department of Health is now releasing more data surrounding COVID infections in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

New data from health department reveals impacts of coronavirus on community. The Department of Health has released new data on COVID-19 cases reported since March, and it shows how the virus has been spread across age, gender and ethnicity. KHON2.

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Hawaii airports getting facial imaging technology by end of the year. State officials hope to have facial imaging technology in place at Hawaii’s airports by the end of the year to better identify passengers who arrive with elevated temperatures so they can be offered further screening for COVID-19 before they potentially fan out into the community. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii behind in launching new web app that collects traveler information. The state is behind in launching a new version of a web application, Hawaii Safe Travels, to collect traveler information needed to enforce public safety measures related to the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

New Local Apps Will Help with Contact Tracing. Contact tracing helps fight the spread of COVID-19, but it is time consuming work that has overwhelmed the state Health Department. Two local apps designed to help contact tracers do their job faster and more effectively are in the works to combat this issue. Hawaii Business magazine.

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2 new COVID-19 deaths and 169 new coronavirus cases as Hawaii’s total climbs to 6,769. Hawaii Department of Health officials reported two new COVID-19 deaths on Oahu and 169 new coronavirus cases today, bringing the statewide totals to 6,769 infections and 49 coronvirus-related fatalities since the start of the pandemic in the islands in late February. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 24: 169 New Cases In Hawaii And 2 Deaths. Two more deaths on Oahu takes the state COVID-19 death toll to 49. Civil Beat.

DOH Reports 169 New COVID-19 Cases, 2 Deaths. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reported 169 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, bringing the statewide total to 6,769 since DOH began tracking the pandemic in late February. Big Island Now.

The Faces Of Hawaii's COVID-19 Dead. The state reports people who die only as numbers in the daily toll of the pandemic. We'll introduce you to three who died.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii residents happy to join fight against COVID-19 in vaccine clinical trial. A global study for a vaccine is taking place here in the islands, and is looking for participants. KHON2.

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Ethics Commission Fines Speaker Saiki, Rep. DeCoite. Both lawmakers will pay the state $250 for “likely” violation of the Fair Treatment Law. Civil Beat.

Hawaii political consultant charged in covert lobbying of Trump officials. Hawaii political consultant and fundraiser Nickie Lum Davis has been charged in an illicit lobbying effort to get the Trump administration to drop an investigation into the multi-billion-dollar looting of a Malaysian state investment fund, and to arrange for the return of a Chinese dissident living in the U.S. Associated Press.

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Hawaii Schools Dump Distance Learning Program Over ‘Racist’ Content. The Department of Education approved Acellus Learning Accelerator as an option for students learning remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Civil Beat.

Parents raise concern over online teaching program used by DOE. People against it want the DOE to remove it from its curriculum. KITV4.

3 Hawaii schools cancel use of DOE-approved platform for online learning. The number of Hawaii schools who have immediately suspended use of a Department of Education-approved platform for online learning is now at three. Hawaii News Now.

Classes resume at all ten University of Hawai'i campuses. It was back to class for students at all ten University of Hawaii campuses on Monday. KITV4.

Oahu

Some released OCCC inmates quarantining at Oahu hotels. Some inmates being released from Oahu Community Correctional Center are being isolated or quarantined at Honolulu hotels if they have either tested positive for COVID-19, are awaiting test results or have been in contact with someone testing positive, joining other local residents in similar situations, the Department of Health confirmed Monday. Star-Advertiser.

DOH Official: Some Inmates Who Were Released Caused ‘Spillover’ Infections. State officials say it’s tough to find safe places for ex-inmates to spend their 14-day post-release isolation. Civil Beat.

Alm To Kau: Ask Me For A Job When I’m Elected Prosecutor. The candidates for Honolulu prosecutor sparred in a debate on Monday. Civil Beat.

Confusion continues regarding gathering restrictions on Oahu. New gathering restrictions on coronavirus-prone Oahu were intended to reduce the daily surge of three-digit cases in the state. Star-Advertiser.

State to name priority developers for New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District. The state said it will announce the the names of the three priority-listed developer-led teams for the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District after it wraps up loose ends left by the deferral of Senate Bill 2940. Star-Advertiser.

Warbird aerial parades provide a bit of horsepower for coronavirus-diminished 75th end-of-WWII event. A cavalcade of World War II flying history will land at Wheeler Army Airfield from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday in preparation for three aerial parade flyovers commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of the war, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

Jury trials in U.S. District Court on hold until mid-October. The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in partial closure of Hawaii’s U.S. District Courts. On Monday, it was announced that all jury trials are now on hold until at least Oct. 13. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Surge in East Hawaii cases leads to greater enforcement. The county’s Civil Defense chief said Monday he and his staff are “hearing that people are almost rebelling” against emergency measures put in place to stop the spread of the coronavirus. Tribune-Herald.

HMC has 10 virus patients. Amid growing numbers of COVID-19 cases in East Hawaii, Hilo Medical Center as of Monday had 10 patients admitted with the virus. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo restaurants curtail services in response to COVID-19 spike. Some Hilo restaurants are temporarily closing or reverting back to takeout service only because of a surge in COVID-19 cases in East Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

State Seeks Lessees For Two Banyan Drive Area Properties. Lessees are being sought for long-term lease agreements for the former Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel and the former Country Club Condominium Hotel in the Banyan Drive area of Hilo. Big Island Now.

DLNR seeking applicants to take over leases of 2 troubled Hilo hotels. The Department of Land and Natural Resources is in search of applicants to take over the leases of Uncle Billy’s Hilo Bay Hotel and the former Country Club Condominium Hotel. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Mayor Needs Another Day or Two to Weigh Potential Reinstatement of Restrictions. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he needs another day or two to make any decisions on whether or not to reinstate previous restrictions aimed at helping to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Maui Now.

25 COVID patients being treated at Maui Memorial; 14 additional workers test positive. Maui Health is caring for 25 COVID-positive patients, according to an update Monday. Hawaii News Now.

Maui hotel revenues, occupancy still lowest in state. Numbers improve from June to July but still far below normal rates. Maui News.

Maui concrete business merges with Hilo company. Longtime owners of Miyake Concrete Accessories to retire. Maui News.

Maui’s Miyake Concrete Accessories, Inc. Merges with Hilo’s HPM Building Supply. Maui family-owned Miyake Concrete Accessories, Inc. is merging with Hilo family-founded, fifth generation HPM Building Supply. Maui Now.

Hilo’s HPM Building Supply Merges With Maui-based Miyake Concrete. The fifth generation family founded HPM is now in 13 locations across the State of Hawaiʻi, with five on Maui. Big Island Video News.

Kauai

Hundreds apply for small business grant. The Small Business Boost Grant offers a one-time $7,500 grant to businesses financially impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The money comes from federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act money given to the county from the state. Garden Island.

Waimea pool closed until further notice. The Waimea swimming pool is closed until further notice, due to mechanical problems. Garden Island.

Monday, August 24, 2020

Pentagon guards military COVID-19 numbers, visiting vets grounded, coronavirus threatens hospital capacity, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
HMAS Stuart, Royal Australian Navy, cruises Hawaii shore Aug. 22, 2020, ©2020 All Hawaii News
Military COVID-19 Rates Are Public in Guam, Japan And Korea. Why Not In Hawaii?. Commanders initially released COVID-19 cases numbers on Hawaii bases until the Pentagon ordered them to stop. The state Department of Health as agreed to keep numbers secret, too. Civil Beat.

Visiting vets grounded as program commemorating end of WWII is slashed due to virus. Coy Pfaff’s graceful 1943 PBY Catalina has been flying for at least the past three days from Honolulu airport to Kaneohe Bay, taking military, VIPs and media out to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the flying boat in conjunction with the upcoming 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Star-Advertiser.

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Lt. Gov. Green repeats call for stronger mandates as Hawaii sees another day with 200-plus cases. Sunday was the fifth straight day that Hawaii saw more than 200 new COVID-19 cases. It’s an alarming situation — and one that Lt. Gov. Josh Green says is unsustainable. Hawaii News Now.

Officials say continuing triple-digit rise in COVID-19 cases will put a strain on hospitals. Hawaii Department of Health officials reported 248 new coronavirus cases Sunday, adding to a surge of COVID-19 cases that health officials warn is putting a strain on the health care system, especially hospitals. Star-Advertiser.

Health officials reveal Oahu hospitals are becoming full. As of Sunday, there were 253 COVID-19 patients in the hospital and healthcare workers and doctors are warning hospitals on Oahu could be at maximum capacity by the end of the week. KHON2.

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IHS worker is the latest fatality as Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases climb by 284. Hawaii’s latest reported death from COVID-19 was a 36-year-old front-line worker at the Institute for Human Services who helped the homeless and others in need. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 cluster at Institute for Human Services hits 66% of those exposed. The COVID-19 outbreak at the Institute for Human Services, which took the life of a staff member on Friday, also has resulted in positive tests for about 66% of the clients who were exposed at the men’s shelter. Star-Advertiser.


Family remembers Willie Reopoamo Talamoa who passed away from coronavirus. Willie Reopoamo Talamoa worked at Institute for Human Services in Iwilei. KHON2.

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$10M in federal relief money to go to nontourism jobs in Hawaii. A section within Senate Bill 126, which breaks down how the relief money will be spent, allocates $10 million for “retraining and workforce development programs” to help Hawaii transition from its tourism-heavy economy. Star-Advertiser.

The Tremendous Cost Of Feeding The Hungry In Hawaii. The Hawaii Foodbank is shutting down expensive large distribution events as costs have climbed from $400,000 in 2019 to $5.1 million so far during the pandemic. Civil Beat.

As public schools move fully online, DOE says some students don’t have needed equipment. Full distance learning will begin for most public schools Monday. But officials admit some students won’t have the equipment they need to connect to online classrooms. Hawaii News Now.

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Governor considers layoffs, program cuts to address budget crisis. Gov. David Ige is asking department heads to plan for budget cuts of up to 20% by identifying programs and employees that can be eliminated. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige declines to address open-records request. Hawaii Gov. David Ige’s office declined to provide copies of communications about the coronavirus that his staff exchanged with the state Department of Health, the tourism industry and other organizations. Associated Press.

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Since April, Hawaii nonprofit has sent 200 quarantine violators home. A local nonprofit says it has helped send more than 200 quarantine violators back home since April. Through the COVID-19 Flight Assistance Program, the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii has arranged flights for people who come to the islands and don’t follow the rules. Hawaii News Now.

Teen vaping on the rise: Nearly half of high schoolers have tried e-cigarettes. Nearly half of Hawaii high school students and a third of middle school students have tried e-cigarettes, data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows. West Hawaii Today.

Vaping rises to alarming rates among Hawaii youth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that 48.3% of Hawaii's high school students and 30.6% of middle school students have tried e-cigarettes. KITV4.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 23: 248 New Cases In Hawaii. There have been 6,600 cases confirmed in Hawaii since the start of the pandemic. Civil Beat.

The Latest: 248 New Cases Today; IHS Worker Dies Of COVID-19. The Hawaii Department of Health reported 248 new COVID-19 cases today. That brings the state's total to 6,600 cases. Total deaths remain at 47. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH Reports 248 New COVID-19 Cases Sunday. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reported 248 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, bringing the statewide total to 6,600 since DOH began tracking the pandemic in late February. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Beaches, Parks, Trails Closed? Honolulu Mayor’s COVID-19 Rules Defy Science, Experts Say. Epidemiologists say keeping beaches, parks and hiking trails shut down without justification could backfire, driving people indoors and increasing distrust in government at a critical time. Civil Beat.

2 coronavirus cases reported at UH-Manoa as campus begins fall semester. As the University of Hawaii at Manoa gets ready to start the fall semester Monday, two more coronavirus cases have been reported on campus. Hawaii News Now.

Minor at Kapolei juvenile detention center tests positive for COVID-19. A minor recently admitted to the Hale Hoomalu Juvenile Detention Facility in Kapolei has tested positive for COVID-19, officials said Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Kim expresses doubts about ‘bubble’ resorts. While the mayors of Maui and Kauai discussed a “bubble” policy to reduce quarantine requirements, Hawaii County will for now pursue other options. Tribune-Herald.

Leeward Planning Commission gives OK to airport hotel proposal. A new land use designation paving the way for a hotel to be built at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport was passed unanimously Thursday by the Leeward Planning Commission and now makes its way to the County Council. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Airport screener: ‘You can kind of tell’ who plans to skirt rules. Quarantine breakers offer telltale signs right off the airplane. Maui News.

Maui Contact Tracing Includes 24 Health Investigators and 20 National Guard Soldiers. Contact tracing on Maui includes 24 health investigators and 20 Hawaiʻi National Guard soldiers, according to a spokesperson with the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health. Maui Now.

Maui Council Committee to Consider Improvements to Sunshine Law. The Governance, Ethics and Transparency Committee will consider whether to ask the state Legislature to amend the Sunshine Law to allow for remote meetings.  The committee meeting will take place online on Tuesday at 9 a.m. Maui Now.

Island musicians look for creative ways to survive. Virtual concerts, expanding their music while waiting out the coronavirus. Maui News.

Former plantation communities in Hawaii that pivoted to tourism are once again struggling to cope with economic calamity. The dusty sidewalks of Paia are mostly empty these days and there’s parking galore, an eerie sight in the former plantation town that survived the demise of the sugar industry by transforming into a tourism magnet trading on its rural heritage and charm. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

Contact tracers prepare for a surge. State Department of Health Kaua’i District Health Officer Dr. Janet Berreman said her office is hiring a few more University of Hawai‘i-trained contact tracers. Garden Island.

Council holds another session for stakeholders. Stakeholders, including developers and affordable-housing advocates, weighed in on what they like and don’t like about the county’s housing policy, and proposals on improving Ordinance 860. Garden Island.

Luxury Camping At $500 A Night On Kauai? A Glamping Resort Could Be Coming Soon. Three holes at the former Princeville Resort Woods golf course are being eyed by the developer for about 50 tent structures under a proposal quietly being discussed. Civil Beat.