Showing posts with label Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

Masks, physical distancing instituted as Legislature goes back into session, Lt. Gov. Green pushes to open restaurants and salons May 25, Gen. Hara warns of possible riots, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

PC: Hawaii House Democrats
Hawaii Legislature opens May 11, 2020 PC:Hawaii House Democrats
Lawmakers return to Capitol to make budget fixes and avoid furloughs. Masked state lawmakers gathered at the Capitol on Monday, returning to work in floor sessions where they sat 6 feet away from one another in a striking display of caution that illustrates how much has changed with the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the state and the country. Star-Advertiser.

Back In Session: Hawaii Lawmakers Grapple With A Billion-Dollar Budget Hole. Gov. David Ige is not on board with much of the Legislature’s fiscal plan including how to spend federal bailout money and public worker pay cuts. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers back to work on budget bills. The state legislative is back in session and lawmakers focus on financial bills during this tough economic time. KITV4.

Lawmakers outline plans to make up state’s budget shortfall. Lawmakers said Monday they plan to plug a projected $1 billion hole in the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year by using money from the rainy day fund, reducing vacancies in state bureaucracies and issuing bonds. Associated Press

‘Clerical error’ overstated state’s coronavirus-related budget shortfall — but by how much? During a press conference on Monday, Governor David Ige acknowledged his budget staff made a financial miscalculation before he proposed 20% pay cuts for all state workers several weeks ago. Hawaii News Now.

House Speaker Saiki Remarks At Reconvening Legislature. Over the coming weeks, Speaker Saiki said, lawmakers will work to avoid drastic budget cuts and disruption in basic government services. Big Island Video News.

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Gov. David Ige considers photographing incoming Hawaii visitors to improve quarantine compliance. An effort to improve screening of non-residents arriving at Hawaii airports may include photographing them, under a plan that’s being explored by state officials, Gov. David Ige said. Star-Advertiser.


Green Announces ‘Travel With Aloha’ Program. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green on Monday announced his “Travel With Aloha” initiative, which proposes all those who want to travel to Hawai‘i receive a rapid turnaround test for COVID-19. If they test negative, they could be exempted from the stipulations of the mandatory, 14-day travel quarantine. Big Island Now.

Hawaiian Airlines blocks middle seats and requires face coverings amid pandemic. Airlines are starting to change how passengers board and sit inside planes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian Airlines is flying some of its larger parked jets on neighbor island flights to allow for physical distancing. KHON2.

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Ige says Hawaii ‘flattening curve’ but must remain vigilant. Gov. David Ige on Monday afternoon lauded Hawaii for continuing to “flatten the curve” but warned that social distancing must continue to stay on track so that the state can slowly reopen its economy. Star-Advertiser.

Coronavirus recovery a ‘marathon,’ not a sprint, Gov. Ige says. For 23 consecutive days, fewer than six new cases of the novel coronavirus have been reported statewide. But in light of the downward trend, as businesses across the state either reopen or prepare to do so, Gov. David Ige is cautioning Hawaii residents to move forward carefully. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. eyes May 25 for ‘medium risk businesses’ to reopen. With new cases of the coronavirus few and far between, leaders are getting more specific about what the next phase of reopening looks like. On Monday the Lt. Governor said he believes it’s safe enough to get the the majority of the kamaaina economy back up and running. Things like restaurants, salons and what he calls other medium risk businesses. Hawaii News Now.

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2 coronavirus clusters in Hawaii involved people who went to parties, Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara says. Two clusters of people who became ill with COVID-19 in Hawaii involved parties where people apparently ignored warnings to engage in social distancing and avoid social gatherings, according to Maj. Gen. Kenneth Hara, the incident commander for the state’s coronavirus response. Star-Advertiser.

2 New COVID-19 Cases Confirmed In Hawaii. The state has confirmed 634 COVID-19 cases since the first case of the virus was reported in early March. About 13% of those people have been hospitalized. Civil Beat.

Cases Up 2; Health Dept. Under More Fire; Prosecutor Raises Alarms Over Inmates. Hawaii recorded two new coronavirus cases today. The state health department reported that the count is now at 634 and the deaths stand at 17. Oahu cases are at 410, Maui County at 117, Hawaii Island at 75 and Kauai County at 21. There are 11 cases diagnosed out of state. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Delay in reopening economy could lead to rioting. The head of Hawaii’s coronavirus response team said Monday that further delays in reopening Hawaii’s economy — especially to tourism — could result in rioting. Star-Advertiser.

General Hara Warns Of Civil Unrest. Members of the House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness heard the concerns of the incident commander for the state's coronavirus response. Big Island Video News.

If economic strife continues, Gen. Hara worries of ‘civil unrest’ in Hawaii. Governor Ige's cautious approach to reopening the economy drew harsh warnings Monday from the business and government leaders who are advising him. One of their concerns is the possibility of riots. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige: Civil unrest unlikely. Gov. David Ige said Monday he doesn’t think Hawaii’s current economic crisis in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic will lead to civil unrest. Tribune-Herald.

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Gov. Ige on CARES Act Funding: $175 Million to be Split Among Kaua‘i, Maui and Hawai‘i Counties. Governor David Ige said Maui will split $175 million in federal funds with Kauaʻi and Hawaiʻi counties as part of the CARES Act appropriation for the state. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s Struggling Farms Want The State To Become A Bigger Customer. With local farmers reeling from a drop in demand from hotels and restaurants, advocates hope schools, prisons and hospitals will buy more local produce. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiian Homes Launches Rental Relief Program. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and Aloha United Way today launched the new program for beneficiaries. Big Island Video News.

New program will provide financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries on DHHL wait list. Financial help is on the way for Hawaiians on the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands wait list. KITV4.

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The doors of Hawaii’s libraries are still open online. Although the Hawaii State Public Library System’s 51 branches are closed during, people are still flocking to make use of its myriad online resources. Star-Advertiser.

2020 graduates’ job prospects predicted to be grim. As graduation nears, Hawaii college and high school seniors might face a slim chance of landing a job during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization. Star-Advertiser.

16 New Solar Farms For Hawaii But Utility Won’t Say Where Exactly. The public might have to wait 30 days for details of plans for 16 solar-plus-storage or standalone storage projects on three islands. Civil Beat.

USS Nevada located off of Oahu. The wreck of the Nevada was found about 75 miles southwest of Pearl Harbor in more than 15,400 feet of water. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Invited To Testify On Spending Federal Aid. Residents can share their thoughts about how to spend $387 million. Civil Beat.

New legislation asks for $100 million to help Honolulu’s small businesses. Oahu is getting about $380 million dollars, and now a big push is being made to take a $100 million of that and put it toward small businesses. KHON2.

Pearlridge Center, other retailers begin to detail phased reopening plans.  Reduced hours, rearranged food courts and continued respect for social distancing practices are among the guidelines retailers are setting forth ahead of May 15, the date most such stores will be allowed to reopen on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

International Market Place will reopen on Friday. The center court and grassy lawn areas will remain closed along with drinking fountains. KITV4.

Retailers looking to nab cleaning supplies and sanitizer before reopening. Retailers are preparing to reopen this week, but finding the necessary cleaning supplies and protective gear is becoming a challenge for some. KHON2.

Hawaii Island


Antibody testing begins on the Big Island. Drive-through testing for COVID-19 antibodies, which started last week on the Big Island, is apparently the first of its kind available in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Ample, Highly Accurate Antibody Tests to go Widescale Inside the Month. Antibody testing arrived on Hawai‘i Island for public use over the weekend, and Lieutenant Governor Josh Green said Monday he thinks widescale surveys will be underway across all islands inside of the month. Big Island Now.

Maui

A Maui company making ventilators is now getting international orders. Maui County spent $100,000 to purchase 64 newly manufactured ventilators – all made by Maui engineers. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Police Conduct Walk Through at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center on Day 1 of Phased Reopening. Many retailers remain closed or are in the process of cleaning for a future reopening. Maui Now.

Hotel developer moving forward despite economic downturn. Draft EA released for six-story Hotel Wailuku. Even with travel down and the economy struggling during the coronavirus pandemic, a Wailuku landowner is moving forward with plans to build a 156-room hotel in Wailuku town. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping short-term rentals closed. While restrictions and stay-at-home orders are being lifted around the island, short-term vacation rentals and homestays have been shut down through the end of May. Garden Island.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Statewide stay-at-home ordered for Hawaii, state sees first COVID-19 death, unemployment website bolstered, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

courtesy Governor's Office
HI-EMA Director Ken Hara and Gov. David Ige announce stay-at-home order PC:Governor's Office
Ige Orders Hawaii Residents To Stay Home. Full text of the proclamation here.

Ige announces statewide business, travel restrictions to limit virus’ spread. On the same day that Hawaii reported its first death from the new coronavirus, Gov. David Ige announced hours earlier new statewide restrictions Monday on the movements and activities of Hawaii residents to try to slow the spread of the deadly disease. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Orders Hawaii Residents To Stay At Home. The order follows similar mandates by the mayors of Maui and Honolulu counties — and it’s an action legislative leaders have been pushing for the last few days. Civil Beat.

To face ‘unprecedented’ virus threat, state issues stay-at-home order. The governor on Monday issued a sweeping “stay-at-home" order for the state as part of an aggressive push to stop the spread of coronavirus in the islands. Hawaii News Now.

Governor issues statewide order to stay home. Hawaii residents, except for essential workers are ordered to stay at home. That’s the latest mandate by Governor David Ige. KHON2.

Governor Ige issues statewide stay-at-home order to start Wednesday. Governor David Ige announced that he signed a third supplementary proclamation in response to the COVID-19 outbreak on Monday. KITV4.

Ige orders Hawaii residents statewide to stay at home to combat coronavirus spread. Gov. David Ige ordered all Hawaii residents to stay home starting Wednesday under a statewide shutdown intended to help stop the spread of the coronavirus and extended the deadline for state income tax return filings by three months. Pacific Business News.

Ige: Stay home, Hawaii. The order, which he signed Monday, goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday and remains in effect through April 30. Tribune-Herald.

Stay-at-Home Order in Effect for Hawai‘i Beginning Wednesday. Gov. David Ige announced Monday that the entire state is under a stay-at-home order beginning at 12:01 a.m. March 25 and extending through April 30 due to concerns around the potential spread of COVID-19 throughout the state. Big Island Now.

Governor announces statewide ‘stay at home’ order. Gov. David Ige announced a statewide stay-at-home order starting Wednesday through April 30, following similar orders issued by Maui and Honolulu counties to help slow the spread of the new coronavirus. Maui News.

Governor Ige Announces Statewide Stay-At-Home Order. Governor David Ige this afternoon issued a statewide Stay At Home Order that will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday morning, March 25, and remain in effect until April 30th. Maui Now.

Health care workers: Stay-at-home orders in Hawaii are too lenient, confusing. In an open letter Monday, Hawaii health care providers told the governor and three of Hawaii’s mayors that emergency orders put in place to stop the spread of coronavirus in the islands are confusing ― and too lenient. Hawaii News Now.

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State reports first coronavirus-related death in Hawaii. The state reported its first confirmed coronavirus-related death on Monday night, saying the victim was an Oahu adult with no recent history of travel. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Has 1st COVID-19 Death, State Stay-At-Home Order Announced; Cases Stand at 77. The state Department of Health said Hawaii has recorded its first death from the coronavirus. The Oahu adult with multiple underlying conditions died on March 20. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii health officials report state’s first death from coronavirus. The Hawaii Department of Health tonight announced that an Oahu adult is the state’s first death from the new coronavirus, COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Announces First Death From The COVID-19 Virus. The Hawaii Department of Health announced Monday night that an Oahu adult is the first state resident to die from COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. Civil Beat.

COVID-19 Update: First Death Reported In Hawaii. Monday's dramatic day of government action ended with the chilling report of the state's first coronavirus death. Big Island Video News.

State Reports First COVID-19-Linked Death. An O‘ahu adult who died March 20 is Hawai‘i’s first death from COVID-19, the Hawai’i State Department of Health announced Monday. Maui Now.

Hawaii’s first death from COVID-19. An Oahu adult is Hawaii’s first death from COVID-19, the novel coronavirus. KHON2.

O'ahu adult is Hawaii's first death from COVID-19. Hawaii's first death from COVID-19 is an O'ahu adult. KITV4.

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Hawaii’s unemployment assistance gets a fix. Hawaii’s partially paralyzed unemployment filing system got a technological shot in the arm Monday that should allow a tsunami of laid-off workers to register for benefits immediately. Star-Advertiser.

State creates new webform for filing unemployment claims. The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations established a new webform for filing unemployment claims that is available 24/7. Tribune-Herald.

State Rolls Out New Webform For Unemployment Claims. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations today announced the establishment of a new webform for filing unemployment claims that is available 24/7. Individuals can file claims by using a new online webform and choosing to either file a new claim or continue an existing claim. Maui Now.

After days of stumbles, state fixes system for filing unemployment claims. With tourism all but shut down in Hawaii, hundreds of workers are being laid off and encountering a system for unemployment claims that’s overwhelmed. Hawaii News Now.

State sets up call center to provide assistance for unemployment claimants. The local unemployment offices remain closed to walk-in and in-person services. KITV4.

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Local hospitals asking for medical supply donations. Some hospitals in the state are asking people to donate masks and other medical supplies. KHON2.

Inouye negative for virus, says Senate president arranged testing of asymptomatic senators. There is a scarcity of test kits for COVID-19, locally and nationally, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Hawaii Department of Health guidelines advise that apparently healthy individuals who show no symptoms of the virus shouldn’t be tested — even if they are known to have been in contact with an infected individual.Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii public school cafeteria workers begin free meal service. Public school cafeteria workers distributed 1,089 breakfasts and 2,603 lunches to children Monday, the first day of the free Grab-and-Go meal service for students on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii island and Kauai. Star-Advertiser.

Bank of Hawaii to close 40 branches temporarily. Bank of Hawaii said Monday that it will temporarily close 40 of its 68 branches across the state and the West Pacific Region due to the spread of the new coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

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University of Hawaii researcher and team pursue potential coronavirus vaccine. University of Hawaii researcher Axel Lehrer is working with New Jersey-based biopharmaceutical company Soligenix, Inc., to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, the team announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

UH Research Team Developing COVID-19 Vaccine. Animal trials could begin in several weeks. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Malls, hotels and other businesses close as city’s stay-at-home order takes effect. Responding to a flurry of questions about what constitutes an “essential” activity, the mayor on Monday acknowledged that his “stay-at-home” order was broadly worded to allow daily activities to continue while also working to stop the spread of coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Caldwell's "Stay at Home/Work from Home" order takes effect. Mayor Caldwell issued an emergency order on Monday to combat the spread of COVID-19. KITV4.

EMS inundated with non-emergency calls, asks public to stay home. The City and County of Honolulu’s Emergency Medical Services said they’ve been responding to hundreds of Covid-19 related calls, most of which they said are non-emergencies. KHON2.

Honolulu Bus Drivers ‘On The Front Lines’ Of The Coronavirus Crisis. Passenger counts have plummeted as COVID-19 numbers climb. Some drivers remain wary of what lies ahead. Civil Beat.

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U.S. Army closes several gates at Oahu bases due to COVID-19. The United States Army Garrison announced Monday plans to close gates at four Oahu bases in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Army closes several O'ahu installation gates. U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii to close five gates in response to COVID-19. KITV4.

Military training, preparedness in Hawaii running into conflict with coronavirus social distancing. All gyms on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam have been closed until further notice after a “patron” of the Hickam gym tested positive for coronavirus, the base said Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

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As the city’s stay-at-home order goes into effect, many Oahu businesses had no choice Monday afternoon but to shut their doors for the foreseeable future. The fashion industry ― including hair salons, eyelash studios, and other spa services ― weren’t considered “essential” services under the order. Hawaii News Now.

Ala Moana, Pearlridge limit shopping for essentials only. Shopping for all but basic necessities has been put on hold on much of Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Surfers and walkers fear disregard of distancing rules will cause harm to all. All City and County of Honolulu parks had been closed to the public since Thursday, but people were allowed to exercise outdoors if they stayed 6 feet apart, and to cross city parks to access the ocean, where the city has no jurisdiction below the high-­water line on the beach, which lies under state control. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu’s Spending On Homeless Stagnates Even As Problem Persists. The city says it needs the state to expand mental and behavioral health services for the homeless population for more spending to do any good. Civil Beat.

Kahala Hotel & Resort to temporarily close to help stop spread of coronavirus. The Kahala Hotel & Resort will temporarily suspend operations beginning Tuesday in an effort to stop the spread of the coronavirus, the company announced Monday. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Beachgoers Ignore Closures Across Big Island. All state parks in Hawai‘i are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic circling the globe, but that’s not stopping Big Island residents and visitors from visiting the beach. Parkgoers ranged from indifferent to indignant about the idea that the state and county are attempting to close off the oceanfront to the public in an effort to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Big Island Now.

Maui

MPD preps for COVID-19 impact; officer quarantined. Officer had contact with person under investigation for virus. Maui News.

About 75 Tested for COVID-19 in Maui Drive Through Site. About 75 people were tested Monday for COVID-19 on the first day of testing at the drive-through site at the War Memorial Gym parking lot on Maui, according to the Maui District Health Office. Maui Now.

Unused Rental Vehicles Pile Up Around Kahului Airport Ahead of Quarantine Order. With many travelers opting to leave before a mandatory quarantine takes effect on Thursday, and stay-at-home order take effect on Wednesday, the overflow of returned rental vehicles is starting to pile up around Kahului Airport. Maui Now.

Kauai

Looking at lockdown. Mayor Derek Kawakami announced the Kaua‘i Stay At Home order on Monday, promising more information for the public today and confirming the fourth case of COVID-19 on the island. Garden Island.

Lights out for seabirds. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife service has finalized the first draft of the Kaua‘i Seabird Habitat Conservation plan, which outlines steps Kaua‘i is taking to minimize light pollution and other dangers to the threatened Newell’s shearwater (Puffinus auricularis newelli, Hawaiian name: ‘a‘o), the endangered Hawaiian petrel (Pterodroma sandwichensis, Hawaiian name: ‘ua‘u), and the endangered Hawai‘i distinct population segment (DPS) of the band-rumped storm-petrel (Oceanodroma castro, Hawaiian name: ‘ake‘ake). Garden Island.

Thursday, May 17, 2018

Military response formed for Kilauea volcano emergency as earthquakes rattle summit, plumes shoot into air, ash fallout warnings issued, plus $140M state psychiatric hospital plans unveiled, details on Akaka memorial service, new super PAC with rail ties, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Deputy Adjutant Gen. Gary Ishikawa, l, and Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara address the media. PC: Big Island Video News
Hawaii governor forms command to 'streamline military response' to Kilauea volcano eruption on Big Island. Pacific Business News.

Joint Task Force 50 in position to support county government. Tribune-Herald.

Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara spoke to media at the Keaukaha Military Reserve on Wednesday afternoon, announcing the approval of the request for the Joint Task Force 50. Big Island Video News.

Press Release: Gov. David Y. Ige has announced the formation of a Dual-Status Command, Joint Task Force 50 (JTF) in response to the Kilauea lava flow on Hawai‘i Island. Gov. Ige’s formal request to appoint Brig. Gen. Kenneth Hara was submitted on Tuesday, May 15 and approved by Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis earlier today. Governor's Office.

An explosive eruption from Kilauea's summit on Thursday morning sent an ash plume soaring some 30,000 feet into the air, and officials are warning that ash emissions will cover a large part of the Big Island. Hawaii News Now.

Explosive eruption at Kilauea summit; those in area advised to shelter in place amidst ash plume. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Volcano Observatory officials on Thursday confirmed that an explosive eruption occurred at the summit of Kilauea. As a result, the National Weather Service issued an ashfall advisory for the Ka'u District of the Big Island. Officials say the ash plume reached 25,000 feet. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Volcano Observatory reports that an explosive eruption at Kilauea summit has occurred at 4:17 a.m.. The resulting ash plume may affect the surrounding areas.  The wind may carry the ash plume north towards Kau, Volcano, Mt. View, Keaau and as far as Hilo. KITV.

A series of sharp, shallow earthquakes rattled the summit area of Kilauea volcano Wednesday morning, and the gray plume from an ash eruption at the summit crater continued to distribute volcanic ash as far away as Kau and Pahoa village. Star-Advertiser.

Earthquakes Batter Roads As More Ash Spews From Kilauea. The state is forming a joint task force to handle mass evacuations of the Puna district if lava flows cover major roads and isolates the area. Associated Press.

Emergency officials are keeping a close eye on Highway 11 after cracks appeared Wednesday on the road near the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. KHON2.

Kilauea’s summit was rocked by shallow earthquakes Wednesday as the volcano’s caldera inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park subsides along with its magma chamber. Tribune-Herald.

Volcanic gas emissions remain elevated throughout the area downwind of the fissures, and magma continues to be supplied to the lower East Rift Zone. Big Island Video News.

Geologists: Kilauea is no Mount St. Helens. Hawaii News Now.

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A petition urging Hawaii Gov. David Ige to sign a bill into law that would prohibit the sale of sunscreens containing certain ingredients found to be harmful to marine life is gaining traction, having garnered close to its goal of 40,000 signatures. Pacific Business News.

New Super PAC With Pro-Rail Ties Emerges In Hawaii Elections. The group, All Hawaii Stand Together, has ties to the pro-rail Pacific Resource Partnership that has been a big player in past elections. Civil Beat.

The late U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka will lie in state at the Capitol rotunda Friday and Saturday and be eulogized during two public services and one private service before being laid to rest at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl. Star-Advertiser.

The family of the late Sen. Daniel Akaka released new information on Wednesday concerning the schedule for his memorial service. Hawaii News Now.

Plans for the construction of a new Hawaii State Hospital facility were unveiled today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Architects, designers and state health officials Wednesday pledged that a new Hawaii State Hospital in Kaneohe would be more secure, safer for staff and better suited to help patients with mental health issues who are court ordered for treatment. Star-Advertiser.

Security upgrades planned at State Hospital in wake of high-profile escape. Hawaii News Now.

Press Release: Governor David Ige and the Hawaii Department of Health today unveiled the security features for a new, $140 million, state-of-the-art Hawaii State Hospital building to enhance the safety of patients, employees and the community. Governor's Office.

Health department director Dr. Virginia Pressler looks forward to retirement. Dr. Virginia Pressler announced last week that she will be retiring after three and a half years with the state Department of Health. KHON2.

Oahu

Lawsuit: Managers Took Bribes At Low-Income Rentals. Executives at a Hawaii property management company say the allegations are false and upsetting. Civil Beat.

Pacific Office Properties considering shutdown. A local company that owns three Honolulu office tower properties lost more money in the first quarter and let investors know its board is considering alternatives that could include dissolution. Star-Advertiser.

‘Lime’ Rental Scooters Invade Honolulu With Mixed Results. The new motorized rental scooters are appearing on sidewalks in Honolulu, but the mayor is not pleased. Civil Beat.

Honolulu home prices rose by 4 percent in April, and Hawaii’s largest market was one of the few in the United States where inventory is growing, according to the May National Housing Report from Re/Max. Pacific Business News.

“Faith Betrayed,” a Honolulu Civil Beat story about Guam’s reckoning with the torturous legacy of decades of sexual abuse by local priests, has been awarded the Sally Jacobsen International Perspective Award from the Associated Press Media Editors. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Lava burning up tourism: Economic impact to Hawaii Island could be worse than thought. West Hawaii Today.

No-Entry Zone Established for Hawaii Electric Light Crews in Leilani Estates. Big Island Now.

No-entry zone established for Hawaii Electric Light crews in Leilani Estates. KHON2.

The eruptions in lower Puna won't seem to let up as several older fissures continue to reignite, shooting lava into the air. Hawaii News Now.

Cultural practitioner performs oli (chant) in honor of goddess Pele. While the eruptions along the East Rift Zone and volcanic activity at Halemaumau Crater are awe-inspiring, they are also significant to the Hawaiian culture. KHON2.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald donated warehouse space to the American Red Cross for its ongoing lava disaster relief efforts. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu Publications Inc., the parent company of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser and the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, is providing warehouse space to the American Red Cross in Hilo for the storage of goods to be used at its shelters. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Preparing to serve up environmentally friendly plate lunches. Ban on polystyrene foam products takes effect Dec. 31. Maui News.

Vodka maker purchases Maui pineapple farm. Principals of a California-based maker and distributor of distilled spirits have bought a pineapple farm on Maui that was once part of a more than 100-year-old plantation. Star-Advertiser.

New ownership announced for Haliimaile Pineapple Co. Company acquisition ensures Maui Gold pineapple will continue. Maui News.

The owners of Haliimaile Distilling Co. have purchased Haliimaile Pineapple Co., producers of Maui Gold pineapple in Hawaii. Pacific Business News.

Hawaiian Airlines started new daily nonstop flights Wednesday between Maui’s Kahului Airport and San Diego International Airport. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai

The County Council approved the purchase of property along the Hanalei River Wednesday. Garden Island.

Water quality has cleaned up in some areas on Kauai’s North Shore after the April floods, but the state Department of Health still has a brown water advisory for some places on the island. Garden Island.

Mud is smothering the coral in Hanalei Bay, according to one resident who explored the reef there Saturday. Garden Island.

Kauai's legislators are slated to be at the Lihue Business Association meeting 7:30 to 9 a.m. May 24 at Duke’s Canoe Club. Garden Island.

Tuesday, January 16, 2018

Plenty of blame to go around as Ige goes on TV, names brigadier general to oversee false attack alert investigation, Japan mistakenly sends similar alert on public TV, Legislature prepares to convene, Hawaiian overthrow anniversary to be commemorated, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

screen capture
Ige addresses state on live TV, screen capture
Investigations into missile scare intensify. Hawaii leaders are taking heat from the highest level for the colossal blunder that resulted in 38 minutes of terror for residents, who thought that a missile was headed for the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Brigadier General Will Review Why Hawaii Sent Out False Nuke Alarm. The initial review ordered by Gov. David Ige is due in 30 days, with a final report due in 60 days. Civil Beat.

Brig. Gen. Hara
Governor Ige Announces Actions Following Fallout from False Missile Alert. Hawaii Public Radio.

VIDEO: Apologetic Ige Taps Gen. Hara For Emergency Review. Big Island Video News.

In a rare address to the state Monday night, the governor again apologized for the "fear, anxiety and heartache" Saturday's false alert about an inbound ballistic missile caused in the islands and pledged that his administration is taking steps to ensure it doesn't happen again. Hawaii News Now.

Full text: Gov. Ige Delivers Address on False Alert. KITV.

Japan’s public broadcaster mistakenly sent an alert Tuesday warning citizens of a North Korean missile launch and urging them to seek immediate shelter, then minutes later corrected it, days after a similar error in Hawaii. Associated Press.

Feds say state didn’t need to wait on them for missile-alert correction. KHON2.

Hawaii’s emergency authorities lacked reasonable safeguards to prevent the kind of false alert that panicked residents on Saturday with a warning of an imminent ballistic missile attack, the head of the Federal Communications Commission said. Bloomberg News.

The Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission called Saturday’s false alarm concerning a ballistic missile attack “absolutely unacceptable.” Hawaii Public Radio.

Legislators aim to avert future false alarms. House Speaker Scott Saiki is tearing up and rewriting portions of his opening-day speech at the state Legislature to urge his colleagues to focus more attention on public safety and disaster preparedness in the wake of Saturday’s missile scare. Star-Advertiser.

Button pusher not holding up well under multiple death threats. The state “warning officer” at the center of Saturday’s bogus alert of an imminent missile attack that triggered widespread panic is a 10-year veteran and nonunion, exempt employee who has received dozens of death threats by fax, telephone, social media. Star-Advertiser.

HI-EMA alert screen
Government officials have released an image of the screen a Hawaii Emergency Management Agency would have seen before triggering a false missile alert Saturday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Opponents smell blood as Hawaii’s governor takes heat for the false nuclear missile alert. Civil Beat.

Will there be a possible political shake up post false missile alert? KHON2.

Former Gov. Neil Abercrombie blasted the Ige administration for taking too long to issue the all-clear signal to Saturday’s missile alert mistake. Hawaii News Now.

Sen. Schatz: Scrap missile alert system and build a new one from scratch. KHON2.

What you need to know if you didn't receive Saturday's emergency alert. KITV.

Missile-alert error reveals uncertainty about how to react. Residents and tourists alike remained rattled after the mistaken alert was blasted out to cellphones across the islands with a warning to seek immediate shelter and the ominous statement: “This is not a drill.” Associated Press.

Isle system fails to deliver warning to all cellphones. Just how many people in Hawaii didn’t receive the dire but incorrect warning on their mobile phones isn’t known. Star-Advertiser.

Local attorneys say the level of negligence or recklessness involved in Saturday’s false alarm will determine whether people can successfully sue the state. Star-Advertiser.

Man suffers massive heart attack during false alert. Star-Advertiser.

After false missile alert, some Hawaii businesses threw customers out. Hawaii News Now.

In light of Saturday’s false ballistic missile alert, the American Red Cross on Monday reminded Hawaii residents to remain prepared for any disaster, natural or man-made. Tribune-Herald.

Here’s what to do if missiles are inbound. Garden Island.

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The Legislature is set to open its 2018 session Wednesday with a focus on housing and homelessness, two perpetual problems in Hawaii that are only expected to get worse in the coming years. Civil Beat.

The 2018 legislative session officially kicks off Wednesday. That means lawmakers will begin reviewing thousands of measures and soliciting public input on bills. Civil Beat.

Thousands to mark 125th anniversary of Hawaiian government overthrow. Hawaii News Now.

A look back at the overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom as thousands are expected to observe the anniversary on Jan. 17. KITV.

Oahu

When missile alert went out, hundreds sought refuge in Ala Moana gym. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu’s solar industry continued to shrink in 2017 as the number of building permits issued for rooftop solar projects by the City and County of Honolulu declined nearly 35 percent from the year-earlier period. Star-Advertiser.

Consumer prices in Honolulu rose last year at the fastest pace since 2011, driven by sharp increases in the cost of gasoline and electricity. Star-Advertiser.

Iolani school will soon house over 100 students as the school prepares to break ground on new dorms Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

A state Ethics Commission attorney has cleared Mayor Harry Kim’s contracted lobbyist to perform his duties without registering as a lobbyist, according to county Corporation Counsel Joe Kamelamela. West Hawaii Today.

The Big Island real estate market ended 2017 in a strong position after residential sales increased islandwide from 2016. Not only did the final quarter of 2017 see residential property sales on Hawaii Island rise slightly — from 2,307 in 2016 to 2,494 — the median residential sales price increased by about 6 percent to $350,000, according to listing service sales data. Tribune-Herald.

Several residents at the Alii Heights subdivision in North Kona dealt with more than downed deep wells and mandatory water restrictions during the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply’s tumultuous year. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Honoapiilani Work at Keawe Street to Commence on Tuesday. Maui Now.

Marchers continue to advance King’s vision. Gathering of many races is ‘proof we are living his dream’ Maui News.

Kauai

'Ku'i at the County' is Wednesday. Garden Island.

The Hawaii Government Employees Association joined efforts of the Kauai Island Labor Alliance, and the Interfaith Roundtable of Kauai each hosted events celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday. Garden Island.