Interisland travel quarantine to end June 16, Ige reports on Trump telephone call, Say leaving Legislature to run for Honolulu City Council, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. Ige holds press conference at Honolulu airport.

Gov. David Ige to lift 14-day interisland travel quarantine on June 16. Gov. David Ige is lifting the 14-day interisland travel quarantine for Hawaii residents on June 16 to allow families to “reconnect with one another” and restore the local economy amid the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Will End Interisland Travel Quarantine June 16. Gov. David Ige described the move as the first, incremental step to reopening Hawaii to tourists from outside of the state. Civil Beat.

Mandatory quarantine for interisland travel ends June 16; Ige encourages residents to visit neighbor islands. Gov. David Ige said Monday he hopes his decision to end on June 16 the 14-day mandatory quarantine currently in effect for interisland travelers will help restart the kamaaina tourism economy. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Inter-Island Travel Quarantine To End June 16. State officials announced the inter-island quarantine, enacted to slow the spread of COVID-19, will be lifted in two weeks. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i to Lift Interisland Travel Quarantine by Mid-June. At a press conference from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu Monday afternoon, Gov. David Ige announced that he would lift the mandatory, 14-day interisland travel quarantine as of June 16. Big Island Now.

Gov. Ige Lifts Interisland Quarantine on June 16; Out-of-State Quarantine to be Addressed Next Week. Governor David Ige today announced he will lift the interisland quarantine on travel between the Hawaiian Islands, effective on June 16, 2020. Maui Now.

Travel between islands to resume without 14-day quarantine. The governor takes big steps towards reopening the state when he announced the 14-day mandatory quarantine order for interisland travel will be lifted starting June 16. KHON2.

Interisland quarantine to be lifted on June 16. The 14-day mandatory self-quarantine for interisland travel will be lifted on June 16, Gov. David Ige announced in a press conference Monday afternoon. Pacific Business News.

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Inter-island travel will help sales for some neighbor island businesses. There are many businesses that rely on tourism and sales from inter-island travelers. So for them, the easing of travel restrictions can’t come soon enough. KHON2.

Hawaiian Airlines adopts virus-stopping policies. Hawaiian Airlines on Monday offered a glimpse of new procedures already in place for checking in and boarding its flights at the airport. Star-Advertiser.

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25,000 or more could leave Hawaii as economy struggles, economists predict. University of Hawaii economic researchers are predicting an out-migration of 25,000 people or more from Hawaii by 2022, many of whom will leave to find work on the mainland as the state struggles to revive and reopen its tourism industry. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands Of Residents May Leave Hawaii Due To COVID Recession. The recession stemming from the global COVID-19 pandemic may accelerate the state’s ongoing population decline according to local economic forecasts. Hawaii Public Radio.

UH economist: Tens of thousands could flee Hawaii. A University of Hawaii economist predicts that by 2022, tens of thousands of Hawaii residents will leave to seek employment elsewhere because of the effect COVID-19 has had on the state’s economy. Tribune-Herald.

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Reopening Tourism: Residents, Visitors Must Trust They’ll Stay Virus-Free. That means new systems of testing, hygiene, safe practices and cleaning by airlines, airports, hotels, restaurants, stores and government, say tourism industry leaders. Hawaii Business magazine.

Putting Hawaii Tourism On A Sustainable Path Post-Pandemic. Economists say the state’s economic situation will remain dire without tourism, but residents are fed up with overcrowding by visitors. Experts say now is the time to reorient Hawaii’s visitor industry to a more sustainable path. Hawaii Public Radio.

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PUC opens emergency investigation of Young Brothers. The Public Utilities Commission will conduct an emergency investigation into Young Brothers’ financial condition after the interisland shipper notified the state it needed millions in funding to survive the COVID-19 pandemic. West Hawaii Today.

The state appears to support financial assistance request by Young Brothers. It appears that the state supports a request by Young Brothers to provide $25 million in financial assistance. KITV4.

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Survey Finds The Pandemic Is Hurting Native Hawaiian Businesses. But Native Hawaiian-owned businesses are less dependent on tourism than non-Native Hawaiian owned businesses, the survey found. Civil Beat.

A Hawaiʻi Department of Health survey shows that most island residents recognize COVID-19 as a serious concern and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Big Island Video News.

DOE Closing Some Food Sites, Advocates Concerned That Community Help May Not Be Enough. The Hawaii State Department of Education is closing about a third of its grab ‘n go food sites for the summer, and many more are taking a break until June 8th. Hawaii Public Radio.

People Are Avoiding The Doctor Due To COVID-19 Fears. ER visits are way down at most hospitals. So too are visits for preventive care like colonoscopies or eye exams. Civil Beat.

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Trump on nationwide protests. Hawaii Governor David Ige was one of the governors on the call with President Donald Trump. Governor Ige shared his thoughts on the conversation on Monday. KITV4.

Ige ‘extremely disappointed’ by Trump’s response to mainland protests. Gov. David Ige joined other governors from across the country Monday on a call to discuss the protests and rioting in U.S. cities in recent days, and Ige said he was “extremely disappointed” at Trump’s urging the governors to crack down hard on the protests. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii starts June with health officials reporting no new coronavirus cases in the islands today as the statewide infection count remains at 652. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 1: No New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Land tied to a bankrupt Albert Hee company is bought by a related firm. A Hawaii fiber-optic cable network established by Albert Hee is closer to new ownership in the wake of Hee’s 2015 federal tax fraud conviction. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Calvin Say Leaving Long-Held House Seat For Council Run. One of Hawaii’s longest-serving lawmakers aims to fill a vacant council position. Civil Beat.

Increased Army artillery training at Schofield sign of ‘new normal’ following coronavirus shutdown. The 25th Infantry Division said it will conduct “Operation Thunder Strike,” an artillery live fire exercise, starting Wednesday at Schofield and running to June 17. Star-Advertiser.

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Hunter captures a live, 4-foot ball python in Kahaluu forest. A resident captured a 4-foot-long ball python snake while hunting in Windward Oahu, and turned it in Tuesday to the Hawaiian Humane Society. Star-Advertiser.

Ball python captured by a hunter in Windward Oahu. The Department of Agriculture said the snake was turned in to authorities on May 26 by the Oahu resident who said he found it while hunting in a Kahaluu forest. Hawaii News Now.

Non-venomous ball python turned in after it was found in Kahalu'u. A man turned in a non-venomous ball python while hunting last week in Kahalu'u. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Comments Sought On Hawaiʻi County Code Changes. The County of Hawaiʻi is seeking input from design professionals and the general public regarding changes to the County’s Administrative, Electrical, and Plumbing Codes. Big Island Video News.

Henry Street to get facelift: County seeking bids for road work project. Henry Street from Kuakini Highway to Queen Kaahumanu Highway will be getting a facelift this fall. West Hawaii Today.

More businesses back to work. Medium-risk businesses were allowed to reopen to the public after getting permission last week from Mayor Harry Kim and Gov. David Ige. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Med-QUEST paring of health insurance providers is nixed. The state Department of Human Services is rescinding a controversial request for proposals process that had pared Med-QUEST insurers for Maui County from five to two, the department announced Friday. Maui News.

County to Accept Public Testimony on Proposed Wailuku Hotel. Maui residents will have three opportunities to offer input on a proposed hotel that would sit on the corner of Main and Market Streets in Wailuku. Maui Now.

Kauai

Former Kauai mayor Bernard Carvalho to run for County Council. Carvalho won a two-year term in December 2008 to replace Mayor Bryan Baptiste, who died in office in June 2008, and then won reelection twice. Star-Advertiser.

Fifth Circuit Court reopens. The Hawai‘i State Judiciary Fifth Circuit Court opened up for regular operations at its District Court yesterday. Face coverings are required. Garden Island.

Restaurants reopen dine-in. Larry Feinstein of the Kaua‘i Beer Company said they never closed. Garden Island.

Tax revenues expected to plummet, travel quarantine extended to June 30, Japan travel bubble considered, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige and county mayors Zoom conference

Newest projection: State tax revenues will drop by a jaw-dropping $2.25B this fiscal year. The state Council on Revenues on Thursday lowered its estimates on state tax revenues by a jaw-dropping $2.25 billion for this fiscal year and next. But lawmakers said the lower estimates will not require across-the-board furloughs or pay cuts. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii budget shortfall now projected to be $2.3 billion. There was a lot of guesswork involved, but a panel of experts concluded Thursday that state tax collections will drop by 7% this fiscal year and another 12% next year, leaving Gov. David Ige’s administration with a whopping $2.3 billion budget hole to patch up. Star-Advertiser.

State Tax Revenue Projected To Drop By Over $2 Billion As A Result of Pandemic. The Council on Revenues, the 7 member body responsible for estimating future tax receipts, said on Thursday that collections for the 2020 and 2021 fiscal years will drop by a combined $2.3 billion. Hawaii Public Radio.

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$7 Billion From Feds To Hawaiʻi For Pandemic Relief, So Far. Total coronavirus federal relief funding for Hawai‘i is expected to top more than $7 billion, says U.S. Senator Brian Schatz. Big Island Video News.

Hawaiʻi Coronavirus Federal Relief Funding Expected to Top $7B. US Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced that the total coronavirus federal relief funding for Hawai‘i is expected to top more than $7 billion. The new total includes federal funding already received and expected to be received by Hawai‘i small businesses, families, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, state and county governments, and other organizations. Maui Now.

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Report: Hawaii’s Lack Of A Plan To Reopen Tourism Is ‘Disturbing’. The latest UHERO scenario puts the state’s economic recovery years off, especially if political leaders wait much longer to re-energize the visitor industry. Civil Beat.

Ige Plans to Extend 14-Day Quarantine for Mainland, International Travelers. Gov. David Ige plans to extend the 14-day quarantine for transpacific and international travelers beyond June 30 as the state continues its efforts to suppress the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Now.

Ige to extend quarantine for mainland, international travelers beyond June 30. The governor says a mandatory, 14-day quarantine for mainland and international travelers will be extended beyond June 30. Hawaii News Now.

Trans-Pacific quarantine will go beyond June, Gov. David Ige says. Gov. David Ige said Thursday that while an announcement about ending the mandatory 14-day interisland quarantine will be made in the next few days, the same two-week restriction for incoming travelers to Hawaii will be extended beyond June 30. Star-Advertiser.

Ige confirms 14-day quarantine for out-of-state visitors will be extended beyond June 30. Gov. David Ige said Thursday the 14-day quarantine for out-of-state travelers to Hawaii will be extended beyond June 30 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Ige Plans to Extend 14-Day Travel Quarantine for Out-of-State Arrivals to Hawai‘i Beyond June 30. Hawaiʻi Governor David Ige today said that the 14-day travel quarantine will be extended for domestic and international travelers past June 30, but an official announcement will be made at a later date. Maui Now.

New proposal plans from senators meant to help restart tourism in Hawaii. There's a new proposal to help residents get back to work and restart tourism in Hawaii. KITV4.

County mayors discuss reopening and answer resident questions. County mayors had a meeting with Governor David Ige on Thursday afternoon to discuss each county’s re-opening plans and process. KHON2.

Tensions Grow Over How — And When — To Reopen Tourism. Lawmakers scrambling for ways to restart tourism expressed concern on Thursday after the governor announced plans to extend a 14-day travel quarantine. Civil Beat.

Feasibility of a Japan travel bubble. Could a soft opening of the state to Japanese visitors be the first strategy in establishing the state’s economy and reinventing tourism? Garden Island.

Proposed pilot travel program between Japan, Hawaii could be quarantine-free. On Thursday, Governor David Ige says he will be extending the 14-day quarantine beyond June 30th. KHON2.

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Restaurant inspections will include looking at COVID-19 procedures. Food safety inspectors are trained to prevent food borne illnesses, now they have to make sure restaurants are also following the guidelines when it comes to preventing the spread of COVID-19. KHON2.

Hawaiʻi's Path to Economic Recovery Could be Green. Hawai’i has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country with nearly a quarter of a million island residents out of work. As state leaders consider solutions to this crisis, there’s one approach that would create jobs, address some local issues, and reach back to a bit of history that worked in the past. Hawaii Public Radio.

Special master defends early release of Hawaii inmates, says recidivism rate low. Special Master Daniel Foley addressed criticisms regarding the release of hundreds of state inmates to reduce the spread of COVID-19 but said continuing to get them out of jails and prisons will be difficult. Star-Advertiser.

New Study Reveals Hawaiʻi Doctors Struggling Under HMSA's Payment System. A new survey of Hawaii primary care providers reveals a majority are struggling to stay in business because of changes made to the way they’re compensated by the state’s largest insurer HMSA. Hawaii Public Radio.

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New COVID-19 infection identified through state’s expanded surveillance program. One of Honolulu’s three new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday was the first identified through the state’s expanded surveillance program that 32 doctors statewide are participating in. Hawaii News Now.

Three new coronavirus cases on Oahu brings Hawaii’s statewide total to 647. Hawaii Department of Health officials said today that the state’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 647, up three new cases from Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

DOH Reports 3 New COVID-19 Cases Statewide. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reports three new COVID-19 cases bringing the state total to 647. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Updates: 3 New Cases; Green Seeks Interisland Travel Easing Soon; Economist Warns Of 2nd Wave. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Civil Beat/HNN Poll: Retired Judge Enjoys Double-Digit Lead In Prosecutor’s Race. Steve Alm is out front so far. But two-thirds of Honolulu voters have not made up their minds and many have no idea who is running. Civil Beat.

Honolulu’s mayoral candidates throw out the old playbook to campaign during a pandemic. The primary election is just around the corner, but political analysts say the election is the farthest thing from many people’s minds. Hawaii News Now.

Earl Tsuneyoshi Announces Run For Menor’s Council Seat. The Army combat veteran is challenging former state Sen. Will Espero and comedian Augie T for the District 9 spot. Civil Beat.

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Rail project expecting $100M shortfall, possibly $100M more. The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit got grim financial news Thursday, with no easy answers ahead. Star-Advertiser.

HART’s ‘Out-Of-The-Box’ Plan To Keep Construction Moving Fizzles. Rail officials had proposed a major change order to keep work going, but they weren’t able to reach a deal in time. Civil Beat.

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Army investigates reports that military members were involved in large beach parties. The Army said it is working with law enforcement agencies to investigate reports that members of the military were involved in two large beach parties over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Investigation continues into memorial day weekend beach parties. Lawmakers continue to condemn the large parties over Memorial Day weekend on Oahu beaches, the military said its working with local law enforcement to investigate who was behind the illegal gatherings and to find out if service members took part in it. KHON2.

Virtual town hall to discuss proposed Chinatown homeless center related to COVID-19. Plans for what’s being called a Homeless Triage and CARES Center in Chinatown will be the subject of a “virtual town hall” being held this afternoon by the Institute for Human Services, the project’s sponsor. Star-Advertiser.

DOH Cites 4 People For Running Unlicensed Adult Care Homes. The state Office of Health Care Assurance has continued random inspections and investigations of care homes for the elderly. Civil Beat.

Lawsuit: Oahu Hospital Allegedly Shielded 2 Sexual Harassers. The lawsuit claims the hospital knew its chief medical officer and another staffer were requesting private physical therapy services from a female employee. Star-Advertiser.

Will it be a flood or a trickle when Oahu restaurants reopen? Owners will soon find out whether diners will rush back or be cautious when the ban on dining inside restaurants is lifted a week from today. Star-Advertiser.

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet intends to hold soft reopening in June. Aloha Stadium intends to hold a soft reopening of the Swap Meet and Marketplace in June, stadium Manager Scott Chan told the Stadium Authority on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor’s New COVID-19 Rule Makes Some Changes To Planned Reopenings. Certain Big Island businesses, operations, or activities are permitted to re-open June 1, 2020, and places of worship are now allowed to re-open on May 30. Big Island Video News.

Big Island to Reopen to Most Businesses, Activities by June 1. Expanding on his initial announcement to allow businesses and activities like church services, salons and indoor dining at restaurants to reopen, Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim on Thursday greenlit most other sectors business and social life to resume in June. Big Island Now.

Places of worship can reopen this weekend, but some will wait longer before bringing their congregants back. While places of worship will be allowed to reopen Saturday, some churches are choosing to remain closed for the time being to protect their congregations. Tribune-Herald.

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Public-private partnership proposed: Environmental commission urges fast work on sewage discharges. Casting a wary eye toward a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that said discharging wastewater indirectly into the sea by allowing it to flow through groundwater violates the Clean Water Act, the county Environmental Management Commission on Wednesday unanimously voted to ask the County Council and administration to solicit proposals for public-private partnerships to fix island projects falling into that category. West Hawaii Today.

$6.3M allocated to Konawaena High School for athletic site improvements. Among the $5.1 billion in capital improvements allocated by a bill in the Legislature now awaiting Gov. David Ige’s signature, $6.3 million will be heading to Konawaena High School to improve their athletic sites. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Former South Maui state Rep. Joseph Bertram III dies. Community holds tree planting in his honor. Maui News.

Most businesses, activities get green light to reopen Monday. Some may choose to wait, though. Maui News.

PSLU Committee to Hear Change in Zoning for Kilohana Makai Workforce Housing Project. On Wednesday, June 3, 2020, at 9 a.m., the Planning and Sustainable Land Use Committee will meet via the online platform BlueJeans to hear the Change in Zoning Application for the Kilohana Makai Workforce Housing Project in Kīhei. Maui Now.

JoAnn Inamasu Named Maui Office of Economic Development Director. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino today announced the appointment of JoAnn Inamasu as the new director of the County’s Office of Economic Development. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai CIP budget surpasses $217 million. When the State Legislature passed its $5.1 billion Capital Improvement Project budget bill May 21 for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021, more than $217 million was set aside for projects on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Russell would do it! There will be a food drive coordinated by the motorcycle riders, Sunday starting at 9 a.m. on the lawn of the historic County Building. Garden Island.

Ige, Caldwell unpopular in poll; UH makes SAT, ACT optional; big beach party busted at Kaena Point State Park, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Gov. David Ige, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell

Civil Beat/HNN Poll: Voters Have Negative View Of Ige, Caldwell. Voters have cooled on U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, too. But Lt. Gov. Josh Green is very popular. Civil Beat.

In 2019, Hawaii saw 10M visitors. This year, the state projects visitor arrivals won’t top 3.5M. As the governor seeks to reboot Hawaii’s economy, the question of how to reopen tourism safely remains unanswered. The state is ramping up efforts to screen incoming arrivals and brainstorming other possible ways to keep coronavirus out as tourism picks up, including requiring that visitors be tested to avoid quarantine. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green hopes to reopen Hawaii’s tourism industry by July. The UNITE HERE Local 5 union is demanding personal protective equipment for workers, along with better training, and they want to ensure that everyone gets their jobs back. Hawaii News Now.

Head of Labor Department: 190,000 could remain unemployed through end of year. A staggering 242,000 people are unemployed in Hawaii. And economists are predicting that less than half of those residents will be back in the workforce this year. Hawaii News Now.

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University of Hawaii makes SAT, ACT optional for Fall 2021 applicants. SAT and ACT scores will be optional for students applying to enter the University of Hawaii as freshmen in the fall 2021 semester, given the disruption of the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

SAT and ACT scores now optional for first-time college students applying to UH. SAT and ACT scores are now optional for first-time college students applying to University of Hawaii at Manoa. KITV4.

UH Manoa makes SAT. ACT scores optional for new student applications. The university is allowing this one-time exemption to incoming undergraduate applicants, for the fall semester. KHON2.

New, flexible Hawaii scholarship fund aims to give these kids hope. Seniors graduating from Hawaii’s public schools this month can get a boost toward their careers through a $2 million scholarship fund to be announced today that will offer flexible aid tailored to each student’s needs. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii’s Hotels Are Bleeding Cash Amid Shutdown. Flushing toilets and cleaning pools costs money, plus there are looming taxes. Civil Beat.

Puhahonu tops Mauna Loa as the world’s largest shield volcano. Below the reef that surrounds Gardner Pinnacles is a shield volcano that University of Hawaii-Manoa scientists have proclaimed the largest in the world. Star-Advertiser.

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VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 25: No New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii — Again. Hawaii health officials reported no new cases of the coronavirus on Memorial Day. Civil Beat.

DOH: No new COVID-19 cases on Monday. The state Department of Health reports no new cases of COVID-19 in Hawaii, with the statewide case count standing at 643. Tribune-Herald.

DOH Reports Zero New COVID-19 Cases Overnight. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported zero new cases of coronavirus for the second consecutive day on Monday, leaving the statewide total at 643. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Weekend parties leave Oahu beaches trashed and raise concerns about spread of virus. On this Memorial Day, as the nation honors fallen service members, some soldiers could be in trouble for breaking all kinds of rules at the beach. Hawaii News Now.

Large beach gatherings leave trash and break emergency rules. The Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources reported more than 200 beachgoers late into the night at Kaena Point State Park, officers said it was a violation of emergency rules and it took hours to clean up the mess left behind. KHON2.

Environmental group noticed less trash at Oahu's beaches on Memorial Day. Non-profit Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii had volunteers picking-up trash at four beaches on the island on Monday. KITV4.

Law enforcement breaks up party of 200 people at Kaena Point State Park overnight. Law enforcement broke up a large beach party of approximately 200 people accused of violating emergency rules at Kaena Point State Park on Oahu’s North Shore late Sunday. Star-Advertiser.

200 People At Kaena Beach Park Prompt Police Crackdown. Law enforcement broke up the gathering in the early hours Monday. Civil Beat.

Officers clear more than 200 from huge party at Kaena State Park. Officers broke up a huge party with more than 200 people at Kaena Point State Park on Sunday night, and said a number of other large gatherings were reported islandwide. Hawaii News Now.

Stay clear of Sacred Falls, the state warns hikers. Star-Advertiser.

Preliminary projections have Honolulu facing another sweltering summer. 2020 could be delivering another miserably hot summer to the state of Hawaii, with ocean surface temperatures projected to be normal or higher than usual by the National Weather Service. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

CIP funds slated for Hilo medical facilities. A capital improvement project budget passed Thursday by the state Legislature includes funding for Hilo Medical Center’s Cardiac Center and the Hawaii Pacific Oncology Center. Tribune-Herald.

Hilo Hospital Sees Big Drop In Patients — And Revenue — Amid Pandemic. Total admissions have shrunk by a third, causing a significant financial shortfall. Civil Beat.

Iconic Hawaiʻi Hotel Undergoes Enormous Tent Fumigation. Kamaʻaina Termite and Pest Control has completed one of the largest fumigations in the state of Hawaiʻi at the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui hair, nail salons welcome back clients with new safety measures in place. Salon owners say while beauty appointments may seem superficial in a time like this, the industry is important because when people feel good on the outside, they feel good on the inside. Hawaii News Now.

A county government’s acquisition of a private water delivery system for Maui’s drinking water may be delayed because of budget cuts resulting from the coronavirus outbreak. Maui County Water Director Jeff Pearson said his department had allocated $2.5 million to evaluate the Wailuku Water Co. water delivery system in a possible purchase. Associated Press.

Kauai

How to participate in council public hearings. While public meetings are physically closed to the public per an emergency rule by Gov. David Ige, the Kaua‘i County Council is offering another way for constituents to join in. Garden Island.

Economic rebuild recommendations offered. The Kaua‘i County Council heard about 45 economic-recovery recommendations from Mayor Derek Kawakami’s Kaua‘i Economic Recovery Strategy Teams last week, including how to support local businesses, the importance of communications, the need for broadband and improved infrastructure and the long-term need to diversify the economy. Garden Island.

Senate gives itself subpoena powers as Legislature, governor squabble over CARES money; Honolulu and Kauai reopen churches and restaurants; 22% unemployment is historic high, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Gov. David Ige press conference via Facebook live

Citing frustration with Ige administration, state Senate forms investigative committee. State senators have formed an investigative committee, saying they’re frustrated by a lack of transparency from Gov. David Ige’s administration during the pandemic crisis. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii lawmakers try to move COVID-19 relief money out of Ige’s reach. Simmering frustration between Gov. David Ige and the state Legislature approached the boiling point Thursday as lawmakers voted to move more than $1.3 billion into the state’s “rainy day” budget reserve fund — where lawmakers would control it — and the Senate authorized a committee to issue subpoenas to pry information loose from the administration. Star-Advertiser.

Ige’s Economic Chief Accuses Senators Of Harassment. Mike McCartney, director of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, refused to discuss the administration’s plan to revive the economy. Civil Beat.

Senate creates investigative committee with subpoena power. The Hawaii State Senate voted to give the Special Committee on COVID-19 subpoena powers today. KHON2.

Hawaii’s head of business and economic development declines to allow staff to testify before Senate committee. Mike McCartney, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, declined to have his staff testify today before a Hawaii Senate committee because of what he was said a “hostile” environment by lawmakers. Star-Advertiser.

Head of DBEDT claims Senate Ways and Means Committee meeting a 'hostile environment'. Mike McCartney, Head of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism refused to let his staff testify in front of the Senate Ways and Means Committee Thursday. KITV4.

Legislature Passes Budget Cuts But Will Be Back In June. The $1 billion spending reductions will now go to Gov. David Ige for his review. Civil Beat.

Hawaii lawmakers recess after addressing budget shortfall. Hawaii lawmakers on Thursday recessed after passing multiple funding bills designed to cope with the shock of the coronavirus pandemic that has hammered the state’s tourism-dependent economy. House and Senate leaders said they expected to reconvene around June 15 to continue their work. Hawaii News Now.

Without intervention, Hawaii government could run out of operating funds next year. Hawaii’s economic situation is so dire that state government could run out of operating funds by June 2021 if lawmakers and officials don’t find a way to slash expenses and increase tax collections. Star-Advertiser.

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Ige mulls lifting quarantine for interisland travel. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he’s considering lifting the 14-day mandatory quarantine currently in place for interisland air travelers, saying measures are pointing in the right direction to make this move. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Officials Consider Lifting Inter-island Travel Quarantine. During a Thursday news conference, top state officials talked about how "health measures are pointing in the right direction to make this move" to resume inter-island travel. Big Island Video News.

Plans to Lift Interisland Travel Quarantine Underway. Interisland travel is the next monumental item on the state’s coronavirus to-do list. Big Island Now.

Lifting Interisland Travel Quarantine is “Top-Of-Mind,” No Target Date Set. Currently both quarantines for out-of-state arrivals and interisland travel are in place through June 30th; however, Gov. Ige has noted that lifting the 14-day quarantine for interisland travel is top-of-mind. Maui Now.


Ige says state is taking ‘cautious’ approach as more businesses plan to reopen. The governor on Thursday urged residents to prepare for a moderate uptick in COVID-19 cases as the state continues to reopen in a “cautious” way. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s unemployment rate reaches historic high. According to the State Labor Department, April’s unemployment rate went up to 22 percent. This reflected the economic impact of COVID-19 in the state. KHON2.

Hawaii’s unemployment rate jumps to 22.3% amid pandemic. Hawaii’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate jumped to 22.3% in April, up from just 2.4% the previous month, as hotels, restaurants and retailers closed amid efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Desolate peak reached in Hawaii unemployment. Hawaii’s unemployment rate shot up to a really terrible level in April: a record 22.3%, or nearly 1 in 4 people in the state’s workforce. Star-Advertiser.

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DOH Says Its COVID-19 Testing Capacity Has ‘Increased Dramatically’. Bruce Anderson, director of the Department of Health, said the state now has the ability to perform up to 3,600 tests daily. Civil Beat.

Current Board of Education Member May Not Be Renominated. Two new boards members were confirmed by the full Senate Thursday, but the renomination of Kili Namauu has been stalled by the Senate Education Committee. Civil Beat.

Hawaii School Superintendent Gets ‘Effective’ Rating From Board. But the Board of Education scored the school chief poorly in areas like operations, resource and personnel management. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Reopened Its Civil Rights Office. But Investigations Are Still Stalled. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, the commission faced a growing backlog of cases. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s narrow eviction moratorium means not everyone is protected.  Evictions are on hold as part of Gov’s David Ige’s supplemental emergency proclamation — but only evictions for non-payment of rent. Hawaii News Now.

Anonymous donor surprises nearly 2K kupuna with free groceries at Hawaii Foodland stores. An anonymous donor surprised hundreds of Hawaii’s kupuna at all Foodland, Sack N Save and Foodland Farms stores statewide today by covering the full costs of their groceries. Star-Advertiser.

Two women defy Hawaii traveler quarantine, including one who got a job in Laie. Authorities have arrested a visitor to Hawaii who broke the state’s 14-day travel quarantine to slow the spread of COVID-19 and are working with another to get her back home. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 21: 4 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Hawaii and Maui counties collectively reported four new coronavirus cases. Civil Beat.

Virus cases identified in Hilo, South Kona. Four new cases of COVID-19 were reported Thursday — three on the Big Island, the other on Maui. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Fish Council Urges Trump To Open Marine Monuments To Fishing. This is the second time Wespac has asked the president to make it easier to fish in and around environmental sanctuaries. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Oahu restaurants and churches prepare to open their doors with social distancing rules in place. Oahu restaurants will be allowed to reopen for indoor dining on June 5 and churches will be able to resume in-person services with restrictions on Saturday under a new emergency order signed by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

City allows in-person spiritual services to resume on Oahu this weekend.  In-person spiritual services will once again be allowed starting Saturday, as long as worshippers follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks. Hawaii News Now.

In-Person Religious Services May Resume Saturday. You can pray together again, but keep a safe distance, the city says. Civil Beat.

Mayor Caldwell allows in-person spiritual services to resume this weekend. Come this weekend, churches on Oahu will be allowed to reopen. KITV4.

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Authorities Struggle To Enforce Quarantine On Vacation Rental Occupants. The City and County of Honolulu is not able to effectively enforce the mandatory 14-day quarantine on visitors staying in vacation rentals, according to one senior official. Hawaii Public Radio.

Honolulu Council Gets Another Open Meetings Violation. Adding items to meeting agendas after the deadline should be done “rarely, if ever,” the state said. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Is Testing Sewage To Watch For The Spread Of COVID-19. Oahu has begun testing sewage for COVID-19, hoping to get an early warning of outbreaks and increase consumer confidence as the island reopens. Civil Beat.

NOAA reminds holiday beachgoers to stay away from monk seal pup at Kaiwi coastline. A newly weaned Hawaiian monk seal might make an appearance around the Kaiwi coastline on Oahu over the Memorial Day weekend — a worrisome thought for those looking out for her. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Council finds money for golf, contingency funds in tight budget. Fees for sewers and rubbish disposal will continue to increase, taxes could rise for luxury second homes and services will be cut countywide, but County Council members still found room in the budget Thursday to add another $565,000 for their contingency accounts and golf subsidies. West Hawaii Today.

How to spend $80M: Kim outlines uses for COVID-19 response funds. Mayor Harry Kim had less than two days to submit a plan to the state Legislature, and now that SB 75 passed and is on its way to the governor, a plan is taking shape. West Hawaii Today.

San Buenaventura to seek Ruderman’s state Senate seat. State Rep. Joy San Buenaventura of Puna will seek the 2nd District Senate seat currently held by Russell Ruderman, who on Wednesday announced he would not run for re-election. Tribune-Herald.

Regents delay action on new Maunakea proposal. The University of Hawaii Board of Regents voted Thursday to postpone discussion of a new internal management structure for Maunakea governance until June. Tribune-Herald.

Public access to Waipio Valley will be closed. The Hawaii County Dept. of Public Works announced that public access to Waipio Valley will be closed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting Friday, May 22 through Monday, May 25. KHON2.

Maui

County officials detail reopening considerations. Some high-risk businesses get green light ahead of medium-risk ones. Maui News.

Colorado Woman Wanted for Quarantine Violation on Maui Agrees to Return Home. A Colorado woman wanted for allegedly violating the 14-day travel quarantine on Maui has voluntarily elected to return home to the mainland, according to Maui police. Maui Now.

Maui Unemployment Rate Highest in State at 36% in April. The Hawai‘i State Department of Labor & Industrial Relations today announced that the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for April was 22.3 percent. Maui Now.

Work Begins on 20 Temporary Emergency Shelters at Waiale Park in Wailuku. The County of Maui begins construction tomorrow, May 22 on an estimated 20 temporary emergency shelters at Waiale Park in Wailuku for displaced families and individuals impacted by COVID-19. Maui Now.

Kauai

Green light to reopen. Churches, salons, barber shops and outdoor-based tour companies on Kaua‘i can reopen today. Garden Island.

Kauai gets governor’s approval to reopen some ‘medium-risk’ businesses by Friday. Kauai has secured the governor’s approval to reopen a number of “medium-risk” businesses and public spaces Friday, including hair and nail salons, pools and fitness training. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai businesses get ready to reopen Friday. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami has gotten the go ahead from the governor to reopen medium risk businesses as soon as Friday. Many Kauai businesses say their phones have been ringing off the hook with customers since the announcement was made. KHON2.

Aloha overflowed out of the front entrance of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Regency & Spa Thursday afternoon when the resort’s General Manager Dan King and a band of volunteers welcomed back colleagues for a family-style meal pickup conducted within the parameters of social distancing and health safety guidelines created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Garden Island.

Ige unveils 4-phase Hawaii reopening plan, Maui to open hair salons, tax revenue down 1/3, famed Willie K dies, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Grocery shopping in the COVID-19 era ©2020 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige unveils four-phase reopening strategy for Hawaii’s economy. Gov. David Ige unveiled today a four-phase reopening strategy for Hawaii’s economy with the state gradually allowing medium-risk businesses such as churches, gyms, museums, theaters, restaurants and hair salons to begin operations in June. Star-Advertiser.

Reopening Hawaii, Governor Moves To “Act With Care” Phase. On Monday, Governor Ige presented his most thorough timeline on reopening the Hawaiʻi, starting with the Kamaʻāina Economy, in the era of COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Video News.

Governor outlines plan for reopening economy, extends traveler quarantine through June. The governor unveiled a four-phase plan for reopening Hawaii’s economy at a news conference Monday, announcing that “medium-risk" businesses and activities — from salons to theaters to restaurants — would be allowed to operate by the beginning of June with social distancing measures in place. Hawaii News Now.

Ige outlines reopening/recovery plan, extends 14-day quarantine for travelers. Gov. David Ige on Monday signed the 8th supplemental emergency proclamation, extending the 14-day quarantine for travelers arriving in the State of Hawaii, as well as for inter-island travelers through June 30. West Hawaii Today.

Gov. David Ige 8th Supplemental Proclamation: Extends 14-Day Travel Quarantine, Unveils State’s Roadmap to Recovery. Governor David Ige provided information on next steps for the state’s emergency orders as more businesses are added to the list under future phases and the 14-day travel quarantine for mainland and interisland travel is extended to the end fo June.  Gov. Ige has also extended the eviction moratorium under his 8th supplemental emergency proclamation. Maui Now.

Read full text of Gov. David Ige's Eighth Supplementary Proclamation here.

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Lawmakers Still Eyeing Vacant Positions To Fill State Budget Hole. Legislative leaders say they still aren’t ready to sign off on $1 billion in cuts to Hawaii’s budget. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker says Hawaii tax revenue down 1/3 in April. Hawaii tax revenue sank 33% in April compared to the same month a year earlier as the effects of the coronavirus pandemic spread, the chairman of the state Senate Ways and Means Committee said Monday. Associated Press.

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Ige Extends State, Inter-Island Travel Quarantines. Gov. David Ige on Monday announced the extensions of both the mandatory, 14-day travel quarantine for travelers arriving to Hawai‘i, as well as for those traveling between islands. Big Island Now.

Hawaii residents keep eye out for visitors who break quarantine. Many Hawaii residents have no qualms about helping law enforcement catch violators of the state’s 14-day self-quarantine, especially when it comes to visitors to the Aloha State. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. David Ige faces the dilemma of eventually reopening to both tourists and new infections. A combination of geography, a cooperative public and a two-week quarantine imposed on all travelers to the state has effectively squashed “the curve,” and Hawaii now has one of the lowest per capita infection rates in the nation. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawai‘i ‘Medium-Risk’ Businesses to Begin Reopening in June. Governor David Ige on Monday announced that “medium-risk” businesses in Hawai‘i will be allowed to reopen beginning June 1. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Updates: 70,000 Jobless Claims Pending; No New Cases; Facing Shortfall, State Borrows $600M. Hawaii Public Radio.

VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 18: No New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii has seen less than four new cases a day of the coronavirus in May. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii inmate early-release reviews are over. Hawaii judges have finished ruling on 1,088 motions to release incarcerated individuals early over COVID-19 risks, and not many more inmates were set free after 655 last month. Star-Advertiser.

Roth: Jail releases possibly more dangerous than outbreak. Letters by the Big Island’s prosecutor and a pair of Oahu legislators object to the manner in which inmates are being released pursuant to a state Supreme Court order that seeks to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19 in Hawaii’s jails and prisons. Tribune-Herald.

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Hawaii public schools offer online and in-person options for summer. Summer school will include some options for in-person instruction for students who struggled with distance learning this spring, including those in special education, schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto says. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Fishermen Are Stuck In Port As Federal Aid Falls Short. A lack of demand means lower prices and less incentive for Hawaii’s longline fleet, which is struggling to survive during a global pandemic. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Non-profit that served meals amid the pandemic shut down by state. The state Department of Health has ordered a charity that served hundreds of thousands of meals to shut down immediately citing numerous food-safety violations. Hawaii News Now.

Health Officials Order Free Meal Delivery Program To Stop Operations. Malama Meals, which delivers free meals on three islands, has been cited for temperature control and hand washing violations. Civil Beat.

Malama Meals gets cease-and-desist order. The state Department of Health’s Food Safety Branch has issued a cease-and-desist order to Ahmad Ramadan doing business as Malama Meals at 91-100 Farrington Highway. The operation was preparing and providing meals on Oahu, Kauai and Molokai. Star-Advertiser.

Malama Meals given cease and desist order for food safety violations. A program providing free meals to those in need has been ordered by the state to shut down. KHON2.

DOH targets Malama Meals. The state Department of Health on Monday issued a cease-and-desist order shutting down a program that flew hot, prepared meals from Honolulu to Kaua‘i, concluding that the organization violated six food safety standards. Garden Island.

Hawaii health officials cite Malama Meals for food safety violations. The Hawaii Department of Health said Monday that it issued a cease-and-desist order to the Malama Meals program over “multiple food-safety issues” found during an inspection last week, but the founder of the program that delivers meals to older adults isolated because of the Covid-19 orders said the violations were fixed on the spot and the program was never shut down. Pacific Business News.

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EMS paramedics and EMTs adapt to COVID-19 changes. During the last two months, Honolulu’s paramedics and emergency medical technicians have had to adapt to the changes COVID-19 has brought to the rest of the city — something they continue to do even now. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu salons and barbershops seek reopening date from City. Beauty professionals from across the state held a forum last week to create a set of guidelines for beauty salons, barbershops and even nail salons in preparation to reopen. KHON2.

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System issue causes dirty water for Kalani Iki, Waialae Iki residents. Residents in the Kalani Iki and Waialae Ikiki areas are being told not to drink or use the water for consumption purposes after a system issue was reported Monday. Hawaii News Now.

BWS responds to dirty water issue in East Oahu. Customers experiencing dirty water are advised not to use it for drinking, cooking, or brushing teeth. KHON2.

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Days before graduation, Damien Memorial School cancels its virtual ceremony. Damien Memorial School sent an email to seniors and their parents Monday afternoon saying Sunday’s virtual graduation ceremony is cancelled. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii's first contactless drive-in movie theatre comes to Kailua. It's happening this Wednesday at Pali Lanes in Kailua, featuring the film Dodgeball. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Kim reopens beaches. The only exceptions to the reopening are Hakalau Beach Park and Kuhio Kalanianaole Park, which have been closed due to repairs and improvements. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii County Beach Parks To Reopen. County officials announced on Monday that it will reopen its beach parks islandwide as soon as Governor David Ige gives his approval. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i County to Reopen All Beaches Tuesday, Assuming Approval From Governor. Barring unlikely circumstances, Hawai‘i County beaches will reopen islandwide beginning Tuesday. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island residents can once again enjoy the shorelines Tuesday. Hawaii County will reopen their beaches to residents on Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Big Island beaches and parks set to reopen on Tuesday. The County of Hawai‘i announced on Monday that it will reopen its beach parks islandwide effective May 19. KITV4.

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Peter Kubota Sworn In As New Circuit Court Judge For Hawaii Island. Kubota was sworn in as judge of the Circuit Court of the Third Circuit during a special session convened by the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court on May 15. Big Island Video News.

Maui

State and county races are looking competitive. Candidates pull papers in all Maui districts, though many yet to file. Maui News.

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Maui County hair and nail salons will reopen soon, but customers should expect changes. The rest of the state may have to wait for hair and nail salon services, but businesses in Maui County will be able to welcome customers back next Monday with new safety guidelines. Hawaii News Now.

Maui County hair and nail salons open May 25. Maui county set a date to reopen hair and nail salons. KHON2.

Hair and nail salons set to reopen on Maui next week. Hair and nail salons are beginning to reopen starting Monday, May 25 on Maui. KITV4.

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Recognize this woman? She’s wanted by MPD for allegedly breaking quarantine. Police say Ashley Ruth Degraaf, 31, landed on Maui on May 15 and signed off on agreeing to the rules. She indicated she would be staying at a hostel, but police were later informed she canceled her reservation. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaiian music legend Willie K dies at age 59 after 2-year battle with cancer. Hawaiian music superstar Willie K — a multi-Hoku Award-winning musician, vocalist, song writer and record producer — died Monday night at his home on Maui after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 59. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian music legend Willie K dies after lengthy lung cancer battle. Hawaii has lost music legend: Willie K. Born William Awihilima Kahaiali’i, many simply knew him as Uncle Willie. Hawaii News Now.

Willie K, legendary music star, has passed away. His family posted on his Instagram page that the music legend passed away Monday night, May 18 “surrounded by his ohana.” He was 59 years old. KHON2.

Hawaiian music icon Willie K has passed away. The Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winning musician and Maui native announced two years ago that he was battling lung cancer. KITV4.

Kauai

Steven Goble named new KFD chief. Close to two years since the search began, the Kaua‘i Fire Commission has chosen former Henderson, Nevada Fire Department Fire Chief Steven R. Goble to take the lead of the Kaua‘i Fire Department. Garden Island.

14,000 counted on the beach. Lifeguards reported 14,000 people on Kaua‘i beaches on reopening weekend and in a Monday public address, Mayor Derek Kawakami reminded people that they could again close if people don’t follow the rules. Garden Island.

Kapa‘a Sunshine Market opens. Lanipo Farms was one of more than a dozen vendors that braved the threatening weather to open the Kapa‘a Sunshine Market where face masks and other social distancing measures were in effect and monitored by staff from the county’s Office of Economic Development. Garden Island.

Raises nixed for top state officials, Honolulu plans to allow dine-in, modified lockdown to be extended through June, Ironman postponed, Maui fair canceled, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Capitol interior PC:Charles Freedman

Top State Officials Likely Won’t Get Pay Raises This Year. Gov. David Ige and his cabinet, state judges and lawmakers wouldn’t get pay raises this year under a proposal that won approval of a key panel of senators Thursday. Civil Beat.

Bill Seeks to Defer Salary Increases for Executive, Judicial, and Legislative Branches in Hawai‘i. The Senate Ways and Means Committee today approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. Maui Now.

House bill deferring salary bumps for gov’t officials move to second reading. The Senate Ways and Means Committee on May 14 approved House Bill 117 SD1, a bill to defer salary increases as recommended by the State Commission on Salaries for executive, judicial, and legislative government officials. KHON2.

Many government officials may not be getting a pay raise this fiscal year. On Thursday the Senate Ways and Means Committee approved a measure to defer pay increases for members of the Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches of government. KITV4.

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Gov. David Ige plans to extend Hawaii’s safer-at-home order through June 30. The governor said the state will consider reopening medium risk businesses as indoor dining restaurants, hair salons and barber shops. Star-Advertiser.

Governor says he’ll extend ’safer-at-home’ order through June, but lift more restrictions. Hawaii News Now.

Ige Wants To Extend Hawaii’s Travel Quarantine Through June. During a Facebook Live broadcast Thursday, Ige said he is looking to extend the quarantine, as well as the state’s “safer-at-home” mandate, through June. In the meantime, he and state officials will announce another round of businesses that may reopen and what kinds of activities may resume in the weeks to come. Civil Beat.

Governor To Extend “Safer-At-Home” Mandate Through June. Governor David Ige says he told the county mayors' that his intention is to extend the safer-at-home mandate through the end of June. Big Island Video News.

Governor Ige considering extending the 'safer at home' order until end of June. On Thursday afternoon Governor David Ige said he's considering extending his "Safer at Home" order until the end of June. KITV4.

Ige inclined to keep at-home order until June 30. Gov. David Ige said Thursday he’s inclined to extend his “safer-at-home” order through the end of June to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Associated Press.

Governor Ige: Hawai‘i’s “Safer-At-Home” Order Will Likely Be Extended Through End of June. Maui Now.

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Senator claims state dragging its feet on thermal screenings, mass testings at airports. Installing $20 million in thermal screening devices at Hawaii’s airports is a key part of re-opening the state’s tourism economy. But one state lawmaker said the devices won’t be available soon enough and he blames the state for the delays. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii officials pass the blame for loopholes in mandatory quarantine for incoming passengers. Hawaii’s plan for economic and community recovery and resilience hinges on collaboration, but city and state leaders are still fighting over who is to blame for loopholes in the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for incoming passengers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials told visitors not to come here on vacation, but some are doing it anyway. Even with tourism lockdowns in place, arguably the nation’s strictest, some of the visitors that came to Hawaii by air on Wednesday said they were coming for vacation. Star-Advertiser.

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Bolstering contact tracing. Hawai‘i state officials are doubling down on COVID19 contact tracing efforts, with a new training program from University of Hawai‘i and the Hawai‘i Department of Health. Garden Island

More than a dozen inmates granted early release amid pandemic have been re-arrested. Law enforcement authorities in Hawaii have re-arrested at least a dozen people who had been granted early release from jails because of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii to tap ‘Pandemic EBT’ program for an extra $25M in food aid. State officials plan to start a new program that will allow all families with children who receive free lunches at public schools to also get help from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, better known as food stamps. Star-Advertiser.

DOE Is Opening Up Classrooms This Summer For Some Students. The schools superintendent said in-person instruction will be reserved for students who are struggling with virtual learning. Civil Beat.

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Lt. Gov. Josh Green opening free medical clinic in Honolulu for those unemployed, uninsured due to coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii’s lieutenant governor is opening a free clinic to specifically treat the recently unemployed who have lost their health insurance due to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. governor, community doctor sets up Aloha Free Clinic to help the uninsured. Help is on the way for those whose health insurance benefits are about expire. KHON2.

Army of volunteers assembled to staff free health clinic for Hawaii’s newly uninsured. In addition to in-person visits, the free clinic plans to offer tele-medicine so providers can connect with patients living on neighbor islands. Hawaii News Now.

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No New COVID-19 Cases Reported In Hawaii. For two weeks, there have been fewer than six new cases reported each day. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i Reports Zero New COVID-19 Cases Thursday. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported zero new cases of COVID-19 Thursday for the second time since the pandemic began in the state, and actually reduced the case count from 638 to 637 statewide by lowering the out-of-state diagnoses from 11 to 10. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii sees large spike in applications for food stamps. That increase reversed a trend throughout the first three months of the year, when the number of SNAP recipients was consistently lower each month than in 2019. Tribune-Herald.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell wants to allow dining in at restaurants by June 5. Oahu residents could be sitting down in restaurants again on June 5. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is asking for the governor’s approval, and the governor seems to be open to the idea. KHON2.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell allows limited use of parks, religious activities. Mayor Kirk Caldwell extended his “safer-from-home” emergency order, with modifications, through June 30, and called for Gov. David Ige to allow indoor dining at Oahu restaurants starting June 5. Star-Advertiser.

Phase one of O'ahu re-opening kicks off Friday May 15. O'ahus retail shops and shopping malls have the green light to open at 12:01 am on Friday. KITV4.

Outdoor sports fields, courts in Honolulu to open with limitations. But with the threat of the virus still looming, some activities will not be enjoyed. KHON2.

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Oahu retailers make one final disinfecting sweep before opening doors to customers.  Merchants across Oahu have been sanitizing, posting social-distancing signs, and trying to figure out a new shopping normal. Hawaii News Now.

HART: Utility Work In Town Will Cost At Least $135M More Than Expected. Rail officials didn’t have a clear idea of how much the relocation work would cost when they awarded the contract to get it going. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Ironman postponed. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced Kailua-Kona’s biggest sporting event — the Ironman World Championship — to be postponed until 2021, an economic hit for Hawaii Island, which depends on the race bringing in thousands of visitors every year in the month of October. West Hawaii Today.

2020 IRONMAN World Championship In Kona Postponed Due To COVID-19. The World Championship has been rescheduled for February 6, 2021, but the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship has also been postponed with no date option determined. Big Island Video News.

IRONMAN Postpones World Championship Until February. For the first time in years, Kailua-Kona won’t host the IRONMAN World Championship in October. Big Island Now.

Maui

Home delivery, takeout of liquor is approved. Despite the majority of community testimony opposing takeout and home delivery for alcoholic drinks, the county Liquor Control Commission unanimously approved the measures during its meeting Wednesday in a boost for floundering restaurant owners. Maui News.

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COVID-19 forces cancellation of Maui Fair. The 98th Maui Fair has been postponed till next year due to concerns over the coronavirus pandemic, according to fair officials and Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui News.

Organizers agree to cancel Maui Fair at county’s request, just 5th time in history. Organizers today announced the 98th Maui Fair that was set for Oct. 1 to 4 has been called off at the request of the county due to the large crowds it attracts. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Fair CANCELED at Request of County Amid COVID-19 Health Concerns. The 98th Maui Fair, which was scheduled to take place over four days in October, is cancelled for this year due to public health concerns. Maui Now.

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$5.1B CIP budget focuses on projects that are ready to go. A Senate committee agreed Wednesday on a $5.1 billion capital improvement project budget that includes funding for Kaanapali Beach restoration, the widening of Puunene Avenue and other Maui County projects. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua‘i temprarily adds hunting days for COVID19 response. Kaua‘i hunters are invited to apply for special use permits to hunt goats, pigs, and deer on closed hunting days in State Forest Reserves, Natural Area Reserves, and Game Management Areas. Garden Island.

Suicides Of 4 Young Men In A Week Raise Alarm On Kauai. On Kauai, suicide is an old problem. But it’s gaining new urgency as the island grapples with a spate of tragic deaths during the coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.