Single-dose vaccine raises Hawaii's hopes, COVID-19 cluster at UH-Manoa, Love's Bakery closing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

Diamond Head lookout in pre-COVID days ©2021 All Hawaii News

Diamond Head State Monument to increase access next week. The Diamond Head State Monument will be open six days a week instead of four, starting next week, according to parks officials. Star-Advertiser. Hawaii News Now. KITV4.

New Single-Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Raises Hopes For Overall Effort. Lt. Gov. Josh Green said the new Johnson & Johnson vaccine could put Hawaii on the path to vaccinating most residents by early summer if delivery is ramped up. Civil Beat. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Now. Hawaii News Now. KHON2.

Next up for vaccinations in Hawaii is 70-and-older group. Hawaii health officials are preparing to open up COVID-19 vaccinations to those 70 and older around March 15 and start immunizing the 65-plus age group a couple of weeks later. Star-Advertiser.

School's back. After a year of pandemic distancing and nearly 180 lost in-person school days, tens of thousands of public school students could return to daily in-person classes soon. The state Department of Education’s target date is March 22 — just after spring break. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s economic damage assessment improves. Hawaii’s battered economy last year may not have been as bad as previously estimated, and recovery this year should be a bit stronger, a new state report says. Star-Advertiser. KITV4.

When Love’s Bakery shuts down at month’s end, 231 employees will be laid off. Love’s Bakery, a staple of Hawaii’s food industry for nearly 170 years, announced Monday that it will end operations at the end of this month and lay off all 231 employees. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat. Hawaii News Now. KHON2. KITV4.

The fight over the future of Hawaii's aerospace industry. Hawaii has a lot going for it, when it comes to aerospace development, including its location in the middle of the pacific. But research on rockets and innovation of high tech equipment can be costly and some state leaders feel that money should go elsewhere during this pandemic. KITV4.

Challenges Getting Small Farmers on State Ag Land. Small farmers on state-owned land agricultural lands, or the lack thereof, was a point of criticism by lawmakers at a recent public hearing on Hawaii's embattled Agribusiness Development Corporation. Hawaii Public Radio.

Remote Work Shows Only Modest Potential For Economic Impact So Far. Nearly one-quarter of U.S. workers did at least some part of their job remotely in January according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some remote workers are taking their newfound flexibility and relocating to Hawaii. Hawaii Public Radio.

Marijuana-related bills progressing in Legislature. Five bills related to marijuana remain alive in the state Legislature and will be heard in committee this week. West Hawaii Today.

March 1, 2021 COVID-19 Update: There were 29 new COVID-19 cases reported in Hawai‘i on Monday, including 17 on O‘ahu, eight on Maui, one on Hawai‘i Island, and three in Hawai‘i residents diagnosed out-of-state. Maui Now.

Oahu

Seven students at UH-Manoa test positive for COVID-19 in apparent cluster. Seven students who live at the University of Hawaii at Manoa have tested positive for the coronavirus since Thursday and been moved off campus for care and isolation, along with three close contacts. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Catch-and-release policies create revolving door of crime as pending cases pile up. Crime victims and witnesses fear suspects are growing more brazen, under a catch-and-release policy that many say has turned parts of Honolulu into lost and lawless zones. KHON2.

HPD sets quota for speed program, requiring officers to make more stops. Honolulu police officers who are participating in a speed enforcement grant program this month will have to pull over at least four drivers every hour. Hawaii News Now.

263 officers found to have claimed overtime, prompting HPD to develop program to track it. In a video statement published to YouTube, Honolulu Police Department Chief Susan Ballard commented on the latest findings from an investigation into possible overtime usage of HPD’s COVID-enforcement team. KHON2. KITV4.

Here’s What Happens When Social Workers, Not Police, Respond To Mental Health Crises. Honolulu lacks a crisis response team that can be dispatched immediately to address mental health crises and behavioral health issues. Civil Beat.

$70M in federal COVID-19 funds aimed at rail project. The city’s troubled rail project is expected to receive a badly needed infusion of $70 million in federal aid from the next round of COVID-19 federal stimulus that’s expected to be approved this weekend. Star-Advertiser. Civil Beat.

Downtown Honolulu eatery fined $4,000 for removal of red placard following mask violation. The state Health Department said it has fined Doner Shack in downtown Honolulu a total of $4,000 for removing a red “closed” placard posted at the eatery and for operating without a permit on three occasions. Star-Advertiser. KHON2.

Internships jump-start construction careers for Oahu students. The coronavirus pandemic has thrown off job prospects for many teenagers, but Hawaii’s construction industry is still buzzing along and seeking students for paid summer internships at job sites. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth releases ‘bare bones’ budget: Mayor’s first budget plan reflects cutbacks, uncertainty at Legislature. Faced with uncertainty and cutbacks at the state level, Mayor Mitch Roth on Monday released the first proposed budget of his term, described by staff as a “bare bones” plan as the county grapples with the fiscal aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii Wants To Give Away COVID-19 Tests, But Not For Big Island Airport Screening. The state Department of Health in January provided tests from its large stockpile for the Big Island program, credited by county officials as keeping case numbers low, but now says it’s not a suitable use. Civil Beat.

Fastest – and quickest – option preferred for Pohoiki ramp. Although the board of the Department of Land and Natural Resources discussed three options last week for restoring commercial ocean access in Puna, locals and lawmakers agree that there is only one option that makes sense. Tribune-Herald. Big Island Video News.

Gusty winds topple under-construction Waikoloa Plaza building. High winds with gusts upward of 50 mph lashed portions of the Big Island over the weekend, toppling at least one under-construction building in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

East Hawaii Cultural Center to put up fence to combat crime. The East Hawaii Cultural Center plans to fence its property after items were stolen from the nonprofit during a Feb. 14 burglary. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Kahului project would include housing and civic center. A state agency is looking to transform the lot across from the Maui Beach Hotel into a civic center with affordable housing units, a community center, government offices and the potential new home of the Kahului Public Library. Maui News.

Maui Health Vaccine Clinic Appointments Now Available on VAMS for Phase 1A and 1B. The VAMS portal can be accessed by all current VAMS registered Phase 1A and 1B qualified residents to make their first dose vaccination appointment. Maui Now.

Kauai

Ground broken for new $21 million gym at Kaua‘i High School. Plans for the new facility started back in the Gov. Linda Lingle administration when Rep. James Tokioka identified a Capital Priority Project and secured $14 million for the facility. Garden Island. KHON2.

Proposed DOTAX Kaua‘i reorganization. The state’s Department of Taxation plans to reduce staff and reorganize the Kaua‘i District Tax Office, eliminating some on-island services by the end of the year. Garden Island.

Hawaii Legislature convenes without pomp, federal recognition for Hawaiians back on the table, Honolulu mayor names chief of staff, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Taro farmers offer free cuttings at Capitol as Hawaii Legislature convenes PC: Ka Leo o Hawai'i via Facebook, Ethan Weil

State Legislature opens without the usual revelry. The coronavirus pandemic and the shock waves it has sent through the economy, as well as heightened security as a result of the Jan. 6 storming of the U.S. Capitol, combined to create somber, austere ceremonies as lawmakers gathered on Wednesday to kick off this year’s legislative session. Star-Advertiser.

New legislative session opens with little fanfare, lots to get done. State lawmakers started the new legislative session Wednesday, but there wasn’t much of the usual fanfare. Because of the ongoing pandemic, members of the public could not attend and plexiglass separated lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Legislature Launches ‘Laser Beam’ Session In A Locked Down Capitol. Traditional festivities and speeches were all canceled amid security concerns and the threat of COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Legislature Convenes Under Heightened Security Concerns. Although the state capitol has already been closed to the public for several months in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, that ban is now more physically apparent. Hawaii Public Radio.

State House seeks solutions to fill budget gap without tax hike. Although Hawaii faces a massive budget deficit, leaders of the state House of Representatives said Wednesday that they have no desire to raise taxes. Tribune-Herald.

State Senate faces funding shortfall while trying to prop up economy. State Senate leaders said after the Legislature reconvened Wednesday that two of the biggest challenges during the 2021 session will be to decide what can be funded and whether taxes will need to be increased in order to contend with Gov. David Ige’s proposed budget cuts. Tribune-Herald.

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Taro farming group makes peaceful splash at Hawaii Capitol amid inauguration security worries across country. A sizable security force that tried to be as low key as possible loomed over the Hawaii Capitol Wednesday as a taro farming sustainability group peacefully took center stage with 10,000 Hawaii state flags planted on the lawn, a band and the give-away of 10,000 taro plantings. Star-Advertiser.

Activists Rally At Capitol To Support Local Farmers. Participants handed out taro cuttings and called on lawmakers to invest in agriculture. Civil Beat.

Some are renewing a push for federal recognition of Native Hawaiians under Biden administration. The new administration is opening the door for federal recognition for Native Hawaiians, allowing greater self-determination and control similar to other Native American tribes. KITV4.

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Ige appointee called for his impeachment. Gov. David Ige’s appointee to the District 1 state Senate seat pushed for Ige’s impeachment less than a year and a half ago through a change.org petition she posted on her public Facebook page. West Hawaii Today.

Senator Appointed By Ige Had Called To Impeach Him. In a statement, Gov. David Ige said he knew about Sen. Laura Acasio’s background opposing the Thirty Meter Telescope when he appointed her. Civil Beat.

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Biden order to help Hawaii renters, but expert requests more assistance. Of the 17 executive orders that President Biden signed on his first day of office Wednesday, an extension on the federal moratorium on evictions until the end of March will have a large impact on Hawaii’s propped-up rental market. KHON2.

Stranded American Samoans Are Finally Going Home After A Hawaii Quarantine. Hawaii is helping to coordinate with a testing and quarantine center in Waikiki to facilitate the first repatriation effort since the pandemic began. Civil Beat.

LIST: How and where to get a COVID-19 vaccine in the state of Hawaii. KHON2.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 20: 75 New COVID-19 Cases And One Death. Hawaii health officials announced one death on Maui and 75 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, including 50 on Oahu, 14 on Maui, four on the Big Island, one on Kauai and six residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Sam Moku, Hawaii Pacific athletic director, to serve as Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s chief of staff. Hawaii Pacific University announced today that senior administrator Sam Moku will leave the university at the end of the month to become Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi’s chief of staff. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Mayor Hires HPU Athletics Director As Chief Of Staff. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced on Wednesday that he has selected Sam Moku to be his chief of staff. Civil Beat.

Mayor Blangiardi picks HPU athletic director as Chief of Staff. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi has announced his new Chief of Staff. Blangiardi selected HPU Athletic Director Sam Moku to fill the key role. Hawaii News Now.

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Longtime Honolulu fire chief Neves to retire. Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves announced Wednesday he will retire Feb. 28 after 42 years of servi­ce — eight years as chief, holding the position longer than 14 of his predecessors. Star-Advertiser.

After 8 years on the job, Honolulu’s fire chief to retire next month.  After eight years on the job, Honolulu Fire Chief Manuel Neves has announced he will retire in February. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Stadium: Meetings seek public comment. Two virtual community meetings on the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District next week highlight the final two weeks of the public comment period on the project’s Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Star-Advertiser.

Most city surveillance cameras in Chinatown are broken ― and won’t be fixed. The cameras and infrastructure are obsolete so broken pieces cannot be repaired. They have to be replaced. The city’s technology department, which maintains the equipment, previously estimated a new system would cost about $200,000. Hawaii News Now.

KITV4 Island News announces new owner: Allen Media Broadcasting. Allen founded Entertainment Studios in 1993 and has a growing portfolio of media companies, including 17 broadcast television stations across the country. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Big Island mayor released from hospital 11 days after heart attack. In addition to the stent surgeons implanted hours after the 56-year-old mayor was stricken on Jan. 9, Roth on Tuesday had a procedure to install an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Roth Released From Hilo Medical Center. On Tuesday, doctors implanted a pacemaker and defibrillator into Mayor Roth, after his January 9th heart attack. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Roth Released from HMC. Mayor Mitch Roth was released from Hilo Medical Center this afternoon in good health after suffering a heart attack earlier this month. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth discharged from hospital after heart attack. Hawaii News Now.

Waipio Valley Residents Still Seek A Deal Limiting Foot Traffic On Dicey Road. The Hawaii County Council deferred action on a bill to ban most pedestrians on the Waipio Valley Road, but residents believe a compromise may be near. Civil Beat.

Maui

Andrew Martin Appointed Maui Prosecuting Attorney. Mayor Michael Victorino today announced his appointment of Andrew Martin as Maui County prosecuting attorney. Martin’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Maui County Council. Maui Now.

Gym members mask up for new rules. New rules that went into effect on Tuesday limit business capacity to 30 percent and require gyms, yoga studios and similar fitness venues to ensure participants wear masks at all times, whether indoor or outdoor. Maui News.

Kauai

Survey: over 4K furloughed employees will lose health insurance. According to a recent survey of Kaua‘i businesses, 49% of respondents stated that their business will not survive more than 90 days without the significant return of tourism. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i celebrates Biden/Harris inauguration. Pockets of local inauguration celebrations joined the national event that took place in Washington, DC as President Joe Biden became the 46th president of the United States. Garden Island.

Military important economic driver amid pandemic, coronavirus cases spike as vaccinations delayed, new restrictions on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pohakuloa Training Area ©2021 All Hawaii News

State report highlights defense sector importance. As the second largest sector of the state’s economy, military-procurement spending generated $4.5 billion in economic impact last year, with $2.3 billion in federal contracts throughout the state, helping to sustain more than 30,000 jobs statewide. Garden Island.

EPA: Hawaii’s Military Bases Dumped 630,000 Pounds Of Toxic Nitrate Into The Ocean. While federally permitted, the Environmental Protection Agency hopes the data’s public release spurs facilities to reduce their chemical waste. Civil Beat.

Contractor Sentenced In Army Corruption Scheme In Hawaii. John Winslett bribed Army officials with cash, cars and guns to win lucrative construction contracts in Hawaii, Justice Department said. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii Tourism Authority spent ‘exorbitant’ amounts marketing to visitors as lockdowns dropped demand. For the 2020 fiscal year, HTA estimated the cost per arrival for every U.S. visitor was $7.13, up more than 118% from the prior year. The cost per arrival for Japan during fiscal year 2020 was significantly higher at $17.17, a nearly 201% increase. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers face tough choices amid pandemic recession. Cut spending, raise taxes or perhaps both. Hawaii lawmakers face tough choices as they convene a new legislative session this week amid a pandemic that has pummeled tourism, the state’s biggest industry, and depleted tax revenue. Hawaii News Now.

Despite weekend protests rumors, Hawaii’s Capitol was quiet Sunday. Bracing for large, unruly crowds, state officials put up barricades and fences around the Hawaii State Capitol, and beefed up security. But the effort seemed to be precautionary as there was a significant absence of crowds and protestors over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Noncommercial fishing is booming during pandemic. Hawaii is the only coastal state that doesn’t require fishers to have a noncommercial marine fishing license, which could provide information about how many noncommercial fishers there are in Hawaii and how many fish they’re taking from the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers May Cut Solar Credits. The credits help to develop renewable energy projects but also cost the state millions of dollars. Civil Beat.

Farmers to petition lawmakers Opening Day. This past year, the pandemic has led to a rise in people in Hawaii beginning to grow their own produce and start sustainable farming. KITV4.

Isle cattle ranchers invited to join grass-fed beef venture. Hawaii’s largest ranch and an investment firm partner are looking for other local ranch operators to join a grass-feed beef production venture. Star-Advertiser.

Previously unknown cause is found for mysterious snorkeling deaths in a new Hawaii study. Rapid onset pulmonary edema was not previously associated with snorkeling, which has been implicated in 206 Hawaii drownings — 189 involving visitors — from 2009 to 2018, according to the state Department of Health. During that period, snorkeling-related drownings nearly doubled in what officials called an “alarming” rise. Star-Advertiser.

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Fast clip of coronavirus spread in Hawaii puts state at risk of another outbreak. Hawaii is at risk of another COVID-19 outbreak with the worst effective reproduction rate for infections in the nation after Washington state. Star-Advertiser.

Congresswoman Concerned About Hawaii Pandemic Response Got No Answers From Ige. Five months after a California congresswoman asked Hawaii for answers about its public health response and its spending of federal money, Gov. David Ige hasn’t provided her with any information. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers to Take a Hard Look at Correctional System After COVID-19 Hits 46 Percent of Inmates. State lawmakers are taking a hard look this session at some of the long-standing issues contributing to the spread of the coronavirus in Hawaiʻi’s jails and prisons. Hawaii Public Radio.

Blood bank is looking for COVID survivors. The Blood Bank of Hawaii is looking for more people who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate their convalescent plasma — the liquid part of the blood that contains antibodies to the new coronavirus — to help treat those who are hospitalized. Star-Advertiser.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 17: 132 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii has seen a triple-digit increase in cases for 13 straight days. Hawaii health officials reported 132 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Sunday, including 86 on Oahu, 29 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Kauai and nine residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The state’s first mass vaccination site opens Monday, Jan. 18, at Honolulu Harbor Pier 2. Hawaii Pacific Health said nearly 600 people have signed up for Monday and the rest of the week is booked with appointments. KHON2.

Community vaccination sites to open to essential workers and those 75 years and older. Mass vaccinations for the public are scheduled to begin on Monday. KITV4.

Waikiki Shell to be used in effort to return stranded American Samoa residents home. The state of Hawaii and the City and County of Honolulu have begun assisting about 800 American Samoan residents, who are traveling through Oahu en route to their previously shuttered island home. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki Shell parking lot to assist in American Samoa repatriation efforts. The City and County of Honolulu is joining the state’s efforts to help bring an estimated 800 American Samoa residents back home. KHON2.

Polynesian Cultural Center reopening with limited capacity and activities as officials look ahead to tourism recovery. The Polynesian Cultural Center, a cornerstone of Laie and an economic magnet for the North Shore community, is set to reopen Monday following a 10-month-long closure — one of that last major attractions on Oahu to welcome back visitors after Hawaii tourism was shut down in March due to the corona­virus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Plans for 2 more Ward towers set for review. A state agency regulating development in Kakaako has scheduled public hearings in March to consider plans for developing two more condominium towers at Ward Village. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth says he’s ‘very hopeful’ following heart attack. The 56-year-old Roth, the former county prosecutor who was elected mayor in November and inaugurated on Dec. 7, had been in office just over a month when he was stricken. Tribune-Herald.

Gas use down 18%, County highway fund takes a hit from less driving. In all, drivers used about 18% less gasoline during a pandemic year that translated to fewer commutes and fewer tourists. It also translated to less money for road repair. West Hawaii Today.

High court denies writ to Honua Ola, appeal of PUC decision still active. The state Supreme Court on Thursday denied Honua Ola Bioenergy’s request to order the Public Utilities Commission to reconsider its denial of a requested waiver of the competitive bidding process used in the sale of electricity. Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa development up for review: Council Planning Committee to hear rezoning application. A plan to develop a 36-unit housing complex, some units classified affordable, along with eight commercial lots in Waikoloa Village will be taken up by the County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday after a negative recommendation from the Leeward Planning Commission and the Planning Department under the prior administration. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Vaccination Clinic Temporarily Closes Due To Shortage. All appointments scheduled through Feb. 7 have been canceled. Civil Beat.

Delayed shipment closes Maui vaccination clinic to first doses. Only second doses available at both local Moderna, Pfizer sites. Maui’s only vaccination clinic taking new registrations announced Saturday it will have to close for a week due to a shortage of Pfizer-BioNTech doses that were slated to come from the state. Maui News.

Vaccine Distribution Delay Prompts Temporary Suspension of New Appointments for First Doses at Maui Hospital. Maui Health, which runs the vaccination clinic at the Maui Memorial Medical Center, has also postponed appointments for individuals that were seeking a first dose and had already secured an appointment between Jan. 17 and Feb. 7. Maui Now.

Thousands of vaccinations on Maui pushed back due to shipment delay. Maui Health's clinic is pushing back between 300 and 400 slots a day over the next three weeks after the state notified the company Friday evening it will not be receiving its expected shipment of doses for this weekend and next week. KITV4.

Retailers, gyms face tighter restrictions. Large and small retail establishments will be restricted to 30 percent capacity starting at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, the latest in a series of rule changes aimed at slowing a spike in COVID-19 cases on Maui, county officials announced Friday. Maui News.

Maui County’s state lawmakers say proposed state budget is ‘fluid’. Furloughs and program cuts depend on what federal aid is available. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai employment suffers under restrictive travel policies. Travel to Kauai plummeted after Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami opted out of the Safe Travels program, effective Dec. 2, requiring all travelers to Kauai to undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine with no option to test out. Star-Advertiser.

Paid positions available in youth conservation program. Kupu, Hawai‘i’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit organization, recently announced that applications are now being accepted for this summer’s Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps program on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Security ramped up at government buildings, Proud Boy leader out on bond, mass coronavirus vaccination centers planned on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii stepping up security at state Capitol and all government buildings. Gov. David Ige said Monday that Hawaii’s law enforcement agencies are taking appropriate steps to ensure security at the state Capitol and all government buildings after the FBI issued a warning that armed protests are possible at state capitols across the country in the days leading up to President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii ‘Proud Boy’ Released From Custody, Still Faces Charge In DC. Nicholas Ochs is a self-professed member of a violent, far-right extremist organization that stormed the U.S. Capitol along with other supporters of President Donald Trump. Civil Beat.

Judge grants bond for ‘Proud Boys Hawaii’ founder. The founder of “Proud Boys Hawaii” accused of unlawfully entering the U.S. Capitol building in connection with Wednesday’s siege was released from federal custody today. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Grants Release For Hawaii Proud Boys Leader Charged In Capitol Insurrection. The Hawaii man arrested in connection with last week's armed riot at the U.S. Capitol made his first appearance in federal court today and was released on bail. Hawaii Public Radio.

“Proud Boys Hawaii” leader released on bond, not allowed to travel out of Oahu for alleged involvement in US Capitol riot. Nicholas Ochs, the founder of Proud Boys Hawaii, has been released from custody. KHON2.

Federal judge grants Hawaii Proud Boys leader release from prison, restricts travel. One of the people in custody for their involvement in last week's riot at the nation's Capitol, Nick Ochs -- the founder of the Hawaii Proud Boys, made his first appearance before a federal judge Monday. KITV4.

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Effort to expand local share of Hawaii's military spending. While Hawaii's tourism industry was hit hard during the pandemic, the state's second largest sector of the economy is going strong. Now some want even more effort to draw in defense spending. KITV4.

Hawaiʻi Tech Workers Earn a Median $79,040 Per Year. Hawaiʻi employs 10,890 tech workers who earn a median annual wage of $79,040, which is 78 percent more than the median annual wage for all occupations in Hawaiʻi at $44,400, according to researchers at Spanning, a company that provides backup and recovery for software applications. Maui Now.

DOE finds a way to spare hundreds of teaching positions, but hundreds more at risk. Education Department officials have revised downward the number of teaching positions that will to be slashed amid the ongoing fiscal crisis. But even the rosier picture calls for hundreds of jobs lost. Hawaii News Now.

New legislation could be coming to stop illegal fireworks from entering the state. State lawmakers say they have gotten calls from constituents since November asking for something to be done to stop them from going off through all hours of the night. KHON2.

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Local leaders step up to protect children from human trafficking. January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Child and Family Service say families seeking help for sex abuse has increased since the pandemic by about 20%. Hawaii News Now.

Local officials and nonprofits remind public of the dangers of human trafficking. Monday is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. KHON2.

Human trafficking, sexual violence cases triple amid pandemic. According to John Tobon, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Honolulu, the human trafficking industry amasses $150 billion in global profits annually. KITV4.

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ACLU Urges State To Allow At-Risk Inmates To Be Vaccinated Early. Inmates and staff at correctional facilities are being infected at a higher rate than anyone else. Civil Beat.

ACLU calls for prisoner vaccinations. The American Civil Liberties Union Hawaii is urging the state to make sure inmates are included in its vaccination plan. KITV4.

Green: Hawaii ‘doing OK’ despite recent COVID-19 surge. Although the number of COVID-19 cases statewide is still in triple-digit territory amid a post-holiday surge, case counts seem to be on the decline. Tribune-Herald.

Vaccine data added to DOH dashboard. The state Department of Health has added information on the number of COVID-19 vaccinations administered in Hawaii to its online data portal. Maui News.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 11: 172 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 172 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Monday, including 108 on Oahu, 33 on Maui, 20 on the Big Island, one on Kauai and 10 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mass vaccination centers planned on Oahu to administer COVID-19 doses. Health officials are hoping to administer as many as 100,000 shots this month and up to 150,000 doses monthly in February, March, April and May. Star-Advertiser.

State finalizing plan to launch 2 mass vaccination sites in Honolulu. The state is finalizing a plan to launch two mass vaccination sites in Honolulu ― one at Pier 2 and the other at the Neal Blaisdell Center, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said. Hawaii News Now.

Mass COVID-19 vaccinations for Phase 1B expected to start next Monday. KHON2.

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Blangiardi to hold off on tier changes as COVID-19 cases surge. Honolulu’s new mayor will hold off on any changes to the tier system, after a surge in new COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. KHON2.

Comments sought on Waikiki beach stabilization. A plan is moving forward to keep Waikiki’s existing beaches from disappearing and create a “new” beach near the shoreline of the Halekulani Hotel, which has been devoid of dry sand for years. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council committee to consider resolution in support of Dillingham Airfield. A Honolulu City Council committee will consider a resolution Tuesday introduced by Heidi Tsuneyoshi asking the state to work with “interested parties” including legislators, business groups and the Army “to ensure the continuance of general aviation” at Dillingham Airfield. Star-Advertiser.

Dillingham Airfield Still Set to Close in June. With unemployment in Hawaii at some of the highest levels in the country, a group of local business owners are pushing back on a state plan to end commercial operations at Oahu’s Dillingham Airfield. Hawaii Public Radio.

DHHL chair says Kapolei casino would be built on land not zoned for homes.  Defending gambling at the state capitol Monday, the chairman of the Hawaiian Home Lands program was peppered with questions from lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Host company sold to private investors. Some wealthy local and mainland investors have bought financially struggling kamaaina candy maker Hawaiian Host Group. Star-Advertiser.

Pet adoption on the road: Humane Society to launch mobile services van. The Hawaiian Humane Society is preparing to launch their new mobile adoption center which will bring animals in need of home out to the community. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth remains hospitalized after heart attack. Mayor Mitch Roth remained hospitalized Monday at Hilo Medical Center after suffering a heart attack Saturday evening in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Roth Recovering at HMC After Suffering a Heart Attack. Mayor Mitch Roth remains at Hilo Medical Center where he is recovering after suffering a heart attack on Saturday evening in South Kohala. Big Island Now.

Kern seeks ethics opinion: Planning director to address Board of Ethics on Wednesday. Planning Director Zendo Kern is seeking guidance from the Board of Ethics on potential conflicts of interest in his duties directing the operations of the Planning Department. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo chancellor responds to criticism from Faculty Congress. The University of Hawaii at Hilo Faculty Congress has criticized Chancellor Bonnie Irwin’s tentative budget cut plans as the university faces a potential $5.7 million reduction. Tribune-Herald.

More than 150 residents, staff vaccinated for COVID-19 during Regency at Hualalai clinic. CVS Pharmacy administered the first dose of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to 114 residents and 49 team members, said Executive Director Stephen Hicks. West Hawaii Today.

Organizers: ’Unmasked flash mob’ canceled. An “unmasked flash mob” planned Saturday at the new Kailua-Kona Safeway has been called off, organizers said Monday evening. West Hawaii Today.

New Penn gym could be open by August. Construction to convert the old Hilo Lanes bowling alley property into a commercial center continues, despite the coronavirus pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Approximately Three Dozen People Turned Away from Maui Drive-In Vaccination Clinic, Invited to Return on Wednesday. Out of the 750 people who showed up for the clinic, Maui District Health Officer, Dr. Lorrin Pang said 90 percent were from outside the clinic’s priority group, which was still attempting to finish vaccinations for those in the 1A priority grouping (which includes health care workers and long-term care facility residents). Maui Now.

Maui Health expands COVID-19 vaccine clinic to additional CDC phases. Maui Health is expanding their COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic to include Hawaii residents that fall within the CDC identified Phase 1A and Phase 1B vaccine prioritization timeline. KITV4.

Officials hopeful holiday surge is over, Maui asks for modifications to current rules after spike in cases. Maui continues to report double digit case numbers after a cluster broke out at the Harbor Lights Condominium Complex in Kahului in December. To date, there have been 97 cases reported in the county. KHON2.

Maui County Officials: “Closing Business Will Not Solve the Problem of Community Spread”. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino has requested the approval of new rules for the County of Maui as the number of new COVID-19 cases remain elevated.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Vaccine rollout for educators begins. Groups vaccinated this week include front-line essential workers, including teachers and staff at schools, preschools and daycares, those working in food or agricultural settings, grocery stores, postal workers and residents of small care homes. Garden Island.

Kauai teachers and child care workers are first in the industry to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. On Monday, more than 500 people registered for a shot. KITV4.

Kupuna over 75 can sign up for vaccines. Hospitals around the island are equipping to vaccinate kupuna over 75 beginning this Friday, Jan. 15. Garden Island.

Utah man arrested not once, but twice for violating Kauai’s traveler quarantine. To date, Kauai officials say police have made 192 arrests of quarantine violators. All individuals who are arrested are subject to up to one year in jail and/or up to $5,000 in fines. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai Realtors See Uptick In People Buying Houses Sight-Unseen. Relocations to Kauai from the mainland have become so common that it’s hard to drive more than a few miles on the island without seeing multiple out-of-state license plates. Civil Beat.

Hawaii hospitals could reach capacity in 6 weeks, Kapiolani nurses vote to strike, Proud Boy in court today for role in Capitol riot, coronavirus vaccinations may not be finished until Labor Day, Big Island mayor hospitalized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green administers coronavirus vaccine Dec. 29, 2020 PC:from Facebook

Hawaii Hospitals to Reach Capacity in Six Weeks if Cases Continue to Surge. The holiday surge of COVID-19 cases the state was bracing for has started. Hospitals are expected to be heavily affected in the coming weeks. Hawaii Public Radio.

State releases latest COVID vaccine plan. Hawaii health officials expect the COVID-19 vaccine to be available to all residents by the end of this summer once the top three priority groups are taken care of. Maui News.

DOH: Over 35,000 COVID-19 vaccines administered statewide. As of Friday, health officials said 91,700 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been received by the state — 54,600 of those being the Pfizer-BioNTech brand, and 37,100 of the Moderna vaccine. So far, over 35,000 vaccinations have been administered statewide. Hawaii News Now.

Blood Bank of Hawaii asks COVID-19 survivors to donate plasma to help save lives. Only about 200 of the more than 23,000 residents who've tested positive for COVID-19 have donated their plasma, which has antibodies that can help save other patients. KITV4.

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Nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children have voted to authorize a strike about six months into bargaining for a new contract in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

After unsuccessful negotiations, nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center vote to strike. The nurses of Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted to authorize a strike amid their ongoing negotiations with the hospital, the Hawai’i Nurses Association said Sunday. Hawaii News Now.

What would the impacts be if nurses strike at Kapiolani Medical Center? A total of 93 percent of nurses at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children voted to authorize a strike against the hospital forcing the big question: what happens next and how will this impact the community during a pandemic. KHON2.

Kapiolani Medical Center nurses vote to authorize strike, CEO commits to reach a fair agreement. The nurses of Kapi‘olani Medical Center for Women and Children have voted by a 93% margin to authorize a strike. KITV4.

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Hawaii lawyer anticipates release of his client seen in mob that stormed U.S. Capitol. The lawyer for Proud Boys Hawaii founder and Capitol riot participant Nick Ochs said he expects his client will be released from jail this week. Hawaii News Now.

“Proud Boys Hawaii” leader to appear in federal court for alleged involvement in US Capitol riot. “Proud Boys Hawaii” leader and former political candidate Nicolas Ochs is scheduled to virtually “appear” in federal court on Monday, Jan. 11, after being arrested by the FBI for his alleged involvement in the US Capitol riot. KHON2.

Hawaii Proud Boy Charged By DOJ After Raiding US Capitol. Nicholas Ochs, a state House candidate and outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump, was an “easy target” for the feds, his attorney says. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Proud Boys Leader Arrested In Connection With Capitol Riot. Nicholas Ochs was apprehended by federal authorities in Hawaii after a warrant for his arrest was issued by a federal judge in Washington DC. Hawaii Public Radio.

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A rise in coronavirus cases on the West Coast could mean fewer travelers visiting the islands. As Hawaii tries to claw its way out of the worst economic decline in decades, California is a key to the revival of tourism. California is the source- market for most of visitors. Star-Advertiser.
Federal labor department to investigate Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. The Federal Department of Labor is opening two investigations into Hawaii’s unemployment insurance system. One investigation centers around a Legal Aid allegation of discrimination because of nationality or citizenship, while the other is part of a nationwide investigation of fraud and verification procedures. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii businesses fear unemployment tax increases will ruin their economic recovery. Local businesses are bracing for at least a tripling of their unemployment taxes, which without legislative intervention they say would disrupt any statewide economic recovery. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii bankruptcies fell in 2020 despite pandemic. The number of bankruptcy cases ended up plunging 8.6% to 1,524, according to data released last week from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Defense spending ‘incredibly important’ for Hawaii during COVID-19 pandemic. Defense spending in Hawaii — about $5 billion annually in payroll and $2 billion-plus in contracts — has been “an incredibly important stabilizing force” in the state with an economy otherwise wracked by COVID-19, Carl Bonham, executive director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, said Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Gaps In Hawaii Eviction Moratorium Leave Some Renters Scrambling For Housing. The state eviction moratorium doesn’t protect every renter. And being kicked out when you’re unemployed makes finding housing much harder. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Teachers Get Their Turn To Receive COVID-19 Vaccines. Teachers on Kauai can start receiving COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as Monday, while those elsewhere in Hawaii will be able to get them by the end of the month into early February, the state teachers’ union said Friday. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 10: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 200 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Sunday, including 128 on Oahu, 30 in Maui County, 12 on the Big Island, nine on Kauai and 21 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

With triple-digit case spikes, Mayor Blangiardi focuses on how to move the city forward. Despite the steady increase in cases, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the island will remain in Tier 2 for now. Oahu’s current 7-day average daily cases is 124 and a 4.4 percent. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Police Spent $150,000 In CARES Funds On A Robot Dog. Flush with CARES Act cash, the Honolulu Police Department has spent millions on what one officer called toys. Civil Beat.

Reluctant to go; just a few regrets, Mayor Kirk Caldwell says. Kirk Caldwell handed the keys to the third-floor corner office at Honolulu Hale to incoming Mayor Rick Blangiardi on Jan. 2 — with only a few regrets but not just a little reluctance. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm unveils 100-day plan Tuesday. Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm will be unveiling his 100-day plan to reform the Department of the Prosecuting attorney on Tuesday. KHON2.

Longtime Rail Officials Ousted As New CEO Joins HART. Bill Brennan and Joyce Oliveira were two of the longest-serving employees at a tumultuous agency that’s seen heavy turnover. Civil Beat.

Another case of COVID-19 confirmed in a city bus operator. The city said a bus driver tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

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Legislators step into conflict between University of Hawaii and Aloha Stadium. Some legislators say they haven’t closed the door on the Stadium Authority finding a pathway for the University of Hawaii football team to play at crumbling Aloha Stadium and are urging the parties to find common ground. Star-Advertiser.

Replacement work avoids funding halt at Aloha Stadium. A state agency has sidestepped what could have been a costly halt in a long- running effort to have a private developer redevelop Aloha Stadium and surrounding state land in Halawa. Star-Advertiser.

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Wahiawa solar farm divides community over food vs. fuel. A developer is proposing a solar farm near Wahiawa that could reduce electricity bills for 1,100 area households, but the project site on fallow prime farmland has drawn community opposition. Star-Advertiser.

Miske Case Weaves Together Disparate Strands Of Past Crimes. As information comes out in the case of alleged crime boss Michael J. Miske Jr., it looks like the gang was operating in plain sight. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pains. Roth, 56, who was elected in November, went to North Hawaii Community Hospital, was later transported to the Hilo Medical Center, where he was treated and had a stent implanted, according to a county news release. Star-Advertiser.

Roth hospitalized with chest pains: Stent implanted, now under medical evaluation. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening. West Hawaii Today.

Doctors Evaluating Mayor Roth After Hospitalization. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the hospital overnight, and is being evaluated by doctors following a medical procedure. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Hospitalized After Emergency Stent Placement. Hawai‘i County Mayor Mitch Roth was hospitalized over the weekend with chest pains. Big Island Now.

Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth taken to North Hawaii Community Hospital Saturday night. Big Island Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital in the evening on Saturday, Jan. 9 for what he described as discomfort in his chest. KHON2.

Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized with chest pain. Mayor Mitch Roth was being evaluated by doctors and Managing Director Lee Lord has taken over as acting mayor after Roth had a stent implanted after suffering chest pain Saturday evening, according to a news release Sunday morning. Associated Press.

Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth hospitalized for chest discomfort. Hawaii Island Mayor Mitch Roth has been taken to the hospital, according to county officials. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Roth taken to hosptial, Lee Lord acting mayor. Mayor Mitch Roth was taken to the North Hawaii Community Hospital last night with discomfort in his chest. KITV4.

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Public unhappy over lack of access: Pandemic, technology and tension during long council session. A heavy and sometimes controversial agenda, coupled with technical problems during a global pandemic, brought a new set of challenges to the County Council last week, during a meeting that saw testifiers grumble about lack of access and a mayor appear to step outside his lane to advise council members on Sunshine Law issues. West Hawaii Today.

Pandemic does little to slow down Big Island home sales. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, home sales on Hawaii Island in 2020 increased from the previous year — the only island in the state where that occurred. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

COVID-19 Surge Is Largely Blamed On Holiday Gatherings. Officials point to holiday-related gatherings including an outbreak at a condo complex that was believed to have started with a choir practice. Civil Beat.

Harbor Lights cluster reaches 92 COVID cases. The COVID-19 cluster at the Harbor Lights condominium complex is now up to 92 cases, with more testing to continue, a county official and a Harbor Lights representative said on Friday. Maui News.

King, panel to discuss COVID-19 rise on Maui. Maui County Council Member Kelly King will host a virtual town hall from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday to discuss the recent surge of COVID cases on Maui and the county’s response to the pandemic. Maui News.

Councilmember King to Host Town Hall Webinar on COVID-19, Jan. 11. In response to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Maui County community, Maui County Councilmember Kelly King of South Maui will host a virtual town hall webinar on Monday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. Maui Now.

Sun rises on new sunscreen era. For eco-friendly sunscreen makers like Maui’s Jenna Davis, Hawaii’s new law banning sunscreens with coral-harming chemicals couldn’t have come at a better time — and the pandemic couldn’t have come at a worse moment. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai utility, AES propose dual-energy project. Kauai’s nonprofit electric utility cooperative anticipates boosting its renewable-energy production by 25% with a proposed hydro and solar electricity project. Star-Advertiser.

Solar-hydro project moves forward. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative signed agreements with The AES Corporation for the development, construction and operation of the cooperative’s solar-pumped, storage hydro project, also known as the West Kaua‘i Energy Project. Garden Island.

Meeting set for Hanalei base yard projects. The County of Kaua‘i invites the public to participate in a virtual public meeting regarding the Hanalei base yard office and garage project. Garden Island.

Pearl Harbor anniversary commemorated virtually, Hawaii County swears in new mayor, secrecy surrounds Honolulu rail partnership plan, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Navy Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Adm. John Aquilino speaks during a ceremony Monday to mark the 79th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

79th Pearl Harbor attack observance marked by COVID-19 caution. At 7:55 a.m. Monday, the approximate time when Japanese warplanes dropped out of the sky in a shocking attack on Oahu, a moment of silence was held at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in a coronavirus-reduced 79th anniversary of the moment that launched America into World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Virtual ceremony held in recognition of 79th anniversary of attack on Pearl Harbor. Traditionally, a big ceremony is held at the site in recognition of those who served. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials opted for a smaller and more private event this year, which was shared online. KHON2.

As pandemic rages, virtual ceremony honors those lost in 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. On the solemn anniversary of the ‘date which will live in infamy’ ― where more than 2,000 American lives were lost during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor ― hundreds of people would typically gather for a memorial service on the harbor’s shores. Hawaii News Now.

Video: 79th National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Commemoration. DMA Pacific official video.

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Hawaii landlords rejecting $8M in overdue rent. Some island landlords have rejected about $8 million in direct payments to cover the rents they’re owed because they do not have general excise tax licenses and are not paying taxes on their rental income. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Economic Recovery May Be Slowing. After Hawaii saw a bump-up in positive economic indicators in November, things appear to be slowing down again. During a virtual meeting of a House Committee on Monday, Carl Bonham, the Executive Director of the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization, delivered this update. Big Island Video News.

Economic Gains, Travel-Related Cases: Unpacking Safe Travels Data. Travel-related cases made up just a small portion of statewide totals — 14% in November — but Kauai, Maui and Hawaii counties saw double-digit spikes that were largely blamed on travel-related cases. Civil Beat.

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House committee: No changes needed to Safe Travels program. Despite updated federal COVID recommendations, state officials do not believe the Safe Travels Hawaii program requires significant changes. Tribune-Herald.

Incoming mayors want looser Safe Travels restrictions. Hawaii’s two incoming mayors want changes to the Safe Travels Program, and allow passengers to be released from the 14-day quarantine if they get a negative COVID result after arrival. It’s a proposal some lawmakers and health experts want the governor to consider. KHON2.

Lawmakers, medical experts express concern about confusion in traveler testing program. Lawmakers and medical community leaders want the governor to streamline the traveler testing program and do away with island-specific rules. Currently, there are different rules for different islands and various groups have competing proposals. Hawaii News Now.

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2 Local Surveys Ask About Today and Tomorrow. The research division of the Anthology Marketing Group conducted two statewide polls for Hawaii Business Magazine in October and November: The BOSS Survey of 413 local business owners and senior executives, and the 808 Poll of 502 members of the general public. Here’s what we learned. Hawaii Business magazine.

The Army Is Spending Tens Of Thousands Of Dollars On Pigs In Hawaii. Since 2016, the Army has spent approximately $65,400 on contracts for “live animals, not raised for food.” The locally grown Hawaii hogs are for medical research and training health care providers at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — Dec. 7: 81 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Health officials reported 81 new COVID-19 cases statewide on Monday, including 58 on Oahu, 12 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Kauai, and three Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

HART Reveals P3 Bidders For Honolulu Rail — But Not Their Prices. One of the bidding teams “expressed concern” about the cost going public, leaving it uncertain when the information will be released. Civil Beat.

City Council asks Mayor to revise tier system to help small businesses. The Honolulu City Council is asking Mayor Kirk Caldwell to revise his tier system so that small businesses can increase their capacity. KHON2.

Haiku Stairs access plan advances but is still being debated. Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s plan to have a private vendor provide a “managed access” hiking tour operation at Kane­ohe’s iconic Haiku Stairs won tentative approval Monday from the City Council Economic Assistance and Revitalization Committee. Star-Advertiser.

City council moves closer to restoring the Haiku Stairs, but opposition remains.  Plans to restore and reopen the illegal but popular Haiku Stairs were advanced Monday by the city council. But community opposition remains on the divisive topic. Hawaii News Now.

90% of Waiawa’s inmate population has tested positive for COVID in recent months. The COVID outbreak at the Waiawa Correctional Facility is more widespread than previous thought. 90% of the prison’s population has either gotten sick or have recovered from the virus. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

New mayor, prosecutor, council inaugurated. Mayor Mitch Roth has repeatedly stated the goal of his administration is to help people thrive and succeed, and on Monday, less than an hour after reaffirming that pledge during his inauguration speech, he detailed several examples of emergency rules he plans to implement to help schools and businesses better cope with COVID-19 restrictions. West Hawaii Today.

Will travelers to Big Island undergo second, post-arrival testing? New Mayor explains. The Big Island officially has a new mayor. Former Prosecutor Mitch Roth was sworn in on Monday. KHON2.

Longtime prosecutor Mitch Roth sworn in as Hawaii County mayor. Former Hawaii County Prosecutor Mitch Roth is now mayor. He became the first to be inaugurated in Kona during a virtual event. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai'i Island says 'aloha' to new Mayor Mitch Roth. Mitch Roth said he hopes to create a government that's more open to the community. He also wants to work on a bolder plan to rebuild Hawaii Island's economy. KITV4.

Maui

County of Maui Set to Purchase Hawaiian Telcom Building in Wailuku for $3.8 Million. The County of Maui is set to close as early as the end of this month on the purchase the Hawaiian Telcom Building in Wailuku Town to provide more space for Maui Emergency Management Agency operations and for information technology workers. Maui Now.

Quarantine breaker returns to Colorado. A 23-year-old man chose to return to Colorado after he was arrested Saturday for violating the mandatory 14-day travelers quarantine after arriving on Maui, according to police. Maui News.

Kauai

Polihale reopens after five-month closure. When the park was shut down in July, the state’s Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks blamed overuse and abuse of the beach and camping area citing a weekend where over 1,000 people camped illegally. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Complex Area revising distance learning plans. For the upcoming second semester of school, the Kaua‘i Complex Area and Department of Education are revising distance learning models through the third quarter. Garden Island.