Federal judge strikes down challenge to Hawaii quarantine law, Category 3 Hurricane Douglas approaches islands, Hawaiian airlines flight attendant dies of COVID-19, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Federal courthouse in Honolulu ©2020 All Hawaii News

U.S. District Court judge rules against visitor’s challenge to Hawaii’s 14-day quarantine. U.S. District Court Judge Jill Otake has ruled against a South Carolina visitor whose family is challenging Gov. David Ige’s 14-day travel quarantine. Star-Advertiser.

South Carolina man’s legal challenge to Hawaii’s traveler quarantine is denied. For a second time, a federal judge has rejected arguments against the state’s mandatory traveler quarantine. Judge Jill Otake denied the motion from a South Carolina man who flew to Hawaii with his family. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Flight attendant linked to cluster at Hawaiian Airlines training program dies after testing positive for COVID-19. A Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant who participated in a Honolulu training program that resulted in a COVID-19 outbreak died Tuesday night after testing positive in California. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines Flight Attendant Dies of COVID-19. A long-time Hawaiian Airlines flight attendant is dead after contracting COVID-19, the company confirmed Wednesday afternoon. Big Island Now.

=====

Lawmaker Worries Ige Is Moving Too Slowly On COVID Relief Plans. The House money committee chair says the governor told state departments to hold off on spending. Civil Beat.

=====

2 more unions join teachers in calling for delay in reopening public school campuses. In a significant development Wednesday, two more unions joined the Hawaii State Teachers Association in calling for a delay in reopening public school campuses for the fall term. Hawaii News Now.

HGEA, UPW join teachers’ union in call to delay public school reopening. The state’s two largest government-worker unions are joining the Hawaii State Teachers Association in calling for the state to delay its reopening of the state’s public schools. Star-Advertiser.

Major unions combine to ask for delay in schools re-opening. Just 13 days before Hawaii’s public schools reopen their doors to in-person learning on August 4th, the Hawaii Government Employees Association and United Public Workers unions joined the Hawaii State Teachers Association in asking that opening of school buildings to students be delayed. KHON2.

Faced with COVID uncertainties, some teachers are calling it quits. The Board of Education is scheduled to decide Thursday on the DOE’s plan to reopen schools. As of Wednesday night, four thousand pages of written testimony had been submitted. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii teachers leave classrooms because of COVID-19. As the public school year gets ready to begin, there are concerns the COVID crisis will make Hawaii's teacher shortage even worse. KITV4.

How to register for Thursday's BOE meeting. KITV4.

=====

How New, Agile Networks of People Are Helping Hawai‘i. Hawai‘i dodged the worst of the pandemic, and we haven’t yet had any riots, but the situation is dire. Massive unemployment, sinkholes in the state budget and crippling uncertainty. Hawaii Business magazine.

=====

Douglas remains powerful Cat 3 hurricane moving toward Hawaii. Hurricane Douglas remains a powerful Category 3 hurricane Thursday as it churned toward the island chain, bringing the threat of drenching rains and damaging winds. Hawaii News Now.

Hurricane Douglas Continues To Strengthen, Could Become Major Hurricane. The National Hurricane Center says Douglas is expected to move near or over portions of the Hawaiian Islands this weekend. Big Island Video News.

Douglas approaching: County prepares for possible strike from tropical cyclone amid pandemic. ecasters at the National Hurricane Center in Miami say it’s possible Hurricane Douglas could reach Hawaii Island at hurricane strength by Sunday, although forecasts predict it will arrive as a tropical storm. Tribune-Herald.

Hurricane Douglas maintains strength overnight, could grow stronger today. Douglas remained maintained its strength overnight as a Category 3 hurricane and could possibly get even stronger today. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For July 22nd: 17 New Cases, 1 New Death Reported. All of the new cases reported today by the Hawaiʻi health department were identified on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i Reports its 25th COVID-19 Death, 17 New Cases on O‘ahu. Maui Now.

Oahu man becomes Hawaii’s 25th coronavirus-related death; 17 new cases also reported. State Department of Health officials reported that the latest coronavirus death was an Oahu man between 40-59 years old. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Union Labor Now Required On Big Honolulu Public Works Jobs. The community workforce agreement is a first of its kind in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

City signs a new agreement with construction unions. Honolulu’s Mayor and Hawaii’s construction unions have signed a new agreement that would give union workers priority for all city projects over $2 million. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Mayor Caldwell says city is working on finding more shelter space during hurricane season. On Wednesday Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said the city is still working on the challenge of finding more shelter space during hurricane season. KITV4.

Masks now required at all times in Oahu gyms. Masks are now mandatory at all times in Honolulu fitness facilities, according to a statement from the City and County of Honolulu after Mayor Kirk Caldwell amended a recently approved emergency order related to the COVID-19 outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell: Face coverings now mandatory inside gyms, even while working out. Gov. David Ige has approved a request to mandate the wearing of face coverings while inside gyms on Oahu, even while members are working out, city officials said Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Where Honolulu’s Prosecutor Candidates Stand On Criminal Justice Reform. The acting prosecutor and his three opponents are pitching very different solutions. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Police Chief Denies Racial Disparities Are Proof Of Profiling. Ballard says it’s “unfair, unfounded and just plain wrong” to say HPD targets people based on their ethnicity. Civil Beat.

=====

University of Hawaii at Manoa shares COVID-19 protocols for fall semester. Hawaii’s relatively low rate of COVID-19 cases and stringent emergency rules to prevent the disease’s spread are providing comfort and reassurance to parents of students planning to register for the fall semester at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii at Manoa announces COVID-19 protocols. With classes set to begin in about one month at University of Hawaii at Manoa, the school disclosed how it would handle the situation if a student tests positive for COVID-19. KITV4.

Hawaii Pacific University ready to welcome students back for fall semester with safety modifications. With classes slated to start Aug. 24 at Hawaii Pacific University — and in-person instruction for the first time since learning went online due to the pandemic shutdown in March — staff members were ready, confident and excited to welcome students back with redesigned facilities and protocols aimed at neutralizing the novel coronavirus, said HPU President John Gotanda on a media tour of the university’s hub campus at Aloha Tower Marketplace on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

HPU prepares to welcome back students with new health and safety measure. Hawaii Pacific University implemented new safety measures and technology so local and out-of-state students feel confident as they return to classes this fall. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor Kim Issues New COVID-19 Rule On Face Coverings. Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim recently signed the COVID-19 Emergency Rule No. 10, which clarifies the mandatory requirements for wearing face coverings while in public settings. Big Island Video News.

Mayor Kim Clarifies Mask Wearing Requirements. Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim issued his 10th Emergency Rule on Coronavirus Wednesday, clarifying mask-wearing requirements on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Council exercises caution in regard to 5G development. The Hawaii County Council resolved Wednesday to forestall any development of 5G infrastructure on the Big Island until the controversial technology is proven to be safe. Tribune-Herald.

Life of the Land opposing Honua Ola Bioenergy’s bid for reversal. Life of the Land, whose 2017 appeal to the state Supreme Court led to the state Public Utilities Commission rejecting Honua Ola Bioenergy’s power purchase agreement with Hawaii Electric Light Co., filed a motion Wednesday with the PUC saying that Honua does not meet the standard for reconsideration. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island Candies may extend temporary layoffs for more than 100 employees. Big Island Candies has plans to possibly extend temporary layoffs for 111 employees in Hilo due to Hawaii's consistent lull in tourism due to the Covid-19 pandemic and related travel quarantines instated by government officials. Pacific Business News.

Maui

Mayor Victorino announces $3 million Recovery and Relief Fund to support Maui County small businesses. Mayor Michael Victorino announced a partnership on Wednesday with federal credit unions to launch of a $3 million recovery and relief fund for local small businesses. KITV4.

Longtime Activist Walter Ritte Challenges Rep. Lynn DeCoite For House Seat. Ritte warns tourism must be controlled, while DeCoite sees a need for jobs. Civil Beat.

Maui Now’s Wendy Osher interviews Governor David Ige on Hawai’i ‘s Ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic Response. Maui Now News Director Wendy Osher provides a special update focused on the state’s ongoing COVID-19 response effort.  She is joined by  Governor David Ige who just last week issued a 10th Supplementary Emergency Proclamation related to the pandemic. Maui Now.

Two Maui residents hospitalized for COVID-19. Maui Memorial hadn’t seen a coronavirus patient since early June. Maui News.

Haleakala National Park reopened the Kipahulu District from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays starting today. The Pipiwai and Kuloa Point trails will be accessible as well. Maui News.

Kauai

Housing policy targets resort requirements. An amendment establishing a base-percentage of affordable housing units resort developers will need to offer than currently required in the county’s housing policy, which is currently being tweaked by the Kaua‘i County Council, was introduced yesterday. Garden Island.

Forthcoming small business grant program. The county has allocated $5 million in grants for small businesses that will be distributed by local credit unions next month. Garden Island.

Swimmers and fishers asked to share aloha. Following the lifting of certain restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of people returned to Hawai‘i’s ocean waters, states a DLNR release from DAR. Akin to “playing well with others in the sandbox,” the DLNR DAR is encouraging swimmers and fishers to share aloha when in the water. Garden Island.

Ige shares budget-balancing plan, Hawaiian Airlines scales back mainland service proposal, teachers and state strike back-to-school distancing deal, Molokai vacation rental owners sue over limits, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii pandemic reopening navigator

How This Special Legislative Committee Has Worked To Keep Hawaii’s Economy Afloat. The House COVID committee has drawn on the expertise and clout of its members to work behind the scenes and help the Ige administration work through the state’s biggest challenges. Civil Beat.

Governor details how he plans to shore up $2.3B budget shortfall. With tourism at a standstill and other sectors of the state’s economy just hobbling along, Hawaii is facing a multi-billion dollar budget shortfall that the governor says he plans to shore up with a big loan from the US Treasury and budget cuts to state agencies. It’s the first time Gov. David Ige has offered specifics on how he plans to address the shortfall. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines to scale back plans to resume service. Reinstating several North America routes remain on hold but its current schedule stays on track. KITV4.

More military contracts could aid Hawaii economy. The federal government inked about $2.3 billion in defense contracts in Hawaii in 2019, with about $1.3 billion going to local businesses, an official with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Most Hawaii parents want kids in school at least part time, survey shows. About 70% of families report that their children learned “much less” or “somewhat less” when public school campuses were closed last quarter to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, new survey results show. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Department of Education and teachers’ union agree on six feet of separation in classrooms. Hawaii’s public schools and the teachers’ union have agreed that students desks will be spaced six feet apart in classrooms in the new academic year, with anything less requiring a special exception. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii DOE, Teachers Union Agree To 6-Feet Spacing Rule. The teachers union and DOE came to an agreement that 6 feet of spacing in classrooms will be the norm, with anything less than that requiring a contract exception. Civil Beat.

Teachers union, DOE agree to keep students farther apart this fall. The Hawaii State Teachers Association and the state Department of Education reached an agreement on physical distancing in classrooms as schools prepare to start the new academic year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Funding cut for pre-K program leaves families scrambling for care. State lawmakers cut the funding for seven positions at campuses involved in the Executive Office on Early Learning's Public Prekindergarten Program for at-risk and underserved families. Hawaii News Now.

=====

June bankruptcies in Hawaii surged amid COVID crisis. The anticipated increase in Hawaii bankruptcies finally might be emerging as the state’s extended tourism lockdown and severe unemployment crisis take their toll. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s massive unemployed population dependent on soon-expiring federal assistance. Nearly 250,000 Hawaii residents remain out of work, and will have their $600 weekly unemployment insurance payment from the federal government expire on July 31. KHON2.

Securitas is hiring, and they’re hosting a virtual job fair. While many in Hawaii face unemployment, few companies are looking to hire. One of those companies is Securitas. They’re hosting a virtual job fair Wednesday and Thursday for interested applicants. Available are more than hundred officer positions statewide. Hawaii News Now.

Number of Hawaii visitor arrivals sinks to lowest level since June. The tourists keep coming even though the state still hasn’t officially reopened Hawaii tourism. Star-Advertiser.

Residents snub reopening for tourism, survey finds. A majority of Hawaii residents oppose reopening tourism amid the coronavirus pandemic, according to a report released this week. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Lawmakers question whether more contact tracers are needed as more cases linked to clusters found. On Tuesday, 22 new cases of COVID-19 were reported. The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) officials say many cases are tied to clusters. KHON2.

Hawaii inmate Tests Positive For COVID-19. The defendant and any exposed staff at the federal facility are in quarantine for 14 days. Civil Beat.

VIRUS TRACKER — JULY 14: 22 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. The quarantine remains in place for all incoming travelers, but schools are still on schedule to open next month. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Updates: 22 New Cases Today. The Hawai’i Health Department reported 22 new cases of COVID-19 today. Nineteen cases are reported on Oahu, and three are on Hawaii Island. The number of deaths remains at 22. Hawaii Public Radio.

To date, Oahu has recorded 960 positive tests, followed by Maui County with 135 cases, Hawaii County with 105 and Kauai County with 43. West Hawaii Today.

Oahu

Oahu bars, restaurants not allowed to serve liquor after midnight. Oahu bars and restaurants on Tuesday were ordered to stop serving liquor after midnight effective immediately in response to concerns about the spread of coronavirus, city officials said. Star-Advertiser.

To slow spread of COVID-19, Oahu bars will now have to stop serving alcohol at midnight. Effective immediately, the sale and consumption of alcohol at Oahu bars after midnight is prohibited as part of new restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

New mandate forces bars to stop serving alcohol at midnight in Honolulu. With cases increasing every day, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is looking at ways to curb the spread of the virus. KHON2.

=====

Clusters blamed as Hawaii sees 22 new coronavirus cases. A pau hana gathering among construction workers, workplace training at Hawaiian Airlines, exercise in indoor gyms, birthday parties, barbecues and other social gatherings are to blame for a surge in coronavirus cases, particularly on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Concerns grow over schools reopening after infection at summer fun program. A 6-year-old attending a summer fun program in Aiea tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend, raising concerns about Hawaii schools reopening in just a few weeks. Hawaii News Now.

Kym Marcos Pine says her top priority as mayor would be putting tourism in its place. Kym Marcos Pine has a vision for Oahu with far less tourism and far more homegrown jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Traveling Physician at Ka‘ū Hospital Tests Positive for COVID-19. Lt. Governor Josh Green confirmed Tuesday to Big Island Now that a traveling doctor hired at Ka‘ū Hospital and Rural Health Clinic tested positive for the coronavirus last week. A town hall featuring Green and Mayor Harry Kim was held in Pahala Monday night to assuage the fears of the community there. Big Island Now.

=====

Lee Loy amendment to fix ‘lame’ requirement of permits for window AC units. In the wake of a Department of Public Works press release that drew scorn when it was re-posted on Mayor Harry Kim’s official Facebook page, Hilo Councilwoman Sue Lee Loy has written an amendment to the construction code clarifying that building permits are not required to install a window air conditioning unit. West Hawaii Today.

County Considers Dropping Permit Requirement For Window-Mounted Air Conditioners. The Hawaiʻi County Council will consider amending the construction code at an upcoming meeting, following a social media stir over the permit requirement. Big Island Video News.

Portable, Window-Mounted Residential Air-Conditioning Units Exempt From Permit Requirements. An amendment is coming to legislation that will develop the framework for Hawai‘i County’s updated construction code. Big Island Now.

=====

New physician assistant program could boost Big Isle health care. A physician assistant program from Washington will expand to West Hawaii this fall, but ultimately will improve access to medical care throughout Hawaii Island and the state. Tribune-Herald.

Free Financial Navigator Service Tackles COVID-19 Troubles. The County of Hawaiʻi has partnered with the national nonprofit organization the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund to help resident navigate COVID-related financial issues. Big Island Video News.

Maui


Old UHMC Dorms Repurposed for Emergency Housing Project. Former UH-Maui College dormitory buildings were blessed Tuesday morning for Huliau, a project to make safe housing available for people who’ve fallen into homelessness. Maui Now.

Emergency Housing Project in Kahului blessed on Tuesday. Former UH-Maui College dormitory buildings were blessed Tuesday morning for Huliau, a project to make safe housing available for people who’ve fallen into homelessness. KITV4.

Kauai

Discounts bringing locals out. With the local economy hit hard by the nearly-100% drop in visitors since the spring, local businesses are offering discounts as a gesture to the community in a time of apprehension. Garden Island.

Free emergency water containers. There are two more days when people have the opportunity to get free emergency water containers from the county Department of Water — today at the Waimea High School grab-and-go meal site, and Thursday at the Kapa‘a High School grab-and-go meal site. Garden Island.

Molokai

Molokai Vacation Rental Owners File Lawsuit To Lift Restrictions. A vacation rental association and four homeowners have filed a federal lawsuit against the county of Maui claiming their rights have been violated by restrictions placed on short-term vacation rentals on the Hawaiian island of Molokai. Hawaii Public Radio.

Property owners sue over Molokai rental ban action. Permits set to expire at end of year; owners look to get them reinstated. Maui News.

Hawaii COVID-19 cases top 1,000, Senate staffer, Summer Fun worker test positive, Kauai man arrested for refusing to wear mask, voter registration deadline nears, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Yellow tang on Hawaii reef, story below  ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Senate worker tests positive for coronavirus but legislative session to resume Monday. The Hawaii State Senate will reconvene on Monday, despite learning Saturday that a Senate staff member had tested positive for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 cases top 1,000 as lifting of some lockdowns leads to more spread. Coronavirus infections in Hawaii topped 1,000 on Sunday, the fourth day in a row with more than 20 new cases. Star-Advertiser.

Green urges caution, mask-wearing as COVID-19 case count hits 1,023. As Hawaii surpassed 1,000 COVID-19 cases Sunday, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said he is concerned about a potential surge in cases following this weekend’s holiday festivities. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii continues to see double-digit spikes in COVID-19 cases amid growing concern about community spread. Hawaii saw another double-digit spike in new COVID-19 cases Sunday, with 25 new infections — all on Oahu. The cases put the statewide total at 1,023. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Gov. David Ige warns that without more federal aid, public worker pay cuts or furloughs are inevitable. Gov. David Ige is planning to borrow money from the federal government to raise cash to navigate the budget crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, but said layoffs, pay cuts or furloughs of Hawaii public employees are inevitable if Congress and President Donald Trump don’t come through with more help. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Among Airlines To Reach Loan Agreements with US. American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and three smaller carriers have reached agreement with the government for billions more in federal loans, a sign of the industry’s desperate fight to survive a downturn in air travel caused by the virus pandemic. Associated Press.

=====

Public will have a chance to weigh in on the major overhaul of election rules. A big overhaul of election rules is on the table, and the public has a chance to weigh in on Monday, July 6. KHON2.

Voter registration deadline approaching. New Hawaii voters have until Thursday, July 9, to register to vote in the 2020 Primary Election. West Hawaii Today.

State elections office to hold drive-thru voter registration events. Voter registration can be done online at the state Elections website, through a Voter Registration Applications at the county election office, or through one of several drive-thru registration events this week. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Kahele Can’t Campaign For Congress Right Now. Does It Matter? The Democrat has to sit it out while on active National Guard duty, but he doesn’t face much of a threat anyway — something that has dumbfounded political observers. Civil Beat.

State seeks to give health director power to declare public health emergencies. The state wants to give the state Health director the authority, with the governor’s blessing, to declare public health emergencies to battle the coronavirus and future pandemics. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Federal judge rules Hawaii’s quarantine is reasonable during coronavirus pandemic. A U.S. judge will not stop Hawaii from enforcing a quarantine on arriving travelers, saying in a ruling that the emergency mandate is reasonable during the public health crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A group of Hawaii, California and Nevada residents tried to stop the quarantine by filing a lawsuit alleging it is unfair and unnecessary. It violates the fundamental right to travel freely, they argued. Associated Press.

Full order from federal court upholding Hawaii's quarantine policy found here.

=====

Hemp production bill advances, but fate uncertain. A bill that would fully legalize hemp production throughout Hawaii is only a few steps away from becoming law, although many are unhappy with its final form. Tribune-Herald.

Ways and Means passes measure banning flavored tobacco products. The state Senate Ways and Means Committee on Thursday unanimously advanced a bill banning flavored tobacco products. West Hawaii Today.

Proposed solar farms could power 200,000 Hawaii homes. About a dozen solar farm developers are preparing to soon hold community meetings about plans that could power around 200,000 Hawaii homes with photovoltaic panels covering more than 3,000 acres on three islands. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Breakthrough could boost yellow tang. Scientists in Hawai‘i have made breakthroughs in studies of the popular yellow tang aquarium fish that could lead to a shift to aquaculture for procurement instead of wild catching. Garden Island.

Roi, the misunderstood fish. Research reveals more about disliked, introduced species. Over the years, roi have been labeled as a culprit for the declining fish populations and reef health, but marine specialists say these fish may not be as bad as they seem. Maui News.

18 endangered monk seals born in main Hawaiian islands so far in 2020. A total of 18 monk seal pups have been born in the main Hawaiian islands so far this year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Star-Advertiser.

Beach Cleanups Prove Popular And Purposeful During Pandemic. People want to help or just stretch their legs, and groups are organizing events with safety guidelines in mind. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaii Updates: State Exceeds 1,000 COVID-19 Cases; Summer Fun Worker Tests Positive. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Sunday, July 5: 25 New Cases. All of those new cases were reported on Oʻahu, bringing the cumulative total on that island to 744. Big Island Video News.

Number of COVID-19 cases in Hawaii is now over 1,000. Twenty-five new cases reported on Sunday, July 5, by the state Department of Health brings the statewide total to 1,023. KHON2.

Oahu

Waipahu Summer Fun employee tests positive for COVID-19. A city park employee who works at a Summer Fun site in Waipahu and had “minimal” contact with participants has tested positive for COVID-19, authorities said. Hawaii News Now.

City park staff member tests positive for COVID-19. The city has confirmed a staffer in the Department of Parks and Recreation has tested positive for COVID-19. KHON2.

Summer Fun employee tests positive for COVID-19. KITV4.

=====

‘Open Street Sundays’ in Waikiki extended through July. Kalakaua Avenue will continue to be closed to vehicle traffic on Sunday mornings, as the city has announced an extension of the ‘Open Street Sundays’ program. Hawaii News Now.

Envisioned vertical public school in Kakaako faces new delays. Three years after unveiling images of what Hawaii’s first vertical public school could look like, the pioneering project envisioned for Kakaako is in limbo. Star-Advertiser.

Kakaako condo tower construction upended by COVID-19. Production of a mainly midpriced Kakaako condominium tower has run into trouble because of COVID-19, but the developer believes several planned changes that include pricing more units for less will overcome setbacks. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Ola Brew expands to mainland: Company’s hard seltzers now available across Southern California. At a time when many businesses are seeing markets shrink, Kailua-Kona’s Ola Brew Co. has managed to extend its reach to the mainland. West Hawaii Today.

Puna retreat’s grant request delayed as pandemic stifles state funding. A battle between a group of Puna residents and a Puna retreat is delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Half of jobless filers had not received checks. More than half of Maui County residents who applied for unemployment benefits as of mid-May had not received payments and nearly half of Maui County households reported a decline in income since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, a Bank of Hawaii Foundation survey released Thursday showed. Maui News.

Kahului Airport’s Runway 2-20 to Temporarily Close for Taxiway Construction. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation advises Maui residents of the closure of Runway 2-20 for a taxiway reconstruction project scheduled to take place at the Kahului Airport on weekends from July 4 to Aug. 1. Maui Now.

More park space and fewer gentleman’s estates. Draft community plan covering next 20 years finished. Designating 500 more acres in West Maui for parks and open space and restricting gentleman’s estates and fast-track affordable housing projects in certain West Maui areas, are some of the highlights of the updated draft of the West Maui Community Plan. Maui News.

Kauai

Man arrested after refusing to wear face mask. Kaua‘i police arrested Ryan Buley, 34, of Kapa‘a, Saturday afternoon, for terroristic threatening and harassment following his refusal to wear a mask in a North Shore store. Garden Island.

Kauai man arrested for harassment after refusing to wear a mask. Kaua‘i police arrested Ryan Buley, 34, of Kapa‘a, Saturday afternoon for terroristic threatening and harassment following his refusal to wear a mask in a North Shore store. KITV4.

Kauai County, Airbnb Inc. agree to limit rentals. Kauai County has partnered with Airbnb Inc., the online travel platform, to help weed out illegal vacation rental properties on the Garden Isle. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines booking mainland routes, University of Hawaii reopening Aug. 24, Blangiardi's past scrutinized, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines loaded for service ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaiian Airlines to resume most U.S. mainland routes, increase interisland schedules. Hawaiian Airlines announced today that it is resuming most of its U.S. mainland routes and will increase its neighbor island schedule — although international service will remain suspended due to restrictions on inbound travel. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines to Resume Most US Mainland Routes. Hawaiian Airlines is set to resume a reduced schedule between Hawaiʻi and most of its US mainland gateway cities after months of suspended flights due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Big Island Now.

Hawaiian Airlines to Resume Most US Mainland Routes in August. Hawaiian Airlines today announced it will resume a reduced schedule between Hawaiʻi and most of its US mainland gateway cities on Aug. 1, when the state of Hawai‘i begins welcoming travelers who choose to participate in a pre-travel COVID-19 testing program being developed. Maui Now.

United resumes nonstop service to Kona. Major airlines are increasing direct service between Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport and the U.S. mainland. West Hawaii Today.

=====

"We're concerned" Lieutenant Governor keeping tabs on mainland COVID-19 surges. "We’re concerned about what that impact is going to be on Hawaii," Lieutenant Governor Josh Green said. KITV4.

Lots Of Questions Surround Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program. The proposal requires travelers get a COVID-19 test before departure to Hawaii to bypass quarantine, creating concerns about who would provide the testing. Civil Beat.

Come Aug. 1, will Hawaii residents who take short mainland trips have to quarantine? Maybe. A Hawaii resident who travels out-of-state after Aug. 1 could still be required to quarantine after returning home. The state hasn’t yet said how they’ll handle residents who go to the mainland for short trips after quarantine restrictions have eased. Hawaii News Now.

Return of domestic airlift will be boon for Hawaii tourism. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines are reinstating service in time for the Aug. 1 launch of a COVID-19 passenger testing program that will allow Hawaii’s tourism industry to reopen to out-of-state visitors. Star-Advertiser.

Recent study shows fewer Hawaii residents believe management of COVID-19 is 'heading in right direction'. Over the past month there has been a drop in the number of residents who believe the state's management of the pandemic is "heading in the right direction. KITV4.

Mandatory Interisland Travel Form Now Online. The form may not be completed or submitted outside of the 24-hour flight departure time frame, state officials advise. Big Island Video News.

Mandatory interisland travel and health form now online. The State of Hawai'i mandatory interisland travel and health form can now be submitted online within 24 hours of flight departure. KITV4.

=====

University of Hawaii to open Aug. 24 with social distancing. The University of Hawaii’s 10-campus system plans to start classes on Aug. 24 with accommodations in the era of COVID-19, including still-evolving social distancing requirements, masks for everyone and a one-third reduction in on-campus housing at UH-Manoa and UH-Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

UH Releases Plan For ‘Unprecedented Semester’. The university is working closely with state health officials to keep students safe, but said coronavirus cases on campus were almost inevitable. Civil Beat.

UH lays out COVID-19 guidelines for upcoming academic year. The University of Hawaii released on Wednesday interim COVID-19 guidelines for the upcoming academic year. Tribune-Herald.

UH Announces Interim COVID-19 Guidelines. The university says the top priority is the health, safety and well-being of its students, employees and visitors. Big Island Video News.

UH Releases COVID-19 Guidelines For All Campuses. The University of Hawai‘i on Wednesday released its interim COVID-19 guidelines for the 2020-21 school year. Big Island Now.

Hawaii DOE set to announce reopening plans Thursday. The Hawaii State Department of Education is scheduled to announce its reopening plans on Thursday morning. KITV4.

=====

COVID-19 Puts Short-Term Rentals Back Under Microscope. The pandemic has brought changes to the industry that may have a lasting impact. Hawaii Public Radio.

Complaints rise about COVID risks at work. COVID complaints to the state’s occupational safety division doubled in June and outnumber all other categories of concerns combined.  KHON2.

Some 11,000 people in Hawaii still haven’t gotten unemployment payments. Many laid-off Hawaii workers are growing desperate as they wait for their unemployment benefits. The state has paid out more than $1 billion in the last four months – but thousands of claimants still haven’t received a penny. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s TV and film await the start of production. It has been a longer hiatus than expected for television and movie production, the Island Film Group’s co-founder said there is a high demand to produce content but it is a matter of making sure the sets are safe during the pandemic. KHON2.

=====

Lawmakers, public question BLNR member’s intentions. State lawmakers and hundreds of individuals questioned the intentions of longtime Board of Land and Natural Resources member Christopher Yuen ahead of a vote that could extend his term. Star-Advertiser.

BLNR nominee Yuen grilled by Senate committee. The state Senate Committee on Water and Land took Board of Land and Natural Resources nominee Christopher Yuen into political rough water during a Wednesday hearing concerning his proposed confirmation. Tribune-Herald.

Agreement Reached To Protect Dwindling Shark Species. Thousands of oceanic whitetip sharks have died in commercial fishing off Hawaii. Now, WESPAC will have to devise a plan to better protect them. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaii Updates: 9 New Cases; Study Says Hawaii Testing Suppressing COVID. The Hawaii Health Department announced 9 new cases of COVID-19 today. Seven cases are on Oahu and two on Maui. Oahu's case count stands at 659, Maui County's at 125, Hawaii County's at 87 and Kauai's at 38. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii sees 9 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 926. Hawaii health officials reported nine new coronavirus cases today as the statewide total number of infections since the start of the outbreak rose to 926. Star-Advertiser.

9 new COVID-19 cases reported, bringing statewide total to 926. Hawaii News Now.

Another Resident Of Hawaii’s Largest Nursing Facility Contracts COVID-19. A dozen residents of Hale Nani have been infected so far, along with six staff members. Civil Beat.

Oahu

How Rick Blangiardi Got Caught Up In A 1980s Bank Fraud Scheme. Thirty-five years ago, the federal government sued Rick Blangiardi for his participation in a loan scam. The mayoral candidate says he was duped by criminals. Decades before Rick Blangiardi began his run for Honolulu mayor, he took part in financial schemes in Hawaii and Kansas that led him to file for bankruptcy and landed the scam’s ringleaders behind bars.  Civil Beat.

State says new homes for 32 Waimanalo homeless not allowed. In just three months, “Auntie Blanche” McMillan has created permanent homes for 32 homeless people from Waiminalo and plans to build 100 more on state land at the end of the road on Hilu Street. Star-Advertiser.

Homeless triage center that Chinatown residents rejected may have found a new home. Last month, Chinatown residents opposed the facility. But the program may have now found a home in Kalihi, in a two-story building that’s hard to miss. Hawaii News Now.

Haiku stairs formally transferred to city. The spectacular mountainside staircase known as Haiku Stairs, whose fate has been clouded for more than 30 years, was officially handed over to the city Wednesday with the aim of transforming it into a public attraction. Star-Advertiser.

Free parking for electric vehicles at municipal lots, meters, is over. City officials today reminded the public that electric vehicles will no longer be able to park for free at county as well as state parking lots and meters due to the repeal of those benefits on June 30. Star-Advertiser.

====

Chinatown To Get Cleanup In Effort To Boost Commerce. Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city will be paying special attention to sanitizing and beautifying the Chinatown area. Hawaii Public Radio.

Chinatown, downtown streets are scheduled for repair. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday announced a pair of long- awaited street rehabilitation projects for the downtown and Chinatown areas of Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

CARES money to hit the streets in a few months: Council begins process of doling out millions. County Council members are urging Mayor Harry Kim’s administration to push coronavirus relief funds out as quickly as possible to island businesses so they can get residents back to work. West Hawaii Today.

Waipi‘o Valley Road Closed Over July 4 Weekend. Public access to Waipi‘o Valley will be closed over the Fourth of July weekend in an effort to deter large gatherings as Hawai‘i continues to stem the spread of COVID-19. Big Island Now.

High enterococci levels prompt advisory for waters near Anaehoomalu Bay. Health officials on Wednesday issued a high bacteria count advisory for Anaehoomalu Bay in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Council panel backs county Agriculture Department creation. Charter amendment recommended for November ballot. Maui News.

Mayor Victorino Calls Charter Amendments “Reckless”; Councilmember Calls Mayor’s Statements “Overly Dramatic”. Mayor Michael Victorino issued a statement last night, strongly opposing two proposed amendments by the County Council’s Governance, Ethics and Transparency Committee. Maui Now.

No Firecracker Permits Issued on Maui for Fourth of July. Due to commercial vendors deciding not to sell firecrackers for this holiday, no permits are being issued for firecracker purchases on Maui for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. Maui Now.

Kauai

Group wants double testing. A committee of doctors and community leaders is considering a proposal to Gov. David Ige to test a tourist-entry system that would require visitors to Kauai to be tested for COVID-19 before they depart and again after they arrive, with a five- or six-day quarantine in between. Garden Island.

Quarantine violations in court. A couple that allegedly broke the state’s COVID-19 mandatory 14-day quarantine emergency order pleaded not guilty during separate hearings Wednesday morning. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Fire Department Changes Command. Fire and Ocean Safety Chief Steven Goble took the helm of the Kaua‘i Fire Department Wednesday morning in a Change of Command Ceremony held at the Lihu‘e Civic Center. Garden Island.

Goble takes charge of KFD. Steven Goble’s 100-day plan begins with listening. Garden Island.

Pretesting of inbound Hawaii passengers urged, Maui bars to reopen, Kauai Foodland to close, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Honolulu airport ©2020 All Hawaii News

Experts: Test Passengers To Reopen Hawaii Tourism. People traveling to Hawaii could get a COVID-19 test before boarding the plane at a national pharmacy chain under a deal in the works with state officials. Civil Beat.

UH proposal calls for strict preflight screening of out-of-state passengers. The University of Hawaii is proposing a way to allow for the reopening of out-of-state travel to Hawaii while ensuring minimal spread of COVID-19 from tourists. Tribune-Herald.

6 in 10 mainland travelers say they’d be willing to be tested for COVID-19 to visit Hawaii. A new UH study shows the majority of travelers from the mainland would be willing to take a COVID-19 test prior to landing in Hawaii and after arrival. Hawaii News Now.

As air travel slowly returns, thermal screening at HNL to begin.  A pilot passenger thermal screening project is getting ready to takeoff at the Honolulu Airport. Starting Monday, thermal scanners designed to screen incoming passengers at HNL will individually measure people’s temperatures as they come off their planes. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines is hoping to get residents flying again when it starts increased service to the neighbor islands. The airline is offering a 20 percent discount on flights between June 16 – 30. KHON2.

=====

Hawaii-Based General Confirmed As First Black Air Force Chief Of Staff. Gen. Charles Brown, the current commander of the Pacific Air Forces, accepted the nomination just days after speaking out on institutional racism and the national protests triggered by the killing of George Floyd. Civil Beat.

Hawaii scrambles to prepare for all mail-in voting in primary election. Hawaii elections officials are scrambling to prepare for the state’s first all-mail election: The primary election on Aug. 8. In addition to alerting voters that ballots will be coming in the mail, the COVID-19 crisis means the ballots cannot be counted in the tight confines of the state Capitol. Hawaii News Now.

Bill requiring county police departments to disclose identities of officers suspended, discharged being considered. Hawaii lawmakers will head back into session at the State Capitol on June 22nd. KITV4.

With tourism shut down, sustainable start-ups hope to fuel a new era in Hawaii’s economy. Tourism may be the driving force behind Hawaii’s economy, but a growing number of entrepreneurs and business agree: It doesn’t have to be the only one. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Hawaii to receive $30M in federal funding to help homeless during pandemic. Hawaii is set to receive more than $30.8 million in federal funding to help homeless families and individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz. Star-Advertiser.

$30M in federal funds headed to Hawaii to support houseless population amid Covid crisis. More than $30 million in federal funds is being sent to the Aloha State to improve shelters, as well as provide mental health support, job assistance and essential services for Hawaii's houseless amid the Covid-19 pandemic, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

State Homeless Coordinator expects to see steady increase in homelessness due to pandemic. While local economists believe the homeless population in Hawaii will increase in the coming months due to COVID-19 we're getting a clearer picture of the situation before the pandemic. KITV4.

=====

First Hawaii resident charged with violating traveler quarantine. A 48-year-old Waikiki woman has become the first Hawaii resident to be charged with violating the state’s mandatory traveler quarantine. Star-Advertiser.

Teachers, Just Like Other Working Parents, Are In A Bind Over Lack Of Child Care. Many child care centers have shuttered, delayed reopening or increased tuition due to the pandemic. That leaves many teachers who need to return to their classrooms with few options for their kids. Civil Beat.

6 new coronavirus cases on Oahu brings Hawaii’s statewide total to 682. Hawaii Department of Health officials said today that the state’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen to 682, up six from Monday. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 9: 6 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. All of the new reported cases were on Oahu, according to the state Department of Health. Civil Beat.

Oahu

In the first mass testing on Oahu, Arcadia nursing home tests about 550 of its health care workers. An estimated 550 health care workers at the Arcadia Family of Cos. were tested this week for the coronavirus in Hawaii’s first mass testing program at nursing homes on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Local farmers in need of restaurant and hotel operation, City Council to discuss CARES funds to help. According to the Hawaii Farm Bureau, most of Hawaii’s farmers rely on hotels, restaurants, and schools to stay in business. Honolulu City Councilmember Ann Kobayashi says that Hawaii needs local farmers for the economy to be sustainable. KHON2.

Abigail Kawananakoa’s wife among 4 seeking conservatorship. The wife of Abigail Kawananakoa is among four individuals being considered for appointment as conservator overseeing the personal finances of the 93-year-old Campbell Estate heiress. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Gets $22.3 Million To Address Housing Impacts Of COVID-19. Another round of federal funds is specifically aimed at meeting people’s housing needs. Civil Beat.

Survey Counts Over 4,400 Homeless People On Oahu Before COVID-19. Hawaii’s rate of homelessness was among the worst in the nation pre-pandemic. It’s likely to get even worse. Civil Beat.

City’s summer program for kids free this year, but enrollment to shrink. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday afternoon announced the city would offer a pared-down version of Summer Fun in July for free. Star-Advertiser.

Vehicles won’t be allowed on Kalakaua Ave. for the next 4 Sunday mornings. Waikiki residents are baffled and upset after they say they weren’t consulted when it came to a plan to shut down Kalakaua Avenue for the next four Sunday mornings. Hawaii News Now.

Ko Olina lagoons reopen but parking lot still closed. For more than 25 years, the four man-made beach lagoons at Ko Olina Resort Community on Oahu’s leeward coast have been a favorite seashore recreation spot. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Mayor to Seek Approval from Governor on Larger Gatherings.  Kim said he was working on a proposal to Gov. David Ige that requests a lift from the 10 people or less group size to 50 or less for indoors and 100 or less for outdoors. The mayor hopes to implement the new regulations by next week. Big Island Now.

Vacation rental owners call foul: County rules bar them from renting long-term to locals. County Planning Director Michael Yee said Tuesday the prohibition will continue only while Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamation is in effect. West Hawaii Today.

=====

HPD prohibits use of carotid, neck restraint choke holds. Hawaii County’s police officers have been prohibited for nearly two decades from employing the restraint infamously used by a Minneapolis police officer that led to the death of George Floyd. West Hawaii Today.

Big Island police chief talks George Floyd case, protests. Hawaii County Police Chief Paul Ferreira said the viral video of a white Minneapolis police officer kneeling on the neck of an African-American man, who later died, reflects upon all police officers. Tribune-Herald.

=====

A retired Hawaii Police Department captain accused of tipping off Hilo arcade owners prior to a 2017 police gambling raid made his initial court appearance Tuesday on refiled charges. Tribune-Herald.

Kim: No July 4 fireworks show. The County of Hawaii canceled all county-sponsored Independence Day festivities because of COVID-19 concerns. Tribune-Herald.

$14.9M released for Kealakehe Elementary School new classroom building. Design work is underway for a new classroom building at Kealakehe Elementary School that’s expected to be ready for school year 2023-24. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Bars can reopen, outdoor sports can resume in Maui County on June 15, Victorino says. A county news release today announced that indoor gatherings can be as large as 50 people, while outdoor gatherings can have up to 100 people, which would allow additional businesses to open. Star-Advertiser.

Maui Bars, Paddling, Some Outdoor Sports Set to Reopen on Monday, June 15. The Governor has granted the County of Maui’s request to reopen more businesses and activities on Monday, June 15, 2020.  The reopening will come a day ahead of the planned resumption of interisland travel on June 16, as the state’s 14-day quarantine on interisland travel is lifted next week Tuesday. Maui Now.

Mayor: Maui in good position as life returns to normal. More reopenings expected to be announced this week. Maui News.

=====

New Report Shows Maui Residents Must Work 56.6 Hours Per Week to Afford Rent. Hawaiʻi residents must work 59 hours per week to afford rent of a single bedroom dwelling, according to a new report by Self Financial. Maui Now.

Home prices up to $800K in May amid pandemic. A decline in sales and new listings during the pandemic pushed single-family home prices to $800,000 and condo prices to their highest levels in 12 months in May, according to the latest data from the Realtors Association of Maui. Maui News.

Kauai

Foodland to close Kauai store in early August. Foodland Super Market Ltd. today announced it will be closing its store at Waipouli Town Center on Kauai on Aug. 9 after 40 years of business. Star-Advertiser.

End of an era. Pua Pa of Lihu‘e said she is going to miss the poke from the Foodland store in Waipouli Shopping Center. Garden Island.

Foodland to exit A&B's Waipouli Town Center on Kauai. Foodland Super Market Ltd. said Tuesday that it does not plan to renew its lease at the Waipouli Town Center on Kauai with landlord Alexander & Baldwin and will close the store on Aug. 9 after 40 years in business. Pacific Business News.

=====

Arrests made for quarantine violations. Two men were recently arrested for violating the state’s 14-day quarantine order related to COVID-19. Benjamin McGranahan was arrested at Lihu‘e Airport on June 5 after refusing to abide by the rule that requires all arriving visitors and returning residents to remain at an appropriate quarantine location for two weeks. Garden Island.

Valenciano to rule on Coco Palms foreclosure. A state Circuit Court judge on Tuesday allowed one of the would-be Honolulu redevelopers of the iconic Coco Palms Resort in Wailua to lodge a last-minute objection to a proposed agreement that would send the troubled hotel to the foreclosure auction block. Garden Island.

Cracking down on tourists breaking quarantine, DOE plans for summer school, Honolulu ramps up COVID-19 testing, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii rainbow ©2020 All Hawaii News

Recent changes have beefed up enforcement of the traveler quarantine. State lawmakers are pushing for tougher enforcement of the 14-day traveler quarantine, which has been extended through June 30. During the Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 meeting on Tuesday, law enforcement leaders detailed recent changes made to crack down on violators. Hawaii News Now.

Senators concerned about visitors who violate quarantine. Senators questioned the Attorney General and the Honolulu Police Chief on Tuesday about cracking down on visitors accused of violating the state's mandatory 14-day quarantine. KITV4.

AG talks quarantine enforcement policies with panel. During a Tuesday meeting of the state Senate Special Committee on COVID-19, Hawaii Attorney General Clare Connors said the state is looking into implementing a system whereby vacation rental owners can be fined for not keeping their guests in compliance with quarantine requirements. Tribune-Herald.

Lifting 14-day quarantine will be key factor in Hawaiian Airlines’ recovery, says CEO. Establishing a timeline for lifting the 14-day quarantine for travelers to and within the Islands will be one key factor in future metrics for Hawaiian Airlines as the carrier faces what President and CEO Peter Ingram called an “incredible destruction in revenue” as a result of the coronavirus. Pacific Business News.

=====

Hawaii Department of Education to receive $43M to support students, schools during Covid-19 crisis. The Hawaii Department of Education has received more than $43 million in federal funding to be used to bolster schools, retain the educational workforce, and support students during the Covid-19 pandemic, U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz announced Monday. Pacific Business News.

State DOE makes plans for summer school. The Hawaii Department of Education is rolling out summer school plans as the state transitions to the next phase of its COVID-19 recovery. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai'i DOE set to offer summer school with some in-person classes. Classes would be small just about 6 to 8 students to promote social distancing. KITV4.

HIDOE Announces Summer Education Plans. The Hawaii State Department of Education will deliver summer programming by both in-person and distance learning. Big Island Now.

As Hawaii parents head back to work, many are faced with another challenge: no childcare. Because of distancing rules, day cares have fewer slots available and most summer school classes will be held online so kids will still be at home on a computer screen. Hawaii News Now.

DOE lays out plans for summer school and what we may see during the new school year. With the impact of COVID-19 on the last semester of school, some students will be returning this summer to make up grades and even get ahead. KHON2.

=====

Despite urgent social needs, legislators decide to bank state and federal funds. Lawmakers are poised to stash more than $1.6 billion in state and federal funding in the state’s “rainy day” budget reserve fund at a time when Hawaii residents are hurting from the highest unemployment rate in generations, prompting one state senator to tell her colleagues Tuesday she is ashamed of the Legislature for failing to help more people in need. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaii Antibody Tests Suggest Community's Level Of Exposure Low. As more people in Hawaii take the COVID-19 antibody test, their results are providing information about how far the virus has spread statewide. Hawaii Public Radio.


Hawaii distributes first pandemic unemployment assistance checks. The state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations reported today that it has now paid out nearly $109.9 million in federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Senators Put Off Vote For Land Board Nominee. Opponents of the wind farms in Kahuku voiced opposition to his confirmation. Civil Beat.

Prison Commission Demands Answers On COVID-19 At Arizona Prison. Hawaii’s jail and prison oversight commission is demanding an investigation by the Department of Public Safety into an attorney’s claim that more than a dozen correctional staff at the Arizona private prison housing Hawaii inmates have COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Citing mounting concerns, lawmakers urge paroling authority to delay another large prisoner release. State lawmakers say the courts have done enough to reduce jail overcrowding amid COVID-19 fears — and they want the Hawaii Paroling Authority to delay another large wave of releases that’s slated to happen in the next few weeks. Hawaii News Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — MAY 19: 1 New Case. Four more people recovered on Tuesday, including two on Oahu and one patient each on the Big Island and Maui. Civil Beat.

One new coronavirus case on Big Island raises statewide total to 641. Hawaii’s tally of coronavirus cases has risen by just one case to a total of 641, the state Department of Health announced today. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

Honolulu creates partnership to increase coronavirus testing. With more of the island’s activities gradually opening, Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday that the city is aiming to provide coronavirus testing for more than 100,000 people, or about 1 in 10 Oahu residents. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Expanding Virus Testing With Federal Funds. The program is slated to be operational within six weeks. Civil Beat.

After another day with no new cases of COVID-19 in Honolulu County, Mayor Kirk Caldwell held a news conference to announce new broad testing measures, including waste water testing. KHON2.

From the lavatory to the laboratory, Honolulu testing wastewater for COVID-19. Another tool in the fight against COVID-19 could be what goes down your toilet. KHON2.

The city is starting to test wastewater (yes, sewage) for COVID-19. Here’s why. The city announced Tuesday that it’s participating in a COVID-19 Wastewater Testing Project with dozens of other states to test sewage for the presence of the virus. The testing is designed to monitor for possible increases in COVID-19 cases in particular communities or on the island as a whole. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Honolulu’s business grant program due to coronavirus draws thousands of applicants in first day. The city’s grant program for Oahu small businesses netted about 2,200 applications in less than 24 hours, the city’s top economic development official told a City Council committee today. Star-Advertiser.

Dept. of Parks and Recreation is working to restart operations at Hanauma Bay. The City Department of Parks and Recreation on Tuesday told the Honolulu City Council that it's working with vendors to restart operations. KITV4.

Yokohama Bay won’t have lifeguards for the time being. After 20 years of lifeguard protection at Yokohama Beach, the city says lifeguards won’t be stationed there anytime soon. Hawaii News Now.

Free ‘Pop-Up’ Health Clinic In Kalihi Aims To Cover The Newly Uninsured. More than 140 doctors and nurses have already contacted Dr. Jim Ireland, one of the organizers to work at the Aloha Free Clinic. Civil Beat.

New homeless outreach effort zeroes in on Waianae Coast. On Tuesday morning, a team from Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center was packed up and ready to go. Hawaii News Now.

Damien Memorial rethinks cancelation of graduation. Damien Memorial School’s president has reversed course after abruptly canceling the school’s virtual graduation ceremony when students petitioned for an in-person gathering in the summer. Star-Advertiser.

The Navy Replaced Its Leaky Fuel Tanks In California. Why Not Oahu? . In California and Washington, the Navy said its World War II-era tanks should be retired. But in Hawaii, the Navy says its tanks from the same era are working great. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Governor Approves Hawaii County Beach Park Reopenings. Governor David Ige approved the islandwide reopenings, which will come with numerous restrictions, the County of Hawaiʻi reports. Big Island Video News.

Council free to donate to non-COVID causes. Mayor Harry Kim said Tuesday he’s rescinding an earlier recommendation that County Council members use their contingency funds only to respond to the COVID-19 crisis. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Announces First Phase of DMV Reopening. Division of Vehicle Registration & Licensing offices will reopen for limited in-person services on Monday, June 1. Big Island Video News.

Maui

DOH Deems Outbreak Cluster “Closed”, One COVID-19 Patient Remains at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Maui Health today has one positive COVID-19 patient in the hospital and only one “warm” COVID-19 isolation unit, which will remain in place for any future COVID needs. Maui Now.

County outlines rules for salons, church services. Maui County officials announced new requirements for hair and nail salons, religious drive-in services and dine-in restaurants, which are slated to reopen in the coming days. Maui News.

Kauai

Kawakami asks to reopen early. Mayor Derek Kawakami said Kaua‘i is aiming to reopen some businesses earlier than the timeline proposed Monday by Gov. David Ige, and his office is looking for the governor’s approval to do so. Garden Island.

Kauai Wants To Reopen Churches, Zipline Tours. There have been no reported coronavirus infections on the Garden Isle for more than five weeks. Civil Beat.

Addressing abandoned vehicles. With the help of a special task force moderated by County Councilmember Mason Chock, the county is hoping for a low report on abandoned vehicles on Kaua‘i this year. Garden Island.