Caldwell extends Oahu lock-down, but opens parks; Kim mandates masks on Hawaii Island; Victorino defies state beach ban on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian Airlines flight at Honolulu airport ©2020 All Hawaii News

On average, more than 125 visitors fly to Hawaii every day despite coronavirus quarantine. The Hawaii Tourism Authority reported today that 444 trans-Pacific passengers arrived on Monday, including 111 visitors and 151 residents. Star-Advertiser.

The visitor industry showed signs of deterioration before hotels began to close. The rapid deterioration of Hawaii’s hotel industry in the wake of COVID-19 lockdowns began to hit its stride in March, with occupancy plummeting by at least 37% across every island. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers looking to diversify Hawaii’s economy away from tourism. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a major hit to the tourism industry and businesses that rely on it. KHON2.

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State reports just 2 additional coronavirus cases but 2 more deaths. The number of identified coronavirus cases in Hawaii inched upward to 586 Tuesday based on two new positive test results, while the number of COVID-19 deaths in the state reached 12. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 Death Toll Reaches 12. Two men over the age of 65 died late Monday evening due to coronavirus complications. Civil Beat.

State reports 2 new COVID-19 fatalities, bringing Hawaii’s death toll to 12. The state is reporting two more COVID-19 fatalities in Hawaii, in a grim reminder that while the daily case count from the disease is on the decline many remain very ill. Hawaii News Now.

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She’s Running Hawaii’s Virus Response. But Should We Trust Her? Here’s a deeper look at State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park, why she’s made certain decisions and why some medical professionals think she’s wrong. Civil Beat.

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Report: Dramatic cuts to state worker pay would hurt Hawaii’s already-ailing economy. University of Hawaii researchers are warning proposed pay cuts of up to 20% for state workers could hurt the state’s already-ailing economy. Hawaii News Now.

Public worker union urges Ige to borrow from feds instead of cutting workers’ pay. The head of the state’s largest public worker union is urging Gov. David Ige to borrow money from the federal government if necessary to avoid deep pay cuts for public workers, and U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said Tuesday he also wants to explore the borrowing option to help close a $1.5 billion state budget shortfall caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Governor David Ige Address To State Employees. The governor posted a video address aimed at state employees, in which he thanks everyone for their efforts, and said no decisions have been made regarding salary reductions. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaii unemployment checks, except for gig workers, will include extra $600 federal weekly payment starting Wednesday. So far more than 244,000 Hawaii filings have been made in the wake of COVID-19. That’s overwhelmed the antiquated system and created lengthy waits. Some Hawaii applicants fear the money will run out before they get what’s owed to them. Star-Advertiser.

State labor director gives update on unemployment system, benefits. Hawaii workers already receiving unemployment benefits because of the COVID-19 pandemic should start receiving their $600 weekly “plus-up” payments in addition to their regular claim payments starting today. Tribune-Herald.

Stay at home extension will stress unemployment funds, but federal assistance is on the way. With the City and County of Honolulu’s stay at home order extended until at least May 31st, many of the state’s over 240,000 unemployed or partially unemployed residents are going to continue to need benefits from the state and federal government. KHON2.

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Experts Warn Against Using Antibody Tests As It Becomes Available In Hawaii. Antibody tests may be the key to learning how far COVID-19 has spread in Hawaii, and to getting people back to work. However, the state Department of Health doesn’t think the currently available tests are reliable. Hawaii Public Radio.

Our DC Delegation At Home: Cooking, Yardwork, Surfing And Politics. Each member of Hawaii’s federal delegation has taken on a different role as the federal government struggles to respond to the growing coronavirus pandemic. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Airlines brings in 1.6 million face masks. A Hawaiian Airlines passenger plane whose 3,920-cubic-foot belly was filled with protective masks for Hawaii’s people has landed. Star-Advertiser.

Earth Day turns 50. Both Earth Day and the Clean Air Act turn 50 years old today, and American Lung Association marked the occasion by releasing their annual State of the Air report, which gives states and counties a letter grade on air quality. Garden Island.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell reopening city parks for exercise, extending Honolulu stay-at-home order. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Tuesday that he is extending Oahu’s stay-at-home, work-from-home order “with modifications” through May and is reopening city parks — for exercise only — beginning at 5 a.m. Saturday. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell Extends Oahu Stay At Home Order To May 31. The city also wants to ramp up its testing capacity by providing community health centers with more test kits. Civil Beat.

O‘ahu Extends Mandatory Lockdown Through May. Honolulu County Mayor Kirk Caldwell will extend O‘ahu’s shelter-in-place order through May 31, he announced at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. Big Island Now.

City extends stay-at-home order through May 31, but will reopen parks for exercise. Mayor Kirk Caldwell is extending the city’s stay-at-home order through May 31, but says city parks will reopen Saturday for limited exercise activities. Hawaii News Now.

All 300 Oahu city parks to reopen on Saturday for exercise only. Users are allowed to walk, jog, run or bike, but no gathering. KITV4.

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Honolulu police arrest 91 in connection with coronavirus emergency violations. Honolulu police have issued 7,801 warnings and 3,010 citations to date for violations of the emergency order for the coronavirus outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

Tourists' IG posts get them busted for breaking 14-day quarantine. Frustrated Hawaii residents are turning to social media to identify and report people violating COVID-19 restrictions and bragging about it on social media. KITV4.

Visitors Arrested On Oahu For Violating Quarantine. Two visitors staying in Waikiki were arrested Tuesday morning for violating the state’s mandatory 14-day quarantine for all travelers, according to the COVID-19 Joint Information Center. Civil Beat.

Two visitors arrested in Waikiki for violating coronavirus self-quarantine. A 34-year-old woman from Las Vegas and a 33-year-old man from Sydney, Australia were arrested Tuesday morning for violating the emergency rules put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors arrested for violating emergency rules on Oahu. Four more visitors were arrested this morning on Oahu for violating emergency rules. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Kim’s new mask rule more strict than governor’s proclamation. A new emergency rule announced by Mayor Harry Kim requires essential businesses to refuse service to customers who do not wear face masks or coverings. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Island Mayor Harry Kim issues strict rules in response to coronavirus. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim today issued a new emergency rule mandating that all customers age 5 and older wear face masks or coverings before entering essential businesses or riding the bus, among other requirements. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Kim Issues New Rule Mandating Face Masks At Businesses. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Harry Kim on Tuesday signed a new emergency rule (No. 3) that mandates face masks at businesses, discourages hoarding of essentials, and details how employees must take action if they experience symptoms of illness. Big Island Video News.

Kim Institutes Strict Face Mask, Hand Sanitizing Policies on Big Island. Hawai‘i County Mayor Harry Kim bolstered a state mandate to wear face masks in public with a county Rule of his own. Big Island Now.

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Prolonged rainfall triggered Kilauea eruption, study finds. It was excessive and prolonged rainfall that triggered the 2018 eruption of Kilauea Volcano, according to new research due out today. Star-Advertiser.

FEMA Awards $61 Million To Rebuild Lava Covered Roads In Puna. Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz today announced that Hawaiʻi County will be able to use the money to repair roads damaged during the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Big Island Video News.

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Higa announces mayoral bid: Former County Council chairman and public TV CEO says strong leadership needed. Former County Council Chairman Stacy Higa is throwing his hat into an increasingly crowded ring for mayor. West Hawaii Today.

Kona roller derby team members raise funds, purchase 1,000 N95 masks for health care workers. Members of the Echo City Knockouts Roller Derby Team are ready to make their first donation of 1,000 N95 masks to Big Island health facilities. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor: Police Will Not Issue Citations for Walking or Running on Maui Beaches. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he will not be issuing citations for people that run or walk on the beach because there is no clear delineation on what’s a state beach and what’s a county beach. Maui Now.

Despite state order, Maui’s mayor tells his residents it’s OK to exercise on the beach. Maui County’s mayor said Tuesday that exercising on the beach is fine with him, and police in his jurisdiction won’t cite anyone walking or running on the sand. Hawaii News Now.

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Maui Memorial works to improve communication, safety policies amid cluster of cases. To some longtime staff members at Maui Memorial Medical Center, the April 6 revelation that at least 15 employees had tested positive for COVID-19 — and the maelstrom of controversy and recrimination that followed — was as predictable as it was distressing. Star-Advertiser.

New Maui COVID-19 death is first tied to hospital outbreak; two more new cases in Maui County. State health officials said this morning that there were two more coronavirus deaths reported late Monday, one on Oahu and one on Maui, and that the Maui fatality is linked to the hospital’s outbreak. Maui News.

Kauai

Kaua'i County mayor already working on plans to reopen the Garden Isle's economy. After just four positive coronavirus cases were confirmed Monday, many are wondering when our local economy might open back up. KITV4.

Ige declares Kauai disaster area after March flooding. Gov. David Ige has declared Kauai a disaster area following the flooding on the island late last month. Star-Advertiser.

Kahili Quarry Road closed. A large sinkhole around a culvert under Kahili Road has triggered the closure of the dirt road access to the north side of the Kilauea River, an area that local residents have taken under their wing by forming the Kahili Community Stewardship Area. Garden Island.

Doctors sound the alarm on Hawaii coronavirus risk, counties lack medical facilities, most mayors closing parks, restaurants, Kauai imposes curfew, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

A hospital in Hawaii, public domain photo

All 16 Hawaii coronavirus cases related to travel; ‘no evidence of community spread,’ health officials say. The state Department of Health said today that the two new cases of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, are Oahu residents who had traveled outside Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii medical professionals ask Gov. David Ige to mandate extreme social distancing measures. Nearly 100 Hawaii doctors and medical providers are imploring Gov. David Ige to mandate the shutdown of all non-essential businesses and order residents to stay home to stop the rapidly spreading coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Medical Community Urges Ige To Mandate Business Closures, Keep People Home. In a letter, 94 local doctors and health professionals urged Governor David Ige to immediately take more decisive action to limit the spread of COVID-19. Big Island Video News.

Are Hawaii Hospitals Prepared For A Pandemic? The state health director says Hawaii’s hospitals are already near capacity, with expansion difficult. Oahu hospitals have 477 ventilators, Kauai County has 18 ventilators, Maui County has 27, and Hawaii Island has 39. Civil Beat.

Green criticizes lack of testing as Hawaii cases rise. State public health officials think community spread will eventually occur in Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

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Public schools to close through early April as state scrambles to stop spread of coronavirus. The state plans to close schools through early April as part of a massive effort to stem the spread of the coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Classrooms Not Scheduled To Reopen Until April 7. The Department of Education update means six more instructional days are canceled. Civil Beat.

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Despite governor’s plea, visitors are still coming ... and crowding into eateries. Despite government warnings not to travel, many visitors are arriving at Honolulu’s airport for spring break vacations. They’re also gathering in enclosed spaces. Hawaii News Now.

1 in 4 hotel workers could lose their jobs. About 1 in 4 workers in hotel-supported jobs in Hawaii could lose their jobs in the next six months as the COVID-19 pandemic attacks the health of the state’s tourist economy. Star-Advertiser.

Number of unemployment claims statewide doubled in just 24 hours. The number of unemployment claims statewide doubled in just 24 hours from 1,500 claims to 3,000 claims on Tuesday. KITV4.

Hawaii Unemployment Website Glitches As Applications Surge. Hospitality workers and service-industry workers are losing their jobs as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens. Civil Beat.

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Counties implement their own restrictions. The state Department of Health clarified Wednesday that “while these are not mandates with consequences for non-compliance, these directives require the cooperation of businesses, organizations and individuals to be effective from a public health perspective". Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Mayors’ Responses to COVID-19 Differ Starkly. Big Island Now.

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Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard suspending presidential campaign, will support Joe Biden. Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard on Thursday announced she’s suspending her presidential campaign and will offer her support to former Vice President Joe Biden. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai'i Representative Tulsi Gabbard suspends campaign for president. In a statement to her supporters, US Representative Tulsi Gabbard announced that she is suspending her campaign to secure the Democratic presidential nomination. KITV4.

Gabbard Hosts Telephone Town Hall For Hawaiʻi Residents. This afternoon, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) hosted a telephone town hall for over 10,000 Hawai‘i residents where she was joined by Hawaiʻi Lt. Governor Josh Green, a practicing physician who has served as the state’s lead official coordinating its COVID-19 coronavirus response. Maui Now.

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Programs Emerge To Help Borrowers, Small Businesses Cope With COVID-19 Crisis. A former state attorney general says it’s important for people and small businesses to know their rights. Civil Beat.

New $2.5M Hawaii Fund Aims To Help Nonprofits With Coronavirus Pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic is leading to job losses, quarantines and lots of uncertainty in the Aloha State. Civil Beat.

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Hawaiian Airlines deepens cuts to nearly 40% systemwide. Hawaiian Airlines on Wednesday night deepened its systemwide flight reductions to nearly 40% in April as COVID-19 cases spread in Hawaii, resulting in restrictions that put downward pressure on travel. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines further cuts flights to adjust for lower demand. Hawaiian Airlines announced they were continuing to cut back on flight offerings amid declining demand due to the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Airlines Reduces Flight Schedule Systemwide. As COVID-19 cases, (and government restrictions) increase, Hawaiian Airlines is making further adjustments to its network. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Caldwell orders restaurants closed except for takeout, drive-thru and delivery. Oahu restaurants and bars will be able to offer only takeout, drive-thru or delivery food services — or otherwise need to shut their doors — under a new and sweeping emergency proclamation issued Wednesday by Mayor Kirk Caldwell. Star-Advertiser.

Last Call: Caldwell Orders Bars, Restaurants To Restrict Service Starting Friday. The mayor also closed city parks and other public facilities. Civil Beat.

City orders restaurants, bars and night clubs to close dine-in services for 15 days. Honolulu’s mayor is widening his closures of city facilities to prevent the spread of coronavirus, and has ordered restaurants, bars and clubs to close dine-in services. Hawaii News Now.

City mandates all Oahu restaurants, bars and nightclubs to cease indoor service. The Chairman of the Hawaii Restaurant Association, Tom Jones, said the impact could see about half of the restaurant employees without work. KHON2.

Mayor orders Honolulu restaurants, bars to close indoor dining for 15 days to stop COVID spread. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday signed a supplemental COVID-19 proclamation ordering all restaurants, bars and nightclubs on Oahu to close indoor services starting Friday for 15 days as Hawaii deals with the coronavirus pandemic. Pacific Business News.

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City parks closing until the end of April. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced today all City and County of Honolulu parks will be closed until April 30. KHON2.

City closes all city parks, golf courses and Honolulu Zoo. Honolulu’s mayor is widening its closures of city facilities to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Hawaii News Now.

Some are practicing social distancing, others are ignoring warnings, what is being done to protect residents? On Wednesday, Waikiki Beach was completely packed with people who were obviously closer together than six feet. KHON2.

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Officials say passengers, crew must remain on 2 cruise ships heading to Honolulu. Hawaii Department of Transportation officials said Wednesday afternoon that two cruise ships carrying thousands of passengers and crew members will be allowed to dock at Honolulu Harbor, but no one on board will be allowed to leave the ships. Star-Advertiser.

2 Cruise Ships Turned Away By Other Ports Head To Honolulu. Two cruise ships turned away by other ports are headed to Honolulu. Associated Press.

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Rotary International cancels June convention, which would have brought 20,000 visitors to Honolulu. The Rotary International Convention, the state’s largest piece of group business this year, has canceled its plans to come to Hawaii in June. Star-Advertiser.

2 Oahu men arrested for illegal harvest of nearly 785 Opihi. Two Oahu residents were cited by DLNR conservation officers after they were allegedly caught picking hundreds of opihi from rocks in a marine life conservation area. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii men arrested for illegal harvest of nearly 800 opihi. The men were charged with a petty misdemeanor and if convicted could be fined or face jail time. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Cleanliness is next to productivity: Kim vows county will remain open for business. Office doors are propped open and the buildings reek of bleach and disinfectant. But coronavirus or no, Hawaii County is open for business and Mayor Harry Kim intends to keep it that way. West Hawaii Today.

Hawai‘i County Parks, Beaches to Remain Open as Mayor Kim Creates Cleanliness Task Force. Hawai‘i County has no plans to close down its public parks and beaches in response to the COVID-19 outbreak across the state, Mayor Harry Kim said Wednesday. Big Island Now.

Council schedules emergency meeting: Videoconference meeting to address COVID-19; emailed public testimony encouraged. West Hawaii Today.

Waimea hospital expanding COVID-19 testing to six days a week. he Waimea facility will now offer drive-up testing for patient’s with physician’s orders at the entrance to Queen’s North Hawaii Community Hospital Primary Care Clinic Monday through Saturday. West Hawaii Today.

Popular Hilo eateries begin laying off employees. Some East Hawaii restaurants are following Gov. David Ige’s Tuesday recommendation to move to a takeout/delivery service model during the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis, while other eateries are choosing to continue their dining room operations. Tribune-Herald.

‘It’s the right thing to do’: Local restaurants adjust operations amid coronavirus. For many West Hawaii restaurants, it was business as usual Wednesday; however some are heeding Gov. David Ige’s suggestion to switch to carry-out service amid the coronavirus pandemic. West Hawaii Today.


Maui

Mayor Victorino Announces Public Health Emergency Rules for Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced a number of Public Health Emergency Rules effective as of 7:45 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2020, directed toward limiting the gathering of groups of people and curtailing vehicular transportation except for essential activities or operation of essential business or government functions, such as travel to and from work and medical appointments. Maui Now.

Maui Mayor Victorino announces new rules for Valley Isle residents. Maui Mayor Mike Victorino “greatly encouraged” families to shelter in place to help stop the spread of coronavirus. On Wednesday, the county took similar steps as Oahu in ordering all bars, nightclubs, theaters, and tourist attractions to close by Friday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Victorino announces Public Health Emergency Rules for Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced a number of Public Health Emergency Rules effective as of 7:45 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2020, directed toward limiting the gathering of groups of people and curtailing vehicular transportation except for essential activities or operation of essential business or government functions, such as travel to and from work and medical appointments. KITV4.

Recreational options for families on break dwindle because of virus. County open-air parks closed; theaters dark; food donations needed. Maui News.

Clerks to reschedule court cases. Clerks helped people reschedule their District and Family Court cases, and some inmates appeared by videoconference for court hearings, as measures were implemented Tuesday in 2nd Circuit Court to minimize the risk of spreading COVID-19. Maui News.

Maui Permitting Agencies Announce Revised Procedures Due to COVID-19. The County of Maui’s key permitting departments have announced revised procedures for permit applications and inquiries due to COVID-19 impacts. Maui Now.


Hāna Highway (Route 360) Restricted to Local Traffic Until Further Notice. The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation informs the traveling public that Hāna Highway (Route 360) between Kapakalua Road and Hāna Town is restricted to local traffic until further notice beginning March 18, 2020. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai mayor issues mandatory curfew, limits airline travel to essential needs only. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami today announced he has implemented an islandwide nighttime curfew beginning Friday. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai mayor implements island-wide curfew to reduce spread of COVID-19. Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami initiated an island-wide curfew on Wednesday in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Pacific Business News.

Kawakami: “Kaua‘i is on Vacation”; Implements Nighttime Curfew Starting Friday. Kauaʻi Mayor Derek S.K Kawakami has implemented, via emergency rule, an islandwide nighttime curfew beginning Friday, March 20. Maui Now.

Molokai

Molokai residents protest at airport. On Molokai on March 18 dozens gathered outside the airport with signs urging visitors to go away. KHON2.

Hawaii governor asks tourists to stay away, restaurants, bars, libraries close, state employees to stay home, more COVID-19 news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii pool party in pre-COVID days ©2020 All Hawaii News

Ige calls for tourism halt for 30 days. Gov. David Ige on Tuesday took the extraordinary step of asking all visitors planning to come to Hawaii to postpone their trips for the next 30 days and reschedule “for another date” to curb the further spread of the new coronavirus across the islands. Star-Advertiser.

State Wants Tourists To Postpone Visits As Coronavirus Cases Climb to 14. Gov. David Ige said today the state is encouraging tourists to temporarily postpone their Hawaii visits and will screen cruise ship passengers for the coronavirus starting on Friday while working on similar thermal screening at the airport. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ige urges visitors to stay away for 30 days; all non-essential state workers to stay home. Amid growing fears that the coronavirus is spreading in the community, the governor issued a host of new orders and guidelines Tuesday, directing all non-essential state workers to stay home, asking visitors to stay away, and directing bars to close. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. Ige lays out plan for “15 Days to Slow the Spread of COVID-19”. KHON2.

Gov Issues COVID-19 Directives, “Encourages” Visitors To Postpone Vacations. Hawaiʻi Governor David Ige is promoting "15 Days to Slow the Spread" of COVID-19, directing certain closures and "encouraging" visitors to postpone their vacations. Big Island Video News.

Ige asks would-be travelers to avoid Hawaii; all cruise passengers to be screened. Gov. David Ige on Tuesday urged potential visitors to the islands to postpone their vacations for at least 30 days as part of what he called “strong measures to secure our islands” from the global coronavirus pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

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Restaurants and bars to shut-down dine-in by governor’s request. Governor David Ige is requesting for bars, restaurants and other businesses to make changes to only operate as a drive-through, pick-up or delivery and close down their dining areas for the next 15 days as an effort to slow down the spread of coronavirus. KHON2.

Bars closed, restaurants dine-out only. Governor David Ige closed churches, clubs, theaters and bars statewide on Tuesday, limited restaurants to drive-through, take-out, pick-up or delivery only and limited social gatherings to 10 people or less to follow Centers for Disease Control guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19. Garden Island.

Full text of Gov. David Ige’s announcement of ‘aggressive action’ to fight coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Tourism shocks could cost tens of thousands of jobs. Gov. David Ige’s call for tourists to postpone trips to Hawaii for the next 30 days could lead to the closure of some hotels and job losses for tens of thousands of workers, according to one industry expert. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Biggest Industry Is Reeling As The Coronavirus Spreads. Hawaii’s hotel and service industry workers are losing their jobs as COVID-19 pummels the state’s tourist industry. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Governor Wants Bars And Clubs To Close Or Cut Back. Many state employees are also being directed to work from home. Civil Beat.

Ige directs bars to close, shift restaurants to takeout. To date, Hawaii has recorded 14 positive cases of the new coronavirus. Officials have closed schools and facilities and postponed events to prevent the disease from spreading widely in the community and overwhelming the health-care system. Associated Press.

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HSTA files grievance over Hawaii DOE’s plan to call teachers back next week. The union representing Hawaii’s public school teachers is challenging a decision by the state Department of Education to require teachers to work during the second week of the extended two-week spring break. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Teachers Union Files Complaint Against DOE, Governor. The union says the state’s plan to have teachers back in the classroom next week and kids the week after is too soon. Civil Beat.

HSTA files complaint over plan for teachers to return to school next week. Governor David Ige said public school students will be back to school on March 30th, but teachers, who are scheduled to be back in school next week say that’s too soon. KHON2.

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Foodland, Foodland Farms, Sack N Save and Target to have special shopping hours for seniors. All Foodland, Foodland Farms and Sack N Save stores statewide will serve only seniors during their first hour of business on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, allowing them to shop in less crowded conditions as those around the state stock up during the COVID-19 outbreak. Star-Advertiser.

Businesses, community members extend a helping hand to kupuna as virus spreads. Some businesses and community members noticed how busy lines and empty shelves could leave Hawaii’s seniors without necessary supplies. KHON2.

Blood Bank of Hawaii Calls for Donations as COVID-19 Creates Nationwide Shortage. Hawai‘i’s blood supply is dropping fast as concern over the spread of COVID-19 has led to the cancellation of nearly 30 blood drives that had been scheduled through May. Hawaii Business.

Protocols urged before visits to remote screening sites. As testing for COVID-19 ramps up across the state, health officials and medical providers are encouraging residents to follow proper screening protocols to prevent overtaxing limited health care resources. Star-Advertiser.

Holland America Line cruise ship’s crew disembarks in Honolulu. A Holland America Line cruise ship, the Westerdam, moored at Pier 2, arrived Monday and was scheduled to depart at 5 p.m. Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Unemployment claims soar as tourism comes to a standstill, business close. The state saw an additional 1,490 unemployment claims Monday. That one-day total, surpassed the total from the previous week. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii construction industry may ease virus economic impact. Hawaii’s construction industry could soften the blow to the state’s economy during the continuing spread of the new coronavirus, analysts and business leaders said. Hawaii News Now.

This Hawaii Defense Contractor Has Emerged As A Major Political Player. Navatek’s strategy has paid off. It’s received millions of dollars in federal contracts with the help of members of Congress throughout the country. Civil Beat.

Schatz Backs Kahele For Congress At Washington Fundraiser. Hawaii’s senior senator was the “special guest” at an event to boost the state senator’s campaign to replace U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Iwilei building could become quarantine center for coronavirus-infected homeless. Discussions are underway to triage and quarantine homeless people who test positive for the novel coronavirus in a 26-room, three-story building behind the Institute for Human Services’ women’s shelter on Kaamahu Place in Iwilei. Star-Advertiser.

City: We’ll continue to conduct sweeps amid coronavirus outbreak. The city says it will continue to conduct homeless sweeps as it responds to the coronavirus pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Aloha Stadium suspends operations, putting events in jeopardy. After earlier projecting a $1.16 million profit for the current fiscal year, Aloha Stadium officials are now trying to assess how much of a hit they might take from closing the facility for the four weeks. Star-Advertiser.

St. Andrew’s Schools Extends Spring Break and Moves to Distance Learning. St. Andrew’s Schools is extending spring break across all campuses. KITV4.

Windward Mall alters hours of operation in response to COVID-19. Windward Mall’s management team will continue to monitor local public health and CDC channels for information and will be sure to share information as it becomes available. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Council closing meetings: Meeting live-streams to continue, but no oral testimony. They say you can’t fight city hall. In these uncertain times, you can hardly even go there. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Kim Sends Message On County Policy After State COVID-19 Directives. All County employees are to report to work as scheduled, says Mayor Harry Kim, and Big Island restaurants, bars, and places of worship may make their own decision as to whether they stay open or close. Big Island Video News.

Big Island has first confirmed COVID-19 case. A visitor from the mainland is the first confirmed Big Island case, state Epidemiologist Sarah Park said Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Waimea Urgent Care Tentatively Closes; COVID-19 Testing Sites Open Islandwide. Waimea Urgent Care has tentatively closed until April 1, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues its spread. Big Island Now.

Drive-through virus testing begins in Hilo. Thirty-five people were tested for COVID-19 on Tuesday during Hilo Medical Center’s first day of drive-through testing. Tribune-Herald.

21 tested for COVID-19 at community health center. The nonprofit health center, which serves 25% of West Hawaii’s population, said it began testing patients on Thursday. West Hawaii Today.

DLNR Closes Big Island State Parks, Announces Several Statewide Mass Closures. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and risks of its potential spread, the Hawai‘i Department of Land and Natural Resources has announced several closures, including state parks across the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Kona couple quarantined in California after getting off ship with cluster of COVID-19 cases. A couple from Kona is quarantined in California after getting off a cruise ship stricken with a cluster of coronavirus cases. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

Maui Senators Update Constituents as Legislative Session is Suspended. Hawai’i State senators from Maui released a video Monday afternoon announcing the suspension of senate sessions. Maui Now.

Maui doctors call for free regional testing center. Physicians: Clinics don’t have staff, resources to handle influx of patients. Maui News.

Third case of COVID-19 reported on Maui. A third person on Maui has tested positive for COVID-19, the state Department of Health said on Tuesday afternoon. Maui News.

Businesses reduce hours while some go on total hiatus. Regal Cinemas in Maui Mall is temporarily closing while theater at QKC remains open. Maui News.

Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i COVID-19 Update for Residents to be Live Streamed Friday. The County of Maui will be providing COVID-19 updates to Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi residents on Friday via a live stream on Akakū Maui Community Television, Channel 53 and the County of Maui Facebook page. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kauai underwater from Westside to Northshore. On Tuesday morning, a Hanalei resident Kevin Horgan and his wife woke up to about four feet of water flooding the bottom floor of their house, which is located on Weke Road across from the newly rebuilt Blackpot Beach Park. Garden Island.

Ballistic missile radar coming to Oahu, Kim meets with Ige, Thirty Meter Telescope officials, Honolulu opens traffic center, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

This Aug. 29, 2017, photo provided by the Department of Defense shows a medium-range ballistic missile target is launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. PC:Latonja Martin

Military leaders, community debate merits of high-powered ballistic missile radar on Oahu. Military leaders are talking about the need for a permanent, high-powered ballistic missile radar on Oahu to see threats to Hawaii and our nation. The Missile Defense Agency wants to build a flat facing radar that three times bigger than the one at the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii government might collect an additional $74M in taxes. A panel of experts tasked with projecting how much the state will collect in taxes has boosted its projection for next year by 1 percentage point, which means lawmakers should have an extra $74 million to spend. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Traffic center finally opens. At long last, the folks tasked with receiving emergency response calls, monitoring traffic and disasters and related duties will be housed under one roof in the $53.6 million Joint Traffic Management Center on Alapai Street, which was dedicated Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Finally Gets Its Joint Traffic Management Center. The facility was supposed to open three years ago but ran into construction issues. Civil Beat.

City’s $54M Traffic Management Center to welcome its first tenants (finally). A blessing was held Thursday at the city’s Joint Traffic Management Center as it prepares to welcome its first tenants. Hawaii News Now.

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Kamehameha Schools project looks to develop 11,000 homes and cost $4B. About 2,000 acres in Waiawa once largely planted in sugar cane is envisioned for a community with 11,109 homes under a conceptual plan by the state’s largest private landowner. Star-Advertiser.

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After public outcry, city reverses two controversial plans in Waikiki. Plans to ban overnight parking at the Honolulu Zoo parking lot have been postponed “until further notice.” The city also said it would remove one of the two fences that it recently installed on Christmas Eve to block access to the walkway between Leahi and Makalei parks at Diamond Head. Hawaii News Now.

Fence Blocking Diamond Head Seawall Will Be Removed. The city says it will remove one of the two barriers that are blocking the public’s access along the path. Civil Beat.

Makalei Beach Park fence to be removed. The fence installed at Makalei Beach Park between the park and the makai walkway will be removed after public input and discussion. KHON2.

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After months-long delay, EPA to begin removing toxic soil under Kalihi street this month. Efforts to remove lead-contaminated soil under a street in Kalhi will finally begin this month. Hawaii News Now.

E. coli contamination confirmed in Waiahole water system. Residents in Waiahole Valley are being told to boil their tap water before use due to E. coli contamination. KHON2.

Volunteers needed for annual homeless point-in-time count. The survey counts sheltered and un-sheltered homeless persons on a single night in January. KITV4.

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Sheehan Out As Honolulu Police Commission Chair. Loretta Sheehan has led the commission through much of the federal corruption probe. Civil Beat.

Sheehan is replaced as Honolulu Police Commission chairwoman. In the annual election to select the chairman and vice chairman, Sheehan was outvoted 5-2 by Alivado, who was serving as vice chairwoman. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police Commissioner voted out. The commission that oversees the Honolulu Police Department is moving in a new direction. KHON2.

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Olive Garden to open at Ala Moana Center. Olive Garden is planning its first Hawaii location at Ala Moana Center. Star-Advertiser.

Olive Garden to open first Hawaii restaurant in Bubba Gump space. Restaurant chain Olive Garden Italian Kitchen plans to open its first Hawaii restaurant in Honolulu at Ala Moana Center, where it will replace the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurant at the state's largest shopping mall. Pacific Business News.

Olive Garden files for permit to build first Hawaii location at Ala Moana Center. uilding permits applications filed with the City and County of Honolulu this week appear to show that Olive Garden, the popular mainland Italian eatery, is planning to open a restaurant at Ala Moana Center. Hawaii News Now.

Longtime local restaurant, Willows, to be revived. The Willows is being revived by the owners of the restaurant, Da Spot. KHON2.

Hawaii Island

Kim meets with TMT officials, governor; ongoing discussions planned. Two weeks after Thirty Meter Telescope opponents relinquished control of the Maunakea Access Road, both sides are wondering what the next moves will be. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi County Mayor Meets With TMT Officials About Mauna Kea's Future. Hawaiʻi Island Mayor Harry Kim met with Thirty Meter Telescope officials this week to discuss next steps in resolving the Mauna Kea dispute. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Hawaii Island Has Decades of Landfill Space But Still Faces Challenges In Dealing With Its Waste. Hawaii Island is in the enviable position of having a landfill with anywhere from 20 to 100 years of capacity left to take in trash. Hawaii Public Radio.

State taking over surf school setup. The state is now taking the lead on permitting commercial surf schools at Kahaluu Bay, a recently filed report to the state Legislature shows. West Hawaii Today.

Problem spot on Alii has been on county’s radar for years, without success. The undermining of the seawall on Alii Drive at Oneo bay where the latest sinkhole appears has been a problem for over a decade. West Hawaii Today.

Waimea Middle Will Get Back Withheld Settlement Money. The Charter School Commission voted Thursday to reinstate the $75,000. Civil Beat.

Macy’s closing Kings’ Shops location. It is the only Macy’s location in the Aloha State closing. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Alberta de Jetley to run for Lanai council seat. Gabe Johnson to campaign again; Riki Hokama is facing term limits. Maui News.

State Harbors Division Seeks Expansion of Cargo Storage in Kahului. The state Department of Transportation Harbors Division is proposing the acquisition of nine acres from Alexander & Baldwin in Kahului for the expansion of its storage yard for short-term containerized cargo. Maui Now.

Waste-To-Energy Plants Stalled in Maui County While Landfills Approach Capacity. Far from the view of the nearly three million visitors who travel to Maui County each year are two landfills that are filling up fast and approaching the end of their lifespans. Hawaii Public Radio.

Senior center at Hale Mahaolu Ewalu blessed. 22-unit Phase II of housing development’s construction underway. Maui News.

Jan Dapitan was ‘force of nature’ for environment and social causes. Ex-parks director dies after 5-year battle with cancer. Maui News.

Kauai

Housing on LBA agenda. Kauai housing, issues and answers, is the subject of the Lihue Business Association’s meeting 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at Duke’s Canoe Club on Kalapaki Beach. Garden Island.

Baby fish eating plastic off Hawaii, $214M bond floated for Honolulu rail, half of workers say they're sexually harassed, Anheuser-Busch buys Kona Brewing Co., more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Scribbled filefish in sea of plastics sampled in surface slicks off Hawaii Island. NOAA/David Liitschwager

Study Confirms Plastics Are Threatening Fish Nurseries. Tiny bits of plastics are threatening fish nurseries in Hawaii, and likely around the globe. That's according to the latest study from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center. Hawaii Public Radio.

Recent evidence has shown that adult fish are eating plastics in the ocean and suffering from perils such as malnutrition and toxicant buildup. Now, for the first time, a study conducted in Hawaii shows baby fish are ingesting tiny plastics, too. Star-Advertiser.

Researchers find microplastics in the stomachs of baby mahimahi, other species off Hawaii. A new study released Monday says baby fish around Hawaii are eating a large amount of plastic particles. Hawaii News Now.

Researchers find plastic in baby fish on Big Island. A troubling discovery announced on Monday, researchers found plastic in baby-fish in waters off the Big Island. KITV.

Fish in study found to be eating fibers thought to come from everyday laundry. Larval fish off the coast of Kona are eating plastics at an alarming rate, according to a study published Monday in a national scientific journal. Tribune-Herald.

Study: Plastics plague Pacific fish. A new study on the Pacific Ocean’s floating trash indicates not only a significant accumulation of microplastics in the Hawaiian Islands, but that larval fish are eating the debris. Garden Island.

NOAA fisheries report on the plastic research can be found here.

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Half of isle adults claim sexual harassment, survey finds. Nearly half of adults have experienced sexual harassment while working in Hawaii, a new statewide survey suggests. Star-Advertiser.

Nearly Half Of Hawaii Workers Say They’ve Been Sexually Harassed. People who grew up in Hawaii were much less likely to report any sexual harassment they experienced. Civil Beat.

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Meth Deaths Soar in Hawaii Even As Opioids Grab Public Attention. Meth-related overdose fatalities have significantly outpaced other drug overdose deaths in the the past five years. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Council, Caldwell OK rail bond spending. Without the fanfare of past similar votes, the Honolulu City Council and Mayor Kirk Caldwell signed off on a bill clearing the way for the city to spend up to $214 million in taxpayer dollars for the over-budget $9.2 billion East Kapolei-to-Ala Moana rail project. Star-Advertiser.

Another push to impeach city Prosecutor Kaneshiro gains traction. Organizers filed more than 500 signatures collected online with docushare and in person. Hawaii News Now.

Who stole the Kealohas’ mailbox? 6 years later, prosecutors could finally find out. Katherine Kealoha’s plea deal requires that she cooperate with federal prosecutors — without limitations or restrictions. Hawaii News Now.

Queen’s Medical Center On ‘Losing End’ Of Battle With Meth. Some days, as many 40% of people admitted at the ER in Punchbowl have problems related to meth use, according to hospital officials. Civil Beat.

Republican Party of Hawaii looking forward to 2020. American Conservative Activist Scott Presler promised high energy during his speech. KITV.

Hawaii Island

Will Mayor Harry Kim run for re-election? That’s the question on a lot of people’s minds with the campaign qualifying season set to commence in less than three months. West Hawaii Today.

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Anheuser-Busch to buy out Kona Brewing parent company. Kona Brewing Co. is soon to become wholly owned by beer giant Anheuser-Busch. West Hawaii Today.

Anheuser-Busch to acquire all of Kona Brewing Co. Kona Brewing Co. is slated to become wholly owned by beer company behemoth Anheuser-Busch under a deal announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Anheuser-Busch to Take Full Ownership of Kona Brew. Anheuser-Busch currently owns 31% of Kona Brewing Company. Big Island Now.

Anheuser-Busch to buy out owner of Kona Brewing Company. Anheuser-Busch, the folks who produce big brands like Budweiser and Stella Artois, announced Monday that they plan to buy out Craft Brew Alliance, the Portland-based craft brewing company that owns Kona Brewing as well as a number of other small brands. Hawaii News Now.

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Man arrested following fatal head-on crash had prior DUI conviction. A 25-year-old Waimea man Sunday arrested on suspicion of negligent homicide and DUI following a two-car crash near Ke Kahakai State Park that killed a 35-year-old mother and hospitalized three girls has a prior conviction for drunken driving. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Supreme Court Recordings Reveal Justices Struggling To Find Answer in Maui Case. During an hour-long hearing on the Maui Clean Water Act case, the U.S. Supreme Court justices seemed to be seeking a legal path to keep polluters from skirting the law without ensnaring ordinary homeowners. Hawaii Public Radio.

Farmers convention growing the good stuff. Knowledge-sharing draws hundreds to Puunene event. Maui News.

Kula Community Association Meeting This Wednesday. The Kula Community Association is inviting all Maui residents to its community meeting this Wednesday. Maui Now.

Kauai

Surfrider releases latest water test results. These are the latest results for this month’s Surfrider Foundation Blue Water Task Force sampling of our Kauai waters for Enterococcus, a fecal indicating bacteria, on Nov. 9. Garden Island.

East Kauai Irrigation System to revert to DLNR. In 2001, the East Kauai Water Users Cooperative was formed to take over management of the state-owned irrigation system in our area previously operated by Lihue Plantation. Garden Island.

Kim releases Mauna Kea plan, more housing options on Hawaiian Home Lands, Oahu jail project stalls, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Telescopes on Mauna Kea ©2019 All Hawaii News

Kim reveals Mauna Kea plan, which includes TMT. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim officially released his long-awaited plan for resolving the controversy surrounding Mauna Kea on Monday, distributing a pamphlet that asserts that the site designated for the Thirty Meter Telescope will become the last area of the mountain that is ever developed for a telescope. Star-Advertiser.

Big Island Mayor Calls For Restructuring Management On Mauna Kea. Harry Kim’s plan for resolving the TMT standoff makes few new promises, but offers Native Hawaiians a larger voice in determining the future of the mountain. Civil Beat.

Kim Releases 'Maunakea Booklet' Calling For Core Group To Move Forward. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim issued his long-awaited proposal Monday to resolve the protest against the Thirty Meter Telescope on Mauna Kea, calling for a "core group" as a next step to provide future direction. Hawaii Public Radio.

Mayor unveils Maunakea document that includes policy ‘pledges’ from state officials. Mayor Harry Kim released a proposal Monday for Maunakea that includes pledges from Gov. David Ige and other officials promising to improve Native Hawaiian relations. Tribune-Herald.

Kim Offers ‘Way Forward’ in Maunakea Booklet. On Monday, Mayor Harry Kim released a nine-page PDF that he’s calling his Maunakea Booklet. Big Island Now.

Hawaii County Mayor releases vision for Mauna Kea moving forward. After months of zero construction activity on Mauna Kea, because protestors continue to illegally block access, Mayor Harry Kim has released a booklet on the government’s next move. KHON2.

'The Heart of Aloha': Mayor Kim releases booklet in hopes of moving forward on Mauna Kea. The hope was to bring together the people of Hawaii to find and create a way to move forward 'in a good way.' KITV.

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New DHHL rules allow more housing options. Gov. David Ige on Monday signed new administrative rules that allow the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to develop multifamily, rental and kupuna housing on trust property, providing a new tool that Ige and the state agency say eventually will help address a huge backlog of Native Hawaiians waiting for homestead leases. Star-Advertiser.

Ige OKs Rentals, Multi-Family Units On DHHL Land. The governor says the rules will help ease Hawaii’s affordable housing crisis. Civil Beat.

New DHHL Rules Allow Rentals, More Options. Gov. David Ige today signed new administrative rules for planned communities, multi-family complexes and rental housing within the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Big Island Now.

Hawaiian Homes is Expanding its Housing Options. A new set of rules will allow the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands to offer multi-family units, kūpuna homes, and rental housing options. Maui Now.

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Clare Connors: Hawaii’s Attorney General Is ‘Answering The Call’. She was on the verge of being a federal judge, but stalled in the Senate. Now she’s Hawaii’s top law enforcement officer.  Civil Beat.

Hawaii Is Already Seeing the Consequences of Falling Birthrates. The latest data show that number of babies are being born in Hawaii has been declining for a decade. That follows a national trend of falling birthrates. Hawaii Public Radio.

Teachers Weary Of Pay That Makes It Tough To Stay In The Classroom — Or Hawaii. During a series of DOE “listening sessions,” many teachers drew a connection between salaries and classroom conditions and Hawaii’s teacher shortage. Civil Beat.

Even Free Tuition Isn’t Enough To Attract People To This Hawaii Teacher Program. A three-year-old initiative to train highly qualified teachers in Hawaii isn’t seeing a high number of applications, despite a push to recruit new candidates. Civil Beat.

Controversial Aloha Poke plans on mainland expansion. he Chicago-based Aloha Poke restaurant chain — which infuriated Hawaiians and Hawaii residents last year by trademarking the terms “Aloha” and “Poke” and threatening other businesses also using those terms in their names — plans to expand to 100 restaurants across the mainland within three years. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ala Wai Project Undergoes Changes, State Reiterates Funding Support. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says it will modify designs for a controversial flood control project on Oahu. The public will have a chance to further hear about the Ala Wai Flood Control Project on Tuesday. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Oahu Jail Project Is Stalling Out Over Lack Of Cash, Community Support. OCCC has a five-year master plan, but it’s unclear when the five-year period starts or ends, and nobody wants to pay for it. Civil Beat.

Newly Released Minutes Reveal How Louis Kealoha Got His $250K Buyout. The Honolulu Police Commission recently released minutes from secret meetings where commissioners and city attorneys hashed out a lucrative retirement deal for the former police chief. Civil Beat.

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‘Artifact’ discovered at Sherwood Forest construction site. An investigation by State Historic Preservation Division employees at Sherwood Forest began Monday as arguments continued over the validity of a construction project and its worth to the community. Star-Advertiser.

Historic artifact discovered at Sherwood Forest park project. A find of a historic artifact was reportedly discovered at a city park project in Waimanalo. KITV.

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Senate Panel Approves $16.7M For East-West Center. Sen. Brian Schatz says the institution continues to play “an increasingly important role” in national security and regional cooperation. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. rejects sweeps, pitches idea for master-planned communities for homeless. The Lt. Governor says possible locations are being looked at in Waianae, Waimanalo (across from the beach park) and in the urban core (off Middle Street). Hawaii News Now.

Discrimination lawsuit over dorm-style housing for families filed. The U.S. Justice Department Monday sued a student housing company for discrimination against children and families. Hawaii Student Suites Inc. offers dorm-style housing in several buildings in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Neighborhood Commission chief resigns. The head of the agency that oversees Oahu’s neighborhood board system is stepping down to take a job with the city rail authority. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Farmers Still Need Unique Assistance After Kilauea Eruption, USDA Urged. The Hawaii Congressional Delegation again write to Secretary Of Agriculture Perdue asking for needed relief for Puna farmers. Big Island Video News.

Following more dump closures, officials looking for new ways to bring on staff. Staff shortages continue in the county Department of Environmental Management, this time prompting the closure Monday of two transfer stations and a green waste site in West Hawaii. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Sees Rise in Visitor Spending and Arrivals. Tourists on Maui spent a total of $404.8 million last month, a 14 percent increase from the same time last year. Maui Now.

Tourism spending, arrivals spike on Lanai. Maui County leads hotel performance. Maui News.

Rare birds on Maui to be relocated in hopes of saving the species. There’s an ambitious plan to save one of Hawaii’s most endangered birds. Conservation groups will trans-locate the Kiwikiu, or Maui Parrotbill, to a restored forest in October. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

State approves Ho‘opi‘i permit. The state Board of Land and Natural Resources voted Friday to continue a permit that allows public access to Kauai’s Ho‘opi‘i Falls. Garden Island.

Threats close 2 schools. Threats of violence forced two schools on the island to close early on Monday, as law enforcement officials investigated reports of text messages about plans to “bomb every single building” on the Waimea High School Campus and “shoot every student and teacher” at Kauai High School. Garden Island.

When the U.S. Department of Agriculture comes out with administrative rules governing the cultivation of hemp, expect Hawaii to submit a state plan, said Micah Munekata, legislative coordinator, state Department of Agriculture. “We’re trying our best to move as fast as we can at the state level,” Munekata said to about 40 people at the Lihue Business Association meeting Thursday at Duke’s Canoe Club at the Kauai Marriott Resort &Beach Club. Garden Island.