Showing posts with label U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Show all posts
Showing posts with label U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. Show all posts

Monday, October 19, 2020

Hawaii COVID-19 vaccination plan kept secret, every island's rules different as tourists return, Tulsi Gabbard relocates to California, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii news all rights reserved
Cruise ship along Kona coast ©2020 All Hawaii News

 No cruise bookings in islands for remainder of 2020; cloudy waters ahead for industry. Although the state welcomed back trans-Pacific travelers without quarantines to island airports on Thursday, provided arriving passengers have tested negative for COVID-19 in the previous 72 hours, the future of the cruise ship industry remains murky. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Is Ready But The State Is Keeping It Under Wraps. Even in the absence of an approved vaccine, Hawaii officials are drafting plans to distribute the first vaccines when they become available. Civil Beat.

State meets deadline to submit COVID-19 vaccination plan to federal government. Health officials confirmed they submitted Hawaii’s COVID vaccination rollout plan which met the Friday deadline. Details on the plan itself however weren’t immediately made available. Hawaii News Now.

Secrecy Shrouds Ige’s New High-Level Coronavirus Panel. A committee set up to help guide Hawaii’s economic recovery holds private meetings with no public agendas or minutes. Civil Beat.

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Some travelers are allowed to enter without tests from approved labs. Some travelers who arrived in Hawaii during the first four days of the reopening of tourism were allowed to skip the 14-day mandatory quarantine even though they did not have COVID-19 tests from the state’s “trusted testing partners.” Star-Advertiser.

Interisland ‘Trusted Partner’ Traveler Test Program Now In Place For Maui, Kauai.
Gov. David Ige announced the new program on Saturday allowing interisland travelers to bypass the 14-day quarantine. Civil Beat.

Maui, Big Island explain how different rules are shared with travelers. For the past three days, Hawaii has seen thousand of travelers fly in after quarantine restrictions relaxed. KHON2.

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The state set aside $100 million in federal CARES Act funds to help struggling families with rent or mortgage payments. And so far, just 2% has been distributed. That’s even though tens of thousands of Hawaii residents are in desperate need of help. Hawaii News Now.

Rental assistance program temporarily halts applications. A state program providing rental assistance to tenants struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic is temporarily no longer accepting applicants after reaching its processing capacity. Tribune-Herald.

Survey shows over 80% of Hawaii businesses expect lower revenue this and next year due to COVID-19. Organizers hope the stark data will paint a clearer, data-driven picture so government officials will allocate more federal funding to help businesses. KITV4.

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Officials tweak mail-in voting process. Election officials mailed ballots early, added drop boxes on most islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii's 2020 Elections: Haven't Gotten Your Ballot? Where To Call. There's a lot about 2020 that makes it a year to leave behind. But at least one important task remains: choosing the next president and filling a host of local offices, all with the power to impact our lives. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Tulsi Gabbard leaves Hawaii Army National Guard after 17 years for California duty. Congresswoman and former presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard has left the Hawaii Army National Guard after 17 years and has a new part-time military assignment: civil affairs officer with a California-based Army Reserve unit. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard’s approval rating lowest at 44% in Hawaii Poll. Oahu voters give Hawaii’s congressional delegation enviable high approval ratings, with the clear exception of U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard — a onetime long-shot candidate to become president who received a dismal 44% approval rating. Star-Advertiser.

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Forecasters predict wetter-than-average rainy season. Most Hawaii locations can expect above average rainfall during the wet season, which officially began Oct. 1 and runs through April. Tribune-Herald.

Hawai‘i’s COVID Total Tops 14,000 Since Pandemic Began. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reported 83 new cases of coronavirus Sunday, bringing the statewide total to 14,031 since the pandemic began. Two new COVID-related fatalities were also reported. Big Island Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Oct. 18: 83 New COVID-19 Cases And 1 Death In Hawaii. Health officials reported one death on Oahu and 83 new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, including 68 cases on Oahu, 14 on Hawaii island and one on Kauai. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Hawaii Poll shows commanding lead for Rick Blangiardi in mayor’s race. Rick Blangiardi holds a solid double-­digit lead over fellow first-time candidate Keith Amemiya in the race for Honolulu mayor, according to the latest Hawaii Poll. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Poll has Steve Alm ahead of Megan Kau in Honolulu prosecutor race. Former Judge, U.S. attorney and Deputy Prosecutor Steve Alm appears to have a solid lead in the race for Honolulu prosecuting attorney two weeks before the general election. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Poll: Oahu voters disapprove of Kirk Caldwell’s coronavirus response. Hawaii Poll participants were solidly critical of Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s overall handling of the novel coronavirus pandemic — although some of the details in the mayor’s COVID-19 plan for controlling the spread of the virus on Oahu earned higher marks. Star-Advertiser.

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Mayor Caldwell calls for special meeting over future of an already costly rail project. The mayor wants to end the so-called P-3 negotiations for a private operator to build the final segment and run the system because the bids came in way over budget. Hawaii News Now.

Chinatown senior affordable-housing plan causes dispute between organization, developer.
A local Chinese cultural organization is squaring off against an affordable-housing developer over a long-planned apartment tower for seniors on city land in Chinatown. Star-Advertiser.

Manoa couple fined $40K for allegedly altering stream. The state Health Department said contractors working for John and Linda Hayama filled in parts of the Manoa Stream near the Kahaloa Drive Bridge with nearly 20 dump trucks full of rocks and sand. Hawaii News Now.

Some visitors in Waikiki say they came prepared to follow Hawai'i's COVID-19 restrictions.
Many got to enjoy the islands right away, after following the state's COVID 19 pre-travel testing program. KITV4.

Ewa Beach man recovering from COVID has a warning to others: ‘This thing is for real’. 42-year-old Eddie Bisquera spent 48 days in the hospital. He said he didn’t have any underlying health conditions, but during his battle with COVID, he went through a few complications and almost gave up. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

County almost halfway through coronavirus relief money. Hawaii County spent almost half of its $80 million federal coronavirus relief money in the first seven months of the program, and with three months to go before the money has to be spent or returned, Mayor Harry Kim is confident returning it won’t be an option. In fact, Kim said Friday, he told Gov. David Ige he may need more. West Hawaii Today.
 

Hawaii’s first N-95 mask factory opens in Kona. The first automated mask factory in the state is expected to start production this week with a staff of 10. Nicholas Garcia will be manufacturing N95 and flat masks, plus “super” versions of both types of mask. West Hawaii Today.

Expansion at NELHA: Big Island Abalone, Blue Ocean Mariculture announce plans for growth. Two of NELHA’s Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology Park success stories, Blue Ocean Mariculture and Big Island Abalone are poised for additional growth and expansion that’ll result in the creation of dozens of jobs over the next several years at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority’s Hawaii Ocean Science Technology Park. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui County Council Race: Strong Political Factions Are Fighting Each Other. The so-called Ohana candidates are in a political battle with the candidates on the Hui O Maui slate, a classic battle of progressives vs. conservatives. Civil Beat.

Different styles, passions for South Maui candidates. Incumbent Kelly Takaya King and political newcomer Tom Cook have the backing of very different groups and are each passionate about their distinct platforms in the race for the South Maui residency seat on the County Council. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai launches post-arrival testing Monday. Under the optional program, Kauai residents who return from out of state travel and receive a negative  pre-travel test through the State's Safe Travels program are eligible for a free COVID-19 test 4-10 days after their return.  KITV4.

Virtual meetings planned to discuss future of island tourism. The Kaua‘i Destination Management Action Plan Community is hosting a virtual meeting for residents living in the south and west portions of Kaua‘i at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, and residents residing in north and east Kaua‘i at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 22. Garden Island.

DOH fines two Kaua‘i companies
. Garden Island Mortuary Ltd., in Lawa‘i, was cited for late submittals of their semiannual reports and annual fee on their crematory units. ShredCo LLC in Lihu‘e was cited for late submittals of their semiannual and annual emission reports on their portable grinding and screening plant. Garden Island.

Monday, September 14, 2020

Lt. Gov. Green describes how he and his security detail contracted coronavirus, new contact tracing head moves fast to quell virus, flaws in response cause COVID-19 to spread, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

from Facebook Live video
An apparently exhausted Lt. Gov. Green in July from Facebook Live
Lt. Gov. Josh Green: "I guess I had to get COVID to make my point". Lt. Gov. Green explains how one doctor's call not to test a person for COVID-19 potentially exposed dozens of people, and underscores need for more testing and contact tracing. KITV4.

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Josh Green says he’s asymptomatic during home quarantine despite testing positive for coronavirus. Green, head of Hawaii’s COVID-19 efforts, announced Friday that he had tested positive and was quarantining at his Honolulu condominium. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green: ‘I Don’t Feel Differently At All’. The state’s vocal COVID-19 medical liaison was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Friday. Civil Beat.

Lt. gov. provides update on his condition, another member of his security detail tests COVID-positive. The lieutenant governor is working from home and says that Sunday’s numbers show that Hawaii is at a turning point. KHON2.

Second member of Lt. Gov. Green’s security detail tests positive for COVID. According to the Department of Public Safety, a second deputy sheriff assigned to Lt. Gov. Josh Green’s security detail has tested positive for COVID-19. Hawaii News Now.

2nd Deputy Sheriff Assigned To Hawaii Lt. Gov. Has COVID-19. Lt. Gov. Josh Green has been in isolation since Friday. Civil Beat.

Second Member of Lt. Gov. Josh Green’s Security Detail Tests Positive for COVID-19. A second deputy sheriff assigned to Lieutenant Governor Josh Green’s security detail has tested positive for COVID-19. The deputy last worked on Sept. 10, 2020. As of Sunday, Sept. 13, the two deputy sheriffs and Lt. Gov. Green are the only confirmed positive cases in the Lieutenant Governor’s Office. Maui Now.

Third Member of Lt. Gov. Green’s Office Positive For Coronavirus. A second deputy sheriff assigned to Lt. Gov. Josh Green’s office has tested positive for COVID-19. Big Island Now.

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Emily Roberson, Hawaii’s new head of contact tracing, moves quickly to revamp the program. Hawaii is at a critical crossroads in reining in the coronavirus that has killed nearly 100 and sickened more than 10,500 statewide, wreaking havoc on the economy and leaving thousands of residents jobless. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard’s New Leadership PAC. Political experts say the Hawaii congresswoman’s new PAC signals she’s not done with politics even after she leaves office at the end of her term. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Public School Enrollment Down 2.6% This Year. The total student count across public schools is now 174,704. Civil Beat.

Thousands inquire about state’s rental relief program, some have been helped. It’s been less than a week since the state launched a program that will help residents with rent. KHON2.

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Hawaii Demand Slumps For Energy Providers. Utilities and alternative energy providers have felt the economic effects of the COVID-19 shutdowns. Hawaii Public Radio.

Pandemic Changes Hawai‘i’s Energy Consumption: Who, When and How Much. The pandemic and resulting recession has transformed the way Hawai‘i uses energy: who consumes it, when and how much, says Scott Glenn, the state’s chief energy officer. Hawaii Business magazine.

Sustainability bill to become law Sept. 15. A state House bill to strengthen statewide sustainability coordination and update the roles and responsibilities of the state Office of Planning will become law Tuesday, Sept. 15, after the measure was not included on Gov. David Ige’s intent-to-veto list. Garden Island.

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Oahu-based contact tracing phone app waiting to launch. Nonprofit develops voluntary self-reporting software that keeps location data secure. An Oahu-based nonprofit with the help of a Maui surgeon has been developing an app to be used as an anonymous, voluntary self-reporting tool for residents and visitors during the pandemic. Maui News.

Hawaii officials report 2 coronavirus-related deaths on Oahu and 114 new infections statewide. Hawaii Department of Health officials today reported two more coronavirus-related deaths on Oahu and 114 new infections statewide, bringing the state’s totals since the beginning of the pandemic to 99 fatalities and 10,700 COVID-19 cases. Star-Advertiser.

114 New COVID-19 Cases (96 O‘ahu, 2 Maui, 16 Hawai‘i Island), 2 Deaths. Maui Now.

The Latest: 2 Deaths, 114 New Cases; One Death At Hilo Medical; Green In Quarantine Says He's Fine. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

Honolulu has allocated about 60% of CARES Act funds, but December deadline looms. It’s use it or lose it when it comes to federal CARES Act funds, but so far Honolulu has only spent about $72 million of its $387 million distribution. Star-Advertiser.

This Is How Honolulu Is Spending $387 Million In CARES Act Money. The clock is ticking. The federal money has a “use it or lose it” provision. Civil Beat.

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Honolulu Council Chair Ikaika Anderson Already On Payroll Of Local Union. Anderson said Wednesday he would resign from the council before his term ends to care for his grandparents. He started work for Local 630 Sept. 1. Civil Beat.

UH Manoa May Cut Theater, Journalism, Social Welfare Programs. Degrees in languages, dance and other subjects are also among those on a preliminary chopping block to balance the budget. Civil Beat.

The struggle of North Shore’s largest employers reaches deep into the tourism-dependent community. Oahu’s North Shore, where most residents and businesses rely on tourism for economic survival, has been among the communities hardest-hit by the tourism collapse. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

COVID-19 survivors see flaws in system: Mayor thinks central command post will improve response. It started with a little tickle at the back of her throat. When she lost her sense of smell, this Hawaii Island woman had no doubt. She had COVID-19. West Hawaii Today.

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Hilo veterans home outbreak prompts more scrutiny. Two more coronavirus deaths related to an outbreak at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home were reported Sunday by Avalon Healthcare, whose infection control practices are under federal review. Star-Advertiser.

2 more deaths reported at a Hilo veterans home as Mayor Kim calls for changes. On Saturday, Mayor Kim held a rare news conference to call for the the suspension and replacement of administrative staff at the home, saying their failed response has led to the worsening outbreak and alarming number of deaths. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Kim Holds Press Conference On Veterans Home Outbreak. Mayor Harry Kim called a news conference in Hilo on Saturday, speaking out on the worsening situation at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home, where an outbreak of COVID-19 has contributed to the deaths of ten veterans. Big Island Video News.

2 more have died of COVID-19 at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home on Sept. 13. The COVID-related death toll rose by two at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home, Avalon Healthcare officials reported on Sunday, Sept. 13. KHON2.

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Charter amendment price tags: Most of the 16 proposed amendments will have minimal financial impact, county says. West Hawaii Today.

Site blessed for homeless village; Kukiola construction to take about eight months. In a very small and low-key ceremony Thursday, Hawaii County blessed the site of the future KukuiOla, a homeless village to be located at the corner of Kealakehe Parkway and Ane Keohokalole Highway in Kailua-Kona. West Hawaii Today

Maui

County of Maui Successfully Prices $74.42 Million in General Obligation Bonds. The proceeds of the General Obligation Bonds will be used for capital improvement projects in the County of Maui and to refinance outstanding bonds issued by the County of Maui at lower interest rates. Maui Now.

South Maui housing projects get green light. Liloa Hale would offer 117 units for seniors, Hale Kaiola 40 units. Maui News.


Kauai

Hearing-impaired students to get special masks. The East Kaua‘i Lions Club Foundation awarded Paleka Zirzow an award of $1,440 Saturday to purchase special face masks for students and those who work with students on Kaua‘i who are deaf or hard of hearing. Garden Island.

A place to bring the fish to. Located at 3083 Peleke Street, Lawai‘a offers not only a variety of fresh catch, but a lot of other things fish, including lures, line, gift items, and stuff growing in the backyard like pumpkins, avocado and more. Garden Island.

Molokai
 
Molokai leaders anticipate an increase in COVID cases this week. Molokai has reported 11 cases of COVID-19 in the last two weeks. KHON2.

Four new virus cases reported on Molokai. Island’s COVID-19 count now up to 13. Health officials are investigating four new cases of COVID-19 on Molokai, with two possibly related to a recent string of travel- and family-related reports earlier this week. Maui News.

Moloka‘i Grab-And-Go Meal Service Modified After COVID-19 Case Involving High School Employee. Grab-and-go Meal Service on MolokaŹ»i is being modified as a precaution after confirmation of a positive COVID-19 case involving a MolokaŹ»i High School employee. Maui Now.

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

Lt. Gov. Green presents 5-point coronavirus plan, Love Has Won cult leaves Hawaii after harassment on Kauai, Kahele defends Big Island gathering, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

from video
Lt. Gov. Green explains ICU beds in a July 29, 2020 briefing (from video)
Here’s the 5-point plan Lt. Gov. Green says Hawaii needs to follow to lower COVID cases. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says Hawaii can defeat COVID-19, and bring numbers significantly lower again. Hawaii News Now.

Commentary: A plan to defeat COVID-19 in Hawaii — and we must deploy it now. Lt. Gov. Josh Green outlines coronavirus control plan. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii commercial real estate sales crashing. Hawaii’s commercial real estate market is on pace to have its worst year in more than a decade, as investors, like tourists, largely stay away. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian homelands made available for renewable energy. The state Department of Hawaiian Home Lands is offering the use of four properties on three islands to developers interested in producing renewable energy. Star-Advertiser.

Survey to explore COVID-19 impacts on rental housing. University of Hawaii researchers are seeking residential landlords and property managers to participate in a survey aimed at understanding COVID-19 impacts on rental housing in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

UHERO Seeking Participation In Hawaii Rental Market Survey. UHERO is seeking data about the number of tenants struggling to pay rent. Civil Beat.

Hawaii social clubs improperly use loans. More than 25,000 Hawaii businesses and nonprofit organizations received forgivable federal Paycheck Protection Program loans earlier this year — but at least a few shouldn’t have. Star-Advertiser.

Term Limits Proposed For Offices In 3 Counties. Voters this fall will be asked about putting a cap on terms for the Honolulu prosecutor, the Maui County Council and mayor, and the Hawaii County Council. Civil Beat.

New agency will take over public school construction in Hawaii. A new state agency to build and renovate public schools is about to be created to take over the job from the Department of Education at a time when most students are learning at home. Star-Advertiser.

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University of Hawaii athletics to trim salaries from the top, AD David Matlin says. Senior administrative staff would be the first to feel any reduction in salaries when the University of Hawaii athletic department looks at trimming its budget, athletic director David Matlin said. Star-Advertiser.

University of Hawaii's athletic department may trim salaries of Senior Administrative Staff. The department is projecting a $9.3 million deficit for the current fiscal year that ends June 30, 2021 due to the COVID-19 impact. KITV4.

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The Money Behind Tulsi Gabbard’s New Legal Defense Fund. The Hawaii congresswoman has long maintained a support base made up of people from all over the ideological spectrum. Civil Beat.

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The Latest: 8th Hilo Veterans Home Death, Schatz Calls For Feds To Intervene; 1 Death, 105 Cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 7: 105 New Cases And 1 Death In Hawaii. So far 86 people in Hawaii with the virus have died since the pandemic began. Civil Beat.

105 New COVID-19 Cases (90 O‘ahu, 4 Maui, 11 Hawai‘i Island), 1 More Death. Maui Now.

Oahu

Decision on Oahu’s stay-at-home order to be announced on Sept. 8. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s office said a formal announcement will be made on Sept. 8 on whether the stay-at-home order will be extended or lifted past Sept. 10. KHON2.

Labor Day low key, but arrests made for stay-at-home charges. Beaches and parks from Waimanalo to Waianae appeared uncharacteristically quiet on Labor Day — a sign that Oahu residents were heeding the call to refrain from traditional holiday gatherings amid triple- digit daily COVID-19 cases and continuing deaths. Star-Advertiser.

A pop-up mojito stand at Waimea Bay draws crowds — and consternation. Some members of the North Shore community say they’re angry at a man who set up what he called a “mojito pop-up” at Waimea Bay on Saturday, accusing him of defying government lockdown orders. Hawaii News Now.

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Hotel quarantine to cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands per month. The city’s use of Oahu hotels to quarantine those who have COVID-19 will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal CARES Act funds each month and is likely to require millions. Star-Advertiser.

State's COVID-19 quarantine hotel program fills need, but concerns Waikiki neighbors. Properties' names have not been released, but sources identify two in Waikiki that has neighbors worried. KITV4.

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Iolani School announces plans to resume on-campus instruction. Iolani School students are set to return to campus for in-person learning on Sept. 21. Hawaii News Now.

‘Iolani School set to resume on-campus learning. During Labor Day, ‘Iolani School announced that all students will be able to return to school for on-campus learning starting Sept. 21. The school based the decision on the decreasing trend of positive COVID-19 cases in recent days. KHON2.

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Police Panel: Neck Restraint Should Be Labeled Deadly Force. A Honolulu Police Department committee is recommending that vascular neck restraint be designated a “deadly force” option in the department’s use-of-force policy. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Marines Are Now Guarding The Nests Of Endangered Species. Green sea turtles are now nesting at a windward Oahu beach where the military trains. Civil Beat.

Civil Beat Named Best Hawaii News Site In Journalism Competition. Civil Beat was among numerous newspaper, television, magazine and student news publications honored in this year’s Hawaii SPJ contest. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island


Department of Health weighs in on large Big Island gatherings: Kahele alleges ‘shaming for grieving’ after questions asked about participation. West Hawaii Today.

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As Hilo Veterans Home COVID-19 Death Toll Rises, Senator Calls For Federal Intervention. U.S. Senator Brian Schatz says it "is increasingly clear to me that the state home is understaffed and ill equipped to stop this outbreak on its own." Big Island Video News.

Another Death at Hilo VA Home Brings Veteran Death Toll to 8. As of Monday, there are 58 residents and 18 employees who have tested positive for the coronavirus. Big Island Now.

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‘It was a big change’: County Clerk provides update on first all-mail election. More than 91% of the 65,000-plus votes cast in the Aug. 8 Hawaii County primary election were sent via postal mail during the state’s first all-mail election. West Hawaii Today.

Roth, Marzo collect campaign money, endorsements. Mayoral candidate Mitch Roth cleared the $200,000 mark in campaign contributions and candidate Ikaika Marzo crept close to $100,000 according to campaign finance reports filed last week, while both candidates continue to solicit endorsements from unions, officials and also-rans. West Hawaii Today.

Most Kona District Court proceedings postponed until Sept. 15. Most Kona District Court proceedings have been postponed to Sept. 15 after courtroom staff were directed to self-quarantine after a coworker tested positive for COVID-19. West Hawaii Today.

Puna geothermal power primed for restart. Hawaii island’s geothermal power plant is slated to start producing electricity again by month’s end after prior delays to rebuild the facility that was partially destroyed by lava in 2018. Star-Advertiser.

Environmental leader accused of trying to foil Honua Ola Bioenergy project. Henry Curtis, a staunch opponent of the stalled Honua Ola Bioenergy project on Hawaii island, is being accused by the company of trying to sabotage its regulatory appeal by sending fake emails to the state Public Utilities Commission. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

Prosecutor’s office staff test negative for COVID-19 on follow-up. All Maui County prosecutor’s office employees tested negative for COVID-19 in a second round of confirmatory testing done Thursday, Prosecuting Attorney Don Guzman said. Maui News.

Maui Tomorrow Wants Input from Ha’ikÅ« and Pā’ia Residents Before Vote on Island Water Plan. The nonprofit Maui Tomorrow organization is urging the Maui County Council to defer a vote on adopting a plan by the Maui Island Water Use and Development Plan to drill wells in the HaŹ»ikÅ« aquifer. Maui Now.

Local food processing business is growing. Hawaii Commercial Foods makes move to Maui Lani Village. Maui-based Hawaii Commercial Foods is doubling its production space and improving its operations in a move to the Maui Lani Village Center, where its new processing and distribution facility will be located. Maui News.

Volunteers set to return to Kahoolawe. After a large brush fire that burned about a quarter of the island and a pandemic that postponed planting efforts, Kahoolawe will be welcoming back its first group of volunteers this month. Maui News.

Workers at Maui's only newspaper call on owner to keep jobs local. Colleen Uechi says contract negotiations have been going since March, with workers on unpaid rolling furloughs and offering various concessions. KITV4.

Kauai

Alleged cult left Kauai, and flew to Maui before leaving the state. Members of an alleged religious cult seen on Kauai are back on their way to the mainland. Hawaii News Now.

Police say Colorado-based group, Love Has Won, has departed Hawaii. A Colorado-based organization described by some officials as a religious cult departed Hawaii late Sunday and returned home, the Maui Police Department announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Cult loses its battle to stay on the Garden Isle. The Kaua'i Police Department reports all fourteen members are back home in Colorado on Monday night. KITV4.

‘Love Has Won’ Cult Intercepted at Kahului Airport, Rerouted to Colorado. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino confirmed today that members of the “Love Has Won” cult were intercepted at Kahului Airport on Sunday afternoon and hours later took a flight to San Francisco and on to Colorado. Maui Now.

Love Has Won escorted to airport. After three days of nearly nonstop protests at their Wainiha rental property, 15 members of Love Has Won received a police escort to Lihu‘e Airport Sunday in two waves. Garden Island.

Protesters Vandalize Kauai Home Rented By Religious Cult, Police Say. The group only recently arrived on island but dozens showed up to demonstrate against it. Civil Beat.

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The spirit of collaboration, with the help of some Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds, is rejuvenating some east side businesses through efforts of three different groups. Garden Island.

Can A Virtual Art Night Help This Struggling Kauai Town Survive? Some business owners are asking why a $115,000 federal grant is being spent on an online event when they are struggling to keep their doors open. Civil Beat.

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Calls for ouster of state health director as coronavirus cases surge, governor may postpone trans-Pacific travel reopening, Hawaii added to New England's quarantine list, contact tracers in short supply, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Facebook Live
Hawaii Health Director Bruce Anderson, Aug. 6 Facebook Live
Hawaii’s rise in COVID-19 infections has landed it on New York’s travel quarantine list. The state of New York, along with Connecticut and New Jersey, on Tuesday placed Hawaii on its tri-state list of states and territories from which travelers are required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 Data Shows Hawaii Is In A ‘Very Dire Situation’. Despite a troubling rise in the number of cases, the public does not seem to have an appropriate sense of urgency, an epidemic tracking expert says. Civil Beat.

Gov. Ige: surge in COVID cases likely means another delay in reopening tourism. The surge in daily COVID cases and hospitalizations makes it more likely that reopening tourism will not happen on September 1. KHON2.

State House Speaker wants more public information from DOH on COVID-19 cases. With the Hawaii Department of Health under fire for its contact tracing capacity, one of the state’s top lawmakers is asking for more information to help the public. KHON2.

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Hawaii sees 2 new COVID-19 deaths and 118 new coronavirus cases as statewide tally climbs to 3,756. Hawaii Department of Health officials late this afternoon reported the deaths of two elderly Oahu men, who will be counted as coronavirus-related fatalities in Wednesday’s COVID-19 tally. Star-Advertiser.

State reports 2 new COVID-19 fatalities, pushing death toll to 36. The deaths come on the heels of three fatalities reported Monday. Hawaii News Now.

State Reports Two New Coronavirus-Related Deaths Tuesday. The coronavirus-related death toll in the state now stands at 36 individuals. A total of 118 new cases of the virus were reported Tuesday. Big Island Now.

118 New COVID-19 Cases in Hawai‘i (112 O‘ahu, 4 Maui, 1 Hawai‘i Island). Twelve of the past 14 days have been in the triple-digits for new cases in the state. Maui Now.

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Hawaii’s surge in COVID-19 deaths related to shortfall in contact tracing, Lt. Gov. Josh Green says. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says changes are in the works to improve contact tracing and testing inadequacies at the Department of Health that might have contributed to about half of Hawaii’s recent surge in COVID-19 deaths. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s Contact Tracing Effort Falls Short Of National Standards. The state Department of Health is trying to hire new staff to address a shortage as the virus spreads. Civil Beat.

How Hawaii Botched Contact Tracing And What It Will Take To Fix It. The state Department of Health’s contact tracing has failed to keep up with the burgeoning numbers of COVID-19 cases and key state senators are calling the department’s bluff on officials' claims that they are managing with the workers they have and are hiring. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH calls senators’ visit ‘showmanship,’ but lawmakers say they’re ready to help. Days after getting a firsthand look at how the Health Department has fallen behind in its contact tracing efforts, a legislative committee reached out to the agency to make clear it is willing to offer any resources available. Hawaii News Now.

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U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says state health department leaders ‘need to go’. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard today posted a second twitter message calling for a change in leadership at the Hawaii state Department of Health, which has recently come under fire for its contact tracing capacity. Star-Advertiser.

Tulsi Gabbard Calls On Ige To Fire Top Health Officials For ‘Gross Negligence’. The Hawaii congresswoman says that state Health Director Bruce Anderson and Epidemiologist Sarah Park have put the community in danger by being slow to hire more COVID-19 contact tracers. Civil Beat.

Congressional member demands removal of state health department leadership. U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also looking into what kind of federal oversight and accountability can be created to manage use of federal CARES Act money. KITV4.

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DOE releases plan for neighbor island public schools. With one week left until school starts, the Department of Education announced Tuesday, most neighbor island public schools will follow Oahu and start the school year with four weeks of distance learning. KHON2.

DOE Announces 13 Cases Of COVID-19 In Schools On Oahu, Kauai. Most neighbor island schools will now start with all distance learning as HSTA pressures the administration. Civil Beat.

Neighbor Island Schools Announce Distance Learning to Start School Year. Complex area superintendents on the neighbor islands today announced the distance learning models that schools will be implementing on Aug.17. Maui Now.

HawaiŹ»i, KauaŹ»i, and Maui Go Full Distance Learning To Start Year. Complex area superintendents announced Tuesday that Neighbor Island schools will change course and adopt distance learning models to start 2020-21 school year. Big Island Video News.

DOE: Distance learning will be used during the first four weeks of the quarter. Big Island public schools, along with most other schools on the neighbor islands, will transition entirely to distance learning for the first four weeks of instruction, the state Department of Education announced Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

HSTA Raises Alarm Over COVID-19 Notifications In Schools, DOE Responds. The teachers union says the community is not being properly notified about confirmed cases of COVID-19 in some public schools, but the DOE says timely notification was made. Big Island Video News.

Seven COVID-19 cases reported so far at Hawaii public schools since teachers returned. Seven school employees have tested positive for COVID-19 since teachers returned to work at public schools July 29, the Department of Education announced Tuesday after being criticized by the teachers union for failing to publicize cases. Star-Advertiser.

Instructors For Hire: How The Pandemic Is Fueling A New Side Business. The pandemic is allowing private instructors to offer small group lessons to parents who are wary of children returning to school campuses — and who can afford it. Civil Beat.

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Election Recounts Don’t Change Outcomes Of 3 Races. DeCoite, Quilingking remain the winners of their primaries, and the Kauai County Council lineup stays the same. Civil Beat.

Flock of warbirds arrives in Hawaii for 75th anniversary of end of WWII. It’s been World War II warbirds meet present-day Pearl Harbor with efforts ongoing to offload 14 vintage aircraft from the amphibious assault ship USS Essex for the 75th commemoration of end-of-war events Aug. 29 to Sept. 2 on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Epidemic tracker: ‘1 in 50 Oahu residents may have COVID’. It has been 13 consecutive days of triple digit coronavirus cases in Hawaii. New data shows every infected person in the state is now spreading the virus to 1.6 people. It is the highest rate of contagion in the country. Hawaii News Now.

Nearly 500 workers tested for COVID-19 at Honolulu Hale. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said his COVID-19 test results were negative after mass testing took place for nearly 500 city and county employees at Honolulu Hale. KHON2.

Plans for a ‘college bubble’ at a Waikiki hotel are scrapped over community concerns. Although U Experience got national attention, the idea of inviting college students to Hawaii during a pandemic raised many concerns locally. Hawaii News Now.

Mass Testing Begins As More OCCC Inmates Positive For COVID-19. Data shows nine inmates and seven staff at the state’s largest jail have tested positive so far in the coronavirus outbreak. Civil Beat.

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Mufi Hannemann and Colleen Hanabusa may have run last campaigns. Neither former Mayor Mufi Hannemann nor former U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa will rule out seeking future office, but both of their political careers could be over — especially with a record number of voters who overlooked them in last week’s mayoral primary election. Star-Advertiser.

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Federal judge orders Michael Miske held without bail. A federal judge has ordered to detain Oahu businessman Michael Miske Jr. without bail pending trial on multiple charges involving a years-long organized crime ring investigation. Star-Advertiser.

Accused Crime Boss Michael Miske Will Remain Behind Bars. A federal prosecutor described Miske as one of the most dangerous defendants he has ever prosecuted. Civil Beat.

Bond denied for alleged crime boss Mike Miske as defense team grows. Accused crime boss Michael Miske will remain behind bars without bond. Hawaii News Now.

Federal judge orders Miske be held without bail on Tuesday. A federal judge ordered local businessman Michael Miske held without bail on Tuesday siding with Prosecutors  believing he's a danger to the community and a flight-risk. KITV4.

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Controversial Kahuku wind project being connected to electric grid. Hawaiian Electric crews have started utility work to connect the wind turbines from the controversial Na Pua Makani project in Kahuku to the electric grid. Star-Advertiser.

'Too big, too close': Kahuku residents picket to stop wind turbine project. Turbines at Na Pua Makani wind-farm in Kahuku were officially connected to Hawaiian Electric's grid on Tuesday. KITV4.

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City’s park closure is cutting off gardeners from their plants on public plots. While the city understands the benefits of community gardeners, there are no exceptions to the order, leaving residents with concerns. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu’s community gardens remain closed due to COVID-19 lockdown, but may get some maintenance help. Those with plots in community gardens won’t get a reprieve from Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s decision to close the sites along with other recreational facilities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island


CARES money hitting the streets: County awards $43 million of its $80 million coronavirus relief grant. With less than five months left to use it all or lose it, Hawaii County has been just chipping away at spending $80 million in federal coronavirus relief funds, but the pace is expected to quicken over the coming months as grants are distributed among community organizations and individuals. West Hawaii Today.

HSTA reports COVID-19 case at Hilo Intermediate. The Hawaii State Teachers Association said during a news conference Tuesday that cases of COVID-19 had been reported at five schools in Hawaii since Thursday, including Hilo Intermediate School. Tribune-Herald.

Mayor Kim Reflects On Primary Election Defeat. Mayor Kim reacts to the Saturday primary election result in which he finished third in the race for mayor, and how he will leave the office in December 2020. Big Island Video News.

Big Island Mayor Harry Kim Thought He Was In Tune With Voters. HawaiŹ»i County Mayor Harry Kim was voted into retirement by Big Island voters in Saturday's 2020 primary election. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui

Threshold to Revisit Closures: If Maui Averages 5-7 New Cases a Day by Monday. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino said he will consider the reinstitution of restrictions and closures in Maui County if the daily average number of cases increases to 5-7 by Monday. Maui Now.

Mayor mulling closure if cases spike. Anticipating a jump in new COVID-19 cases in Maui County, Mayor Michael Victorino said Monday that he will be mulling another potential closure. Maui News.

Kihei bars close after possible exposure to COVID-19 patron. Voluntary move aids cleaning, gathering of further information. Maui News.

Recount of District 13 House Race Confirms Decoite’s Win Over Ritte. A recount of votes cast in the Primary Election race for the District 13 House seat, confirms incumbent Rep. Lynn DeCoite has defeated challenger and long-time Hawaiian Rights advocate Walter Ritte. Maui Now.

Kauai


2 new active cases linked to inter-island travel. Yesterday, Kaua‘i District Health officials announced two new positive cases of COVID-19, both related to inter-island travel. This brings the active case count to four, and the cumulative total to 51. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i public schools opt for distance learning model. Kaua‘i Complex Area will be implementing a 100% distance learning model for at least the first four weeks of school beginning next week. Garden Island.

Status of Coco Palms reviewed. While the Planning Commission received over 115 pieces of written and oral testimony overwhelmingly calling for the reconsideration of plans to redevelop the area of the Coco Palms Resort, there wasn’t much they could do. Garden Island.

Friday, July 10, 2020

Hawaii rethinking reopening to tourists, Health Department to shut down noncomplying restaurants, shipper Young Brothers seeks 47% rate increase, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

copyright 2020 All Hawaii News all rights reserved
Hawaii dawn ©2020 All Hawaii News
County Mayors To Ige: We’re Not Ready To Welcome Back Tourists. With new surges of COVID-19 cases in key states and a sudden disruption in Hawaii’s testing capacity, Hawaii’s county mayors want the state to rethink its planned Aug. 1 tourism reopening date. Civil Beat.

As COVID-19 infections surge on mainland, mayor casts doubt on plan to reopen tourism. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell cast doubt Thursday on the feasibility of the state’s plan to reopen tourism Aug. 1, saying he no longer thinks allowing visitors to avoid quarantine starting next month if they test negative for COVID-19 is safe for everyone. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the decision to reopen Hawaii tourism may be pushed back. Caldwell said it’s an agonizingly painful balancing act of public health and safety and economic viability and survival, and he is unsure of the best course. Star-Advertiser.

Kim says he cannot support Ige’s plan for trans-Pacific visitors. Mayor Harry Kim said Thursday that he will not support a plan by Gov. David Ige to loosen out-of-state travel restrictions on Aug. 1 without significant improvements. Tribune-Herald.

Reservations about reopening. Gov. David Ige and Hawai‘i’s four county mayors met Thursday for the third time this week to try to address the increasingly urgent question of whether the state can safely reopen to tourists on Aug. 1. Garden Island.

State and County Leaders Evaluate Timing of Hawai‘i’s August 1 Pre-Test Program Rollout. Two weeks ago, the state announced plans to start a pre-travel COVID-19 testing program on Aug. 1, 2020.  Maui Now.

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard says state should delay lifting mandatory quarantine. Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard made it clear on Thursday that she wants the state to delay lifting the 14-day quarantine for travelers. KITV4.

Shortage of COVID-19 tests nationally throws cold water on Hawaii’s tourism reopening plan. The program is still set to begin Aug. 1, and would allow incoming travelers to avoid the state’s mandatory 14-day quarantine if they test negative for coronavirus no more than 72 hours before they land. Hawaii News Now.

COVID-19 test supply could affect reopening of trans-Pacific travel. Hawaii’s influx in COVID-19 cases has state and county lawmakers reconsidering plans to move forward with a pre-travel testing program set for August. KHON2.

Mainland supplier of coronavirus testing equipment says it reduced, but not cut off, supplies to Hawaii lab. The mainland supplier of one of Hawaii’s largest COVID-19 testing laboratories said today that it has not cut off the supplies of chemicals needed to continue to run tests locally, but has temporarily reduced the volume of test kits due to a surge in coronavirus cases across the country. Star-Advertiser.

"We need more testing immediately" Hawaii doctor cautions against testing complacency. The Hawaii Department of Health reports the state's capacity is 2,400 tests per day. KITV4.

How postponing lifting travel restrictions could affect workers in the tourism industry. The governor and the mayors met for the second day to discuss plans to lift the quarantine on August 1. KHON2.

Frustrated Hawaii businesses feel a further delay could result in “economic catastrophe”. Hawaii residents and businesses are worried they won’t survive a delay in the planned reopening of tourism on Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii Health Department to shut down restaurants and bars flouting coronavirus precautions. The Department of Health Food Safety Branch will issue red placards temporarily suspending the operations of restaurants, bars and other eateries that do not comply with rules that include physical distancing and the wearing of masks. Under state law, health inspectors can temporarily close food establishments that pose a danger to public health. Star-Advertiser.

Health Dept Cracks Down On COVID Safety In Restaurants. The Health Department is handing out color-coded placards to help the public identify which restaurants are in compliance with guidelines. Civil Beat.

DOH, county work to enforce virus mitigation rules. The state Department of Health will take a tougher stance against restaurants not following COVID-19 mitigation policies as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise throughout the state. Tribune-Herald.

DOH Will Temporarily Close Restaurants, Bars Not Complying With Social Distancing. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) is taking new steps to ensure rood establishments implement appropriate social distancing guidance. Big Island Now.

DOH to issue color-coded placards. Restaurants could be shut down by the state if they don’t enforce social distancing or other pandemic guidelines, and the Hawaii Health Department issued a press release Thursday reminding food establishments of the “serious consequences” should they fail to follow the emergency rules. Garden Island.

Health Dept. to Issue Red Placards to Restaurants and Bars that Violate COVID-19 Mandates. The Hawai‘i Department of Health today announced it will begin issuing red placards to restaurants and bars that violate physical distancing and other mandates to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Maui Now.

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Gun control bills hang in the balance as lawmakers wrap up the legislative session. Some key bills hang in the balance today as lawmakers try to wrap up this year’s unprecedented three-part legislative session where much of the work was done inside a locked state Capitol that was closed to the public because of the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Senate Bills Relating to Firearm Registration and Ag Buildings Pass Final Reading. The Hawai‘i State Senate passed final reading SB3054 SD2 HD1 and SB2701 HD2 relating to firearm registration and agricultural buildings, respectively. Maui Now.

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Lawmakers debate testing for nursing homes. State lawmakers held an informational briefing Thursday to discuss how COVID-19 outbreaks such as the ones that occurred at the state’s largest nursing home last month and at smaller care homes can be prevented. Star-Advertiser.

Plans For Increasing COVID-19 Testing At Care Homes On Hold. A shortage of testing supplies at private labs is forcing the state department of health to shift gears and be more strategic in its testing plan, health officials said. Civil Beat.

Legislative members, healthcare workers on preventing the spread of COVID in nursing homes. House committee members met Thursday, July 9, with health officials and health care workers to discuss how to prevent COVID-19 from spreading in nursing homes. KHON2.

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Bill would make Rep. Takayama eligible to run for Sen. Harimoto’s seat. Twelve days after the death of state Sen. Breene Harimoto, the House Judiciary Committee proposed a change in state election law that would make committee member Rep. Gregg Taka­yama eligible to run to serve out the last two years of Harimoto’s term. Star-Advertiser.

Gov. Ige appoints Bennette Misalucha to the late Breene Harimoto’s Hawaii Senate seat. Gov. David Ige has appointed Bennette Misalucha to fill the late Sen. Breene Harimoto’s state Senate seat until the general election, according to a statement today from the governor’s office. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Appoints Bennette Misalucha To State Senate. The former lobbyist replaces Breene Harimoto, who died last month. Civil Beat.

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Young Bros. seeks 47% emergency rate increase. Without a financial lifeline from the state, Young Brothers has requested regulators approve an emergency or temporary rate increase of nearly 47% — or $30.4 million — to sustain interisland cargo services through year’s end. West Hawaii Today.

Young Brothers seeks emergency increase in rates. Young Brothers LLC, which has been seeking a $25 million bailout from the state to avoid insolvency, has ratcheted up its plea for aid by filing a motion with the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission for an emergency rate increase that would boost the company’s revenue by about $30 million and keep its interisland cargo transport services afloat. Star-Advertiser.

Young Bros. Requests Rate Increase. Young Brothers, LLC made an emergency request of the Hawai‘i Public Utilities Commission (PUC) Tuesday asking for a temporary rate increase for the remainder of 2020. Big Island Now.

Young Brothers asks for temporary rate increase. The company made an emergency request to the Public Utilities Commission. KHON2.

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Public schools identify which teaching models they’ll use come fall. The state Department of Education has released new details on what the upcoming school year will look like at individual campuses, but some concerns are being raised. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii schools select learning models, but teachers union raises concerns. The Board of Education heard from concerned teachers and parents on Thursday, July 9, about the state’s plans to reopen schools. KHON2.

Hawaii school board members hear thousands “speak with one voice”. More than 2,000 people flooded the Board of Education with written testimony Thursday, most pleading to keep students 6 feet apart and require they wear masks when they return to school next month. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii debates how close kids can get after school reopening. Hawaii public schools Superintendent Christina Kishimoto drew opposition when she said children’s desks could be as close as 3 feet (0.91 meters) if facing forward. KITV4.

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Hawaii records 36 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 1,130. Hawaii health officials added 36 new confirmed coronavirus cases today to the statewide total number of infections, which now stands at 1,130 since the start of the outbreak in February. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Updates: 36 New Cases; Survey: 40% Unable To Pay June Rent; Arrivals Exceed 700. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates For Thursday, July 9th: 36 New Cases. Big Island Video News.

Oahu


Senate bill paving way for new Aloha Stadium dies in Hawaii Legislature. A bill crucial to the progress of the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District suffered an 11th-hour death at the state Legislature, which is sure to delay the project for at least a year and drive up already-escalating costs, lawmakers said today. Star-Advertiser.

‘Monumental error’ could delay Aloha Stadium redevelopment another year. After years of debate and planning, the Aloha Stadium redevelopment might be delayed another year. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii Prison Oversight Commission: ‘Maybe We’ve Been Forgotten’. Commissioners say the state is stalling the hiring process of a director, while pushing forward to pursue a public-private partnership for a new Oahu jail complex. Civil Beat.

Multiple COVID-19 cases connected to Hawaii State Hospital temporarily halt construction at site. Health officials say there are now nine COVID-19 cases related to the Hawaii State Hospital and some of those cases temporarily halted construction at the Kaneohe campus. Hawaii News Now.

Keith Amemiya: Political Outsider Or Establishment Insider?. Despite deep political ties to numerous state and local officials, Keith Amemiya says he has the fresh perspective that Honolulu needs in the mayor’s office. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Prosecutor Candidate RJ Brown: 'Better Days Are Ahead For The Office'. Honolulu's prosecutor's office has been operating under a cloud since a federal probe targeted Prosecutor Keith Kaneshiro as part of a corruption scandal that ensnared former Deputy Prosecutor Katherine Kealoha and her husband, retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii Island


PUC dismisses power purchase agreement between Honua Ola, Hawaiian Electric. The state Public Utilities Commission on Thursday dismissed an amended power purchase agreement between Hawaiian Electric Co. and Honua Ola, formerly known as Hu Honua. Tribune-Herald.

Hu Honua bioenergy project fails to get PUC approval. The state Public Utilities Commission has rejected a request from Hawaii Electric Light Co., the Big Island power company, to waive competitive bidding on the long-stalled and nearly completed $350 million Hu Honua Biomass Project. Star-Advertiser.

Hu Honua Bioenergy Project Fails To Get Needed Approvals. The HawaiŹ»i Public Utilities Commission has dealt another regulatory blow to the planned bioenergy project on the Hāmākua coast. Big Island Video News.

Utilities commission rejects Hu Honua’s deal to provide energy for HECO. The state Public Utilities Commission rejected a proposal by Hu Honua Bioenergy on Thursday to provide electricity to Hawaiian Electric Co. in a move the company says will lead to the loss of more than 200 jobs. Hawaii News Now.

Home, sweet home: Prosecutors move into new digs in Kona. The West Hawaii Civic Center welcomed the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney to its campus this week as the long-awaited building was finally ready for occupancy. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Agreement reached on Pi‘ilani Promenade. LUC OKs plan that returns to original concept, nixes ‘megamall’. Maui News.

Community input is being sought for an upcoming solar project on Maui. Developers are holding a virtual open house Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. on the proposed plan in Kihei. Hawaii News Now.

Input Sought on Creating Safer Maui Roads. The public is invited to attend Vision Zero Maui’s Virtual Town Hall on Thursday, July 23, 2020 at 4 p.m. to learn about Maui roadway safety concerns and priorities in developing an action plan to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries. Maui Now.

Person treated for COVID-19 visits DMVL office. Individual not a risk but Kihei site closed for cleaning. Maui News.

Kauai

Anti-Styrofoam bill amended. A bill first introduced in February that would restrict the use and sale of styrofoam foodservice containers is being amended and pushed off due to economic uncertainty sparked by the coronavirus pandemic. Garden Island.

Council debriefed on climate change. Former Mayor Bernard Carvalho had a 10-year county-wide goal of reducing emissions from county government operations by 30% by 2023. Garden Island.

Trump signs disaster declaration for Kauai storm damage. President Donald Trump today signed a disaster declaration for Kauai in connection with the heavy rain and flooding that occurred on March 27 and 28, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced. Star-Advertiser.

Tuesday, May 26, 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island


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

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

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

Maui

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

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

Kauai

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

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