Hawaii in top 3 lowest COVID-19 infection rate, highest mask use; state looks to limit hotel rooms; Kauai makes masks mandatory; unemployment system meltdown irks legislators, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hilo Farmers Market during COVID-19 ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii’s coronavirus infection rate among the lowest in the U.S. — so far. Despite the discouraging stream of announcements of new coronavirus cases that have been detected in Hawaii, data compiled by Johns Hopkins University shows that as of Monday this state had the third- lowest per capita infection rate of any state. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii ranked in top 3 mask wearing states according to geotagged Twitter data. KITV4.

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Hawaii explores deterring tourists by limiting hotel reservations. Hawaii Emergency Management Agency Incident Commander Kenneth Hara said today that Gov. David Ige’s administration is exploring further stemming the flow of visitors amid the coronavirus pandemic by disrupting their ability to make hotel reservations. Associated Press.

Hara Says Plan to Limit Visitor Lodging Options Under Discussion. The state can’t stop visitors from boarding planes bound for Hawai‘i, but it might be able to restrict lodging options for them once they arrive. Big Island Now.

Antibody testing may play key role in reopening tourism to Hawaii. A new blood test that reveals who’s immune to the coronavirus will likely play a key role in the state’s plan to allow visitors to return to Hawaii. It’s called an antibody test and involves a simple finger-prick. Hawaii News Now.

Local 5 Promotes ‘Safe Hotels, Safe Hawaii’ Program. The union’s goal is to keep hotels open while prioritizing public health. Civil Beat.

Senators wonder why Ige hasn’t asked Trump to ban nonessential travelers. The state’s emergency management director and the governor’s chief of staff told lawmakers Monday that despite the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, there is nothing they can do to stop nonessential travelers from coming into the state. Tribune-Herald.

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Low number of new COVID-19 cases has officials feeling good about response. The number of COVID-19 cases in Hawaii crossed the 500 mark Monday with one of the lowest numbers of new cases in several weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Officials say numbers show we’re flattening the curve. The state’s number of coronavirus cases rose by only five Monday. KHON2.

Hawaii Appears To Be Flattening The COVID-19 Curve — For Now. The data changes every day. But so far, Hawaii’s social-distancing measures appear to be slowing the epidemic, experts say. Civil Beat.

Hawaii sees just 5 new COVID-19 cases as talks about how to lift stay-at-home order begin. Hawaii reported just five new COVID-19 cases Monday in what Honolulu’s mayor called “very good news” — and proof stay-at-home restrictions are working. Hawaii News Now.

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State senators slam officials over COVID-19 response. Frustrated state senators Monday blasted Gov. David Ige’s chief of staff and some state department heads over a myriad of coronavirus-­related responses, including admitted lax tracking of arriving visitors, idled state workers not helping with backlogged unemployment claims and the prospect 631 nonessential state workers could join the army of unemployed private and gig workers in just over two weeks, when rents and mortgages are typically due. Star-Advertiser.

Tech chief briefs senators about progress on fixing beleaguered unemployment filing system. The state’s tech chief briefed the state Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 Monday on what’s being done to alleviate an outmoded and overloaded computer system handling unemployment claims, while the committee unloaded on the governor’s chief of staff about the pace of repurposing idled state employees to help take phone calls for the Unemployment Insurance Division. Tribune-Herald.

18 workers reassigned to help with jobless claims are only staying long enough to get trained. The state Labor Department can use all the help it can get processing the more than 220,000 unemployment claims filed since March 1. That’s why on Monday 18 workers from other state agencies were added to the department’s 83 staff members. Hawaii News Now.

Many of Hawaii’s jobless near the end of their emergency funds as they desperately await unemployment checks. Nearly 17 percent of Hawaii’s workforce has filed a claim – and that’s just the ones who have been successful. Since mass layoffs started, people have encountered delays, denials, and defects in the system. Hawaii News Now.

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Pandemic logistics expert outlines Hawaii’s path to restart economy. As Hawaii continues to flatten the curve of COVID-19, many are wondering what the next steps are to get the economy back open and running. KHON2.

Widespread testing and contact tracing data are needed before the economy can be reopened. That's what a panel of medical experts and economists told House leaders who are trying to develop a state recovery plan. KITV4.

Reopening Hawaii’s Economy Will Likely Be Slow and Painful. Economists and business and political leaders are preparing a roadmap to restart the shuttered economy. Civil Beat.

Date to Reopen Hawai‘i Economy a Distant, Moving Target. Economic leaders met Monday to discuss the reopening of Hawai‘i’s economy, but it appears any decision as to when the state can get back to business as usual remains in the distant future. Economic leaders met Monday to discuss the reopening of Hawai‘i’s economy, but it appears any decision as to when the state can get back to business as usual remains in the distant future. Big Island Now.

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Why Hawaii Can't Be Sure If It's Prepared For A COVID-19 Surge. Hawaii was poised to hit its peak coronavirus medical need as soon as this past weekend, according to one widely cited coronavirus research institute. Yet the local numbers continue to climb and are likely to exceed 500 this week, begging the question: why doesn't the state have a solid idea of when the surge will come and whether it is prepared? Civil Beat.

Early action helps Coast Guard keep virus at bay. As fallout continues from the outbreak of COVID-19 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt — with nearly 600 infected and one crew member dead — the Coast Guard appears to have had a close call, but that’s all, with the virus on the Honolulu-based cutter Midgett. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

1,350 Schofield soldiers start returning today from Thailand under COVID-19 monitoring. About 350 Schofield Barracks soldiers are returning today on two charter flights from abbreviated training in Thailand. Approximately 1,000 more are expected back later in the week. Star-Advertiser.

No more curfew for Oahu, Mayor says. Mayor Kirk Caldwell says for now future curfews are out of the picture.  KHON2.

Caldwell, Ballard put an end to weekend curfews. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell and Police Chief Susan Ballard said Monday the 11 p.m.-to-5 a.m. curfew imposed this past weekend was likely a one-time-only imposition. Star-Advertiser.

Fabric stores to open as essential businesses. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Monday he will allow fabric stores on Oahu to reopen as essential businesses, but on a limited basis. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu fabric stores are now essential businesses. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell made fabric stores an essential business on Monday. KHON2.

New Aloha Stadium project draws interest from companies. Aloha Stadium wasn’t open for business Monday due to COVID-19 restrictions, but interest in the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District project managed to draw about 200 participants from development and building industries to an online conference. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Authorities investigate cluster of coronavirus cases tied to Kona restaurant. A restaurant in Kona is closed for a thorough cleaning after eight people — employees and their family members — tested positive for COVID-19. Hawaii News Now.

Humane society opens pet pantries. The Hawaii Island Humane Society is opening Community Pet Pantries to provide pet food for those families impacted by COVID-19. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Second Maui cluster of virus cases possible, mayor says. Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino said there is another possible cluster of COVID-19 cases aside from the Maui Memorial Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

Over one-third of Maui COVID-19 cases linked to Maui Memorial. Maui County cases rise to 84 over the weekend, including 31 workers and patients. Maui News.

Mayor Victorino COVID-19 Update: Maui Hospital Cluster Grows to 34 Positive. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino provides an afternoon update on Maui’s COVID-19 response in a 4 p.m. press conference. Maui Now.

Drop in energy demand greatest on Maui County. Average demand for electricity declined by 14 percent on Maui during the week of March 22, the biggest drop among three islands as electricity use fell during the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai makes cloth masks required in public for everyone 5 and over. Under a new emergency order, everyone 5 and over will have to wear a cloth face mask on Kauai during most activities in public starting Tuesday. Hawaii News Now.

Masks now mandated. Mayor Derek Kawakami announced more rules for Kaua‘i on Monday that further closed county parks, require mask-wearing for everyone in public, and outline sheltering procedures for Kaua‘i’s homeless population — all effective at 5 a.m. today. Garden Island.

Kaua'i makes wearing masks mandatory for everyone over age five. Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that beginning on Tuesday, April 14 everyone over the age of five would be required to wear a mask outdoors. KITV4.

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Food distribution shifts gears. In the face of growing demand, the Kaua‘i Independent Food Bank is expanding its emergency food pickup to five days a week. Garden Island.

Unemployment frustrations. Applying for unemployment has been a headache for many Kaua‘i residents who are working to file claims after being furloughed or laid off from their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Garden Island.

Lanai

Coast Guard takes COVID-19 supplies to Lanai. A Coast Guard Auxiliary aircrew transported COVID-19 supplies from the Kahului Airport Fire Station to personnel at Lanai Airport for use by airport staff. Maui News.

Visitor quarantine not enforced, $250k in masks and protective gear stolen from Honolulu warehouse, first Maui COVID-19 death, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Royal Hawaiian hotel in Waikiki ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hotels for Heroes kicks off across the state. Hotels for Heroes was established through a partnership with the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Authority, Hawaii Tourism Authority, and the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau that provides hotel rooms for COVID-19 first responders. KITV4.

Quarantine of Hawaii interisland visitors lacks enforcement. A mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for interisland passengers began last week, but so far, the counties haven’t received timely information about which arriving passengers need to be monitored, and no one is making compliance calls. Star-Advertiser.

State tourism agency pays to send visitors home. The Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii (VASH) returned two homeless men to Los Angeles on Monday, the first day of the nonprofit’s COVID-19 flight assistance program. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors to Hawaii increase since Thursday, with Sunday bringing largest gains. The Hawaii Tourism Authority reported today that Sunday’s trans-Pacific passenger count was 583, including 126 visitors and 233 residents. The count also included 151 airline crew members, 38 transit passengers, and 29 intended new residents for Oahu and six for Kona. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii National Guard screening arriving passengers. Clad in protective face masks, gloves and eyewear, Hawaii National Guard soldiers used infrared thermometers to take arriving passengers’ temperatures at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. Star-Advertiser.

National Guard Now Checking Passengers For Fevers At Hawaii Airports. The screenings are expected to be happening at all state airports by the end of the week. Civil Beat.

Hawaii National Guard Now Screening Airport Passengers. National Guard soldiers today began the medical screening of incoming and departing passengers at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Big Island Video News.

National Guard placed at arrival gates and security checkpoints. In total 342 guardsmen are assisting the county and state with a support mission that was put in motion last Friday. KITV4.

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Hawaii’s number of new virus cases falls but worst yet to come. Lab results have shown roughly 2.7% of those tested in Hawaii have COVID-19. That rate has remained steady since late last week with nearly 14,000 tests completed. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Is Flattening Curve, But “Not Out Of The Woods Yet”. Hawaiʻi appears to be “flattening the curve” and preventing a devastating spike in COVID-19 cases by adhering, for the most part, to social distancing recommendations and the statewide, stay-at-home order. At least, so far. Big Island Video News.

Hawai‘i Coronavirus Curve Not Flattened Yet, Officials Say. The coronavirus curve has not flattened in Hawai‘i despite descending numbers of reported cases over the previous two days. Big Island Now.

State officials express cautious optimism, but we’re not out of the woods. The total number of COVID-19 related deaths in the state is now up to five. Our statewide total of cases stands at 387. Of those, 26 have required hospitalization and so far 89 patients have recovered. KHON2.

'Not out of the woods’: Officials urge residents to stay at home as COVID-19 cases near 400. The governor and state health officials on Monday said a slight decline in the daily number of reported COVID-19 cases is reason to be optimistic ― but not to stop following stay-at-home orders aimed at preventing the further spread of the disease. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii COVID-19 Cases Nears 400. A fifth death related to the coronavirus has been confirmed. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Updates: Cases At 387, Maui Death; State Death Estimate Cut; Molokai, Hana Hit With 1st Cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

DOH Confirms 16 New COVID-19 Cases, Fifth Virus-Related Death. Another 16 cases of coronavirus were reported in Hawai‘i overnight, raising the statewide total to 387, and the first death on a neighbor island was confirmed Monday morning. Big Island Now.

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Speakers offer grim economic assessment. Speakers painted a bleak picture Monday of Hawaii’s near-term economic future during a teleconference conducted by the state House Select Committee on COVID-19 Economic and Financial Preparedness. Tribune-Herald.

State eases welfare requirements. State Department of Human Services Director Pankaj Bhanot said Monday that eligibility restrictions will be loosened for general assistance payments — commonly known as welfare — because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Unemployment office launches new call center to speed up processing of claims. The state’s unemployment office launched a phone bank Monday in an effort to speed up help for those who have already filed a claim. Hawaii News Now.

Applications for food stamps, Medicaid soar as layoffs mount in Hawaii. Last week, the state Department of Human Services saw about 550 applications a day for food stamps, formally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and/or cash welfare. That’s roughly double the typical average. Hawaii News Now.

Innovation Can Save Some Restaurants, But Many Face Financial Peril. Restaurants employ 13% of Hawaii workers. Many of those businesses face an existential threat from the coronavirus pandemic, but some are already finding success in the new reality. Hawaii Public Radio.

Shuttered businesses are finding that insurance plans often don’t cover pandemic costs. Business interruption claims are being denied because pandemics and viruses are excluded in most policies. Hawaii News Now.

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State leaders say there’s been a rise in domestic violence cases since stay-at-home order. It's been nearly two weeks since Governor David Ige issued a mandatory "stay-at-home" order for all Hawaii residents in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. However, for some, home is not the safest place. Hawaii News Now.

Checks could go to some Hawaii renters. While many are awaiting government stimulus checks, some residents could get a different kind of check next week. But instead of coming from federal funds, it would come from their own money. KITV4.

Hawaii researchers seek clues to COVID-19 risk in DNA. A University of Hawaii Cancer Center researcher and a local genomics company are trying to decipher why COVID-19 hits some people much harder than others — by examining their DNA. Star-Advertiser.

Matson makes provisions to increase debt load. Hawaii’s largest ocean cargo carrier, Matson Inc., has increased its capacity to borrow money in the face of increasing economic uncertainties tied to the coronavirus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu police issue 353 citations for stay-at-home violations; 3 officers have COVID-19. Honolulu Police Department reported today that three officers have COVID-19 and that the department has issued thousands of warnings and hundreds of citations for emergency law violations. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Police To Increase Stay-At-Home Order Enforcement. Violators could face up to a $5,000 fine and/or one year in prison. Civil Beat.

3 HPD officers test positive for COVID-19. The Honolulu Police Department has confirmed that a third officer has tested positive for the virus. KHON2.

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$250,000 worth of personal protective equipment stolen from Oahu health care company. Some $250,000 worth of N95 masks and surgical gloves was discovered stolen Saturday from an Oahu health care company that has been distributing them to its health care workers and selling them at cost to first responders across the state. Star-Advertiser.

Thieves steal $250K worth of protective gear that was destined for hospitals, first responders. A huge haul of personal protective equipment — valued at $250,000 — was stolen over the weekend from Wilson Care Group. Hawaii News Now.

Thieves Steal $250k Worth Of Protective Gear. Local medical providers have been waiting for the N95 masks, face shields and gloves that were stolen. Civil Beat.

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Postal Service makes changes after Honolulu employee tests positive for COVID-19. The employee at the Honolulu mail processing and distribution center was diagnosed with COVID-19 last week. There are about 500 workers who use the facility to process more than 1.5 million pieces of mail each day, according to USPS officials. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu Traffic Is Gone, For All The Wrong Reasons. A deadly pandemic is no way to solve the state’s traffic woes. But the crisis might encourage more people to work remotely once things improve. Civil Beat.

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Mayor criticized for resuming Sherwood project. Mayor Kirk Caldwell rejected calls to postpone construction out of fear that it will lead to protests, which could increase the spread of the new coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Construction Resumes At Waimanalo Park Despite Pandemic And Protest. Defying orders to stay home, residents showed up on Monday morning to oppose the controversial project. Civil Beat.


Mayor defends decision to move forward with Waimanalo park project that drew protests. The mayor is defending his decision to move forward with a controversial Waimanalo park project that drew protesters Monday, despite the stay-at-home order. Hawaii News Now.

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Oahu real estate market held up in March ahead of expected decline. Hawaii real estate agents are essential workers during the coronavirus pandemic, but the local housing market is in turmoil. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Hilo restaurants reeling. Restaurant owners in Hilo are struggling to stay positive while changing the way they are operating during the COVID-19 outbreak. Tribune-Herald.

Kreuzer back at the helm as acting CEO of Kona, Kohala hospitals. Jay Kreuzer, who retired as Kona CEO of Kona and Kohala hospitals, in 2019 is back at the helm again. West Hawaii Today.

Both lanes of Alii Drive open in Kailua Village after sinkhole repair. Isemoto Contracting Ltd. crews had been working since late January to repair damage caused by years of erosion that undermined the seawall exposed to Oneo Bay, ultimately causing a portion of the makai shoulder to sink and the wall to buckle in late December 2019. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui suffers ‘tragic news’ of its first COVID-19 death. Maui experienced its first COVID-19-related death, an older man with underlying health conditions, officials announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

First Maui County resident dies of COVID-19. A Maui County resident has died of COVID-19, marking the first fatality in the county related to the virus, Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino announced Monday morning. Maui News.

Maui County Suffers Its First COVID-19 Related Death. The Hawai‘i Department of Health has confirmed the first COVID-19 related death in Maui County, Mayor Michael Victorino announced this morning. Maui Now.

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Mayor Victorino says he’s considering roadblocks, restricting shoppers. After three confirmed cases in the rural areas of Molokai and Hana, Mayor Victorino said grocery stores there have temporarily switched to a call-in, pick-up service. He said non-workers will not be allowed in the stores. KHON2.

Hāna Town to Undergo Sanitization Effort, New Shopping Procedures to Follow. The remote community of Hāna in East Maui will move forward with sanitation of businesses and public places on Tuesday and then transition to a new shopping process once stores reopen, according to an update on Sunday evening provided by Senate Majority Leader J. Kalani English. Maui Now.

Restrooms to Open at Kalama, Pukalani and Lower Pā‘ia Parks. Restrooms at Kalama Park, Pukalani Park and Lower Pāʻia Park will open starting Wednesday, April 8, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, and will be cleaned four times per day. Maui Now.

Kauai

Parks and Rec hearing closed to the public. The Department of Parks and Recreation is proposing new rules for use of county sports fields/stadium facilities and playgrounds, and there’s a public hearing about those rules today. Garden Island.

8 active COVID-19 cases on Kaua‘i. Kaua‘i announced its 18th confirmed case of COVID-19, with eight currently active cases on the island. All but one of these cases are travel related. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai is the only one of the main islands with no COVID-19 cases yet. To help keep it that way, residents are not letting their guard down. KITV4.

Hotel occupancy grows, vacation rentals drop in November, Maui man admits buying 9-year-old girl, Mauna Kea summit road opens, Christmas Day storms wreak havoc on Oahu, Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Condos along the Ala Wai ©2019 All Hawaii News

Vacation rentals throughout the state see a dip in occupancy. Supply and demand for vacation rental units throughout the state were up year-over-year in November, but occupancy was down, according to the latest data from Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Hawai‘i hotels statewide reported growth last month compared to November 2018. According to the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Hawai‘i hotel room revenues statewide grew by 7.6% to $330.3 million, which is $23.2 million higher than last year. Big Island Now.

Recent deaths spur review of military base security. The Navy and Marine Corps are conducting a broad review of security measures in the face of insider threats, following three violent incidents at Navy bases since Thanksgiving, including the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard fatal shootings on Dec. 4. Star-Advertiser.

How A Nuclear Waste Site 2,800 Miles Away Became A Hawaii Priority. The Runit Dome in the Marshall Islands is cracked and in danger of spilling its radioactive contents into the Pacific Ocean. Civil Beat.

Oahu

City report claims housing shortage will end in 2028, but experts are skeptical. The report by the Department of Planning and Permitting said that population growth over the next several years will slow down while the inventory of known housing projects will grow significantly. Hawaii News Now.

Restored Wo Fat Building expected to breathe new life into Chinatown. Owners of the iconic Wo Fat Building are hoping that restoration of the 86-year-old landmark will serve as a catalyst for a badly needed makeover for the rest of Chinatown. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Prosecutors Keep Up Quest For Third Trial Against Christopher Deedy. The federal agent’s attorneys have argued another trial for manslaughter would violate the double jeopardy clause of the U.S. Constitution. Associated Press.

Rain and wind wreak havoc across Oahu, knocking out power to thousands and causing a mudslide. Oahu received slate-gray skies, steady rain and wind gusts for Christmas that knocked out power to more than 18,000 people, downed trees, power lines and closed the Pali Highway — again — as the result of a mudslide. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu’s NYE fireworks displays, rules and safety tips from HFD. The Honolulu Fire Department is reminding the public that the City and County of Honolulu’s fireworks ordinance allows the public to purchase and use firecrackers only. All other fireworks are illegal for consumer use on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Increased police presence on Daniel K. Inouye Highway put department $3M over budget. The county is a little less than halfway through fiscal year 2019-2020, but five months of increased police presence on Daniel K. Inouye Highway near Maunakea Access Road has put the Hawaii Police Department over budget, a high-ranking police official told the Hawaii County Police Commission on Friday during the panel’s monthly meeting in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Both sides downplay likelihood of confrontation on Maunakea Access Road. County officials and protesters alike seem skeptical that a confrontation will occur at Maunakea Access Road on Thursday, but both sides remain cautious. Tribune-Herald.

Mauna Kea Summit Road Open Ahead Of Potential Sweep. The Mauna Kea Access Road on Hawaii Island is once again open to the public, but the situation on the mountain remains uncertain. Hawaii Public Radio.

PGV reconstruction efforts on schedule to be finished by end of 2019. Puna Geothermal Venture is expecting to return to operation by the end of this year and hopes to sell electricity in early 2020. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

A Maui man accused of “buying” a 9-year-old Thai girl and then sexually assaulting her when she was 14 will likely serve five years behind bars under a plea deal. In court papers, 76-year-old George Theros admitted that he had sex with the girl earlier this year while he was trying to smuggle her on a boat from Panama to Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai

Storm rattles island. The storm that hit Kauai the night before Christmas knocked out power, closed bridges and roads, led to requests for water conservation and a brown water advisory, and people were urged to stay out of the ocean. Garden Island.

Historic theater and bridge damaged by flooding on Kauai. A flash flood warning for Kauai has expired following a morning of extremely heavy rain. Hawaii News Now.

Senate mulls dairy decline, Coco Palms defaults, state budget advances, two ballots sent to Honolulu voter, hotel occupancy falls, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii grocery out of fresh milk on March 22 ©2019 All Hawaii News

Senate Committee Votes To Examine Hawaii Dairy Decline. The State Senate is looking to counter the “demise of Hawaii’s dairies”. Big Island Video News.

Weak start for Hawaii hotels casts uncertainty for 2019. Statewide occupancy fell nearly 3 percentage points to 83.4 percent from February 2018, while the average daily room rate dipped just over 1 percent to $290 and revenue per available room declined more than 4 percent to $242. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii hotels see drop in occupancy and revenue for February. Fewer people stayed in Hawaii hotels last month compared to February 2018, according to statistics released Monday by Hawaii Tourism Authority. Pacific Business News.

Lawmakers Move Swiftly On Spending Plan, But That’s Not The End Of The Debate. The Legislature is preparing to send a streamlined, two-year $16 billion general budget plan to Gov. David Ige within the next few days. Civil Beat.

Minimum wage bill tweaked. A bill that would increase the state’s minimum hourly wage has been modified to raise wages even more quickly. Tribune-Herald.

State lawmakers propose use of firework detection technology. Hawaii lawmakers are urging county police departments to look into new tracking technologies so officers can better enforce fireworks laws. KHON2.

Oahu

Special East Honolulu election further scrutinized after a voter is mailed 2 ballots. The race for Honolulu City Council between Trevor Ozawa and Tommy Waters is heating up as voters in East Honolulu began receiving ballots in the mail. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu councilwoman seeks $21M to address homelessness. Honolulu Councilwoman Kymberly Pine has proposed that each of the nine Council members receive $2.3 million — or $21 million overall — to use in efforts to reduce homelessness. Star-Advertiser.

Public Comment Period Not Extended Afterall For Ala Moana Beach Park Project. Plans to extend the period for public comment on a proposal to renovate Ala Moana Regional Park hit a roadblock tonight. Hawaii Public Radio.

Portlock homeowners told to trim encroaching beach vegetation. On Monday staff members with the state Office of Conservation and Coastal Lands walked the beach fronting more than a dozen homes and identified properties where the vegetation was growing beyond the high- water mark. Star-Advertiser.

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Humane Society CEO out following protest. After 16 months on the job, Hawaiian Humane Society CEO and President Lisa Fowler has resigned “for personal reasons,” the organization announced Monday. Star-Advertiser.

Embattled Hawaiian Humane Society CEO Resigns. Lisa Fowler was at the center of an employee uprising calling for her ouster. Civil Beat.

Oahu’s SPCA under fire for euthanizing 2 dogs despite ‘no-kill’ policy. A longtime volunteer at the Oahu Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is criticizing the animal shelter after it euthanized two dogs last Friday. Hawaii News Now.

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Local Artisans Are Thriving Amid Kakaako’s Condo Boom. If they make the right connections, artists, woodworkers and other creative types can benefit from the development of all those shiny skyscrapers. Civil Beat.

Koko Crater Stables riding high after city awards concession. Koko Crater Stables is now full of horses--and riders--again. The city awarded a five year concession to Horse Haven to manage the city property. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

The convening of an International Moon Base Alliance Committee and a study of potential industries on the Big Island were two of the resolutions considered during a March 22 hearing before the Senate Committee on Energy, Economic Development, and Tourism. Big Island Video News.

A nonprofit group dedicated to recording whale songs wants to build a marine science center at Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor, and it’s secured support from a number of political, Native Hawaiian and marine backers. West Hawaii Today.

Following in the footsteps of the Hawaii Police Department, investigators at the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney are ditching their old handguns for 9 mm Glocks. West Hawaii Today.

Glenwood Park closed indefinitely after theft of 3,000-gallon water tank. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Mayor Proposes $869.5M Budget For Next Fiscal Year. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino unveiled his first budget proposal yesterday, listing affordable housing, infrastructure and the environment as top priorities for the county in the next fiscal year. Hawaii Public Radio.

Maui Hotels Still Lead State Despite Daily Rate Decline. Maui Now.

Maui Unemployment Rate Sees Slight Drop. The not seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for both the island of Maui and Maui County this past February was 2.8%, according to the Hawaii State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations. Maui Now.

Kauai

Coco Palms Defaults. Efforts to redevelop the former Coco Palms resort have collapsed, with the two Oahu men behind the project facing foreclosure after defaulting on $11.2 million in financing they used to purchase the property five years ago. Garden Island.

Timeshare developer defaults on loan. The corporation that owns 21 acres adjacent to the Courtyard Marriott in Kapaa has defaulted on a loan it took out two years ago to finance the construction of a 330-unit timeshare development called the Coconut Beach Resort, according to loan foreclosure documents filed in Fifth Circuit Court earlier this month. Garden Island.

Anaina Hou looking for funding. This year will be the first full year the nonprofit has stood on its own, said Jill Lowry, who took the post of Anaina Hou executive director about six weeks ago. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai Adventure Center gets special-use permit OK. Project on old Koele resort golf course to include zip lines and challenge courses. Maui News.

Hiker rescue reimbursement bill advancing through Legislature, Ige not worried about federal rail funds, 'lava bomb' tour boat victim sues, Maui development fight, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hiker on Kilauea volcano ©2019 All Hawaii News

A bill that would require public safety agencies to seek reimbursement from hikers who are rescued while trespassing on public trails is making its way through the state Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

More security could be coming to the state Capitol, but how will that affect access? Hawaii News Now.

Legislators are considering a bill to require licensing or accreditation of all private schools in Hawaii because of fears unlicensed operations may be falling short of basic safety and other standards. Star-Advertiser.

Be Audited Or Die: New Budget Process Cracks Down On State Agency. The Hawaii Agribusiness Development Corp. manages about 3,300 acres of land and infrastructure acquired with $71.4 million in taxpayer money. Civil Beat.

Film industry leaders worry tax credit limit will turn away potential filmmakers. KITV.

Tobacco tax clears final Senate committee. After a decision by the state Senate Committee on Ways and Means Thursday, a new tobacco tax is one reading shy of heading to the House of Representatives for consideration. West Hawaii Today.

Statewide hotel occupancy dropped to its lowest January level in four years, as every major Hawaii isle began the year with fewer occupied hotel rooms. Star-Advertiser.

Study: Moving Ourselves Away From The Shoreline Is Hard But Doable. A new report sheds light on some of the critical factors for the state to consider when implementing a managed retreat strategy. Civil Beat.

Amazon spreading its wings in Hawaii. The online retail giant established a package receiving and distribution facility at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport nearly a year ago after deciding to fly its own cargo planes to Honolulu from Riverside, Calif. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ige Doesn’t Think HART’s Federal Funding Is Threatened. For now, Hawaii’s governor expects the funding will go forward despite an investigation into the rail project and the state’s recent lawsuit against the Trump administration. Civil Beat.

Lifeguards will be at Hanauma Bay longer. Starting Sunday, the popular Hanauma Bay extended its lifeguard hours. It's a pilot program that will be evaluated in a year. KHON2.

City making changes to prevent drownings at Hanauma Bay. KITV.

Retailers who pay top dollar to rent space in one of the nation’s premium shopping districts have joined Waikiki residents in pushing for a city ordinance to limit the number of street closure permits issued for Kalakaua Avenue. Star-Advertiser.

Former sex worker speaks out claiming police officers pressured her to perform sexual acts. This woman claims at least five Honolulu police officers pressured her to perform sexual acts. KITV.

Protesters tell Alexander & Baldwin: ‘Don’t be a deadbeat dad’. Dozens protested at Alexander & Baldwin Inc.'s downtown headquarters Friday, saying A&B and other companies like them are not paying their fair share of taxes. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu libraries start lending ukulele as interest grows. As interest in the ukulele soars across the country, the Aloha State is starting to make the perky little instrument available free to use through its public libraries. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

The first sewer fee hike in 17 years squeaked through the County Council on a 5-4 vote this week, but only after it was amended to spread the cost over five years instead of the three requested by the administration. West Hawaii Today.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency could end up spending $177 million on the Kilauea eruption. Tribune-Herald.

The family of an Illinois woman seriously injured last July when a “lava bomb” tore through the roof of a tour boat off Kapoho is suing the tour company and its owner in state court. Tribune-Herald.

A Hilo fire rescue specialist who was transferred to a Kailua-Kona fire station is claiming Fire Chief Darren Rosario retaliated against him after he filed an internal complaint of harassment and workplace violence about two coworkers. West Hawaii Today.

For the first time since Big Island legislators began seeking lifeguards for Kua Bay in 2013, a measure to secure life-saving personnel for the site was heard and passed by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. West Hawaii Today.

A resolution urging the county administration to increase funding to add more police officers in Puna is expected to appear on the Hawaii County Council’s Public Safety Committee agenda on March 12 in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Business owners in the town of Volcano are worried a new law regulating short-term vacation rentals on the Big Island will impact their village. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park hopes to reopen one of its prime attractions, the Thurston Lava Tube, this year after improving traffic congestion issues in the park. Tribune-Herald.

The Kamuela Vacuum Cooling Plant is in line for a face-lift. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

A Maui resident has sued the state, Maui County and a developer to stop construction of a housing subdivision after learning that at least 182 Native Hawaiian burials have been disturbed by the project. Star-Advertiser.

The Maui County Council on Friday approved eight nominees to respective department directorships, and rejected three appointees. Maui Now.

$257,000 Launiupoko Parking Lot Repaving Project Begins Monday. Maui Now.

Maui’s 12 sites logged nearly 100 whales in a 15-minute time period and 774 whales total during The Great Whale Count by Pacific Whale Foundation on Saturday, the second of three monthly counts, according to the foundation. Maui News.

Kauai

In five years Kauai has seen the number of beach goers more than double, yet the number of rescues and drownings over that same period has decreased, according to the Kauai Lifeguard Association. Garden Island.

Species are springing to life on Kauai’s South Shore that haven’t been seen in more than 200 years, and it’s wetland rehabilitation that’s making it happen. Garden Island.

Senate president's son now a lobbyist, vacation rentals eat into hotel profits, BLT Steak restaurant in Trump Tower cited by Health Department, dead baby humpback washes up off Kauai, national parks reopen, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trump International Hotel Waikiki ©2019 All Hawaii News

Hotel units drop as vacation rental units fuel growth. Hawaii’s visitor accommodation units grew just a smidge in 2018 with growth in vacation rentals and timeshares offsetting a dip in the state’s larger supply of traditional lodging. Star-Advertiser.

The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii has hired the son of Senate President Ron Kouchi as its new assistant vice president for government affairs and alliances, which some at the state Capitol fear could mean trouble this year for proposals to increase Hawaii’s minimum wage. Star-Advertiser.

House Speaker Scott Saiki says he works well with Hawaii Supreme Court Chief Justice Mark Recktenwald despite tension over court decisions that sparked a turf fight between the two branches. Civil Beat.

"Tax Season" started Monday. It's the first big test of the state's new "E-Filing" system. The upgrade to the tax department's website is intended to make it quicker to file, and should make it easier for the state to track people who don't pay their taxes. KITV.

A bill that would allow restaurant owners to decide whether dogs are allowed on their premises has been introduced at the Hawaii State Legislature. Star-Advertiser.

A House bill introduced this session aims to arm student journalists in Hawaii’s public high schools with greater First Amendment protections. Civil Beat.

Representative Roy M. Takumi, Chair of the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee, introduced a package of bills in an effort to protect consumers. KHON2.

Lawmaker proposing no down payment on a home for returning kamaaina. KHON2.

The effort to control non-native species in Hawaii was dealt a significant setback by the 35-day partial shutdown of the federal government. Hawaii Public Radio.

Oahu

East Honolulu voters might learn today or Wednesday when and how they’ll cast a vote for their City Council member, City Clerk Glen Takahashi said Monday. Star-Advertiser.

The upcoming Special Election for the Honolulu City Council District 4 seat has not been scheduled. But the candidates aren’t waiting to go back on the campaign trail. Hawaii Public Radio.

The Honolulu City Council is now required to temporarily fill the City Council District 4 seat left vacant after the Hawaii Supreme Court invalidated Trevor Ozawa's win over Tommy Waters. KITV.

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The state Office of Planning's Coastal Zone Management Program is developing comprehensive high-resolution Tsunami Design Zone maps for the Island of Oahu. KHON2.

Officials with the city climate office toured the island over the past few months to spread public awareness of the issue and gather feedback on ways to reduce emissions. Civil Beat.

Over the past decade, crime against the elderly on Oahu has shot up 300 percent. Hawaii News Now.

A Hawaii Kai man sued the state Department of Land and Natural Resources Monday along with several other DLNR law enforcement officers over an aggressive boat seizure in 2017. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Disability Treatment Center For Kids Will Close. Civil Beat.

State health inspectors have issued a yellow placard to an upscale steak house at Trump International Hotel in Waikiki after finding a number of serious violations. Hawaii News Now.

A $70 million 120-bed home veterans home planned for about seven acres of a 26-acre state-owned parcel across from the Walmart store in Kapolei must choose a general contractor by March to meet Veterans Administration deadlines or risk losing nearly two-thirds of the project’s federal funding. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park returned to normal operations Monday after more than a month of partial closures during the shutdown of the federal government. Tribune-Herald.

The possibility of creating a future Hawaiian cultural and/or educational center somewhere on the higher elevations of Mauna Kea was discussed during a recent informational briefing at the Capitol. Big Island Video News.

State Senators are hoping to pass a bill this legislative session that will establish a Hawaii Airports Corporation, as lawmakers question some of the issues at Hilo International Airport. Big Island Video News.

As little fire ants continue to swarm West Hawaii, the state inches closer to fortifying permanent reinforcements to combat the invasive species on the Big Island’s leeward side. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Park services at Haleakala getting back to normal after shutdown. Visitors center back in business; Pools of Oheo also open. Maui News.

Hilton Grand Vacations has started construction at the Maui Bay Villas, with work on the first phase slated for completion in the first quarter of 2021. Maui Now.

Kauai

A whale was reported dead on the beach in Kekaha Monday morning. Garden Island.

Five whale sightings reported at Princeville. Garden Island.

Rep. Tulsi Gabbard tests presidential waters, state sued over autistic student services, Honolulu Styrofoam food container ban proposed, Lingle to address Maui crowd, coquis come to Kauai, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard ©2018 All Hawaii News

Is This The Beginning Of Tulsi Gabbard’s Bid For President? The congresswoman will travel from a high-profile event for Bernie Sanders progressives in Vermont to New Hampshire, where she’ll participate in a pre-presidential meet and greet. Civil Beat.

Colleen Hanabusa Is Now The Legislature’s Attorney In Case Against The State. Two nonprofits filed a lawsuit in September to improve government transparency in the lawmaking process. Civil Beat.

State sued over services for autistic students. Lawyers for the Hawaii Disability Rights Center filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court Wednesday against the state Department of Education and Department of Human Services. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Climate Commission Pushes For State Carbon Tax. The group of state and county officials said it’s the most effective method to reduce emissions from cars, trucks and buses. Civil Beat.

Is Ocean Warming Causing A Decline In Hawaii Whale Sightings? Researchers and wildlife officials meet in Honolulu to discuss the “unprecedented” decrease in sightings throughout the islands. Associated Press.

The 2018 Central Pacific hurricane season will end Friday much like it started — with a couple of months of smooth sailing and no tropical cyclones on the horizon. It was the middle part that got rather dicey. Star-Advertiser.

Strike-ending deal means 5 hotels down, about 15 more to go. As striking hotel employees begin returning to work today at five Marriott-managed hotels, the focus shifts to about 15 other major Hawaii hotels where union members soon will be pushing for better wages and benefits. Star-Advertiser.

The largest container ship ever built in the U.S. sailed into Honolulu Harbor on Wednesday. Matson says the “Daniel K. Inouye,” named for the late U.S. senator, is the most efficient and fastest ship in its fleet. Hawaii News Now.

Largest container ship built in US arrives in Hawaii. Named in honor of Hawaii's late senior U.S. senator, the Daniel K. Inouye is the first of four new ships being built for Matson that will be introduced in Hawaii over the next two years. KHON2.

‘Inouye’ arrives in Honolulu as newest, biggest, fastest Matson ship. The largest containership ever built in the United States cruised into Honolulu Harbor Wednesday after three years of construction and an initial voyage from Philadelphia to California via the Panama Canal earlier this month. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

New proposal introduced to ban styrofoam containers. The proposed bill would ban restaurants from using polystyrene foam or styrofoam containers. KHON2.

Measure to speed building permit approval becomes law. A bill aimed at speeding up the processing of building permits will become law despite Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s lingering concerns about it. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell Unveils Plan to Issue Residential Permits in 60 Days. The Honolulu City Council passed Bill 64 two weeks ago to speed up the permitting process for residential homes. Today, the Mayor announced his own plan. Hawaii Public Radio.

Caldwell allows Honolulu building permit bill to become law, unveils new plans to speed permit process. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday said he will allow a bill requiring building permits for one- and two-family homes to be issued within 60 days to become law without his signature, and announced seven initiatives to speed the building permit process, including one requiring all third-party-reviewed permits to be issued without re-checking and another that will close one-stop building permit centers to new applications one day a week. Pacific Business News.

City rolls out new initiatives aimed at speeding up permitting process. After a flurry of complaints, the city has kicked off some new initiatives to speed up the permitting process. Hawaii News Now.

New law reduces wait time for certain building permits. But there are specific requirements when it comes down to fast-tracking the application process. KITV.

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Abigail Kawananakoa asks court to amend trust, give $40M to wife. Court records show Abigail Kawananakoa has changed her trust to ensure that her wife receives $40 million and all her personal property, including her Chihuahua “Girlie Girl.” Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Princess Amends Trust To Ensure Wife Gets $40 Million. The action by Abigail Kawananakoa’s legal team comes during a court battle over her capacity to make decisions about her fortune. Associated Press.

Amid questions about her health, Heiress Kawananakoa seeks to amend trust to give wife $40M. The battle over Heiress Abigail Kawananakoa’s $215 million fortune is intensifying. Hawaii News Now.

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Privately Funded, ‘Destination’ Playground Proposed For Ala Moana Park. A nonprofit would oversee building the free, fenced-in site featuring zip lines, fountains, a snack concession and a police office. Civil Beat.

Ride Sharee works with City Council to draft rules for dockless bike parking. When you rent a bicycle from Ride Sharee, there isn't a bike rack to return it to. That's because the bikeshare is dockless. KITV.

HFD responding to possible chemical leak at Island Energy Service. Honolulu firefighters are responding to reports of a fire and chemical leak at a refinery on Oahu’s Leeward side. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Commission gives positive recommendation to sewer fee hike bill. The Environmental Management Commission on Wednesday sent the Hawaii County Council a positive recommendation on a measure that would nearly double sewer fees over the next three years. West Hawaii Today.

Commission rules against Waikoloa Highlands developer. The state Land Use Commission Wednesday voted to revert more than 700 acres in South Kohala from rural district to an agricultural land classification after determining that the developer of a planned 398-lot residential subdivision did not substantially get the project off the ground. West Hawaii Today.

SBA Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Hilo. Assistance for Hawaii businesses and residents affected by Hurricane Lane is now available, U.S. Small Business Administration officials say. Big Island Video News.

Waipio Valley residents concerned for safety after permits revoked. Morgan Toledo's family has lived in the heart of Waipio for generations. KITV.

Maui

Former Governor Linda Lingle to Speak at Nisei Veterans Memorial Center. Former Governor Linda Lingle will speak at the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center’s Leadership Series Luncheon on Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. at the Kahili Golf Course Nahele Ballroom. Maui Now.

Planning commission defers action on Paia Inn. Panel reviews permit denial for 9-bedroom vacation rental. Maui News.

A proposed education and outreach center dedicated to Kahoolawe’s history got approval from the Maui Planning Commission on Tuesday. Maui News.

The Maui Energy Conference returns to the Maui Arts Cultural Center March 27-28, 2019 with a new name. Maui Economic Development Board announced today that the conference would be renamed the Hawaii Energy Conference. Maui Now.

Kauai

Coqui have arrived. Since September, six coqui frogs have been captured in Kapahi, rousing the attention of invasive species groups dedicated to keeping them off of Kauai. Garden Island.

Lunch is served, finally. Malama Kauai’s Farm-to-School program just opened its commercial kitchen trailer at the school and Chef Barbara Kaauwai is serving lunch for the school every day. Garden Island.

Workers end hotel strike, lawsuit filed over false missile alert heart attack, military about-face on Mauna Kea war games, no prosecution for Kauai Hawaiian activist, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Striking hotel workers in Waikiki ©2018 All Hawaii News.

Hotel workers ratify contract to end 51-day strike. Hotel owner Kyo-ya offered striking hotel workers up to $6.13 per hour in pay and benefit increases over four years in a new contract today that ended a 51-day-old strike. Star-Advertiser.

Tears of joy and celebratory singing after a grueling 51-day strike ends with a new contract for hotel workers. Hawaii News Now.

Kyo-ya hotel workers ratify new contract in near-unanimous vote. KHON2.

Local 5 union hotel workers vote to ratify new contract. KITV.

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Analysts rank Hawaii among worst in nation for unfunded liabilities. A recent report by analysts at J.P. Morgan has ranked Hawaii among a handful of the most financially stressed states, mostly because of unfunded pension and health care obligations to public workers. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Aims To Quicken The Pace Of School Repairs. The Department of Education wants to demystify how it is handling a hefty repair and maintenance backlog. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Department of Education reveals new digital solutions to improve facilities. It may soon take months, not years to make repairs and upgrades to Hawaii Schools. KITV.

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Man who suffered heart attack during Hawaii’s false missile alert sues state. James Sean Shields and his girlfriend, Brenda Rei­chel, filed a lawsuit in first Circuit Court against the state and Vern Miyagi, former administrator of the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, or HI-EMA, for the false alarm they claim triggered the heart attack. Star-Advertiser.

Man Who Had Heart Attack After Hawaii Missile Alert Sues. Assuming the threat was real, he said he called loved ones before suffering cardiac arrest. Associated Press.

A Hawaii Kai man who suffered a heart attack during January’s false missile scare has sued the state, saying if emergency management workers hadn’t waited so long to send out an “all clear” message he might have been OK. Hawaii News Now.

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A class-action lawsuit has been filed against the maker of potato chips sold under the brand name Hawaiian, claiming the chips made in Washington state are misleading customers. Associated Press.

Matson sells a ship to lighten debt load. Matson Inc. has sold one of its containerships but will lease it back from the new owner as a way to cut debt as it borrows more money to pay for new ships, including one scheduled to arrive for the first time in Hawaii on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will give about $3.6 million in funding next year to 130 Hawaii programs that are connected to Hawaiian culture, natural resources, and community events. Pacific Business News.

Oahu

Residents Lobby for Car Race Track and Puu O Hulu Park Restrooms. Car racing proponents and leeward coast residents lobbied the Honolulu City Council today. Hawaii Public Radio.

Wastewater spill from Meadow Gold Dairy contaminates water near Ala Moana. The Department of Health's Clean Water Branch was notified of a wastewater discharge from Meadow Gold Dairy at 826 Cedar Street. An estimated 3,250 gallons of wastewater spilled. It has since been stopped. KHON2.

Honolulu rail car transported from Honolulu Harbor to Waipahu. The first of four rail cars that make up the fourth train for the city’s upcoming 20-mile rail line was transported to the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation’s rail operations center in Waipahu from Honolulu Harbor Tuesday morning. Star-Advertiser.

A Mom Struggles Mightily As Law Lets Son Defy Doctor’s Orders. The Kanehoe woman says her son’s condition has deteriorated, partly because Hawaii allows people as young as age 15 to refuse inpatient psychiatric treatment. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Military’s Mauna Kea rec area plans a no-go. The military has retreated from a plan to conduct special reconnaissance training at the Mauna Kea Recreation Area, where role-playing soldiers armed with guns would try to hide from observers. West Hawaii Today.

One of lower Puna’s most popular beach parks will officially reopen next week after a six-month-plus closure because of lava. Isaac Hale Beach Park, also known as Pohoiki beach park, will reopen at 1 p.m. Dec. 6 after a blessing ceremony, the county Department of Parks and Recreation said in a statement Tuesday. Tribune-Herald.

Isaac Hale Beach Park, also known as Pohoiki Beach Park, will reopen to the public on Thursday, December 6th. Big Island Video News.

Isaac Hale Beach Park: A landmark for most beachgoers, home to one family. KITV.

Salary Commission Chairman Hugh Ono, who led the board through double-digit raises for county elected officials and department heads, resigned Tuesday. West Hawaii Today.

The Maunakea Visitor Information Station will adjust its hours and suspend its stargazing program ahead of the start of a construction project. The six-month-long project, which will begin in January, is aimed at improving safety and access for visitors at the popular, but at times overcrowded, stop along the Maunakea Access Road. Tribune-Herald.

The number of downed deep wells in North Kona hasn’t changed as four of the region’s 14 water sources remain out of commission. A 10 percent voluntary conservation on water use in the area also remains in effect. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Attack on the coqui frog. Haiku residents band together to stem spread of loud invasive species. Maui News.

Adjustments Made to Some Central and West Maui Bus Routes. Beginning Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, select Maui Bus routes will change. Maui Now.

Kauai

New county planning director appointed. Kauai County Planning Department Deputy Director Kaaina Hull will take over as planning director starting next week. Garden Island.

Danners won’t face prosecution. The Kauai County prosecutor has declined to pursue trespassing and interfering with a government agent charges against Native Hawaiian activist Robin Danner and her son, Garrett Danner, that grew out of a confrontation in Anahola last month. Garden Island.

Commentary: County Council show goes on – a ship tossing in the sea. Unfortunately, if the meeting held by the incoming council is any indication, our newly elected Kauai County Council is starting off on the wrong foot. Garden Island.

High bacteria count discovered at Prince Kuhio Park and Koloa Landing. KITV.