Lawmakers reach tentative deal on budget patch, loopholes let visitors break quarantine, Honolulu bus driver attacked for requiring mask, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2020 All Hawaii News

Legislative Deal In The Works Would Use Untapped Funds To Dodge Budget Cuts. A new financial plan taps into mostly unused funds while moving around money for affordable housing and Aloha Stadium. Civil Beat.

As the state legislature is set to reconvene on Monday, lawmakers have reached a tentative deal on a key bill allocating $862 million in state CARES Act money to the neighbor islands and for emergency services. What’s unusual about the measure is that it’s lawmakers ― and not Governor David Ige’s administration ― who are directing how the emergency money should be spent. Hawaii News Now.

Reconvened Legislative Session Seeks to “Plug $1 Billion Hole” in Budget. When the 2020 Legislative session reconvenes on Monday, May 11, the State Capitol will be secured and closed to the general public. Only lawmakers and essential staff will be given access to the building. Maui Now.

State House committee looks at when, how to reopen economy at Monday meeting. Lawmakers hear informational briefing on the economic impact of COVID-19 in Hawaii. KITV4.

How COVID-19 affects the Legislature's process, and the public's participation. Even though the public is not physically allowed into the building, there are many ways they can participate in the process and contribute to the outcome of proposed legislation. KITV4.

Push is on to fund programs to prevent Hawaii’s homelessness. With the state Legislature re-starting on Monday, nonprofit organizations and the state’s homeless coordinator are warning about a surge in newly homeless families and the need to continue funding social service programs even as the economy shrinks. Star-Advertiser.

=====

State’s 14-day quarantine has loopholes. A majority of the 460 visitors who flew to Oahu on Friday and Saturday said they would be staying with family or friends. Star-Advertiser.

Visitors find loopholes to break quarantine, residents frustrated. For the second weekend in a row North Shore beaches were packed with people. KHON2.

=====

Lack of clear plan to replace tourism leaves Hawaii’s economic future in doubt. The Hawaii economy needs a reset, and COVID-19 has provided the opportunity to do it. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii homeowners, including super rich, try to tap COVID-19 small business aid. Multiple Hawaii homeowner associations have applied and been approved for forgivable Payroll Protection Program loans despite not being eligible, according to a local Small Business Administration official. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Missed An Opportunity To Fix Its Benefits System Before COVID-19 Struck. A proposal following the Great Recession to build a single benefits portal for multiple agencies “died on the vine.” Many believe it would have helped alleviate the current crisis. Civil Beat.

Ige Balks At Proposal To Loan Money To Jobless In Limbo. Hawaii’s jobless can’t afford to go two months without income — and they can’t wait much longer for their claims to be approved, Sen. Laura Thielen said. Civil Beat.

=====

Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders Confront High Rates Of COVID-19 In Many States. In many Western states, as well as Arkansas which has a large Marshallese population, these communities have virus rates that far exceed their share of the population. Civil Beat.

A Hawaiian in New York warns islanders to stay on guard against COVID-19. In light of scientists’ warnings of a second COVID-19 wave, Honolulu expatriate Kiana Davenport, who has been confined alone in a rented New York City studio apartment since March 22, said she feels alarmed by the relaxed attitude she encounters when she calls to check on family back home. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Just 4 new COVID-19 cases total reported over the weekend. But even with the overall low daily case counts, authorities said while the flattened curve is a positive affirmation of strict precautions, residents shouldn’t grow complacent. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Reports 1 New COVID-19 Case Sunday. The Hawaii Department of Health reported one new COVID-19 case Sunday, on Oahu, bringing the state’s total for the pandemic to 632. Civil Beat.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates for Sunday, May 10. One newly reported case of COVID-19 on Oʻahu brings the cumulative total cases statewide to 632, as Hawaiʻi island holds at 75 cases. Big Island Video News.

1 new COVID-19 case on Oahu brings the state total to 632. 1 new COVID-19 case on Oahu brings the state total to 632. KHON2.

DOH Reports 1 New Coronavirus Case Overnight. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported one new case of coronavirus overnight, raising the statewide total to 632. Big Island Now.

1 New Case Sunday on O‘ahu: Hawai‘i Coronavirus Total Now 632. As of noon on Sunday, May 10, 2020, there are 632 cases of COVID-19 identified in Hawaiʻi with one new case in the state on the island of Oʻahu. Maui Now.

Department of Health removes Hawaii COVID-19 deaths from ‘released from isolation’ category. After including Hawaii’s COVID-19-related deaths in its “released from isolation” category for months, the Hawaii Department of Health has decided to remove them. Star-Advertiser.


Oahu

No face mask, no ride: Man arrested for striking bus driver, door with crutch.  man has been arrested in Honolulu after allegedly hitting a city bus driver with a crutch, and damaging the door — all because he refused to keep on a face mask. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu bus driver attacked after confronting rider without mask, police say. Honolulu police arrested a 63-year-old man after he allegedly attacked a city bus driver who instructed him to keep his mask on to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

4 cited for hiking the closed Sacred Falls trail on anniversary of 1999 tragedy. Three people were let off the hook while trying to hike Sacred Falls — but four others weren’t so lucky. Two Honolulu residents and two residents of Brazil and Argentina got citations from DLNR enforcement officers Saturday. Hawaii News Now.

Condoms, other personal items found in Waikiki massage parlor raid. Prosecutors raided a local massage parlor on Kalakaua Avenue as part of a crack down on the sex trafficking trade in Honolulu. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Special council meeting to hear bill to create luxury home class. A new tax classification for properties assessed at more than $2 million will be the subject of a special County Council meeting this week — and for the first time since the COVID-19 restrictions began, the public will be able to testify in person. West Hawaii Today.

Jail population plummets: HTH sought list of inmates released to due pandemic — but there isn’t one, officials say. The state Department of Public Safety and Hawaii Judiciary have been reducing the population in the state’s jails and prisons because of a Supreme Court order for them to do so in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maunakea observatories prepare to reopen. Maunakea Observatories are gradually resuming activities after being given the go-ahead to reopen last week. Tribune-Herald.

On a roll: Roberts takes over Hele-On contract. The first new buses in five years and a new contractor had the Hele-On bus system on track for a better year. Until COVID-19 hit. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New managing director charter proposal set for November ballot. County Council OKs putting governance change to voters. Maui News.

Maui Council Has Figured Out How To Do Virtual Meetings Right. Unlike the other two county councils and the Honolulu City Council, Maui still allows live, public participation despite the pandemic. Civil Beat.

Methods behind contact tracing revealed. Maui health officials have digital resource as backup but prefer the human touch. Maui Now.

Kauai

Mayor tightens budget belt. On Friday, Mayor Derek Kawakami submitted a supplemental budget that showed a $10 million reduction in the proposed operating budget, to stand at $250,777,323, and a $22,642,237 capital improvement projects budget. Garden Island.

Making a comeback. The waters in ‘Anini Bay are starting to clear after heavy rains in April clouded much of the bay with light sediment. Garden Island.

Just 1 new COVID-19 case: Hawaii opens more parks, stores, Senate panel mulls tough new tourist rules, Obama building Oahu home, Zuckerberg donates to Kauai community, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Lt. Gov. Josh Green at May 6, 2020 press conference on Facebook Live

Ige, Green make case for partial opening of economy. With Hawaii on a two-week roll of single digit cases of COVID-19 per day, Gov. David Ige and Lt. Gov. Josh Green teamed up Wednesday to explain and defend the first phase of reopening the state’s economy, which starts today. Star-Advertiser.

=====

State parks reopen on a limited basis. Select Hawaii state parks have been reopened for active hiking and beach exercise during daylight hours, subject to restrictions and continued requirements that visitors respect social distancing, stay in motion and avoid gatherings “of any sort,” the state Division of State Parks announced Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Opens Select State Parks. The Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Big Island Video News.

More beach parks, hikes open for exercise; social distancing rules still apply. As more parks and beaches reopen ahead of Mother’s Day weekend, it’s important to remember that rules still apply and will be enforced. KHON2.

On beach closures, the governor and lieutenant governor aren’t on the same page. Despite the growing list of businesses and state parks that are set to reopen, Gov. David Ige says Hawaii’s beaches are still off limits for relaxing and sunbathing. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Just 1 new coronavirus case in Hawaii, bringing statewide tally to 626. Hawaii’s coronavirus tally has risen by just one case today to a total of 626, the state Department of Health announced. The new case was an adult on Oahu. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii reports just 1 new COVID-19 case, bringing statewide total to 626. Hawaii is reporting just one new COVID-19 case Wednesday, bringing the statewide total to 626. The new case is on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

DOH Reports 1 New Case of Coronavirus Statewide. Hawai‘i Department of Health officials reported one new case of coronavirus overnight, bringing the statewide total to 626. Big Island Now.

Just 1 More COVID-19 Case Reported On Oahu. Gov. David Ige said Wednesday that he is lifting some restrictions because Hawaii has gone two weeks with fewer than six new cases confirmed per day. Civil Beat.

Lt. Gov. Green Compares Hawaii COVID-19 Rates To Nation. Hawaiʻi has the lowest mortality rate from COVID-19 infection in the entire United States, says Lieutenant Governor Josh Green, as well as the second lowest case rate in the nation. Big Island Video News.

=====

Tougher rules ahead for quarantined visitors. New measures are being proposed to make sure travelers are not carrying COVID-19 into the state, some of these include testing before travel as well as tougher rules under quarantine. KHON2.

State Senate panel makes recommendations to beef up quaratine enforcement. A state Senate committee is recommending that hotels not issue room keys to visitors during the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period, nor should visitors be allowed to rent cars while officially quarantined. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii lawmakers make series of suggestions to crack down on visitors who violate quarantine. A legislative committee charged with helping to steer the state’s response to COVID-19 is making a series of suggestions aimed at better enforcing a mandatory quarantine for visitors. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Businesses seek clear path and protocols for reopening, as clock ticks on companies’ survival. Business owners and workers are happy to see some sectors start to get the green light to re-open, but the approval process has some baffled. KHON2.

Gov. and mayors clear the air on when businesses can open. Oahu retailers will open next week Friday. Other counties such as Kauai and the Big Island can open Thursday. Maui will open on Monday. KHON2.

Ige Says Child Care Centers Can Reopen. But Are They Ready? At least 100 private, licensed facilities have never closed since the pandemic, limiting care to children of essential workers. Civil Beat.

State Lacks Child Care Plan As Parents Return To Work. Gov. David Ige’s newest emergency proclamation allows more businesses to reopen their doors as early as tomorrow. Hawaii Public Radio.

To ease burden on system, state asks laid off workers to file certifications only on certain days. Thousands of laid off workers frustrated with trying to file weekly certifications for their unemployment claims are being encouraged to instead file on designated days. Hawaii News Now.

Ige halts suspension of open government laws. The latest emergency proclamation by Gov. David Ige steps back from blanket suspensions of the state open meetings and open records laws that he had issued in mid-March in an effort to lessen the spread of the coronavirus. Star-Advertiser.

Low Risk Safety Checks Can Resume May 15. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation is coordinating the reopening of stations for Periodic Motor Vehicle Inspections (PMVI or Safety Checks) starting Friday, May 15. Maui Now.

Safety checks to resume starting May 15. Safety check certificates and stickers expiring on or before May 31, 2020, will remain valid until August 31, 2020. All other safety checks that expire in 2020 will be valid for an additional three months after the 2020 expiration date. KHON2.

Home sales in Hawaii take hit amid pandemic. Hawaii’s real estate market is now getting pounded from complications of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu faces nine-figure budget shortfall, City Councilmember suggests bonds. The City and County of Honolulu announced Wednesday that it is expecting a budget shortfall of $130 million in 2021. KHON2.

Oahu property tax payers can pay in installments. All property tax payers on Oahu will have more time to pay the major portion of their August tax bills under a plan unveiled by Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu To Allow Delayed Property Tax Payments. Property tax payments can be delayed to help during the pandemic but won’t be forgiven. Civil Beat.

City gives relief to property owners in regards to their next tax bill. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is giving some relief to property owners when it comes to paying their next property tax bill. KITV4.

=====

Oahu retailers left puzzled over ‘lack of collaboration’ in reopening announcement. After the governor’s announcement Tuesday about reopening a large portion of Hawaii’s economy, Oahu retailers started scrambling to figure out how they’d reopen in two days. Then came a sudden change: The Governor’s Office said the reopening date for Oahu was actually May 15. Hawaii News Now.

Confusion over order hits O'ahu retailers. Store owners say they know things will be different but they also say staying closed too long isn't an option. KITV4.

=====

4,000 line up again for free food. For the second time in a week, thousands of cars lined up for more than a mile and waited for hours to pick up 50 pounds of free food. Star-Advertiser.

Many heartbroken to see long lines again at food assistance site. Hundreds of vehicles once again lined the street for Oahu’s second food distribution event at Aloha Stadium. KHON2.

=====

UH Is Making Students Vacate Campus Housing Next Week. About 750 students still live on campus at the University of Hawaii Manoa. But most are being told to move out by May 16 even as the stay-at-home order makes it hard to find housing. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Moving To Expand Crackdown On Homeless. The city’s sit-lie ban could soon include streets around the Institute for Human Services, but shelters don’t have enough room for those living in encampments. Civil Beat.

Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Kealohas Stuck In Limbo. Gerard Puana’s attorney wants a federal judge to lift a temporary hold on the case so that a resolution can be found. Civil Beat.

On property under construction, Waimanalo looks forward to a very presidential neighbor. The Waimanalo beachfront property made famous by the hit 1980s television series “Magnum PI” has been mostly leveled and new structural elements are being constructed. State records indicate the property with multiple homes and a guard shack could be slated for the former President Barack Obama and his family. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Mayor sets reopening requirements for some businesses and parks. A gradual reopening of Hawaii County businesses, parks and community facilities moved another step forward Wednesday, with Mayor Harry Kim announcing his latest set of rules. West Hawaii Today.

More Businesses, Parks to Reopen in Hawai‘i County. Hawai‘i County is moving forward with plans to reopen additional businesses and parks as COVID-19 case numbers continue to dwindle. Big Island Now.

Big Island retail businesses allowed to reopen on Thursday. On the Big Island Mayor Harry Kim issued COVID-19 Emergency Rule 4 on Wednesday expanding on the Governor's newest proclamation. KITV4.

FULL TEXT: Mayor Kim’s COVID-19 Emergency Rule Number 4. The day after Governor David Ige replaced his "stay-at-home" order with a “safer-at-home” order, Hawaiʻi County Mayor signed his own set of new emergency rules. Big Island Video News.

=====

Some parks reopen as restrictions ease. Several state and county parks around the island have reopened as restrictions on outdoor activities are gradually relaxed. Tribune-Herald.

Spring delivery: Monk seal born on West Hawaii beach. For a third straight year, a Hawaiian monk seal has been pupped on West Hawaii’s shores, officials confirmed Wednesday. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui retail stores to reopen Monday, Mayor Michael Victorino announces. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino has announced that retail stores — including those in malls — in the county will be allowed to reopen Monday as long as they follow social distancing guidelines. Star-Advertiser.

Retail at Shopping Malls on Maui to Open on Monday, May 11. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino provides his daily update on COVID-19 response in Maui County and offers some clarification on the Governor’s latest “Safer-at-Home” order for phased reopening of businesses in Hawaiʻi. Maui Now.

Retail store given green light to open on May 11 in Maui County. Mayor Michael Victorino announced that retail stores and retail stores in shopping malls will be allowed to reopen as long as they follow physical distancing requirements, starting Monday, May 11, in Maui County. KHON2.

Victorino mulling whether to follow Ige’s lead on malls. 6-foot distancing, masks for staff, customers among rules considered. Maui News.

=====

Part of Mākena State Park and Polipoli Springs Open for Hiking and Exercise, But Not Gatherings. The DLNR Division of State Parks is re-opening select parks and monuments across the state with an emphasis on social distancing and exercise, and continued restrictions on gatherings of any sort. Maui Now.

Joint effort on Maui produces 40 ventilators for COVID-19 response. A joint effort involving Maui County and tech companies has led to the production of 40 bridge ventilators to help aid health care providers in their COVID-19 response. Star-Advertiser.

Emergency Ventilators Produced on Maui for COVID-19 Response Unveiled. Newly manufactured emergency ventilators produced on Maui by HNu Photonics to help increase Maui County’s emergency healthcare capacity amid the COVID-19 pandemic, were unveiled today by Maui Mayor Michael Victorino. Maui Now.

Kauai

Kaua'i County mayor announces retail stores set to reopen Thursday. Kaua'i County Mayor Derek Kawakami laid out the type of services allowed to reopen. KITV4.

Some state parks were reopened Wednesday for day beach use or hiking, with restrictions on “gatherings of any sort” according to a news release from the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. On Kauai, the state parks that remain closed are Polihale State Park, which is closed for road repairs, Kalalau Trail beyond Hanakapiai Valley and the Wailua River State Park – though the river access for paddling is allowed at the Kaumuali‘i section of the river. Garden Island.

Some local businesses open up. Many businesses are opening their doors today, thanks to Governor David Ige’s seventh proclamation relating to COVID-19.  Garden Island.

Dr. Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg’s Chan Zuckerberg Kaua‘i Community Fund of Hawai‘i Community Foundation has provided a second grant to help Kaua‘i residents suffering financially from the COVID-19 situation. Garden Island.

Honolulu mayor wants Kauai, 'some neighbor island,' to be test case for reopening; visitors keep slipping through the cracks, private sailboats unregulated, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Rainbows on Kauai ©2020 All Hawaii News

Honolulu Mayor Slammed For Offering Kauai As Coronavirus Test Case. Mayor Kirk Caldwell backed away from comments suggesting reintroducing tourism on Kauai could show whether it was safe statewide. Civil Beat.

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell criticized for suggesting Kauai could be a ‘test case’ for restarting tourism. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is being sharply criticized today for suggesting in a televised interview Wednesday evening that Kauai or “some neighbor island” might be the best place to test out the re-launch of the state’s tourism industry as the risk of COVID-19 recedes. Star-Advertiser.

=====

More than 3,500 visitors have come to Hawaii since quarantine began. More visitors came to Hawaii by air Wednesday bringing the total visitor count to 3,561 since the state initiated emergency orders designed to collapse tourism to conserve resources for locals. Star-Advertiser.

Authorities hope arrests of visitors for quarantine violations deter others from coming. The state is exploring more ways to monitor visitors who are supposed to be quarantined for 14 days after arriving in the islands. Hawaii News Now.

Enhanced screening measures at airport to help enforce quarantine mandate. State officials will now check the forms and confirm residents addresses through property tax records and phone numbers provided on the ag form will be called before leaving the airport to make sure it’s a real number. KHON2.

United will require flight attendants to wear masks or face coverings while on duty. United will require flight attendants to wear face coverings or masks while they're on duty starting April 24th. KITV4.

CEO: Hawaiian Airlines Got $654 Million From Feds. The airline says the money helps buy time for Hawaii’s largest private employer, which is burning through more than $4 million per day. Civil Beat.

Sailboats Finding Few Safe Harbors As Hawaiʻi Ports Lock Down. While many locations are looking to ease their COVID-19 restrictions – others are still on lockdown, including Hawaiʻi. This presents potentially dangerous challenges for those sailing the oceans in private boats. Hawaii Public Radio.

=====

Hawaii Receives $16M From Feds To Boost Testing, Contact Tracing. Rural hospitals also received more than $800,000 to purchase personal protective equipment and perform more testing. Civil Beat.

4 New COVID-19 Infections Reported In Hawaii. In a span of the last three days, the Department of Health also reported seven more seniors have been hospitalized. Civil Beat.

Angst rises as Hawaii’s archaic system prevents timely unemployment payments. Jodi Kealoha, owner of 808 SUP, “A Mom and Son Shop,” applied for unemployment the fourth week of March after COVID-19 lockdowns closed her Haleiwa business. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell outlines plan to reopen businesses. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell said Thursday he might allow some businesses, shut down due to the coronavirus, to open starting May 1. They include golf courses, automated car washes and limited operations of car dealerships and real estate companies, as well as other smaller businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Caldwell: Reopen Golf Courses First, Church Services Will Have To Wait. While there’s no timeline yet, the city has plans in place for when businesses can reopen and certain activities can resume. Civil Beat.

Mayor unveils plan to gradually reopen Honolulu. Two days after Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced parks would reopen on April 25th, he unveils his plan to gradually reopen additional services to the public. KHON2.

=====

Honolulu Will Hold Off On Purchase Of Questionable Virus Test Kits. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the city will talk with the state Department of Health before proceeding with the $1 million plan. Civil Beat.

In wake of state’s concerns, Caldwell puts his ambitious COVID-19 testing plan on hold. In a blow to the city’s push to “test, test, test,” Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s ambitious plan to provide 10,000 more coronavirus tests for Oahu residents is on hold. Hawaii News Now.

Screening and triage site for homeless expands at Keehi Lagoon. About 50 homeless people are staying in tents and being monitored at Keehi Lagoon Beach Park at the Provisional Outdoor Screening and Triage Facility, which is being expanded. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

3 tourists arrested in Hilo for quarantine violation. Two men and a woman, all from Everett, Wash., were arrested Wednesday in Hilo and charged with violating Gov. David Ige’s mandatory 14-day self-quarantine order for visitors to Hawaii. Tribune-Herald.

Three Visitors Arrested After Breaking Quarantine On Banyan Drive. Meanwhile, the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawai‘i has used $25,000 to send 19 visitors back to their airports of origin during the COVID-19 crisis. Big Island Video News.

=====

Kona Community Hospital reports first inpatient case of COVID-19. The patient tested positive for the novel coronavirus and was admitted to the hospital Wednesday, according to a statement provided by KCH spokeswoman Judy Donovan. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii COVID-19 Update: Kona Hospital Reports First Positive Patient. The adult patient, a resident with no history of travel, was admitted on Wednesday and is in stable condition, the West Hawaiʻi hospital reports. Big Island Video News.

=====

Emergency shelter to help get homeless off streets amid pandemic. The first residents of 32 temporary housing units in Hilo began moving in this week. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Mayor likely to extend emergency orders through May. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino on Wednesday pointed to the end of May as a possible time frame for the end of Maui County public health emergency orders. Maui News.

Staff still does ‘not feel safe’. More still needs to be done with contact tracing, testing, PPE at Maui Memorial. Maui News.

Restaurant had 65 COVID-19 contacts. Merriman’s Maui had outbreak; only 3 confirmed cases. Maui News.

=====

Supreme Court rebuffs Maui County in water pollution case. Maui’s multimillion-dollar appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court ended Thursday with a rejection of the county’s argument that it doesn’t need Clean Water Act compliance to inject treated sewage from its Lahaina sewer plant into ground­water that eventually winds up in the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

US Supreme Court Issues Ruling in Maui Clean Water Act Case. The US Supreme Court Thursday issued a ruling on the Lahaina injection well case which requires the federal government to regulate groundwater pollutants that find their way into navigable waters, such as oceans.  The case focused on discharge from the Lahaina Wastewater Reclamation Facility. Maui Now.

=====

Work Begins Monday on $3.15 Million Maui Lani Roundabout. Construction work on the Maui Lani roundabout project will begin Monday, April 27, at the intersection of Maui Lani Parkway and Kamehameha Avenue in Kahului, the County of Maui Department of Public Works announced this afternoon. Maui Now.

Kauai

Restrictions could be relaxed if no community spread. Some sectors of Kaua‘i’s local economy could reopen on May 3 if current COVID-19 trends continue, according to county officials, but only if evidence of community spread doesn’t spring up between now and then. Garden Island.

With promising signs, Kauai could be the first to slowly ease restrictions. Kauai has had some of the strictest rules in place since the early days of coronavirus in Hawaii, including an island-wide overnight curfew and a strong enforcement of travel quarantine rules. It’s resulted in a low case count of just 21 positives and no deaths. Hawaii News Now.

Falling through the cracks. One visitor to Kauai not informed about quarantine requirement. The Kaua‘i Police Department could not share how many check-ins they have done daily or share the number of people they are monitoring at this time, but travelers and visitors have confirmed they were checked on in-person. Garden Island.

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

Hawaiian Airlines flight at Honolulu airport ©2020 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

=====

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

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

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

=====

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

=====

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

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

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

=====

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

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

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

=====

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

=====

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

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

=====

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

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

=====

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

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

Maui

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

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

=====

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

Hawaii mulls public employee pay cuts, COVID-19 cluster at Kona fast-food eatery, Honolulu tightens mask requirements, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii Government Employees Association workers HGEA Facebook photo

Unions: Governor is proposing 20% pay cuts for ‘most’ state employees. The governor has proposed a 20% pay cut for “most” public employees as early as May 1, according to two public sector unions. Hawaii News Now.

HSTA says Ige proposing pay cut for teachers, first responders, and nurses. The Hawaii State Teacher’s Union says it has received notice from Governor David Ige’s office, alerting them about a possible 20% pay cut. KHON2.

=====

Hawaii explores visitor crackdowns as more keep coming. Emergency Management Agency Incident Commander Kenneth Hara said he is working with state Attorney General Claire Connors to see whether it’s possible for Hawaii to restrict visitors who arrive for leisure from making lodging reservations. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s daily visitor count hits highest level since quarantine started. The count of daily trans-Pacific visitors rose to its highest level since the first day that Hawaii’s mandatory 14-day self-quarantine was implemented for all arriving passengers. Star-Advertiser.

=====

State hopes to start giving out extra unemployment payments in a week. The state hopes to start distributing by April 22 the first of many thousands of checks that will include the extra $600 per week in unemployment benefits that has been promised by the federal government, according to Scott Murakami, state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations director. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Updates Unemployment Application To Include Pacific Migrants. The state’s fix isn’t perfect but it allows migrants from Micronesia the same level of access to unemployment benefits as other legal workers. Civil Beat.

State launches new online portal for tracking unemployment claims. The status form went online Tuesday after multiple complaints from people waiting to receive benefits. Hawaii News Now.

$20 million in unemployment benefits paid out so far in April. The state Director of Labor and Industrial Relations on Tuesday gave lawmakers some good news regarding unemployment benefits claims, which have skyrocketed during the economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

=====

Safety versus liberty: Constitutional freedoms tempered by COVID-19 crisis. When a constitutional lawyer says the Hawaii government is within its rights to restrict basic freedoms during the coronavirus pandemic, you can probably take that to the bank. West Hawaii Today.

Lockdown Not in Violation of Constitutional Rights, Law Professor Says. A common argument against Hawai‘i’s statewide lockdown is that it’s a violation of an individual’s personal freedoms — restricting movement, erasing jobs and punishing anyone who doesn’t comply. Big Island Now.

=====

Hawaii Experts Disagree Over Importance Of Testing In Reopening Economy. Experts in academia and healthcare have unveiled separate plans for safely reopening Hawaii’s economy. Both frameworks rely heavily on testing, but the state health director says that isn’t where the focus should be. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaii is making progress in ‘flattening the curve.’ Now what? The business closures, school shutdowns, social distancing, and masks — it’s all working. State leaders say we all need to keep doing it. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s daily count for new coronavirus cases has been trending downward in recent days, in an encouraging sign that social distancing efforts are working. But officials warned Tuesday that returning too quickly to business as usual could be disastrous. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Lags Behind Other States In Release Of COVID-19 Data. State health officials say they are trying to release more data and are open to providing whatever information people want to know. Civil Beat.

=====

Is Hawaii ready to handle a wave of mass evictions? With nearly a quarter million Hawaii residents filing for unemployment, it stands to reason that the next crisis to hit the Islands will be mass evictions from people who cannot pay their rent. That's what a group of state Senators predicts, and they quizzed Attorney General Clare Connors about it on Tuesday. KITV4.

Lawsuit: Special Ed Students Need Extra Help When Schools Reopen. A potential class action suit proposes that the Hawaii DOE set parameters to assess the needs of Hawaii’s special education students during the school closures. Civil Beat.

Economists Seek Data To Help Hawaii Businesses. Detailed information can help policymakers steer assistance to needy areas and industries. Businesses across Hawaii are being asked to participate in a statewide survey designed to identify what businesses will continue to need assistance and to help plan for restoring the economy. Civil Beat.

State making sure safety-net programs continue uninterrupted during pandemic. Several state programs to assist with food, finances and child care are available during the COVID-19 crisis for those who might need help. Tribune-Herald.

Demand for food assistance in Hawaii skyrockets during COVID-19 crisis. With Hawaii’s economy in the tank due to the coronavirus pandemic, more people than ever are reaching out for food to feed their families. Star-Advertiser.

Deal to save Meadow Gold Hawaii collapses. A deal that would have saved Meadow Gold Hawaii has been dropped. On Monday, Meadow Gold’s parent company, Dean Foods, said it intended to close its Honolulu facility by April 30. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Mayor Caldwell mandates masks for business interactions. Starting Monday, everyone conducting a business transaction on the island will need to wear a nonsurgical mask. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu Will Require Masks At Businesses And Riding Transit. Starting Monday, all visitors to grocery stores and other open businesses will need to keep their faces covered with a mask, scarf, bandanna or other material. Civil Beat.

Under emergency order, city to make non-medical face masks mandatory in public. The city is making face masks mandatory for most interactions in public, including when visiting businesses, on the city bus, or when ordering from the drive-thru. Hawaii News Now.

=====

The Coronavirus Has Been Good For Hanauma Bay. Scientists says studies being done in the unusual absence of tourists will help them understand the impact of large numbers of people on the natural world. Civil Beat.

Visitor pays fine and apologizes for slapping Hawaiian monk seal on Oahu. The attorney for a man who slapped a Hawaiian monk seal while visiting Oahu several months ago has issued an apology on behalf of his client. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

COVID-19 cluster tied to Kona McDonald’s. State health officials said there is no “significant risk” to the public after a dozen people associated with a Kailua-Kona fast-food establishment tested positive for COVID-19. West Hawaii Today.

Second cluster of Hawaii coronavirus cases found at McDonald’s in Kona. An employee who contracted the new coronavirus inadvertently infected six other workers at McDonald’s locations on Makala Boulevard at Kona Commons and at Walmart in Kailua-Kona. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 Cluster Linked To Kona McDonalds. State officials eventually confirmed the "limited, localized community spread of COVID-19 among employees at a Kona food establishment" took place at two Kona McDonalds. Big Island Video News.

12 Positive Cases Tied to McDonald’s COVID-19 Cluster in Kona on Hawai‘i Island. On Hawaiʻi Island, a cluster at a fast food restaurant in Kona has resulted in 12 positive cases–including seven workers and five family members of two of the employees. Maui Now.

COVID-19 cluster prompts closure, cleaning of Kona fast food eateries. The state Health Department is investigating a cluster of coronavirus cases linked to two fast food eateries in Kona. Hawaii News Now.

DOH investigating localized community spread among McDonald's employees in Kona. The Department of Health is investigating a limited, localized community spread of COVID-19 among McDonald's employees in Kona. KITV4.

Kona Coronavirus Cluster Swells to 14. A cluster of coronavirus cases in Kailua-Kona has swelled from eight to 14 overnight and left both McDonald’s locations in West Hawai‘i closed indefinitely. Big Island Now.

=====

Kubota confirmed as Third Circuit judge. The state Senate announced on Monday announced the confirmation of Peter K. Kubota as Circuit Count judge of the Third Circuit. West Hawaii Today.

Kona airport to get $13M in federal funding. Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole will receive more than $13 million in federal funds after the U.S. Department of Transportation announced a $10 billion aid package to support airports nationwide. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mayor not taking position on calls to oust hospital leaders. He remains concerned about virus cluster but calls hospital safe. Maui News.

Things Got Out Of Hand Quickly At Maui Hospital. Staff at the Maui medical facility that is the center of a COVID-19 cluster describe a chaotic week on the job. Civil Beat.

16 tested after Kula Hospital employee comes down with virus. A total of 16 people who were believed to have been exposed to a worker with COVID-19 at Kula Hospital have been tested for the virus, according to a state official. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai mayor expands virus measures. Everyone over age 5 on Kauai must wear a cloth face mask during most activities while outside in public to curb the spread of COVID-19, according to a new county mandate. Star-Advertiser.

Council makes Brun ex-officio member. Kaua‘i County Councilmember Arthur Brun has been in federal custody in Honolulu since his arrest this winter. Garden Island.

Loosening up the rules. County of Kauai has loosened restrictions for construction and landscaping and for realtors starting today, cracking open the stay-at-home mandate and allowing some local residents to get back to work. Garden Island.

Lihu‘e Airport gets funding. The Lihu‘e Airport, Kaua‘i’s gateway to air travel, is scheduled to receive more than $13 million in funding. Garden Island.

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.

=====

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.

=====

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.

=====

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.

=====

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.

=====

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.

=====

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.