Spike in COVID-19 cases, holes in testing protocol threaten Hawaii reopening plans, doctor calls for halt to quarantine lifting, governor to meet with mayors, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 cases in Hawaii, Department of Health

Experts say Hawaii on track to see more spikes in COVID-19 cases. With COVID-19 cases spiking and mask wearing mixed, some experts are concerned that the new number of new infections will continue to swell. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii’s CVS trans-pacific testing partnership leaves holes for 72-hour window. To help with testing travelers, the state has partnered with CVS, but there may be some issues with the program, including a requirement that would make the partnership practically useless to Hawaii residents. KHON2.

Mayors to meet with governor on plans to lift travel quarantine amid COVID-19 spike. On Wednesday, Governor David Ige will meet with county mayors to discuss plans moving forward. KHON2.

Prominent Hawaii doctor says state should delay plan for trans-Pacific visitors. One of Hawaii’s most visible physicians on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic said Tuesday that Gov. David Ige should rethink the state’s plan to allow out-of-state visitors who arrive with a negative COVID-19 test in hand to bypass a 14-day quarantine starting Aug. 1. Tribune-Herald.

Ige says spike in new COVID-19 infections is manageable, but warns that could change. The governor sought Tuesday to reassure residents that an alarming spike in new COVID-19 infections is “manageable right now,” but warned that could change quickly and said more surges in infection might close some businesses or delay tourism’s reopening. Hawaii News Now.

Gov. David Ige says Hawaii is ‘well prepared’ to deal with coronavirus spike as the state marks its highest daily increase in new cases. Hawaii officials are urging residents to remain vigilant as the state marked its highest daily surge in new coronavirus cases since the start of the outbreak in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii officials react to highest case count in a single day since COVID-19 pandemic began. Governor David Ige claims the numbers are expected and manageable and that the state is prepared, while Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson calls the trends disturbing. KITV4.

State reports highest daily number of new COVID cases since March. Tuesday’s total was the largest reported daily number of cases since the state’s pandemic emergency was declared March 4, eclipsing the previous high of 34 cases on April 3. Tribune-Herald.

41 New COVID-19 Cases in Hawai‘i Marks Largest Single Day Increase. There are 41 new COVID-19 cases reported for Hawaiʻi today, marking the largest single day increase in cases since the pandemic began. Maui Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — JULY 7: 41 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. A record number of COVID-19 cases were confirmed Tuesday. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Tuesday, July 7th: 41 New Cases Reported. The majority of the newly reported COVID-19 cases are on Oʻahu, state health officials announced today at noon. Big Island Video News.

Hawaii Updates: 41 New COVID Cases Set Record; Bar, Gym Clusters May Prompt Reopening Rollback. The Hawaii Department of Health today reported 41 new cases of COVID-19, a state record for daily cases since the pandemic began. Thirty-eight cases are on Oahu, 2 on Kauai and 1 on Hawaii Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

A colored placard system could soon identify businesses abiding by COVID precautions. The Health Department's Food Safety Branch said once the plan is approved by the Attorney General’s office, details will be released. But it could very well be similar to the health inspection placard system for restaurants and food safety. Hawaii News Now.

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Kouchi business gets PPP funds. A company that Hawaii Senate President Ronald Kouchi owns shares in and is employed by received a small business coronavirus relief loan from the U.S. government, according to data released by the Small Business Administration. Associated Press.

Lawmaker honored at memorial service held at state Capitol. Precautions to curb the spread of COVID-19 might have kept crowds of mourners away from Tuesday’s memorial service for state Sen. Breene Harimoto at the state Capitol, but legislative colleagues and other officials were there to offer ample praise for a man they described as humble and courageous. Star-Advertiser.

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U.S. steps up firepower as China consolidates gains in South China Sea. The USS Nimitz and USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier strike groups recently demonstrated what the Navy called “unmatched sea power” while conducting rare dual-carrier operations in the South China Sea, as military muscle flexing continues on both sides of growing discord in the region. Star-Advertiser.

Aggressive seaweed smothers one of world’s most remote reefs. Researchers say a recently discovered species of seaweed is killing large patches of coral on once-pristine reefs and is rapidly spreading across one of the most remote and protected ocean environments on earth. Associated Press.

Oahu

Mayoral candidates offer ideas for tackling homelessness. A dozen candidates for Honolulu mayor presented a wide variety of approaches to the vexing issue of homelessness on the island during an early morning forum Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Mufi Hannemann: He Was Mayor Once Before. Will That Help Or Hurt With Voters? In the Honolulu mayor’s race, a seasoned politician like Hannemann can tout his successes but also has a long record ripe for scrutiny.  Civil Beat.

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Mother and son among 4 city employees with positive coronavirus tests. Four city employees have now tested positive for COVID-19, including the latest: an employee who works out of a Halawa base yard clearing sewage wastewater drains and his mother, who works for the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation, city officials said today. Star-Advertiser.

4th Honolulu Employee Tests Positive For COVID-19. A mother and son tested positive as Hawaii hit its highest number of daily cases yet. Civil Beat.

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New program hopes to keep fishing afloat. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced a new “fish to dish” program to help Hawaii’s ailing fishing industry. Star-Advertiser.

City throws a line to the longline fishing industry with a new program. Nearly 350,000 fish portions will be distributed to Oahu families over the next five months. Hawaii News Now.

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Voters who miss registering online still have options. With the state this year switching to a “vote by mail” format, Oahu residents who don’t register online may register at voter service centers at Honolulu Hale and Kapolei Hale from July 27 through Aug. 8, primary election day. Star-Advertiser.

New stadium plan expected to pass Senate. State lawmakers are poised this week to pass the last major piece of stadium legislation before the state begins soliciting bids for a public-private partnership in the development of the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District. Star-Advertiser.

Iwilei ballrooms fall victim to pandemic. The Pomaikai Ballrooms at Dole Cannery — dependent on large gatherings that are no longer allowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic — closed for good Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

COVID-19 Positive Individuals Visited Big Island on Business Trip, State Says. Details on the cluster were sparse and did not include the name of the business that planned the trip, the location from which the group traveled to the Big Island, or how many people were part of the group. Park did say that the interisland travelers in question visited both sides of Hawai‘i Island and that a few have already tested positive for COVID-19. The rest are currently under self-quarantine. Big Island Now.

Factory-built housing raises concerns: Council committee advances 197-page construction code revamp. A County Council panel tried to balance affordable housing and jobs Tuesday before advancing the framework for a revamped construction code folding in building, plumbing, electrical and energy components. West Hawaii Today.

Resolution calls for halt to controversial 5G development. The Hawaii County Council will consider pursuing action to bar 5G cellular network development on the Big Island until the controversial technology is proven to be safe. Tribune-Herald.

Bill would incentivize conservation, reforestation of native trees. As part of an effort to stimulate reforestation efforts on the Big Island, the County Council will consider a bill that would lower property taxes for owners of certain forest lands. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

County not looking at furloughs, pay cuts. Governor said cuts may be inevitable as federal funds run out. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino said Monday that pay cuts and furloughs for county workers are not being considered at this time, but added that “nothing’s off the table” as Hawaii continues to feel the economic effects of COVID-19. Maui News.

Proposed Charter Amendments on Friday’s Council Agenda. Six proposals to reform the structure of Maui County’s government will be considered for passage on first reading on Friday at 9 a.m., Councilmember Michael J. Molina announced today. Maui Now.

Maui restaurants plead for rule changes to stay in business. The Maui Restaurant Hui estimates that there are 10,000 unemployed chefs, cooks, and staff members from the more than 150 eateries in the group. Hawaii News Now.

Maui home sales down 20% in June, but new listings increase. Home sales on Maui declined by more than 20% in June, compared to the same month last year, but new listings for both single-family homes and condominiums increased, and pending sales for single-family homes rose by 22%, according to statistics from the Realtors Association of Maui. Pacific Business News.

Kauai

KVB offers insights to reopening efforts. Part of Gov. David Ige’s announcement to reopen August 1 included a point that travelers may bypass the state-mandated 14-day quarantine by showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of landing. Garden Island.

Texas man, 36, arrested at Kauai hotel for violating quarantine rules after insisting on a taxi. Kauai police have arrested a Texas man for violating Hawaii’s mandatory, 14-day quarantine rule for out-of-state visitors after he insisted hotel staff call a taxi for him. Star-Advertiser.

Kauai Food Businesses Persist During Pandemic Thanks To Grant. With money from Common Ground, two companies are finding ways to scale up and pivot away from tourism despite COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Hawaii PPP recipients include Trump hotel, hospitals, newspapers; police reform bill passes Legislature; Ige warns of financial crisis, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Trump hotel in Waikiki ©2020 All Hawaii News

Trump Hotel In Waikiki Received Millions From Small Business Bailout. While President Donald Trump doesn’t own the property, he does license his name to the California company that does. Civil Beat.

Over 3,000 Hawaii PPP loan recipients named in transparency effort. A jewelry store chain, two hospitals and a private school are among the biggest Paycheck Protection Program loan recipients in Hawaii, according to data released Monday. A condominium-hotel tower in Waikiki affiliated with President Donald Trump also has benefited from the program, the data shows. Star-Advertiser.

These Hawaii Businesses Got Federal Loans During The Pandemic. The U.S. government finally released the names of companies participating in federal coronavirus relief programs after months of obfuscation. Civil Beat.

Federal loans helped keep thousands of Hawaii businesses afloat during pandemic. More than 24,000 Hawaii-based businesses and non-profit organizations applied for federal loans to help keep employees paid during the coronavirus pandemic, according to data released by the U.S. Department of the Treasury on Monday. Hawaii News Now.


Explore the SBA data on businesses that received PPP loans. Washington Post.

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Does Hawaii Have A Grip On COVID-19? Health officials are expressing concern over a recent spike in cases, but say Hawaii has the capacity it needs to scale back the travel quarantine. Civil Beat.

Surge in cases elsewhere forcing state leaders to reassess reopening plan set for Aug. 1. Hawaii is still planning on allowing tourists without a mandatory quarantine on August 1, provided they get a COVID-19 test within 72 hours of landing and that test is negative. But Governor David Ige admitted in a press conference Monday afternoon that the surge in cases from other states is concerning. Hawaii News Now.

Ige outlines features of new financial plan to cope with COVID-19 pandemic. In light of the looming financial challenges, Ige said the state is seeking a loan from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, implemented a hiring freeze, is working with state agencies on possible reductions and wants to stop non-personnel expenditures. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii’s state government is facing a ‘financial crisis’. Hawaii’s state government is facing a $2.3 billion loss in revenue over the next two fiscal years as it prepares to invite trans-Pacific travelers back to the islands Aug. 1. Star-Advertiser.

State facing $2.3B in lost tax revenue due to coronavirus pandemic. The financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Hawaii is beginning to come into focus, Gov. David Ige said Monday ― and the picture isn’t pretty. Hawaii News Now.

State facing massive projected budget shortfalls, increasing to $6.4 billion in 2026.  Governor David Ige warned the state of Hawaii Monday that there is a budget shortfall of $2.3 billion looming in the fiscal year 2021, but projections forward are more daunting. KHON2.

Governor Warns Of Future Financial Challenges. Hawaiʻi revenues are expected to drop by $2.3 billion in fiscal years 2020-21, says the Council of Revenues, forcing the State to consider potential cuts. Big Island Video News.

‘Looming Financial Crisis’ Ahead for Hawai‘i as Tax Revenues Plummet. The Council on Revenues predicts Hawai‘i will lose out on $2.3 billion in tax revenues over the next 12 to 15 months. Big Island Now.

Gov. Ige Outlines How COVID-19 Has Impacted the State’s Finances. During the pandemic more than 200,000 residents lost their jobs and filed for unemployment. Maui Now.

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Police reform bill passes; law would require county departments to disclose identity of an officer upon suspension. The Legislature passed a police reform bill Monday that would make public the identities of police officers who have been suspended or discharged, putting them on equal footing with other public agency employees. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature Removes Police Exemption For Misconduct Cases. The bill now goes to Gov. David Ige who can approve it, veto it or let it become law without his signature. Civil Beat.

Police accountability bill headed to Ige’s desk. A bill that would identify fired or suspended county police officers is headed to Gov. David Ige’s desk. West Hawaii Today.

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Hawaii Senate committee rejects Gov. Ige’s pick for state director of finance. The Senate Ways and Means Committee this morning voted to reject the appointment of state Director of Finance Craig Hirai, the second time in a week that one of Gov. David Ige’s cabinet appointments has been jeopardized by Senate push-back. Star-Advertiser.

Senate committee recommends rejection of Ige’s BLNR nominee. A state Senate committee voted Monday to recommend against confirming Gov. David Ige’s nominee to represent Hawaii Island on the state Board of Land and Natural Resources. Tribune-Herald.

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Substitute teachers’ unemployment benefits in limbo in Hawaii. When public schools shut down in Hawaii in March, substitute teachers were able to file for unemployment insurance, but that money stopped flowing in June. Star-Advertiser.

Advocates: Lack Of Interpreter Services At Unemployment Office Is Illegal. Immigrants and people who don’t speak English have had a hard time accessing unemployment benefits. Civil Beat.

COVID-19 clusters form after people skip masks, distance. State health officials said Monday that recent clusters of the coronavirus detected in Hawaii have been associated with people not wearing masks and not social distancing. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii Updates: 7 New COVID-19 Cases; Mayor Says Spike In Oahu Cases 'Concerning'. The state's total case count now stands at 1,030 with 19 deaths. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Monday, July 6. One new case of COVID-19 was reported on Hawaiʻi Island at noon on Monday, part of the 7 new cases reported statewide. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Warnings, citations given on Oahu for face mask violations.  On Oahu, Honolulu Police tells us from July 3-5 it has issued 108 warnings and 2 citations for face mask violations. KHON2.

Local security companies say they're being asked to help enforce COVID-19 guidelines. Star Protection Agency and Securitas tell KITV4 that they're being asked to help make sure customers wear face masks and follow other guidelines issued by Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell. KITV4.

Gyms battle germs as officials consider rollbacks of high-risk businesses. There’s a cluster of 9 coronavirus cases that has been linked to an unnamed but temporarily closed Oahu gym, and Governor Ige said Monday that gyms may be the type of business that could shut down down again if positive tests continue to rise. Hawaii News Now.

Judge blocks auction of Abigail Kawananakoa’s belongings. An auction of 94-year-old Campbell Estate heiress Abigail Kawananakoa’s belongings can’t go forward until a conservator is named to handle her finances, a judge ruled Monday. Associated Press.

Punahou School prepares to welcome back students on-campus in August. Due to COVID-19, instruction went online back in March and it has remained that way during the summer. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Plea deal still on table in alleged child starvation. A plea deal is still in the works for a 52-year-old Hilo man accused of starving his 9-year-old daughter to death more than four years ago. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Dairy milks any business it can get. As sales decline during pandemic, Surfing Goat Dairy fights to stay afloat. Maui News.

Kanaha Hotel opening pushed back a year. Public meeting to be held on formerly named Windward Hotel. Maui News.

Kauai

Newest cases travel related. Two new positive cases of COVID-19 were announced by the Kaua‘i District Health Office on Monday, bringing the cumulative total to 42 cases, with the number. Garden Island.

New life for Alekoko Fishpond. For the first time in over half a century, The Alekoko Fishpond is clear of adult mangrove. Garden Island.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

BREAKING: Federal judge rules Hawaii quarantine reasonable during COVID-19 pandemic - full order included

Federal courthouse in Honolulu ©2020 All Hawaii News

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


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

Hawaii Department of Education sets back-to-school protocols, Caldwell expands mask order, Senate committee advances COVID-19, public monitoring bills, tax director steps down, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Social distancing students PC:Hawaii Department of Education

State’s public schools unveil plans for reopening amid pandemic. Hawaii’s public schools will welcome back students Aug. 4 with new protocols and a mix of traditional in-school instruction and distance learning in a move to limit the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Here’s How Hawaii Plans To Bring Kids Back To School This Fall. Individual public schools have until Wednesday to decide whether students will be on campus full time in the fall, or whether they will offer a different learning model. Civil Beat.

Learning curve; Lessons from pandemic help shape DOE guidelines for 2020-21 school year. The state Department of Education is planning to “Return to Learn,” releasing on Thursday its school reopening plan for the upcoming 2020-21 academic year. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaiʻi DOE Releases School Reopening Plan. The Hawai‘i Department of Education says public schools are preparing to safely welcome back students and staff in the upcoming 2020-21 school year. Big Island Video News.

‘Return To Learn’ HDOE plans Aug. 4 reopening. Public schools are set to reopen on Aug. 4 with a plan to blend distance learning and face-to-face instruction, the Hawai‘i Department of Education announced Thursday. Garden Island.

DOE Unveils Return to Learn Plan for Hawai‘i Public Schools. The Hawai‘i State Department of Education today unveiled its Return to Learn: School Reopening Plan that public schools are using to prepare for the “safe and healthy” return of students and staff during the upcoming 2020-21 school year. Maui Now.

Return to Learn: Hawai‘i public schools preparing to safely welcome back students and staff. The Hawai‘i State Department of Education has released its Return to Learn: School Reopening Plan that public schools are using to prepare safe and healthy learning environments and worksites for the upcoming 2020-21 school year. KHON2.

Department of Education introduced a plan to welcome back students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The one constant in every model is social distancing, weather in a classroom or cafeteria. KITV4.

Teachers union isn’t on the same page as DOE on what ‘social distancing’ means. HSTA demands the DOE adhere to a 6 foot rule. Hawaii News Now.

HSTA expresses dissatisfaction with social distancing guidelines set forth by DOE. The Hawaii State Teachers Association expressed its dissatisfaction with the social distancing which would require students to be six feet apart when facing each other, but three feet apart when facing the same direction. KITV4.

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Interim Hawaii tax director withdraws from state Senate confirmation process. In a new sign of strains between state senators and Gov. David Ige’s administration, interim state Tax Director Rona Suzuki said today she has asked Ige to withdraw her name from consideration after learning the Senate Ways and Means Committee planned to recommend that she not be confirmed to the permanent post. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Legislature Advances Vaping Ban, Police Reforms, Vacation Rental Crackdown. Dozens of bills met the Thursday deadline to pass before the 2020 session ends next week. Civil Beat.

Controversial pandemic powers bill moves forward. A Big Island state senator was the lone dissenting vote in the Ways and Means Committee on a controversial measure that would give the state health director sweeping powers to declare a public health emergency and, with authorization of the governor, to screen, test and monitor travelers. Tribune-Herald.

‘Place of stay declaration form’ draws concerns: Vacation rental bill clears last Senate committee. The inclusion of a “place of stay declaration form” for all travelers in Hawaii in a gut-and-replace bill about vacation rentals raised eyebrows among some who otherwise support the bill. West Hawaii Today.

Ban On Side Gigs For Mayors, Governor Clears Legislature. House Bill 361 now goes to Gov. David Ige for approval or veto. Civil Beat.

State Senate to hold memorial service for late Sen. Breene Harimoto. The Hawaii State Senate will hold a memorial service for the late Sen. Breene Harimoto on Tuesday in the Senate Chamber. Star-Advertiser.

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Native Hawaiian health care systems to see $17M in federal aid. Native Hawaiian Healthcare centers across the Islands are set to receive almost $17 million in federal aid, congressional officials announced Tuesday. Pacific Business News.

VIRUS TRACKER — JULY 2: 20 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. A new cluster of infections is associated with a flight attendant training at the Hawaiian Airlines headquarters. Civil Beat.

20 New COVID-19 Cases. The Hawai’i Health Department reported 20 new cases today. Seventeen cases are on Oahu, most tied to identified cases or clusters, and three cases are on the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

New COVID-19 cases, including 8 at Hawaiian Airlines, hit as state begins monthlong push to reopen tourism. Eight Hawaiian Airlines flight attendants and a Hawaii State Hospital contractor are among the new COVID-19 cases the state is grappling with as officials begin the monthlong push to reopen Hawaii tourism. Star-Advertiser.

8 Hawaiian Airlines Employees Diagnosed With COVID-19. The report of eight Hawaiian Airlines employees diagnosed with COVID-19 will not impact the company’s plans to resume more routes to its US mainland gateway cities in the coming weeks. Big Island Now.

Contractor at Hawaii State Hospital tests positive for COVID-19. The Hawaii Department of Health confirmed today that a Hawaii State Hospital contractor has tested positive for COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Delays Ruling On Request To Lift Quarantine. The case appears to turn on how much discretion the federal court will give Gov. David Ige to respond to a public health crisis. Civil Beat.

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Survey Shows Harsh Financial Realities Facing Many Hawaii Residents. A recent survey shows 45% of residents have experienced a decrease in household income and 13%  received help from a food bank or drive. Civil Beat.

Survey: 45% of Hawaii households have seen their incomes decline during the pandemic.  Forty-five percent of Hawaii households have seen their incomes decline during the COVID-19 pandemic and 1 in 4 are past due on some bills, according to a large new survey that underscores the scope of economic pain families in the islands are experiencing. Hawaii News Now.

Bank of Hawaii Foundation releases findings from COVID-19 research survey. The COVID-19 in Hawaii study is the largest research survey of its kind to provide specific feelings, fears and financial hardships related to the virus during the heart of Hawaii’s shutdown. KITV4.

Bankruptcy filings soar in Hawaii as economic fallout of pandemic widens. Bankruptcy filings in Hawaii soared 21.8% in June as the coronavirus pandemic continued to wreck havoc on the state’s economy. Hawaii News Now.

Efforts to combat unemployment fraud create new headaches for filers. Residents seeking unemployment benefits or trying to file weekly certifications are encountering new headaches as the state scrambles to address fraudulent claims. Hawaii News Now.

State releases more updates on unemployment insurance information. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) released more updates on unemployment insurance claims information. KHON2.

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2,424 Air Arrivals to Hawai‘i on Tuesday was Highest Number Since Quarantine Began. A total of 754 visitors and 516 residents were part of the incoming passengers aboard 24 arriving flights. Maui Now.

Wednesday marked Hawaii’s highest count of visitor arrivals since statewide lockdown. The Hawaii Tourism Authority reported today that some 754 visitors were among the 2,424 passengers who came to Hawaii Wednesday on 24 flights. The visitor count was the highest since COVID-19 tourism lockdowns began about 14 weeks ago. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii visitor arrivals reach highest single-day number since the quarantine began. A total of 754 visitors arrived in Hawaii on Wednesday, marking the highest number of visitor arrivals on a single day since the mandatory 14-day quarantine was put in place in late March. Pacific Business News.

State epidemiologist says COVID-19 battle is still not over. Contact tracing continues to be a major tool for the Department of Health in following the steps of the coronavirus within the community, the state’s lead epidemiologist said there are finding a recurring pattern in new cases. KHON2.

Register now to vote in 2020 Primary Election. New Hawai‘i voters have until July 9 to register to vote in the 2020 Primary Election. Registered voters will automatically receive their ballot in the mail starting July 21. Garden Island.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell expands Oahu’s face mask requirements. Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Thursday announced a new face mask mandate for all indoor public spaces as well as outdoors when physical distancing is difficult to maintain. Star-Advertiser.

Face Masks Now Required In Private Offices In Honolulu. New rules announced Thursday expand when and where people on Oahu are required to cover their face to reduce the risk of transmitting or catching COVID-19. Civil Beat.

Ahead of busy holiday weekend, mayor expands mask order in push to prevent spread of virus. The mayor has strengthened his mask order for Oahu, saying they’re now required in all indoor public settings and outdoors if social distancing isn’t possible. Hawaii News Now.

Face masks now mandatory on Oahu. Make sure you have your protective mask or shield when you leave the house because wearing a non-surgical grade protective face covering is now required indoors and in outdoor areas where you are not able to social distance. KHON2.

Castle & Cooke to begin sales for Koa Ridge community. Castle & Cooke Hawaii has announced that it will soon begin sales of its Koa Ridge community in Mililani. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

New Invasive Pest Threatens Big Island Range Lands, Watersheds. A relatively new invasive pest is terrorizing Big Island pastures and moving disturbingly quickly up the Kohala Coast. The two-lined spittlebug, first identified in South Kona in 2016, attacks most types of grasses. Big Island Now.

Maui

Ige OKs extension of Hana roadblock. Access to East Maui to remain limited to residents until July 15. Maui News.

Maui Restaurants Outline 7 Requests to the Department of Liquor Control. The Hawaiʻi Restaurant Association issued an open letter this month on behalf of a hui of restaurants in Maui County to the Department of Liquor Control saying the industry has been “devastated” by the COVID-19 pandemic and needs help. Maui Now.

Protocols and Procedures to Protect OB Patients at Maui Memorial Medical Center. Today’s guest is Dr. Jennifer Mathieu, an OBGYN with Maui Lani Physicians and Surgeons and OB Department Chair for Maui Health. Maui Now.

Kauai

Disconnection suspensions continue. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative has extended its suspension of service disconnections through July 31. Garden Island.

Virus sends Summer school online in Kekaha. Kekaha Elementary School’s summer school program has gone back online because an individual associated with the school is among the existing COVID-19 cases on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

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

Hawaiian Airlines loaded for service ©2020 All Hawaii News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Supreme Court rules for Hawaiians in homelands case, Gender X driver's licenses available, Senate panel nixes aid package to shipper Young Brothers, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaiian man with children at Lalakea ©2020 All Hawaii News

Hawaii Supreme Court rules state must pay Native Hawaiians damages. The Hawaii Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of Native Hawaiians seeking damages over decades of waiting for homestead leases. KHON2.

Justices fault state for mismanaging Hawaiian land trust. The Hawaii Supreme Court issued a stinging rebuke Tuesday to the state for what the justices unanimously called wrongful conduct that has resulted in the state’s failure to reduce a growing wait list of Native Hawaiians seeking homesteads. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Supreme Court rules in favor of Hawaiian homelands beneficiaries. After more than two decades, there’s a new ruling over the lengthy Department of Hawaiian Homelands wait list. It could mean the state pays tens of millions of dollars to beneficiaries. Hawaii News Now.

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State forges ahead with plan to reopen tourism with testing, despite potential loophole. The plan to relax quarantine restrictions and reopen Hawaii’s tourism industry starts in about a month, but many say a big loophole still exists. Hawaii News Now.

Lots Of Questions Surround Hawaii’s Pre-Travel Testing Program. The proposal requires travelers get a COVID-19 test at least three days before departing for Hawaii, creating concerns about who would provide the testing. Civil Beat.

Travel officials work on messaging campaign to inform visitors of state rules. Officials in the tourism industry have about a month to prepare a communication plan for out-of-state visitors to inform them of the changes to the quarantine rules, as the state moves forward with plans to get visitors tested for COVID-19 before they visit.  KHON2.

Hawaii residents OK with shopping, not so much with gyms, survey finds. A statewide survey by SMS Research & Marketing Service Inc. released Tuesday found a plurality of respondents — 46% — having visited shopping centers; a much more wait-and-see attitude was expressed toward other services and activities such as hair salons, sit-down restaurants and gyms. Star-Advertiser.

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Gender neutral option available for state credentials beginning July 1. The Hawaii Department of Transportation announced that on July 1, 2020, there is a new gender option for State Identification cards, driver’s licenses, and commercial driver’s licenses. KITV4.

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Legislation stalls to aid interisland cargo firm Young Brothers. Hawaii’s regulated interisland ocean cargo transportation monopoly is still treading water after a fizzled effort to provide the company, Young Brothers LLC, with public aid. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers take up bailout bills as Young Brothers container mishap investigation continues. As the investigation into the loss of cargo containers from a Young Brothers barge transiting to Hilo Harbor continued Tuesday, so did efforts to keep the 120-year-old shipper afloat. West Hawaii Today.

12 of 21 shipping containers still missing. More than half of the containers that fell from a Young Brothers barge north of Hilo last week remain unaccounted for and another sunk as the investigation into the incident continues. Tribune-Herald.

Cargo Containers Removed From Hilo Bay. The US Coast Guard continues its investigation into 21 cargo containers that slipped off the Ho Omaka Hou barge in Hilo Bay on Monday, June 22. Big Island Video News.

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Student Press Freedom Bill Dies In Committee. A bill strengthening Hawaii student journalists’ First Amendment protections was near crossing the finish line. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers again move forward on ban of large-capacity rifle magazines. A proposed ban on large- capacity rifle magazines that hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition is back on track to pass at the state Capitol despite resistance from dozens of gun owners and despite concerns raised by the state attorney general that the ban as proposed is probably unenforceable. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiian Airlines adds more neighbor island flights. Hawaiian Airlines is increasing neighbor island flights starting Thursday, and again after July 4 to provide more options during the upcoming holiday. KHON2.

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Close to 90% of Hawaii’s COVID-19 patients have recovered at home. Statewide, there are 244 intensive care beds. As of Tuesday, 48% were occupied, mostly by non-COVID patients. Meanwhile, 10% of the state’s 459 ventilators are in use. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii records 18 new coronavirus cases as statewide total rises to 917. Hawaii saw 18 new coronavirus cases today as the statewide total number of infections since the start of the outbreak rose to 917, state Department of Health officials said in their daily midday count. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — JUNE 30: 18 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii. Most of the new cases were on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Tuesday, June 30: 18 New Cases. The State of Hawaiʻi reports 18 newly reported cases of COVID-19 statewide, with most of the new cases identified on Oʻahu. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Mayor Kirk Caldwell on Tuesday announced plans to revitalize Chinatown, as well as new initiatives to make it cleaner and safer so that people will visit the neighborhood again. Star-Advertiser.

To woo customers back, city announces Chinatown beautification plan.  Mayor Kirk Caldwell wants to clean up Chinatown ― again. On Tuesday, he announced several new initiatives to help bring people and business back to the historic neighborhood. Hawaii News Now.

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Candidate running for public office claims he's exempt from quarantine, falsely arrested. 61-year-old Michael J. "Kilomana" Danner is running for State Representative of District 49 as a Republican candidate, but two arrests in the past two weeks may have tainted his resume. KITV4.

2 returning Oahu residents arrested for allegedly violating state’s mandatory quarantine. State officials said two Oahu men, both of whom recently returned from trips out of state, are the latest to be arrested for allegedly violating Hawaii’s mandatory, 14-day quarantine. Star-Advertiser.

Two Returning O‘ahu Residents Arrested for Quarantine Violations. A Kaneʻohe man and a Mililani man are the latest people to be arrested by Special Agents from the Department of the Attorney General Investigations Division for violating the state’s current mandatory traveler quarantine. Maui Now.

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Lawmakers on the House Finance committee voted to save the state's only work furlough program for women. Earlier in June, the Department of Public Safety announced it would end the program at YWCA Fernhurst due to budget cuts because of the COVID-19 pandemic. KITV4.

New Complex Area Superintendents For Kauai, Oahu’s West Side. In total, three veteran complex area superintendents are retiring from DOE. Civil Beat.

To help keep virus out and residents safe, a senior living facility turns to tech. At One Kalakaua Senior Living in Makiki, there are strict protocols in place to protect more than 100 staff and nearly 190 residents. The facility also says it’s the first to install high-tech devices with two-levels of screening. Hawaii News Now.

Pedestrians In Hawaii Need More Space. Here’s How To Give It To Them. COVID-19 has more Honolulu residents out walking. ‘Quick Build’ projects could keep it that way. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Feds indict 3 former HCCC guards in beating of former inmate. A federal grand jury indicted three former guards at Hawaii Community Correctional Center for allegedly assaulting an inmate housed at the Hilo jail and attempting to cover up their misconduct. Tribune-Herald.

3 former Hawaii island correctional officers charged for 2015 attack on inmate. Three former correctional officers at Hawaii Community Correctional Center have been charged with assaulting an inmate in 2015 and attempting to cover it up. Star-Advertiser.

Former Hawaii Corrections Officers Indicted For Assault Of Inmate. The defendants are expected to appear before a federal judge Wednesday. Civil Beat.

Former corrections officers indicted for allegedly assaulting a Hilo inmate. An indictment by a federal grand jury has been unsealed in the case of three former corrections officers accused of assaulting an inmate, then trying to cover it up. Hawaii News Now.

Three former corrections officers face federal charges. Three former corrections officers are facing federal charges after prosecutors say they assaulted an inmate. KHON2.

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Kaleikini gets tepid endorsement from Senate panel: Hawaiian Homes Commission appointee confirmation proceeds to full Senate. After grilling Michael Kaleikini for about an hour, the Senate Hawaiian Affairs Committee on Tuesday agreed to recommend his confirmation to the Hawaiian Homes Commission to the full Senate. West Hawaii Today.

Kaleikini Nomination To Hawaiian Homes Commission Advances. Mike Kaleikini, a Puna Geothermal Venture executive who is well known in the local business community, will fill the East Hawaiʻi commission seat previously held by Wally Ishibashi. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Maui Tropical Plantation Announces Indefinite Closure. The Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapū announced this morning its indefinite closure amid ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui Now.

Popular Maui visitor attraction closes .... with dim hopes for reopening. The Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu Valley announced Tuesday that it has closed indefinitely. Hawaii News Now.

$10 Per Week Summer Youth Program Offered for Working Families in Maui County. The County of Maui announced a summer youth program in partnership with Maui Family YMCA that begins next Monday, July 6, 2020. Maui Now.

Possible detonation of ordnance off Molokini is raising concerns. State DLNR, DOH asks for public to be patient, informed. Environmentalists, community members and lawmakers have expressed concern over the handling of unexploded WWII ordnance off Molokini and are opposed to detonating the devices in place for fear of possible irreversible damage to coral reefs, ocean life and the island itself. Maui News.

Kauai

Federal money for Kaua‘i Bus. The Kaua‘i Bus has received just over $4 million in federal money as part of a virus-related relief initiative aimed at rural transit operations and maintenance expenses. Garden Island.

Hokuala, Timbers Resort reopen today. Just in time for the long Fourth of July weekend, the Timbers Resort and the Ocean Course at Hokuala announced its opening, effective today. Garden Island.