New state contact tracer on leave after Health Department upheaval, downsized 75th WWII anniversary commemoration held, many jobless still wait for unemployment checks, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Dr. Emily Roberson Aug. 20, 2020

More Health Department Drama: New Contact Tracing Head Asks For Leave. Announced with fanfare by Gov. David Ige last month, Emily Roberson says she is frustrated with trying to do her job and says leadership needs to make clear the chain of command. Civil Beat.

Newly hired head of Hawaii’s contact tracing program asks for leave, cites chain-of-command issues at Department of Health. A leave request Wednesday from the head of Hawaii’s COVID- 19 contact tracing program citing chain-of-command issues is reinvigorating calls to clean house at the state Department of Health. Star-Advertiser.

Head of state's contact tracing program is on leave. Emily Roberson has been on the job for about two weeks. Lt. Governor Josh Green told KITV4 part of Roberson's problems include micromanaging from Dr. Sarah Park. KITV4.

‘We With Sarah!’ Co-Workers Defend Embattled Epidemiologist. Campaign buttons, poster bear catchy slogans supporting Dr. Sarah Park. Civil Beat.

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Critics raise concerns over possible release of COVID-19 vaccine this fall. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green says he's been following the vaccine trials and believes more research and testing is needed before it's ready to be used on humans. KITV4.

State’s confusing COVID-19 reports make it difficult to track spread of virus, experts say. Data that doesn’t match, moving averages that don’t make sense — the state’s reporting of COVID-19 is confusing even for scholars analyzing the information. Hawaii News Now.

Health Department Struggled To Warn Young People About COVID, New Efforts Aim To Fix It. The state Department of Health continues to record a dramatic rise in COVID-19 cases among young people. One key reason may be that public messages to avoid the virus haven't yet effectively reached them. Hawaii Public Radio.

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State’s Acting Labor Director: We’re Ready To Handle A Surge In Jobless Claims. Those assurances come as DLIR still struggles to resolve thousands of complex claims that have proven difficult to resolve. Civil Beat.

State pledges to launch ’virtual call center’ to field questions about jobless benefits. The state says a “virtual call center” is in the works to deal with the endless delays on its unemployment hotline. Hawaii News Now.

The Cost Of Failure To Contain The Virus? Massive Layoffs. With no end in sight to the shutdown of tourism, dozens of companies have filed letters with labor officials outlining job cuts and extended furloughs. Civil Beat.

Hawaii’s jobless benefit boost may be used up. The new $400 weekly bonus is retroactive to Aug. 1 and may already be exhausted because state officials aren’t sure if they can obtain such funds beyond four weeks. Star-Advertiser.

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Defense Secretary Mark Esper and several World War II veterans from Hawaii mark the 75th anniversary of war’s end. The commemoration Wednesday on the fantail of the battleship Missouri — the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender on Sept. 2, 1945, in Tokyo Bay — featured 12 local World War II veterans and comments by Defense Secretary Mark Esper, among others. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii remembers end of World War II in scaled-back ceremony aboard Battleship Missouri Memorial . Defense Secretary Mark Esper stopped off in Hawaii on Wednesday to speak at a scaled-back and socially distanced ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial at Pearl Harbor, on whose decks Japan surrendered in 1945 in Tokyo Bay. Pacific Business News.

In somber ceremony, veterans and dignitaries mark 75th anniversary of the end of WWII. The Greatest Generation and its WWII veterans provide a legacy of service and sacrifice that we should all look up to, said Secretary of Defense Mark Esper on Wednesday at a ceremony aboard the USS Missouri to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Hawaii News Now.

Wednesday marks the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII. Wednesday, September 2 marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II where more than 400,000 U.S. service men and women made the ultimate sacrifice. KITV4.

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5 staff, 2 inmates within Department of Public Safety test positive for COVID-19. Within the division, there are now 49 active cases among staff: 43 at OCCC; two at Halawa Correctional Facility; two at the Women’s Community Correctional Center; and the two new cases within the Sheriff Division. Star-Advertiser.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 2: 339 New Cases, 1 Death In Hawaii. Some of the cases announced Wednesday were actually identified last month. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports 1 coronavirus-related death on Oahu and 339 new cases. Hawaii Department of Health officials today recorded one new coronavirus-related death and 339 new cases, bringing the statewide totals since the beginning of the pandemic to 75 fatalities and 8,991 cases. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Wednesday, Sept. 2nd: 339 New Cases, 1 Death. Big Island Video News.

339 New COVID-19 Cases, Includes 90 Cases From Delayed Reporting (302 O‘ahu, 2 Maui, 35 Hawai‘i Island). Maui Now.

Oahu

H-3 testing to proceed today despite federal objection. Drive-thru surge testing for COVID-19 is scheduled to continue on the H-3 Freeway today as the state defies the Federal Highway Administration for a second time and risks the loss of federal funding. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor Caldwell says Oahu lockdown remains at two weeks, for now. Nearly a week into Oahu’s stay-at-home, work-from-home order, it’s not clear whether it might have to be extended. Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the current plan is still to keep it for two weeks. KHON2.

Free COVID-19 tests at Kalihi public housing met with high demand. The effort to mass test residents for COVID-19 in Hawaii’s public housing is expanding. Hawaii News Now.

Chamber of Commerce asks city to delay plastic ban that takes effect in 2021. On January 2021, restaurants on Oahu will no longer be able to give people plastic utensils, straws or plastic bags with handles for take-out food. This is part of a law that passed last year. KHON2.

Corruption sentencing hearings for Katherine and Louis Kealoha rescheduled again. A U.S. judge today set a Nov. 30 sentencing date for retired Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha and his now-estranged wife, Katherine Kealoha, who was a former high-ranking city prosecutor. Star-Advertiser.

New HPD commission meets, as citations handed out are on the rise.  The newly assembled police commission held their first regular meeting Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.


Hawaii Island

County, state beach parks to close Friday as virus cases surge on Big Island. With COVID-19 cases on Hawaii Island continuing to surge, Mayor Harry Kim announced Wednesday that all county and state beach parks will close for two weeks starting Friday. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County Beach Park Closure: Amendments To Mayors Rule Detailed. Starting on September 4, beach parks can only be used to access to the ocean, exercising, fishing and gathering food, and using the bathrooms and shower facilities. Big Island Video News.

Gov Approves Mayor’s Request to Close Beaches for 2 Weeks. Gov. David Ige approves Mayor Harry Kim’s request to close Hawai‘i Island’s beaches for two weeks in an effort to stem the spread of COVID-19. Big Island Now.

Delegation seeks closure of Milolii Fishing Village due to virus. The entirety of Hawaii Island’s delegation asked Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim on Wednesday to restrict access to and test all residents of the Milolii Fishing Village in South Kona as COVID-19 cases rack up. West Hawaii Today.

Call For Miloliʻi Fishing Village Closure After COVID-19 Outbreak Reported. Lawmakers are asking Mayor Kim to close the South Kona fishing village and take other actions after a cluster of COVID-19 was identified. Big Island Video News.

18 more residents at state veterans home in Hilo test positive for COVID-19. More than half of the residents at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home have been infected by COVID-19. Tribune-Herald.

Council seeks scrutiny of FCC permits: Nonbinding resolution supports safety regulations of wireless facilities. The Hawaii County Council unanimously approved a resolution Wednesday supporting the Natural Resources Defense Council and other elected officials who have petitioned in federal court for stricter environmental review before the Federal Communications Commission approves wireless communication facilities and other sources of radiofrequency emissions. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

New Maui Partnership Assists Local Ranches While Providing Food to Those in Need. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino announced today a new CARES Act funded partnership with local ranchers to provide ground beef to Feed My Sheep and people in need. Maui Now.

A Second Maui Judiciary Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19. The Hawaiʻi State Judiciary confirmed a second positive COVID-19 case involving an employee at Hoapili Hale on Maui. Maui Now.

700 Lanai resort workers are put on furlough. More than 700 workers for Four Seasons Resorts Lana’i, who were furloughed Aug. 11, continue to receive medical benefits and will be brought back when the two luxury resorts reopen, resort officials said Tuesday. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai councilman’s meth ring trial postponed to next year. A U.S. judge today postponed trial for 12 people accused of drug trafficking in Hawaii, over the objections of a councilman accused of leading the ring. Associated Press.

Kaua‘i Veterans Center is still open for business. The Kaua‘i Veterans Council in Lihu’e was recently awarded a $62,660 Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act Grant from the county to help keep the Kaua‘i Veterans Center open to the public during this pandemic. Garden Island.

Unemployment fraud disrupting PUA. Steven Roy Carvalho submitted a full-page color print out of him holding up his driver’s license to his face. Surely, it’s him, but even that hasn’t been enough to prove his identity to the state. Garden Island.

Meet The New Cult In Town: Love Has Won, Now Quarantining On Kauai. Residents are concerned about the group giving the spiritual community there a bad name. Civil Beat.

H-3 tunnel coronavirus testing commences despite feds saying no, vets gather for 75th WWII anniversary, UH students investigated for recreating George Floyd death, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Cars line up for coronavirus testing Sept. 1, 2020 PC:Hawaii COVID-19 Joint Information Center

Hawaii Ignores Feds, Uses H-3 For COVID-19 Testing Anyway. Federal highway officials cited safety concerns and the military’s access between Pearl Harbor and Kaneohe Bay for their denial but the state is proceeding regardless. Civil Beat.

Feds spurn COVID-19 testing held on H-3 freeway. Hawaii officials acknowledged facing the potential loss of federal transportation funding after the Federal Highways Administration denied the state’s request to use the freeway for the event. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii moves forward with surge testing on H-3, despite feds saying no. In an unprecedented move by the local government, mass COVID-19 testing on the H-3 Freeway took place on Sept. 1 even though the federal government rejected the state’s request to shut it down. And the state plans to do it again on Sept. 3. KHON2.

H-3 freeway closure for COVID-19 testing continues without federal approval. State officials defended the use of the H-3 for non-transportation purposes, saying the need is worth the risk of the federal government possibly withholding future funding. KITV4.

‘You don’t need a reason’: Ige urges residents to participate in free COVID-19 testing. Cars lined lanes in both directions of the H-3 Freeway on Tuesday for a huge COVID-19 testing effort that’s scheduled to be repeated Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

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Hundreds of callers request information on hotel quarantine rooms. The Hawaii State Department of Health has screened about 350 to 400 calls a day from people asking about the hotel quarantine rooms for people who tested positive with COVID-19 or have been in close contact. KHON2.

The Cost Of Failure To Contain The Virus? Massive Layoffs. With no end in sight to the shutdown of tourism, dozens of companies have filed letters with labor officials outlining job cuts and extended furloughs. Civil Beat.

State forecasting grim economic forecast. The state is projecting the economy will contract by 12.3% in 2020, according to a state Department of Business, Economic Development &Tourism third-quarter report released last week that analyzes data between April and July 2020. Garden Island.

State and counties slow to spend billions in federal COVID relief. As COVID-19 continues to spread, mass layoffs are escalating and more small businesses are closing permanently. Meanwhile, the state and its counties are still sitting on more than $1 billion in federal relief funds. KHON2.

Hawaii DOE’s Distance Learning Tool ‘Very, Very Questionable’. An internal Department of Education document shows Acellus Learning Accelerator received mostly negative remarks in an early review by content specialists. Civil Beat.

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Vets, dignitaries to gather for ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the end of WWII. World War II veterans, US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper and a number of other dignitaries and invited guests will gather Wednesday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of the World War II with a somber ceremony aboard the USS Missouri. Hawaii News Now.

Live broadcast of 75th end-of-WWII commemoration begins this morning. The live broadcast today for the 75th end of World War II commemoration on the battleship Missouri in Pearl Harbor will be available via satellite around the globe beginning at 7:30 a.m. Hawaii time, officials said. Star-Advertiser.

For nisei veterans, 75th anniversary of the end of WWII evokes memories of shared sacrifice. As Hawaii marks 75 years since the end of World War II with a special ceremony Wednesday aboard the USS Missouri, it’s lost on no one that the number of veterans is dwindling. Hawaii News Now.

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University of Hawai'i taking action after a disturbing video is posted to social media. The University of Hawaii is taking action on Tuesday night after a video showing what appears to be students reenacting the death of George Floyd makes its way around social media. KITV4.

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Hawaii called hub for illegal cockfighting trade. Hawaii is “at the center of the cockfighting trade in the Pacific Rim” with the state acting as a hub for animal-fighting activities throughout the region, two animal advocacy groups said Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Animal Rights Activists Want Feds To Investigate Cockfighting. Animal Wellness Action says they’ve linked breeders in the Aloha State to buyers and chicken fighters in Guam. Civil Beat.

Hawaii officials urged to investigate rooster exporters. During a news conference Tuesday, Animal Wellness Action, an organization dedicated to end the exploitation of animals, announced the results of a months-long investigation into Hawaii’s involvement in the international trade of fighting roosters, identifying 22 people or organizations throughout the state thought to have exported such birds to Guam in the past three years. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii found to be among leading exporters of illegal cockfighting birds. An animal rights group found that Hawaii to be one of the nation’s leading exporters of cockfighting birds. Hawaii News Now.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 1: Four Deaths And 181 New Cases In Hawaii. One person died on Hawaii island and three people died on Oahu. Civil Beat.

Hawaii records 3 new COVID-19 fatalities on Oahu, 1 death at Hilo veterans home. Hawaii Department of Health officials today recorded four new coronavirus-related deaths and 181 new cases, bringing the statewide totals since the beginning of the pandemic to 74 fatalities and 8,653 cases. Star-Advertiser.

The Latest: 4 Deaths, 181 New Cases; H-3 Tests Begin Today; More Surge Tests Headed To Isles. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Tuesday, Sept. 1: Four New Deaths Reported, 181 New Cases. There were 181 newly reported cases of COVID-19 in the State of Hawaiʻi as of noon on Tuesday, health officials reported. Another four (4) deaths were also reported. Big Island Video News.

Oahu

Chasid Sapolu returns to Honolulu prosecutors office after receiving federal investigation subject letter in 2018. First Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Chasid Sapolu returned to work Tuesday for the first time in over a year and half, reporting to the Juvenile Offender Unit in the Honolulu Department of the Prosecuting Attorney. Star-Advertiser.

After nearly 2 years on leave, deputy city prosecutor returns to work. Almost two years after he received a subject letter from the US Department of Justice and went on leave, deputy city Prosecutor Chasid Sapolu is back at work. Hawaii News Now.

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Keith Amemiya, Rick Blangiardi collected, spent the most in Honolulu mayoral race. The two Honolulu mayoral hopefuls advancing into November’s winner-take-all matchup are the same two candidates who outraised and outspent a broad and diverse field of opponents. Star-Advertiser.

Queen’s to begin 18-month-long COVID antibody study among employees. Queen’s Health Systems is launching an 18-month-long antibody study. They’re hoping it will help with tracking the virus among its employees. Hawaii News Now.

City Council schedules meetings to discuss potential affordable housing project in Kailua. The Honolulu City Council will be meeting on three separate dates in September to discuss a proposed affordable housing project in Kailua. KHON2.

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2 Inmates Killed In 2 Weeks In Hawaii Correctional System. The latest death happened Monday evening in a crowded quarantine cell at OCCC. Civil Beat.

62-year-old OCCC inmate killed overnight, allegedly by another inmate. A murder investigation is underway at the Oahu Community Correctional Center after an inmate assault turned deadly. Hawaii News Now.

62-year-old inmate dies after allegedly being assaulted by another inmate. According to police documents, both males are inmates at a correctional facility. KITV4.

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Building once used by ‘Dog’ Chapman becomes housing for Native Hawaiians. Today, on the 182nd anniversary of Queen Lili‘uokalani’s birthday, the trust that bears her name is taking a more intensive approach to housing and helping young Native Hawaiian adults who have aged out of the foster care system and have few opportunities in the era of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Kaiser High farmers market ordered to shut down due to complaint. The Friends of Kaiser PTSA Farmer’s Market, held Thursday afternoons in Kaiser High School’s parking lot, closed last week after a complaint was filed with the state Department of Education, said Justin Mew, the school’s principal. Star-Advertiser.

New Royal Hawaiian Groin is first of several planned for Waikiki. The construction of a Royal Hawaiian Groin, billed as new but encapsulating the still-intact spine of its 93-year-old predecessor on Waikiki Beach fronting the eponymous pink hotel, is pau, the state Department of Land and Natural Resources announced in a press release last week. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Restrictions to Return to Big Island Beaches for Labor Day. Hawai‘i County plans to take preventative action to stop the Labor Day Holiday from producing major COVID-19 spreading events amid the current surge on the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Big Island Mayor Wants Extra Beach Restrictions For Labor Day. Harry Kim says he is waiting for approval from Gov. David Ige for a ban on beach gatherings Sept. 4-19. Civil Beat.

Big Isle Mayor: More Restrictions No Solution To COVID-19 Surge. Hawaiʻi County Mayor Harry Kim says further restrictions are not the answer in stopping a surge of COVID-19 cases and community spread on the Big Island. Hawaii Public Radio.

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Contact tracing app squeaks through: Council Public Safety Committee narrowly passes nonbinding resolution. A County Council panel Tuesday urged developers of a free, voluntary contact tracing app to talk directly with Mayor Harry Kim’s administration before the council takes a final vote on a resolution later this month. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii County’s top prosecutor said Tuesday all Big Island residents should be concerned about the Hawaii Supreme Court’s most recent order pushing the release of more detainees across the state. The Hawaii Supreme Court on Thursday issued its most recent pandemic-related order expanding the release of detainees to include those charged for certain petty misdemeanor, misdemeanor and felony offenses on all islands — not specific facilities. West Hawaii Today.

County’s ‘Bug Busters’ on the job to keep the community safe. Teams of Bug Busters have been hard at work at county facilities — focused on sanitizing high-traffic areas and high-touch surfaces seven days a week — since early March. Tribune-Herald.

Maunakea Master Plan to be completed by late next year. The master plan was established in 2000 to provide policy for UH to govern the Maunakea Science Reserve, but a long-awaited update to the plan will, among other things, provide a framework to reduce the number of astronomy sites at the mountain’s summit. Tribune-Herald.

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Luxury Yacht To Pay $100K For Dropping Anchor On Coral In Kailua Bay. The owners of the luxury yacht Formosa will have to pay $100,000 for an anchor drop that damaged coral in Kailua Bay. Big Island Video News.

Luxury yacht owners fined $100K for coral reef damage off Hawaii Island. The DLNR says Formosa Wealth Management Group, owners of the 197-foot luxury yacht, dropped their anchor in the Kailua Bay Zone of the Kona Coast Fishery Management Area in 2018. Hawaii News Now.

Maui

10 Employees at Maui’s Wailuku Police Station Test Positive for COVID-19 Since Aug. 27. A total of 10 employees at Maui Police Department’s Wailuku Station have tested positive for COVID-19 since the first case was reported at the department on Aug. 27. Maui Now.

MPD reports 7 new presumptive positive COVID cases among Wailuku employees. The number of COVID-19 cases tied to the Wailuku Police Station is now up to 10 after new test results were received. Hawaii News Now.

2 COVID-19 Cases Confirmed at Maui Prosecutor’s Office; 1 Case at Moloka‘i Baseyard. The Department of the Prosecuting Attorney recently reported two positive COVID-19 cases, according to Maui Deputy Managing Director Josiah Nishida. Maui Now.

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Maui Inmates Briefly Resist Orders To Return To Cells. Maui police were called to be on standby in case they were needed, according to jail officials. Civil Beat.

Attempted Disturbance at Maui Jail Quickly Contained. At about 2 p.m. Maui Community Correctional Center (MCCC) inmates in one module refused to go back into their cells. Maui Now.

MCCC inmates refused to go back to their cells. Inmates in a module at the Maui Community Correctional Center refused to go back to their cells around 2 p.m. KHON2.

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Maui News staffers bring home 21 SPJ Excellence in Journalism honors. The Maui News dominated the Daily Newspapers division, capturing four first places, including for reports on the Central Maui brush fire; a riot at Maui Community Correctional Center; a personal interview with the voice of the Portland Trail Blazers, a childhood hero; and a historical retrospective on Maui after the Pearl Harbor attack. Maui News.

Kauai

Fixing the water system in Moloa‘a Hui Lands. The Moloa‘a Irrigation Cooperative received a Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Grant from the county of $52,415 for water system improvements that will reduce the cost of water and leaks in the system. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Museum reopens with modified schedule. Doors to the Kaua‘i Museum gift shop open from 9:30 a.m. and remain open until 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday under the temporary new hours and dates. The rest of the museum is available through reservations-only tours created by the museum’s staff during the closure. Garden Island.

State Health Department director, corrections chief retire amid COVID-19 spike, Ige announces possible vetoes, police transparency bill approved, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Can Hawaii ‘Reset’ With New Public Safety And Health Directors? Gov. David Ige insists the abrupt departures of Bruce Anderson and Nolan Espinda were voluntary. Civil Beat.

Embattled health and public safety directors stepping down. Gov. David Ige announced on Aug. 31 that State Department of Health Director Bruce Anderson and Department of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda are retiring. KHON2.

State Health Director Bruce Anderson and Public Safety Department Director Nolan Espinda are leaving their posts. Hawaii’s top state health official, who has been widely criticized for his failure to keep COVID-19 infections under control, is leaving his post, along with the head of the state’s prison system, the scene of one of the largest outbreaks of the disease. Star-Advertiser.

State Health Director, Public Safety Director To Retire By End Of The Month. State Health Director Bruce Anderson and Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda will be retiring by the end of September. Both came under heavy criticism for what some saw as their inadequate response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases statewide and in the prison system. Hawaii Public Radio.

Directors of Health, Public Safety to step down amid criticism of state’s COVID-19 response. In an extraordinary development Monday, the governor announced that his directors of Health and Public Safety would be stepping down as the state faces growing criticism of its handling of a COVID-19 surge and a huge outbreak at its largest jail. Hawaii News Now.

Two Hawaiʻi State Department Heads Stepping Down. Governor David Ige today announced the retirements of health director Dr. Bruce Anderson and public safety director Nolan Espinda in September.  Big Island Video News.

Anderson, Espinda retiring; Ige announces new appointments. Gov. David Ige announced Dept. of Health Director Dr. Bruce Anderson and Dept. of Public Safety Director Nolan Espinda will retire in September. Garden Island.

Ige says he ’did not lose confidence’ in Health, Public Safety directors. Gov. David Ige stood by his embattled directors of Health and Public Safety on Monday, saying he accepts their decisions to retire but did not ask for their resignations. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii’s ‘2 Most Critical Weeks’: House Committee Seeks Strong State Action. A House special committee wants immediate attention to recommendations on efforts that need to happen soon to pull the state out of the coronavirus crisis. Civil Beat.

Lawmaker concerned crucial COVID-19 data is not tracked. House Speaker Scott Saiki worries that Health Department officials have not been cataloging specific data on COVID-19 infections that could help identify sources of the spread and lead to more targeted efforts to control the pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Commentary: The State's Stranglehold On Important Data During the Pandemic is Unforgivable. Government officials should be releasing more precise facts on how and where the virus is spreading. Civil Beat.

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Gov. David Ige considering salvaging vetoed funds when new federal jobless benefits expire. After vetoing a plan to add $100 in additional weekly state unemployment benefits, Gov. David Ige said Monday that he would consider using the funds when a new round of $300 in weekly federal unemployment payments runs out. Star-Advertiser.

Ige May Veto Domestic Violence Measure, 5 Other Bills. The governor has until Sept. 15 to decide. Leaders in the Legislature will be meeting to discuss a potential override. Civil Beat.

Six bills on governor’s intent to veto list touch on various topics. On the intent to veto list includes bills that would provide funding for the Department of Education and Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

Police reform bill not on Ige’s ‘intent to veto’ list. Gov. David Ige on Monday said he will allow a bill that would identify suspended or fired county police officers to become law. West Hawaii Today.

Ige Addresses Leadership Changes, UI Benefits, And Vetoes. Big Island Now.

Governor Ige explains how Hawaii is spending federal CARES Act money. He said $463 million has already been allocated for rental assistance, homeowners, evictions, and businesses impacted by the pandemic. KITV4.

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Officials say Hawaii’s health care system is under great stress. Hawaii hospital officials said Monday that the state’s health care system has been able to handle the state’s COVID-19 surge so far by shifting personnel, recruiting new workers, modifying hospital spaces and working long hours. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii records 7 more COVID-19 fatalities, bringing statewide death toll to 70. At the start of August, the state’s coronavirus-related death toll stood at 26, but after four weeks of triple-digit increases in daily new cases, Hawaii is ending the month with a total of 70 fatalities. Star-Advertiser.

Hawai‘i Reports Deadliest Day of Pandemic With 7 Coronavirus-Related Deaths. The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) reported seven new coronavirus-related deaths on Monday, in the grimmest day the state has seen since the pandemic began. Big Island Now.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 31: 7 Deaths And 133 New Cases In Hawaii. Health officials also reported 133 new COVID-19 cases, including 107 on Oahu, 24 on Hawaii island, and one on Maui. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Monday, August 31: 7 New Deaths Reported. Big Island Video News.

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Hawaiian Airlines issues furlough notices to pilots and flight attendants, signals more cuts ahead. Hawaii’s largest carrier, Hawaiian Airlines, announced on Monday more than a thousand job cuts as the coronavirus-related drop in travel demand and lockdowns continues to create economic woes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Elections 2020: General Election Ballot. There are races for Congress, the mayor’s offices on Oahu and the Big Island, seats in the Legislature and OHA. And there are dozens of charter amendment questions. Civil Beat.

A pared-down RIMPAC ends with missile muscle flexing. A trio of Harpoon antiship missiles slammed low into the hull of the former USS Durham in quick succession Sunday in a “sink exercise” that despite coronavirus impacts, wrapped up RIMPAC off Hawaii with a big bang. Star-Advertiser.

3 firework shells to illuminate evening sky above Pearl Harbor Tuesday night. At 7:45 p.m., three white chrysanthemum shells will be fired and illuminate the night sky. It’s taking place as a part of the commemoration ceremonies to mark the end of WWII. The shells were a gift from Honolulu’s Sister City of Nagaoka, Japan. Hawaii News Now.

Oahu

Counting city’s 1,776 botched surge COVID-19 tests against regulations, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says. The city asked the federal government for an exception, but some 1,776 people will have to retake the test due to a mislabeling error. Star-Advertiser.

Those impacted by botched surge tests will receive email. The city’s free COVID testing program suffered an embarrassing episode on Aug. 26, impacting about 1,000 tests taken at the Kaneohe District Park and Leeward Community College. KHON2.

Oahu Extends Free COVID-19 Testing After Program Gets Off To ‘Rocky’ Start. Officials now hope to test as many as 90,000 people in the next two weeks. Civil Beat.

Despite a rocky start, city’s surge testing program goal expands to 90,000 tests. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced that the federal government has agreed to expand testing from 60,000 people to 90,000. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu mayor confirms more than 1,700 surge tests were mislabeled. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell confirmed on Monday more than 1,700 COVID-19 surge tests have been mislabeled. KITV4.

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H-3 Freeway now closed in both directions for surge COVID-19 testing. Despite pending federal approval, the DOT says its moving ahead calling it an emergency situation. KHON2.

Planned COVID-19 surge testing will close H-3 freeway. The state plans to shut down the H-3 freeway in both directions to conduct free COVID-19 drive-thru surge testing, part of a two-week federally funded program aimed at testing up to 60,000 people. Star-Advertiser.

State to use both directions of H-3 Freeway for COVID-19 surge testing. State and city authorities will close H-3 Freeway this week to help facilitate surge COVID-19 testing efforts on Oahu. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Settles Malicious Prosecution Case Involving Kaneshiro, Kealoha. The case involves the botched prosecution of several people suspected of running illegal game rooms. Civil Beat.

Agency says women harassed, threatened with eviction. The Hawai‘i State Department of Human Services Commission on the Status of Women is calling upon the state and City and County of Honolulu to launch a public information campaign aimed at preventing evictions, which are in violation of Gov. David Ige’s continuing COVID-19 emergency order. Star-Advertiser.

There's claims of pregnant women and immigrants as targets of eviction. Under the Governor's 12th emergency proclamation, the eviction moratorium is extended at least through the end of September. KITV4.

Hawaii Island

Kim: Despite rise in cases, no lockdown needed. The state Department of Health reported 24 new coronavirus cases on the island Monday, bringing the county total to 364, but Kim said shutting down nonessential businesses — as the county did during the early days of the pandemic — would do more harm than good. Tribune-Herald.

Third resident of state veterans home in Hilo dies from COVID-19. A third resident of Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home has died from COVID-19, marking the Big Island’s third virus-related fatality. Tribune-Herald.

1 Man, 2 Women Arrested After Refusing to Wear Face Mask in Public. A man and two women were arrested in separate incidents over the weekend in North Kohala for refusing to wear a face-covering in public. Big Island Now.

County seeks to refinance $357M in bonds: Council set to vote Wednesday on paying off old bonds, floating new ones. Hawaii County plans to take advantage of low interest rates and its excellent bond rating to refinance up to $357 million in bonds. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui District Health Office Discusses Cluster at Lahaina Bar, Urges Continued Vigilance. Health officials on Maui have identified a cluster involving the convergence of people at a restaurant and bar in West Maui on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020. It is unclear where the source of the infection came from, but health officials are asking anyone who was at The Dirty Monkey on Aug. 22, to self quarantine for 14 days through Sept. 5, 2020. Maui Now.

Covid-19 Maui County Schedule Changes. The Maui News has compiled a list of countywide cancellations, closures and postponements due to coronavirus. Maui News.

8 recruits join the Maui police force. Maui Police Department 90th Recruit Class members, whose training was delayed while they helped with other duties during the COVID-19 pandemic, were honored in a graduation ceremony Friday. Maui News.

Kauai

Morikawa calls for Polihale reopening. Following the sending of inquiry emails, and a letter to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, Rep. Dee Morikawa is hopeful that Polihale Beach Park will reopen to the public following the Labor Day weekend. Garden Island.

Fixing the water system in Moloa‘a Hui Lands. The Moloa‘a Irrigation Cooperative received a Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act Grant from the county of $52,415 for water system improvements that will reduce the cost of water and leaks in the system. Garden Island.

Lanai

Lanai dealt huge economic blow with Four Seasons furloughs. A big hit to Hawaii’s only island yet to record a case of COVID-19 was felt Monday, as 752 workers were furloughed by Four Seasons Resorts on Lanai. KHON2.

Honolulu vial mislabeling sends 1,000 back for second COVID-19 test, $300 weekly unemployment bonus begins, health inspector fined for ethics violation, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

COVID-19 lab testing

About 1,000 Oahu residents told to retake COVID-19 surge test because of mislabeling. Just five days into a federally funded COVID-19 surge testing program on Oahu, about 1,000 people from the Kaneohe testing site have been told they have to retake the test due to a mislabeling error. Star-Advertiser.

Due To Mislabeling, About 1,000 Oahu Residents Told To Re-Test For COVID-19. The tests were part of the two-week federally funded testing surge. Civil Beat.

Due to mislabeling, about 1,000 Oahu residents told to re-test for COVID-19. In the latest coronavirus blunder, officials say about 1,000 people will need to get re-tested because vials weren’t labeled. Hawaii News Now.

About 1,000 surge tests labeled incorrectly, impacted individuals urged to retest. Some  of the tests from the Kaneohe site on Wednesday were not labeled correctly and those who are impacted are being urged to retest. KHON2.

1,000 people need to redo COVID-19 test due to labeling error. Another 500 vials were also incorrectly labeled, but staff managed to match the correct patient information to the vials. KITV4.

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A Frank Conversation With U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz About Hawaii’s ‘Terrible’ Virus Response Effort. Hawaii’s senior senator is extremely troubled by the Ige and Caldwell administrations’ failure to deal effectively with the coronavirus problem in Hawaii. Civil Beat.

Contact tracing for the public: Voluntary contact tracing app would allow personal notification. Would a voluntary, free app that lets people know they were within 10-12 feet of someone who later tests positive for coronavirus help stem the rising tide of infections? Could crowd-sourcing — literally putting a tool into the hands of the public — be the solution that government alone can’t seem to reach? West Hawaii Today.

Travelers flying into Hawaii will be required to complete Safe Travels application. The Safe Travels application, starting Tuesday, will become the newest mandatory requirement for travelers flying into Hawaii. Star-Advertiser.

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Feds fund unemployment bonus program. The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Sunday it has approved a $193,933,095 grant to Hawai‘i to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 with an additional $300 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. Garden Island.

More federal funding is heading to islands to help fulfill unemployment claims. Senator Brian Schatz announces Saturday that the state is getting nearly $200 million in funding from the Lost Wages Assistance Program, which is administered through FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund. Hawaii News Now.

FEMA Approves Lost Wages Grant for Hawai‘i to Support $300 Per Week Unemployment Benefit. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Hawaiʻi to provide $300 per week, on top of their regular unemployment benefit, to those unemployed due to COVID-19. Maui Now.

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County Budgets Stable For Now, But Face Uncertain Future. Local governments in Hawaii have not yet faced the acute budget woes being felt at the state level. That may change if local businesses a forced to close. Hawaii Public Radio.

Auditor: DOE Should Be Releasing More Info About COVID-19 In Schools. The State Auditor also criticized Department of Education officials for not cooperating with its investigation. Civil Beat.

DOE reports 20 new COVID-19 cases. This week, 20 people associated with the state Department of Education has tested positive for COVID-19. The DOE's weekly web update says that includes nine employees, five students, four service providers and two parents contracted the virus. KITV4.

Hawaii’s hospitals are in urgent need of nurses to tackle a surge in COVID-19 cases. With an influx in hospitalizations in Hawaii due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, health care officials have put out an urgent call for more nurses to assist. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Health Inspector Fined $25,000 For Ethics Violation. A state worker admitted to mixing government work with his second job, the Hawaii State Ethics Commission said. Civil Beat.

DOH nurse consultant hit with $25,000 fine for ethics violation. The Hawaii State Ethics Commission fined Roel Salanga $25,000 dollars after they say he used his position for personal gain. Hawaii News Now.

Guess Who In Hawaii Is Donating To Trump And Biden? More than 600 Hawaii residents have contributed cash to the campaigns of the president and his opponent. Civil Beat.

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Bill opens up Hawai‘i to hemp industry. The signing of House Bill 1819 by Gov. David Ige legalizes the growth, processing and sale of industrial hemp in the state, and for Nalu Botanicals Lab, the first and only toll processing facility in the state, this bill opens up new opportunities and business by the ten-fold. Garden Island.

Pandemic renews calls for marijuana legalization in Hawaii. This week, Hawaii took a step forward in legalizing industrial hemp, something the agricultural committee says would be a big boost to the state's economy. KITV4.

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Will Hawaii’s $1.9 Billion Missile Radar System Get Built? Critics argue the costly system may already be obsolete and will needlessly threaten the environment and cultural sites. Civil Beat.

Wespac Reconsiders Rule That Keeps Longliners From Fishing Near Hawaii’s Shores. The zone was created nearly 30 years ago to ease conflicts with smaller boats that fish closer to shore. Civil Beat.

Hawaiian Electric takes on threat of albizia trees. In 2019, Hawaiian Electric spent about $18.6 million on trimming or removing more than 360,000 trees across its five-island territory. Star-Advertiser.

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VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 30: 200 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. There are now more than 5,700 active cases identified in the islands. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports another coronavirus death on Oahu and 200 new cases statewide. Health officials today reported 174 new cases today on Oahu, 22 on Hawaii island, and four in Maui County. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Honolulu mayoral candidates log small campaign funding deficits. he top two vote getters in the race reported small deficits in the days leading up to the primary. Hawaii News Now.

Protesters gather in opposition of mayor’s latest stay-at-home order. In an act of defiance against the mayor’s latest stay-at-home order, a large group of people exercised their freedom of speech Saturday in a protest near the grounds of Honolulu Hale. Hawaii News Now.

Scientists Find Larger Fish, Clearer Water During Hanauma Bay Closure. Scientists anticipate the bay’s vacation from vacationers will bring a much-needed boost to its overall health. Civil Beat.

‘It’s as if a bomb went off:’ Waipahu’s illegal dumping problem worsens. Illegal dumping has been a problem in Waipahu for years. But local businesses and environmental activists say the problem has gotten worse during the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Outrage, not a meadow, grows in Royal Kunia subdivision. The condition and use of 132 acres at Royal Kunia once advertised as the spot for a planned golf course has been perturbing much of the roughly 2,000-home community over the past three years, including about 300 residents whose homes border the old golf course site. Star-Advertiser.

Reporter, weekend anchor Lisa Kubota bids aloha to Hawaii News Now. After 20 years in the broadcast journalism industry, Hawaii News Now’s Lisa Kubota is saying aloha to the world of television news. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island records its first 2 coronavirus deaths amid outbreak at Hilo veterans home. Hawaii island has had its first two coronavirus-related deaths following an outbreak at the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Star-Advertiser.

Two coronavirus-related deaths reported at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. Hawaii Island marked its first coronavirus-related deaths Sunday as the number of positive COVID-19 cases on the island climbed to 340. West Hawaii Today.

Two Deaths, 37 COVID-19 Cases Connected To Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home Outbreak. Six are hospitalized at Hilo Medical Center, and 19 are being cared for at the veterans home’s COVID designated area. Big Island Video News.

HMC Reports Two Coronavirus-Related Deaths. Hilo Medical Center reported two coronavirus-related deaths on Sunday afternoon, the first of which was also reported by Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Sunday morning. Big Island Now.

Hawaii Island reports two COVID deaths as case numbers surpass Maui County. On Sunday, Hawaii County had more COVID-19 cases than Maui County. As of Sunday, there are 166 active cases on Hawaii Island. KHON2.

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Five arrested following gathering at Kahaluu. Five people were arrested for violating Gov. David Ige’s emergency proclamation after Hawaii Police Department officers were dispatched to a report of a more than 20 people gathering at Kahaluu Beach Park. West Hawaii Today.

Police Arrest 5 at Kahalu‘u Beach Park For Violation of COVID-19 Protocol. Hawai‘i County Police on Saturday arrested five individuals for violating COVID-19 protocols as part of a gathering at Kahalu‘u Beach Park in West Hawai‘i. Big Island Now.

5 arrested, charged on the Big Island for COVID violations. Not everyone complied and police arrested five people: 53-year-old Gene Tamashiro of Hilo, 48-year-old Stefanie Nolff of Keaau, 65-year-old Diane Ficher of Kailua-Kona, 60-year-old Melody Harris of Kailua-Kona and 53-year-old Michaele Ann Medearis of Holualoa. KHON2.

Maui

More than 5,000 limited quarantine requests. County grants ‘vast majority’ of requests so people can continue to work As of Friday, Maui County officials had received well over 5,000 requests from travelers for a limited quarantine when arriving in the county following interisland travel. Maui News.

Reality series ‘Temptation Island’ to begin filming again on Maui. Maui filming of the reality series “Temptation Island” is back on again after obtaining authorization from Mayor Michael Victorino following a review of the production company’s health security plan and testing protocols. Star-Advertiser.

Mayor green lights reality TV show. ‘Temptation Island’ filming at Andaz allowed beginning Sept. 8. Maui News.

Kauai

Money helps fund Makauwahi Cave Reserve expansion efforts. For the Makauwahi Cave Reserve, nestled on the south coast of Kaua‘i in the Mahaulepu Valley close to Mahaulepu Beach, change has always been constant, even in the pre-COVID era. Garden Island.

Kauai Businesses Are ‘Hanging On By A Thread’ Without Tourists. The alarming number of businesses facing closure in the next six months should be a warning sign to state leaders, says the head of the Kauai Chamber of Commerce. Civil Beat.

Native seabird chicks eaten by single cat. Over the course of three days in a remote area of the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve, one cat (photographed on multiple trail cameras) killed at least nine endangered Hawaiian Petrel (‘u‘au) chicks. Garden Island.

Hawaii battles COVID-19 surge, government fights data release, entire H-3 freeway to become testing site, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii coronavirus cases on Aug 27, 2020, state Department of Health

U.S. Surgeon General warns spike will continue as COVID-19 cases climb above 300. Coronavirus infections in Hawaii reached their second-highest daily level Thursday as Oahu began complying with a two-week stay-at home order limiting business and activities on the island. Star-Advertiser.

Number of COVID-19 cases likely to spike again after testing surge, officials warn. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell likened Hawaii’s battle against coronavirus to ’war’ on Thursday, hours after the state Department of Health reported four new COVID-19 deaths statewide ― the most in a single day since the start of the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

Lt. Gov. Green expects to see 'big surge' at Hawaii hospitals in next two weeks. Green compared the streak to hot spots like New York and Texas and predicted that some hospitals will see a "big surge" in the next two to three weeks. KITV4.

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State Asks Lawyers, Law Students To Help With Unemployment Claims Backlog — Pro Bono. Hawaii labor officials have been struggling to resolve thousands of unemployment claims with disputes over job separation. Civil Beat.

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Distance learning extended for Hawaii public schools, encouraged for private schools. Teachers and families have more clarity today after public schools extended distance learning through Oct. 2 and private schools got more specific guidance on operating during the shutdown. Star-Advertiser.

DOE extends distance learning through 1st quarter. The state Department of Education said Thursday that public schools will be limited to distance learning through the first quarter of the school year, but the union representing the state’s teachers claims that is still not enough to keep educators and students safe. Tribune-Herald.

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New Local Apps Will Help with Contact Tracing. Contact tracing helps fight the spread of COVID-19, but it is time consuming work that has overwhelmed the state Health Department. Two local apps designed to help contact tracers do their job faster and more effectively are in the works to combat this issue. Hawaii Business magazine.

HGEA leader blasting state response to coronavirus. The leader of the Hawaii Government Employees Association is blasting the state Department of Public Safety after a cluster of COVID-19 cases involving both employees and inmates at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Tourism Authority offers top post to John De Fries. Hawaii Tourism Authority today offered its top job to John De Fries, who upon acceptance would become the organization’s first Native Hawaiian chief. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii sees July visitor arrivals plummet 98% from a year ago. Only 22,562 visitors flew to Hawaii in July, which last year was Hawaii’s best tourism month. Star-Advertiser.

Women Were Already Struggling At Work. The Pandemic Is Making It Worse. Women are filing for unemployment and losing their businesses at higher rates than men. Civil Beat.

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Defense Secretary Visits Hawaii For RIMPAC. Mark Esper’s visit to the state was part of a broader tour of the Pacific that includes Guam and Palau in a signal to China. Civil Beat.

Vintage warbirds move to Wheeler Army Airfield for the 75th end-of-WWII aerial parades. Some of the airpower stars of World War II landed at Wheeler Army Airfield on Thursday, coming in from the Waianae Range side to touch down at the historic airport in preparation for three aerial parades in honor of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Star-Advertiser.

Historic war planes to fly over Oahu in honor of WWII 75th anniversary. Historic war planes will fly over Oahu this weekend to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. KHON2.

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The Latest: 4 Deaths, 306 New Cases; DOE Extends Learn From Home; Hundreds Line Up For Tests. A day after saying COVID-19 infections appear to be stabilizing, the Hawaii Department of Health today reported one of the state's worse daily counts in the pandemic: 4 deaths and 306 new cases. Hawaii Public Radio.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For August 27: 306 New Cases, Four New Deaths. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Aug. 27: 306 New COVID-19 Cases In Hawaii And 4 Deaths. Civil Beat.

4 new COVID-19 deaths in Honolulu as Hawaii sees 306 new cases on 1st day of Oahu lockdown. Department of Health officials reported four new COVID-19 deaths and 306 new coronavirus cases, bringing the statewide totals since the beginning of the pandemic in February to 7,566 cases and 55 fatalities. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Government workers who worked from home before now deemed essential Oahu government workers who were able to work from home during the first lockdown aren’t allowed to this time around. KHON2.

DOH Won’t Give Honolulu The Data It Needs To Detect Coronavirus In Our Sewage. Researchers need access to coronavirus test results by zip code in order to corroborate what they are finding in the island’s wastewater system. Civil Beat.

Payments From Honolulu’s $25 Million Hardship Fund Are Mired In Red Tape. Less than 10% of the money has been handed out in the past three months due to onerous application requirements and concerns about fraud. Civil Beat.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell announces additonal $25 million for COVID-19 small business relief. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced today that the City and County of Honolulu will provide an additional $25 million for the city’s small business grant program started in response to the COVID-19 crisis. Star-Advertiser.

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State to use entire H-3 Freeway as COVID-19 testing site next week. State and city authorities are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to help facilitate surge COVID-19 testing efforts on Oahu, the Department of Transportation announced Thursday. Hawaii News Now.

H-3 freeway eyed as site for COVID-19 surge testing next week. The H-3 freeway could be fully closed between Halawa Interchange and the Halekou Interchange to accommodate a COVID-19 surge testing location on Oahu, the state Department of Transportation reported today. Star-Advertiser.

State will shut down H-3 for two days; freeway will serve as COVID testing site. The Department of Transportation will shut down the H-3 freeway on September 1 and on September 3. KHON2.

H-3 freeway to close for COVID-19 surge testing next week. City and state officials are planning a full closure of the H-3 Freeway next week to continue COVID-19 surge testing on Oahu. KITV4.

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Candidates for Honolulu mayor land support of major unions ahead of election. Honolulu businessman Keith Amemiya and former television executive Rick Blangiardi each announced endorsements involving major Hawaii labor groups this week as the two prepare to face off in November’s general election. Hawaii News Now.

Details of rail P3 plan remain concealed. Details of negotiations between city officials and potential third-party entities that would help construct and operate the struggling $9.2 billion rail project remain shrouded in mystery, even to members of the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, who sought to get some answers Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Judge intervenes in prison housing for alleged crime boss Mike Miske. A Honolulu businessman accused of leading a violent organized crime ring was segregated from other inmates at a detention center beyond the 14-days of quarantine to protect against the spread of COVID-19, until a U.S. judge intervened. Associated Press.

Bill would allow for more group living facilities. A bill allowing certain group living facilities to be exempted from needing to be 1,000 feet from each other was approved tentatively by the City Council Zoning, Planning and Housing Committee on Thursday. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii investor buys second Waikiki apartment property. The Hawaii investor who recently closed on the purchase of the fee-simple ground lease beneath the leasehold Laniakea Apartments in Waikiki also bought the High Tide Apartments, a small multifamily building next door, last month for $3 million. Pacific Business News.

Hawaii Island

Hilo a virus hot spot. State officials confirmed that as of Wednesday there were 94 active coronavirus cases in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized on Hawaii Island could soon test capacity. Since the pandemic began in March, the Big Island has reported a total of 253 cases. This week, though, the island has reported consecutive days of double-digit new cases. Hawaii News Now.

14 COVID-19 Patients Being Treated at HMC. The Hilo Medical Center reports a slight uptick of one COVID-19 patient now hospitalized in its facility bringing the total to 14. Big Island Now.

Planning director sends employees home: Close contacts of two employees test positive for COVID-19. The county Planning Department office in Hilo was closed to the public and operating Thursday with just two officials at the oars after close contacts of two employees tested positive for coronavirus. West Hawaii Today.

Map Tracks All The Places County “Bug Busters” Have Cleaned. The County provided interactive map that tracks the Bug Busters spraying locations. The map marks “essential businesses”, water spigots, bus shelters, and disinfection areas. Big Island Video News.

As jury service questionnaires are appearing in Big Island mailboxes amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert D.S. Kim offered assurance the Judiciary is doing everything possible to keep jurors safe. West Hawaii Today.

‘It’s the best we can do’: Courthouse manages influx of District Court cases amid pandemic. A line of people stretched from the entrance of Keahuolu Courthouse to the parking lot as 129 people waited to be checked in for Thursday morning’s Kona District Court calendar. West Hawaii Today.

Fixing Century-Old Breakwater Could Bring Marine Life Back To Hilo Bay. Hawaii County officials want the Army Corps of Engineers to do a new study that could pave the way for improved water quality. Civil Beat.

Maui

Contact tracing on Maui meeting need; more testing likely on horizon. Contact tracers in Maui County are “not overwhelmed” and increased testing may be on the horizon in the battle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, Maui County Health Department officials said Wednesday. Maui News.

Prosecutors oppose release of about half on inmate list. Supreme Court order calls for freeing of inmates due to COVID-19. The Maui County prosecutor’s office is opposing the release of 53 inmates or about half the number eligible for release under a state Supreme Court order issued this week to address jail overcrowding amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui News.

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Pretrial detainee scales fence, escapes from Maui Community Correctional Center. A pretrial detainee from Maui Community Correctional Center escaped from the facility this evening, the state Department of Public Safety reported. Star-Advertiser.

Pre-trial detainee held on theft, drug charges escapes from MCCC. A pre-trial detainee being held on a slew of theft and drug charges escaped from the Maui Community Correctional Center on Thursday night, according to the state Department of Public Safety. Hawaii News Now.

Police searching for prisoner who escaped Maui Community Correction Center Thursday night. Police are asking the public’s help regarding the whereabouts of an escaped male prisoner from Maui Community Correction Center on Aug. 27. KHON2.

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Employee of Maui Police Department Tests Positive for COVID-19. An employee at the Maui Police Department has tested positive for COVID-19, according to a department press release. Maui Now.

Probation officer seeks telework due to COVID-19 risk. A senior probation officer, who was exposed to COVID-19 at work, is hoping the state Judiciary reexamines options for officers to work from home and to limit the number of workers in the Kahului office. Maui News.

Kauai

Keeping COVID spread at bay on Kaua‘i. While there have not been any new cases reported on Kaua‘i in about a week, yesterday, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced that the most recent case reported on the island had no known travel connection, and has been categorized community spread. Garden Island.

PUC says KIUC can’t cut off electricity for non-payment. In light of continued economic hardship for some members caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the state Public Utilities Commission has ordered the continued suspension of service disconnections for Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative members. Garden Island.