Coronavirus infections trending downward in Hawaii, Oahu opens hotels to COVID-19 quarantiners, Health Department whistleblower speaks out, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Coronavirus epi curve as of Sept 10, 2020 Hawaii Department of Health

DOH Reports Overall Decline in COVID-19 Cases Statewide. Hawai‘i is beginning to regain control of the spread of COVID-19 after nearly six weeks of elevated case numbers throughout the state. Big Island Now.

DOH: COVID-19 case numbers appear to be declining. After weeks of increased COVID-19 cases, the state Department of Health said Thursday that Hawaii is beginning to turn the corner and regain control of the spread of the disease on all islands. Tribune-Herald.


Relief for nurses through federal support and lower COVID-19 cases. The Hawaii State Department of Health said COVID-19 cases are beginning to decline after a six-week surge in new cases, and 169 new cases were reported on Thursday and the decline in numbers is also being reflected at hospitals. KHON2.

Hawaii’s Health Department Received Millions In COVID-19 Grants. Where Is It Going? Competition for equipment and bureaucratic hurdles have slowed down spending meant to boost the state’s pandemic response. Civil Beat.

=====

Whistleblower says Hawaii Department of Health’s ‘toxic’ culture of fear impeded investigators’ work. State Department of Health whistleblower Jennifer Smith, the epidemiologist who was suspended with pay Friday after speaking out about the understaffing of COVID-19 contact tracers, says the DOH fostered a “toxic” culture of fear that impeded the work of investigators trying to stop the spread of disease. Star-Advertiser.

Health Dept Whistleblower Speaks Out About ‘Toxic Management Culture’. Jennifer Smith was placed on paid leave weeks after her revelations about the Department of Health led to the director and the state epidemiologist being replaced. Civil Beat.

'I’m not a threat’: DOH whistleblower responds to alleged smear campaign against her. The Health Department whistleblower who exposed the state’s woefully inadequate COVID-19 contact tracing efforts vigorously denied allegations she made violent threats against her colleagues and says she has endured “character attacks” after speaking out. Hawaii News Now.

State Health Department whistleblower speaks out. In her first on-camera interview since being suspended with pay Health Department whistleblower Dr. Jennifer Smith claims management facilitated a culture of bullying, shame, and blame within the department. KITV4.

=====

Money for $300 unemployment boost to run out after 6 weeks. The temporary $300-a-week unemployment insurance boost implemented by President Donald Trump is about to end, with no extension in sight. Associated Press.

Thousands of Local Jobs Available, Chamber Says. The overall Hawai‘i economy may be stalled, but some organizations are hiring – and not just in health care and home deliveries. Hawaii Business magazine.

$3 Billion in Unemployment Benefits Issued Since March 1. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations today announced updated unemployment insurance claims information, including paying $3,081,193,375 and 3,155,245 weeks claimed since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic on March 1. Big Island Now.

Hawaii has nation’s highest ‘insured unemployment rate’. Unlike the more frequently reported seasonally adjusted unemployment rate, the insured unemployment rate represents the number of people receiving unemployment insurance as a percentage of the labor force. Star-Advertiser.

47 Hawaii restaurants have permanently closed since pandemic began. The effect of the coronavirus pandemic on Hawaii’s restaurant industry hits home most strongly when reading through the names of establishments that have closed. Star-Advertiser.


Those eligible for additional jobless benefits will be allowed to enroll starting Saturday. The state will launch a new online feature Saturday to allow those eligible for $300 in additional weekly jobless benefits to enroll. Hawaii News Now.

$10M Federal COVID-19 Grant Focuses On Teacher Training. An initial report lays out how Hawaii education leaders plan to use the CARES Act money. Civil Beat.

=====

Gov. David Ige signs bill to protect Hawaii musicians. With live musical performances effectively silenced by the pandemic, the state of Hawaii gave a boost to local musicians Thursday with the signing of a bill designed to protect them from having someone else fraudulently use their identity to promote a performance. Star-Advertiser.

Governor signs measure aimed at preserving ‘integrity’ of musicians' original works. The governor signed a measure into law Thursday that protects musicians against cover bands and imposters making money off their name. Hawaii News Now.

=====

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 10: 169 New Cases And 3 Deaths In Hawaii. The average number of daily cases has dropped from a peak of 250 in August to 156 last week. Civil Beat.

Hawaii sees 3 coronavirus-related deaths on Oahu and 169 new cases statewide. Star-Advertiser.

The Hawai‘i Department of Health reported 169 new cases of coronavirus on Thursday, along with three COVID-related deaths. The statewide total of cases is now 10,292. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Federal Medical Team Deployed to Honolulu to Help with COVID-19 Surge Support. A federal medical team from the US Department of Health and Human Services began providing temporary medical surge support Thursday at the Queen’s Medical Center at Hale Pulama Mau and the Kuakini Medical Center in Honolulu. Maui Now.

HPD Is Getting Millions To Enforce The Shutdown While Aid For Struggling Residents Lags. Honolulu City Councilman Tommy Waters says the city’s priorities are backwards, pointing to money for police overtime and training, new ATVs and “paddy wagons,” among other items. Civil Beat.

Frustration builds for businesses that complied with CDC guidelines but still forced to close . Calls to reopen more businesses on Oahu continue. Business owners said they are frustrated because they have done everything required by the CDC but are forced to remain closed. KHON2.

City Council adopts resolution offering grants to commercial property owners. Honolulu City Council members have approved a resolution aiming to provide rent relief to businesses through a grant program for landlords. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Josh Green asks for loosening of latest Oahu stay-at-home order. Lt. Gov. Josh Green is asking city and state officials to change Oahu’s latest stay-at-home order to allow residents living in the same household to engage in outdoor activities together. Star-Advertiser.

How Oahu’s COVID-19 Park And Beach Restrictions Are Hurting Families. Parents say they are struggling to keep their children — and themselves — sane and healthy without regular access to outdoor spaces. Civil Beat.

Local COVID-19 survivor says she didn't take restrictions seriously. Sarah Bolles says she was going to social gatherings, putting herself at risk, and eventually ended up with a fever of over 104 degrees in the hospital. KITV4.

=====

Nearly 300 hotel rooms islandwide available for those who can’t quarantine at home. The Hawaii Department of Health is working with the city to isolate COVID-19 patients at a number of hotels. Hawaii News Now.

These Hotels Are Stepping Up To Help Hawaii’s Virus Control Effort. Some Hawaii hotels have repurposed rooms for people who need to be isolated or quarantined while they recover from COVID-19 or wait for a test result. Civil Beat.

Pearl Hotel Waikiki among four lodges assisting those in need of COVID-19 isolation. The Department of Health says it now has the capacity to offer enough bed space on Oahu to accommodate anyone who has nowhere else to quarantine or isolate due to COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Four hotels on Oahu are stepping up to help people with COVID-19. If you tested positive for COVID-19 or are waiting for test results but can't safely quarantine at home, you may qualify to stay at an isolation location. KITV4.

=====

Dole School in Kalihi mourns death of staff member in home quarantine. A Dole Middle School employee who worked in the school’s office died Wednesday after being quarantined at home because of COVID-19 cases among staff members. Star-Advertiser.

A staff member at Dole Middle School has died after quarantining at home for COVID-19 following an outbreak at the school, according to the Hawaii State Teachers Association. KITV4.

=====

Rail Board Confronts Project’s Deepening Financial, Contract Concerns. HART members raised more questions about whether a public-private partnership is still in play and what a “plan B” might look like. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Nearly All Residents at Hilo Veterans Home Test Positive for COVID-19. Nearly all the residents at the veterans home in Hilo have tested positive for COVID-19.  Additionally, no deaths were reported on the Big Island Thursday. Big Island Now.

Review of veterans home COVID outbreak underway. A review is still underway into the Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home COVID-19 outbreak response. Tribune-Herald.

A representative from the Department of Veterans Affairs is expected on site at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home. According to the Department of Health it's a two-day unannounced review that started on Friday on whether the facility is following state regulations. KITV4.

Hawai‘i Health Department Addresses Discrepancy in Hilo COVID-19 Deaths. The state Department of Health reports that it is aware of six additional deaths associated with COVID-19 at the Yukio Okutsu Veterans Home in Hilo; however, it is awaiting medical records from the facility as part of its official confirmation and documentation process. Maui Now.

Puna Geothermal Officials Take Questions Online. During a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, Sierra Club member Cory Harden had a lot of questions for PGV reps Mike Kaleikini and plant manager Jordan Hara. Big Island Video News.

Maui

Budget committee seeks public input. The Maui County Council’s Economic Development and Budget Committee will be discussing the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, rules, the CARES Act and other related issues. Maui News.

Kula land to become recreation site. Public hiking trails, picnic spots and forest excursions are in the works for more than 3,000 acres of Upcountry forestland recently acquired by the state. Maui News.

Kauai

First coffee berry borer beetle detected on Kauai. The first coffee berry borer, a beetle that feeds on coffee berries and reduces both the yield of quality of coffee, has been found on Kauai, the state Department of Agriculture reported today. Star-Advertiser.

HDOA: Coffee berry borer confirmed on Kaua‘i. Yesterday, the state’s Department of Agriculture confirmed coffee berry borer, a devastating pest of coffee plants, has been detected on Kaua‘i, the first detection on the island. Garden Island.

Keahua bridge repairs with temporary blocked access. Heavy rains in March caused severe damage to Keahua Bridge at the entrance of the Lihu‘e-Koloa Forest Reserve. Due to structural damage, the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW) blocked vehicular traffic until repairs are completed. Garden Island.

State pushes for Oct. 1 trans-Pacific travel amid gloomy economic forecast, Honolulu City Council chairman resigns, Kauai bans polystyrene, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii airport screening from Department of Transportation video

State's pre-travel testing program for transpacific travel scheduled to start October 1. Governor David Ige spoke to the four county mayors on Wednesday about using interisland travel as a pilot for the state's pre-travel testing program. KITV4.

Green says state should be ready to reopen to travelers on Oct. 1. Lt. Gov. Josh Green said Wednesday that he does not see any reason the state could not reopen to trans-Pacific travelers on Oct. 1. Tribune-Herald.

=====

State Tax Collections Forecast To Drop $200 Million Next Year. The Council on Revenues predicts Hawaii tourism will be doing a very modest business by November, but will recover slowly. Civil Beat.

Forecast calls for Hawaii tax revenue to drop 11%. Hawaii tax revenue — severely depleted because of the coronavirus pandemic — will likely decline 11% this fiscal year if tourists begin to return to the islands by mid-November, an advisory panel for the governor and lawmakers said Wednesday. Associated Press.

With latest gloomy economic outlook, lawmakers prepare for a long road to recovery. The Hawaii Council on Revenues said tax revenues for the 2021 fiscal year will be down 11% — or about $770 million. The board also revised its outlook for the 2022 fiscal year, saying the economy will grow by 8%. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Hawaii’s Health Department Has Gotten Millions In COVID-19 Grants. Where Is It Going?. Competition for equipment and bureaucratic hurdles have slowed down spending meant to boost the state’s pandemic response. Civil Beat.

New COVID-19 cases are declining, but hospitals continue to grapple with nursing shortage. Despite a recent decline in the number of new coronavirus cases, hospitals continue to struggle to meet current needs because of a shortage of local nurses. Healthcare experts say Hawaii’s hospitals remain at 100% staffed bed capacity. Hawaii News Now.

Why Hawaiʻi's Marshallese Are Taking COVID-19 Matters Into Their Own Hands. Pacific Islanders in Hawaii are being disproportionately hit by the pandemic. The state has struggled to bring that number down, prompting at least one Pacific Islander community to take matters into their own hands. Hawaii Public Radio.

=====

COVID Pau project launches with goal of ‘fulfilling unmet need for public health data’. A group of local businesses and nonprofit organizations are providing Hawaii residents with real-time data to stop the spread of COVID-19 so that the economy reopens sooner and if it must close that only parts of it must shut down. Star-Advertiser.

Initiative aimed at providing tools to stop spread of coronavirus. COVID Pau is an effort of the Hawaii COVID Collaborative — itself a hui of private health care systems, businesses and nonprofit organizations organized by a subcommittee of the House Select Committee on COVID-19. Tribune-Herald.

‘COVID Pau’ initiative aims to improve access to information to stop spread of virus. A new initiative has been launched Wednesday, aiming to increase transparency and improve access to information to ultimately stop the spread of COVID-19 in Hawaii. Hawaii News Now.

State posts antigen data showing dozens of probable COVID cases. Recently the state has made strides to make more of the data on COVID-19 in the islands more accessible. KHON2.

=====

Union shares hotel safety inspection results. Unite Here Local 5, which started conducting hotel inspections in June, had sought state legislation to require hotels to publish and enforce their health and safety procedures prior to reopening to outside tourism. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaii Tourism Authority hires leader John De Fries amid budget cuts, tourism collapse. Tourism industry veteran John De Fries is slated to start Wednesday. Star-Advertiser.

John De Fries Is New Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority President, CEO. The former head of the Hawaiʻi County Department of Research and Development, and president and CEO of Hokulia, now leads the HTA. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 9: 100 New Cases And 3 Deaths In Hawaii. Three fatalities took the state’s COVID-19 death toll to 91. Civil Beat.

Hawaii reports 3 coronavirus-related deaths on Oahu and 100 new cases statewide. State Department of Health officials said the latest three coronavirus-related deaths on Oahu were all men with underlying medical conditions. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu

Ikaika Anderson resigning from Honolulu City Council. Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson, who has represented the windward side of Oahu since 2009, unexpectedly announced his resignation Wednesday, effective following the Sept. 23 council meeting. Star-Advertiser.

Ikaika Anderson Resigns From Honolulu City Council. The council chair cited family reasons for his decision to step down, effective Sept. 23, just a few months before his final term ends. Civil Beat.

City Council Chair Ikaika Anderson resigns, citing family reasons. City Council Chairman Ikaika Anderson surprised observers Wednesday by announcing he will resign from the council effective Sept. 23. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Two dozen mainland nurses to assist front-line workers at Queen’s Medical Center.  The federal government is deploying about two dozen mainland nurses to Oahu this week to help front-line workers with the surge of COVID-19 patients at the Queen’s Medical Center. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Hawaii Lt. Gov. Josh Green asks for loosening of latest Oahu stay-at-home order. Lt. Gov. Josh Green is asking city and state officials to change Oahu’s latest stay-at-home order to allow residents living in the same household to engage in outdoor activities together. Star-Advertiser.

Lt. Gov. Josh Green To Caldwell: Let Families Go To The Beach. The lieutenant governor is voicing the same concerns many families on Oahu have expressed. Civil Beat.

With beaches, parks open for solo activity, some say that could mean more problems. Oahu parks, beaches and hiking trails reopen Thursday, but for individual activities only. Many who are eager to do outdoor activities again say the new rules don’t make sense. Hawaii News Now.

Public safety concerns over Honolulu’s one-person emergency order. Lieutenant Governor Josh Green said members from one household should be able to go to the beach, trails and parks, and that the latest Honolulu emergency order should be amended to allow two people to go to outdoor public spaces. KHON2.

=====

City Council passes a resolution that would give businesses rent relief. The Honolulu City Council is urging the Mayor to set aside $100 million in federal funding to help cover the rents for local businesses. Hawaii News Now.

Resolution that could provide rental assistance for businesses passes Honolulu City Council. Businesses are one step closer to getting aid with rental payments. KHON2.

=====

Kokua Council to host online debate between Honolulu mayoral candidates Keith Amemiya, Rick Blangiardi. The Kokua Council will livestream a debate on Monday between Honolulu mayoral candidates Keith Amemiya and Rick Blangiardi. Star-Advertiser.

Commission: Amemiya’s Midweek Ad Didn’t Break The Law. The Hawaii Campaign Spending Commission also levied over $4,400 worth of fines against other candidates. Civil Beat.

Keith Amemiya seeks action on alleged ‘felonies’ by super PAC. Mayoral candidate Keith Amemiya hopes the state Campaign Spending Commission resolves a complaint his campaign filed about a political action committee before ballots go out next month and another round of anti-Amemiya allegations can be made. Star-Advertiser.

=====

Honolulu City Council approves resolution to name Manana park after late Sen. Breene Harimoto. onolulu City Council today approved a resolution that would rename Manana Community Park the Breene Harimoto Manana Community Park. Star-Advertiser.


Manana Park to be renamed in honor of a beloved state senator. Honolulu’s City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to rename the Manana Community Park in Aiea. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Shakedown search for contraband led to riot at Hawaii Community Correctional Center. The riot at Hawaii Community Correctional Center on Tuesday afternoon occurred after a shakedown search for contraband was conducted in a housing unit, the Department of Public Safety announced today. Star-Advertiser.

Jail Disturbance Was Triggered By Search For Contraband. Inmates at Hawaii Community Correctional Center set fire to mattresses, plastic chairs and books. Civil Beat.

DPS: HCCC inmate disturbance in response to contraband sweep. The Department of Public Safety said Wednesday that the preliminary results of its investigation into a Tuesday disturbance in a housing unit at Hawaii Community Correctional Center in Hilo indicate inmates were rebelling against a shakedown search for contraband. Tribune-Herald.

HCCC Riot Was Triggered By Shakedown For Contraband, State Says. There is no indication that overcrowding contributed to the cause, the Hawaiʻi Department of Public Safety claims. Big Island Video News.

PSD reveals more details about fire that broke out at HCCC. The State Public Safety Department said on Wednesday that the riot and fire that broke out at the Hawaii Community Correctional Center on the Big Island on Tuesday happened during a shakedown search for contraband. KITV4.

=====

PUC won’t exempt Honua Ola from competitive bidding. The president of Honua Ola Bioenergy said Wednesday that he was “not feeling so good” after the state Public Utilities Commission denied his company’s motion to reconsider a waiver of the competitive bidding process for the company’s nearly completed 21.5-megawatt biomass power plant. Tribune-Herald.

State inspection taking place at Hilo veterans home with COVID cluster. On the Big Island, a 10th death has been reported at a Veterans Home in Hilo. While federal aid has not come, we learned the State is stepping in. KHON2.

Whose jurisdiction? County Ethics Board continues Maunakea debate. Who should enforce the law when protesters block the access road to Maunakea and continue to have unpermitted structures there remained in question Wednesday as the county Board of Ethics struggled with a board resolution and a citizen petition that’s been pending since January. West Hawaii Today.

County Seeks Partner To Develop Multi-Family Rentals In Waikoloa. The County is seeking a partner to develop an independent workforce housing rental project on County-owned land in the Kamakoa Nui Workforce Housing subdivision in Waikoloa. Big Island Video News.

County Seeks Partner to Build Multi-Family Increment at Kamakoa Nui. The County of Hawai‘i is seeking proposals from qualified firms or partnerships to enter into a real estate development agreement for the design, financing, construction, and management of an independent workforce housing rental project on county-owned land in the Kamakoa Nui Workforce Housing subdivision in Waikoloa. Big Island Now.

Maui

Vacation rental bills up for first reading Friday. Measures would place hold on new permits on Lanai and prevent vacation rentals in some districts. Maui News.

=====

3,433 Acres at Kamehamenui on Maui Acquired for Conservation. A recent land acquisition protects the Kula water aquifer, habitat for endangered species, and community-based forest restoration opportunities. Maui Now.

More than 3,400 acres of a Maui forest to be preserved. Through federal and state funding, the Trust for Public Land purchased the forest for $9.8 million to protect the land and convey it to the community. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Non-Resident User Fees at ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘u Natural Area Reserve Start Oct. 1. Starting Oct. 1, 2020, ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘u Natural Area Reserve will charge non-Hawai‘i residents a user-fee of $5 per vehicle. Maui Now.

Baldwin Beach Park Pavillion is slip sliding away. The annual loss of sand at the beach has been gradually eating away at the amenities year after year, with each year seeming to claw farther inland. Maui News.

Kauai

Styrofoam food container ban effective January 2022. Kaua‘i County, the last county in the state to pass a bill that would prohibit the sale and use of styrofoam foodservice containers, will join the others with it’s own ban in 2022. Garden Island.

Kauai is last Hawaii county to pass ban on foam containers. The Kauai County Council today passed a bill banning the use and sale of polystyrene food and drink containers starting in January 2022. Star-Advertiser.

Kaua'i County Council passes ban on styrofoam food containers. The Kaua'i County Council on Wednesday passed a ban on styrofoam food containers. KITV4.

=====

Kawakami’s Rule 17 clarifies quarantine locations. Yesterday, Mayor Derek Kawakami announced a new Emergency Rule 17 that clarifies quarantine periods for those traveling under critical infrastructure allowances. Garden Island.

Mayor Kawakami announces Emergency Rule 17 confirming critical infrastructure workers must quarantine in hotel or motel. The County of Kaua‘i announced on Wednesday Mayor’s Emergency Rule 17 which clarifies that all persons performing critical infrastructure functions must designate a hotel or motel as a quarantine location. KITV4.

County opens Rise to Work program for residents. Workers displaced by the COVID-19 pandemic can look for opportunities through the Rise to Work program that was established by the County of Kaua‘i’s Kupa‘a Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Health Department whistleblower forced out, Honolulu mayor extends stay-at-home order, Hilo jail inmates riot, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Health Department investigator Jennifer Smith PC:KITV4 video

Whistleblower at Department of Health says she was placed on leave. Whistleblower at the Department of Health and case investigator Jennifer Smith says that she was placed on leave. KITV4.

Hawaii Dept Of Health Whistleblower Forced Out As Shakeup Continues. After revealing flaws in the state’s contact tracing program, Jennifer Smith, a state DOH case investigator, was put on leave on Friday. Civil Beat.

DOH whistleblower placed on leave for firearm allegations. Another shakeup at the Department of Health, as KHON2 has learned Tuesday that the DOH whistleblower who brought to light the state’s contact tracing program was understaffed, is now on leave. KHON2.

=====

Failure To Communicate: How The State Lost The Public's Trust And How It Can Get it Back. The departures of top leaders from the state Department of Health follow disclosures of major shortcomings in the state’s response to COVID-19. These events have diminished public confidence in what officials say. However, trust is crucial in maintaining the public’s health. Hawaii Public Radio.

Kokua Council Wants Court To Order DOH To Hire Contact Tracers. A community organization has petitioned the Hawaii Supreme Court to order the state health department to hire more contact tracers. Civil Beat.

Elizabeth “Libby” Char named interim director of the Hawaii Department of Health. Elizabeth “Libby” Char appointed by Gov. David Ige to serve as interim director of the Hawaii Department of Health, effective Sept.16. Pacific Business News.

=====

Hawaii Gov. David Ige unveils $100M program to help renters affected by pandemic. Hawaii renters who are at risk of eviction due to the coronavirus pandemic may be eligible for financial help under a new $100 million rent relief and housing assistance program announced Tuesday. Star-Advertiser.

State Makes Rental Assistance Available For Hard Hit Residents. Payments will go directly to landlords, not tenants. Civil Beat.

State launches $100 million housing assistance program. The state is launching a $100 million program designed help Hawaii residents pay for and stay in their current housing amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that’s put thousands out of work. West Hawaii Today.

Governor Announces Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program. The new program will provide federal assistance for Hawai‘i renters at risk of eviction for non-payment of rent because of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the State says. Big Island Video News.

Ige announces $100 million in rental assistance. The state’s moratorium on evictions is valid through the end of the month, but any missed payments during this pandemic are still owed to landlords. Garden Island.

Gov. Ige Announces Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program. Governor David Ige announced the launch of a new program that will provide federal assistance for Hawai‘i renters at risk of eviction for non-payment of rent because of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Maui Now.

State to provide qualified residents rent money. The state announced on Sept. 8 it will provide $100 million to renters and eventually homeowners. KHON2.

=====

‘Special master’ to oversee Hawaii’s Department of Public Safety. The embattled state Department of Public Safety went under a new level of oversight and scrutiny in the era of COVID-19 on Tuesday after Gov. David Ige announced that he has appointed the chairman of the state Hawaii Paroling Authority as Ige’s “special master” over DPS. Star-Advertiser.

Ige selects Department of Public Safety insider to assess DPS in wake of COVID-19 outbreak. In the wake of an outbreak of COVID-19 in the state’s largest jail, the governor has appointed the chairman of the Hawaii Paroling Authority as a special master to assist in overseeing the state Department of Public Safety. West Hawaii Today.

=====

Senate Committee Requests Pre-Testing Pilot Program for Interisland Travel. A Hawai‘i Senate Committee is calling for a program that would require coronavirus testing for those wishing to travel between the Hawaiian Islands. Big Island Now.

Senate Special Committee Calls for Pre-Testing Pilot Program for Travel Between Neighbor Island Counties. Members of the Hawai‘i State Senate Special Committee on COVID-19 sent a letter to Governor David Ige calling for neighbor island counties to serve as Pilot Program testing sites for exclusive travel between neighbor island counties. Maui Now.

=====

Hawaii surpasses 10,000 COVID-19 cases. The state Department of Health on Tuesday reported 66 new cases of the novel coronavirus bringing Hawaii’s total case to 10,025 cases since Feb. 28. West Hawaii Today.

Hawaii COVID-19 Updates For Tuesday, Sept. 8th: 66 New Cases Lift State Over 10,000 Total. Big Island Video News.

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 8: 66 New Cases And 2 Deaths. It was one of the lowest daily counts seen in more than a month. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell extends stay-at-home, work-from-home order. Oahu’s stay-at-home, work-from-home order to curb a surge in new daily coronavirus cases will continue for at least the next two weeks, with changes to allow for limited outdoor activities. Star-Advertiser.

Oahu Parks, Beaches To Reopen – But Only For Solo Activity. Parents are not allowed to bring their kids to the beach, the mayor said. Civil Beat.

Mayor extends stay-at-home order, but reopens parks and beaches for solo activities. Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell is extending Oahu’s stay-at-home order for two more weeks ― through Sept. 23 ― but will reopen parks and beaches for individual activities. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu Mayor extends stay-at-home order for 2 more weeks. Mayor Kirk Caldwell announced an extension to the stay-at-home order which will now end on Sept. 23. KHON2.

Rules for going solo on Oahu outdoor pursuits raise safety concerns. In the mayor’s latest order, city parks and trails will reopen for limited uses such as walking, running and biking, but only by oneself. Group activities will not be allowed. Star-Advertiser.

=====

2 more city bus operators test positive; last routes driven released. One of the operators last worked on Friday, Aug. 28 and did not have any COVID-19 symptoms while on the job. Hawaii News Now.

Kalihi Has The Worst COVID-19 Outbreak In Hawaii. Here’s How The Community Is Responding. Nonprofits are pivoting to help residents in a community facing the worst outbreak of COVID-19 of any zip code in the state, along with high rates of unemployment. Civil Beat.

Community divide over an affordable housing project planned for Kailua deepens. An affordable rental housing project in a Kailua neighborhood continues its uphill battle, despite strong opposition. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu private schools differ on when to bring back students. ‘Iolani School plans to bring all students back to campus Sept. 21 with extensive safety precautions against COVID-19, but some other big private schools remain wary of in-person classes. Star-Advertiser.

=====

EPA orders Waianae company to stop selling pesticides claiming to kill coronavirus. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has ordered a Waianae-based company to stop distributing and selling two pesticides known as “InstaPURE” and “EverPURE” because they are not registered and make misleading claims. Star-Advertiser.

EPA orders Waianae company to stop using unapproved COVID-fighting chemicals. The Environmental Protection Agency is ordering a Waianae-based company to stop using two chemicals it allegedly markets as coronavirus killers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Officials: Inmates barricade themselves, set fire and riot at HCCC. The Hawaii Police Department, Hawaii Fire Department and state Sheriff’s Division responded late Tuesday afternoon to what police described as a “riot” at Hawaii Community Correctional Center in Hilo. Tribune-Herald.

Inmates riot and set fire to housing unit at Hilo jail. Several inmates were injured Tuesday during a riot and fire at the Hawaii Community Correctional Center in Hilo. Star-Advertiser.

Affray at HCCC Contained After Inmates Start Fire. Authorities have contained an incident at Hawai‘i Community Correctional Center where inmates started a fire and barricaded doors on one of the units Tuesday afternoon. Big Island Now.

Photos Show Inmates Rounded Up After HCCC Riot. The situation at the Hawaii Community Correctional Center was contained Tuesday evening, after a riot broke out at the facility. Big Island Video News.

Disturbance at Hilo’s correctional center contained after fire, barricades. A Department of Public Safety spokesperson said the incident began around 3:45 p.m. and was contained by 5:30 p.m. Hawaii News Now.

‘Public safety has things that need to be corrected,’ a lawmaker says as a riot occurs at HCCC. A jail riot at Hawaii Community Correctional Center is causing concern among some state leaders. KHON2.

=====

Team from the state to review COVID response at veterans home in Hilo. A state team will be assembled today to conduct a review of the COVID-19 outbreak response at Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home, and the virus was reported in two more Big Island long-term care facilities. Tribune-Herald.

Army to seek lease extension of state-owned land. The U.S. Army is seeking input for an upcoming environmental impact statement to retain its lease of nearly 23,000 acres at Pohakuloa Training Area. West Hawaii Today.

Kealakekua man fined $5,500 for fish poaching. A Kealakekua resident was sentenced Tuesday to pay $5,500 in fines stemming from the illegal collection of 550 aquarium fish earlier this year from waters off South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Roselani Place COVID-19 Cases Rise to 47 Total Since Aug. 15. The number of COVID-19 positive cases at the Roselani Place assisted living community is now 47–including 28 staff and 19 residents. Maui Now.

New owners bring life back to local brewery. About $1M infused into Kohola Brewery to restart company shuttered by pandemic. Maui News.

Maui Cattle Company Offers COVID-Friendly Drive-Up Sale on Friday. Maui Cattle Company, a local business founded in 2002, hosts a third drive-up sale from 8 a.m. to noon on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 at their facility located at 106 South Kāne Street (between Kahului Foodland and Sysco) in Kahului. Maui Now.

Kauai

Aloha for Kaua‘i campaign to assist small business extended. The Aloha for Kaua‘i campaign, conducted in partnership with the Kaua‘i Visitors Bureau, the county’s Office of Economic Development, the Kupa‘a Kaua‘i program and Jaxon Communications, has received notice that the program has been extended through the end of the year. Garden Island.

Decision on proposed Hanalei brewery deferred. The proposal for a new brewpub in Hanalei was before the Planning Commission Tuesday, but because of an influx of new public testimony, all action was deferred to next month. Garden Island.

Multiple agencies contain airport fire. Firefighters contained a 100-acre brushfire that broke out near the makai side of Lihu‘e Airport on Monday afternoon. Garden Island.

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

Lt. Gov. Green explains ICU beds in a July 29, 2020 briefing (from video)

Here’s the 5-point plan Lt. Gov. Green says Hawaii needs to follow to lower COVID cases. Lt. Gov. Josh Green says Hawaii can defeat COVID-19, and bring numbers significantly lower again. Hawaii News Now.

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

=====

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

=====

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

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

=====

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

=====

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

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

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

Oahu

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

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

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

=====

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

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

=====

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

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

=====

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

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

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

Hawaii Island

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

=====

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

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

=====

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

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

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

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

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

Maui

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

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

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

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

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

Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

=====

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

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

Hawaii traveler quarantine likely to be extended again, state epidemiologist takes leave as Health Department leadership flounders, group threatens legal action over contact tracing fail, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii dawn ©2020 All Hawaii News

When will tourism in Hawaii reopen? One expert predicts it might not be until 2021. The trans-Pacific quarantine rules for travelers to Hawaii remains in effect until at least Oct. 1, but one travel expert thinks that will be pushed back again. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Embattled state epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Park put on paid leave. The turmoil at the top of the state’s public health organization reflects deep frustration with Hawaii’s inability to halt the spread of the coronavirus in the past two months. Star-Advertiser.

Sarah Park Is Stepping Aside At Hawaii Department Of Health. The embattled state epidemiologist is taking a leave of absence, health department officials announced late Thursday. Civil Beat.

Shake-up in DOH leadership continues amid global pandemic.  Late Thursday afternoon, Sept. 3, the Hawaii State Department of Health confirmed Dr. Sarah Park will be taking a paid leave of absence from her position, Park’s decision comes after officials have called for her to step down from her duties. KHON2.

DOH: Embattled state epidemiologist Sarah Park takes leave of absence. Dr. Sarah Park, the state’s embattled epidemiologist, has taken a leave of absence, the state Health Department confirmed Thursday night. Hawaii News Now.

Dr. Sarah Park takes leave of absence from Department of Health. Dr. Sarah Park is taking a leave of absence from her work at the Department of Health. KITV4.

=====

How Hawaii’s Reliance On ‘Labor Intensive’ Fax Machines Hampers Contact Tracing. Before asking to go on leave, the epidemiologist helping to lead the effort to identify how COVID-19 is spreading in the islands was trying to make the process more efficient. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers want Gen. Hara to take the lead on contact tracing. There are renewed calls for the governor to make more changes at the Department of Health after recently hired Dr. Emily Roberson took an abrupt leave of absence. KHON2.

Failure To Communicate: State Provides Inadequate COVID-19 Outreach, Services To Pacific Islanders. Pacific Islanders have been hardest hit by COVID-19 in the islands. They are catching the virus in disproportion to their small numbers in the population. One reason is that -- as with young people -- public information on how to avoid the virus has been failing to reach them in ways they can act on it. Hawaii Public Radio.

=====

Analysis: Hawaii Students Most At Risk Of Learning Loss. The study was based off a one-week snapshot of U.S. Census Bureau data from May during nationwide school closures. Civil Beat.

Survey seeks input from families about distance learning. A nonprofit organization created for parents, educators and policymakers for public schools in Hawai‘i is looking for parents statewide to fill out an online survey by Tuesday, Sept. 8. Garden Island.

=====

Kupuna advocacy group threatens Health Department with legal action over Hawaii contact tracing. A group that advocates for senior citizens has begun legal action to increase the number of contact tracers in Hawaii and to require the Department of Health to provide translation services. Star-Advertiser.

Governor Discusses Hawai‘i’s New Safe Travels Program. Governor David Ige and Douglas Murdock, Enterprise Technology Services Chief Information Officer, participated in a Facebook live Thursday, to discuss the new Safe Travels mandatory online form. Maui Now.

New Safe Travels app explained. Safe Travels Hawaii, the web application intended to manage travel to the state, went live Tuesday and has replaced paper documentation for arriving airline passengers. Tribune-Herald.

=====

Uncertainty over new federal unemployment benefits. Unemployed workers who receive at least $100 per week in state unemployment benefits will be eligible for another $300 per week for four weeks, but when they’ll get the money is unclear. Star-Advertiser.

$300 in extra benefits good only through Aug. 22. State officials are developing a plan to distribute additional unemployment benefits from the Lost Wages Assistance Program, a new federally funded unemployment insurance plan. Tribune-Herald.

State has paid out nearly $3 million in unemployment. Since March 1, the state Department of Labor and Industrial Relations has paid out nearly $3 billion in unemployment insurance benefits for 3,015,688 weeks claimed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Thursday press release. Garden Island.

=====

University Of Hawaii Regents Reject ‘Shell Game’ Budget Proposal. The administration says it is in “triage” mode, facing $138 million in lost revenues. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii athletic department projecting a $9.3 million deficit for fiscal year due to the impact of COVID-19. The price tag on the pandemic for the University of Hawaii athletic department could be a $9.3 million deficit for the current fiscal year, doubling its previous record shortfall. Star-Advertiser.

COVID-19 puts University of Hawai'i football and volleyball on hold. COVID-19 has put a hold on two of the program's biggest money makers football and women's volleyball. KITV4.

=====

VIRUS TRACKER — Sept. 3: 211 New Cases And 4 Deaths In Hawaii. More than 2,400 Hawaii residents under the age of 30 have been diagnosed with COVID-19 since the pandemic began. Civil Beat.

Hawaiʻi COVID-19 Updates For Thursday, Sept. 3rd: 211 New Cases, 4 Deaths. There were 211 newly reported cases of COVID-19 in the State of Hawaiʻi as of noon on Thursday, health officials announced. Big Island Video News.

DOH Reports 211 New COVID-19 Cases Statewide, 4 Deaths. The Hawai‘i Department of Health reported 211 new cases of coronavirus on Thursday, bringing the statewide total to 8,991. DOH also reported four new COVID-related deaths bringing the death toll to 79. Big Island Now.

Oahu

Campaign Spending Commission Investigating Anti-Amemiya PAC. People who donated to the PAC are not among Hawaii’s typical political contributors. Civil Beat.

Some quarantine violators are being told to leave quarantine again to answer to a judge. Travelers charged with violating the mandatory 14-day quarantine are being ordered to leave their isolation location — in some cases, violating the mandatory quarantine order again — to appear for court proceedings. Hawaii News Now.

=====

H-3 testing turnout rises as state flouts the feds again. Surge testing for COVID-19 continued on the H-3 Freeway on Thursday with more than 5,000 signing up in advance and vehicles lining up for miles on both sides of the Koolau mountains. Star-Advertiser.

Thousands participate in free ‘surge’ coronavirus testing site on H-3 Freeway. The Honolulu Fire Department reported more than 5,000 people registered for Thursday’s testing. Hawaii News Now.

=====

Here’s What Honolulu Is Doing To Test Hard-Hit Communities For COVID-19. City officials say they are trying to get testing sites up and running quickly, and plan to keep improving outreach efforts. Civil Beat.

Labor Day weekend to test Oahu’s ‘social gathering’ ban. The three-day Labor Day weekend represents a major test of how people across Oahu comply with — or ignore — Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s ban on nearly all indoor and outdoor social gatherings to slow the spread of COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

State sees increase in calls for homeless outreach on Oahu. Hawaii State Homeless Coordinator Scott Morishige said their office has been getting more calls from the public asking for outreach services to go out to homeless camps that have been popping up around Oahu. KHON2.

Illegal game rooms, booming amid the pandemic, are moving into residential areas. The Honolulu Police Department said it is conducting more raids of illegal gaming in residential areas on Oahu during the pandemic. Hawaii News Now.

DOH Closes, Fines Illegal Adult Care Home. The Grateful ARCH in Honolulu must pay $249,000. The Hawaii Department of Health on Thursday shuttered an illegal adult residential care home at 4416 Ukali Street in Honolulu and assessed it a large fine. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Island

Council leaders call for lockdown: Chung, Eoff worry virus is getting out of control. The Hawaii County Council leadership is asking Mayor Harry Kim to institute a temporary stay-home order to stem the rising tide of coronavirus infections on the island. West Hawaii Today.

DOH Struggles To Trace Surge In Big Island Cases To Large Gatherings. A rapid recent growth in the number of infections has many residents wondering exactly what is driving the surge. Civil Beat.

Kim will not isolate Miloli‘i; testing planned Saturday for village residents. Mayor Harry Kim on Thursday said he will not isolate the community of Miloli‘i as requested by island legislators. West Hawaii Today.

“Narnia” Area In Hilo Now Closed Due To Large Group Gatherings. The State of Hawaiʻi says the waterway about the J7 ranch along the Wailuku River has been closed due to concerns over large gatherings. Big Island Video News.

=====

Hawaii County Sets Up COVID-19 Command Center. Hawaii County Mayor Harry Kim has opened a coronavirus Central Command Post near the Edith Kanakaole stadium in an effort to get better communication between county, state and federal agencies. Civil Beat.

Hawai‘i County Opens Central Command Post to Combat COVID-19. Aunty Sally Kaleohano’s Luau Hale in Hilo is being converted into an emergency operation center as county officials continue their efforts in combating the spread of COVID-19. Big Island Now.

=====

Park-goers take word of new restrictions in stride. With COVID-19 cases on Hawaii Island continuing to surge, Mayor Harry Kim announced Wednesday that all county and state beach parks will close today until Sept. 18. Tribune-Herald.

Prosecutors concerned about release of HCCC felons. With two dozen felony inmates at Hawaii Community Correctional Center set to be released over the next few days, Hawaii County prosecutors have concerns about public safety. Tribune-Herald.

Fake emails plague PUC’s review of Honua Ola Bioenergy project. The state Public Utilities Commission, which is being pressured to reconsider its decision to terminate the Honua Ola Bioenergy deal on the Big Island, said it has received fake emails supporting the project. Star-Advertiser.

Maui

A slow return at Haleakala National Park after a phased reopening. Park attendance plunged 97% in June from the same month last year and was down 61% over the first half of 2020, according to National Park Service statistics. Star-Advertiser.

Imua launches texting program. Service offers facts, tips and activities for families. In response to growing concerns of parents over distance and remote learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Imua Family Services launched a free text messaging system for families with young children to provide “useful, safe and timely” lessons and techniques. Maui News.

Kauai

KPD aware of Love Has Won group. The Kaua‘i Police Department is aware of a group currently moving to Kaua‘i that residents have raised concerns about throughout the week. However, KPD states there is no evidence of illegal activity. Garden Island.

CARES Act funding boosts Malama Na Apapa’s visibility. The nonprofit organization primarily focuses on marine-ecology education, community-outreach programs in schools, and surveys to collect data about the health of Kaua‘i’s reefs. Garden Island.