Hawaii drops case against U.S. Surgeon General, vaccine shortage limits inoculations, budget woes plague Legislature, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams in Honolulu file photo

Honolulu Prosecutor Drops Surgeon General’s COVID Violation Charge. Newly elected Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm is moving to dismiss the criminal cases against U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and his aide after Honolulu police cited the men for allegedly violating pandemic rules in August. Civil Beat.

New prosecutor wants surgeon general’s case dismissed. Honolulu’s new prosecutor, Steve Alm, submitted a motion Tuesday seeking to dismiss charges against U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams and his aide for allegedly violating an emergency COVID-19 order at an Oahu beach in August. Star-Advertiser.

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Opening of Hawaii Legislature closed to public but viewable online, on ‘Olelo. The public will not be allowed into the state Capitol today for the opening day of the legislative session — or for the foreseeable future during the session — but can watch today’s limited and subdued proceedings via YouTube and ‘Olelo television. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii State Legislature back in session. The Hawaii State Legislature is back in session. The House and Senate will convene Wednesday for opening day for the 31st session, but unlike years past, there will be no entertainment, speeches or food. KITV4.

In new legislative session, leaders seek changes in penalties for COVID violations. State leaders intend to change the penalty for those who violate COVID emergency orders as a new legislative session begins on Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

The Battered State Budget Will Dominate The Next Hawaii Legislature. Faced with an unprecedented plunge in state tax collections during the pandemic, Gov. David Ige in December crafted a proposed spending plan for the next two years that was packed with painful cuts, including the elimination and reduction of numerous positions. Civil Beat.

Hawaii House Speaker Launches Probe of State Auditor. House Speaker Scott Saiki said late and unfinished reports could be cause for lawmakers to remove state Auditor Les Kondo. Civil Beat.

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DOE To Present Grim Staffing Plan But Says Teacher Layoffs Are A ‘Last Resort’. The Department of Education will present the schools’ proposed reorganization plans to the state Board of Education on Thursday. Civil Beat.

Hawaii teachers union challenges proposed staff cuts, use of federal funds for tutoring services. The Hawaii State Teachers Association said today that budget cuts and layoffs proposed by the governor and school superintendent are actually prohibited by federal rules that come with the use of stimulus funds. Star-Advertiser.

HSTA claims budget cuts violates federal law. The Hawaii State Teachers Association claims Governor David Ige is violating federal law by proposing layoffs and salary cuts in the Department of Education. HSTA President Corey Rosenlee says the governor wants to cut nearly $400 million from the budget. KITV4.

Board of Education To Discuss Massive Teacher Layoffs and Budget Cuts at Virtual Meeting Jan. 21. The Hawaiʻi Board of Education will hold a virtual public meeting Thursday, Jan. 21, to hear testimony regarding the proposed teacher layoffs and budget cuts to the Department of Education due to the statewide economic woes caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Maui Now.

Hawaii Public School Students Saw More Learning Loss During the Pandemic Compared to Other Years. The number of middle and elementary school students who are more than two grade levels behind in math and reading is higher now compared to previous years, according to the State Department of Education. Hawaii Public Radio.

Leaders criticize ‘chronic mismanagement’ of Native Hawaiian burials. Island burial council leaders are accusing the state of “systemic and chronic mismanagement” of a program developed three decades ago to handle the discovery of Native Hawaiian burials and are calling on the Legislature, which convenes today, to establish a working group to implement reforms. Star-Advertiser.
 

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Gov. Ige appoints Hawaii island educator to fill Kai Kahele’s vacant state Senate seat. Gov. David Ige has appointed Laura Acasio to fill the state senate seat left vacant by Congressman Kai Kahele. Acasio will represent the greater Hilo area. Star-Advertiser.

Ige Selects Acasio To Fill Kahele’s Senate Seat. She is a teacher who has served in Democratic Party leadership roles. Civil Beat.

Ige appoints Hilo educator Acasio to Kahele’s former state Senate seat. Gov. David Ige on Tuesday announced the appointment of longtime educator Laura Clint Acasio to fill the state Senate District 1 seat that became vacant with the election of Kai Kahele to U.S. Congress. Tribune-Herald.

Laura Acasio Appointed To Vacant Hawaii State Senate Seat. Governor David Ige announced the appointment Tuesday, filling the empty State Senate District 1 seat which encompassing the greater Hilo area. Big Island Video News.

Ige Fills Vacant Big Island Senate Seat. Governor David Ige on Tuesday officially appointed Laura Acasio to the Hawai‘i State Senate. Big Island Now.

Gov. Ige Appoints Laura Acasio to Fill Kahele’s District 1 Vacancy. Governor David Ige announced today the appointment of Laura Acasio to fill the vacant Senate District 1 seat left by Congressman Kaialiʻi Kahele. State Senate District 1 includes the greater Hilo area. Maui Now.

Hawaii Island educator tapped to fill vacant state senate seat. The state senate seat vacated by Congressman Kai Kahele will be filled by a longtime Hawaii educator. Hawaii News Now.

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Hawaii vaccine shortage stymies mass rollout. Thousands of COVID-19 vaccination appointments are being canceled or not made at all because of limited supplies in the islands. Star-Advertiser.

State: COVID-19 inoculation efforts still slowed by limited doses of vaccine. State officials said Tuesday that the distribution of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in Hawaii was being hamstrung by difficulties in obtaining vials of the vaccine in the first place. Hawaii News Now.

‘Demand far exceeds supply’: Ige, others urge patience about vaccinations. Officials used the terms “ramp up” and “ramping up” several times Tuesday while describing the state’s rollout of coronavirus vaccinations, but cautioned that the operation likely won’t proceed quickly. Tribune-Herald.

Hawaii will receive fewer doses of COVID-19 vaccines this week. The state will only receive 32,725 doses this week, compared to about 59,000 last week. KITV4.

Hawai‘i Vaccine Distribution ‘More Efficient’ as Partnerships Increase. Hawai‘i demand for COVID-19 vaccinations continues to outpace supply, as well as the state’s ability to administer the doses already in its possession. Big Island Now.

State pushing vaccine rollout. The state wants to ramp-up its vaccine rollout effort, but supplies have varied from week to week. Garden Island.

State says inconsistency in vaccine shipment makes planning hard. The State says vaccination efforts have increased but they are constrained by limited supply. Plans are in place to ramp up vaccinations significantly but it has been challenging to plan ahead because they often do not find out until Thursday the number of doses they have for the following week. KHON2.

After backlash, state asks partners to vaccinate only kupuna, not caregivers. State officials said Tuesday that they had asked their healthcare partners to vaccinate only kupuna at mass inoculation events due to a shortage of available doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Labs On The Lookout For More Contagious COVID-19 Variants. The mutations found in other U.S. states have not appeared yet in the islands but officials say it’s just a matter of time. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 19: 65 New COVID-19 Cases And Two Deaths. Hawaii health officials announced two Oahu deaths and 65 new cases of COVID-19 on Tuesday, including 45 on Oahu, six on the Big Island, nine on Maui, and five Hawaii residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

A Year Later, HPD Still Investigating Shooting Deaths Of 2 Police Officers. The Honolulu Police Department says it is still investigating a Jan. 19, 2020 attack in which two HPD officers and a local homeowner were killed and several homes were burned down in the Diamond Head neighborhood. Civil Beat.

Loved ones remember fallen officers 1 year after Diamond Head tragedy. One year after terrible tragedy struck a Diamond Head neighborhood, family and community members continue to mourn the loss of two Honolulu police officers who lost their lives that day. KITV4.

Visitor to Diamond Head tragedy home says she tried to help, but laws prevented agencies from helping. Tuesday marks the tragic anniversary of two slain Honolulu Police Officers at the hand of Jerry Hanel. KHON2.

Survivor who came face to face with Diamond Head killer finds forgiveness 1 year later. There was almost a fifth death on the morning of Jan. 19, 2020 following the deadly rampage near Diamond Head. Hawaii News Now.

Honolulu police officers and Hibiscus Drive residents recall a calamity that killed 4. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

UPDATE: Council Planning Committee recommends unfavorable vote on Kern’s nomination. The County Council Planning Committee voted 5-4 Tuesday evening to send the confirmation of Planning Director Zendo Kern to the council later this month with a negative recommendation. West Hawaii Today.

Hilo hospital urges calm as kupuna vaccinations begin. Hilo Medical Center today will begin vaccinating older kupuna against COVID-19, but the hospital urges calm during the registration process. Tribune-Herald.

Kona hospital’s COVID-19 vaccine registration phone line fixed. Kona Community Hospital said Tuesday afternoon technical issues with its COVID-19 vaccine registration phone line have been fixed. West Hawaii Today.

Frequent traffic delays at new light stir call for solutions. A traffic light on Highway 11 near Keaau is causing consternation among residents and lawmakers alike, but there do not appear to be any immediate solutions, county officials say. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Maui Memorial says postponing 5,000 appointments after supply drop a “huge disappointment”. Maui Memorial Medical Center says it had to postpone thousands of vaccine appointments for three weeks because of a drop in supply. Hawaii News Now.

Maui Economic Development Board Awarded $300K to Scale-Up STEMworks Program. The Maui Economic Development Board was named one of seven nationwide winners of the US Department of Commerce’s STEM Talent Challenge. Maui Now.

Maui groups honor MLK. Maui County groups shared speeches, prayers, songs and poems in honor of the late Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most influential leaders of the civil rights movement who dreamt of equality and peace throughout the United States. Maui News.

Kauai

Menehune Fishpond up for sale. At $3 million, an up-for-sale listing renders the Alekoko “Menehune” Fishpond at about $30,000 per acre for the two-parceled, culturally-historic area that legend says was built in one night by a human chain of the mythical Menehune for an accessible food supply. Garden Island.

Kaua‘i Shores gives to local food banks. Kaua‘i Shores hotel General Manager Jennie Waiwaiole-Vega said they don’t know when the hotel in Waipouli will reopen its doors. Garden Island.

ASL interpreter succumbs to COVID-19, Hawaii legislative leaders to forego pomp and speeches, nurses in Hawaii paid the most, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Patty Sakal interprets Gov. David Ige's speech for the hearing impaired on Aug. 13, 2020

Beloved ASL interpreter for state dies from COVID-19 complications. Patty Sakal, 62, died from COVID-19 during a trip to California. KHON2.

ASL interpreter whose services amid pandemic helped keep community safe dies of COVID. A woman who helped the deaf community follow what was happening with the coronavirus crisis has been taken by the disease. Patty Sakal, 62, a veteran sign language interpreter and inspiring leader for the hearing-impaired community, died last week after contracting COVID-19. Hawaii News Now.

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Vaccinated travelers could be exempt from quarantine, testing by spring. Lt. Gov. Josh Green said travelers who get vaccinated for COVID-19 will likely be exempted from quarantine and testing requirements as early as this spring. Hawaii News Now.

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Opening day of Hawaii legislative session to be void of typical festivities. The typical pomp and circumstance will not be seen Wednesday, such as attendance by friends and family, entertainment, food and even speeches by key majority and minority leaders.  Star-Advertiser.

The Battered State Budget Will Dominate The Next Hawaii Legislature. With money tight, lawmakers are looking to the Biden administration and Congress to help shore up a huge deficit as the 2021 session opens this week. Civil Beat.

Hawaii Owes The Feds $700 Million. Businesses May Have To Pay The Tab. The state borrowed $700 million to pay unemployment benefits, but businesses may have to repay it. Civil Beat.

University of Hawaii and Department of Education brace for budget cuts. Millions of dollars in budget cuts to the state Department of Education and University of Hawaii system are expected to be finalized Thursday during separate board meetings for both departments. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmakers Still Hope To Pass Climate Legislation in 2021. Big ticket items like targets for cutting national carbon emissions or raising infrastructure ahead of sea level rise are often the focus in discussions of climate change. Hawaii Public Radio.

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What New Federal COVID-19 Relief Bill Means for Hawaiʻi Employers. The $900 billion pandemic aid bill passed by Congress at the end of 2020 aims to drive more money to small and minority-owned businesses, which makes it particularly relevant for Hawai‘i. Hawaii Business magazine.

Study shows nurses in Hawaii get paid the most in the country compared to other nurses. Nurses in Hawaii are paid the most in the country according to Business.org. KHON2.

Community Health Centers in Hawaiʻi Awarded $1.3 Million Grant for Telehealth Services. The Freeman Foundation and Hawaiʻi Community Foundation awarded $1.3 million in grants to 14 Federally Qualified Health Centers across the state, according to a news release. Maui Now.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 18: 129 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii has seen a triple-digit increase in cases for 14 straight days. Hawaii health officials reported 129 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Monday, including 83 on Oahu, 21 on Maui, nine on the Big Island, two on Kauai and 14 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Hundreds get immunized at Oahu’s first mass vaccination site. The soggy weather didn’t deter kupuna eager to receive a COVID-19 vaccine from filing into the cruise ship terminal at Pier 2 Monday morning. Hawaii News Now.

Kupuna get inoculated at Pier 2 as Hawaii mass vaccinations begin. But health officials are worried that there isn’t enough vaccine to sustain the huge demand. Nearly all of the 12,800 appointments for the large vaccination clinic are full through Jan 27, said Melinda Ashton, chief quality officer at Hawaii Pacific Health. Star-Advertiser.

Hundreds of appointments booked at mass vaccination sites on Oahu. Oahu’s senior citizens are starting to get their first COVID-19 shot as a mass vaccination site at Pier 2 kicked off on Monday with about 600 appointments booked. KHON2.

Hawaii bar owners John Harrison and Bill Comerford appeal to leaders to lift coronavirus restrictions. Bill Comerford and John Harrison have each owned and operated bars in Honolulu for decades, but both say that if COVID-19 restrictions are not lifted soon, they will lose their businesses. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Why more kids aren’t back at school; Despite low COVID case counts, administrators say numerous hurdles remain. Despite relatively low COVID-19 infection rates on the Big Island, some schools have opted to continue with distance learning this quarter, while others are working to bring students back to campus. Tribune-Herald.

Big Isle pediatricians to DOE: ‘Open our schools’. In a letter sent to Superintendent Christina Kishimoto and local complex area superintendents, six East Hawaii pediatricians — Lauren Stuart, Miki Cain, Darrett Choi, Joseph D’Angelo, Ty DeSilva and Diana Lindreoth — have recommended keiki return to full-time, in-person learning without delay. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

New rules requested by Maui County Mayor Mike Victorino take effect Tuesday. Travelers headed to Maui must download the “Aloha Safe Alert” app and stores must limit the amount of customers they let inside. KHON2.

Public Virtual Presentation: 7 Environmental Projects Funded Through Maui CARES. With unemployment at record levels due to COVID-19, Maui County followed the Great Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps’ model that put 3 million people to work. The County used federal CARES Act funding to put more than 70 Maui and Molokai residents to work in November for seven local conservation nonprofits. Maui Now.

Maui home prices reached new peaks last year. The Realtors Association of Maui recently published data showing that median sale prices rose to $795,575 for single-family homes and $570,000 for condos last year. Star-Advertiser.

Entrance, parking fees coming soon for Wai‘anapanapa State Park. In an effort to manage high traffic flow to Maui’s remote East Maui, a reservation system for commercial vehicles and individual tourists seeking to visit Wai’anapanapa State Park is anticipated to launch next month. Maui News.

Entry and Parking Fees at Waiʻānapanapa State Park Expected to Begin in February. A reservation system is expected to begin at East Maui’s Waiʻānapanapa State Park in the second or third week of February according to state leaders who provided an update during a weekend Zoom meeting. Maui Now.

Kauai

DPW briefs council on road resurfacing projects. The county is estimating about $10.625 million in General Excise Tax revenue this fiscal year, down about $7.46 million from the year before. Garden Island.

Hearing on home exemptions is Feb. 8. The County of Kaua‘i Department of Finance will hold a public hearing on Monday, Feb. 8, on the proposed amendments to the rules and regulations relating to home and related exemptions. Garden Island.

Military important economic driver amid pandemic, coronavirus cases spike as vaccinations delayed, new restrictions on Maui, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Pohakuloa Training Area ©2021 All Hawaii News

State report highlights defense sector importance. As the second largest sector of the state’s economy, military-procurement spending generated $4.5 billion in economic impact last year, with $2.3 billion in federal contracts throughout the state, helping to sustain more than 30,000 jobs statewide. Garden Island.

EPA: Hawaii’s Military Bases Dumped 630,000 Pounds Of Toxic Nitrate Into The Ocean. While federally permitted, the Environmental Protection Agency hopes the data’s public release spurs facilities to reduce their chemical waste. Civil Beat.

Contractor Sentenced In Army Corruption Scheme In Hawaii. John Winslett bribed Army officials with cash, cars and guns to win lucrative construction contracts in Hawaii, Justice Department said. Civil Beat.

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Hawaii Tourism Authority spent ‘exorbitant’ amounts marketing to visitors as lockdowns dropped demand. For the 2020 fiscal year, HTA estimated the cost per arrival for every U.S. visitor was $7.13, up more than 118% from the prior year. The cost per arrival for Japan during fiscal year 2020 was significantly higher at $17.17, a nearly 201% increase. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii lawmakers face tough choices amid pandemic recession. Cut spending, raise taxes or perhaps both. Hawaii lawmakers face tough choices as they convene a new legislative session this week amid a pandemic that has pummeled tourism, the state’s biggest industry, and depleted tax revenue. Hawaii News Now.

Despite weekend protests rumors, Hawaii’s Capitol was quiet Sunday. Bracing for large, unruly crowds, state officials put up barricades and fences around the Hawaii State Capitol, and beefed up security. But the effort seemed to be precautionary as there was a significant absence of crowds and protestors over the weekend. Hawaii News Now.

Noncommercial fishing is booming during pandemic. Hawaii is the only coastal state that doesn’t require fishers to have a noncommercial marine fishing license, which could provide information about how many noncommercial fishers there are in Hawaii and how many fish they’re taking from the ocean. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Lawmakers May Cut Solar Credits. The credits help to develop renewable energy projects but also cost the state millions of dollars. Civil Beat.

Farmers to petition lawmakers Opening Day. This past year, the pandemic has led to a rise in people in Hawaii beginning to grow their own produce and start sustainable farming. KITV4.

Isle cattle ranchers invited to join grass-fed beef venture. Hawaii’s largest ranch and an investment firm partner are looking for other local ranch operators to join a grass-feed beef production venture. Star-Advertiser.

Previously unknown cause is found for mysterious snorkeling deaths in a new Hawaii study. Rapid onset pulmonary edema was not previously associated with snorkeling, which has been implicated in 206 Hawaii drownings — 189 involving visitors — from 2009 to 2018, according to the state Department of Health. During that period, snorkeling-related drownings nearly doubled in what officials called an “alarming” rise. Star-Advertiser.

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Fast clip of coronavirus spread in Hawaii puts state at risk of another outbreak. Hawaii is at risk of another COVID-19 outbreak with the worst effective reproduction rate for infections in the nation after Washington state. Star-Advertiser.

Congresswoman Concerned About Hawaii Pandemic Response Got No Answers From Ige. Five months after a California congresswoman asked Hawaii for answers about its public health response and its spending of federal money, Gov. David Ige hasn’t provided her with any information. Civil Beat.

Lawmakers to Take a Hard Look at Correctional System After COVID-19 Hits 46 Percent of Inmates. State lawmakers are taking a hard look this session at some of the long-standing issues contributing to the spread of the coronavirus in Hawaiʻi’s jails and prisons. Hawaii Public Radio.

Blood bank is looking for COVID survivors. The Blood Bank of Hawaii is looking for more people who have recovered from COVID-19 to donate their convalescent plasma — the liquid part of the blood that contains antibodies to the new coronavirus — to help treat those who are hospitalized. Star-Advertiser.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 17: 132 New COVID-19 Cases And 2 Deaths. Hawaii has seen a triple-digit increase in cases for 13 straight days. Hawaii health officials reported 132 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Sunday, including 86 on Oahu, 29 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, one on Kauai and nine residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

The state’s first mass vaccination site opens Monday, Jan. 18, at Honolulu Harbor Pier 2. Hawaii Pacific Health said nearly 600 people have signed up for Monday and the rest of the week is booked with appointments. KHON2.

Community vaccination sites to open to essential workers and those 75 years and older. Mass vaccinations for the public are scheduled to begin on Monday. KITV4.

Waikiki Shell to be used in effort to return stranded American Samoa residents home. The state of Hawaii and the City and County of Honolulu have begun assisting about 800 American Samoan residents, who are traveling through Oahu en route to their previously shuttered island home. Star-Advertiser.

Waikiki Shell parking lot to assist in American Samoa repatriation efforts. The City and County of Honolulu is joining the state’s efforts to help bring an estimated 800 American Samoa residents back home. KHON2.

Polynesian Cultural Center reopening with limited capacity and activities as officials look ahead to tourism recovery. The Polynesian Cultural Center, a cornerstone of Laie and an economic magnet for the North Shore community, is set to reopen Monday following a 10-month-long closure — one of that last major attractions on Oahu to welcome back visitors after Hawaii tourism was shut down in March due to the corona­virus pandemic. Star-Advertiser.

Plans for 2 more Ward towers set for review. A state agency regulating development in Kakaako has scheduled public hearings in March to consider plans for developing two more condominium towers at Ward Village. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Roth says he’s ‘very hopeful’ following heart attack. The 56-year-old Roth, the former county prosecutor who was elected mayor in November and inaugurated on Dec. 7, had been in office just over a month when he was stricken. Tribune-Herald.

Gas use down 18%, County highway fund takes a hit from less driving. In all, drivers used about 18% less gasoline during a pandemic year that translated to fewer commutes and fewer tourists. It also translated to less money for road repair. West Hawaii Today.

High court denies writ to Honua Ola, appeal of PUC decision still active. The state Supreme Court on Thursday denied Honua Ola Bioenergy’s request to order the Public Utilities Commission to reconsider its denial of a requested waiver of the competitive bidding process used in the sale of electricity. Tribune-Herald.

Waikoloa development up for review: Council Planning Committee to hear rezoning application. A plan to develop a 36-unit housing complex, some units classified affordable, along with eight commercial lots in Waikoloa Village will be taken up by the County Council Planning Committee on Tuesday after a negative recommendation from the Leeward Planning Commission and the Planning Department under the prior administration. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Maui Vaccination Clinic Temporarily Closes Due To Shortage. All appointments scheduled through Feb. 7 have been canceled. Civil Beat.

Delayed shipment closes Maui vaccination clinic to first doses. Only second doses available at both local Moderna, Pfizer sites. Maui’s only vaccination clinic taking new registrations announced Saturday it will have to close for a week due to a shortage of Pfizer-BioNTech doses that were slated to come from the state. Maui News.

Vaccine Distribution Delay Prompts Temporary Suspension of New Appointments for First Doses at Maui Hospital. Maui Health, which runs the vaccination clinic at the Maui Memorial Medical Center, has also postponed appointments for individuals that were seeking a first dose and had already secured an appointment between Jan. 17 and Feb. 7. Maui Now.

Thousands of vaccinations on Maui pushed back due to shipment delay. Maui Health's clinic is pushing back between 300 and 400 slots a day over the next three weeks after the state notified the company Friday evening it will not be receiving its expected shipment of doses for this weekend and next week. KITV4.

Retailers, gyms face tighter restrictions. Large and small retail establishments will be restricted to 30 percent capacity starting at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, the latest in a series of rule changes aimed at slowing a spike in COVID-19 cases on Maui, county officials announced Friday. Maui News.

Maui County’s state lawmakers say proposed state budget is ‘fluid’. Furloughs and program cuts depend on what federal aid is available. Maui News.

Kauai

Kauai employment suffers under restrictive travel policies. Travel to Kauai plummeted after Kauai Mayor Derek Kawakami opted out of the Safe Travels program, effective Dec. 2, requiring all travelers to Kauai to undergo a mandatory 10-day quarantine with no option to test out. Star-Advertiser.

Paid positions available in youth conservation program. Kupu, Hawai‘i’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit organization, recently announced that applications are now being accepted for this summer’s Hawai‘i Youth Conservation Corps program on Kaua‘i. Garden Island.

Hawaii Capitol on lockdown prior to opening day of Legislature, more than half of inmates in emergency release re-arrested, state send 200 Guardsmen to U.S. Capitol, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

 

 

Hawaii Capitol lockdown PC:Sen. Chris Lee

Security heightened at state Capitol ahead of Friday protest and presidential inauguration next week. A pro-Donald Trump local grassroots group that pursues “faith, family and freedom” plans what it calls a “peaceful rally” at the state Capitol Friday amid heightened security including the installation of chain link-fence barricades blocking off the rotunda. Star-Advertiser.

No More ‘Gifts Of Aloha’ For State Lawmakers. Goodies gifted from lobbyists to lawmakers like manapua, PB&J sandwiches, musubi and trinkets are no longer allowed because of new state ethics rules that ban “gifts of aloha” for legislators. Civil Beat.

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200 Hawaii National Guard members deploying to D.C. for inauguration duty. The Hawaii Army National Guard is deploying about 200 troops to Washington, D.C., to “aid in and facilitate the peaceful transition of presidential power,” Gov. David Ige’s office said today. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii’s National Guard Is Sending 200 Troops To Help Secure Inauguration. The Hawaii Guardsmen will join troops from across the country in providing security  amid fears of more violence after a violent mob attacked the U.S. Capitol. Civil Beat.

200 Hawaii National Guard members headed to DC ahead of inauguration. About 200 members of the Hawaii National Guard are being deployed to Washington, D.C. ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration next week. Hawaii News Now.

Hawai‘i National Guard Sending 200 to DC in Advance of Inauguration. Two-hundred members of the State Guard will arrive at an unspecified date before Jan. 20 and will perform a multitude of missions in support of local law enforcement. Big Island Now.

Hawai‘i National Guard to deploy about 200 members to Washington, D.C. At the request of the National Guard Bureau, the Hawai‘i National Guard is set to deploy about 200 of its members to Washington, D.C., to aid in and facilitate the peaceful transition of presidential power, according to an announcement issued by the governor’s office this afternoon. Maui Now.

Hawai'i National Guard to deploy about 200 members to Washington, D.C. Roughly 800 guardsmen are still activated for COVID-19 support and the deployment of these members will not impact the effort to support the State of Hawai‘i, according to the state. KITV4.

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Isle inmates freed due to COVID commit crimes. Nearly 6 out of 10 people released early from Hawaii jails and prisons early last year over COVID-19 concerns have been charged with more offenses, a new study shows. Star-Advertiser.

New study reveals more than half of Hawaii inmates released under emergency orders reoffended. Several hundred Hawaii inmates were released last year under a state Supreme Court order to ease overcrowding and prevent coronavirus outbreaks in correctional facilities. Hawaii News Now.

State officials discuss release of inmates amid coronavirus pandemic. The House Committee on Corrections, Military and Veterans met to discuss the impact releasing inmates early due to the coronavirus had on the community. KHON2.

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More changes ahead for unemployment call center as backlog, fraud persist. Private contractor Maximus will wrap up its duties at the unemployment call center this week and is scheduled to be replaced by a reduced number of new in-house hires. KHON2.

Auditor: State Agriculture Agency Is Failing To Fulfill Mission. After 25 years, the Agribusiness Development Corp. hasn’t helped Hawaii re-fashion former sugar and pineapple plantations into viable economic engines, audit says. Civil Beat.

With evictions looming, advocates urge state not to cut funding for homeless programs. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii COVID-19 vaccine supply a concern for health officials. Health officials are worried that Hawaii might not have enough COVID-19 vaccines to sustain large-scale immunization clinics, two of which are opening within the next two weeks. Star-Advertiser.

Getting Consent From Seniors Poses Barrier To COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout. The elderly are most at risk, but for those with dementia, getting consent can be complicated. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 14: 179 New COVID-19 Cases And Six Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 179 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Thursday, including 122 on Oahu, 32 on Maui, 13 on the Big Island, one on Kauai and 11 state residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi won’t change current tier system. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi this morning said he has no intentions of tweaking or changing the current tier system established for Oahu by the former administration. Star-Advertiser.

Blangiardi says he’s hopeful Oahu will remain in Tier 2, despite rise in COVID-19 cases. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said Thursday that he’s hopeful Oahu will remain in Tier 2, despite a rise in new COVID-19 cases. Hawaii News Now.

Mayor Blangiardi plans changes to city’s tier system. Changes will be coming to Oahu’s tier system for reopening. Mayor Rick Blangiardi says, he wants to be more aggressive and efficient in getting residents vaccinated. KHON2.

Mayor Blangiardi discusses COVID-19 metrics for O'ahu on Thursday. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi addressed the COVID-19 pandemic in his first press conference. KITV4.

Mass COVID-19 Vaccination Centers Aim to Give 10,000 Doses a Day to Hawaii Residents. One vaccination center operated through Hawaii Pacific Health will open on Monday at Pier 2 Cruise Terminal. Another mass vaccination center operated through Queen’s Medical Center will open on the 25th at Neal Blaisdell Center. Both facilities hope to scale up to vaccinate 5,000 people per day. Hawaii Public Radio.

New Boulder Barriers Aim To Protect Monk Seals From Illegal Off-Roading. Trucks disrupting seals resting on the sand have been a problem for years at Wawamalu. The new barriers aim to stop that. Civil Beat.

Effort aims to keep vehicles off Sandy Beach shoreline. A 9.5-acre stretch of undeveloped city beach known as Wawamalu would be a pristine place where beachgoers could enjoy nature to the accompaniment of wind, waves and the cries of seabirds and children exploring tide pools, were it not for the roars of off-road vehicles driving on its sand beach, gouging deep, blackened tracks and tearing up the native vegetation and dunes. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

West Hawaii couple fined $76K for the illegal harvest of aquarium fish. State officials today said a West Hawaii couple has agreed to pay a fine of $76,400 for the illegal harvest of aquarium fish off of Kawaihae last February. Star-Advertiser.

Kealakekua couple settles for $76,400 of a top-end $550,000. A Kealakekua couple has agreed to pay $76,400 in fines for illegally collecting 550 aquarium fish last year off Kawaihae. West Hawaii Today.

Couple Pays Steep Fines For Aquarium Fishing Violations. Tyron and Kacie Terazono of Kealakekua have agreed to pay a large fine for the illegal harvest of aquarium fish offshore of Kawaihae in Hawai‘i County during February 2020. Big Island Now.

Kilauea Ave. work likely to last until 2022. As part of a statewide transportation improvement program, Kilauea Avenue is undergoing rehabilitation work, which includes repaving, installing pavement markers, striping and adding traffic detectors along a 1.5-mile stretch from the Wailoa Bridge to Puainako Street. Tribune-Herald.

Budget woes could shutter Youth Challenge Academy. Don’t close the book on the Hawaii National Guard’s Youth Challenge Academy in Hilo just yet — although a presentation by the state’s adjutant general to lawmakers earlier in the week gave the impression the program is dead in the budgetary water. Tribune-Herald.

Kona Community Hospital Expands Vaccination Eligibility. By next week, kūpuna will be able to register for coronavirus vaccination across the Big Island. Big Island Now.

Kupuna vaccinations to begin: Hospitals set to launch clinics for those over age 75. Kona Community Hospital said it is moving to Tier 1B in alignment with the state Department of Health’s vaccine distribution plan and will begin registering kupuna over age 75 on Tuesday to receive the first of two doses of Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. West Hawaii Today.

Maui

Mokulele Airlines expanding service to fill void left by ‘Ohana by Hawaiian’s suspension of operations. Mokulele Airlines today became the only airline flying to both Molokai and Lanai and announced plans to expand its interisland service to meet community needs. Star-Advertiser.

Mokulele Airlines Expands on Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i. Mokulele Airlines is set to become the sole airline serving Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i beginning Friday when ‘Ohana by Hawaiian suspends operations. Maui Now.

Lt. Gov. Green Visits Maui as State Prepares for Ramped-Up Vaccine Distribution. Ramping Up Vaccinations; Maui Health Eyes Opening of S and W Maui Distribution Sites as Supplies Increase. Maui Now.

Maui cases continue to increase as County waits on rule modification approval from Gov. Ige. Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino is still awaiting approval from Gov. David Ige to modify some rules as the county continues to see double-digit cases. KHON2.

Shot clinic closes early as lines build up again. UH-MC site will limit next week’s clinic to top-tier patients only. Maui News.

In the wake of Maui condo outbreak, neighbors pitch in to ensure those in isolation don’t feel alone. At least 97 COVID-19 cases have now been linked to the Harbor Lights condominium in Kahului — and outbreak officials say likely started by a holiday choir practice. Hawaii News Now.

Proposed cement facility relocation at Kahului Harbor passes next hurdle. With a nod Tuesday from the Maui Planning Commission, Hawaiian Cement is about halfway through a lengthy process to relocate its Kahului Harbor facility about 600 feet away. Maui News.

Kauai

KPD’s short-staffing effect on proactivity. In 2020, the Patrol Services Bureau of the Kaua‘i Police Department responded to nearly 50,000 calls for service. Garden Island.

Koa‘e Makana housing project awarded. The Kaua‘i County Housing Agency and Mark Development Inc. have received an award from the Building Industry Association-Hawai‘i for the Koa‘e Makana workforce housing project in Koloa. Garden Island.

Homeless won't be counted this year, barricades block state Capitol, Maui asks why tourists get vaccinated first, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Homeless in Honolulu ©2021 All Hawaii News

Unsheltered homeless in Hawaii to go uncounted amid COVID-19. A wave of rising homelessness is expected to wash over Hawaii in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, yet any increase this year won’t be measured because an annual survey has been called off due to COVID-19. Star-Advertiser.

Homelessness anticipated to gradually rise. The state’s point man on homeless issues told lawmakers Wednesday he expects the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic to result in a gradual increase in homelessness statewide over the next few years. Tribune-Herald.

Barricades block Hawaii Capitol building entrances after FBI warns of armed protests in all states. The entrances to the Hawaii State Capitol, both on the mauka and makai side, are now protected with water walls and a chain-linked fence in preparation for possible protests that federal and state agencies are monitoring. KHON2.

Hawaii Lags Other States In Administering COVID-19 Vaccines, Federal Data Shows. Hawaii is lagging in rolling out COVID-19 vaccines, falling 44th nationwide on Wednesday as health officials struggle with capacity and uncertainty surrounding the federal delivery of more doses. Civil Beat.

HI-EMA makes corrections 3 years after false missile alert while DOD defends Hawaii. The state was jolted by the threat of an incoming ballistic missile on the morning of Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, only to find out that it was a false alarm. KHON2.

Hawaii Governor Weighs Income Tax Increases On Wealthy Residents, Ige’s chief of staff also suggests upping the “barrel tax” on fossil fuels to help balance the budget. Civil Beat.

$30M pricetag to renovate water features at the state Capitol raises eyebrows. State Comptroller Curt Otaguro asked lawmakers for $17.5 million this year and $12.5 million next year to fix the pond, which has been leaking water into the Capitol basement for years. Hawaii News Now.

Schools will have to absorb $5M they used to buy PPE in pandemic’s early days. Public schools will have to absorb the nearly $5 million they used to purchase personal protective equipment at the beginning of the pandemic. It’s money they thought they’d get back in federal emergency funds. Hawaii News Now.

Teacher Training Initiative Takes Shape Under COVID-19 Federal Grant. Hawaii community groups plan to convene dozens of local educators this summer to help build an open-source digital collection of lesson plans and teaching materials that will be free and accessible to students, teachers and parents by 2022. Civil Beat.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 13: 106 New COVID-19 Cases And Three Deaths. Hawaii health officials reported 106 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Wednesday, including 73 on Oahu, 11 on Maui, seven on the Big Island, two on Kauai and 13 state residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

First mass vaccination to kick off on Monday. About 1,000 people are scheduled to be the first in line when Hawaii’s first mass COVID-19 vaccination site opens at Honolulu’s Pier 2 cruise ship terminal on Monday. Star-Advertiser.

2 mass vaccination sites to launch on Oahu in a bid to ramp up distribution. The first of two mass vaccination sites on Oahu will launch Monday at Pier 2 amid a push to rapidly increase the number of people getting shots each day. Hawaii News Now.

Seniors first in line for Oahu mass COVID 19 vaccinations. Oahu's first mass vaccination site opens Monday, and another will begin the following week. Finally giving seniors, who have been eagerly awaiting vaccinations, a chance to get the shot. KITV4.

Tentative deal reached between Kapiolani Medical Center, nurses’ union. The nurses’ union and Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children have reportedly struck a deal in their ongoing contract negotiations. Hawaii News Now.

Queen’s Medical Center changing policies after second COVID cluster. A COVID-19 outbreak occurred in two clusters at The Queen’s Medical Center, where the family of a 75-year-old patient who tested positive after discharge said they were never told she was on one of the affected floors. Star-Advertiser.

Hawaii Island

Big Island's Doctor Shortage Could Grow to 72 Percent by 2030. Hawaiʻi County has the largest doctor shortage in the state with fewer than half of the physicians needed to properly serve the island’s population. Hawaii Public Radio.

Ethics Board seeks Kern’s client list. The county Board of Ethics, deluged with written testimony about Planning Director Zendo Kern’s fitness for the job, on Wednesday asked Kern for an “exhaustive list” of projects he’s worked on, then delayed a decision until next month. West Hawaii Today.

Kupuna vaccinations to begin. Hilo Medical Center’s “kupuna clinic” is set to offer vaccines to individuals 75 and older beginning Jan. 20. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

UHMC Vaccination Site Closes Early to “Maintain Safety and Order”. The University of Hawaiʻi Point of Distribution clinic for  COVID-19 vaccines closed early today “in an effort to maintain safety and order,” according to planners with the Maui District Health Office, which is running the site. Maui Now.

Maui residents question why mainland visitors are getting vaccinated in the islands. Some Hawaii residents are outraged after it was revealed that some vaccines are going to mainland visitors. Hawaii News Now.

Panel debates tourism’s role in COVID-19 surge at town hall. Officials, residents agree that second post-travel test should be required. Maui News.

Public Meetings Scheduled for Maui Housing Plan To Build 5,000 Affordable Family Homes. In November, HCA was awarded a contract from the Office of Council Services to engage the community in the creation of a comprehensive affordable housing plan that will improve the County’s workforce housing ordinance and identify opportunities to build 5,000 affordable homes for local families. Maui Now.

Contractor and condo appeal $75K fine over shoreline work. Hololani Resort Condominiums and Goodfellow Bros. are appealing a $75,000 county violation alleging their shoreline restoration work temporarily put the environment at risk. Maui News.

Maui Ocean Center to reopen after 10 months. Members, Maui County residents can visit for free during phased reopening. Maui News.

Kauai

Council authorizes DPW to secure $6.5 million loan. The county is moving forward with $6.5 million in upgrades to the Waimea Wastewater System. Garden Island.

Hundreds of essential workers on Kauai begin receiving COVID-19 vaccine doses. Kauai is well into its 1B phase of vaccinations, according to the Department of Health. Hawaii News Now.

‘Ele‘ele School receives cardboard desk donations. ‘Ele‘ele School received a donation of KeikiDesk cardboard desks from sponsors Hawai‘i Children’s Action Network and INNOVATE Hawai‘i last week. Garden Island.

Higher taxes on horizon, court halts aquarium industry, proms canceled, surgeon general seeks charges dismissed, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

School of fish in Hawaii ©2021 All Hawaii News

Gov. David Ige ponders higher fuel and wealth taxes. Linda Chu Takayama, chief of staff for Gov. David Ige, informed the House Finance Committee on Tuesday that these two types of taxes are possibilities to increase state revenue and partly offset a decline driven by coronavirus pandemic impacts. Star-Advertiser.

Lawmaker expects National Guard to help with security in Honolulu for Joe Biden inauguration. State House Speaker Scott Saiki expects the Hawaii National Guard to be called up — and says they should be armed — to help law enforcement deter any violent Donald Trump protesters in Honolulu leading up to Joe Biden’s inauguration next week. Star-Advertiser.

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Court Ruling Halts All Existing Hawaii Commercial Aquarium Fishing Licenses. The latest order compels state officials to cancel all existing commercial aquarium licenses because they lack the proper reviews, environmental advocates say. Civil Beat.

Court: Illegal aquarium-fish collection must stop now. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources improperly sidestepped a court order invalidating commercial marine licenses used for aquarium-fish collection, the state’s environmental court ruled Tuesday. Garden Island.

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Hawaii businesses could see their unemployment insurance triple if leaders don’t rewrite a certain state law. The state owes the federal government approximately $700 million after it took out a loan to shore-up unemployment funds last year. Under current state law, businesses have to pay off the loan. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Vector Control Branch Faces Budget Cuts (Again). The job losses could have serious effects on public health if another disease outbreak occurs. Civil Beat.

Newly Created Caucus Within State Legislature to Address Progressive Ideals. The Progressive Caucus, made up of 16 State representatives and senators, will be pushing an agenda that works to develop and empower public leaders to improve the economic and social conditions in Hawaiʻi. Big Island Now.

Judge to hear motion to dismiss charge against surgeon general. A judge is set to address a motion requesting to dismiss a charge against U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams, whom police cited in late August for allegedly violating an emergency order at an Oahu park. Star-Advertiser.

Isle vaccine rollout lagging. State officials are pointing fingers at one another over concerns of a lagging rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in Hawaii and a lack of coordination in ramping up large-scale immunization clinics to keep the disease under control. Star-Advertiser.

Kaiser Permanente Outlines Member Vaccination Rollout Procedure. Kaiser Permanente today sent information to its members on how it plans to roll out vaccinations on different islands this week, and procedures in place for scheduling appointments. Maui Now.

The DOE Plans To Use Private Tutors To Help Struggling Students Catch Up. Hawaii’s Department of Education requested private tutoring proposals in October to address “unprecedented issues related to student learning” due to the pandemic. Civil Beat.

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DOE cancels all proms, large gatherings for remainder of the school year. The DOE says it will announce plans for limited in-person commencement ceremonies by the end of February. Schools are already being encouraged to think of alternative ceremony formats, including drive-by and online festivities. Hawaii News Now.

DOE cancels all large school events, causes more hurdles for businesses. The Department of Education  officially canceled all large school functions for the rest of the school year. KHON2.

Public school proms canceled...again! The Department of Education cancels large in-person social school gatherings through June 1st. KITV4.

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How Single Mothers In Hawaii Are Weathering The Pandemic. Single mothers in Hawaii are coping with virtual learning coupled with expensive child care and a lack of remote jobs. Civil Beat.

No ‘twindemic’ as cases of flu remain scarce. Fears of a “twindemic” — an annual flu season combined with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic — have not been realized. Tribune-Herald.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 12: 114 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 114 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Tuesday, including 83 on Oahu, 21 on Maui, four on the Big Island and six state residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Alm says his top priority is restoring public’s trust in city Prosecutor’s Office. City Prosecutor Steve Alm said his top priority during his first 100 days in office will be to restore trust in his office. Alm takes over at the Prosecutor’s Office in the wake of years-long corruption scandals. Hawaii News Now.

Kealoha files top of Honolulu Prosecutor's to-do list. New Honolulu Prosecutor Steve Alm says restoring trust in his department is at the top of his 100-day plan. KITV4.

HPD to discuss $100,000 purchase of robot with Honolulu City Council. The first Honolulu City Council meeting of the year will include a discussion on recent purchases made by the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), which includes a robotic dog with a six-figure price tag. KHON2.

TheBus, Handi-van drivers call for hazard pay, but OTS says it’s a long shot. So far, Oahu Transportation Services says 42 staff members, including 25 drivers, have contracted COVID — although most are said to be from exposures outside of work. Hawaii News Now.

Lawsuit alleges businesses are victims of a massive city sewer fee ‘ripoff’. The city would not comment directly on the lawsuit but said that in general sewer fees for businesses are not based on current usage but on usage between 2010 and 2012. Hawaii News Now.

City allows walk-in entry to Hanauma Bay again. After implementing a no walk-in policy over the weekend, the city says it will allow walk-ins again starting Wednesday, Jan. 13. KHON2.

Reversing course, city will once again allow walk-in entry at Hanauma Bay. The city is changing their mind on new rules at Hanauma Bay. They previously announced walk-up entry to the bay wouldn’t be allowed, but that is changing starting Wednesday. Hawaii News Now.

City crews to repair a Waikiki rock wall, promenade impacted by erosion. Crews are fixing a damaged concrete wall near Queen’s Surf Beach, where king tides took out a lifeguard tower last summer. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Hilo Youth Challenge Academy To Close. Major General Kenneth Hara made the announcement Tuesday, as he presented the Hawaiʻi Department of Defense budget during a joint State Senate Committee meeting. Big Island Video News.

Cut red tape, but safety first: New Environmental Management director balks at Alii Drive sewer plan. Hawaii County residents who have expressed concern that Mayor Mitch Roth would push a pro-development agenda when he took office may have been reassured last week when his Environmental Management director — who still awaits council confirmation — delayed what seemed a formality accepting a sewer line because he thinks it could be a public health hazard. West Hawaii Today.

Local Algae May Prove Key to Slashing Livestock Methane Emissions. A tiny lab situated on the Kona Coast could hold the key to naturally reducing massive methane emissions from livestock around the world. Big Island Now.

Maui

As COVID-19 Cases Surge on Maui, County Leaders Balance Public Health vs. Devastated Economy. As COVID-19 surges on Maui, with an average of 30 new cases per day over the past two weeks, County leadership has experienced an even tougher balancing act between protecting public health and not doing more harm to an already devastated economy. Maui Now.

Mayor Victorino asks to limit capacity at big box stores. Due to a significant rise in COVID-19 cases, Maui County Mayor Michael Victorino submitted another proposed emergency rule to Governor David Ige Tuesday. KITV4.

Hundreds turn out for vaccine drive. State Department of Health officials were “swamped” at their COVID-19 vaccination site Monday in Kahului, with about 400 more patients than expected due to confusion over the online reservation system. Maui News.

Single-family home prices just shy of record. Median price hits $865,000 in December. Maui County single-family home prices in December came just shy of the all-time record set in October as demand stayed strong despite a surge in COVID-19 cases and a typically slow month, according to the latest report from the Realtors Association of Maui.  Maui News.

Kauai

Less than 4% of CARES funds remaining. The County of Kaua‘i has expended 96.1% of its COVID-19-relief funds, and still has some more time to exhaust the more than $28 million allotted by the state. Garden Island.

Planning Commission moves forward on Ag land use bill. A bill to amend the county’s zoning ordinances related to commercial uses on agriculturally zoned land has moved through the Planning Commission and is headed back to the County Council. Garden Island.

COVID-19 vaccines for kupuna start Friday. Kupuna, or the elderly ages 75 years and older, need an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccinations that start Friday at Wilcox Medical Center, states an announcement from Hawai‘i Pacific Health. Garden Island.

Committee confirms KIUC board candidates. Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative’s Nominating Committee has confirmed three candidates for its 2021 Board of Directors election on March 13. Garden Island.

Security ramped up at government buildings, Proud Boy leader out on bond, mass coronavirus vaccination centers planned on Oahu, more news from all the Hawaiian Islands

Hawaii state Capitol ©2021 All Hawaii News

Hawaii stepping up security at state Capitol and all government buildings. Gov. David Ige said Monday that Hawaii’s law enforcement agencies are taking appropriate steps to ensure security at the state Capitol and all government buildings after the FBI issued a warning that armed protests are possible at state capitols across the country in the days leading up to President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration. Star-Advertiser.

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Hawaii ‘Proud Boy’ Released From Custody, Still Faces Charge In DC. Nicholas Ochs is a self-professed member of a violent, far-right extremist organization that stormed the U.S. Capitol along with other supporters of President Donald Trump. Civil Beat.

Judge grants bond for ‘Proud Boys Hawaii’ founder. The founder of “Proud Boys Hawaii” accused of unlawfully entering the U.S. Capitol building in connection with Wednesday’s siege was released from federal custody today. Star-Advertiser.

Judge Grants Release For Hawaii Proud Boys Leader Charged In Capitol Insurrection. The Hawaii man arrested in connection with last week's armed riot at the U.S. Capitol made his first appearance in federal court today and was released on bail. Hawaii Public Radio.

“Proud Boys Hawaii” leader released on bond, not allowed to travel out of Oahu for alleged involvement in US Capitol riot. Nicholas Ochs, the founder of Proud Boys Hawaii, has been released from custody. KHON2.

Federal judge grants Hawaii Proud Boys leader release from prison, restricts travel. One of the people in custody for their involvement in last week's riot at the nation's Capitol, Nick Ochs -- the founder of the Hawaii Proud Boys, made his first appearance before a federal judge Monday. KITV4.

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Effort to expand local share of Hawaii's military spending. While Hawaii's tourism industry was hit hard during the pandemic, the state's second largest sector of the economy is going strong. Now some want even more effort to draw in defense spending. KITV4.

Hawaiʻi Tech Workers Earn a Median $79,040 Per Year. Hawaiʻi employs 10,890 tech workers who earn a median annual wage of $79,040, which is 78 percent more than the median annual wage for all occupations in Hawaiʻi at $44,400, according to researchers at Spanning, a company that provides backup and recovery for software applications. Maui Now.

DOE finds a way to spare hundreds of teaching positions, but hundreds more at risk. Education Department officials have revised downward the number of teaching positions that will to be slashed amid the ongoing fiscal crisis. But even the rosier picture calls for hundreds of jobs lost. Hawaii News Now.

New legislation could be coming to stop illegal fireworks from entering the state. State lawmakers say they have gotten calls from constituents since November asking for something to be done to stop them from going off through all hours of the night. KHON2.

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Local leaders step up to protect children from human trafficking. January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month and Child and Family Service say families seeking help for sex abuse has increased since the pandemic by about 20%. Hawaii News Now.

Local officials and nonprofits remind public of the dangers of human trafficking. Monday is National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. KHON2.

Human trafficking, sexual violence cases triple amid pandemic. According to John Tobon, the Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Honolulu, the human trafficking industry amasses $150 billion in global profits annually. KITV4.

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ACLU Urges State To Allow At-Risk Inmates To Be Vaccinated Early. Inmates and staff at correctional facilities are being infected at a higher rate than anyone else. Civil Beat.

ACLU calls for prisoner vaccinations. The American Civil Liberties Union Hawaii is urging the state to make sure inmates are included in its vaccination plan. KITV4.

Green: Hawaii ‘doing OK’ despite recent COVID-19 surge. Although the number of COVID-19 cases statewide is still in triple-digit territory amid a post-holiday surge, case counts seem to be on the decline. Tribune-Herald.

Vaccine data added to DOH dashboard. The state Department of Health has added information on the number of COVID-19 vaccinations administered in Hawaii to its online data portal. Maui News.

HAWAII VIRUS TRACKER — Jan. 11: 172 New COVID-19 Cases. Hawaii health officials reported 172 new cases of COVID-19 statewide on Monday, including 108 on Oahu, 33 on Maui, 20 on the Big Island, one on Kauai and 10 residents diagnosed out of state. Civil Beat.

Oahu

Mass vaccination centers planned on Oahu to administer COVID-19 doses. Health officials are hoping to administer as many as 100,000 shots this month and up to 150,000 doses monthly in February, March, April and May. Star-Advertiser.

State finalizing plan to launch 2 mass vaccination sites in Honolulu. The state is finalizing a plan to launch two mass vaccination sites in Honolulu ― one at Pier 2 and the other at the Neal Blaisdell Center, Lt. Gov. Josh Green said. Hawaii News Now.

Mass COVID-19 vaccinations for Phase 1B expected to start next Monday. KHON2.

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Blangiardi to hold off on tier changes as COVID-19 cases surge. Honolulu’s new mayor will hold off on any changes to the tier system, after a surge in new COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. KHON2.

Comments sought on Waikiki beach stabilization. A plan is moving forward to keep Waikiki’s existing beaches from disappearing and create a “new” beach near the shoreline of the Halekulani Hotel, which has been devoid of dry sand for years. Star-Advertiser.

Honolulu City Council committee to consider resolution in support of Dillingham Airfield. A Honolulu City Council committee will consider a resolution Tuesday introduced by Heidi Tsuneyoshi asking the state to work with “interested parties” including legislators, business groups and the Army “to ensure the continuance of general aviation” at Dillingham Airfield. Star-Advertiser.

Dillingham Airfield Still Set to Close in June. With unemployment in Hawaii at some of the highest levels in the country, a group of local business owners are pushing back on a state plan to end commercial operations at Oahu’s Dillingham Airfield. Hawaii Public Radio.

DHHL chair says Kapolei casino would be built on land not zoned for homes.  Defending gambling at the state capitol Monday, the chairman of the Hawaiian Home Lands program was peppered with questions from lawmakers. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaiian Host company sold to private investors. Some wealthy local and mainland investors have bought financially struggling kamaaina candy maker Hawaiian Host Group. Star-Advertiser.

Pet adoption on the road: Humane Society to launch mobile services van. The Hawaiian Humane Society is preparing to launch their new mobile adoption center which will bring animals in need of home out to the community. Hawaii News Now.

Hawaii Island

Roth remains hospitalized after heart attack. Mayor Mitch Roth remained hospitalized Monday at Hilo Medical Center after suffering a heart attack Saturday evening in South Kohala. West Hawaii Today.

Mayor Roth Recovering at HMC After Suffering a Heart Attack. Mayor Mitch Roth remains at Hilo Medical Center where he is recovering after suffering a heart attack on Saturday evening in South Kohala. Big Island Now.

Kern seeks ethics opinion: Planning director to address Board of Ethics on Wednesday. Planning Director Zendo Kern is seeking guidance from the Board of Ethics on potential conflicts of interest in his duties directing the operations of the Planning Department. West Hawaii Today.

UH-Hilo chancellor responds to criticism from Faculty Congress. The University of Hawaii at Hilo Faculty Congress has criticized Chancellor Bonnie Irwin’s tentative budget cut plans as the university faces a potential $5.7 million reduction. Tribune-Herald.

More than 150 residents, staff vaccinated for COVID-19 during Regency at Hualalai clinic. CVS Pharmacy administered the first dose of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to 114 residents and 49 team members, said Executive Director Stephen Hicks. West Hawaii Today.

Organizers: ’Unmasked flash mob’ canceled. An “unmasked flash mob” planned Saturday at the new Kailua-Kona Safeway has been called off, organizers said Monday evening. West Hawaii Today.

New Penn gym could be open by August. Construction to convert the old Hilo Lanes bowling alley property into a commercial center continues, despite the coronavirus pandemic. Tribune-Herald.

Maui

Approximately Three Dozen People Turned Away from Maui Drive-In Vaccination Clinic, Invited to Return on Wednesday. Out of the 750 people who showed up for the clinic, Maui District Health Officer, Dr. Lorrin Pang said 90 percent were from outside the clinic’s priority group, which was still attempting to finish vaccinations for those in the 1A priority grouping (which includes health care workers and long-term care facility residents). Maui Now.

Maui Health expands COVID-19 vaccine clinic to additional CDC phases. Maui Health is expanding their COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic to include Hawaii residents that fall within the CDC identified Phase 1A and Phase 1B vaccine prioritization timeline. KITV4.

Officials hopeful holiday surge is over, Maui asks for modifications to current rules after spike in cases. Maui continues to report double digit case numbers after a cluster broke out at the Harbor Lights Condominium Complex in Kahului in December. To date, there have been 97 cases reported in the county. KHON2.

Maui County Officials: “Closing Business Will Not Solve the Problem of Community Spread”. Maui Mayor Michael Victorino has requested the approval of new rules for the County of Maui as the number of new COVID-19 cases remain elevated.  Maui Now.

Kauai

Vaccine rollout for educators begins. Groups vaccinated this week include front-line essential workers, including teachers and staff at schools, preschools and daycares, those working in food or agricultural settings, grocery stores, postal workers and residents of small care homes. Garden Island.

Kauai teachers and child care workers are first in the industry to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. On Monday, more than 500 people registered for a shot. KITV4.

Kupuna over 75 can sign up for vaccines. Hospitals around the island are equipping to vaccinate kupuna over 75 beginning this Friday, Jan. 15. Garden Island.

Utah man arrested not once, but twice for violating Kauai’s traveler quarantine. To date, Kauai officials say police have made 192 arrests of quarantine violators. All individuals who are arrested are subject to up to one year in jail and/or up to $5,000 in fines. Hawaii News Now.

Kauai Realtors See Uptick In People Buying Houses Sight-Unseen. Relocations to Kauai from the mainland have become so common that it’s hard to drive more than a few miles on the island without seeing multiple out-of-state license plates. Civil Beat.