Much is still on our minds as Hawaii residents continue to adjust to this COVID world. As many operations reopen today and through the weekend, we still wrestle with economic woes and, yes, the need to respect the virus. We list here some of the happenings around town but while out enjoying, be careful. We see the numbers rise when we forget. So here again are more friendly nags given with care, love and safety in mind:
Wear a cloth mask whenever you’re away from home and among folks who aren’t in your immediate household.
Keep a 6-foot-distance of separation when you interact with people outside your household.
Refrain from large social gatherings and public outings.
Don’t leave home if you are sick unless you are seeking medical attention.
CITY LIGHTS UP FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
If you’re downtown and see Honolulu Hale lit up in yellow and black, it’s Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s order in recognition of “Juneteenth” and the Black Lives Matter movement. Lights on beginning tonight, Friday, June 19 through Sunday, June 21. See the Honolulu City Council’s Resolution 20-154 proclaiming June 19 as “Juneteenth” and an annual day of honor and reflection for social justice. To learn more about the history and meaning of Juneteenth, read here.
IOLANI PALACE REOPENING
Iolani Palace is reopening for tours starting today (Friday), June 19. During the first phase of reopening, self-guided audio tours will be available on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Additional days will be added in future stages. To learn more or to book a tour, visit their website.
FATHER’S DAY, SUNDAY, JUNE 21
Steak, Steak, Steak. What more do dads want? Take dad to any of these restaurants offering that delectable, juicy chunk of meat, that will surely make his weekend. And for last minute gifts for dad, maybe a go-pro, manscaping tools, a fishing class, a beer-pairing dinner? Find out more here.
UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATE
Some good news. The Department of Labor & Industrial Relations (DLIR) has worked to refine processing of unemployment insurance claims still pending to more strategically target the problems. They have brought down the incredible 250,000 claims to 17,000 as of yesterday, and working on these more difficult and complex cases. They are now spending three afternoons a week calling those who are still unable to get payments. One of their challenges: employers and claimants aren’t answering the department’s phone calls….so if you are an employer or worker with an unemployment claim and get a call from (833) 901-2272 or (833) 901-2275, answer it. It is the DLIR trying to reach you to process claims. If you were confirmed and have an account, be sure to submit your weekly report. This should help in expediting your claim and payment. If you have questions, the number to call is (833)901-2275. For more information about unemployment insurance and other labor issues please visit their website.
ALOHA OE SENATOR BREENE HARIMOTO
It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Senator Breene Harimoto who passed away Thursday night after a long fight with pancreatic cancer. He served his constituents with honor and treated everyone with kindness and respect. I was blessed to know and work with him and will miss his presence dearly. His legacy of public service with courage and grace will continue to benefit the people of Hawaii for many years to come. Aloha Oe Senator Harimoto.
