HPD, DOT and Waikiki Citizen Patrol want to remind you to watch out for walkers, runners, joggers, strollers, skippers, and wandering wayfarers — basically, any pedestrian who will probably be walking where you are driving.
‘Walk Wise’ and ‘Drive Wise’ Programs Focus on Pedestrian Safety Education
Pedestrian Safety Month is organized by the state department of transportation Walk Wise Hawaii (WWH) program and features daily public and private pedestrian safety events. Walk Wise Hawaii (WWH) focuses throughout the year on pedestrian safety education for seniors and elementary to college age students. WWH’s sister program, Drive Wise Hawaii, focuses on driver awareness of pedestrians by sharing seven tips for drivers to be more vigilant when behind the wheel regarding pedestrian safety. Information of both programs can be found here.
New State Emergency Proclamation, Mayor’s New Restrictions, CDC Recommendations
Governor Issues New Emergency Proclamation Related to Spike in Covid Case Numbers
In response to the announcement of 655 new COVID-19 cases statewide on Thursday, Governor David Ige issued a new emergency proclamation requiring all state and county employees to show proof of vaccination by August 16. Some details of the new order haven’t been ironed out yet, but here’s what we know so far:
More than 55,000 state workers and roughly 13,000 county workers are covered by the order. .
Employees could face termination if they fail to follow the order.
Or to watch a video of the Governor’s press conference, click here
The Senate Special Committee on Covid also had an informational briefing by the health care industry, HIEMA, departments of education and transportation (on SafeTravels), and the Attorney General. See the agenda and view the discussion.
Honolulu Mayor Announced New Restrictions on Social Gatherings
On Wednesday, Mayor Rick Blangiardi announced that Oahu will limit social gatherings to 25 people outdoors and 10 indoors. The decision marks a step back after the city loosened restrictions when the daily case count was lower. Oahu has been in Tier 5 of Honolulu’s Reopening Strategy, which allowed social gatherings up to 75 people outdoors and 25 indoors. The change is being driven by the highly contagious delta variant. So far, 60.4% of the population has been fully vaccinated.
CDC Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People
With the record number of covid cases in Hawaii and around the country, many are looking to the CDC for guidance. The CDC’s recommendations for fully vaccinated people can be found here.
Delta Variants, Covid Testing Sites, Sign up for Pandemic Updates
Delta Variant is the Most Prevalent Strain in Hawaii
A new report from the Hawaii Department of Health shows the Delta variant appears to be the most prevalent strain of the corona virus in the state. Lab tests also indicated that at least 25 cases are categorized as “Delta Plus” variants, a mutation of the existing Delta strain. Researchers are continuing to monitor whether “Delta Plus” is more contagious than Delta. To read the DOH full report, click here.
City Extends Free COVID-19 Testing through Aug. 14
City operations for its airport mobile testing lab has been extended for one more week to make sure the service remains accessible to Oahu residents as we face the COVID-19 surge. The PCR test will give results within six hours. Before heading to the location below, all clients must pre-register under the city pre-paid section here. Bring a valid state ID that shows your Oahu address/zip code.
Testing Site: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
Diamond Head Tour Group Area (just past baggage claim 31)
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Open 7 days a week, including on holidays.
For more info., visit https://kidneyhi.org/covid-19-testing-screening or call (833) 560-0997 send an email to covidresponse@kidneyhi.org.
Free Covid Testing Availability Increases
Can’t get to the airport testing site? Free COVID-19 testing is available through many federal, state, and county partnerships across the state. Regardless of vaccination status, individuals experiencing Covid symptoms who have been exposed to an infected person, are encouraged to get tested. Testing partnerships can all be found here.
Sign up to Receive Covid 19 News Updates
The state health department wants you to be informed about the latest on the pandemic. Knowing more about it and what’s being done to combat the virus could save your life, and the lives of others. Sign up here.
Eviction Moratorium, Unemployment, Water Assistance, HECO Incentive Programs
Eviction Moratorium: No One Will Be Evicted on August 7
Although the eviction moratorium expires today, August 6, 2021, no one will face eviction on August 7, 2021. It will only begin a mediation process for those who owe 4+ month of rent. Landlords must give tenants 15 days to respond to a mediation notice and another 15 days to complete mediation. After this point, if there is no resolution, then landlords and tenants can then proceed to court who legitimately need relief with those who just have chosen not to pay any rent without a legitimate reason. For more info., click here. Relief is also available, if eligible, from federal relief funding. See here.
Unemployment: What Happens When some UI Benefit Programs Expire Next Month?
The UI programs below are scheduled to expire next month. Once these programs end, only standard UI benefits will be available, with the usual eligibility requirements. See expiration dates below:
For more on the status of the above programs, click here.
Federal Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a temporary emergency program that will help low-income households and families afford water and wastewater services during the Coronavirus pandemic. It also helps to avoid water shut offs, and supports water system reconnections caused by missed payments during the pandemic. For more info., click here.
HECO Incentive Programs
Getting paid from HECO was unheard of years ago, but now the company’s incentive programs have energized many to look into it. Check out some answers about compensation:
How Does the Battery Incentive Program Compensate Customers? Customers will receive a one-time payment up front, based on the committed kilowatt capacity of their battery system. This payment will be considered income and must be reported to the Internal Revenue Service and the state Department of Taxation.
How Do you Know if You have Enough Solar Energy to Sell Back to HECO? Customers should work with their solar contractors to ensure that their existing or new rooftop system fits the program’s requirements. Learn more here.
DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
Governor Releases Funding for Waikiki Capital Improvement Project
$500,000 in Capital Improvement Project (CIP) funds was released for Waikīkī Beach Master Plan Improvements to the Halekulani and Fort DeRussy sectors of Waikiki Beach for preservation and protection from sea level rise. See the full plan here.
Prime Waikiki Retail Complex to be Redeveloped
One of the most prime retail corners in Waikiki is to be redeveloped for the third time in three decades. Local real estate investment firm BlackSand Capital plans to remake the two-story retail complex in the base of a 15-story office tower at the corner of Kalakaua and Royal Hawaiian avenues after buying the entire property for $270 million last week. Dubbed “Waikiki Walk,” the space featured two levels of retail stores on either side of a walkway designed to resemble a nearly century old street amid mock-ups of Iolani Palace, the Moana Hotel, a giant hau tree, the Dillingham Transportation Building and a Honolulu Harbor pier next to the “Spirit of Aloha” passenger liner. Read more here.
A Critical Shortage at Blood Bank of Hawaii
The Blood Bank of Hawaii (BBH) is experiencing a “critical shortage” of blood supply and is asking people to register for donations. Although all blood types are needed, there is an immediate and high need for B-Positive, O-Positive and O-Negative types. Because of the low supply of certain blood types, officials said appointments for donors with B-Positive, O-Positive and O-Negative will be prioritized. In the district, the BBH Young Street Donor Center site is located at 1907 Young Street, Honolulu, HI 96826. Phone: (808) 848-4770 and is open seven days a week: MON-THR, 6:30 am – 6:30pm; FRI-SUN 6:30 am – 4:30 pm. For more locations, click here.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
AUG 9: Watch A Live-streamed Senate Meeting on Current University of Hawaii Projects: 12:45pm
The purpose of this informational briefing is to gather information and receive an update on the Procurement for the remodeling of the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, the Atherton YMCA, and the Cancer Center early phase clinical trials. Click on the agenda here to view.
AUG 10: Waikiki Neighborhood Board, 6:00 – 8:30pm
Discussion includes the following:
City Ordinance Bill 17 (2020) CD1 – Addresses the real property tax exemption for homes of totally disabled persons.
Waikiki Special District Plan Proposed Changes
To view the meeting live, click on the agenda here.
AUG 11: City Council Meeting, 10:00am
Discussion includes the following:
Enforcement of House Code rules (I.e. civil fines and/or court-ordered injunctions to remove, demolish, destroy, or otherwise abate a public nuisance.), Bill 17 (2021) CD1.
Exempting centenarian residents from certain fees, Bill 26, CD2.
Urging the President, Congress, and the U.S. Education Secretary to cancel Federal student loan debt; Reso 21-155.
Height limits for rooftop structures, Reso 21-136.
Requesting the Department of Parks and Recreation to establish a maintenance schedule for City-owned parks and facilities, Reso 21-133, CD1.
To watch the meeting virtually, click on the agenda here.
AUG 11: Senate Special Committee on Accountability
Briefing on procurement and contracting procedures of the University of Hawaii 10:30-12:30 pm. The agenda and meeting information has not been posted yet, but you can go to capitol.hawaii.gov to check for updates.
AUG 12: ‘Planning for Sustainable Housing Growth in Hawaii,’ 8:00am – 3:00pm
Support more housing? Oppose luxury homes paving over farmland and conservation land? This conference seeks to explore the possibilities raised by very high-density housing construction as a solution to Hawaii’s severe, generations-long housing shortage. Various topics are presented by experts from around the world. Click here to register for free.
AUG 12 : Senate Special Committee on Accountability – Procurement and contracting procedures of the Department of Education : 1:00 – 3:00 pm
The agenda and meeting information has not been posted yet, but you can go to capitol.hawaii.gov to check for updates.
AUG 13: ‘Cleaning & Disinfecting in a COVID-19 World, What You Should Know,’ 9:00 – 9:45am HST
Do you know how to properly clean and disinfect your home? Learn about disinfectant products on the market and their proper applications to maximize their effectiveness and how to protect your home from harmful germs. Featured Speaker: Kelley O’Leary, RN, MSN, CIC, Infection Preventionist, Hawaii Department of Health. Register here.
WEEKEND WAYSIDES
Aug. 7: Kakaako Farmer’s Market at Ward Village, 8:00am – 12:00pm
Every Saturday from 8am – 12am, Kakaako Farmers Market at Ward Village brings the abundance of the country into the heart of Honolulu. Shop for fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables sourced from Hawaii farms or get delicious treats and eats from the numerous food vendors. As a bonus, meet the legislators who represent the Kakaako district, Senator Sharon Moriwaki and Representative Scott Saiki. Tell them your concerns and discuss solutions. Ask for that goodie bag of useful info they are hiding behind the table 😊. Find out more about Kakaako Farmers Market, and all the goodies it has to offer too, here
Aug. 7: Hawaii Symphony Orchestra Features the Music of Queen at the Hawaii Theatre, 7:30pm
Windborne Music presents a double shot of British rock. Enjoy “Stairway to Heaven,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and more, complete with a laser light show. One night only, this is a popular event so grab your tickets soon. Click here for tickets.
Aug. 7-8: Waikiki Artfest at Kapiolani Park, 9:00am – 4:00pm
Every year, the Waikiki Artfest serves as a huge platform for all Hawaiian artists who display their hand-crafted products at Kapiolani Park. Items on sale range from jewelry, clothing, and handbags, to quilts, soap and candles. Guests are also treated to a delicious meal and live music. Admission is free. For more info., click here
Aug. 8: The 39th Annual Slack Key Guitar Festival Waikiki Style, 12:00-3:30pm (Doors open 11:00am)
Blue Note Hawaii will be jamming once again with the guitar sounds of Ledward Kaapana, Jeff Peterson, George Kuo, Kawika Kahiapo, Danny Carvalho, Kamuela Kahoano, Nathan Aweau, Dwight Kanae, Ian OSullivan & LT Smooth. Cost is $15. All ages welcome. Come to Blue Note at 2335 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815 and experience Waikiki with a pluck and a twang of a guitar. Click here to view videos and grab your tickets.
Kakaako United Citizen Patrol on Monday led by Officer Tani Takushi and Officer Ed Ho and joined by new recruits for the Art Loft Citizen Patrol. If interested in joining the Art Loft Citizen Patrol, please contact Coordinator Lindsay Pacheco atpachecol@hawaii.edu
Congratulations to Olympic Gold Medalist and Honolulu Native Carissa Moore
This week, Carissa Moore, who grew up surfing with her father off Waikiki Beach as early as five years old, became the first Olympic women’s surfing champion bringing the gold home to Hawaii. Congratulations to Carissa Moore on this historic accomplishment celebrated by the entire community!
Carissa Moore, of the United States, celebrates winning the gold medal of the women’s surfing competition at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Tsurigasaki beach in Ichinomiya, Japan. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco). (SOURCE: foxnews.com)
Low-Income Micro Units Rise in the Heart of Kakaako
Developers have transformed a small surface parking lot leased from the Hawaii Community Development Authority, into a beautiful apartment building—Nohona Hale. Located at 630 Cooke Street, the 16-story Nohona Hale features 111 studio apartments with their own private lanais for residents earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income. The $52.7 million development, which opened in February 2020, also boasts green features, including solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal water heating, LED lighting, and low-flow water fixtures. The developers of the project are EAH Housing and New York-based Bronx Pro Group.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Experts Update Legislators on Hawaii’s Economy and Medical State: AUG. 2, 10:00am
What are our medical leaders doing about the recent spike in covid cases? What is the state of Hawaii’s economy now? What is our next step? These questions will be addressed before the House Committee on COVID-19 Economic & Financial Preparedness who will hear reports from:
Dr. Carl Bonham, Executive Director, UH Economic Research Organization (UHERO)
Dr. Jill Hogard Green, President & CEO, Queen’s Health Systems
Dr. Mark Mugiishi, President & CEO, HMSA
Ray Vara, CEO, Hawaii Pacific Health
For questions, call 586-6100. To view the livestreamed event, find the link on the agenda here.
Attend Pedestrian Safety Event: AUG. 3, 6:00 – 7:00pm
Pedestrian safety will be a high priority for watchdogs as school begins next week. Join HPD and safety organizers in promoting safe driving pedestrian awareness on the roads. Signs will be provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and your smile!
Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) Meetings: AUG. 4
Kakaako Business: 9:15am (Virtual) Topics of discussion:
Funds to Repair the Elevator Curtainwall at the Kauhale Kakaako Parking Garage.
Security Guard Contracts to Kewalo Basin Harbor Diamond Head Parking Area and Kolowalu Park.
Allowing Unit Owners to Obtain a Second Mortgage Under Certain Conditions.
To view, attend, or submit testimony, click on the agenda here.
Kakaako VA Clinic Building Hearing: 11:00am (Virtual)
Topic of discussion: Developer VA Aloha LLC is proposing to build a Department of Veterans Affairs Multi-Specialty Outpatient Clinic on an approximately 415,194 square feet lot.
The proposed VA Clinic consists of a 40ft-high building that will provide space for doctors of different specialties, support staff and equipment.
To view the hearing notice, click on the agenda here
McCully Moiliili Neighborhood Board: AUG. 5, 6:30pm
This neighborhood board meets every 1st Thursday of every month.
Kupuna Caucus Meeting: AUG. 6, 2:00 – 3:00pm
It has come to the attention of the Kupuna Caucus that under Hawaii law, insurance companies can raise rates of long-term care with little regulation. In one example, an insurer that hasn’t raised rates in 20 years notified customers of an increase of 14-15% cumulatively and annually for the next 5 years. It will hit hard our Kupuna on fixed incomes. We’ve invited Insurance Commissioner Colin Hayashida to the next meeting of the Kupuna Caucus to answer questions and concerns.
JULY 31 Soul Journey with Intuitive Painting at Magic Island: 10:00am – 12:00pm
What better way to capture Hawaii’s beauty? Get ready for a hands-on intuitive painting experience full of inspiration and self-expression. This journey begins with a Theta-healing® meditation to connect body, mind and soul, and to expand creative abilities. Cost is $45.13. Click here for tickets and more info.
Discovery Group Dance Class: 1:00 – 1:45pm
Learn some swaggy steps at the Arthur Murray Dance Center of Hawaii at 770 Kapiolani Blvd. Instructors will focus on patterns, footwork, timing & balance, while encouraging you to develop your own personal dancing style. They’ll teach you to navigate the dance floor gracefully, so you can dance around others on a crowded floor without breaking stride. Cost is $15. Click here for tickets and more info.
SALT Summer Nights in Kakaako: 5:00 – 8:00pm
Enjoy local, live music from Mike Tulba & Dayton Watanabe while shopping and supporting local businesses at SALT, a unique shopping center of boutiques, restaurants and cafés located at 691 Auahi Street. Admission is free. For questions, call 808-457-0155. Click here for more info.
AUGUST 1 Sunday Morning Sound Bath at Kapiolani Park: 10:00 – 11:00am
Reconnect with nature and yourself on the Kapiolani Park lawn across from the Waikīkī Aquarium for a sound bath and meditative peace with Sound Healing Hawaii. Listen to chirping birds, leaves rustling in the wind, and the chiming sounds of crystal singing bowls. Bring a towel or blanket and lie down on the grass to connect with earth and focus on your breathing. The event is free. For more info., click here (scroll down to last listing)
Freeze Hawaii in a Bottle, Terrarium, at Kapiolani Park Bandstand: 4:00 – 5:30pm
Are you ready to meet a beautifully botanical activity? A terrarium is a sealable glass container containing soil and plants, and can be opened for maintenance to access the plants inside. Simply, it is a self-sustainable ecosystem. While learning about the carbon, oxygen, and water cycle, make the most original designs you’ve ever created. Cost is $69. The host will bring all the materials. For more info., click here.
