The National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City commemorates the September 11, 2001 attacks, which killed 2,977 people. The memorial is located at the World Trade Center site, the former location of the Twin Towers that were destroyed during the September 11 attacks. We remember the lives of those who sacrificed so much for so many.
The Day the Towers Fell
A sad day for America, as rejoicing rang from hell
Waking a mighty giant, the day the towers fell
Our hearts were saddened, as we watched this vicious act unfold
As innocence met a fiery death, and seeds of war were sowed…
America just sort of glides along, so don’t step on her toes
For her belief in right and justice, will stomp out freedom’s foes.
BUSINESSES TO REQUIRE PROOF OF VAX, VACCINE GOES DIGITAL,
MEDICAL WORKERS GET A BREAK
‘Safe Access Oahu’ Program Activates Next Week
Next week Monday, Sept. 13, workers and customers at gyms, restaurants and movie theaters will be required to show proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID test under the Safe Access Oahu program where certain businesses will be required to create their own guidelines to verify the vaccination status of employees and customers. The only vaccination exemption will be a negative COVID test taken 48 hours prior for customers and weekly testing for employees. However, restaurants operating without dine-in seating are not required to follow safe access rules. The city is working on additional programs to support businesses with expenses connected to COVID mitigation, but for now they are advised to keep track of the costs. The employer will have to pay the cost of the test and will have to pay for the time. It is recommended that employers be clear about their guidelines. Employers are advised to tell their employees that if they don’t comply with your vaccine policy, that you are going to put them on leave, and will be reinstated once they get vaccinated, unless or until you find somebody to replace them. The City’s Office of Economic Revitalization hosted an informational webinar where many questions were asked by business owners and community members. The recorded webinar can be found here.
Digital Vaccine Verification Launches
Is your vax card crinkling at the corners? Hopefully the data is still legible so you can capture what’s left of its crispy look via the Hawaii Smart Health Card which hopes to bring a new, simple way to provide vaccine verification by going digital. This is just before many businesses require proof of vaccination. Starting Friday, Sept. 10, those vaccinated in Hawaii will be able to upload a photo of their card to the Hawaii Smart Health Card section of the Safe Travels website which can be found here. Once verified, they will get a QR code on their phone to show a restaurant or gym to prove they are vaccinated. Anyone with a smartphone would be able to pre-verify their status, eliminating the need to carry around a hard copy. Businesses can also download the Smart Health Card Verifier app to scan the QR code for verification. It only works for those in Hawaii’s database. Verification for visitors is limited to those from states using the national standard. Any restaurant that is looking at verifying Hawaii vaccinations will also probably be able to verify California and New York vaccinations as they use the SMART Health Card standard. The program is voluntary — people can still use their physical vaccination card or other acceptable test documents. The state is hoping to expand the platform to include negative COVID results soon. Beginning Monday, Sept. 13, customers will need to show their vaccination card (or a photo of it) at the door or a negative COVID test results within the last 48 hours to get into certain businesses as part of the Safe Access Oahu program. They will also be able to use their SMART Health Cards. Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said it is the best way to avoid another lockdown and warned that businesses will be fined if they do not comply.
Hotels for Healthcare Heroes’ Program Provides Staycations for Medical Workers
Thank you, frontline medics! The recent slow-down in tourism has left many hotels with empty rooms. Now, dozens of properties are offering free staycations to Hawaii’s worn-out frontline medical workers. The program is called “Hotels for Healthcare Heroes” and was launched by the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association. It will start on Sept. 17 and will run every weekend through the end of October. A similar initiative was launched last year using state funding, but this time around, participating hotels are footing the bill. More than 50 hotels across the state have signed up to donate free two-night staycations on Fridays and Saturdays to Hawaii doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff. The hospital and clinics will provide a list and then we will take that list and basically match them up with a hotel or resort on that island. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been more than 3,500 COVID hospitalizations and 633 deaths. Many healthcare employees have been working longer hours, extra shifts and holidays to continue providing care. This initiative comes at a time when Hawaii’s hotel industry is still hurting. The recent drop in visitors has led to the cancellation of tens of thousands of room nights.
City’s Airport Mobile Lab to Offer Free Antigen Tests on Oahu Starting Sept. 13
The City will be providing free point-of-care antigen tests to Oahu residents at the City’s Mobile Lab at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport starting next week Monday, Sept. 13. Antigen tests are commonly used in the diagnosis of respiratory viruses. They can identify SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that leads to COVID-19 and has a 88.4% sensitivity and 100% specificity rate. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for its use. Antigen test will be accepted for employees who qualified for a medical or religious exemption from the City’s vaccination requirement. Residents must bring a valid state ID and pre-register under the City pre-paid section at https://oahucitypass.lumisight.com/
No walk-ins will be accepted at the airport testing site.
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 holidays.
For more info. on this testing program, please call (833) 560-0997 or email covidresponse@kidneyhi.org or visit https://kidneyhi.org/covid-19-testing-screening
Antibody Treatments Are Another Tool to Combat Covid Infection
The antibody treatments are for those who just tested positive for COVID-19. Also called “monoclonal antibody treatments,” they help the infected body make antibodies for itself and reduce the risk of hospitalization. Hospitals are working to expand access to monoclonal antibody treatments. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization for mild to moderate COVID illness in adults and children 12 and up to keep high-risk patients out of hospitals. Hawaii Pacific Health facilities have treated 300 patients with monoclonal antibodies since November 2020, and 200 of those treatments have taken place since late July 2021. The ER tent outside of the Kaiser Permanente Moanalua location is being used for the antibody treatment. The Healthcare Association of Hawaii said it is aware of 12 sites across the state providing the treatment. Doctors said treatment should be given early, within five days from testing positive for the virus. It is a one-time treatment, either through IV or a short needle injection just under the skin.
HOMELESS VACCINATIONS, FLU VS. VAX SHOTS, COVID COUNSELING
Can a Homeless Person Without an ID Receive the COVID Vaccine?
If you’re one of the empathetic wondering how the homeless are faring in our race to get as many people vaccinated as possible, thank you for your concern. Actually, many homeless do want the vaccine, but have been denied because they have no valid ID due to robbery or muggings. Fortunately, there are places for them to go to get vaccinated. DOH works in partnership with organizations, such as Project Vision Hawaii or the University of Hawaii’s HOME Project, to provide COVID-19 vaccinations for unsheltered individuals who are unable to provide proof of government-issued photo identification. If you would like to provide vaccine assistance to an unsheltered individual, contact Project Vision Hawaii directly at 808-201-3937 or visit https://hawaiicovid19.com/ The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that the lack of a government- issued ID should not prevent COVID-19 vaccination.
Can You Get the COVID-19 Vaccine and Flu Shot on the Same Day?
The CDC says yes. Initially, the CDC had advised that COVID-19 vaccines be administered alone, at least 14 days before or after other vaccines. The guidance changed not due to any known safety or immune response concerns but out of “an abundance of caution.” The CDC recommends that everyone eligible for COVID-19 immunization be vaccinated as soon as possible. Read more here. As for the flu shot specifically, the CDC recommends annual influenza vaccination for people ages 6 months and older, unless they have contraindications. Ideally, nonpregnant adults should receive the flu shot by the end of October, but no earlier than Sept. 1, the health agency says, to maximize protection during the worst of flu season. Read more here.
Free, Anonymous COVID Counseling
Have you or your loved ones been impacted by the pandemic? Ku Makani by Hawaii Cares offers free, anonymous counseling and connections to local support and resources. This Hawaii initiative works to support individuals and communities who have felt the effects of COVID-19 and promote resilience, recovery, and empowerment. For more information visit their website at http://www.kumakani.org or call 1-800-753-6879 for counseling services.
DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
Alohilani Hotel in Waikiki to Implement Mandatory Vaccination Policy
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach announced on Wednesday it will be the first hotel in the state to require proof of full vaccination for all employees, guests, and patrons effective October 15. The hotel will be developing a portal and sending out new confirmations to its guests and travel partners where they can upload a copy of their vaccination passport to their reservation. Once the guest arrives, the hotel will have new keys which will mean that their vaccine passport has been checked. Once at the hotel they just have to show their new keys. At least 80-percent of the staff are already vaccinated and its goal is to reach 100-percent.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Sept. 11: Blood Bank of Hawaii to Host Blood Drive at Ala Moana Center, 9am – 3pm
Ala Moana Center and the Blood Bank of Hawaii will be hosting a blood drive on Saturday, Sept. 11. The blood drive will be located on Street Level 1 in the Diamond Head Wing, next to Goma Tei. It will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Blood Bank of Hawaii is in need of all blood types due to the rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations. People who want to donate blood can call (808) 848-4770 or schedule an appointment online here.
Sept. 11: Free Mobile Vaccine Clinic at Ala Moana Center, 11am – 4pm
Ala Moana Center, in partnership with Hawai’i Pacific Health (HPH) is hosting a COVID-19 mobile vaccine clinic on Saturday, Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. HPH’s COVID-19 Vax Squad will be located in the Ala Moana Center Kona Street Depot, according to Ala Moana Center. Individuals interested, are advised to schedule an appointment by calling 808-462-5460 or at HawaiiPacificHealth.org/COVIDVaxSquad Walk-ins are welcomed. HPH will provide the Pfizer vaccine for ages 12 and over, the Moderna vaccine for ages 18 and over, and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for ages 18 and over. All vaccines are free to the public. No insurance is needed. There will also be third doses of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine available for immunocompromised individuals. The entrance to the mobile vaccine clinic will be at 1555 Kona Street, in front of the Sears Appliance and Mattress Showroom.
Sept. 10 – Sept. 24: Live Hawaiian Music by Hui Mele at Kani Ka Pila Grille, 6-8pm
Hui Mele plays music from groups like Haleakala, Surfers, Alii’s, Makaha Sons, Peter Moon, and more. Kani Ka Pila Grille celebrates the local tradition of “kanikapila” (“let’s play music!” in Hawaiian). Named after the famous backyard jam sessions of the legendary Pahinui family, masters of Hawaiian slack-key guitar, the venue continues this tradition featuring award-winning contemporary musical performers with the comfort of ono (“delicious”) food and company. Listen to the sounds of Hui Mele, Poolside at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, 6 PM – 8 PM. For more info., click here.
Sept. 11 – Sept. 12: The Waikiki Artfest at Kapiolani Park, 9am-4pm
The Waikiki Artfest will be hosting approximately 50 fine artists and handcraft artisan days. Located in Kapiolani Park at the diamond Head end of Waikiki, all pieces displayed are for sale and are handmade by the artist/artisan who is present. The event includes casual Hawaiian music and great shave ice for your enjoyment as well. Celebrate the Arts of Hawaii. For more info, click here.
Sept 11 – Nov 14: Island Crafter’s Market at the International Marketplace, 11am-5pm
Browse dozens of locally made products such as apparel, candles, laser etched home goods, papala (hala tree leaves), hand sewn totes, baby items and Hawaii’s favorite local snacks too! Located on the second level of the International Marketplace, right next to Mitsuwa’s Marketplace, you’ll find 3 inline spaces filled with Hawaii’s favorites! Just look for the balloon arches! Visit all three, get your event passport stamped and enter to win prizes! For more info., call 808-689-9091, email islandcraftfairs@gmail.com or click here.
Sept.12 – Dec.26: Waikiki Crafters’ Market at Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, 10am-4pm
Our island’s favorite vendors pop up twice a month at the Royal Hawaiian Center with their companies’ best products for local residents, national and international tourists. Support local small business vendors who will feature a wide array of local snacks and goodies including poi mochi, handmade jewelry and crafts with local themes, souvenirs, and other products showcasing the beauty of the islands. Meet the artists, have a custom keepsake piece made just for you (sunrise shells found only on certain Hawaiian beaches, custom jewelry, artwork). For more info., call (808) 479-5525 or click here.
