Author: admin

  • Father’s Day weekend

    Father’s Day weekend

    Aloha Neighbor,

    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.

  • Park playgrounds open, Small business safety net, Makiki Neighborhood Board

    Park playgrounds open, Small business safety net, Makiki Neighborhood Board

    Aloha Neighbor,

    As Summer blossoms, Hawaii blossoms in more meaningful ways: the reopening of major social activities, an opportunity for small businesses to flourish, and people to use more outdoor facilities.

    CITY PLAYGROUNDS AND EXERCISE EQUIPMENT OPEN FRIDAY
    The phased reopening of park facilities continues with the reopening of City park playgrounds and outdoor exercise equipment this Friday, June 19.  But take precautions: the City is not regularly sanitizing the equipment so the City recommends that you sanitize your hands before and after using the park equipment. You should also practice physical distancing and use facial covering. Stay healthy and be considerate of your neighbors!

    MORE RELIEF FUNDING FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
    In the wake of the permanent closing of some businesses, the city is adding $25 million more into its Small Business Relief & Recovery Fund for those who are continuing to keep afloat. These federal CARES Act funding that are to help deal with the COVID-19 emergency and can help businesses pay for rent, utilities, payroll and physical distancing and safety costs.  Apply for these grants through the City’s four partner credit unions – Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union, Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, Hawaii USA Federal Credit Union, and Honolulu Federal Credit Union.  For information on the program qualifications and required information for application go to: https://www.oneoahu.org/small-business. 

    MAKIKI NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD MEETS TODAY
    The board meets at Makiki District Park Thursday, June 18, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.  Click here for the agenda.

    Take care and stay healthy!