Category: Newsletter

  • Vax, Sports and other news

    Vax, Sports and other news

    October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

    October marks the 18th anniversary of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which aims to raise awareness about cybersecurity and ensure that all Americans have the resources they need to be safe and secure online. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is organized through a partnership between the National Cyber Security Alliance and the Cybersecurity &Infrastructure Security Agency. This year’s theme is a continuation of last year’s: “Do Your Part. #BeCyber­Smart.” It continues to encourage individuals and organizations to take pro­active steps to enhance cybersecurity. Access more information at the Hawaii State Office of Enterprise Technology Services here.

    CONTENTS:

    VACCINATED TRAVELERS, BOOSTER RULES,
    VAX PLAN FOR SCHOOLS, FAN SEATING AT SPORTS EVENTS
    Greenlight on Nov. 1 for Vaccinated Travelers to Hawaii
    With Governor Ige giving the green light for vaccinated visitors and residents to travel to Hawaii starting on November 1, you can expect the airports to get very busy. So how can you get through the airports faster and avoid quarantine? Visit the Safe Travels Hawaii website for reminders on what to do here.

    COVID Booster Rules for Each Vaccine Type
    News is developing so quickly when it comes to COVID-19 booster shots, it can be hard to keep track of what’s happening. Have they been approved? Am I eligible? When can I get one? The answer to those questions depends on which vaccine you receive originally: Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson.
    To view the status of booster shots for each vaccine type approved in the United States, and the rules that determine who can get one, click here.

    Plans for COVID-19 Vaccine at Schools for Age 5-11 Keiki
    The State Department of Health (DOH) is working with partners to make vaccination available in many different venues including schools, pods, pharmacies and in health care providers’ offices. If Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 5 to 11 receive emergency-use authorization, they will be available at public, charter and private schools. More than 100 Hawaii schools would host on-campus vaccination clinics in that case. DOH is waiting for authorization and recommendations from the Federal Drug Administration and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before plans are finalized. States started ordering COVID-19 vaccine doses for the 5-to-11 age group on Oct. 17 but they won’t be delivered unless usage is authorized. The vaccine being reviewed for children ages 5 to 11 is a less potent version of the Pfizer vaccine authorized for people ages 12 and up. Decision-making is expected by early November.

    Fan Seating Back in School Sports; COVID Guidelines in Effect
    Time to paint your face with colors of your favorite local sports team! Fans are now allowed back in the stands for high school and college sports, effective Oct. 20. If you’re planning to attend a game, make sure to purchase tickets in advance because seating is very limited and remember to wear a protective mask. They’re required for outdoor and indoor games. It’s the moment Hawaii sports fans have been waiting for: the chance to cheer on their favorite teams in person. The rules are as follows:

    • Masks are mandatory at in and outdoor venues.
    • For UH, capacity limits are 500 indoors and 1,000 outdoors. High school capacity limits will vary due to venue sizes.
    • Groups sizes are limited to 10 indoors/25 outdoors.
    • A minimum of six feet physical distancing is required between groups.
    • And everyone must show proof of vaccination, so kids 11-years-old and under will not be allowed to attend.
    To buy tickets for high school games, click here.
    To buy tickets for UH games, click here.

    UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATE & PROGRAM FOR NONVIOLENT EMERGENCY CALLS
    Unemployment: Tool to Check if You Qualify for a New Claim
    Use the online Unemployment Benefits Estimator Tool to find out if you qualify for a new claim and how much your weekly benefit amount (WBA) would be. To use the online Benefit Estimator to calculate your weekly benefit amount, click here.

    City launches new program to address nonviolent emergency calls involving the homeless
    The city just launched a new program which will use teams of first responders to address nonviolent emergency calls involving the homeless.  The Crisis Outreach Response and Engagement program (CORE) is a long-awaited initiative that will divert low-level 911 calls to the CORE teams instead of dispatching emergency services that include the Honolulu Fire Department, Honolulu Police Department and Department of Emergency Services.  The new CORE teams comprise three to four EMTs and at least one community health worker who plan to follow up with patients after they are released from the medical service provider to get them placed into some type of housing such as a shelter or transitional housing.

    SUPPLY SHORTAGES & ONLINE SCAMS
    Beware of Online Shopping Scams and Supply Shortages Amid Covid
    Start making those Christmas lists but experts warn those who shop online as supply chain issues and online shopping scams collide with the ongoing pandemic. Watch out for these:
    • Emotions. We tend to go into overdrive about this time of year in our quest to find the best deal. Think with more rationale.
    • Websites that look deceiving.  Just because it has pretty, professional photos doesn’t make it a professional website. It’s really easy to take photos from somebody else’s site and make it look professional.
    • Overly positive reviews. They could be fake. Double check the site you’re thinking of ordering from before clicking ‘purchase.’ To take a Better Business Bureau survey that tests your ability to spot a fake customer review, click here.
    Online Scam Warnings Straight from the BBB
    The Better Business Bureau is urging the public to protect themselves from online scams. According to the bureau’s latest report, illegal online activity has accounted for 35% of scams reported this year. The BBB advises the public to never make a quick purchasing decision and to take time to verify if a website is legitimate. Do your research and understand a lot of websites look real, but they’re fake. Officials said scams can be reported here: https://www.bbb.org/

    START DIALING ‘808’, BLOOD BANK SHORTAGE, TRICK OR TREAT TIPS
    Beginning Oct. 24 Phone Calls in Hawaii Won’t Work Unless You Dial ′808′ First
    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted 988 as a new three-digit number to be used nationwide to reach the National Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis Lifeline starting July 16, 2022. All telecommunications carriers and VoIP service providers are required to take part in the initiative. In order for 988 to work, all service providers must implement mandatory 10-digit local dialing. Therefore, starting October 24, 2021 local calls, including those on the same island, will require that you dial area code 808 + telephone number. For more info, click here.

    Blood Bank of Hawaii Shortage
    The Blood Bank of Hawaii (BBH) is asking folks to roll up their sleeves and donate. They are experiencing a serious shortage of all blood types. The Blood Bank says it needs to secure 150 to 200 daily appointments for all blood types to keep up with Hawaii’s demand, but O-Positive, O-Negative and A-Positive are needed most critically. Those interested in scheduling an appointment should call (808) 848-4770 or click here: https://www.bbh.org/become-donor/

    Safe Trick or Treating Tips

    • Trick-or-treat outdoors in groups of 25 or less would be allowed and any indoor gatherings would have to also follow the current orders in place (groups of 10 or less).
    •  Anyone experiencing COVID-19 related symptoms should stay home.
    • Give out treats outdoors if possible or set up a station with individually bagged treats for keiki to take.
    • Keep in mind that your costume mask is not a substitute for a cloth mask and staying at least 6 feet away from others who do not live with you helps to stop the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.
    • Incorporate a cloth or surgical mask into your costume that covers both your nose and your mouth. A costume mask is not a suitable substitute.
    • Choose bright colors and flame-retardant materials. Add reflective tape to costumes or treat bags if families plan to be out after dark.
    • Trick-or-treat in small groups outdoors and enjoy other activities. Avoid crowded indoor parties.
    • Parents should examine treats and ensure that children wash hands before consuming candy.
    • Get vaccinated: Adults and children age 12 and older should get a COVID-19 vaccine, and everyone six months and older should get a flu shot.
    DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
    Centennial Park Waikiki – Free Covid Vaccinations on Halloween

    Moiliili Community Center Jobs Available Now
    These jobs are ready to be filled:

    • Japanese Language School Teachers
    • Part-Time CDL Driver
    • Program Aides
    • Part-Time Coordinator Trainer
    • Part-Time Site Coordinator
    • Part-Time Van Driver
    • Recreational Leaders

    To schedule an interview, call (808) 955-1555 or visit https://www.moiliilicc.org/

    MARK YOUR CALENDARS

    Oct. 26: Ala Moana-Kakaako Neighborhood Board, 6pm
    Topics of discussion include the following:

    • 932 Ward Avenue Renovation – Sherman Wong and Kauʻi Arce, Liliuokalani Trust [6:15 p.m.]
    • Ward Village Update – Kaiulani Sodaro, The Howard Hughes Corporation [6:25 p.m.]
    • Straub Plan Review Use Updates – Isaiah Sato, R.M. Towill Corporation [6:35 p.m.]
    • Keeaumoku Complete Streets Project Public Meeting – Franz Kraintz, City and County of Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting [6:45 p.m.]
    • Discuss City and State Reapportionment Plans
    • Community Noise Issues around 1221 Kapiolani Boulevard 8. Residents’ and Community Concerns ([7:15 p.m.]
    • Mother Waldron Park Lighting
    • Community Noise Issues around 956 Kawaiahao Street

    For links to participate, view, or submit testimony, click on the agenda here.

    Oct. 27 – Oct. 29: Senate Special Session Considers 6 Judicial Appointments
    The Hawaii State Senate will convene a special session for the purpose of reviewing the judicial appointments of the following:

    • Clarissa Y. Malinao, Kevin T. Morikone, Shanlyn A.S. Park to the First Circuit Court – Oahu,
    • Kirstin M. Hamman to the Second Circuit Court – Maui
    • Wendy M. DeWeese and Kimberly B.M. Taniyama to the Third Circuit Court – Hawaii Island.

    The process will begin with a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, chaired by Senator Karl Rhoads on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. The Senate will convene in a floor session on Thursday, October 28 at 10:00 a.m. This will be followed by a separate decision-making meeting of the Judiciary Committee at 10:30 a.m. Final Senate votes on the appointments are expected on Friday, October 29 at 11:00 a.m. View the hearing notice here.  Members of the public who wish to testify via videoconference should use the Legislature’s website (www.capitol.hawaii.gov) to submit their written testimony and select “yes” when asked if they will be testifying remotely for the hearing. Written testimony is required to participate via videoconference and must be submitted at least 24 hours before the hearing.

    WEEKEND WAYSIDES

    Oct. 22 – 24: Honolulu Pumpkin Festival at Ala Moana Center, 6-10pm
    Honolulu Pumpkin Festival is a family-friendly pumpkin patch experience taking place at Ala Moana Center this October! Enjoy farm-fresh pumpkins, Halloween-inspired delights, lots of photo opportunities, nightly trick-or-treating and more!  Find out more here.

    Oct.23: Young at Heart Expo at Convention Center, 9am-5pm
    Young at Heart is a free event offering lifestyle-improving tips aimed at those 50 and older in Hawaii, featuring the latest in healthy living, financial planning and leisure in your later years. The event is FREE to attend. Register here.

    Oct.24: Hawaii Craftsmen Annual Statewide Exhibition 2021, 11am-6pm
    The Hawaii Craftsmen Annual Statewide Exhibition features over 100 examples of the finest traditional and contemporary craft from across the state of Hawaii. The very best work is selected from each island and included in the exhibition. Learn more here.

    Take care & stay safe!

  • Booster Shots, DOE Guidance, Halloween Safety

    Booster Shots, DOE Guidance, Halloween Safety

    Domestic Violence Awareness Month 
    October 2021

    October is national Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) – a chance to educate the public domestic violence and its deadly consequences. Experts say it is on the rise in Hawaii. The Hawaii-based Domestic Violence Action Center (DVAC) saw a spike in calls in 2020 during the pandemic and they are already seeing a similar pattern in 2021; from February of 2020 to 2021, DVAC hotline calls jumped by 188%. In April, numbers rose by 38%. Learn more below. Connect to more information on:

    • RESOURCES: safety plans, court accompaniment, legal help and representation can be found here.
    • EVENTS: Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2021 activities can be found here.
    • PHONE/TEXT: Talk to someone by calling the Oahu Helpline at (808) 531-3771 or text (605) 956-5680.

    CONTENTS:

    MODERNA BOOSTER, RESTRICTIONS LOOSENED,
    DOE COVID GUIDANCE UPDATE, TRICK OR TREATING DURING PANDEMIC

    FDA Approves Half-Dose Moderna Booster
    More options for booster shots are on the way as an FDA panel just endorsed third doses of the Moderna vaccine. Those in high-risk groups who received Moderna’s vaccine should get a half-dose booster to increase immunity. If the FDA gives emergency use authorization to Moderna boosters, the CDC will meet to give it final approval. To date, only Hawaii Pacific Health, Queen’s, and Kaiser will provide Moderna boosters once it gets the green light. If you are interested in getting a Moderna booster, it’s best to contact the facility where you got your original.

    Honolulu Loosens Event Restrictions Beginning Next Week
    As officials acknowledge the recent decline of Covid-19 cases, the City and County of Honolulu is loosening certain Covid restrictions. On Oct. 20, up to 500 attendees can attend indoor seated entertainment venues. Outdoor interactive events — including weddings and funerals if held outdoors — will be permitted to increase capacity to 50%, with a maximum of 150 attendees, whichever is smaller. All attendees must be vaccinated. Employees working at any of these events or venues will not be required to be vaccinated, but those who do not have proof of vaccination must follow Safe Access Oahu testing protocols. Bars will also be allowed to serve alcohol until midnight. The statewide indoor mask mandate, gathering restrictions. Limiting to 10 indoors and 25 outdoors, and the State Safe Travels program will remain in place.

    Updated Summary Guidance for Hawaii Schools
    The DOH response to the pandemic continues to evolve as new information becomes available daily. Encourage your family, friends, and coworkers to share the following useful school covid guidance updates, here.

    Is it Safe to Trick or Treat This Year?
    Last year the CDC cancelled Halloween. What about this year? According to the CDC, trick-or-treating outdoors in small groups should be safe for most children. If you’re able to be outdoors, absolutely. Limit crowds. It’s not advised to go to a crowded Halloween party. To be safe, follow CDC updates at cdc.gov.

    SMALL BUSINESS PANDEMIC RELIEF,
    NONPROFIT RELIEF, SHIPPING DELAYS

    Hawaii Small Businesses Urged to Apply for Federal Pandemic Relief
    If you’re a struggling small business owner, more help is available. The Small Business Administration is urging you to apply for the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). Businesses, including agricultural and nonprofits can apply for up to $2 million in funds that can go toward operating expenses, including payroll, rent/mortgage, utilities, and other ordinary business expenses, and to pay business debt incurred at any time. Applications are being accepted now. Please note that these loans have to be distributed by the end of the year. Learn more about eligibility or to apply, click here.

    Grant-in-Aid Applications Now Available for Oahu Nonprofits
    And here’s even more help available: The City has reopened applications to Oahu nonprofits for Grant-in-Aid (GIA) funding for fiscal year 2023. The City’s GIA fund, which is administered by the Department of Community Services, was established to serve economically and socially disadvantaged populations or to provide services for public benefit in arts, culture, economic development, or the environment. In fiscal year 2022, more than $8.8 million in GIA funds was awarded to 63 organizations. GIA proposals must be submitted to the Division of Purchasing by 2 p.m. on Nov. 23. For more information contact: bfspurchasing@honolulu.gov Interested agencies can learn more here.

    Brace for Holiday Shipping Delays Due to Postal Changes & Mainland Port Backlog
    The pandemic has undoubtedly affected the purchasing power of many. Because economies around the world are coming back online and consumer demand is skyrocketing ahead of the holiday season, officials are warning of possible shipping delays as ports on the mainland deal with a backlog and the U.S. Postal Service undergoes change. The backlog will likely affect your holiday shopping and shipping.  Local Hawaii retailers recommend buying items like holiday decorations and Christmas trees as early as you can this year. Changes are also happening at the U.S. Postal Service —for first-class mail sent within the continental United States (but not for intra-Hawaii delivery), delivery times will increase from the current one to three days to one to five days.

    DISTRICT HAPPENINGS
    Centennial Park Vaccination Clinic (Last Weekend)
    Waikiki and Kakaako residents were able to get free vaccinations at Waikiki Centennial Park thanks to the work of the Hawaii Pacific Health and the Hawaii Department of Health.  Representative Tam, Councilmember Waters, and Senator Moriwaki greeted residents who came to get their vaccine.  Mahalo to all!  For more information on vaccine clinics on Oahu and mobile vaccine clinics, visit the Hawaii Pacific Health website here.

    ‘The Rock’ Donates Gear to Alma Mater McKinley High School
    Mega-Star celebrity, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, is remembering his humble roots by giving back to his former high school football team at McKinley High. Johnson is partnering with Under Armour on a new line called “Project Rock” and is giving the performance gear to McKinley, to say thank you. He said, “My family was evicted from Hawaii and forced to move to Pennsylvania. Times were tougher back then, but I will always be grateful to McKinley High … for the invaluable lessons of life I was taught. A pleasure to give back.” Mahalo nui loa!

    HALLOWEEN EVENTS IN THE DISTRICT 

    Although large parties, door-to-door trick-or-treating or close contact events are not what they used to be pre-pandemic, there are still many COVID-friendly and safe Halloween activities in the district. Below are some of the activities that both keiki and adults can enjoy — or get spooked by — to celebrate the 2021 Halloween season:

    Oct. 16 & Oct. 23: Haunted Honolulu Ghost Tour, 5pm

    This 2-hour walking tour explores old buildings in Downtown Honolulu. Visit the eeriest of Honolulu’s haunts and hear accounts of people who’ve experienced strange events in the area that was once the seat of Royalty. Tickets are $40/person. Buy them here.
    Now Thru Oct. 23: Royal Hawaiian Center Virtual Keiki Costume Contest (Virtual)
    Start uploading those spooky photos now. Royal Hawaiian Center’s annual Halloween keiki costume contest will be going virtual to keep families safe amid the pandemic. Infant and 10-year-old keiki — and even parents — can participate in several categories to win spook-tacular prizes. Participants can upload photos at the link below. Deadline to submit is Saturday, October 23, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be announced on Sunday, October 31, 2021. Contest open to Oahu residents only. For more info, click here.
    Oct. 24: Ghost stories for ‘Kaka’akoween’, 7-8pm (Virtual)
    SALT at our Kaka’ako will be hosting a virtual zoom featuring Lopaka Kapanui of Mysteries of Hawaii. He will be telling local ghost stories for free from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 24. To register, click here.

    Oct. 29-31: Spooktacular Halloween at International Market Place
    Celebrate Halloween at International Market Place in the heart of Waikīkī for fa-boo-lous family-friendly fun or join the festivities online with the center’s virtual keiki costume contest. Learn more here.

    Oct. 31: Get “Bitten!” by Elevations Halloween Show at Blue Note Waikīkī
    Get ready to get “Bitten!” this Halloween season with a very special set of Halloween music. Vampires will be lurking in every corner feel safe to dress out and celebrate before the dreaded sun comes out. Discount: 15% with a Hawaii or military ID. Note: $10 Food or Beverage Minimum Per Person in addition to ticket price. Full Bar & Full Dinner Menu Available. Two shows. Get tickets here.

    Oct. 31: Trick-or-Treat and Costume Contests at SALT at our Kakaako, 1-4pm
    Take your entire family, including your furry members, and dress-up to trick-or-treat at SALT at our Kaka’ako between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Halloween. Participants should look for signs in front of participating businesses. Keiki and pets can also be entered in a costume contest by posting a photo on IG and tagging @saltourkakaako. For more info, visit here.

    MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
    Oct. 16: Recycled Waste Drive-Thru Drop-Off, 9am-11:30am
    Important to get uncluttered and help the cause to recycle and to be more sustainable – all for the benefit of. ourselves and community. You have the chance with support from the YMCA of Honolulu accepting your unwanted electronic and other equipment:

    Oct. 17:  Susan G. Komen Race for Breast Cancer Cure (Virtual)
    Help in the fight against breast cancer by participating in the 5K run/walk. The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® Series raises significant funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer, celebrates breast cancer survivorship and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. Join in on helping a great cause! Register here.

    Oct 18:  Webinar ‘After an Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19, 2-3pm
    Tune in to an informational webinar by the Department of Health’s Peter Oshiro, Food Safety Branch Manager.
    Erina Namihara, Epidemiological Specialist and COVID-19 Investigator, Hawaii State Department of Health (Disease Investigation Branch). Register here to receive Zoom Link.

    Oct. 23:  Free Educational Webinar for Condo Owners, 9am-12pm
    The Real Estate Commission and the Community Associations Institute Hawaii Chapter are holding a free webinar educational event on the “Fundamentals of Successfully Operating an Association.” It is open to the public and runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 23, 2021. The webinar will cover condo association finances, contracting, board liability, rule-making, association insurance, and unit modifications. Registration for the event is available online here: https://www.caihawaii.org/ For more information, call the Real Estate Branch at 808-586-2644 or visit http://cca.hawaii.gov/reb/condogov/.

    WEEKEND WAYSIDES
    Oct. 17:  Joyful Return Exhibit at Honolulu Museum of Art, times vary
    Create colorful painted rocks to place in the Regrow Garden or to take your creation home. Register for one of three classes: 11 a.m.; 12 p.m.;1 p.m.  Be a part of the fun by participating in the different pop-up installations! Learn more here.

    Take care & stay safe!