Tag: hawaii state,oahu,honolulu,senator district 12,sharon moriwaki

  • COVID recovery, legislation, meetings, happenings

    COVID recovery, legislation, meetings, happenings

    Governor Announces Updated Travel/Gathering Guidelines

    “We anticipate that on or about July 8, Hawaii will have achieved a 60% vaccination rate.  Our residents have sacrificed and worked hard to get to this point, but we still have more to do.  Please get vaccinated to protect yourselves and your loved ones. We are close to achieving a 70% vaccination rate,
    at which point all restrictions will end and we can return to the lives we remember.”

    ~ Governor David Ige

    VACCINE, LEGISLATION & NOMINATION

    Hawaii Allows Vaccinated Mainlanders to Bypass Pre-travel Test and Quarantine
    Hawaii will now accept vaccination records from other states. Finally! Fully vaccinated travelers won’t have to be tested for Covid-19 before coming to Hawaii and will not have to quarantine either, starting July 8. Travelers must still bring a hard copy of their vaccination card if they’re heading to Hawaii. Those arriving in the islands prior to July 8 will still be subject to the pre-travel and quarantine requirements. Also effective on July 8, social gatherings will increase to 25 indoors and 75 outdoors statewide. This includes restaurants, which means they can increase up to 75% capacity. However, the 6-foot distance requirement between tables must still be enforced. While this is an important milestone to celebrate, there is still concerned about the spread of variants in the community. Meanwhile the State forges ahead with the goal of getting at least 70% of Hawaii’s population vaccinated. All COVID-19-related emergency restrictions will then be dropped, including the Safe Travels program.

    Can’t find your vaccination card?
    Just get another one! Learn how here.
    UPDATE ON LEGISLATION
    Bills Becoming Law; 28 Bills on the Governor’s “Intend to Veto” List Await Final Decision on July 6

    Bills Signed into Law: Environmental Protection
    This is a momentous day for clean energy. With 25% of fossil fuel use based in ground transportation, our 100% clean energy goal requires us to rein in fossil fuel emissions. These bills are significant because they send a message to the community and to the market that Hawaii is serious about clean energy. Our Government Operations committees in the Senate and the House carried these bills that use our state government purchasing power to lead by example:

    • HB424 directs all state employees who travel to rent zero emission vehicles.
    • HB552, beginning next January, directs the state to purchase/lease zero emission vehicles.
    • HB1142 dedicates funds from the barrel tax to reinvigorate the rebate program for installation of EV charging stations.

    A pivotal day for clean transportation and clean energy with Hawaii leading the way. (Above) Governor Ige bill signing at Central Middle School with Representatives Adrian Tam, Tina Wildberger, Nicole Lowen, Senator Joy San Buenaventura, state officials, and stakeholders.  Electric school bus depicted.

    Support for Women and Children’s Health & Safety
    The Governor also signed into a law HB887 which adds tools for law enforcement to prosecute sex trafficking crimes, in addition to SB828 which specifies that if you can start a divorce in Hawaii, then you can finish it here. This measure helps people who must move before the case is done, an issue for domestic violence victims, as well as the military community.  Mahalo to the Women’s Legislative Caucus and all the advocates who worked hard to get these bills signed into law to ensure women and child across the state have increased protections when needed.

    Governor Releases Intent to Veto List
    Some measures that squeezed out of the tightly deadlined 2021 legislative session may go down the tubes unless lawmakers hold a Special Session during the interim to override Governor Ige’s vetoes. Governor David Ige has just released his “Intent to Veto” list, singling out bills that state legislators recently passed. Some measures on the list are a bill that overhauls the transient accommodations tax, a bill that would reduce reporting requirements for certain types of communications or political advertisements as well as a number of bills that seek to manage the department of education. A complete list of bills on the veto list can be found here.  If any of these are important to you, contact the Governor’s office and make your voices heard.

    Kokua Council Hosts Legislative Review
    This past legislative session was like no other. The Kokua Council will recap the 2021 legislative session on June 28, 2021, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm via Zoom. Lawmakers will review their legislative experiences, summarize their accomplishments, misses, and defeats. Some controversial measures will be discussed, including the minimum wage, the state’s lagging digital transformation, unemployment benefits, crime and public safety, oversight of committees and agencies, public lands, the statewide travel program, tourism, and the growing distrust in government. Because the State Capitol building was closed to the public this past session, hearings were held via zoom which, although gave constituents the same opportunity as advocates to speak their minds, the meetings lacked the passion and energy that once captivated a live, conference-room audience. Watch the livestreamed program here at the scheduled time.  The full video will be uploaded to the Kokua Council’s YouTube page and distributed via social media.

    KEIKI SUMMER MEALS & BUS CARD

    Kaukau 4 Keiki Appealing to Community Due to Overwhelming Demand for Summer Meals
    A local program feeding keiki in need around the state is asking the public for help. The public-private partnership, Kaukau 4 Keiki, provides breakfast and lunch meal kits weekly to children 18 and younger in rural communities throughout the islands. Now, they’re asking the public for cash donations to fulfill “an overwhelming need for summer meals.” Families located in zip codes starting with “967” can sign up to receive a meal box for their keiki online, or by calling 2-1-1 if they do not have access to the internet. However, because funding is extremely limited, applications are no longer being accepted in certain areas, while others have started waitlists. The program relies on support from the community and says families could wait weeks or longer for meals without the financial backing. Click here to make a donation.

    HOLO Card Replaces Bus Pass
    Bussing has never been so techy—until now. Starting July 1, balance protection, access to over a hundred card locations, and autoload features will all be available to you when you get the HOLO Card instead of “TheBus pass”. If you’re 17 years of age and under, fill out the online application here.  For all others, call 768-4656 or click here.  Cash and valid annual passes still accepted.

    OCEAN NOTIFICATIONS, ELECTRIC BILL & FOOD ASSISTANCE

    State Boating & Ocean Recreation Office (DoBOR) Wants to Inform You
    Are you an active boater, waterman (or waterwoman)? Receive email and text messages about DoBOR plans and activities that affect you and your ocean user group. DoBOR aims to preserve Hawaii’s natural and cultural resources while ensuring public access to State waters and enhancing the ocean experience. Sign up here.

    HECO Past Due Accounts Will Be Auto-Enrolled in Payment Plan
    Hawaiian Electric (HECO) is helping you keep your lights on. Customers who normally would face disconnection for nonpayment will now be automatically enrolled in a 12-month plan. It’s an opportunity for customers to avoid disconnection while also affording them time to apply for financial assistance without having to satisfy a hefty bill. Those who have not contacted HECO about their past due charges, may see higher “current charges” where the first of 12 installments appears. The payment plans, whether auto-enrolled or by customer request, will include the current charges, plus the installment amount. Customers were sent a notice on their bill detailing when the payment plan starts and explaining how the arrangement works, including instructions on how to opt out.  Click here to view payment options, including an 18-month plan.

    State Food & Financial Assistance Programs to Start Processing Renewals on July 1
    The state human services department (DHS) will resume processing benefit renewals for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP; formerly known as Food Stamps) and the Financial Assistance Program (FAP). With SNAP and FAP waivers coming to a close, recipients of these benefits will be required to recertify, or renew, their eligibility annually to receive continued benefits. Households that were scheduled to renew their benefits in March 2020 through June 2021 received renewal extensions. Those affected by this change will receive a notice in the mail when it is time to renew their benefits. Households are now able to complete their renewals and upload required documents here.  Go to the DHS website for more info.

    DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

    Waikiki Citizen Patrols With HPD
    Rep. Adrian Tam and I join the Waikiki Community Policing team, bringing the neighborhood together with our district police officers Stephanie Virardi, Ryan Yamamoto, and Moses Chang to identify and deter crime.  Above (left) on Thursday, Major Mark Cricchio, District 6, came out to thank the Waikiki East patrollers on their weekly patrol; (right) Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Citizen Patrol composed of concerned boaters and liveaboards.  There are now four Waikiki Citizen Patrols every week:

    • Tuesdays, 4:30 pm, “Waikiki Community Center”, meet at 310 Paokalani Ave.
    • Tuesdays, 6:30 pm, “Waikiki West”, meet at Eaton Square entrance.
    • Thursdays, 4:30 pm, “Waikiki East”, meet at Banyan tree near Duke Kahanamoku Statue, Kalakaua Ave.
    • Thursdays, 7:00 pm, “Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor”, meet by Harbormasters office.

    For more information, visit the HPD District 6 Community Policing website.

    Waikiki Aquarium Preps to Reopen on July 1
    Over 3,500 different marine animals, fish and invertebrates await your arrival, as it’s been over a year since guests have walked through the Waikiki Aquarium doors. On Thursday, July 1, you will finally be able to explore everything the historic aquarium has to offer. For the first few weeks at least, the aquarium will be booking reservations online, so book a ticket in advance, as they need to regulate the numbers that are in the aquarium at a given time. Hours of operation will be from 9 am to 5 pm daily. To reserve a ticket, click here.

    Honolulu Airport Mobile Coronavirus Testing Lab to Reduce Hours; Waikiki Location to Close
    The City’s mobile COVID-19 testing lab at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will reduce its hours starting on Sunday, July 27. The testing lab at the airport will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting Sunday. The mobile COVID-19 testing lab at the Hawaiian Monarch Hotel in Waikiki will close on Wednesday, June 30.

    MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

    Virtual Town Hall along with Mayor Rick Blangiardi & Rep. Scott Saiki
    Please join us for a Virtual Town Hall meeting on June 29, 2021 at 5:30pm.  Bring your questions and concerns, we’re here to hear from YOU.  Register in advance for this meeting here.  After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.  Put this on the right side so it doesn’t take up so much space

    City Council Briefing on Condo Fire Safety Challenges: June 29, 2:00pm
    Living in a condo and concerned about fire safety? City council members will be briefed by engineers, community associations, and insurance agents on the challenges surrounding condo fire safety. Panelists include:

    • Sam Dannaway – Coffman Engineers
    • Richard Emery – Community Association Institute (CAI), Hawaii Chapter
    • Ted Sakai – Punchbowl Condominium Owner
    • Sue Savio – Insurance Associates
    • Jane Sugimura – Hawaii Council of Community Associations.

    To view the meeting, click on the agenda here.

    Virtual Benefits Workshop for Veterans: June 29, 3:00pm – 5:00pm
    The United States Department of Veterans Affairs is federal department charged with integrating life-long healthcare services to eligible military veterans at 1,700 VA medical centers and outpatient clinics throughout the country. A virtual meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 29, 2021. Click here and scroll to the event.  For more info., email hiaarp@aarp.org

    City Council to Hear Reso on Regulation of People’s Open Markets: June 30, 10:00am
    City Council members will discuss a resolution requesting the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to amend its regulations for vendors of the “People’s Open Market Program” to require that a minimum percentage of the food products, plants, flowers, and other DPR-designated products sold by vendors at the People’s Open Markets be grown, caught, or cultivated in Hawaii; and to specifically require that all vendors offer for sale a minimum of 30 percent of these products by 2025 and a minimum of 60 percent by 2028. View the agenda here. The bill affects open markets at  Makiki District Park, Ala Moana (Magic Island) and Old Stadium Park.For a list of all city open markets, click here.

    McCully-Moiliili Neighborhood Board: July 1, 6:30pm
    Among the topics for discussion include establishing Citizen Patrols of the Honolulu Police Department Community Program, the designation of board representative(s), and the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizen Advisory Committee. Find the agenda here. (*Note: There is no webex link to attend this meeting virtually).

    WEEKEND WAYSIDES

    Honolulu Museum of Art Summer Nights: Starting June 25-26
    Find it all at the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA)!  Live musical performances, one-of-a-kind DJ sets, interactive art experiences, beverages and bites, and galleries with a lineup of all-ages programming—will open late all summer long!

    • On Fridays, performances from some of Hawaii’s best up-and-coming local musicians in the HoMA Cafe, along with beverages and bites available for purchase. Seating is first come, first served. Music takes place from 5:30 – 8pm.
    • On Saturdays, live music will take place on the Central Courtyard stage. Grab a lauhala mat, to-go food from the Cafe, and enjoy the performance on the grass from 5:30 – 8pm. (Weather permitting.) The group Aloha Got Soul will be deejaying in the HoMA Cafe from 6 – 8:30pm—grab some bar bites and a beverage (or two!) and enjoy their signature mix of 1970s and 80s jazz, funk, soul, and R&B music from Hawaii. Cafe seating is first come, first served. And stay tuned for special artmaking workshops and other special events in the HoMA Shop on Saturday nights at 5:30 p.m.  Find out more here.

    Music For Queen Liliuokalani at the Waikiki Shell: July 2 – July 4, 7:30pm – 9:00pm
    The Sheraton Starlight Series will feature the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra’s “Music For and By The Queen Liliuokalani” at the Waikiki Shell from July 2 thru July 4. Ticket costs are as follows:

    • $60 – Pool
    • $45 – 1st Terrace
    • $35 – 2nd Terrace
    • $25 – Lawn (sold in pods of 4 only).
    • Ages 3 & up will need to purchase a ticket for entry.

    The Sheraton Starlight Series will feature eight weeks of outdoor performances at the Waikiki Shell, embracing the sense of place this iconic venue provides to our community. For more info., call 808-380-7720 or send an email to info@hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org (link sends e-mail). To purchase tickets, visit: https://www.myhso.org/

    Van Gogh Art Exhibit at the Hawaii Convention Center: July 2 – August 15, 10:00am – 9:00pm
    Van Gogh artwork like you’ve never seen it before! The “Beyond Van Gogh” art exhibit opens on Friday, July 2, at the Hawaii Convention Center and will feature Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings as they deconstruct and surround the attendee. A musical component is also part of the experience. “Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience” debuted in North America in 2020 and is making a stop in Honolulu in 2021. The exhibit plunges visitors into some of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings. From “Starry Night” to “Sunflowers,” the 3D experience aims to exhilarate the senses. Tickets range from around $23 for children to $45 for adults and $90 for a VIP package. Click here to purchase tickets or call 808-469-4811.

    Take care & stay safe!

  • Happy Juneteenth and Father’s Day!

    Happy Juneteenth and Father’s Day!

    Happy Father’s Day – June 20, 2021

    When I was just a tiny kid–do you remember when?
    It seems like only yesterday you wiped away my tears.
    And late at night I called your name to chase away my fears.
    Though time has changed your handsome grip—your hair is snowy white,
    Your gait’s a little slower now; thick glasses help your sight.
    Oh, do I thirst for years gone by—to be that growing lad.
    Re-living all those memories
    of growing with my dad.
    -Author Unknown

    Happy Juneteenth!

    We also celebrate, on Saturday, June 19th commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States, dating back to June 19, 1865. We recognize and celebrate African American achievements. The Hawaii State Legislature passed SB939, signed into law by the Governor, that observes June 19 of each year as Juneteenth Day.  Mahalo to those who worked hard to pass this measure to recognize and commemorate an important moment in history.

    TIER 4, TRAVELING OUT-OF-STATE, COVID VARIANTS & VACCINES AVAILABLE

    Hawaii Finally Moves into Tier 4
    Triggered by an over 50% vaccination rate, Mayor Blangiardi has moved us into Tier 4 of the pandemic reopening plan. Just in time for summer, here’s a breakdown of the loosened restrictions:

    • Gatherings:  Outdoor social gatherings of up to 25 people AND indoor social gatherings of up to 10 people are now allowed.
    • Boating: Commercial and recreational boating is now without a capacity limit. Restaurant/bar rules apply.
    • Indoor Events: Concerts, conventions, meetings, dance and karaoke clubs are allowed up to 50% capacity if all attendees are tested or show proof of full vaccination.
    • Weddings: If outdoors, up to 200 people are allowed with defined capacity limits.
    • Sports: If indoors, spectators are allowed at up to 33% capacity.
    • Arcades have no capacity limit.
    • Road races and triathlons require a permit. Starting group sizes are subject to the gathering size limit.

    We’ll hit Tier 5 when the vaccination rate reaches 60% of Hawaii’s population. The restrictions will stop altogether when herd community has been reached–when 70% or more of island residents are vaccinated. Learn more at https://www.oneoahu.org/reopening-strategy

    Having Trouble Uploading Your Vaccine Card to the Safe Travels Website?
    So your arm still hurts from your Covid-19 shot and now you’re having trouble uploading it to the Safe Travels website. Here are a few Q&A’s for passengers who were vaccinated in Hawaii and are entering Hawaii from other U.S. states:

    Q: I uploaded my information for the vaccine exception, but it said my card could not be verified.  Now what?
    A: You should present the hard copy of the vaccine card when you arrive in Hawaii so an airport screener can manually verify it. If you are unable to upload the document before your trip, seek assistance from an airport screener after you land in Hawaii.
    Q:  I cannot upload my vaccine card no matter how many times I try. Am I going to have to get tested anyway?
    A: No, if you are unable to upload your vaccine card, seek technical assistance via the Safe Travels website (read the FAQs).
    Q:  Is a QR code still needed for returning vaccinated residents who have uploaded their vaccine information?
    A: Yes, a QR code is needed, and you won’t receive it until you answer the health questionnaire 24 hours before your flight. The vaccine exception exempts the eligible traveler from pre-travel testing and the 10-day quarantine. It is a tool within the Safe Travels system, which requires each adult traveler to create an account; add trip details; apply for a quarantine exemption or exception, if applicable; fill out a health questionnaire; and, if quarantined, check in daily for the duration. See the safe travels website for more information: https://travel.hawaii.gov/#/

    COVID-19 Variants and Other Illnesses Increase; Experts Advise Travelers to Take Extra Precaution
    That long-awaited summer vacation and travel beckons us—enjoy but with caution. Travel-related cases of COVID-19 are appearing in Hawaii as more residents are starting to go their summer travel. The Delta variant shouldn’t be a cause for panic, but it should be a reason to get vaccinated, as it is more infectious than other variants and more resistant to health controls. Although these are new strains, variants aren’t the only illnesses to watch out for. The common cold may once again return like an old, irritating friend. And with more people socializing and kids returning to the classroom this fall, health experts warn we could have a very active flu season ahead of us, as well as more cases of bronchitis which nearly disappeared during the shutter-in-place period.  As the pandemic situation changes, you may have questions. The contacts below may help:

    • Travel: 1-800-GoHawaii (1-800-464-2924); 7:45 am – 4:30 pm
    • Vaccine: (808) 586-8332; Monday through Friday; 7:45 am – 4:30 pm
    • Health Department Hawaii CARES hotline – available 24/7: CALL 1-800-753-6879 or TEXT ALOHA to 741741
    • Other essential community services:  7 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week; CALL 2-1-1 or TEXT (877) 275-6569

    Vaccination Opportunity in Kakaako!
    Visit SALT’s Free Walk-Up vaccination clinic this Saturday, 6/19.  The clinic is open to residents 12 years and older. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The vaccine is free, but you should bring your health insurance card and a photo I.D.. Walk-ups are welcome.  A mandatory COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Screening Form can be downloaded and printed in advance or completed on site.  For more information, visit SALT’s website here.

    TAX CREDITS, RENT RELIEF & MEDIATION

    IRS to Release Child Tax Credit Payments
    More relief is coming your way if you have keiki.  Beginning in mid-July, low-income families may be eligible to receive monthly child tax credit payments up to $300 per month for each qualifying child under age 6 and up to $250 per month for each qualifying child ages 6 to 17. Families do not need to take any action to get their payment. Families can also apply for advance tax credit. For more information, click here.

    City Rental and Utility Relief Program; Income Eligibility Limit Increases
    Good news renters! If you couldn’t qualify the first time, try again. Households at or below 80% of Oahu’s area median income can now apply. For example, a family of four earning up to $100,700 a year that can prove they’ve been hit financially by the pandemic can qualify for support.  But to help those in need, if your income is above the limit, please don’t apply since it delays the process for households in need. See: https://www.oneoahu.org/renthelp. For questions, call (808) 768-CITY (2489) from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., seven days a week.

    Governor Signs Bill Requiring Mediation Prior to Landlord Evictions
    Currently, landlord-tenant mediation can only be done after an eviction has been filed in Hawaii. Gov. David Ige just signed a measure Wednesday that temporarily requires mediation BEFORE a landlord files for eviction. With many people still struggling financially, it ensures that families are not evicted when there may be a way to negotiate a solution. Under the measure, landlords must provide a copy of a notice of termination of a rental agreement to a tenant and find a mediation center that provides free landlord-tenant mediation. The mediation must be completed within 30 days from the receipt of the notice. The program begins the day after the end of the eviction moratorium on Aug. 6.

    Survey on How to Improve Public Transportation
    Last week, we sent an erroneous link to you regarding this survey.  Please find the corrected link here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/hstcp2021.  The city transportation department (DTS) is surveying Oahu residents and seeking input from older adults, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and individuals with low incomes to better understand their transportation needs. DTS will use the data to update the Human Services Transportation Coordination Plan (HSTCP).  The survey will be available online until Wednesday, June 30, 2021.  Anyone with questions can email ccullison@pbrhawaii.com” style=”mso-line-height-rule: exactly;-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%;-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;color: #007C89;font-weight: normal;text-decoration: underline;”>ccullison@pbrhawaii.com

    UNEMPLOYMENT UPDATES

    Unemployed “Hybrid Workers” Can Now Earn an Extra $100 a Week of UI Benefits
    Are you a UI claimant whose past income was never fully counted to be eligible for unemployment benefits? Now, these side-income claimants will see an increase in their weekly benefit amount by $100 per week. The Mixed Earner Unemployment Compensation (MEUC) program is the sixth federal benefit program implemented by the labor department since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020. It started processing “hybrid worker” applications on June 17. To be eligible for MEUC, claimants must have earned a net income of at least $5,000 in self-employment work in the most recent taxable year before applying for unemployment benefits. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) recipients are not eligible for MEUC. For more info., and to apply, click here.

    PUA Claimants Must Now Record Job Search
    Self-employed and independent contractors will now need to prove they’re searching for work to collect UI benefits. The state is now requiring Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claimants to show they are making at least three job contacts every week. For the 36,000 residents claiming PUA unemployment, reports need to be made via the PUA portal starting Sunday, June 20. Examples include advertising your business, creating a profile on freelancing websites and promoting or marketing.  You may find information helpful at the department’s website here.

    DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

    Free Sailing Lessons at the Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor
    Ala Wai Harbor sailors are volunteering their time to teach sailing at no charge. Highly experienced and committed to the sailing lifestyle, they are happy to share their expertise on a first-come-first-serve basis with qualified individuals.
    All are permanent liveaboards at the Ala Wai Harbor. Located at the Ala Wai Canal between Waikiki and Honolulu, it is the largest small boat harbor in the state of Hawaii.  Interested individuals may send an email to staff@hawaiioceannews.com.

    Waikiki’s Art on the Zoo Fence Resumes
    After a long hiatus, artists will be back this weekend selling their artwork and photography along the fence of the Honolulu Zoo on Monsarrat Avenue. Since 1953, the Hawaii artists have been a common way-side destination for tourists strolling along Waikiki. It will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. The outdoor art show was shut down during the pandemic in March 2020. For more info., visit http://www.artonthezoofence.com/

    MARK YOUR CALENDARS

    June 22
    Ala Moana Kakaako Neighborhood Board, 6:30pm
    The next meeting of the Ala Moana/Kakaako Neighborhood Board No. 11 is scheduled for Tuesday, June 22, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. Some topics of discussion include the Ala Moana Transit Oriented Development Plan and the Kamani Street Houseless. Zoom Login info and testimony submission instructions can be found on the agenda here.

    June 23
    Ala Wai Small Boat Harbor Town Hall, 4:00-5:30pm
    The Legislature has ended, and much has been achieved. Get briefed on the outcomes, the budget, bills passed, and bills signed into law by the Governor. The Governor’s list of veto items will be out on June 21 so let’s meet on Zoom on Wednesday, June 23 from 4-5:30pm.  Agenda items include capital improvement projects, budget items, legislation, and plans for the coming year. If you have questions, please email them before the meeting to senmoriwaki@capitol.hawaii.gov. ; Zoom Login info is below:

    Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/93593701329?pwd=djUxZHNIbDdlWUJxYWZnRWZPaE1Kdz09
    Meeting ID: 935 9370 1329
    Passcode: 424405

    Proposed Waikiki Beach Improvement Plan: Send in Your Comments by July 23
    You have until July 23 to comment on the proposal that some say is needed to save the hotels and beach sands of Waikiki from coastline erosion– from the Kapahulu Groin to the Ewa end of Fort DeRussy Beach.  Exacerbated by sea level rise, some predict tourism revenues would shrink by more than $2.2 billion a year if Waikiki Beach were to disappear. Overall, the draft EIS provides a rich resource of Waikiki history and marine science, including many photographs. It can be found here. Comments should be emailed to waikiki@seaengineering.com by July 23.

    WEEKEND WAYSIDES

    Laugh With Dad Again: June 19, 7:00pm
    It’s not too early to celebrate Father’s Day. Treat dad to a hilarious night at The Beach House for a Funny Father’s Day comedy show at Aloha Tower this Saturday. Great drinks, food, and entertainment in a safe open-air environment. What more can you ask for?  Get your tickets online for $10 here.  Or at the door, cost is $15. Doors Open at 6pm. Show Starts a 7pm. Live DJ’s to follow!

    Love Those Little Bonsai: June 19, 10:00am-1:00pm
    Learn how to maintain these little trees called Bonsai while bringing a touch of forest into your garden. This workshop aims to teach you the foundation and techniques of their natural health and growth patterns. Cost is $95. Get your tickets here.

    Treat Dad to a Juicy Steak on Father’s Day this Sunday, June 20
    Multi-course menus, boozy buffets and brunches, stylish special occasion restaurants and old-school meals featuring classic cuts of beef. Treat dad to a dine-in dinner or a takeout meal from one of these top steak-centric restaurants.

    Support The Arts in Hawaii: June 20, 2:00-5:00pm
    Celebrate the start of summer and Father’s Day by enjoying the work of local artists at the new Downtown Art Center, 2nd Floor, 1041 Nuuanu Ave., Suite B, Honolulu, HI 96817, directly across from Hank’s! $20 suggested donation at the door, a portion of the proceeds help benefit the Downtown Art Center! Due to social distancing requirements, space will be limited! Make your reservation here.  For more info., call (808) 773-7339

    Take care & stay safe!