August 2020
Dept. of Transportation Monthly Newsletter
Connecting the DOTs... Connected Vehicle Technology Available on Ala Moana Boulevard, Nimitz Highway
The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) recently announced the availability of connected vehicle technology within the Ala Moana Boulevard / Nimitz Highway corridor. The connected vehicle technology can provide alerts and other information about the corridor to motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians through a free application.
HDOT requested proposals for a connected traffic control system on the Ala Moana Boulevard / Nimitz Highway corridor in late 2019 as part of a research project with the University of Hawai‘i. The goal of the research project is to determine the capabilities of the latest connected traffic control systems to efficiently and safely manage multiple modes of transportation. Installation of the system components was completed in April. “Connected and automated vehicle (CAV) technology is the future of transportation,” said Senator Lorraine Inouye, Chair, Senate Transporta-
tion Committee. “The recent effects of COVID-19 and the State’s economic dependency on tourism has further shown us that we need to continue to look for ways to diversify our economy. The V2E pilot is just one of many ways we can make Hawaii an attractive test site for CAV manufacturers. This joint partnership with HDOT, UH, and Econolite shows the initiative that we need to position Hawai‘i to be a leader in CAV technology.” “The Vehicle to Everything (V2E) solution selected for the Nimitz pilot is a huge advancement in management of our corridors,” said Highways Deputy Director Ed Sniffen. “We’re now able to communicate with the controllers using 4G cellular modems and utilize adaptive signal control to respond to situations causing congestion along the route. It’s a total game changer.” See TECHNOLOGY continued on page 17
CONNECTING THE DOTs
Editor-in-Chief: Lynn Araki-Regan
Managing Editor: Rae Nguyen Copy Editor: Juli Chun Art Director: Frank Uratani Column Writers: Darren Cantrill Rey Domingo Melanie Martin
Contributors: Rep. Henry Aquino Jade Butay Derek Chow Sgt. John JD DeJesus Sgt. Gabe Delapenia Dan Dennison Arnold Fukumoto Alan Hilton Sharilyn Ikeda Sen. Lorraine Inouye Duane Kim Shelly Kunishige Carter Luke Tim Sakahara Joni Savusa Davis Yogi
©2020 Connecting the DOTs. All rights reserved. Interested in submitting for next month’s newsletter? Send your articles and high resolution photos to lynn.araki-regan@hawaii.gov.
Table of Contents Connected Video Technology ................................1 Director’s Message .....................................................3 Parallels of Statehood & Current Beliefs.............4 Message from Senator Lorraine Inouye............. 5 Legislative Wrap Up of 2020 by Rep. Aquino... 6 Quarantine Enforcement ......................................... 7 Administration ............................................................. 8 Airports .........................................................................11 Harbors ........................................................................ 13 Highways ..................................................................... 17 National Immunization Awareness Month .... 19 15 Facts About Hawaii ............................................21 Arrivals & Departures .............................................24
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Message from our Director Aloha HDOT ‘Ohana, On August 6, Governor Ige announced the reinstatement of the interisland quarantine effective August 11. The reinstatement of the 14-day travel quarantine for interisland travelers arriving on Kauai, Maui, Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, and Hawai‘i Island and the closures of beaches and parks on Oahu are unfortunate, but necessary, steps to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. In July, during our ongoing COVID response, we faced a challenge we are more familiar with—the threat of an incoming hurricane. HDOT’s emergency workers banded together, enacted our plans, and were ready to protect the State’s critical infrastructures. I am thankful that Hurricane Douglas decided not to test us but am confident that we would have stepped up to the plate as we always do. Please continue to do what needs to be done to fight COVID-19, especially with the recent surges in the number of cases. Wear masks whenever interacting with others, wash your hands frequently for at least 20-seconds at a time, and keep at least 6-feet from others. If you have any questions on COVID-19 in the workplace, remember that the COVID hotline remains available to you at 211 or (808) 208-1040. Mahalo for reading the newsletter and for being a part of the team that keeps our communities connected through air, land, and sea! Here’s looking to the day when we will be able to connect without the threat of COVID. Until then, let’s continue to be vigilant by protecting ourselves, our families, and our co-workers. Mahalo, Jade T. Butay
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Parallels of Statehood and Current Beliefs By: Derek Chow
When I was given this assignment to write about Admissions Day, I didn’t realize how difficult the task would be. I thought, “easy, I will just write about the controversy at the time of Hawai‘i becoming a state with the current backdrop of the protests ongoing throughout the nation.” And since being born and raised in Hawai‘i, it would be easy to write about growing up as an US citizen. Little did I know that my reading of history to write this article would make me realize that the history of statehood and current beliefs in Hawaii have many parallels to what is disturbing our nation today. Here are some facts leading up to Statehood: • President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed Hawaii as a state on August 21, 1959. • Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole, who was the non-voting congressional delegate of the Territory of Hawai‘i, had sought to have Hawai‘i enter the union as early as 1919. • Of 155,000 registered voters in Hawai‘i in 1959, 140,000 voted for Hawai‘i to become a state. • There were about 500,000 residents of Hawai‘i at the time. • Hawai‘i had been occupied by the United States since 1898. • Hawai‘i is believed to have been colonized by Polynesian voyagers in the eighth century. Hawaii has been visited by Spain (1500’s), by Britain (1700’s), by Russia (1800’s) and finally by the US. As we celebrate Hawai‘i’s Statehood Day or Admission Day, let me reflect on some history and try to invoke some thought about what it should mean to us today in 2020.
I don’t think anyone would argue being given a paid day off from work, so there is one benefit, and this particular holiday is specific to Hawai‘i, though other states have their own holiday. In Hawai‘i still, and maybe more so in the last few years, given the wakened awareness of the people to sense of being and self-determination, developments like the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) and park development at Waimanalo Park/Sherwood Forest have been challenged. For many, statehood remains controversial as many believe that Hawai‘i was improperly forced to become a state by the powerful minority. In fact, some believe that Hawai‘i should seek sovereignty from the US as well as be paid reparations for past injuries. I don’t challenge the belief of those wanting to seek sovereignty or reparations. Although, I would like to consider the possibilities of truly being independent from the US. There are still many countries around the world that remain independent countries, but one thing that is clear, while independent, their survival and existence are through alliances with more powerful countries. Probably the closest geographically to Hawai‘i are the Pacific Territories of American Samoa, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands and the Freely Associated States of the Republic of Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, and See DEPUTY DIRECTOR continued on page 23
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Transportation Measures Passed at Legislative Session
By: Senator Lorraine Inouye Chair, Senate Committee on Transportation Aloha,
lack of motor vehicle insurance, or noncompliance with a child support order.
On July 10th, the 2020 legislative session adjourned sine die. This session was a particularly difficult one due to COVID-19 and its negative impact on state revenues. However, we were able to come to an agreement on a number of measures that will benefit our communities and the State of Hawai’i. The House and Senate Transportation Committees successfully passed several measures addressing a wide range of transportation related issues including highway safety, driver’s license and identification, autonomous vehicle testing, and water carriers. Below are highlights of several of the measures the Legislature approved. For more information on these bills, you can view the full text, summary, and testimony on the State Capitol website. HB1676 HD1 SD2 establishes the Photo Red Light Imaging Detector Systems Program and authorizes the State and counties to administer the Program. It also establishes a two-year pilot program in the City and County of Honolulu and requires a report to the legislature. HB2590 HD2 SD2 establishes within HDOT an autonomous vehicle testing pilot program and requires a report to the legislature. HB2750 HD2 SD2 prohibits the imposition of stoppers because of unpaid monetary obligations incurred on or after November 1, 2020. The measure excludes driver’s license suspensions related to excessive speeding,
The measure would also, from date of its approval, allow an individual meeting certain requirement to petition the court to grant a driver’s license or motor vehicle clearance, ahead of the November 1, 2020, prohibition on stoppers. SR125 SD1 requests HDOT and respective Counties to provide at least $15,000,000 in financial assistance to water carriers to enable them to maintain essential routes and lines of service within the State. The measure also requests that the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) convene a working group on or before August 1, 2020 to recommend mid- and long-term solutions to ensure continuous water carrier service throughout the State. The Legislature will have to reintroduce and continue working on a number of measures during the next legislative biennium. The measures that were passed by the Legislature have now been enrolled to the Governor, giving him until September 15, 2020, to consider each of these bills and either sign, veto, or allow them to become law without his signature. Mahalo,
Senator Lorraine R. Inouye PAGE 5
Legislative Wrap-Up for 2020
By: State House Rep. Henry Aquino Chair, House Committee on Transportation
The Legislature convened its Regular Session of 2020 as usual on January 15, 2020 and moved swiftly through early March. At the First Crossover deadline, the legislative chambers crossed over a combined total of 880 bills for consideration by the non-originating chamber until the Second Decking and Crossover which was slated for early April. The global and local impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in mid-March brought the legislative session to a complete halt with an ensuing and unprecedented extended recess starting on March 17th. As we know well, the global impact of COVID-19 has been well documented and Hawai‘i has been severely affected. With a near-complete shutdown of the tourism industry, Hawai‘i is experiencing economic damage, historic levels of unemployment impacting many families and a significant loss of tax revenue. When the Legislature reconvened on May 11th, nearly two months after the first extended recess, the direction of legislation focused on important, fiscal needs of the State and counties as a result of the pandemic. During that brief, eight-day reconvene session, the Legislature passed seven fiscal measures to the Governor that addressed emergency funding for the State through the CARES Act, Executive and Judicial branch budgets, capital improvement project funding, and deferral of certain state employment costs. Then on May 22nd, the Legislature began a second extended recess to await state tax revenue findings and projections from the Council on Revenues meeting which was
scheduled for late May. The revenue forecasts from the Council on Revenues took into consideration the Governor’s Emergency Proclamations, including the stay-athome orders and the mandatory 14-day self-quarantine period for travelers. In light of the economic downturn, the Council’s May 2020 General Fund revenue forecasts for the 2020 and 2021 fiscal years are negative. Specifically, a drop in revenues of 7.0% for fiscal year 2020 and a drop in revenues of 12.0% for fiscal year 2021. Then on June 22, 2020, the Legislature reconvened a second time. During this particular reconvene session, the House and Senate reached agreement and passed additional legislation to protect the health and safety of the people; provide funding for rental assistance, counseling and loan modification assistance to homeowners, and personal protective equipment to those most in need; improve travel safety and screening and workforce development and new economic initiatives; increase food security; provide state plus-up unemployment benefits when comparable federal benefits expire; enhance consumer and environmental protections; provide homelessness and housing support; further early learning, allocate funding for the purchase of devices for certain public school See WRAP-UP page 20
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Quarantine Enforcement Active for Anyone Coming to Hawaii By: Dan Dennison It’s a monumental effort to keep track of everyone who should be in quarantine and it involves a hui of law enforcement agencies, representatives of Hawai‘i’s visitor industry, state transportation workers, and the community generally.
AG’s investigators also conduct random “compliance” checks on people who are in quarantine. Prior to the conclusion of an individual’s quarantine, AG Special Agents go into the field to see if people are complying. Those, who aren’t, are investigated further to ensure they’re complying. If not, they can be arrested or cited.
The Honolulu Police Department (HPD) reports its officers do respond to quarantine violations and officers have discretion to warn, cite, or arrest based on available facts and circumstances. The team calling quarantined visitors is made up of workers from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau, Hawai‘i County Civil Defense and the Maui Police Department.
Attorney General Paul Jones said, “The response from those that have been checked in the field, have been positive, and they are appreciative that someone is actually checking.”
There are approximately 80 members on this calling team, and they work to call quarantined visitors from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. every day, including weekends and holidays.
The AG’s Investigative Division is responsible for a vast array of criminal, administrative, civil, and certain regulatory matters, including investigations of government corruption, whitecollar crimes, career criminals, public safety, homeland security, sex offender, computer crimes, etc.
They have contacted well over 27,000 travelers and have made more than 113,000 phone calls, texts and emails since the quarantine order went into effect at the end of March.
“Our investigations division team focuses on any crimes that significantly affect the safety and well-being of our community,” said Attorney General Clare Conners.
Some 7,145 are still actively being tracked. Since the end of March, the team has escalated 667 travel parties for suspected or reported violations.
“We take seriously our responsibility to keep people safe during this COVID-19 pandemic.”
Staff volunteers from the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation contact returning residents, utilizing many of the same procedures as the team tracking quarantined visitors. PAGE 7
Administration
Has Your Password Been Stolen? How many of you use the same password for many sites? Did you know this is a common occurrence and many of your passwords are being sold on the dark web?
By: Darren Cantrill
A new window will open, and Chrome will go through the process of “Checking passwords” again.
It was recently revealed that more than 44 million Microsoft account holders have been found using recycled passwords. This kind of login credential duplication is a gift for hackers who can then use one known, stolen, password against multiple different accounts with a good chance of gaining access to some of them.
I check my passwords frequently, and luckily my passwords only appeared 15 days ago for all 22 compromised passwords. Here is my Fitbit account information:
If you check too many times, you’ll get this error below. Select the link “check passwords in your Google Account”: Forbes’ article reveals the world’s 100 worst passwords. Are you using a bad password? Find out here. There are ways to stay on top of your passwords, if you use Google’s Chrome browser, copy/paste this link into your Chrome browser window (chrome://settings/passwords) to bring up Chrome’s internal password manager.
Where a new tab will open with:
It will look like this (click on the “Check passwords” text):
See PASSWORD on page 9 PAGE 8
Administration
PASSWORD from page 8
Click on the “Go to Password Checkup” box. This link takes you to your Google log in:
If you don’t use Google Chrome, there are a few sites you can check: After logging in, the Google Password Checkup wizard will display the results of your checked passwords:
https://haveibeenpwned.com/Passwords https://breachalarm.com/
and
The simplest way to protect yourself is use a password manager to create random, complex and unique passwords for every site or service. This also ensures your passwords are stored in an encrypted database. There are many solutions available (some paid/some free). I’d recommend you do your research and pick the one that meets your needs (Link 1 & Link 2 best password managers for 2020). If websites use two-factor authentication, please start using this as it provides a second layer of protection.
Selecting each section will display the sites that need to have the passwords changed. Conveniently, Google provides a link to “change password” for each site. Another benefit from Google, if you happen to go to a website where your password “could have” been compromised, this helpful alert will pop up to let you know you might have a problem.
Two factor authentication is a method in which a computer user is granted access only after successfully presenting two or or more pieces of evidence to an authentication mechanism. Password management is an important part of protecting your online presence so take the time now to keep yourself protected!
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Administration New Upgrade to DOTCMS Goes Live The DOT Content Management System (DOTCMS) is the Department of Transportation’s online searchable archive system for storage of documents in electronic form. On August 3, a new upgrade of DOTCMS was launched, representing the culmination of a major project effort undertaken by DOT/ ADMIN Division personnel from the Computer Systems & Services Office (CSS), and the Business Management Office (BUS). The original DOTCMS, first brought on line in the early 2000s, saw it’s last major upgrade in 2010. By late 2018, the operational system was running technology no longer supported by the principal vendor (IBM), creating a need to upgrade DOTCMS to a newer, vendor-supported environment. The upgrade that just launched was initiated with major work starting in the first quarter of 2019, with a prototype concept being shown to the DOTCMS end-user support team, consisting of personnel from BUS, CSS, and their contracted consultant, ThoughtFocus Inc. The long journey to upgrade, starting from early 2019, reached its final goal with the recent “Go-Live” announcement sent on August 3rd, 2020, to over 500 registered users comprising the DOTCMS user community located in office units throughout all four DOT Divisions.
By: Alan Hilton
DOTCMS serves a variety of archival and access functions for a wide range of DOT document types. These include Administrative and Contracts-related documents, official DOT Correspondence, financial documents such as Audit Reports and Summary Warrant Vouchers, Program and Project documents, Property Agreements, and Property Insurance documents. DOTCMS also provides some specialized functions for certain Divisions, like serving as a back-end for Harbors Division’s GIS system, and providing hyper-linked resources used within Airports Division’s property management system (AIRMIS21). It even includes a directory to legacy archive collections, like microfilmed records that were created prior to 2002, should they ever be needed for retrieval in support of current DOT projects. File Room staff of the BUS Office Services section (BUS-O) provides central filing services for DOTCMS. The document image files stored in DOTCMS are saved in PDF/A searchable format, which includes both the image of the original document and the text created from conversion into computer readable characters. Primary information about documents, referred to as “property values”, are entered by BUS-O staff and saved in document profile records to pro-
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See DOTCMS on page 18
Airports KOA Levels Up Its Disinfecting Game
By: Rae Nguyen
With the pandemic affecting air travel, visitors will see new changes at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole. There are visible signs located curbside, at security checkpoints, and inside sterile holding areas. The signage reminds visitors to wear masks, wash hands, and to socially distance at least six feet from each other. Dotted along common walkways are red social distancing stickers and hand sanitizers stationed throughout the airport. Janitors can be seen wearing backpack foggers, spraying disinfectant in common areas between flights.
Assistant Airport Superintendent David Bell lends his famous voice to remind visitors to wear their mask.
It’s the voice of David Bell, Assistant Airport Superintendent IV, reminding everyone to wear a mask or risk confrontation from airport police. It’s the new normal. And Kona International Airport is ready to welcome back visitors and residents safely.
Passengers will also hear a soothing, baritone voice coming through the terminal speakers.
Aviation Phrase of the Month:
“Let’s kick the tires and light the fires, Big Daddy” What does that mean?
After completing pre-flight gear inspection, the airplane is ready for takeoff. But who says it in what movie? Correct answer gets a KOA commemorative anniversary button. Email Rae Nguyen at tuyenrae.t.nguyen@hawaii.gov. with your answer. Good luck! PAGE 11
Airports New Thermal Temperature Screening Equipment in Use at Hawaii’s Airports By: Tim Sakahara
The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) Airports Division is pleased to announce the thermal temperature screening equipment is now in use to help detect passengers with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and above.
HDOT and the NEC team, including NEC Corporation, NEC Corporation of America and their partner, Infrared Cameras Inc., have completed phase one of the project on schedule which included installation of the thermal temperature screening equipment at the gates currently in use to welcome arriving trans-Pacific flights at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Kahului Airport (OGG), Lihue Airport (LIH), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). “The thermal screening equipment is a positive feature that streamlines the process for people traveling to Hawaii, while also working to keep the community safe by detecting people with a fever,” said Gov. David Ige. “The equipment is a step in the direction of what will be the new normal as we move forward in the COVID-19 era.”
“I am incredibly proud of NEC’s ability to deploy our thermal screening technology quickly and efficiently while staying on budget,” said Jason Van Sice, Vice President of Aviation, NEC Corporation of America. “Phase one represents a significant step in protecting the health and safety of the visitors and residents of Hawaii against the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only does this technology enhance the overall travel experience, but it will help passengers regain confidence in air travel in the state of Hawaii.” “The Hawaii National Guard is honored to partner with the Department of Transportation on the front lines of screening visitors and returning residents as they arrive at Hawaii’s airports,” said Hawaii National Guard, Joint Task Force Commander, Brig. Gen. Moses Kaoiwi, Jr. “Our Guardsmen are adept and will adjust well to the new temperature screening system and procedures that improves Hawaii’s mitigation efforts against COVID-19.” Members of the Hawaii National Guard and HDOT employees have been trained statewide to operate and monitor the equipment. Passengers used to stop to have their temperature taken by See THERMAL EQUIPMENT on page 18
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A Fond Farewell for Dale Andres
By: Arnold Fukumoto
After 34 years at the Harbors Division as an engineer, Dale Andres retired on July 31, 2020. It was a double celebration as that day is also his birthday. Dale was employed at the Engineering Maintenance Section for his entire DOT career. The amount of repair projects he procured to maintain the Harbors facilities is upwards of 500, all of which he designed and drafted himself.
Harbors
He would also be asked to say grace at these functions, providing the perfect words for the occasion. His artwork is proudly displayed at several DOT offices. Dale was a star basketball player for our DOT team in HGEA leagues.
He was a huge part of our Harbors Ohana due to his multitude of talents.
But most of all his friendship and humor enriched everyone at Harbors.
Dale performed at our Christmas and other functions with his vocals and guitar.
Congratulations Dale! Thank you for your years of service with DOT and the State of Hawai‘i.
A New Face at Harbors - Derrick Carne The Harbors Division would like to welcome aboard Derrick Carne to our Property Management Section. Tell us your experience being hired amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: In February 2020, I received an invitation to interview and quickly arrange a flight into Honolulu from Tampa, Florida, the following week. Shortly after, an offer came in from Harbors and I accepted. The plan was to be here in April 2020, but COVID-19 spreading around the world and plans got delayed. Finally, on June 1, I flew in on a nearly empty plane straight into the 14-day quarantine.
By: Joni Savusa
I made it to Hawaii and am glad to be part of the Property Management Team. What made you want to move to Hawai‘i? I lived here before for about 6 years while I was in the Navy and attended Hawaii Pacific University after service.
I grew up surfing in Florida but mediocre waves left me yearning to connect with the surf here once again. Although surfing is a big part of moving back, I still have many friends here and enjoy everything else Hawai‘i has to offer.
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Harbors Harbors Police Train with New Taser 7 Electric Guns
By: Sgt. John JD DeJesus and Sgt. Gabe Delapenia
Harbors police officers are sworn State of Hawai‘i law enforcement personnel who provide police services for Hawaii’s commercial harbors. They uphold the law and protect people and commercial property include shipping and cargo areas, maritime businesses, Aloha Tower Marketplace, Hawaii Pacific University and the Pier 38 Fishing Village. Because Hawai‘i’s harbors bring in over 98% of consumer goods, including luxury items such as cars, electronics and tools, our commercial harbors are prime locations for criminal activity. Harbors is also where people gather and work, with higher probabilities for conflict - if not addressed immediately - can result in bodily injury or even death. Keeping the harbors safe is a 24/7 operation to ensure that when a situation arises officers are available and can quickly respond. In 2019, Act 187 was signed into law by the Hawaii Legislature that would allow Harbors Police Officers to carry tasers. After acquiring electric guns and implementing policy, officers have undergone extensive training and certification in its use. While on routine patrols, Harbors Police have encountered various crimes including motor
vehicle thefts, drownings, assaults and murders. Our Harbors Police Officers are trained to handle these conflicts and with the use of these tools will help in de-escalating the situation without further action. In a remarkable show of solidarity, Deputy Director Derek Chow agreed to be tased in one of our electric gun training and certification sessions. Chow was asked to share his perspective to assist in our training and understanding of this useful compliance tool. “Anyone who may face the consequence of being tased should consider complying with the officer,” admitted Chow. “It’s worse than probably putting all your fingers, toes and your tongue in an electric outlet,” said Chow.
Brave Deputy Director Derek Chow takes one for the team and gets tased during Harbors Police training. Thank goodness he’s alive.
“I will remember the sound of the taser being fired and the crackling sound of the electric current for what felt like the longest 5 seconds of my life. It seemed like forever.” “I am proud and grateful of Harbors Police Officers who risk their safety each day in protecting the public and our Harbor community,” said Chow. “The use of the taser weapon adds to their repertoire of effective law enforcement tools.”
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Harbors Green Light on Pier 24-28 Utilities Improvement Project
By: Sharilyn Ikeda and Carter Luke
Utilities Improvements project for Piers 2428 at Honolulu Harbor has been awarded to MIRA Image Construction, LLC. This $12.8 million project is part of the overall Harbors Modernization Plan and will provide for needed infrastructure improvements to harbor users, some of which were relocated because of the Kapalama Container Terminal construction. Improvements include a new sewer system, potable water, fire hydrants, communication and electrical services. It will also involve demolition and partial removal of the existing electrical system and the utility feeds to each subdivided tenant lot. Notice to Proceed was issued on Aug 2, 2020 and construction of improvements are underway and are anticipated to be completed within a year. This project is just a small, but important part of Harbors project phasing that allows for the new Kapalama Container Terminal. The Harbors Modernization Plan is a comprehensive plan to revitalize and upgrade Hawaii’s commercial harbor facilities. It will help to effectively manage and operate Hawai‘i’s statewide commercial harbors system,
that facilitates the efficient movement of people and goods to, from and between the Hawaiian Islands. The harbor system is vital to the economic viability and security of the state as more than 80 percent of all goods consumed by people in Hawaii are imported, and of that more than 98% is shipped in through the commercial harbors system. No state general fund taxpayer money is being used on the construction.
projects like Piers 24-28.
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The HDOT Harbors Division is self-sufficient and generates revenue from harbor user fees and charges to pay for operating and maintenance costs, as well as to fund capital improvement
Harbors Maui District Launches New Security & Disaster By: Duane Kim Recovery Boat During July, the Harbors Division announced commissioning three (3) 27-foot long and one (1) 29-foot long aluminum monohulled boats new Security and Disaster Recovery vessels to be launched at Hilo and Kawaihae Harbors, Hawai‘i; Kahului Harbor, Maui. The veessels are capable for crossing the channels to support recovery efforts at Kaumalapau Harbor, Lanai, and Kaunakakai Harbor, Moloka’i; and Nawiliwili Harbor, Kauai. The vessels were designed in collaboration with the US Army Corp of Engineers and equipped with carry side scan sonar designed to conduct first response assessments of underwater hazards that can obstruct safe navigation or prevent vessels from tying up to our piers after a tropical storm, earthquake, hurricane or tsunami. On July 25-26, the threat of Hurricane Douglas (Dougie) came dangerously close to the islands. Dougie passed Hawai‘i and came close to Maui. Kahului Harbor is the only commercial harbors on the north side of any of the State commercial ports making Dougie a high risk of causing damage to the Kahului Harbor, and the rest of the islands in the path of the storm.
Ke Ali’i O Ke Kai at 0600 on July 27th to initiate its search for submerged debris. How the side-scan works is the Ke Ali’i O Ke Kai tows the Side-scan sonar device that emits conical or fan-shaped pulses down toward the seafloor across a wide angle perpendicular to the path of the sensor through the water. On July 27, the Ke Ali’i O Ke Kai provided a video, and Maui District Manager Duane Kim provided a photo of the video of the scan at Pier 1, Kahului Harbor.
On the right side of the picture what looks like a spring is Pier 1. The odd share items are rocks. To the left edge of the picture is the harbor. The good news is that the sonar scans did not detect any underwater hazards that would have obstructed the safe navigation or prevent vessels from tying up to the piers. The Ke Ali’i O Ke Kai did detect two schools of fish (shown to the left and right of the center line.) Sorry, no fishing in the commercial ports!
As the storm passed, Maui District launched the PAGE 16
TECHNOLOGY continued from page 1
congestion changes along the route. It’s a total game changer.” Roughly 720 detection zones (cameras and pucks) and 34 roadside units were installed through the Nimitz V2E Pilot. The detection zones measure traffic through a combination of video detection, which is not recorded, and magnetometer. Data from the detection zones tells the controllers what types of vehicles are moving down the corridor and how efficiently they are moving. Communications between the detection zones, roadside units/controllers and the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) is facilitated through secure CV2X (cellular) and DSRC (Digital Short Range Communications) signals. Intersections on Nimitz Highway/Ala Moana Boulevard that are part of the V2E pilot are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23.
Kalia Rd / Ena Rd & Ala Moana Blvd Kahanamoku St & Ala Moana Blvd Hobron Ln & Ala Moana Blvd Ala Moana Park Dr / Atkinson Dr & Ala Moana Blvd Ala Moana Center Exit & Ala Moana Blvd Ala Moana Center Entrance & Ala Moana Blvd Piikoi St & Ala Moana Blvd Queen St & Ala Moana Blvd Ala Moana Park Dr / Kamakee St & Ala Moana Blvd Kewalo Basin entrance & Ala Moana Blvd Ward Ave & Ala Moana Blvd Koula St & Ala Moana Blvd Cooke St & Ala Moana Blvd Coral St & Ala Moana Blvd Keawe St & Ala Moana Blvd Forrest Ave/South St & Ala Moana Blvd Channel St & Ala Moana Blvd Punchbowl St & Ala Moana Blvd Halekauwila St/Richards St & Nimitz Hwy Alakea St & Nimitz Hwy Bishop St & Nimitz Hwy Fort Street Mall & Nimitz Hwy Bethel St/Nuuanu Ave & Nimitz Hwy
24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34.
Highways
Smith St & Nimitz Hwy River St & Nimitz Hwy Pacific St (westbound) & Nimitz Hwy Pacific St (eastbound) & Nimitz Hwy Alakawa St & Nimitz Hwy Fishing Village & Nimitz Hwy Waiakamilo Rd & Nimitz Hwy Kalihi St & Nimitz Hwy Mokauea St & Nimitz Hwy Puuhale Rd & Nimitz Hwy Sand Island Access Rd & Nimitz Hwy
Motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians traveling through these intersections can receive safety information such as audible alerts when there are potential conflicts through a free app called TravelSafely. The app is available in the Apple App Store or on Google Play. More information on the TravelSafely app can be viewed here. State Rep. Henry J.C. Aquino, Chair, House Transportation Committee added: “This kind of connectivity has tremendous opportunities to prioritize road safety and could encompass or complement recent bills passing the State Legislature including which could be very beneficial for our state both from a safety standpoint and for further research, development and other innovations.” Total cost for the Nimitz V2E Pilot, which includes installation of the system, training, cybersecurity, and warranty/support services, was $4.68 million. HDOT thanks the University of Hawai‘i College of Engineering, Senate and House Transportation Committees, and its partners for their support as we continue to explore advancements in our traveler information and Intelligent Transportation Systems. Video of the news conference announcing the pilot on August 4 can be viewed on the HDOT YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/4-FuuQj9tGY
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DOTCMS continued from page 10
vide key search information within DOTCMS. Aside from migration to a vendor-supported release, the new DOTCMS upgrade includes improvements to the look and feel of the user system interface. Search engines are now accessible through folders, and Adobe Reader functionality has been integrated into the new platform. In recognition of the committed staff efforts required to complete the DOTCMS Upgrade project, sincere thanks goes out to the following staff members of CSS (Moody Matsunaga, Amber Eshima, Xiaoping Luo, Stan Hamada,
& Charles Kitsuki), and BUS (Sarah Nagaji, Helen Yao, Jason Morishige, Rachael Park & Cynthia Afuso), for bringing this project to completion. A special “Mahalo!” (in addition to fond farewell) goes out to Sarah Nagaji, who will soon be departing Hawaii to relocate with her active-duty spouse on transfer to a mainland Navy station later this month. Sarah served as the primary coordinator and organizer for the BUS team efforts throughout the duration of the project, and deserves sincerest appreciations for her role in bringing the project to completion, and deserves sincerest appreciation for her role...
THERMAL EQUIPMENT from page 12
hand held thermometers. Passengers are now able to deplane the aircraft without stopping. An alert on the monitor will appear if someone is detected to have a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher. The Hawai‘i National Guard member or an airport representative will then pull that passenger aside for further evaluation.
Phase 2 of the project will install the temperature scanning equipment at the remaining gates by Aug. 20, 2020. Phase 3 expects to have the facial imaging equipment installed by December 31, 2020.
American Medical Response (AMR) paramedics or the Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) units stationed at the airport will verify the passenger’s temperature. The passenger will be offered a COVID-19 test and the person’s information will be collected to provide to the Hawai‘i Department of Health for contact tracing, if necessary.
local residents.
The NEC team is utilizing the skills of Hawaii’s workforce with approximately 90 percent of the employees being
The HDOT newsletter team sends a big mahalo to the dedicated airports employees who are working on this project, including but not limited to Ford Fuchigami, Guy Ichinotsubo, Gene Matsushige, Chief Martinez Jacobs and all those who were on the selection committee.
PAGE 18
August is National Immunization Awareness Month By: Melanie Martin The month of August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Hawai‘i for the first time must have a completed health record form to document that a physical examination was performed within one year before childcare facility or school entrance, and that all immunization requirements have been met.
August is also when most of our children go back to school, whether physically, virtually, or a hybrid of both. Hawai‘i law requires all students to meet physical examination, immunization, and tuberculosis clearance requirements, before they can attend a childcare facility, preschool, or public/private school in the State.
Schools will accept a child on the first day of school if they have an appointment to see their doctor to complete the health record form.
Effective July 1, 2020, there are additional immunization requirements for students entering preschool, Kindergarten, 7th grade, post-secondary school, and all new students to the state (regardless of age). These new requirements conform with current national recommendations and reflect what occurs in Hawai‘i health care provider’s offices and clinics as standard medical practice. By the first day of school, all students entering childcare, preschool, or school in
Students must also have a completed TB clearance form. Students who have not completed the above requirements by the first day of school will not be allowed to attend school until these requirements are met. For more information, visit the State of Hawai‘i, Department of Health, Immunization Branch, at https://health.hawaii.gov/docd/ vaccines-immunizations/school-healthrequirements/sy-20-21.
August 21, 1959 Hawai‘i was admitted as the last state to join the United States of America.
PAGE 19
WRAP-UP continued from page 6
students, facilitate the development, planning,
Regular Session.
and construction of school facilities and capital improvements, and advance the safety and development of transportation. Specifically, the following measures were vetted in the House Committee on Transportation during the regular session and passed final reading:
a time when it’s most needed.
HB 1676, HD1, SD2—This bill focuses on promoting public safety by establishing a photo red light imaging detector systems program by first allowing a two-year pilot to commence in the City and County of Honolulu and upon completion, may be implemented on a statewide basis on individual counties. It also focuses on imposing monetary liability on the registered owner for any red light violations and requires the Department of Transportation to provide an annual report to the Legislature from 2021 to 2024. HB 2590, HD2, SD2—This measure establishes within the Department of Transportation the Autonomous Vehicle Testing Pilot program to test and assess the feasibility and safety of autonomous vehicles in Hawai‘i and requires a report to the Legislature before the 2023
The potential economic impact of the enactment of this bill could be substantial by luring automobile manufacturers and software companies to Hawai‘i — developing new jobs and economic development at
All measures passing final reading are subject to Governor’s approval—with or without signature or veto. The Legislature adjourned on July 10, 2020 following a condensed session of just 53 legislative days but nearly two months later than originally scheduled. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc globally and locally, the Legislature stands ready to further address Hawai‘i’s needs when necessary. Lastly, I look forward to continuing our work together with the leadership and the various division staffs of the department on all transportation and related issues in the near future.
PAGE 20
15 Facts You Didn’t Know About Hawai‘i
Article Courtesy of Jill Kozak of Matador Network Published 11/9/17. Reprinted with permission.
1. Hawaii was illegally overthrown by the U.S. During Queen Liliuokalani’s reign in 1893, a group of men from Liliuokalani’s cabinet known as The Committee of Public Safety, executed a military coup to overthrow the Hawaiian Kingdom. In its aftermath, President Grover Cleveland was in favor of restoring the monarchy, but his successor, President William McKinley, saw Hawai’i as a strategic power for US troops fighting in the Spanish-American War.
4. The Hawaiian Islands are the most geographically isolated island chain on Earth. More than 2,000 miles away from any other place, Hawai’i is the most isolated island chain on Earth, so it’s no wonder our unique flora, fauna, and frankly, grocery prices, tend to amaze people. Hawai’i’s ecosystem developed in almost total isolation, making it more endemic than even the Galapagos Islands. 5. The Hawaiian alphabet only has 12 letters. For non-native speakers and tourists, Hawaiian names can be a challenge.
Hawai’i’s annexation followed soon after and eventually statehood in 1959. 2. 137 islands make up the Hawaiian Islands. In Hawai’i, there are eight major islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawai’i Island, Kauai, Lana’i, Moloka’i, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. In total, Hawai’i is comprised of 137 islands including the major eight, islets, atolls, and reefs.
The reason why might be because the Hawaiian alphabet only contains 12 letters. 6. There are no snakes in Hawai‘i. Hawai’i has worked hard to keep snakes out of the state in order to protect native birds and other species. Those found smuggling snakes into the state can face three years in jail and fines upwards of $200,000. 7. There are no billboards in Hawai’i. The first of four states to ban billboards, Hawai’i enjoys wide open spaces free from billboards so that our residents can enjoy distraction-free, scenic driving.
3. Hawai’i has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones. On Hawai’i Island alone, you can find all 10 zones: from tropical and continuously wet to hot desert and periglacial ice climates, you see and experience pretty much everything Earth has to offer on one island.
8. Gambling is illegal in Hawai’i. Hawai’i doesn’t have casinos, nor does it allow for gambling onboard a ship, or anyplace gambling activities can take place. Hawai’i doesn’t have the lottery either, so the price to live in paradise won’t be covered by your lottery win.
PAGE 21
See HAWAII continued on next page
HAWAII continued from previous page
9. Everyone in Hawai’i is a minority. Hawaiian, Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Portuguese, African American — What do all of these ethnicities have in common? In Hawai’i, they are all minorities.
Key West claims the southernmost part of the continental US, but South Point on Hawai’i Island, with its green sand beach and giant cliffs spilling into the Pacific, is the southernmost point of the entire United States.
The Native Hawaiian population decreased dramatically after western contact by Captain Cook in 1778 brought influenza, smallpox, and sexually transmitted diseases.
13. Hawai’i is the only US state that grows coffee. Hawai’i Island grows a majority of coffee, with the Kona district growing the bulk of it. Coffee does well in Hawai’i’s warm, tropical climate, high elevations, and rich soil.
Further, in the 1850s, immigrants from Japan, China, Korea, and the Philippines began arriving to work in the growing and successful sugar business on sugarcane fields throughout the islands.
Kona coffee has earned a reputation of being exceptionally aromatic and tasty, making it one of the most expensive coffees in the world.
While sugar production is now a retired practice in the islands, many families have rooted themselves here, becoming the diverse population known as Hawai’i’s melting pot.
14. Hawai’i does not observe Daylight Savings Time. When the rest of the US springs ahead or falls behind, adjusting their clocks an hour forward or backward, Hawai’i’s clocks stay exactly the same. Hawai’i observes its own time zone, Hawai’i Standard Time.
10. All beaches are public in Hawai’i. Much to the joy of residents and tourists alike, all beaches are public access in Hawaii. Residents or businesses who attempt to obstruct public access to beaches can face hefty fines. 11. Oahu has a small population of wallabies living in Kalihi Valley. A popular urban myth that a small group of wallabies, native to Australia, are living in Hawai’i has been proven with several sightings of this elusive marsupial. Said to have escaped from the Honolulu Zoo, a pair of wallabies grew their small population, which now live mostly in Kalihi Valley on Oahu. 12. The southernmost part of the United States is actually on Hawai’i Island.
15. Hawai’i is the only state whose landmass is growing due to volcanic eruptions. Perhaps one of the best things about Hawai’i is that its landmass is not finite: Hawai’i continues to grow. The Hawaiian Islands are formed due to being situated atop a geothermal “hot spot” deep under the ocean’s surface. Hawai’i Island is home to Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, which is continuously erupting. The lava that spurts up hits sea level and creates new landmass, meaning there is more Hawai’i being made every day.
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PARALLELS continued from page 4
Republic of the Marshall Islands.
an independent country. What would be better or worse?
These Pacific Territories and Freely Associated States have tight connections with the US.
Today’s struggle amongst the super powers and Hawai’i’s strategic geographical position in the Pacific could mean very different fates for us.
I have traveled and worked extensively in these areas and can tell you that without representation, these areas struggle and do not have all the benefits like being a State but at least are protected by the US.
Are we better off being protected by the US, or could we be treated better by another super power?
Other small independent island countries in the Pacific Ocean today have some affiliation with a superpower country. Island countries like Tuvalu, Nauru, Kiribati, have signed alliances with the US, Australia, UK and others. These countries all have similar fates to that of Hawai’i.
Do the people of Hawai’i believe in the same causes that are going on in the United States today, some at the point of chaos and bloodshed. I know one thing for sure, Hawai’i has much more respectable people who protest and make their views known peacefully. I ask you to think if protestors reflect your views and beliefs. Are Hawai’i’s peaceful protests successful in effecting awareness and change? These are many parallels of what is happening in the country and even the world today.
Due to the lack of natural resources and sustainable exports, these countries have become reliant on external activities such as tourism, serving as a detention center, plantations, and financial assistance.
Today, one has to figure out if protests reflect my views and desires? Do I want to get involved in civil unrest or even violence and destruction? Is it going to achieve what I believe in?
Many of these island countries were also explored and even exploited by Spain, Portugal, Russia, Great Britain, France, Japan, Germany, and the United States throughout their history and reflect this contact in their culture.
Will it backfire and cause just the opposite of the outcome I want? One has to ask oneself how far am I willing to go to effect desired change.
So let me postulate, that if Hawai’i was not part of the US, it could be part of another country or PAGE 23
ARRIVALS and DEPARTURES Each month, we feature this section in our newsletter called “Arrivals and Departures,” spotlighting new employees (Arrivals) and retiring employees (Departures). It is an honor to welcome the new employees and congratulate the retiring employees and wish both groups the best in their future endeavors.
ARRIVALS
E Komo Mai!
NAME TITLE SHANNON R.A. BAILEY JANITOR II SIONE KELI JR HEAVY TRUCK DRIVER LEITAN-LEE KAILI-MAUHILI PROPERTY MGR 2
DEPARTURES
DIVISION HAR AIR HAR
ISLAND OAHU OAHU OAHU
DATE 07/01/20 07/06/20 07/16/20
Mahalo Nui Loa!
NAME TITLE DIVISION ISLAND DATE MANNY B. QUODALA ENGINEER III HWY OAHU 07/01/20 TERENCE DANA PLANAS JANITOR III AIR KAUAI 07/01/20 KENNETH W. SANTIAGO BLDG CONST INSPECTOR III AIR OAHU 07/01/20 CLYDE I. HIGA MECHANIAL REPAIR WKR HWY OAHU 07/01/20 KELSEY K. HIGA MTR CARR SAFETY OFC III HWY OAHU 07/01/20 LYONS M. DEGUAIR AIR MNT & REPAIR SUP AIR HAWAII 07/01/20 DAVID D. BERNABE AIR OPER & MAINT WKR AIR MOLOKAI 07/01/20 HOWARD A. ISHIMI AUTOMOTIVE MECH HELPER AIR OAHU 07/01/20 BEVERLY L. CHUN ENGINEERING TECH V HWY OAHU 07/01/20 PAGE 24
....::___
MA ERNATI
.,_.
WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE
www.toastmasters.org
DAY:
1st & 3rd Tuesdays via ZOOM TIME: Noon to 1 pm
CONTACT:
Royden Koito or Lynn Araki-Regan
PHONE:
586-9153 or 808-280-1299
EMAIL:
TransportationToastmasters@gmail.com
KAISER PERMANENTE 2020 LIVE WEBINARS
Why Sleep Matters* Sleeping well is vital to good health and well-being New research is helping us understand the connection between quality sleep and overall health and well-being. Attend a one-hour webinar that will focus on simple and effective tools to improve your ability to rest, relax, and sleep.
Date Thursday, August 20, 2020 Wednesday, August 26, 2020
Time
Registration
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (HST)
Register here
Noon - 1 p.m. (HST)
Register here
To register for one of the webinar sessions, click on the register here link. • New Users - enter the sign-up code "EUTF" under the "New users" heading • Returning Users - enter your email address and password under "Returning users" * Webinars are open to all city, state, and county employees regardless of your health plan affiliation.
kp.org/eutf
KAISER PERMANENTE JUNE LIVE WEBINARS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are webinars open to all city, state, and county employees?
Will the webinars be recorded and made available after the session?
Yes, each webinar is available to all city, state, and county employees regardless of your health plan affiliation.
Yes, each registered participant will receive an email with a link to access the webinar recording for up to 3 months after the date of the webinar.
How do I register for a webinar?
Will Kaiser Permanente report my participation in the webinar?
To register for a webinar, click on the webinar registration link. • New users -- enter the sign-up code “EUTF” under the “New users” heading, then click on the submit button. Provide the requested information to create your account. • Returning users -- enter your email address and password then click on the submit button. Choose your event.
We will only provide EUTF with an aggregate report of the total number of participants by employer. Individual names of the registered participants won’t be reported. How do I join a webinar?
After you register, you'll receive a confirmation email with a link to access the webinar.
On the day of the webinar, click the Webex link provided in your confirmation email (about 10 minutes before the scheduled start time is recommended) and you will see the welcome screen for the webinar. You can join a meeting from your computer or mobile device.
Is there a participant limit for the webinars?
•
If this is the first time you’re joining a Webex meeting, Webex automatically downloads the app. Click the installer file to install the app. You can also manually download the Webex Meetings app.
•
Click here for the full system requirements.
•
For additional assistance, click here for the Webex online help center.
Yes, the maximum participation for each webinar is 500 participants. If your first choice is closed due to the maximum participation limit, please select another session. Will my video or audio be on during the webinar? No, participant video will be disabled during the webinar. In addition, the instructor will mute all participants once the session begins and will unmute you during the Q&A.
Visit kp.org/coronavirus for information to help protect yourself and your loved ones and get the latest updates and guidance on COVID-19.
kp.org/eutf 515158654ST-20 | June 2020
©2020 Kaiser Permanente Health Plan, Inc.
Well-being 101
How do you take care of your whole self? This workshop will help you evaluate your lifestyle and take small steps that can lead to big improvements in your well-being.
Well-being 101 Webinar Wednesday, August 19, 2020 at 12:00 noon Webex link will be sent to you at a later date Register here: https://signup.com/go/qcyiKN
4000-139510 10:19 JR
August 2020 Taking Care of the Human Side of Hawaii Businesses
Preparing to Go Back to School
A
re you feeling anxious about ensuring a smooth transition for keiki going back to school? After their lengthy absence, you may need to be more deliberate. Start to introduce daily routines and earlier bedtimes in preparation for the big day. Start winding down screen use an hour before bedtime, and consider having family evening meals together at a specific time to create a familiar structure going forward. Try a midday quiet-time period for reading/drawing that also can help manage stress and reduce anxiety. See www.sleepeducation.org for recommended keiki sleep requirements. Source: www.healthy children.orgforCOVID-19preventionmeasures [Search “sleep, children, behavior”]
Managing “COVID Fatigue”
A
fter months of social distancing, lockdowns, favorite businesses being shuttered, and a lot fewer places to go for recreation, meals, and entertainment, are you feeling “COVID fatigue”? The term was first coined in July, but the condition appears to be real. Feeling bottled up, intensely irritable, and frustrated are the symptoms, but it is also compounded by grief for the loss of a way life you once knew and anxiety associated with not knowing when it will return. COVID fatigue may place you at risk for increased substance use, poor diet, mismanaging a health condition, poor exercise, domestic abuse, relationship disharmony, depression, and generally putting plans for your life on hold. Don’t settle for the consequences of COVID fatigue. Take action with help from a professional counselor or other guidance that empowers you to take charge. Source: Winknews.com [Search “COVID fatigue”]
Alcoholics Anonymous and COVID-19
AA
figured out how to carry its message of hope and recovery to alcoholics worldwide a long time ago, and the online portal it established could not be more timely in the era of COVID-19 social distancing. Over 1,000 meetings are a click away. To use the no-cost service, visit www.aa-intergroup.org/oiaa/ meetings. You can search meetings worldwide by language, time, day, special need/disability, gender preferences, type of meeting, phone, video, and many other parameters. Source: www.aa.org [click link: “Updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)”
Don’t Mess with Melanoma
M
elanoma is the most common cause of cancer death for women between the ages of 25-30. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women between the ages of 30-35. Melanoma does not discriminate by age, race, or gender. And it does not appear only on the skin. It can appear anywhere—even nails, eyes, or the mouth. Ninety percent of melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet light, so protect yourself using SPF 30 (or higher) sun protection. Fact: Use of tanning beds by those under 30 years old will increase the lifetime risk of melanoma by 75%. Source: www.melanoma.org.
August 2020
Page 2
Reduce Screen Time and Be More Productive
O
ne out of five adults averages over 40 hours a week online. Most average 24 hours. Who wouldn’t agree that at this rate, it is easy for life to pass you by? Reduce screen time without losing productivity by first adding up the hours spent online for a week in order to gain awareness. (This first step alone will reduce time online!) Next, seek to eliminate distractions, including email clicks and hyperlinks to browsers and distracting URLs and social media, etc. Make it more difficult to reach these locations. Experiment with “no-phone” zones in your home—places where you commit to not using a phone. It won’t be easy, but that’s the point. Key to your success is finding a compelling, enjoyable activity—a useful and exciting one—to substitute for being online. This will create the long-term change you’re looking for and will prevent a “cyber relapse.” Reference: study by www.commonsensemedia.org. [Search “common sense consensus 2019”]
Stress Management Tip: Reframing
R
eframing is a mental strategy to overcome the distress of negative or disappointing events. Reframing starts with a key question: What positive can come from this undesirable event? The goal is to change the way you think about and view undesirable situations. For example, if you don’t get the job or promotion, what is the positive outcome of not being chosen might now exist? Reframing works because it changes images in your mind, and these direct your feelings and sensations. Reframing builds personal resilience to disappointment, and it’s a teachable skill. Reframing is used unconsciously by everyone, but purposely employed, it will get you out of pain faster. It is especially useful for children to learn the strategy.
Taking Charge and Facing the “New Normal”
E
veryone knows dramatic changes have occurred in the way we live as a result of COVID-19. No one knows for certain what a “new normal” will look like in the future when the lockdowns and social isolation are over and the ultimate shifts in the world of work finally arrive. Perhaps normalcy will return, but one thing can be counted on: Coping with change requires actionable steps that work. Those steps can help you adapt to whatever happens next. The Steps : 1) Accept that change creates stress. Design a personal stress management program that offers resilience and helps you cope with uncertainty, changes in the way you work, changes in the way you think (i.e., fear, worry, catastrophizing, etc.), and how these things affect your mood and your relationships. Reach out to resources and your EAP to accomplish this. 2) Don’t go with the flow. Be proactive, and make choices to help you cope and respond at home and work to maintain personal and job productivity. The analogy is preparing for a hurricane. Either you can wait by the radio and be told what to do, or you can take action steps to feel empowered and be in control of outcomes while listening to the weather on the radio at the same time. One approach will empower you, improve resilience, and give you a sense of control and direction in the ultimate outcome. 3) As you experience stressors associated with change, make decisions about how you will cope and maintain control in spite of them. Avoid being a victim of change, often signaled by looking around at what others are doing in order to decide what to do next. 4) Discuss and process these steps for remaining proactive with family, friends, and loved ones. Better ideas and solutions, a feeling of security, and staying positive generally result from these interactions. 5) Expect and anticipate your positive future despite what is happening. Don’t allow the inability to predict or know what the future holds to lead you into catastrophic thinking and its immobilizing effect and undermine your life plans.
Taking Care of the Human Side of Hawaii’s Businesses A Division of Child and Family Service
Your Local Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (808) 543-8445 Neighbor Islands and After Hours: (800) 994-3571 www.WorkLifeHawaii.org Central Office: 1001 Bishop St., Ste. 780 Honolulu, HI 96813
Information contained herein is for general information purposes only and is not intended to replace the counsel or advice of a qualified health or legal professional. For further help, questions, or referral to community resources for specific problems/concerns, consult with your EA Professional. © 2011 DFA Publishing & Consulting, LLC
