State of Hawaii Department of Transportation May 2021 Newsletter

Dept. of Transportation Monthly Newsletter

Connecting the DOTs...

May 2021

The Biggest Losers of HDOT ’s Weight Loss Challenge By: Melanie Martin Congratulations to all of the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) employees who participated in the weight loss challenge. The 1st place male winner was Christian Brock who lost 8.68% of his overall body weight and the 1st place female winner was Karen Awana, who lost 8.14% of her overall body weight during the eight (8) week challenge from January to March.

There were nine teams that entered and seven made it across the finish line. The winning team was Lihue Airport “Men” Tenance comprised of Christian Brock and Richard Perreira. In total, participants lost 209.2 pounds!

Christian Brock (AIR-K) 1st Place Male Winner

Christian: “My lifestyle didn’t change much. I don’t drink soda or sugary drinks, only coffee and H2O. I don’t drink alcohol or smoke. I am a pescatarian, no dairy, no red meat diet.”

Q: Did you cut out anything from your diet?

Christian: “I cut out all sugar from my diet. I wasn’t a big candy guy to begin with, so it wasn’t hard. No creamer in my morning coffee. I cut out the second cup of coffee to sip on all day long.

I’d only have a handful of peanuts and a single saltine for breakfast. No oreos after lunch. No snacks on the drive home, only maybe an apple or 2 small bananas. I have one full plate of food for dinner, no seconds. I cut out white rice all t together, only smaller portions of brown rice if n needed.

No honey Greek yogurt with granola a frozen berries after dinner. I am going to and k keep at this new healthier diet that I have adopte ed.”

Q What exercise plan did you follow, if any?

Q: C Christian: “I started to do pull-ups again. I used t be in great shape when I was surfing and padto d dling everyday. So I think I just had to re-wake u those muscles. The first week I could only up d about 2-3 pull-ups. Now, being 15 pounds do li lighter, a set of 10 doesn’t seem that difficult.

T pull-ups definitely started to get easier as The

Q: What lifestyle changes did you make to lose weight?

See BIGGEST LOSERS on page 9

Contents

CONNECTING THE DOTs Editor-in-Chief: Lynn Araki-Regan Managing Editor: Rae Nguyen Copy Editors: Juli Chun Daniel Garcia

Column Writers: Jade Butay Rey Domingo Melanie Martin Lee Nagano Darren Cantrill

Biggest Losers ..................... 1 Director’s Message ............. 3 Administration .................... 4 Airports ...............................12

Contributors: George Abcede Derek Chow Jai Cunningham Shelly Kunishige Tammy Lee Dr. Pradip Pant Zach Wadsack

Harbors ...............................14 Highways ............................15 Arrivals & Departures ...... 23 Graduates ...........................24

2021 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 by May 21, 2021.

Recipe of the Month: Asian Fusion Tofu Salad By: Juli Chun

6-8 Servings; 30 mins prep; 40 mins total INGREDIENTS 2 Blocks of Tofu (Medium or Firm), in 1-inch cubes 1 Bunch Watercress (or Kale), chopped 1 Bag of Soy Sprouts, rinse and trim tails 4-5 Roma Tomatoes, diced 6 oz Taegu, cut into small lengths 10 slices Takuan (Spicy or Regular), diced in small pieces 2 stalks Green Onion, finely chopped

o o o o o o o

SAUCE ½ Cup – Oil ¼ Cup – Shoyu 1 Tbsp – Sesame Oil ¼ Cup – Chopped Garlic (5 cloves) DIRECTIONS • Layer ingredients in deep dish or container in the following order from bottom:

Tofu Watercress Soy Sprouts Tomato Taegu Takuan Green Onion

• Mix sauce in jar or sealed container, and shake well. Leave at room temperature, DO NOT refrigerate sauce. Pour sauce over salad 5 minutes before serving.

PAGE 2

Message from our Director By: Jade Butay Aloha HDOT ‘Ohana: Please join me in congratulating the Class of 2021 as we enter graduation season! This month’s issue features our HDOT ‘Ohana graduates and their achievements as some of them move into the next stage of life—that is, joining the workforce, paying taxes, and death. All joking aside, we are pleased to hear their positive stories.

Another positive is the launch of the intercounty vaccination travel program on May 11. Screening for this is led by the counties, but here are the basics: • Intercounty Vaccination Travel Program starts May 11 for those who were fully vaccinated in Hawai‘i.

• Fully vaccinated means it has been two weeks or more since you received your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or your single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

• Travelers can begin uploading a digital image of their CDC vaccination card to the Safe Travels platform on May 7 for interisland travel taking place on or before May 11.

•

Please check the county websites for more information on their requirements and rules: o o o

https://www.hawaiicounty.gov/coronavirus https://www.mauinuistrong.info/travel https://kauai.gov/COVID-19

• The intercounty vaccination travel program is another option, if you meet the requirements (fully vaccinated in Hawaii with proof of vaccination on your CDC card). The intercounty pretesting and essential worker exemptions are also available as an alternative to a 10-day travel quarantine.

Our newsletter team has included information on how to request a replacement vaccination card. If you need information on vaccine appointments, go to https://hawaiicovid19.com/vaccine-info/.

Jade Butay Director

PAGE 3

Administration Politeness through Pronouns

By: Zach Wadsack

Have you seen pronouns such as he/him, or she/ her on name tags or in email signatures? If you have, this is because there is a growing movement of announcing one’s pronouns to eliminate guessing, and to allow everyone the chance to share the pronouns they associate with.

You wouldn’t guess someone’s name based on how they look or act, and you would most likely not just throw a name out there to see if they respond kindly. Even worse, they may not feel comfortable enough to correct your error resulting in ongoing discomfort. It stands to reason that we should view pronouns in the same manner. By sharing the pronouns we associate ourselves with, much like our names, we invite others to share theirs.

It is a polite and respectful way to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and is being referred to in a manner they associate or identify with. It is almost impossible to speak about someone without using pronouns. Most commonly, when speaking about a male we use “He”, and “She” for a female. If we rely on assumptions that our use of these pronouns is correct, we are potentially making someone feel really uncomfortable, and sending a harmful message that how we

look or act matters more than how we feel and think.

Furthermore, not everyone identifies with the binary (male or female) pronouns most commonly used, and could identify with multiple different pronouns. By sharing your pronouns, you provide an opportunity to allow others to express options other than he/she, and you generate an open environment of respect and inclusiveness.

Thus, avoiding the negative and oppressive notion that transgender, intersex, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people do not, or should not, exist.

So the next time you send an email or fill out a name tag, add a line that provides whichever pronouns you personally identify with, such as “Pronouns: he/him/his,” or “Pronouns: She/her/ hers.” Or, introduce yourself by using “Hi, my name is, and I associate with these pronouns.” It is a polite gesture and helps to show inclusiveness, respect, and builds awareness. More information on the importance of pronouns, and why pronouns matter, can be found at https://www. mypronouns.org.

PAGE 4

Administration It’s about that time -- 2021 Hurricane Season

By: Darren Cantrill

Did you know that the only difference between a hurricane and a typhoon is the location where the storm occurs?

A hurricane is actually one of three kinds of tropical storms, or cyclones, that circulate over tropical waters. The circulation is counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere. Tropical cyclones are classified as follows: 1.

Tropical depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph (33 knots) or less.

2.

Tropical storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (34 to 63 knots).

3.

Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system with a well-defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (64 knots) or higher. In the western Pacific, hurricanes are called typhoons. Similar storms in the Indian Ocean are called cyclones. Hurricanes are further classified by rank according to how strong their winds are.

The 2021 hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th (but can occur at any time of the year). Hawaii hurricane season traditionally starts to ramp up in July and goes through September.

Difference between a WATCH and a WARNING: A hurricane watch is declared when there is a threat of possible hurricane conditions at any time within the next 36 hours.

The next four names slated to be used in 2021 are Hone, Iona, Keli, and Lala.

A hurricane warning is declared when hurricane conditions are expected at any time within the next 24 hours.

A great source of information on building a Disaster Kit can be found oun und d at at:: ht https://www.ready.gov/kit. h htt ttps:// //www ready // d gov/k /ki kit kit Hurricanes are classified on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based on the hurricane’s present intensity. This is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale, as storm surge values are highly dependent on the slope of the continental shelf in the landfall region. Wind speeds are measured using a 1-minute average.

PAGE 5

Administration Sugamoto Leaves Airports to Joins STP Office

By: Dr. Pradip Pant

Association, but fate would lead A him to HDOT in 2017. Ryan h sspent the last 4 years working in the Airports Division Engineering th Construction section managing Co over $100M worth of Capital ov Improvement Projects at the Ellison Im Onizuka Kona International Airport On at Keahole.

Transferring from Airports Division, Ryan Sugamoto joins the Statewide Transportation Planning Office Programming Section (STP-P) as an Engineer V. Ryan began his career as a student hire working on the GIS system at the Board of Water Supply, and after a summer in LA as an intern for Hughes Space and Communications, he decided to stay in Hawai’i upon graduating from the University of Hawai’i - Manoa. Ryan worked in th the llocall private sector doing HVAC and Fire Protection design until 2003, and subsequently returned to the College of Engineering Mechanical Engineering Department to manage DoD-funded corrosion research projects for 14 years. Ryan enjoyed research, mentoring young engineers, and being active in the Engineering Alumni

Ryan is very grateful for his job Rya as a “civil servant”, and for the help he has received from others hel throughout his career. He is determined to pay th h t hi it forward and excited to begin his new position at STP-P. Outside of work, Ryan enjoys spending time with family, community service activities, visiting friends and relatives in Japan, taking photos, and hopes to finish his Ph.D dissertation.

Premium Conversion Plan Open Enrollment

Extended Deadline:

May 14, 2021

By: Rey Domingo

The Premium Conversion Plan Open Enrollment (PCP-OE) has been extended to May 14, 2021 to coincide with the EUTF’s extended open enrollment period. PCP is a voluntary benefit program that allows you to deduct your health plan premiums on a pre-tax basis. When you enroll in PCP, your income will be taxed after your health benefits contributions are deducted, so your take-home pay should be greater than if you do not enroll. The PCP-OE is a good time for you to decide whether the PCP continues to best meet your needs as it is the only time when you will be allowed to enroll, change, or cancel your PCP election for any reason; otherwise you will have to wait until the next designated open enrollment period or have an allowable IRS-

qualified change in status event (e.g., marriage, birth of child, etc.).

If you decide to keep your current health plans and do not wish to make any changes to your PCP election, then you don’t need to take any action. You are not required to complete any forms to continue your current coverage.

If you are making changes to your EUTF health plans during the OE, you must complete the Plan Selection section of the EC-1 (or EC-1H for those enrolled in the HSTA VB benefit plans) to indicate your election choice to “Cancel/Waive”

PAGE 6

See OPEN ENROLLMENT on page 7

Administration STP Receives 3rd Round of COVID-19 Relief Funding By: Dr. Pradip Pant On March 11, 2021, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) was signed into law. It includes $30.46 billion to support the nation’s public transportation systems as they continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and support the President’s call to vaccinate the United States population.

HDOT, through the Statewide Transportation Planning office, has been apportioned $13,457,829.

As a condition of the ARP, priority will be given to support payroll and operating expenses. Similar to the previous two relief acts, the supplemental funding will be provided at a 100-percent federal share, with no local match required.

Kahului, Maui (small urban area) transit program will receive $8,136,433 support, while

$ 5,158,524 is targeted for transit programs serving the islands of Kauai, Hawaii, and Maui (rural areas). This Act also provides funding of $162,872 for private non-profit groups who meet the transportation needs of older adults and people with disabilities.

OPEN ENROLLMENT from page 6

or “Enroll” in the Premium Conversion Plan. If no election is made (i.e., left blank) the PCP election shall default to “Not Enrolled”. A fillable EC-1 form is at: https://eutf.hawaii.gov/wp-content/ uploads/2019/03/EC-1-Form-2019-fillablesecured.pdf.

Submit your forms to your division or department Personnel Office no later than May 14, 2021.

For more information or to request for a copy of the PCP Plan Document, visit: http://dhrd. hawaii.gov/blog/premium-conversion-planpcp-open-enrollment-period-april-1-throughapril-30-2021/.

(The PCP is administered by the Department of Human Resources Development).

PAGE 7

Administration Welcome to HDOT, Jai Cunningham!

If the name sounds familiar it’s because you welcomed him into your house for more than a quarter century! Jai Cunningham is the new Department of Transportation’s Public Information Officer.

He worked in television at KHON2 for 26 years, departing g the station in the summer of 2018 for a new challenge. And boy do we mean a CHALLENGE! Jai spentt the last two and a half lf years as an Information on Specialist with HART, the agency charged with building Oahu’s rail system.

Jai is thrilled to be on board now with the DOT and looks forward to meeting all his new coworkers.

By: Juli Chun In his spare time Jai likes to crossfit, li and his gym is right behind Kawaiahao beh Church, so it’s a nice, Chu close clos walk.

Jai is the proud father of two girls, fat Chay, on the Ch right, rig is a junior in high hig school and a cheerleader.

Cara, Ca on the left, will w soon be off to college. She has h earned a nomination to n the t U.S. Military Academy at West A Point. Jai said that the g girls obviously get their looks from their mother, whom he mother Carla, C has been married to for 24 years.

Jai’s office is #112 on the ground floor, so don’t hesitate to stop by and say hello!

PAGE 8

Administration

BIGGEST LOSERS from cover page

I began losing weight. Being an electrician at Lihue Airport, every day at work, I walk at least 3 miles, fixing items. I also have 2 young children at home, so they keep me moving after work. I started to do a morning routine, very common in Japan, called Radio Taiso. It is a series of stretches to wake up and loosen the body. I highly recommend it. It only takes a few minutes to do.”

Q: How did you stay motivated during the challenge?

Christian: “The $ dollar prize was definitely a motivator in itself, but, once I started to see the pounds disappear, the quality of life started to be the motivation. Also, having a partner to do the challenge with, made me feel more accountable to do my best. In general, moving around started becoming easier and seeing my double chin disappear was great. It was putting a smile on my face. Don’t get me wrong, the first weeks were hard. I constantly felt hungry. Then once I started to see the results on the scale, I thought to myself, you got this, just keep pushing. I never thought that I could win this challenge. Just losing my “baby weight” was what I wanted to accomplish. Feeling more comfortable and confident in my own skin is the best prize.”

Q: What advice do you have for other HDOT employees who want to lose weight for better health?

Christian: “If you stay focused and have a clean mind. You are capable of anything. Why can’t I do this ?? I CAN do this !! I read somewhere the Japanese say, that one of the keys to old age is to only eat until you are 80 % FULL. Don’t over indulge. I keep that thought in my head every meal.”

Karen Awana (OCR) 1st Place Female Winner

lose weight? Did you cut out anything from your diet?

Karen: “I decreased my starch and sugar intake and ate more vegetables and fish. I’ve found that if I cut something out totally, I would focus on the thing I should be omitting. My eating schedule has also changed. I refrain from eating after 6:00 pm. I’ll drink water or tea in the evening.

That seems to help.”

Q: What exercise plan did you follow, if any?

Karen: “Use my stationary bike at home for an hour in the morning. At work, I make sure to stretch periodically, use my workstation in the standing position for at least 3 hours, take a short walk during lunch and breaks and most importantly - stay hydrated. I also schedule brisk walks in the afternoon. On the weekends, I stay busy cleaning and running errands. Less time is spent on my phone and in front of the television.”

Q: How did you stay motivated during the challenge?

Karen: “Instead of being motivated, being mindful about my actions have worked better for me.

The conscious effort of making the right decisions and changing my habits have helped lead me to positive outcomes.”

Q: What advice do you have for other HDOT employees who want to lose weight for better health?

Karen: “Be mindful of your portion size. Your entire plate does not need to be covered before you partake. Eat until you are satisfied, not until you are too full to eat. If you eat a little slower, you will realize that you’ve probably put too See BIGGEST LOSERS on next page

Q: What lifestyle changes did you make to PAGE 9

Administration BIGGEST LOSERS from page 9

much food on your plate.”

Choose your food and drink wisely. I didn’t realize it until my adult daughter shared with me that she was not raised in a home with chips, cookies, and other salt and sugar filled snacks.

There was a reason for this. First, I was a single mom living on a shoestring budget. Second, I chose healthy foods and snacks consisted of fruits and vegetables.

We have been told at a young age to, “Eat everything on that plate.” You are hereby given permission to leave the food on your plate and walk away or throw away if you are done. The trash can doesn’t gain weight or diet, but you will if you overdo it.

I realize everyone has their own set of circumstances and the path to weight loss is a personal journey. Be safe and don’t beat yourself up or give up if you don’t achieve your desired results.

Success does not come overnight. Be persistent and stay strong.”

Richard Perreira (AIR-K) 1st Place Team Member

Q: What lifestyle changes did you make to lose weight?

Richard: “Meal prep and exercise” Q: Did you cut out anything from your diet?

Richard: “I cut out rice.”

Q: What exercise plan did you follow, if any?

Richard: “Just running and lifting weights.”

Q: How did you stay motivated during the challenge?

Richard: “I did it with my son.”

Q: What advice do you have for other HDOT employees who want to lose weight for better health?

Richard: “You just have to put your mind into it and keep going forward. Don’t look back. Always have a positive attitude to hit your goals.”

Leitan Kaili-Mauhili Honorable Mention Leitan lost the most weight in the weight loss challenge.

Q: What did you do to lose weight?

Leitan: “Eating in moderation, and exercising was a challenge. I was able to do more cardio in the process, because I’ve put a stop to overeating.”

Melanie: What kept you motivated?

Leitan: “My motivation was the idea of being See BIGGEST LOSERS on next page PAGE 10

Administration BIGGEST LOSERS from page 10

healthy enough to complete physical daily tasks.

In the process, I’ve became stronger, flexible, and a lot more energetic.”

Shannon: “ I’ve always wanted to join a challenge to help me stay focused. Starting keto was gonna help kick start my journey. I cut out all Q: What advice do you have for others on starch and sugar. My exercise plan was to jump their weight loss journey? back on Body Boss, a book I follow with 7 workouts 7mins x3, mon & wed). I stayed motivated 6 Leitan: “Start with the smallest goal, then achieve days a week because I really wanted to get more it. Repetition is key. As long as you can come up toned. I did fall off the track every sunday, but I with a daily routine, and keep to it, anything is never gave up! My advice to other people who possible.” want to get healthy is start when you’re ready, not because other people are telling you to get healthy. It takes 21 days to make something a Shannon Bailey (HAR-O) habit. Start with keto and some light exercises, Honorable Mention then work your way up. Although this challenge is over, I tried to eat rice the night after weighing iin and I just couldn’t do it. Your eating habits will d definitely change.”

Justin Acosta Honorable Mention J Justin came in as one of the top three finishers of tthe weight loss challenge.

Shannon finished second overall in the weight loss challenge and her team, Weight Warriors, came in 2nd place.

JJustin: “My only advice that I would give someone who is serious about going on a weight o lloss journey is to set a goal and be disciplined iin sticking to it.” In the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger, “If you don’t find the time, if S yyou don’t do the work, you don’t get results.”

PAGE 11

Airports Meet Airports’ Accountant III Amber Nakamoto Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your career?

My parents. My Dad always been the one to push my sister and I to work harder when you’re younger so that you don’t have to work as hard when you’re “old.” He tells us he always will support us in our decisions and that no matter what he will always love us and do anything he can to help us reach our goals. My Mom is the one who tells us to always be humble and work hard even if nobody is watching because “someone is always watching.” She tells us not to compare yourself to anyone because it’s not about where you came from, it’s about where you end up going.

Q: What are 3 things that you love to do?

• Playing volleyball on weekends at the park • Working in the yard • Taking surf photography of my boyfriend and our friends Q: Any background work history and anything you would like to share on what brought you to the HDOT? I graduated from UH with a bachelors in accounting in 2015 and started working for a public accounting firm, KKDLY LLC. After working a few tax seasons, I realized I wanted to take my experience and expand it by working for the State Tax Office. My biggest hesitation was a significant pay cut. With the support of my family, I went from being a public accountant to a State Tax Collector in November 2017. After working as a collector for a few years I realized I wanted something more challenging and I realized I was not able to advance in the collections department. I started applying for accountant positions

in December 2019 thinking I could start 2020 with a new job. After numerous interviews, COVID-19 9 started becoming serious in March 2020. The e two interviews that seemed most promising were from the Tax Office and from the Airport. Days after I interviewed for both, I was told there was a hiring freeze, and that they would not be able to offer me the position and so I was on stand by for what seemed like forever. A few months had passed and the Tax Office asked me if I wanted to TA as an Accountant III and I immediately said yes. My current Supervisor, Bertman Lee reached out to me in December 2020 to say the hiring freeze has been lifted for the DOT and asked if I was still interested and I said yes. Shortly after my Supervisor whom I was TA-ing as an Accountant III at the Tax Office said the Governor approved to lift the freeze for my position and told me to apply. You can imagine my stress level at the time when I received two offers at the same time. After all the anxiety, advice, and stress, I realized that my career goal is to advance as much as I can and I would not be able to do so at the Tax Office. It is now the ending of April 2021 and I’m happy to say I’ve been here for 3 months and enjoy working with everyone here.

PAGE 12

Airports Hawaiian Airlines debuts flight g to Austin, TX

By: Jai Cunningham

Hawaiian Airlines kicked off a new route on Wednesday, April 21 between the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu and Austin, TX, with Hawaiian music and hula dancers greeting the first passengers. The twice weekly flights will open a new market to Hawai‘i.

The flights will put Hawaiian Airlines into the strong Texas market, “We’re thrilled to be the

first carrier to provide nonstop flights between Central Texas and Hawai‘i,” said Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram.

The new route will bring Texans to Hawai’i’s warm shores, and vice versa, Hawai’i resident can travel to the Lone Star State and enjoy that delicious barbecue.

PAGE 13

Harbors Congressman Ed Case visits new Kapalama Container Terminal Project

By: Derek Chow

L to R: Kneeling – William Makanui, KCT Project Manager. Standing – Ben Ahakuelo, Yogi Kwong Engineers; Dean Watase, Senior Planner; Dung Vo, Deputy Engineering Program Manager; Arnold Liu, Planning Section Head; Congressman Ed Case; HDOT Director Jade Butay; Harbors Deputy Director Derek Chow; and Carter Luke, Engineering Program Manager.

O A On Aprilil 8 8, 2021 2021, US Congressman C Ed C Case was hosted by the Hawaii Dept of Transportation to a briefing and site visit of the Kapalama Container Terminal and future modification features in Honolulu Harbor that would address sea level rise and incorporate resiliency into new harbor features. Dung Vo, Deputy Engineering Program Manager, explained how the new Kapalama Container Terminal will increase cargo handling efficiencies and that the construction project would be completed in early 2024 at a total cost of over $500M. Dean Watase, Senior Planner, explained how sea level rise will require major improvements to existing pier structures and may cause changes in cargo handling, however, a

lock/dam system that l k/d t th t controls t l water t llevels l iinside id the harbor even with the ocean rising, would eliminate the need to adjust pier structures and avoid operational disruptions.

Congressman Case was keenly aware of the need to adapt to sea level rise and for a secondary inlet/outlet to Honolulu Harbor should the main channel become blocked like what happened at the Suez Canal when a 1,312 ft cargo ship turned sideways in the channel. He indicated that seeking federal assistance for needed modifications and improvements in Honolulu Harbor were amongst his top priorities.

PAGE 14

Highways A Commendation Letter from Maui Constituent Mr. Abcede, I am writing you today to thank you for correcting a problem and, more importantly, I wanted to thank an Individual, Robin Shishido, for doing an excellent job of communication and follow through on what was quickly becoming a dangerous intersection here on Maui.

Back in June 2020, I wrote an email to the County of Maui, only to be referred to the State of Hawaii Office. The intersection was at Makawao Avenue and Haleakala Highway.

I received a response from Robin Shishido. The problem was that there was a signal light change at this intersection, and I had witnessed an accident and several near misses, including almost getting hit myself... many times.

Robin, to my surprise, kept in touch with me this entire time letting me know that this issue was going to be analyzed and a solution would be found. I am retired from a well known City in California and thought this would go nowhere.Robin shows a dedication to the job and just excellent customer service, not to mention showing concern for this dangerous intersection.

I believe Robin has prevented many future accidents and injuries or worse. I believe Robin’s dedication to this project and problem was second to none.

I want to thank you, but really thank Robin Shishido for not only going above and beyond, but just caring about this situation. So please…Thank Robin for me and from all of us who live UpCountry here on Maui. Robin is the shining example of what a State worker should be like.

I hope You reach out to Robin and acknowledge the great work which I am truly grateful for.

The State of Hawaii has an excellent person that was able to get this situation corrected.

Mahalo, Ed Silva Makawao

PAGE 15

Highways Alternative Fuel Corridor Status will boost Kauai’s EV Expansion Efforts By: Alan Yonan Hawai‘i’ got some good Earth Day news Thursday when officials received word that the Federal Highway Administration approved the Kaua‘i Alternative Fuel Corridor, a move that will bring a host of benefits to the Garden Island including streamlined access to potential funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

crucial in encouraging EV adoption and decarbonization of transportation,” said Ed Sniffen Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation Deputy Director for Highways. “The approval of the Kauaʻi Alternative Fuel Corridor positions our State’s clean energy partners to improve the infrastructure support of sustainable energy.”

Kaua‘i’s designation means all six major islands in Hawai‘i now have alternative fuel corridors, solidifying the state’s commitment to transforming the national transportation outlook and setting a precedent on EV integration. The nomination of the Kaua‘i corridor was coordinated by the Hawai‘i State Energy Office in cooperation with the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation, the County of Kaua‘i, the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative, the Ulupono Initiative, and the Sustainable Transportation Coalition of Hawai‘i.

“Ground transportation accounts for nearly one-quarter of Hawai‘i’s energy emissions so efforts to expand the use of EVs are central to achieving the state’s commitment to a zeroemissions clean economy by 2045,” said Scott Glenn, Hawai‘i’s Chief Energy Officer “We were grateful to have such committed and supportive partners for this project that will help reduce petroleum consumption and emissions in the transportation sector,” Glenn added.

Kaua‘i Mayor Derek Kawakami welcomed the federal approval.

“Electric vehicles coupled with increased opportunities for walking, biking and transit are at the heart of our county transportation policies.” Kawakami said. “We greatly appreciate the strong partnerships we have to realize these objectives.

This federal EV corridor designation is key to moving ahead on needed EV infrastructure for our Island.”

In addition to paving the way for potential EV infrastructure funding, the alternative fuel corridor designation will: • Help coordinate actions needed to effectively identify and deploy EV infrastructure across Kauai County.

• Highlight the importance of clean transportation roadways and charging locations.

• Facilitate increased coordination between state and local government agencies, Hawaii’s businesses, and social communities; and • Incentivize vehicle dealers to increase See ALTERNATIVE FUEL CORRIDOR on next page

“Availability of EV charging infrastructure is PAGE 16

Highways ALTERNATIVE FUEL CORRIDOR from page 16

EV availability and encourage rental car agencies to add electric vehicles to their fleet.

clean transportation. In 2017, the four counties of Hawaii committed to a shared goal of reaching 100 percent renewable ground transportation by 2045.

In their proclamations, the County of Kauai, the City and County of Honolulu, and the County of Maui pledged to lead the way by transitioning all of their fleet vehicles to 100 percent renewable power by 2035.

The highway segments that make up the alternative fuel corridor are called the “Perimeter Route” running 71.3 miles from Hā‘ena along Highway 560, Highway 56 and Highway 50 through to West Kaua‘i.

The Hawai‘i State Energy Office is committed to continued collaboration with stakeholders including local, state, federal, and international entities to advance the development of DC fast charging infrastructure on Kaua‘i to support the state’s clean energy and climate goals. To achieve those ends, HSEO has committed to allocate up to $50,000 to the deployment of a DC fast charger on Kaua‘i through its role as administrator for the State of Hawaii Volkswagen Settlement funds.

Support from the County of Kaua‘i’ and the Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative were critical in obtaining the alternative fuel corridor designation. Also key were the backing of the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation and financial support of the Ulupono Initiative. Consistent with its mission, Ulupono allocated $25,000, or 20 percent of the cost of deployment, for a DC fast charger on Kaua‘i.

Hawai‘i has a solid track record of promoting

In 2018, Hawaii created the Zero Emissions Clean Economy Target, which states: “Considering both atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gas emissions as well as offsets from the local sequestration of atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases through long-term sinks and reservoirs, a statewide target is hereby established to sequester more atmospheric carbon and greenhouse gases than emitted within the State as quickly as practicable, but no later than 2045.”

In 2020, Hawai‘i joined with 14 other states and the District of Columbia as signatory states to the Multi-State Medium- and HeavyDuty Zero Emission Vehicle Memorandum of Understanding which, among other things, is an agreement to strive to make sales of all new medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in their jurisdictions zero-emission vehicles by no later than 2050.

PAGE 17

Highways Highways welcomes Engineer IV Bruce McClure a freeway extension that should finally start construcs tion ti in a couple of years.

Then I moved to a conT struction office for a short s while.

After that I worked w for fo DPP as a commercial building plans examiner. I b then th joined DOT-AIR in Engineering Maintenance E where I managed projects w at a most of the states fifteen airports.

Now that I have a joined Highways Planning, jo I feel that I have come back to my roots. I am excited about putting my various a experiences to work in the e Planning Section.

P

Q: Could you tell us about yourself?

First, I wanted to let everybody know that I am not the Bruce McClure from the Big Island. I have to laugh about it because I have received so many phone calls and emails over more than 10 years from so many people welcoming me to Oahu and who are glad to see their old friend on board. Once I went through Hilo airport and had two TSA agents and a vendor ask me in a five-minute span if I was the son of their Bruce McClure or at least related. As far as I know, the other Bruce McClure has been comfortably retired for at least 5-10 years now.

As for me, I was a military child born at Tripler. I left at three years old. I always wanted to come back and bring my wife with me. It started with some vacations to Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island. Then we moved to Hawaii for thirteen years. We totally loved it. In 2019 we had to move back to California for family reasons.

After a couple years, I was able to come back to the islands I love.

Q: What aspect of your new job at DOTHWY’s are you most excited about?

I started my career doing design work for Washington State DOT back in 2001 helping to design

Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your career?

While I have had many great engineering mentors throughout my career, the person who has influenced me the most will always be my wife, Jasmine. She has encouraged me to continue to do my best at all my jobs, she has listened to me when I needed her, and she supported me in everything I do.

Q: What are 3 things that you love to do?

I love to go to the beach, to swim and to snorkel. When I left Hawaii for a couple years, I came to realize that I really missed it and it was one of the main reasons I came back.

PAGE 18

Highways Nicholas Groves Joins HWY-DB years yea to serve the public, through my new position. thro From Fro supporting a wide range ran of in-house structural tur designs to managing the State’s bridge asset ass management program, gra I will be tapping into int both my technical and an management background. gr

Welcome to the Hawaii Department of Transportation, Nicholas Groves, Highways Division’s Structural Engineer V, Design Unit B Supervisor for Highways Bridge Design (HWY-DB)!

Nicholas obtained his structural engineering degree from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) in 2012 and has been a licensed d structural engineer since 2017.

7.

His background includes steell construction, structural design, n, bridge inspection, and most recently, program management. Prior to joining Highways, Nicholas was at Airports in the Engineering Programs Management Office where he managed the Airline Concurrence Program and developed the project definition reports’ standard for Capital Improvement Program projects.

Q: What are you looking forward to in your new position at the DOT? I’m looking forward to applying nearly all of the skills and knowledge I have developed over the

Q: Q What aspects of your yo job are you excited about? ci There’s actually a lot T that th I am excited about but I am most excited about abo working with my Unit B team. I’m looking forward to getting to know each of them.

3. What do you do on your weekends for fun?

I enjoy reading, being outside, and spending time with family, which is easier now that I recently moved to Ho’opili.

PAGE 19

Highways Kawamoto Becomes Full-Time Highways Employee O Owen Kawamoto K has recently h become a b ffull-time employee with p tthe Highways Division w although he a has been h working at w tthe HDOT ssince 2013 as an 89-day a hire. He has h a lot of experrience helping out at different different offices offices and we ar are fortunate that he is a part our HDOT ‘Ohana.

Here is Owen’s story: I have been working for HDOT since 2013 as an 89-day hire. During this time period, I worked in the Contracts Office (2013 -2016) and in the Highways Technical Design Services branch (2017 – 2021).

I retired from Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility at the end of 2012 after 30 years. I also retired from the U.S. Naval Reserve after 29 years as a Captain in 2005.

My family has a history with HDOT as my father retired from the Harbors Division

and my sister recently retired from the Highways Division. In addition, I have several other relatives working in the Highways Division, including my daughter.

I also, spent two summers during college working at the Harbors Division as a summer hire.

Q: What aspect of your new job at DOTHWY’s are you most excited about?

I am excited about being able to support the other Highway’s Branches to ensure any innovative change is identified and incorporated into the Specifications that will be utilized for their projects.

Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your career?

In my Navy career, a friend whom I met on my first ship, was extremely knowledgeable, and his leadership ability was a blueprint for me to follow. At the Shipyard, there were two supervisors who were calm and decisive leaders and were always supportive of their subordinates, extremely knowledgeable in their areas, and flexible in taking on new challenges.

Q: What are 3 things that you love to do?

1. Watching and playing with my granddaughter, who will be one-year old in May. 2. Traveling overseas and to the mainland.

3. Working in the yard and growing fruits and vegetables.

PAGE 20

Highways E Komo Mai, Leimomi Cachola, Office Assistant III

Q: Could you tell us about yourself?

Well, I’ll start off by saying that I was born and raised on the island on Maui and I couldn’t be more honored to be a part of the State’s Department of Transportation.

Before the pandemic, I worked in the hospitality industry for 7 years in the housekeeping and maintenance department. There, I learned lots of patience, how to deal with complaints, and why Maui truly is No Ka ‘Oi ! During the pandemic, I was able to be a stay at home mom for a little and make up for lost time with my family, I also added “home school teacher to my resume.” I’m blessed to be a part of the HDOT ‘Ohana and I’m excited to see where the future takes me on this journey.

Q: What aspect of your new job at HDOTHWY’s are you most excited about?

I’m most excited about learning the new innova-

tive development of our state highways and working with knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your career?

The person who has influenced me the most ost is my mother. She hass taught me hard work, honesty, dedication, and what it truly means to go above and beyond to do our part in serving our community.

Q: What are 3 things that you love to do?

I love spending time with my children, working out, and relaxing at the beach.

Meet Purchasingg Technician Vanessa Tablit Q What aspect Q: of your new job at DOT-HWY’s are you most excited yo about? ab So far, I’m most excited about the exc people I work with. peo Everyone has great Eve things to say about thin The State and I’m excited to be a part excit this team. of th

Q: Who is the person that has influenced you the most in your career?

My greatest influence have been my sons, they have given me the drive and determination to always do my best and strive for success.

Q: What are 3 things that you love to do?

I love spending time with my family (mostly my mo’opuna), watching sunrises and sunsets, and crafting.

PAGE 21

Highways Buckle Up Hawaii!

By: Lee Nagano

Click It or Ticket is from May 17th through June 6th this year. Although Hawaii’s seat belt and child passenger seat laws are being enforced year-round, you will likely see more of your county law enforcement on the roadways as a part of Click It or Ticket.

can reduce your risk of: - Fatal injury by 60% - Moderate to critical injury by 65%

No matter what type of vehicle you drive, one of the safest choices drivers and passengers can make is to buckle up. Wearing a seat belt increases your chance of surviving a fatal motor vehicle crash by 45 percent.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the consequences of not wearing, or improperly wearing, a seat belt are clear: • Buckling up helps keep you safe and secure inside your vehicle, whereas not buckling up can result in being totally ejected from the vehicle in a crash, which is almost always deadly.

Hawaii has one of the highest seat belt usage rates in the nation, at more that 90 percent for the last decade.

But there is still more work to be done to save lives. Of the 42 passenger vehicle fatalities in 2020, 13 were unrestrained. That’s thirteen more lives that could have been saved by seat belt use.

The fine for unrestrained occupants on Oahu, Hawaii and Maui is $102, and the fine on Kauai is $112. Drivers will receive one citation for every unrestrained occupant in the vehicle. Violators convicted of the child passenger restraint law are required to attend a four-hour class and be assessed a fine between $100 and $500, depending on the number of convictions.

• Air bags are not enough to protect you; in fact, the force of an air bag can seriously injure or even kill you if you’re not buckled up.

Hawaii’s Child Passenger Restraint law requires children under 4 years of age to ride in a child safety seat. The law also requires children 4 through 7 years old to ride in a child restraint or booster seat.

• Improperly wearing a seat belt, such as putting the strap below your arm, puts you and your children at risk in a crash.

Save lives and money. Always wear your seat belt and ensure that everyone in your vehicle is buckled in.

• The benefits of buckling up are equally clear: o If you buckle up in the front seat of a passenger car, you can reduce your risk of: - Fatal injury by 45% - Moderate to critical injury by 50% o If you buckle up in a light truck, you

Information on how seat belt safety and statistics can be found at: https://www.nhtsa.gov/ risky-driving/seat-belts Information on how to safely restrain children in a motor vehicle can be found at: http://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/safe-communites/child-pasPAGE 22

ARRIVALS and

DEPARTURES Each month, we feature this section in our newsletter called “Arrivals and Departures,” spotlighting new employees (Arrivals) and departing/retiring employees (Departures). It is an honor to welcome the new employees, congratulate the retiring employees and wish both groups the best in their future endeavors.

ARRIVALS

E Komo Mai!

NAME TITLE GRANT KENJI NONAKA AIRPORT FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT II JAMES TN FLYNN AIRPORT FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT II ELIJAH BR CALZO AIRPORT FIREFIGHTER RECRUIT II YEONGKOO SONG INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BAND B OWEN N. KAWAMOTO ENGINEER III PATTY ANN K. MACHADO GENERAL LABORER II LEIMOMI LH CACHOLA OFFICE ASSISTANT III ROBIN JAMES COLOBONG GENERAL LABORER II RICHARD J. CUNNINGHAM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST

DEPARTURES NAME HERBERT SANTOS JR. RICHARD S. ITAMOTO JOVENCIO M. PIMENTEL DESTRY CARVALHO JIMMY YANG

DIV/ISLE AIR/HAWAII AIR/OAHU AIR/KAUAI HWY/OAHU HWY/OAHU HWY/KAUAI HWY/MAUI HWY/KAUAI ADM/OAHU

DATE 04/01/21 04/01/21 04/05/21 04/12/21 04/16/21 04/16/21 04/16/21 04/16/21 04/16/21

Mahalo Nui Loa!

TITLE BUILDING MAINTENANCE WORKER II JANITOR II EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I GENERAL LABORER II ENGINEER II

PAGE 23

DIV/ISLE AIR/MAUI AIR/OAHU HWY/HAWAII HWY/KAUAI HWY/OAHU

DATE 04/01/21 04/01/21 04/01/21 04/01/21 04/02/21

Congratulations Graduates!

Congratulations to the Class of 2021!

We would like to congratulate all of our DOT ‘Ohana’s graduates who have had to adapt to so much uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Let us celebrate their success as graduates and wish them all the best in their future endeavors!

CongratulaC tions to Nathan ti Cantrill, son of C CSS’ CS Information Technology tio Manager DarMa ren Cantrill! A summa cum laude sum graduate of Roosgra evelt eve High School, Nathan also reNat ceived ceiv a career and technical education tech certificate. He will be en enrolled in University of Hawai’i Unive - Manoa’s psychology program.

Also graduating from Roosevelt High School is Shayla Cabiles, the granddaughter of Charles “Chuck” Lee of the Airports Division. Following graduation, Shayla plans to attend Ka-piolani Communityy College and major in nursing.

Congratulations to Emily Pascua, daughter of Highways Division’s Fred & Leigh Pascua!

Within a span of 3 years, Emily graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, and a minor in business. A former student intern at HDOT, Emily plans on working as a physical therapy aide at St. Joseph’s Hospital (ICU and Barrow Neurological Institute) in Phoenix, AZ. She also plans to attend a physical therapy program to get her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT).

W to go, Way Aa Aaron Young, son of Barbara Young of Harbors Divisio who will be sion, gr graduating from Lu Lunalilo Elementa School. He tary pl plans on startin 6th grade ing at Washington M Middle School.

PAGE 24

Congratulations Graduates!

W are excitWe ed for Lady e Iman JefferIm son who will so be graduating b from the Arts fr and Coma munication m Academy at A Waipahu High W School on S May 20, 2021.

M She is the S daughter of d Candi Nicole C Jefferson Je off the h Administration d i i i Division i i i iin the h Statewide Transportation Planning Office. After graduation, Lady will be attending International Air & Hospitality Academy and embarking upon a bright future as a flight attendant.

Congratulations to Kailey Puanani Doll, daughter of Hilo International Airport’s Joylyne P. Doll, who is scheduled to graduate from Waiakea High School on May 22. She is enrolled for college at University of Hawai‘i - Hilo and is working toward a business management/law degree.

We our proud of Airport Division’s very own Ariel M. Harwood, Account Clerk III will be graduating from Kapiolani Community College with an associate’s degree in accounting.

All the best to you, Ariel!

Congratulations C to Lori Ann Aiu, A daughter of o Ana Marie Aiu A of Harbors Division, on her D recent graduat re from Keaau High fr School.

She S plans to attend p the th Hawaii Community College m at a Hilo.

CongratulaC tions to Airt ports Division p Auditor RobA ert e Mikuni on his h son, Troy Mikuni gradM uating from u Kalani High K School. He plans to attend Kapiolani Community College.

PAGE 25

Congratulations Graduates!

Congratulations to Kainoa Gerard, son of Erica & Rodney Gerard of Highways Division, Oahu District, Environmental Management Section, on his graduation from Kamehameha High School - Kapalama.

Following graduation, Kainoa will pursue a bachelor’s degree in education with an emphasis in mathematics, and is committed to playing NAIA collegiate men’s volleyball at Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa.

Congratulations to Airports Division’s Barry Navares on his son Kaulana Navares graduating from Mililani High School. Kaulana will be attending Dixie State College with a partial academic scholarship in nursing and double major in fire science.

C Congratulati tions to Derek R Rapozo, son o of Justine Rapozo of R Airports A Division D (Kauai Pass & (K ID Office) who is graduating from Kapa‘a fr High School.

H He intends to H attend college a to become a Journeyman Jo Electrician.

E Also graduating Als from Kapa‘a fro High School is Hig Alena Ale Takenaka-Akau, the ka daughter of Airda ports po Division (Kauai District) (Ka Office Assistant Tami Ta Takenaka. ka Graduating with honors w with a goal to w becoming a b nurse, Alena n will wi be attending Kauai Community College for two years, then furthering her education at Utah University. Her parents are beyond proud of her for adapting well during the pandemic, maintaining a high GPA, being a huge help with their youngest daughter, all while holding a part time job. We consider ourselves blessed beyond measure and we have no doubt that she will change the world just as she changed our lives!

PAGE 26

Congratulations Graduates!

C Congratulattions to Marrina Sokar, d daughter of Hany Sokar H of Highways Division, on Di her graduation he from Niu Valley fro Middle School!

Mid She is looking forward to attending Kaiatte ser H High School and eventually studying to be a study lawyer. lawye Kudos to Kiana Gordian, daughter of Kimberly Gordian (Highways Division), who is graduating from Moanalua High School. After graduation, she will pursue the Pharm.D through the Pre-Pharmacy Freshmen Early Assurance Program at Chapman University.

Outstanding!

We are excited for Olivia Emi Mendoza, daughter of Ernest Mendoza (HWY-T), on her graduating from Seagull Schools in Kapolei. She will continue her education at Ewa Elementary School.

CongratulaC tions to Aaron ti Yamasaki, son Ya of Highways’ Christine Ch Yamasaki, on Ya obtaining a ob bachelor’s deba gree in biology gre and a minor in chemistry from che the University of Portland!

Por Aaron plans to Aaro take the MCAT, apply to medical appl sschools, while continuing to work as a medical sscribe at hospital emergency departments.

HDOT has a future doctor in its ‘ohana!

PAGE 27

Process to Request a Replacement Vaccination Card Only for individuals vaccinated in Hawaii Where did you get vaccinated?

How do I request a replacement card

Hospital, Pharmacy, DOD, VA or medical insurance directed location

Contact the location/provider that administered the vaccine

Leeward Community College Point of Dispensing (POD)

Call 808‐586‐8332

Hawaii Department of Health (HI‐DOH) POD Contact HI‐DOH’s District Health Office in the respective county. on: Kauai, Maui or Big Island Kauai: 808‐241‐3495; Maui: 808‐984‐8200; Big Island: 808‐974‐6006 At a mobile POD (e.g., those that have since Contact the provider that operated the POD (e.g., Queens, Hawaii Pacific closed and are no longer located at the Health, etc) point they were vaccinated) AND you know who was running the mobile POD If you don’t know who was operating the POD where you received your vaccination

Call 808‐586‐8332 or 833‐711‐0645. Provide your: Name, Date of Birth, Vaccination location, Date and approximate time vaccinated, your return phone number or email address

The Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) printout will be accepted if you registered for your vaccination using VAMS log into the system and print out the VAMS Certificate.

Interested in trainings to further your knowledge and skills of Microsoft Office applications?

Date / Time / Class Wednesday, 4/28 at 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM – Outlook 200 Wednesday, 5/5 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – Microsoft Tasks 100 Wednesday, 5/12 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – OneDrive 100 Wednesday, 5/19 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – OneNote 100 Wednesday, 5/26 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – Microsoft Forms 100 Wednesday, 6/2 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – PowerPoint 100 Wednesday, 6/9 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – Teams 100 Wednesday, 6/16 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – Teams 200 Wednesday, 6/23 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – Teams Meeting 100 & 200 Wednesday, 6/30 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – SharePoint 100 Wednesday, 7/7 at 12:00PM – 1:00PM – SharePoint 200

Click on this link to register