Ho`olaha, November-December 2022

December 25, 2022

The Public Employee, Winter 2022

December 25, 2022

2023 EO Institute Administrator’s Conference Dates & Survey

Dear Fellow Educational Officers,

Can you believe it’s already December? Mahalo for all that you do as we continue to meet with the DOE to discuss pay, EO recruitment and retention strategies, and improved support and working conditions.

The next EO Institute Administrator’s Conference will be held in February 2023:

PLEASE SAVE THE DATE!

Monday, February 13 for Neighbor Islands

Friday, February 17 for Oahu

Shortly after receiving this eBlast, you will also receive a direct email from SurveyMonkey asking you to complete a survey on the EO Institute Administrator’s Conference. Your input will help us plan a meaningful conference program.

Happy Holidays!

Derek Minakami, Kelcy Koga, Brett Tanaka, Bert Carter, James Sunday, Jon Henry Lee, Lorelei Aiwohi, Jill LaBoy, Keoni Wilhelm, Corey Nakamura, and Kathy Silva

Unit 6 Board of Directors

FOLLOW US

Please do not reply to this email as we are not able to respond to messages sent to this address.

For a complete list of member discounts or for more HGEA news, visit www.hgea.org.

If you have specific inquiries, contact your local HGEA office or the HGEA Member Service Center at

(808) 543-0000 or [email protected].

HGEA eBlast
Hawaii Government Employees Association
888 Mililani Street, Suite 401
Honolulu, HI 96813

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December 7, 2022

Fighting for You: HGEA Wins Job Reinstatement and Unjust Suspension Cases

HGEA recently made headlines after successfully winning a multi-year fight with the County of Maui over temporary hazard pay (THP) for 1,300 members who worked through the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re continuing to pursue THP grievances in every jurisdiction. Your job is your livelihood and we’re committed to fighting for you.

We’re pleased to report additional wins on these recent arbitration cases:

Triston Bukoski, Unit 15: Reinstated after Termination

Triston Bukoski was working as an Ocean Safety Officer at the County of Kauai for 4 years before his sudden termination. Bukoski saw lifeguarding as his dream career, where he rescued locals and tourists at Poipu and Salt Pond Beaches for a living. Sensing something was wrong in the process of his termination, he turned to HGEA.

After reviewing his case, HGEA argued that the employer did not follow proper policies and procedures. In fact, the employer based Bukoski’s termination on a policy that did not exist. The Arbitrator agreed with HGEA and awarded Bukoski one year of back pay and benefits and the reinstatement of his job.

With his job back, Bukoski praised HGEA and its experienced, professional staff who guided him through the grievance and arbitration process while he juggled 3 jobs to make up for his loss in income. He also recommends that members turn to their union for help: “If you think anything is fishy or wrong, don’t stay quiet. Get to know your union agent because they’re there to help,” said Bukoski.

Ricky Renaud, Unit 4: Arbitrator Finds Suspension Unjustified

As an experienced public worker with over 28 years of service, Ricky Renaud, Solid Waste Superintendent for the County of Kauai, oversees field operations and contracts. His accomplishments include an automated refuse collection project and streamlining processes to increase efficiency, worker safety, and fiscal responsibility.

He contacted HGEA after receiving a 30-day suspension resulting from an illegitimate complaint and an investigation that tacked on a retaliation charge with confusing logic in a case the Arbitrator would later characterize as containing “an extraordinary number of process anomalies and flaws” on the part of the employer.

The Arbitrator found that the suspension did not meet the definition for discipline with just cause because the nature of the complaint remained unknown and there was a clear logical error to claim retaliation (a retaliatory action cannot occur before the action provoking a disagreement). Additionally, a workplace issue discussed during arbitration could not be brought against Renaud as he did not have the authority to break contracts as desired by his accuser.

Renaud was awarded 30 days of back pay and benefits for the time he was unjustly suspended. He expressed his gratitude to HGEA stating, “I believed in the union and the process. And the process worked.”

_OAHU_

Support the Scholarship Fund at the Annual Holiday Craft and Gift Fair!

Dec. 7 & 8 from 10 AM to 2 PM

HGEA Building, 888 Mililani Street, Honolulu, HI 96813

Join us for a few days of holiday cheer! Shop gifts, home decor, jewelry, lots of food, and more while supporting the C. R. Kendall Scholarship Fund. View flyer for more info!

VIEW FLYER

_KAUAI_

VIEW FLYER

March with Us at the Lights on Rice Parade!

Friday, Dec. 2 at 4:30 PM

Kauai members are invited to join the HGEA Kauai Community Action Committee in the Lights on Rice Parade! Dress up as a Marvel or DC superhero or wear your HGEA T-Shirt. You must register by calling 808-245-6751 or emailing jtaba@hgea.org by November 30. View flyer for more info!

_KAUAI_

VIEW FLYER

Holiday Bake Sale to Support Scholarship Fund

Saturday, Dec. 3 from 8 AM to 12 PM

Kauai Hall, HGEA Kauai Office

Enjoy live music and yummy holiday treats while supporting the C. R. Kendall Scholarship Fund at the bake sale!

We’re also asking bakers to help donate baked goods. Packaged baked goods can be dropped off at the HGEA Kauai office by 3 PM on December 2. View flyer for more info!

_MAUI_

VIEW FLYER

Holiday Food Drive

The Maui Community Action Committee is hosting a food drive to benefit the Maui Food Bank from now until December 9.

Toys for Tots Drive

From now until Saturday, Dec. 10

The Oahu Community Action Committee is collecting new toys and stuffed animals for keiki! There are two ways for you to participate and bring a smile to keiki this Christmas:

Coordinate a collection at your office and call Wes Aki at 808-543-0088 to arrange a pick-up.
Drop off your donations at the HGEA Oahu Office drive-thru collection on Saturday, December 10 from 10 AM to 1 PM. View flyer for more info on the drive-thru!

FOLLOW US

Please do not reply to this email as we are not able to respond to messages sent to this address.

For a complete list of member discounts or for more HGEA news, visit www.hgea.org.

If you have specific inquiries, contact your local HGEA office or the HGEA Member Service Center at

(808) 543-0000 or service@hgea.org.

HGEA eBlast
Hawaii Government Employees Association
888 Mililani Street, Suite 401
Honolulu, HI 96813

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November 17, 2022

Mahalo for the Successful Election Season ?

In observation of Veterans Day, all HGEA offices will be closed on Friday, November 11

Mahalo to our members who voted and participated in our election activities this year! The majority of our endorsed candidates won, including Brian Schatz for U.S. Senate, Jill Tokuda and Ed Case for Congress, Josh Green and Sylvia Luke for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, and Rick Bissen for Maui Mayor. This is an important leadership transition for our state and we’re looking forward to working with your elected officials in the 2023 legislative session.

What’s next? Our political action committees are reviewing the legislative proposals that members submitted and crafting the legislative program. Stay tuned for updates on how we’ll fight for you at the Legislature!

_ MAUI_

VIEW FLYER

Hanafuda Tournament

Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 5 PM to 7 PM

David Trask Building, Conference Rm. #207

Join your fellow HGEA members for a fun night of Hanafuda and food! Only 5 seats are left, so register now to secure your spot. Dinner will be provided to all participants. Register online or call 808-244-5508. View flyer for more info!

_KAUAI_

March with Us at the Lights on Rice Parade!

Friday, Dec. 2 at 4:30 PM

Kauai members are invited to join the HGEA Kauai Community Action Committee in the Lights on Rice Parade! Dress up as a Marvel or DC superhero or wear your HGEA T-Shirt. You must register by calling 808-245-6751 or emailing jtaba@hgea.org by November 30. View flyer for more info!

VIEW FLYER

_OAHU_

Toys for Tots Drive

From now until Saturday, Dec. 10

The Oahu Community Action Committee is collecting new toys and stuffed animals for keiki! There are two ways for you to participate and bring a smile to keiki this Christmas:

Coordinate a collection at your office and call Wes Aki at 808-543-0088 to arrange a pick-up.
Drop off your donations at the HGEA Oahu Office drive-thru collection on Saturday, December 10 from 10 AM to 1 PM.

_VIRTUAL_

How Can HGEA Help Me Become a Homeowner?

Thursday, Nov. 17 at 12 PM

HGEA is partnering with CrossCountry Mortgage to help members achieve homeownership! Experienced trainers Shinichi Matsumoto and Roland Shar will provide you with crucial knowledge on the homebuying process and benefits that you can utilize.

REGISTER

_HAWAII ISLAND_

VIEW FLYER

Retirement Planning Seminar

Saturday, Nov. 19 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM

Hawaii Island Division Office

It’s never too early to plan for your future! HGEA Retirees Unit welcomes members to an upcoming retirement seminar with presentations by Employees’ Retirement System and Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund. Register online or view flyer for more info.

_KAUAI_

VIEW FLYER

Holiday Bake Sale to Support Scholarship Fund

Saturday, Dec. 3 from 8 AM to 12 PM

Kauai Hall, HGEA Kauai Office

Enjoy live music and yummy holiday treats while supporting the C.R. Kendall Scholarship at the bake sale!

We’re also asking bakers to help donate baked goods. Packaged baked goods can be dropped off at the HGEA Kauai office by 3 PM on December 2. View flyer for more info!

_MAUI_

VIEW FLYER

Holiday Food Drive

The Maui Community Action Committee is hosting a food drive to benefit the Maui Food Bank from now until December 9.

Apply for Student Loan Debt Relief!

The Federal Student Loan Debt Relief program is accepting applications. Don’t miss the opportunity to relieve you and your family from the burden of student debt! Eligible borrowers could receive full or partial relief of up to $20,000 for Federal Pell Grant recipients and $10,000 for non-Pell grant recipients. For more information and to apply, visit studentaid.gov.

Note: Even though debt discharging is currently paused due to a court order, it’s recommended that you submit an application so it can be processed when it becomes possible.

Get a One-Month Guest Membership!

HGEA members and their families are eligible for a one-month guest membership at the Island Club and Spa in Kakaako.

The Guest Membership Includes:

Option to add a friend on guest membership of single guests.
Towels and toiletries.
Complimentary locker service.
Complimentary parking.
Group exercise classes at no cost such as Yoga, Cycle, Pilates, Zumba and more!
Access to the Steam Room, Sauna, and Whirlpool in ladies and men’s locker rooms.
Special Corporate Wellness rate if you decide to join after 30 days.

To activate your complimentary membership, contact Geri Lara-Berger for an appointment by calling 808-543-3900 or emailing glaraberger@islandclubandspa.com.

VISIT WEBSITE

FOLLOW US

Please do not reply to this email as we are not able to respond to messages sent to this address.

For a complete list of member discounts or for more HGEA news, visit www.hgea.org.

If you have specific inquiries, contact your local HGEA office or the HGEA Member Service Center at

(808) 543-0000 or service@hgea.org.

HGEA eBlast
Hawaii Government Employees Association
888 Mililani Street, Suite 401
Honolulu, HI 96813

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November 10, 2022

Unit 15 Arbitration Award Tentative Payment Schedule

Unit 15 Arbitration Award Tentative Payment Schedule

Dear Subscriber,

We are pleased to announce that all county councils have passed funding for the Unit 15 arbitration award payments for the contract period of July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2025. Salary schedules and tentative payment schedules per county are listed below.

If you have any questions regarding the payment schedule, please contact your human resources office.

Salary Schedules

Payment Schedules by County

City and County of Honolulu

Estimated payment date: November 30, 2022

Bring salary to current schedule
1% lump sum payment based on June 30, 2021 annual base pay
Step movements from July 1, 2021 to November 15, 2022

Estimated payment date: February 28, 2023

Retro payments for step movements and across-the-board adjustments from July 1, 2021 to November 15, 2022

County of Hawaii

Estimated payment date: TBA, first quarter of 2023

Note: HGEA continues to follow up with the county to get specific dates and will update affected members as soon as possible.

County of Maui

Estimated payment date: November 15, 2022

Bring salary to current schedule
1% lump sum payment based on June 30, 2021 annual base pay
Step movements from July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2022

Estimated payment date: November 30, 2022

3% salary increase and step movements effective July 1, 2022

Estimated payment date: December 15, 2022

Step movements from July 2, 2022 – October 31, 2022

County of Kauai

Estimated payment date: October 31, 2022

Bring salary to current schedule
1% lump sum payment based on June 30, 2021 annual base pay
Step movements from July 1, 2021 to November 15, 2022

Estimated payment date: December 15, 2022

Retro payments for step movements and across-the-board adjustments from July 1, 2021 to October 30, 2022.

For more information about the Unit 15 arbitration, visit our website.

FOLLOW US

Please do not reply to this email as we are not able to respond to messages sent to this address.

For a complete list of member discounts or for more HGEA news, visit www.hgea.org.

If you have specific inquiries, contact your local HGEA office or the HGEA Member Service Center at

(808) 543-0000 or service@hgea.org.

October 29, 2022

RELEASE: Maui THP Arbitration Award

HGEA Wins Temporary Hazard Pay Arbitration Award

Hawaii Government Employees Association, the state’s largest union, announces its win in a long-standing dispute with the County of Maui over temporary hazard pay during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With this arbitration decision, over 1,300 HGEA bargaining unit members employed by the County of Maui are entitled to temporary hazard pay compensation of up to 25% of their base salary for the duration of Governor Ige’s emergency proclamation from March 4, 2020 to March 25, 2022.

“This award validates our belief that what our government workforce did during the COVID-19 global pandemic was truly extraordinary. Our members sacrificed their health, and quite frankly, their families’ safety, to show up at work each and every day. They are not just essential workers, they are our social safety net and they kept Hawaii afloat during this unprecedented crisis,” said HGEA Executive Director Randy Perreira.

HGEA is still in the grievance process with other jurisdictions over temporary hazard pay but believes that Maui’s decision is a positive sign. “This is a precedent setting award,” said Perreira. “We look forward to resolving similar grievances with other jurisdictions so that our members can move forward and focus on serving our community.”

-pau-

Media Contact:

Michele Kurihara-Klein
Legislative/Communications Officer, HGEA
Direct: 808-543-0093
mkurihara@hgea.org

Kristina Lum
Communications Specialist, HGEA
Direct: 808-543-0063
klum@hgea.org

October 28, 2022

WATCH NOW: Randy Perreira on State of COVID Hazard Pay

“We have to remember, while we look at COVID today as the bad flu … the picture was very different in early 2020. We need to use that lens when you are judging the question of providing a hazard differential to people,” said Randy Perreira, Executive Director of HGEA, in an interview with KHON2 News.

HGEA is fighting for temporary hazard pay (THP) for the full duration of the Governor’s emergency proclamation of two years. After initial requests for THP were denied, HGEA filed grievances with each separate jurisdiction, stating that THP was specifically identified in the American Rescue Plan Act funds Hawaii received from Congress.

Voting Makes a Difference!

As Randy mentioned in his interview, “we have no expectation that the current administration would deal with this. They’re undoubtedly going to punt to the next administration to address it.” Remember, when you vote in the General Election, you are electing leaders who will value and support the critical services public workers provide.

As you cast your vote, please consider voting for HGEA’s endorsed candidates. Your completed ballot must be returned by 7 PM on Tuesday, November 8 for your vote to be counted. Be sure to vote and submit your ballot soon!

Support your fellow union workers by purchasing these scary-good candies for Halloween!

100 Grand (IBT 200)
Abba-Zabba (BCTGM)
Almond Roca (BCTGM)
Baby Ruth (BCTGM, IBT 200)
Big Hunk (BCTGM)
Butterfinger (BCTGM, IBT 200)
Cadbury (UFCW)
Dum Dums (IBT 20)
Ghirardelli Chocolate (BCTGM)
Hershey Original Chocolate Bar (BCTGM, UFCW)

Hershey’s Kisses (BCTGM)
Hot Tamales (BCTGM)
Jelly Belly Jelly Beans (BCTGM)
Jolly Ranchers (BCTGM)
Just Born (BCTGM)
Laffy Taffy (IBT 26)
Look! (BCTGM)
Mike and Ike (BCTGM)
Payday (BCTGM)
Peeps (BCTGM)
PEZ (IBT 443)
Raisinets (IBT 200)

Red Vines (BCTGM)
Ring Pops (IBT 229)
Rolo (BCTGM)
See’s Candies (BCTGM)
Sugar Babies (BCTGM)
Sugar Daddy (BCTGM)
Tootsie Rolls (BCTGM)
Zours (BCTGM)

The Federal Student Loan Debt Relief program is now accepting applications. Don’t miss the opportunity to relieve you and your family from the burden of student debt! Eligible borrowers could receive full or partial relief of up to $20,000 for Federal Pell Grant recipients and $10,000 for non-Pell grant recipients. For more information and to apply, visit studentaid.gov.

Note: Even though debt discharging is currently paused due to a court order, it’s recommended that you submit an application so it can be processed when it becomes possible.

Reminder: Most city, state, and county employees are also eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. The deadline to apply for this program is October 31.

Submit Legislative Proposals for 2023 Session

Deadline: Saturday, Oct. 29

Do you have an idea for a new law or want an existing one amended?

Submit it now! Our political action committees will take members’ ideas into consideration as they craft HGEA’s legislative package for 2023.

SUBMIT

_MAUI_

Enter the HGEA Spooktacular Giveaway and Win Prizes!

Deadline: Friday, Oct. 28 at 12 PM

VIEW FLYER

Two spooky contests for members:

Halloween Costume Contest with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes
Best Office Decor with grand prize

HGEA members must post their pictures on Instagram and tag us @hgea_maui or email Union Agent Charity Sadang at csadang@hgea.org by 12 PM on October 28 to be entered into the contest. Winners will be announced on Instagram Live @hgea_maui on October 31 at 2 PM.

_MAUI_

Art Class Fundraiser for Scholarship

Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 5 PM

David Trask Building, Conference Rm. #207

VIEW FLYER

Join renown artist Malorie Arisumi in a guided paint session while supporting the Charles R. Kendall Scholarship Fund! The class is $40/person. Register online or call 808-244-5508. See flyer for more info!

_MAUI_

Hanafuda Tournament

Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 5 PM to 7 PM

David Trask Building, Conference Rm. #207

Join your fellow HGEA members for a fun night of Hanafuda and food! Only 16 seats are available, so register now to secure your spot. Dinner will be provided to all participants. Register online or call 808-244-5508. View flyer for more info!

VIEW FLYER

_HAWAII ISLAND & OAHU_

Retirement Planning Seminars

It’s never too early to plan for your future! HGEA Retirees Unit welcomes members to these upcoming retirement seminars with presentations by Employees’ Retirement System and Hawaii Employer-Union Health Benefits Trust Fund:

OAHU MEMBERS: Join us at the Oahu Division Office on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Register online or view flyer.
HAWAII ISLAND MEMBERS: Join us at the Hawaii Island Division Office on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Register online or view flyer.

_VIRTUAL_

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia Webinar

Thursday, Nov. 10 from 5 PM to 6 PM

In Hawaii alone, more than 100,000 individuals are affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. But no one has to face this disease alone!

The Alzheimer’s Association – Hawaii welcomes members to attend this informational webinar providing an overview of Alzheimer’s and dementia along with helpful resources.

REGISTER

_OAHU_

VIEW FLYER

Join Us for IN-PERSON BINGO Night!

Thursday, Nov. 10 from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

HGEA 1st Floor Meeting Hall, 888 Mililani St., Honolulu, 96813

Open to the first 60 members who sign up. A light meal, snacks, and door prizes will be provided.

SIGN UP

_KAUAI_

VIEW FLYER

Turkey Shoot Golf Tournament

Veteran’s Day, Friday, Nov. 11 at 8:30 AM

Wailua Golf Course, 3-5350 Kuhio Hwy., Lihue 96766

The event is limited to the first 30 members to sign up. Contact HGEA Kauai Office at 808-241-6751 to register.

_VIRTUAL & OAHU HYBRID_

How Can HGEA Help Me Become a Homeowner?

Thursday, Nov. 17 at 12 PM or 5:30 PM

HGEA is partnering with CrossCountry Mortgage to help members achieve homeownership! Experienced trainers Shinichi Matsumoto and Roland Shar will provide you with crucial knowledge on the homebuying process and benefits that you can utilize. There are two options to attend:

Virtual 12 PM Session: Register online
Hybrid 5:30 PM Session at Oahu Division Office: Register online. Food will be provided for in-person attendees, courtesy of CrossCountry Mortgage.

The Magical Mystery Show

The Magical Mystery Show is the newest member of the Makana Perks & Discounts program!

HGEA members can receive a FREE 30-minute magic class and $20 off all kamaaina adult tickets (ages 18+) for the Magical Mystery Show! Child tickets (ages 6-17) are $39.

You and your family can be entertained by world class magicians at two new showrooms on Oahu and Maui.

To book online, go to hotel-magic.com. Select the “Hawaii Resident” rate and enter promo code MAKANA20 to receive your $20 discount on all adult tickets. You can also reserve over the phone by calling 888-624-4202.

VISIT WEBSITE

FOLLOW US

Please do not reply to this email as we are not able to respond to messages sent to this address.

For a complete list of member discounts or for more HGEA news, visit www.hgea.org.

If you have specific inquiries, contact your local HGEA office or the HGEA Member Service Center at

(808) 543-0000 or service@hgea.org.

HGEA eBlast
Hawaii Government Employees Association
888 Mililani Street, Suite 401
Honolulu, HI 96813

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October 27, 2022

Author: support@14oranges.com

Martin Luther King Day Golf Tournament

Recreation Committee Event: Eyelash Lei-Making Class

Lunar New Year Beaded Bracelet Class

Easy Steps to Improve Your Financial Literacy

Mental Health First Aid Training

Call for Donations: Upcoming Rummage Sales

HGEA x Eden in Love Totes Still Available

(medium size only)

January Special Offer for HGEA Members!

Calling All Bowlers: HGEA Kauai Bowling League

Recreation Committee Event:

Eyelash Lei-Making Class

Lunar New Year Beaded Bracelet Class

Call for Donations: Hawaii Island Rummage Sale

Martin Luther King Day Golf Tournament

Call for Donations: Kauai Rummage Sale

Easy Steps to Improve Your Financial Literacy

Mental Health First Aid Training

Call for Donations: Oahu Rummage Sale

HGEA x Eden in Love Totes Still Available

(medium size only)

Support the Scholarship Fund at the Annual Holiday Craft and Gift Fair!

March with Us at the Lights on Rice Parade!

Holiday Bake Sale to Support Scholarship Fund

Holiday Food Drive

Toys for Tots Drive

Hanafuda Tournament

March with Us at the Lights on Rice Parade!

Toys for Tots Drive

How Can HGEA Help Me Become a Homeowner?

Retirement Planning Seminar

Holiday Bake Sale to Support Scholarship Fund

Holiday Food Drive

Apply for Student Loan Debt Relief!

Get a One-Month Guest Membership!

Unit 15 Arbitration Award Tentative Payment Schedule

Salary Schedules

Payment Schedules by County

HGEA Wins Temporary Hazard Pay Arbitration Award

Enter the HGEA Spooktacular Giveaway and Win Prizes!

Art Class Fundraiser for Scholarship

Hanafuda Tournament

Retirement Planning Seminars

Join Us for IN-PERSON BINGO Night!

How Can HGEA Help Me Become a Homeowner?

The Magical Mystery Show

The Magical Mystery Show is the newest member of the Makana Perks & Discounts program!