Transitioning to a new normal with a haircut
by Michael Choe | June 18, 2020
As the days go by, COVID-19-related quarantine restrictions are slowly being lifted. We’re beginning to see more people venture out — to parks, malls and more. It’s great to transition back to life as we knew it, but it’s not even close to being normal. There are 6-foot markers and face covering signs everywhere, and I can’t help but wonder if the new norm will continue to be one full of limitations.
A lot of public places that were forced to close are now open with some modifications or are in the process of reopening. For example, some stores at Ala Moana Shopping Center are limiting the number of customers allowed inside to maintain social distancing. I was surprised to be greeted at Foot Locker’s entrance by an employee holding a clipboard and a tally counter. For safety and sanitation, clothing stores have closed fitting rooms.
Barbershops
Personal service providers like salons and barbershops are opening with numerous safety measures. I was excited to hear this news because I was in dire need of a haircut. When I went to get one, I was amazed at the procedures implemented to ensure safety for both customers and employees. Some of these included:
- No walk-ins allowed, appointments only
- No waiting rooms; customers must remain outside and wait to be called
- Customers asked to use hand sanitizer as they enter
- Temperature read upon entry
- Customers asked to complete a questionnaire as they enter
- Pens for questionnaire sanitized immediately after use
- Masks must remain on, even during the haircut
With these safety and sanitation measures in place, I was able to relax and finally get my tangled mess of hair trimmed.
Outdoor venue
Parks and beaches opened on May 15. It was a relief to many, including myself. Even small gatherings are allowed with a few restrictions so long as the group doesn’t exceed 10 people. Large gatherings, activities, events and classes are still prohibited in parks. Outdoor courts and fields are accessible, though only for one-on-one sports such as tennis. I’ve also noticed that police officers are much more visible than usual, enforcing the rules for social distancing. The sandy areas of beaches are accessible starting 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. For more information on what’s allowed and what isn’t at parks, beaches, and courts, visit www.honolulu.gov/parks.
Enjoy the ride
Public and private transportation services have also adapted to prevent the spread of COVID-19. TheBus system on Oahu reminds all passengers to wear a mask. I found out that Biki has been consistently wiping down their bikes at each station. As an occasional Biki rider, I appreciate this. I was lucky enough to catch an employee in Waikiki and thanked him as he sanitized a Biki station. The rideshare company, Lyft, displays a notification on its mobile app that links to a resource for local guidelines and reminds all drivers and passengers to wear a mask.
I’m comforted that facilities and services are reopening with safety as the top priority. Some businesses are allowing workers to return to the office, so maybe downtown Honolulu will soon be lively again. With restaurants now open for dining in, I hope I can enjoy a nice meal with friends and catch up with them soon. I’m looking forward to safely interacting with everyone again in our new normal. For now, I’m just happy that I finally got my haircut!
Michael Choe is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric Company.
