Small businesses are flying more goods from farms to doorsteps

May 22, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

Photos courtesy of Hama Hama Oysters & North Shore Living Herbs + Greens

Today, many small businesses are flying products directly to consumers due to restaurants and retail stores being disrupted by COVID-19. Alaska Air Cargo is delivering the goods from shellfish to prepare in your kitchens to fresh herbs to mix with your soups or freshly baked bread.

“We’re grateful for the relationships we have with our shippers from small to large, and freight forwarders who help small businesses deliver their products door to door across the country. Together, we play a role in bringing joy to consumers during this uncertain time,” said Rick Bendix, cargo marketing and business development program manager. “At Alaska, we’re doing everything we can so businesses continue to thrive and people at home stay safe.”

With so many of you staying home and cooking possibly for the first or the billionth time, we get that it can be overwhelming to cook a meal from scratch. So, we reached out to some of the small businesses we partner with that bring fresh food to your tables. Here are a few tips & must-trys:

Be shellfish & stay home

Fun fact – Oysters help boost your immune system to help fight off anything that comes your way.

Hama Hama Oysters sits at the mouth of the Hama Hama river on Hood Canal in Washington state, a Pacfic Northwest region packed with delicious oysters, mussels and clams.

For nearly 12 years, Hama Hama has partnered with Alaska Air Cargo to fly oysters to cities all over the country including Chicago, New York and Miami. “There’s probably more oysters flying on planes than people think,” said wholesale manager Justin Stang.

“If you want to eat fresh oysters in Chicago, the oysters might actually beat you there if you went to the airport and tried to get on a plane,” he added. “Air travel allows Northwest shellfish to be consumed as fresh as possible all over the U.S.”

“We want oysters and clams to be iconic Northwest foods and that’s why being able to sell them through Alaska Air Cargo to get them super fresh to places around the country is really key,” – Justin Stang

Adapting on the fly at home and in business

These days, Hama Hama is shipping more shellfish straight to consumers’ homes rather than restaurants. Stang says it’s helped their small business survive the pandemic, but restaurants help them thrive. Regardless, it’s been exciting to watch oyster culture grow as people step out of the comfort zones in their kitchens to test their shellfish cooking skills.

“Being stuck at home and still being able to get fresh oysters and clams delivered to your doorstep has really broken down some of the intimating barriers that can come with preparing shellfish and has inspired people to try things they have never tried before or to experiment with different recipes to prepare oysters or clams,” Stang said. “We’re always trying to educate people to become familiar with shucking oysters, I think taking away restaurants has really empowered people.”

Hama Hama is a 5th generation oyster farm that has been in business for over 100 years.

How to shuck oysters at home:

What you’ll need:

Oysters
A pot of water
Oyster knife
Heavy duty gloves
Cloth towel
Ice & lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

Step 1: Wearing gloves or using a kitchen towel, hold the oyster firmly in one hand, cup-side down. The curved side of the oyster should be against the palm of your hand. The point, or hinge, should be facing toward you.

Step 2: Insert an oyster knife into the hinge to pry the oyster open. Tip: Point it down into the cup of the oyster and twist to separate the top and bottom shells.
You should feel a pop! Be careful not to spill the juice or puncture the meat.

Step 3: Transfer oysters on the half shell to a bowl or plate filled with ice.

Step 4: Serve with lemon wedges and enjoy!

Check out recipes on Hama Hama’s website.

Spending more thyme in the kitchen?

“Herbs are the ultimate sidekick, they go with everything!” – Jules Buehler from North Shore Living Herbs + Greens

Jules Buehler has worked for North Shore Living Herbs + Greens as a business development manager for three years, she says you can never go wrong by adding a pinch or two of fresh herbs to any dish (like beautiful basil or rich rosemary).

You can find North Shore Living Herbs + Greens in retail stores from Alaska to Southern California, New Mexico, Salt Lake City, Portland and more.

“Whenever you use a living product, such as culinary herbs, it amplifies the flavor and dish and creates that finishing touch to elevate your dining experience,” she said. “We’re thankful to have such a wonderful and consistent delivery method for our product.”

Every year, Alaska Air Cargo carries about 20 million pounds of food, including herbs and other perishables like vegetables and fruit. Hundreds of thousands of pounds of herbs come from California, Hawaii, Michigan and more.

North Shore Living Herbs + Greens, based 60 miles East of Palm Springs, uses a unique proprietary growing method so their products remain living with the root ball still attached. Every herb is packed with everything mother nature intended and has three times the shelf life, says Buehler.

North Shore’s herbs arrive inside of a “clam shell” to lock in freshness and protection during transportation.

“We have a very unique product that is fresh and beautiful – it can’t be tossed around or mishandled, it needs to be at a certain temperature and delivered efficiently,” she said. “We can always count on Alaska to ensure our product can deliver delight to kitchens all across America especially in a time when people are looking for something to brighten their day and to freshen up their plate of chicken and rice or soup.”

Herbal homemade cleaners

Not only can living herbs bring out so many flavors, but they can also be used as disinfectants and natural remedies for health and wellness. Pair sage with water with a little alcohol to make your very own natural disinfectant that smells wonderful, says Buehler.

“Whenever you’re eating living herbs, you’re getting those healthy enzymes and oils that mother nature intended and are naturally helping your immune system,” Buehler said. “Herbs are great when you’re trying to take small steps toward living a healthier lifestyle.”

North Shore Living Herbs + Greens has been family owned for over 30 years. Owners Leo and Suzette and their 3 children still operate the business today.

Editorial: The importance of sticking together during a crisis

May 21, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

Gary Locke, Former Governor of Washington:

As the first Chinese American to be elected governor in United States history and the first Asian American governor on the mainland, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke has been a leader in the areas of education, employment, human rights and more. As an avid traveler (Alaska MVP Gold) who celebrates diversity and enjoys experiencing different cultures, Locke was troubled to hear stories of COVID-19 triggering bias and harassment of Asian-Americans.

Locke: Over my many trips in and out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, I’ve always been greeted by the warm and friendly faces of travelers and Alaska Airlines employees. Now, more than ever, I realize how valuable and meaningful a smile is in creating human connection. Today, many things remain uncertain, but I know when the time is right, we will be seeking travel and human connection like never before and Alaska Airlines will be there to get us there safely and with the upmost care and welcoming service.

This month, we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage month – honoring cultures and traditions as varied as those from Tonga to Indonesia to China and Japan. As U.S. Secretary of Commerce, I have had the great privilege of traveling around the country and firmly believe the strength and essence of America is our diversity of people, cultures, customs, and perspectives of every shape and color. That diversity has been the fuel of our nation’s dynamism. And generations after generations of Asian American Pacific Islanders have contributed mightily to the progress and defense of America and have much to be proud of.

I thus find it troubling to hear many Asian-Americans have been targets of harassment and bias amid the COVID-19 crisis. We can and must do better. Now more than ever, it’s imperative we all come together to overcome this pandemic. During Asian Pacific American Heritage month, I hope all of us can take the time to recognize and reaffirm to a friend, colleague, neighbor—whether in person or virtually—that they are cared for, respected and play an integral part of our country’s ability to rise up from this crisis. As a former diplomat, I’ve learned that we can build lasting bridges by starting with a simple act of kindness to our fellow individuals. I am heartened to learn that Alaska Airlines has always been an advocate for diversity and inclusion and is taking additional steps to spread awareness of this topic and is equipping their employees with the tools to support each other and Alaska’s guests. Keep up the great work!

Annabel Chang, Alaska Airlines Bay Area vice president and executive sponsor of the Air Group Pan-Asian (AGPA) business resource group:

Chang: Alaska has always strived to cultivate a workplace where different points of view are welcomed, where employees feel empowered to discuss tough issues and where successful—and unsuccessful— practices can be shared across organizations.

Last month, we virtually brought our employees together to have an open conversation about COVID-19 and the impact it has had on the Asian American community. By talking about the topic openly and discussing best practices, our hope is to empower our employees to do the right thing, lead with kindheartedness and support each other and the communities where we fly. Our Alaska Airlines Foundation is also supporting free virtual training that is being jointly provided by Asian Americans Advancing Justice and Hollaback. The virtual training shares practical tools and tips to respond to discriminatory situations.

This year’s Asian Pacific American Heritage Month is more important than ever – it provides us the opportunity to share our stories and highlight the contributions of Asian Americans. And as we begin to travel again, I look forward to the sheer joy of experiencing new places, catching up with old friends, and simply smiling at each other.

Alaska Airlines employees at 35 airports accept #MillionMealsChallenge & deliver 100,000 meals to 20 states

May 20, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

Last month, in partnership with the Alaska Airlines Foundation, Alaska Airlines donated more than one million meals to help local food banks across the country. To help double our impact, we launched the “Million Meals Challenge” to invite our guests and employees to join us in supporting the most vulnerable communities affected by COVID-19.

When our Food & Beverage team approved another round of donations earlier this month, more than 250 Alaska employees banded together to deliver a total of nearly 90,000 pounds of food throughout 35 communities in 20 states, providing an additional 100,000 meals to help feed those in need.

In Alaska, even flooding won’t stop our employees from doing the right thing

nome-alaska-CSA — Customer Service Agent David delivers donations in Nome, Alaska.

The state of Alaska is known for its mesmerizing glaciers, rich culture and breath-taking landscapes, but also communities that never give up. That’s why employees throughout the state didn’t hesitate to participate in the #millionmealschallenge — even during inclement weather.

Together, employees delivered a total of 7,328 pounds of food across four small Alaskan communities, which included donated onboard items such as picnic packs, crackers, nuts, shelf-stable creamer and granola bars.

The donated items were delivered to a local food bank in Barrow, a soup kitchen and women’s shelter in Kotzebue, and homeless shelters in Nome and Bethel, who are preparing to serve Alaskan villages displaced by possible evacuations due to spring flooding.

“Rondi, Tracy and I delivered snack packs to the local homeless shelter just in time as the Kuskokwim River was reaching the banks,” said Michael, Bethel station manager. “Fortunately, the ice broke with minimal flooding on just a few roads in town.”

Bay Area surprises & delights children

Last month, employees donated close to 40,000 repurposed onboard kids snack packs to the San Francisco Mayor’s office for the purposes of feeding youth in-need during the COVID-19 global pandemic. The snack packs were delivered to Ella Hill Hutch Community Center, where the food was distributed to community partners including the Latino Task Force, Code Tenderloin and Hope SF.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has hit underrepresented communities, particularly Hispanic and Black, the hardest, and I am so thankful to be a part of a company that is constantly looking for ways to give back,” said Oriana Branon, who co-leads the Latin Culture Resource group at Alaska Airlines and is the director of Community and Public Relations in the Bay Area.

New York never stops

Team JFK made three rounds around New York, delivering food provided in partnership from our catering partner LSG, restaurants Bean Post Pub in Brooklyn, Leo’s in Bay Ridge and Love Conquers Cancer’s ‘Feed Them First’ campaign.

The group of employees delivered the donations to the New York Fire Department Engine 247 in Brooklyn who supports the community of Borough Park, one of the hardest hit neighborhoods with over 6,000 residents infected with COVID-19.

Employees made their second stop at Staten Island University Hospital to help feed health care workers. Lastly, team JFK visited the New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital in the neighborhood of Park Slope.

Alaska spreads the ‘aloha spirit’ during an overwhelming time

With one of the highest unemployment rates in the nation, many families in Hawaii have been hit hard by the economic impact of COVID-19. Following the reduction of our flight schedule to the Hawaiian Islands, we donated over 26,000 pounds of food to help support several organizations across four islands.

On Kauai, we joined Mayor Derek Kawakami and the Hawaii Food Bank, Kauai Branch and the Kauai Independent Food Bank in the County of Kauai’s first food distribution, which has been providing 500 food boxes to Kauai families every Saturday this month.

“The need has been overwhelming, but we are humbled by the outpouring of support,” said Mayor Kawakami. “Mahalo to Alaska Airlines for their generous donation of 14 pallets of food for the cause.”

Similarly, on Maui, our donations have supported Mayor Michael Victorino’s weekly food distribution, which has handed out over 5,000 bags of food and produce to residents across Maui County.

Bon appétits et coeurs in Las Vegas

Alaska employees in Las Vegas are used to organizing monthly volunteer events, but as the current pandemic has affected the ability to volunteer at local food banks, they had to get creative. That’s when Las Vegas’ ‘swag team’ came up with a brilliant idea to give back while supporting a small business.

Employees reached out to a local French bistro called Rosallie Le French Café, who was more than willing to support the cause. With the help and support of other employees, the LAS team managed to fundraise enough money to pay the bistro to prepare and box food for people in need. Employees then delivered the food to Desert Springs Hospital’s Emergency Room department as an act of appreciation.

Snack packs were also donated by Alaska to 150 nurses between the ER department and ICU at the Sunrise Children’s Hospital and Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center. The remainder of the snack pack donations, totaling 1,250 pounds, were gifted to the local Three Squares Foodbank in Las Vegas.

There’s still time to join the #MillionMealsChallenge

Every day, we hear more stories like these, all because people like you and our employees recognize that even in times of uncertainty, there’s a need to keep going for each other, for our guests and for our communities, and we can’t thank you enough.

Between now and the end of May, you can support your local food bank through our Million Meals Challenge Virtual Food Drive. If you’re in a position to help, please give what you can to the following food banks below:

Actions we’re taking to keep our guests & employees safe

May 20, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

We know this can be an uncertain time to travel. As always, the safety of our guests and our employees is our number one priority. We are working directly with health officials as well as industry leaders for updates and best practices to do everything possible to keep our guests and employees safe.

On the plane

New: We’ve blocked all middle seats, except for families, to give our guests more space and the flexibility they need to achieve social distancing on large aircraft and aisle seats on smaller aircraft at the time of purchase through June 30. Learn more
We’re temporarily reducing food and drink service onboard. Learn more.
We’ll have limited upgrades available as we implement seat restrictions to help with social distancing onboard the aircraft.
Flight attendants are required to wear masks and gloves during service.
We’re enhancing aircraft cleaning between flights and will continue to evaluate our cleaning procedures. This is in addition to the regular cleanings between flights.
We will temporarily not be refilling used cups, including in First Class. We’re encouraging our guests to #FillBeforeYouFly to help us reduce our onboard waste.
We’re suspending warm towel and blanket service in First Class.
We’re discontinuing onboard sorting of recycling items on Alaska and Horizon flights to reduce touching passenger-handled materials.
On some flights, we’re removing inflight entertainment tablets except those to Hawaii and Florida (where we have the highest usage of tablets) to make room for additional trash carts.
We’re encouraging guests to travel with hand sanitizer or anti-bacterial wipes out of an abundance of caution.
- Wipes can be used to clean armrests and tray tables. Note: The use of commercially available cleaning wipes on our leather seats can deteriorate the top coat of the leather. The cloth might look dirty afterward, but it’s actually the leather dye color that’s coming off.

At the airport, in our lounges & our company offices

New: We’re installing social distancing decals to remind people to ‘Mind Your Wingspan,’ at each one of our airports where we fly. The stickers, spanning 6 feet apart, can be found at our ticketing counters, baggage drops, customer service centers and gate areas. The Alaska branded stickers will be deployed systemwide over the coming weeks.
New: Guests and employees will be expected to wear a face covering throughout any Alaska Airlines touchpoints and during the flight experience until further notice. Additional masks will be available, as supplies allow, for those who forget to bring one. Learn more
We’ve made the difficult decision to temporarily close all of our lounges, except our location at Seattle-Tacoma Airport in the D Concourse. Read more actions we’re taking in our lounges.
We’re deploying hand sanitizer to all airports and company offices for use in our crew and break rooms, lounges, ticket counters and gates.
We’re in communication with airports at locations we fly to ensure appropriate cleaning for public spaces.

Looking after our guests

Children traveling alone will only be accepted on nonstop flights through April 30, 2020. Learn more.
Entry restrictions are in place for travel to Canada and Costa Rica. Learn more.
We’re offering flexible travel options for our guests who decide not to travel because of concerns related to the virus. View full details at alaskaair.com.
Based on advice from medical experts in infectious diseases, we’re urging guests not to travel if they’re sick with an acute respiratory illness.
It never hurts to wash your hands. The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and clean running water. Learn more at cdc.gov/coronavirus/.

Hawaiian Holdings Announces Webcast of Investor Presentation at the 2020 Wolfe Transportation and Industrials Conference

May 18, 2020
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
1 min read

HONOLULU, May 18, 2020 /PRNewswire/ — Hawaiian Holdings, Inc., parent company of Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. ("Hawaiian"), today announced it will webcast a presentation by Peter Ingram, Hawaiian's president and chief executive officer, at the 2020 Wolfe Transportation and Industrials Conference on Tuesday, May 19, 2020. The webcast will begin at approximately 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

The presentation will be open to the public through a live audio webcast accessible in the Investor Relations section of Hawaiian’s newsroom.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: HA). Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com. Follow Hawaiian's Twitter updates (@HawaiianAir), become a fan on Facebook (Hawaiian Airlines), and follow us on Instagram (hawaiianairlines). For career postings and updates, follow Hawaiian's LinkedIn page.

For media inquiries, please visit Hawaiian Airlines' online newsroom.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hawaiian-holdings-announces-webcast-of-investor-presentation-at-the-2020-wolfe-transportation-and-industrials-conference-301061068.html

SOURCE Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

First Copper River salmon arrives safely in Seattle

May 15, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
5 min read

Photos by Ingrid Barrentine

Alaska Airlines Captain Brent Carricaburu presenting the first Copper River salmon, which weighed in at 33 pounds.

One taste is all it takes to fall in love with Copper River salmon. Known for its bright orange or red color and mouthwatering taste, anyone lucky enough to enjoy a fresh filet of this wild, not farmed, fish won’t be disappointed by its flavor and freshness.

The salmon made its way from the state of Alaska to Seattle this morning by Alaska Air Cargo – the first of many shipments expected this season, which runs now through September.

“Alaska Air Cargo has long been a partner of the Alaska seafood industry,” said Torque Zubeck, managing director of cargo for Alaska Airlines. “Now more than ever, we provide a critical service that directly impacts the economic vitality of the region. In Cordova alone, more than half of its 2,200 residents are directly involved in the fishery or related business and industry.”

Photos:

More than 200 health care workers at Swedish Medical Center – Ballard will be among the first to enjoy the season’s first catch of prized Copper River salmon in appreciation for their efforts to help stop the coronavirus.

Alaska Airlines, Trident Seafoods, Ocean Beauty Seafoods, and Copper River Seafoods – the region’s largest seafood processors, Copper River Marketing Association and famed Seattle chef Tom Douglas are partnering to provide a delicious meal to health care workers, as well as feed the community while raising money for Food Lifeline.

Safety from first catch to delivery

With guidance from government and medical professionals, Trident Seafoods CEO Joe Bundrant, along with others in the fishing industry, put extraordinary workforce and community protection measures in place, with the goal of ensuring a safe and successful season this year.

“Our No. 1 priority at Trident Seafoods is keeping our communities, our employees and our fishermen safe,” said Bundrant. “We are doing everything in our power to deliver seafood safely and in record time to allow our customers to enjoy our Alaska salmon products fresh and ready to serve thanks to Alaska Air Cargo.”

To keep our employees safe and to align with Centers for Disease Control recommendation, Alaska Air Cargo employees who cannot maintain six feet of social distance during interaction with co-workers have also started to wear face coverings.

Alaska Air Cargo employees begin to unload Copper River salmon, part of the first shipment to arrive in Seattle.

Where you can find salmon to purchase:

Make some room in your fridge, the following stores will be stocked with Copper River salmon to purchase. Note: curbside pickup is available at some locations, please call ahead to confirm.

QFC
Whole Foods Market
Haggen’s
Town & Country
Thriftway
Metropolitan Market

You can also purchase a gourmet dish from Tom Douglas’ website for a limited time. On Sunday, May 17, Chef Tom Douglas will be “Grilling for Good,” he and his team will prepare six-ounce grilled Copper River sockeye salmon entrees with sides and make the meal available for purchase on Tom Douglas’ website, with all proceeds donated to Food Lifeline. Order while supplies last!

Cooking at home: Try Tom’s sake steamed Sockeye salmon with sake butter recipe

“I like to use sockeye salmon for this dish – its firm flesh and rich flavors are perfect for steaming. You could, of course, use other types of salmon and this is a good technique for other firm-fleshed fish such as ling cod or halibut. Chinese bamboo steamers work well and they are not very expensive, though any steamer set up is fine. I love the aromatic steam you get in this method of cooking: the water really does have a beautiful aroma and it permeates the salmon.” – Tom Douglas, Seattle chef & restaurateur

What you’ll need

1 Stalk lemongrass, split lengthwise
2 cups water
2 cups sake
10 Ginger coins, sliced 1/8” thick
2 Star Anise pods
Peel of 1 orange
1 ½ pounds salmon fillet, cut into 4 portions

Directions – Serves 4

Bruise the lemongrass with the back of your knife to help release the aromatics.

Set up your steamer (we use a large saucepan or a wok with a Chinese bamboo steamer set over it). Place the lemon grass, water, sake, ginger, star anise, and orange peel in the bottom of your steamer (ie. the saucepan or wok). Bring to a boil. Lay the salmon fillets in the steamer basket and cover with the steamer lid. Steam until the salmon is just done, about 4 to 5 minutes.

Place a salmon fillet on each plate. Spoon some of the sake butter over each portion of fish. Garnish with a lime wedge. Serve with Crispy Sesame Rice Cake or Aromatic Steamed Rice and steamed baby bok choy. Pair it with some sake or a glass of classic Oregon Pinot Gris.

Bon appetit!

Vital Connectivity (Part 2 of 2): Getting Hawai‘i’s Medical Professionals Where They Need to Be

May 14, 2020
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
6 min read

As Hawai‘i makes progress containing COVID-19, we can thank medical professionals for helping keep our communities healthy by working around the clock and traveling throughout our islands during the pandemic to conduct testing and deliver care.

We have been honored to support the selfless efforts of these healthcare heroes, including doctors, nurses, assistants and volunteers who have flown nearly 500 complimentary Neighbor Island flights since April. We’ve extended the program through the end of May to ensure their critical services continue to reach communities statewide.

Photo credit: The Queen's Health Systems

Emergency Department workers at The Queens Medical Center holding flowers that were donated to them as a mahalo.

A frequent guest onboard our flights has been Dr. Catherine Oliver, an emergency medicine physician who works at the Wound Care Center at The Queen’s Medical Center on O‘ahu. Oliver is part of a group of five other physicians and physician assistants who take turns rotating shifts at wound care centers throughout the state, including Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital on the Island of Hawai‘i and the Molokai General Hospital. As they travel, Oliver and her team remain focused on ensuring patients are receiving the consistent care they need during the pandemic.

“Being able to maintain this service safely and not let [COVID-19] interfere with caring for our Neighbor Island patients has been so important to us. I think it’s much safer for me to travel than my patients, so I am happy I can still do that,” Oliver said. “The patients are so grateful to not have to travel weekly to get their care, and it is so much better for them medically. Plus, I love going…so it’s a win-win-win.”

Photo credit: Catherine Oliver / The Queen's Health Systems

Dr. Catherine Oliver waiting for take-off while traveling via our complimentary Neighbor Island medical flights.

During her visits to Moloka’i and the Island of Hawai‘i, Oliver treats patients diagnosed with COVID-19 while continuing to work with wound care cases. She notes that patient communication has been more important than ever to comfort people experiencing anxiety from the pandemic.

“I find myself acknowledging their fear as valid but also letting them know about the way how we are trying to keep them safe and working to keep patients out of the hospital as much as possible,” Oliver said.

Photo credit: Catherine Oliver / The Queen's Health Systems

Oliver taking a selfie with her team at the North Hawai‘i Community Hospital.

The use of more personal protective gear (PPE) such as face shields, N-95 masks and gowns have also impacted patient communication, she said.

“While [PPE] keeps our patients and ourselves safer, it makes it more challenging to communicate and connect,” Oliver said. “It’s not so bad for my existing patients, but for people I am seeing for the first visit, it can be weird to meet them this way and sometimes harder to hear each other.”

Rene Pagaoa, vice president and executive director of clinical operation at Premier Medical Group Hawaii (PMGH), said her team has also had to be nimble and adjust to changing conditions. Its urgent care unit in Windward O‘ahu now serves as a COVID-19 testing facility and PMGH providers have transitioned to virtual care services.

“If someone started having a cough or needed to be seen for routine examinations, we’d assess and treat them through a telehealth platform,” Pagaoa said. “We do have some home visits for some patients that need more hands-on treatment but want to avoid them having them come in.”

Photo credit: Premier Medical Group Hawaii

PMGH staff en route to Moloka‘i, via our daily 'Ohana by Hawaiian flights out of Honolulu, to conduct more COVID-19 testing on the rural island.

PMGH’s clinics throughout O‘ahu and the Island of Hawai‘i offer specialized services ranging from urgent and family care to pain management, physical rehabilitation and occupational medicine. In response to the pandemic, it has since added drive-through, walk-up, and onsite COVID-19 testing on O‘ahu, Maui, the Island of Hawai‘i, and Moloka‘i – including sites dedicated for seniors and the homeless.

Photo credit: Premier Medical Group Hawaii

A drive-through COVID-19 testing site that PMGH staff organized for the Windward Oʻahu community.

As many as 20 PMGH staff have relied on our complimentary medical travel program to provide COVID-19 services throughout the Neighbor Islands.

“We’ve been flying a mixed team of our O‘ahu-based nurses, physicians, physician assistants, medical assistants, and staff out to Maui and the Big Island about once a week, and also have some specific individuals flying back and forth throughout the work,” Pagaoa said. Staff not traveling, she added, continue treating patients, physically in the office, virtually through telehealth and in-person with home visits.

Photo credit: Premier Medical Group Hawaii

PMGH staff donning their PPE and taking a selfie while overseeing a pop-up COVID-19 testing site in Hana, Maui.

After their long workdays traveling the state, Pagaoa and Oliver agree there’s been a sense of shared pride throughout the medical community.

“In the beginning, it was quite stressful, and I think almost everyone on my staff has at one time reached a breaking point, but we’ve also adapted,” Pagaoa said. “My staff is tight-knit and if anything, we’ve grown stronger and have learned to lean on each other and pick each other up when we need it. The experience has brought us closer together and has made my employees feel good about their work. Everything we do, pre-, during and post-COVID-19 will always be for what’s best for our community and state.”

Photo credit: Premier Medical Group Hawaii

PMGH staff and volunteers gather at the end of a long day on Maui testing Kahului residents for COVID-19.

“I've seen a lot of extra kindness between colleagues, despite the added stress and uncertainly,” Oliver said. “Most of the conversations I have with my colleagues from other specialties often start with ‘How are things for you?’ There is an understanding that all of us are affected in some way by this and it is heartwarming to see everyone checking in on each other.”

On behalf of our entire Hawaiian Airlines ‘ohana,

mahalo nui loa to Hawai‘i’s selfless essential workers.

Photo credit: The Queen's Health Systems

Fly with peace of mind: Flexible travel options

May 14, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

We’re offering more flexible travel options to give our guests peace of mind. These include:

- No change/cancellation fees for travel through May 31, 2020. View the details.
- Travel restrictions are in effect for multiple regions. View regional advisories.
- Please contact us only if you’re unable to change or cancel your trip online.

We’re continuously working with medical experts and federal agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to evaluate our preventative processes. We’re also tracking & answering frequently asked questions as best we can.

FAQs about changing your trip:

What if I used miles? If you used miles to purchase your ticket for a ticket that falls within one of our flexible travel policies we’ll re-deposit the miles in your Mileage Plan account.

How long does it take to retrieve the miles back into My Account? Your miles will be back in your account in 24-48 hours.

What if I used a companion fare? If you cancel your reservations entirely, and if it included a companion certificate, we will reinstate your certificate with original expiration date or June 30, 2020, whichever comes later. Please call Reservations for assistance with canceling tickets using companion certificates

What if I purchased a nonrefundable First Class, main, or award ticket? If you purchased a nonrefundable First Class, main, or award ticket for travel that falls within one of our flexible travel policies, you may change without fee or, cancel your trip and deposit the funds into your My Account wallet or credit certificate via email.

What if I purchased a Saver fare? If you purchased a Saver fare that falls within our flexible travel policy, you may cancel your trip and deposit the funds into your My Account wallet or credit certificate via email.

What do I do if I’ve already paid the change fee? If you were recently charged a fee for a change or cancellation made to a trip that now falls under one of our flexible travel policies, please contact Reservations. We’ll take care of the change fee to your original form of payment.

What if I’m traveling after May 31st? For tickets purchased on/before February 26, 2020, our flexible travel policy only applies to travel through May 31, 2020. We will continue to evaluate the situation and may make adjustments as warranted.

What if I purchased my ticket through Expedia? Or another third-party website? If you purchased your tickets through a third party, such as Expedia, another travel agency, or another airline, contact them directly for assistance.

Visit alaskaair.com for more details.

Strava challenge: Walk, hike, climb or bike for a chance to win miles

May 14, 2020
Stories
Ali Garbino
2 min read

While you’re not flying through the skies, you might be flying through your workouts! We’ve partnered with Strava, the #1 fitness app for runners and cyclists, to give away 250,000 miles to guests with our Miles on the Ground challenge.

One lucky person who joins the challenge will win 100,000 miles, two people will win 50,000 miles and five people will win 10,000 miles––for a total award of 250,000 miles!

Alaska employees, including Airlines President and cycling-enthusiast, Ben Minicucci, are also rising to the challenge––and want you to join in!

“Most of you aren’t able to fly and earn miles right now, so we wanted to start a friendly competition to reward some of our Mileage Plan members for the miles they’re putting in at home,” said Minicucci. “Strava is a great way to connect with friends, family and other athletes and stay healthy during this stressful time. Be safe and have fun!”

How to join:

If you track at least 360 minutes of physical activity on the Strava app between May 16 and May 30, 2020, you’ll be qualified for a chance to win up to 100,000 miles!

Whether you get there by exercising 45 minutes per day, four days a week or 30 minutes per day, six days a week—however you reach 360 minutes is up to you! Here’s a list of applicable activities you can record using the app.

Those who complete the challenge by May 30 will receive a completion badge and congratulations from Strava with a link to a page on alaskaair.com to register for the drawing. Participants must register by June 7 to be entered to win the miles.

We’ll be able to travel to faraway places soon. Until then, lace up your sneakers, dream up your next destination and download the app for a chance to win.

For complete terms and conditions of the challenge, visit https://www.alaskaair.com/content/legal/terms-conditions/contest-rules

Video: Our care is never canceled

May 13, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
1 min read

Your travel plans might be on hold for now, but our care is never canceled.

When you’re ready to fly with us, we’re ready to give you the safest, cleanest and most enjoyable travel experience from start to finish. With the best employees around, we’re continuing to transport critical cargo and medical supplies, enhance our cleaning processes and support the communities where we fly, our guests and employees.

Watch our resilient spirit in action and know that we can’t wait for you to pack your bags and fly with us again soon.

Vital Connectivity (Part 1 of 2): Transporting Essential Construction Workers Between our Islands

May 12, 2020
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
6 min read

If you look at the sky and happen to see one of the few Neighbor Island flights we still operate, chances are a member of Hawai‘i’s construction industry is onboard.

Our Neighbor Island network, even at significantly reduced flight frequencies due to the COVID-19 pandemic, remains a key transportation link for Hawai‘i’s essential workforce – from construction crews to stevedores, utility technicians and medical professionals, among others – who board our aircraft daily to travel across our archipelago to provide vital services to local communities while generating important economic activity.

In this two-part blog series, we’re recognizing the grit of our state’s construction workers and healthcare heroes.

Maryl Group Construction, Inc., Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company and Commercial Roofing Inc. are among construction organizations with offices and job sites statewide that have relied on our airline for at least a decade. Team members travel regularly between islands to build affordable housing, maintain and upgrade critical infrastructure, and work on school buildings and senior living complexes.

“These people continue to put on their hard hats and swing their hammers to ensure that Hawai‘i’s infrastructure is still taken care of when most of the state is shut down,” said Jill Tokunaga, senior director of North America sales and community relations at Hawaiian Airlines. “We are proud partners with several construction businesses that rely on a healthy Neighbor Island network to get their jobs done.”

Photo credit: Maryl Group Construction, Inc.

Workers at a Maryl Group Construction, Inc. residential job in Kona, maintaining social distancing protocols.

Maryl Group Construction, Inc. workers fly weekly between O‘ahu and the Neighbor Islands to work on large-scale projects such as affordable and market-rate housing communities. One development on Maui will include a new community center, fitness facility, playground, dog park, picnic area and garden. Other projects include shopping centers and retail spaces.

Timothy Choi, who oversees marketing and client relations at Maryl Group Construction, Inc., said its more than 300 workers are focused on maintaining productivity while prioritizing each other’s health and safety. “We purchased 600-plus cloth face masks from several home-based businesses to support the local community and ensure our workers are safe while traveling and working,” he said.

Photo credit: Maryl Group Construction, Inc.

Choi, pictured front, takes a selfie with his colleagues while behind the scenes of a retail project in Kona.

Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company, the largest general contractor in the state, is also building new housing and working on community-based projects across the islands, such as a new auditorium at a public high school. Between 20 to 30 workers are traveling on any given week, in addition to managers who fly frequently to oversee projects, said Robert Tomas, senior project manager at Hawaiian Dredging.

“The construction industry in Hawai‘i continues to carry on as an essential business. With this we have a responsibility to support Hawaii’s economy,” Tomas said. “We continue to take necessary steps to protect our personnel as well as our owners, subcontractors and vendors who have to travel and come onto our project sites.”

Photo credit: Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company

In response to the pandemic, Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company holds all daily briefings outside and requires everyone to practice social distancing.

Commercial Roofing Inc. works with clients of all sizes – from state buildings to nursing homes – to provide emergency and longer-term roofing services. The company has been busy responding to emergency water intrusion and mitigation calls during Hawai‘i’s rainy spring season and preparing for a large-scale roofing project for public schools statewide.

“Full-blown, our employees are making close to 180-200 Neighbor Island trips per month. We have crews moving at least once a day working on projects that require a highly specialized team like ours,” said Guy Akasaki, president and CEO of Commercial Roofing Inc.

“Our work during COVID-19 keeps critical facilities watertight and we’re grateful that we can support our local community during an uncertain time for the economy,” added Dana Akasaki, corporate marketing director at Commercial Roofing Inc.

“We can’t paddle there fast enough, so you guys get us there fast enough,” Guy Akasaki joked.

Photo credit: Commercial Roofing Inc.

A sanitation station and social distancing marker at one of Commercial Roofing Inc.'s job sites.

In addition to existing safety protocols, each company has established expanded policies to ensure traveling staff, and the communities they’re working in, remain protected. Job sites feature safety stations with ample hand soap, water and hand sanitizer. Other protocols include social distancing, limiting the number of workers on each site, heightened cleaning measures, regular check-ins with employees, and increased use of personal protective equipment. 

Photo credit: Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company

Hawaiian Dredging workers following social distancing measures on the job.

As the pandemic evolves, construction partners are finding new ways to support their workers while also learning from others in the industry.

“In a time like this, we rally together. We unite, we talk to each other and ask each other for advice and ideas,” Guy Akasaki said. “We’ve been through SARS and swine flu, and we know that Hawai‘i can still rise up. Times like these bring out the best in all of us. “

Thumbnail photo credit: Maryl Group Construction, Inc.