At 23:59 on Friday, Hawaii became the last nation in the nation to lift its mandate. However, under state guidelines, companies or entities can choose to implement a mask policy. At T&C Surf at Pearlridge Center, you do not need to wear one. Some people like how they can make their own decisions. “I like it,” said Nicole Toma of Pearl City. “It’s kind of liberating.” “I think people should have a choice whether to wear a mask or not,” added Jeffrey Vierra of Aiea. But others still wear masks as a precaution. “We will see how this thing develops,” Vierra said. “But I will probably wear a mask at least next month.” Roseann Vierra-Schoening, CEO of T&C Surf, said many customers still choose to wear masks. “Which is wonderful,” he said. “It’s our little way of keeping each other safe in our community.” At Pearlridge and Kahala Mall, masks are optional in public areas. But they leave it to each store to decide if it will require them. According to a survey conducted by the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, most businesses do not require face masks between employees and customers. “After a few years and the lifting of all restrictions, it provides hope and a positive mindset to move forward with the economic recovery,” said Sherry Menor-McNamara, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. “And returning to a level of normalcy from what we did before the pandemic.” Meanwhile, masks are still needed on public transport, including buses and planes. “I personally like buses and planes where there is air circulating and you can not move or do social distance,” said Thomas. “I think it would be appropriate.” Masks are also imposed on public schools, prisons, jails and airports. “I believe that where there is potential, such as high-risk areas, where there are more people concentrated in one area than I think it should,” Vierra said. Evan Egdamin, from Pearl City, said the end of the mask mandate is a positive milestone. “I think it’s good, I can see everyone’s faces again,” Egdamin said. “You know, you see people walking and you see smiles, I like it.” Others say it will take some time to adjust. “I’m just used to being normal again,” said Quinn Toma of Pearl City. “And it’s kind of weird because we’re used to wearing masks for so long, but we feel so much better,” Thomas said. Copyright 2022 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
