Today, June 11th is a state holiday in Hawaii.  It's Kamehameha Day, celebrating the king who united the Hawaiian Islands under one rule back in 1795.

Since it's a state holiday, most state offices are closed.  Many private businesses also observe the day.

Telltale signs for Hawaii residents:

- Light traffic this morning.

- Plenty of people at Ala Moana Beach Park.

- Nobody answered the phone at a City and County of Honolulu office I called this morning.

- Nobody answered the phone at a private company I called this morning.

I checked around and the following City and County services ARE operating today:

- Honolulu Zoo

- Public Golf Courses, such as Ala Wai, Pali, Makalena, West Loch etc.

Also, metered parking is free in most locations, except for Kalakaua Avenue at Kapiolani Park.  I wonder how they decided on that?

Tonight, KGMB Channel 9 will have a TV special at 6:30 p.m. celebrating Hawaii's special lifestyle and culture.  Check it out if you're at home!

Aloha, Mike Bates

Hawaii realtor