Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeOahu mall welcomes furlough Friday business

Oahu mall welcomes furlough Friday business

By Duane Shimogawa - bio | email

AIEA (KHNL) - So where did some kids and parents go, during this day off? A Central Oahu shopping center hosted a few hundred parents and kids Friday.

It gave parents a free alternative to hours of television and video games.

It's a welcoming sight in these unwelcoming times. As parents struggle to find ways to keep their kids busy on this first Furlough Friday, Pearlridge Center welcomes their much needed business.

"We wanted to offer something that was both educational and fun and we give families something to do at least for this first one, until they can figure out what to do with the other 16 Furlough Fridays," Pearlridge Center marketing director Scott Creel said.

From art and craft workshops to a lesson in music, many parents, including the German's flocked to Pearlridge Center.

"Something for the kids to do, since they have no school on Friday, so we decided to come down," Honolulu resident Willie German said.

German works nights, so he got the chance to experience this Furlough Friday with his son, Isiah.

"So what are you learning today,?" KHNL asked. "Drums and guitar," Isiah said.

The elder German says this event definitely beats the other alternative.

"Probably go the beach or maybe catch a movie, since they have something like this, it is good," Willie said.

For Pearlridge, it's an opportunity to re-connect with their customers.

"For us, it's not about sales specifically, like it ordinarily would be, it's more about being part of the community and understanding that our customers need help occasionally," Creel said.

Pearlridge Center officials say they're extremely pleased with Friday's turnout. They aren't sure yet if they'll hold more Furlough Friday activities in the future.