It’s not the number, it’s the trendline: Unemployment in Hawaii reached 2.5 percent in December. That’s still historically low, but it’s the fourth notch upward in a row, which is a bit disconcerting.

Tourism economies such as this one are sensitive to the global slowdown, as fewer people decide to travel.

There are still loads of “help wanted” signs posted in shop windows, but they could start coming down, sooner than we know. And for the short term, expect to hear a lot of industry executives arguing before the Legislature that too much is being put on the back of tourism.

Food for furloughed federal workers

Last week, due to the partial federal government shutdown, the Hawaii Foodbank stepped up to assist local furloughed federal workers and military personnel serving in the Coast Guard. Plans are in the works for emergency food bags to be distributed Tuesday, starting at 1 p.m., at Seafarers Union Hall.

Meanwhile, a round of food stamp benefits, through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, was slated to be issued this week. For Hawaii Foodbank information on how to receive assistance or to make a donation, call 954-7869 or visit www.hawaiifoodbank.org/govshutdown.