​On Wednesday February 20th, we hope that you will join us for the 4th Annual HLTA Tourism Day at the Capitol.  This is a popular event with our legislators, who turn out to mix and mingle, talk story and visit our mini trade show.
 
I encourage you all to participate; it is a great way for us to illustrate to our legislators the strength, diversity, and commitment to advocacy that is shared by the members of HLTA. We invite our industry executives to join us at our  annual legislative breakfast meet and greet at the Capitol from 8-9am, which will be well attended by our government leaders. Additionally, we encourage everyone to visit our mini trade show on the 4th floor from 9am-12 noon.
 
Should you have any questions about getting involved, please contact Jared at jhigashi@hawaiilodging.org.

​Tickets to the second annual aio Media Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Awards are going fast! If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, you’re not going to want to miss out on this event. The awards dinner will be held on March 1st at the Hilton Hawaii Village Great Lawn from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

We have a great lineup of entertainment that evening which includes a special showcase from Tihati Productions, a beautiful performance by Miss Aloha Hula 2015 Jasmine Kaleihiwa Dunlap and live music by The Mana’o Company.

To purchase tickets to the event please visit https://hnltix.com/events/hlta. We look forward to seeing you there.

​Mahalo to all those who came out and joined us at our annual Lei Day at the Capitol event this past Tuesday.  It was a morning filled with advocacy and networking as we walked the halls of the State Capitol wishing our elected officials a productive and successful legislative session.   A special shout-out to Sukit Kanaprach and The Orchid Lei Company for sponsoring all the beautiful lei that we presented to our State Representatives, Senators, Lieutenant Governor, and Governor.
 
Upon an early morning arrival, our group split into three teams, to ensure we could greet each of the legislators with lei to wear during the Governor’s State of the State Address.  We also handed out HLTA’s government affairs position statements (found on our website here) as well as a save the date card for our fourth annual Tourism Day at the Capitol event, which will take place on February 20th. We hope many of you will join us for this popular event, which often turns out a fair number of political leaders and allows us an avenue to share more of what we as an industry are doing to help support the economy and the community. This one promises to be another great event! If you want to learn more about participating or would like to have a booth in our mini trade show, please feel free to contact Jared at jhigashi@hawaiilodging.org.

Following our annual Lei Day at the Capitol event, I headed over to Honolulu Hale to testify on the seven transient vacation rental measures being heard before the Honolulu City Council’s Planning Committee.  In a room packed with advocates, mostly in support of the enforcement of illegal TVR’s, I offered comments on the measures before our Honolulu Councilmembers. 
 
I stressed a couple of major points: 
1- There are currently no perfect bills before the Council that addresses all our concerns satisfactorily but action is needed now more than ever.  It is clear where we stand on the issue of illegal transient vacation rentals - we as an industry would like to see transparency, accountability, fairness, and enforcement with substantial fines and penalties.  Most importantly, I reiterated a point that I have shared for some time now: this is not simply a hotel industry versus TVR issue, it is TVR’s versus the community which has exacerbated the affordable housing challenges we face daily; and
2- Key members of the legislature are looking for the enforcement piece driven by the counties prior to fully committing to TVR legislation at the state level.  With the House and Senate in disagreement on a compromise measure for 3 years now, it is time for Oahu to step up to the plate and join the neighbor islands in establishing rules, regulations, and enforcement on transient vacation rentals.  
 
The planning committee will convene again in February to continue its deliberations on this very important issue.  In the meantime, for those of who reside on Oahu, please don’t hesitate to urge your councilmember representing your district to stop kicking the can down the road on this issue and take action while the Legislature is in session. 

​Congratulations to our Women in Lodging & Tourism Committee for a successful event honoring 2019 Woman of the Year, Laura Richards, General Manager of the Hanalei Colony Resort on Kaua’i. The networking event was held at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach on Wednesday evening where many supporters from across the state came to congratulate Laura on receiving this prestigious award.
 
Once again, I’d like to commend Laura for exemplifying the qualities of a true leader in her hotel and her community. We wish her, and everyone at the Hanalei Colony Resort, a prosperous 2019. Also in attendance were past Woman of the Year recipients, Lynette Eastman, General Manager for The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club and Barbara Campbell, Vice President of Retail Leasing & Property Management of Outrigger Enterprises Group.
 
I’d also like to commend our new WIL Committee for executing a wonderful first networking event of the year.  I’m looking forward to supporting  our new (and returning) WIL Chairperson, Julie Arigo, General Manager of Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani will spur the committee to new heights this year. Thank you to everyone who came out to support WIL! 

​I would like to extend a special mahalo to all those who joined us at Pomaikai Ballrooms for our Charity Walk Kick-off Recruiter Breakfast yesterday! It was wonderful to see so many eager recruiters gathered to begin our Charity Walk efforts.  It is truly inspiring to see so many motivated community members ready to fundraise for this year’s walk.
 
Our dynamic emcee duo, Bulla and Lynette Eastman of Aqua-Aston Hospitality, did an great  job in engaging our attendees and informing them of our Charity Walk updates.  As they turned the microphone over to yours truly, I took the opportunity to discuss two upcoming initiatives.  The first was to unveil our partnership with The Wounded Warrior Project Hawai‘i – who will be coordinating a 1K slippah walk with my staff for the morning of Charity Walk. This additional walk is intended to raise funds for a deserving cause, as well as break a Guinness World Record – and have some fun in the process.  Secondly, I announced our Second Annual Charity Walk Bowling Tournament, headed by our partners at Salem Media , will be held on April 12th at Aiea Bowl.
 
My staff also presented on the latest improvements we are implementing for Charity Walk this year. Director of Fiscal Services Jessica Caires reviewed our paper registration process, as well as explained our new deposit protocol, which will allow anyone to make their donation deposits directly to Charity Walk via any First Hawaiian Bank branch.  Director of Membership and Communications Ashley Yonamine presented on the latest features of our crowdfunding platform, MobileCause.  Should you have any questions about either of these topics, please feel free to contact them at jcaires@hawaiilodging.org or ayonamine@hawaiilodging.org.  For any other questions concerning Charity Walk, please contact chief Charity Walk coordinator and Senior Director of Government and Community Affairs Jared Higashi of my staff at jhigashi@hawaiilodging.org.
 
I would also like to thank our Association Chairperson, Glenn Vergara, Senate Energy, Economic Development and Tourism Chair Senator Glenn Wakai, and House Tourism and International Affairs Vice-Chair Representative Daniel Holt for taking time out of their busy mornings to address and encourage our Charity Walk Recruiters.  If you were unable to join us, not to worry.  Please contact my staff – we will be happy to address questions and provide you with any Charity Walk collateral you may need.
 
Congratulations to the Hilton Waikiki Beach for winning our 2018 Charity Walk T-shirt contest.  They held an in-house T-shirt design contest, and design winner Mary Jane Pagaragan was on hand to receive the award, as well as General Manager Henry Perez.  We look forward to seeing what you come up with for 2019!
 
Finally, I would like to extend a Big Mahalo to Enterprise Holdings: Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Alamo Rent a Car, and National Car Rental, who kick-started our Charity Walk fundraising campaign again with a $10,000 donation, to be distributed amongst the four counties.  On hand to present the check this year were Joslyn Bantilan and Rhea Aquiningoc of Enterprise Holdings. Enterprise never fails to support our signature events, including the Citizen-Scholar Awards, the Scholarship Golf Tournament, and our General Membership Meeting: but this annual gift has become their own tradition, and we are deeply grateful.  Mahalo to HLTA Board Member Chris Sbarbaro, Vice President of Sales & Marketing - Hawaii at Enterprise Holdings Inc. and his team for their staunch support of Charity Walk!

Over the last few years, I have been working with Keith Hayashi, Principal of Waipahu High School, to establish the first nationally-accredited tourism and culinary arts academy in the state.  We are currently working on bringing internships and externships to Waipahu students and faculty which will help them achieve vital requirements for national recognition. 
 
Next week Thursday (January 31st) I will be bringing a cohort of hospitality and culinary executives to Waipahu High School at 2:00 p.m. to share our mana’o and experiences with key teachers and staff on the importance of our industry and the emphasis that we place on workforce development.  I would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone who may be interested in participating to contact Edgar Palafox at epalafox@hawaiilodging.org.

On  Wednesday, my two Senior Directors, Edgar Palafox and Jared Higashi, joined me in attending the opening day of the 30th Legislative Session of the State of Hawai‘i.  A few key takeaways from the morning’s processions came from the Senate Floor, which raised concerns on a potential economic recession, spoke to the increase of the minimum wage, and highlighted two of our association’s key priorities: the importance of establishing an airports corporation, and addressing the hot button topic of illegal transient vacation rentals. 

After the swearing in of our state’s legislators, we traversed the corridors of the big square building, setting the stage for our upcoming Lei Day at the Capitol event on January 22nd.  Throughout the afternoon, we visited many of HLTA’s endorsed candidates, both seasoned veterans and freshmen, and shared our sentiments of aloha and congratulations.

On the Tourism Tuesday segment with Mike Buck that I was on this past week, I went into great detail regarding our priority legislative issues. For a full copy of these issues, please click HERE.

.Speaking of Lei Day at the Capitol, a tradition of HLTA, we will be officially welcoming the start of the legislative session by lei-ing our elected officials and dropping off our legislative priorities packet next Tuesday, January 22nd.

We will be meeting at the Capitol Rotunda promptly at 8 am, so that the legislators may wear their beautiful lei, courtesy of the Orchid Lei Company, to the Governor’s State of the State address later that morning. 
 
If you haven’t already done so, I encourage you to sign-up and join us for a morning filled with networking and advocacy. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TODAY. 

​2018 marked another record-setting year for the Visitor Industry Charity Walk, and to keep that momentum rolling, we are starting our Kick-off earlier than ever, in an effort to give everyone more time to rally the troops and fundraise.
 
Don’t forget to register here to learn about the latest MobileCause features, tips and tricks for fundraising, and to receive all your Charity Walk collateral. See you on Thursday, January 24th at the Pomaikai Ballrooms at Dole Cannery Iwilei for our 7:30am breakfast!

​Our Oahu Chapter has been busy at work, preparing details for their first quarter programming, and is excited to announce their first Talk & Tour event of 2019. The Queen Kapiolani Hotel, which unveiled their complete renovation makeover, late last year, will be our first venue. Join us on Thursday, January 31st as General Manager Jeff Perkins and his team lead us through their chic new property.

Of course, no HLTA Talk & Tour would be complete without giving the host hotel an opportunity to showcase their food and beverage – and this one is no exception. Arrive at 5pm to enjoy ono pupus, a complimentary cocktail, and an unobstructed Diamond Head sunset view before the tour begins. 

As a reminder, all HLTA members are welcome to purchase tickets for Oahu Chapter events. Tickets are limited, so sign up here.

​With 2019 just getting underway ,  permit me to  introduce a new feature of my weekly message  - a “Member Spotlight” section. Each week, I will highlight a different member of the association that is demonstrating the spirit of aloha in an exemplary way.

This week, I would like to shine the light on our Hawaii Island Chapter Chair, Craig Anderson. HLTA Hawaii Chapter , in partnership with the Kohala Coast Resort Association, has been providing pastries and other snack items to the TSA agents of the Kona International Airport. This twice-a-day delivery from the resorts is a token of appreciation for those hard-working TSA agents, who provide such a great service to our communities and our industry, all year round. 

I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of all our members who answered the call from  HTA President Chris Tatum,  HVCB President John Monahan  and yours truly , during this time of need for the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites. To date, the donations from the tourism private industry partners total over $260,000, which is projected to keep the Sites open & operational for approximately another month, should the shutdown continue.

Last, but certainly not least: please welcome our newest members of HLTA, as listed below:

Earnonn Kinsella, Allana Buick & Bers
Steven Pang, Atlas Insurance
Devin Fukunaga, Atlas Insurance
Stephen Wright, Avis Budget Group
Richard Davis, Bank of Hawaii
Shelly Sakuma, Coastal Windows & Doors
Tiana Gamble, Creative Design Hawaii
David Murphey, David Murphey Photography
Michelle de Peralta, Guest Supply 
Ruth Newby, Hakuyosha International, Inc. 
Laura Richards, Hanalei Colony Resort
Daniel Ho, Hawaii Self-Storage
Ryno Irwin, Hawaii Unified Industries
David Jung, Hawaiian Rent All
Sarah Taveprungsenukul, Hospitality Maven
Louis Cheng, Mechanical Engineers of Hawaii
Jeff Gray, Netcom Enterprises
Thomas Mangum, PricewaterhouseCoopers
Brandon DeCuir, React Mobile
Santi Oloriz, RF Technologies
Lisa Briggs, Sempra Energy
Rob Iopa, WCIT Architecture 
 

​As is now our tradition, we will be welcoming the start of the legislative session by lei-ing our lawmakers and dropping off our HLTA Legislative priorities.  Join us for Lei Day at the Capitol, on Tuesday, January 22nd.

We will be meeting at the Capitol Rotunda promptly at 8am, so that the legislators may wear their beautiful lei, courtesy of the Orchid Lei Company, to the Governor’s State of the State address later that morning. 
 
I hope that you will join us. Please register here.

​I would like to extend a sincere mahalo to all of you who were able to join us at Sky Waikiki yesterday evening to kick off the new year. We said mahalo to our outgoing Vice President Dean Nakasone, welcomed our new Senior Director of Operations Edgar Palafox, and congratulated Chris Tatum, a former HLTA Board Chair on his new position as President & CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
 
Mahalo to Paradise Beverages, Young’s Market,  Enterprise Holdings, the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa, Castle Resorts, the ‘Alohilani Resort, and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a Luxury Collection Resort, Star Events, Tom Jones of the Hawaii Restaurant Association, and of course the Sky Waikiki team for their contributions to a wonderful event. Thank you to Bonnie Kiyabu, Oahu Chapter Chair, and the Oahu Chapter committee for helping to organize this fun evening. We had a great time, and the costume contest was great fun - mahalo Robin “Tom Selleck" Graf! 

​With the new year comes another Charity Walk, and we are excited to jump-start our Charity Walk momentum earlier than ever before.To allow both private businesses and nonprofits alike more time to fundraise, we are officially inviting you to our Kick-off Recruiter Breakfast on Thursdsay, January 24th. Join us at Pomaikai Ballrooms at 7:30am – each organization may send up to two representatives.
 
Register here to learn about the latest MobileCause features, tips and tricks for fundraising, and to receive all your Charity Walk collateral. See you there!

Hawai‘i’s hospitality industry honored the best-of-the-best of its employees at the 29th Annual Na Po‘e Pa‘ahana (the hard-working people) Awards. Nearly a thousand employees, family members, and industry representatives from throughout the state gathered for the luncheon ceremony, which was sponsored by the Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association, and held at the Sheraton Waikiki yesterday.
 
A total of 65 awards were presented at the event and superbly emceed by KHON2 co-anchors Howard Dashefsky and Marisa Yamane.
 
Mika Kamanao, Front Office VIP Coordinator of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, was named the Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year. Kamanao has 33 years of hospitality industry experience; coupled with her knowledge of Hawaii,  help her to personalize every interaction with Aulani’s most respected guests, which include celebrities, dignitaries, and Make-A-Wish families.
 
Derek Bacigal, Director of Engineering for the Hale Koa Hotel, was awarded Manager of the Year. 28-year-old Bacigal is the youngest Director of Engineering within the Armed Forces Recreation Centers in the State of Hawaii. This millenial supervises maintenance for the 818-room hotel, as well as oversees the renovation projects currently underway at the Hale Koa which total over $108 million.
 
This year’s Na Po‘e Pa‘ahana award winners and runners-up are as follows:
 
Outstanding Lodging Employee of the Year
1st Place – Mika Kamanao, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
2nd Place – Nancy Jones, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
3rd Place – Oralani Koa, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
 
Manager of the Year
1st Place – Derek Bacigal, Hale Koa Hotel
2nd Place – Randi Okuhara, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
3rd Place – Tylun Pang, Fairmont Kea Lani
 
Bell/Valet Person of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Dibiano Bontog, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
2nd Place – Christopher Segi, Trump International Hotel Waikiki
3rd Place – Chad Nakamura, The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – Derek Clemente, The Kahala Hotel & Resort
2nd Place –Vance Patao, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
3rd Place – Dennis Yap, OHANA Waikiki East by Outrigger
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – Mark Guerrero, Maui Beach Hotel
2nd Place –  Travis Waltman, The Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
 
Engineering/Maintenance Person of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Susan Iwasa, The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort
2nd Place – Daven Arcangel, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
3rd Place – Barry Yokoyama, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – Neal Nitta, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
2nd Place – Anacleto Sagucio, Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach
3rd Place – Pono Kahili, Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – Brian Perreira, Lawai Beach Resort
2nd Place – Allan Sagucio, Wyndham at Waikiki Beach Walk
3rd Place – Juan Baptista, Aston Mahala at Kaanapali
 
Food & Beverage Person of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Patrick Ongjoco, Sheraton Waikiki
2nd Place – Todd Mitsui, Trump International Hotel Waikiki
3rd Place – Kan Wat, Halekulani
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – Keola Lasconia, Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
2nd Place – Raylynn Kanehailua, Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Ocean Club
3rd Place – Roger Arrieta, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – Leonardo Dasig, The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
 
Front Office Person of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Khrisna Fabian, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
2nd Place – Kelly Ann Wright, Prince Waikiki
3rd Place – Kanoa Lacerdo-Magallanes, Sheraton Waikiki
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – Samoa Leilua, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
2nd Place – Kalili Pavao, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
3rd Place – Lynn Sato, The Kahala Hotel & Resort
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – Channy-Lyn Motoyama, The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
2nd Place – Debra Arakaki, Pagoda Hotel
3rd Place – Cassel Kanahele, Hokulani Waikili by Hilton Grand Vacation Club
 
Housekeeping Person of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Adelina Cambe, Sheraton Waikiki
2nd Place – Merlita Bagalcsa, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
3rd Place – Olive Tuimaunei, Turtle Bay Resort
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – Lordy Tamayo, The Kahala Hotel & Resort
2nd Place – Romeo Cabilis, Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach
3rd Place – Idena Bumanglag, Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – Elvira Valmoja, Lawai Beach Resort
2nd Place – Cecelia Rabang, The Lotus Hotel at Diamond Head
3rd Place – Dominador “Domi” Flores, Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu‘u
 
Security Officer of the Year
Large Property (over 450 rooms)
1st Place – Kenneth Coyaso, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
2nd Place – Anthony “Tony” Kaahanui, Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa
3rd Place – Marcus Curimao, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
 
Medium Property (200-450 rooms)
1st Place – James LaFave, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas
2nd Place – Si’i Savou, The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
3rd Place – Donald “Dondi” Viquelia, Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club
 
Small Property (under 200 rooms)
1st Place – George Tandal, Sr., Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons – Kalanipu‘u
 
Allied Member of the Year
Interstate Restoration
 
Allied Individual Member of the Year
Carol Shimomura
 
Leader in Sustainability Award
HYATT Hotels Hawaii
 
Hospitality Educator of the Year
Lorelle Peros, University of Hawai‘i – Maui
 
Na Po‘e Pa‘ahana Legacy Award
Tihati Productions
 
Excellence in Community Service Award
Hanalei Colony Resort
 
Woman of the Year Award
Laura Richards, Hanalei Colony Resort.
 
Pūlamahia Award
Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel
 
Chef/Restaurateur of the Year
John Salcedo, RUMFIRE, Sheraton Waikiki

​With the Legislative Session opening in just under two weeks, I am pleased to share with you HLTA’s Government Affairs position statements:
 
Airports Corporation
The Airports Corporation, in which all airports now managed by the state government would be directed by a public corporation, remains a top priority for HLTA. This proposal has been before the legislature three times, but has unfortunately been killed in the final hour on each occasion.  This year we will once again advocate for its early passage and approval by the governor. 
 
The establishment of an Airports Corporation should enable projects and improvements to be completed faster and more cost-effectively than under the current system. The condition of our airports makes the first and last impressions on our millions of visitors, and it is high time we had a corporation like this to make the changes and enhancements the airports need without the delays created by a large bureaucracy. Even better, this corporation will be in place at absolutely no additional expense to taxpayers, as the airlines themselves will help foot the bill.
 
Transient Vacation Rentals (TVRs)
The issue of transient vacation rentals remains a major priority of the HLTA.  Proposed measures addressing this issue have failed to pass both legislative bodies for three years now, and we have since focused our attention on the county fronts.  Over the past year, each of the counties has established (and some have executed) plans to better regulate the illegal short-term rental market. 
From an advocacy perspective, we will continue to work with the Legislature on supporting legislation that will create parity between the traditional brick-and-mortar hotel industry and transient vacation rentals, using the momentum that the counties have started.  Our goals remain:

1. Transparency, openness and accountability for both the online platforms and the individual operators.
2. Creating provisions to address the registration of transient vacation rentals and requiring hosting platforms to further provide detailed information to the department of taxation on the operators from which they are collecting taxes.  
3. Holding the online operators responsible for delisting transient vacation rentals from their sites that do not comply with registration requirements.

​Homelessness
Over the past five years, HLTA and its members have raised well over $2.5 million to relieve the homelessness situation throughout Hawai'i. Last year, we helped pass a bill that would allow the state to distribute matching funds to agencies working with the homeless in tourism-impacted areas.  The HLTA is currently working with the Hawai'i Tourism Authority and Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism to use the allocated $1 million in state matching funds to assist programs dealing with this multi-faceted issue.   
 
Public Safety
Taking a page from the Visitor Crime Solutions Conference that took place in 1997, last year HLTA partnered with visitor industry, public safety, youth, and military stakeholders to host the first-ever Visitor Public Safety Conference.  Much like the 1997 conference, which led to the creation of the Waikiki Business Improvement District and the Ambassadors of Aloha, we utilized this workshop to develop initiatives for us to act upon, such as the creation of an ad hoc committee to address the issue of cabaret licensed establishments in Waikiki.  Police have acknowledged that there has been a lessening of criminal activity during 2018 surrounding the cabaret licensed areas but more needs to be done. This year, we will host the second iteration of this conference early in the legislative session to:

1. Give an overview of public safety statistics. 
2. Address key initiatives being proposed at both the state and county levels where support from the industry would be welcomed.
3. Follow-up with advocacy efforts at both the Legislature and county councils.

HLTA also believes that we should continue best efforts at the federal, state and county levels working with all stakeholders to ensure that our communities and islands are prepared to deal with all natural or man-made disasters. Emergency preparedness initiatives at all levels should be supported and emphasized. For example, HLTA supports the implementation of a long overdue flood control mitigation plan for the Ala Wai Canal.
 
Transient Accommodations Tax on Resort Fees
Last year, HLTA and the visitor industry staved off an erroneous bill that would have incorporated the transient accommodations tax on all amenities and services within a hotel/resort.  We can expect that there could be another attempt to tax the hotel industry’s “resort fee." HLTA’s stance has always been to oppose increases to our hotel tax and the cost of doing business.  Instead, we support collecting the TAT from Transient Vacation Rentals that are not paying their fair share of taxes.

We also continue our strong support for TAT funding priorities to be allocated for marketing funds for HTA, assistance to all four counties and support for the Hawai'i Convention Center.
 
Sports and Cultural Tourism
Working with the Hawai'i Tourism Authority and the Hawai'i Visitors and Convention Bureau, more should be done to attract and encourage world-class sporting, entertainment and cultural activities to come to Hawai'i, providing that such events generate substantive economic benefits to the state. Support should not be limited to marketing funds for these initiatives but also to the renovation and construction of state and county facilities to host these types of events.
 
Workforce Development
One of the challenges that the visitor industry faces is ensuring we have an educated and well-trained workforce that can assume the many jobs and responsibilities in the industry.  HLTA prioritizes and spends considerable time and effort in strengthening workforce development within our educational institutions, touching upon the middle school, high school, community college, and university levels state- wide.  We award tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships annually, we nurture growth with young people in the industry, we inspire student engagement with the professional world, we encourage internships with our member organizations and we involve our industry leaders in mentoring opportunities.  Additionally, one of our overarching goals is to assist and help Hawai’i public schools to seek national accreditation for their hospitality and culinary academies.
 
We applaud the diversification efforts that our state is making to help bolster our economy, but at the end of the day tourism will remain our bread and butter, our core competence.  The realm of hospitality touches all facets of education and employment.  To this end, we have also established committees, councils and initiatives, such as our Generational Mentoring (GM) Program, Engineers Advisory Council, Human Resources Council, Hospitality’s Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs, and our Hospitality Housekeepers Council, to name a few, that support our endeavors in various fields and professions.    We look forward to continuing working with public and private partners, industry stakeholders, such as the Hawaii Tourism Association, to support meaningful, substantive measures and initiatives that meet the challenges of our time.
 
Managing Tourism Better: Quality Tourism Over Quantity Tourism
At times, tourism can become a victim of its own success.  Many are referring to the global phenomenon of dramatic tourism growth as “over-tourism.”  Many destinations around the world have resorted to measures to curb the growth of visitors, some of them draconian.  That need not be the case in Hawai'i if we put in place ways to accommodate growth while preserving our quality-of-life and natural resources. We need to manage tourism better - not just market for quantity in tourism numbers, but constantly identify and incorporate measures that will focus on attracting quality tourism.   Currently, the Counties of Kaua‘i and Maui have formulated and adopted tourism strategic plans to address the challenges of tourism growth and development, HLTA’s goal is to work with all visitor industry stakeholders and partners and the public to encourage similar plans for the City and County of Honolulu, the County of Hawai‘i, and for the state as a whole.           

As we ring in the new year, please join us in saying mahalo nui loa to former Vice President Dean Nakasone as we thank him for everything he has done for the HLTA, and to wish him the best in all his future endeavors. We will also be welcoming Edgar Palafox as HLTA's new Senior Director of Operations, and congratulating longtime board member Chris Tatum as he steps into his new role as President & CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

We know how much our HLTA ohana loves themed parties, so we are excited to bring to you: "Filmed in Hawaii."  Come dressed up as your favorite character from a movie or television show filmed in Hawaii, and you may just win a prize!

We hope that you will celebrate a successful 2018 and a fruitful 2019 with us on January the 10th.  Tickets can be purchased here.

 
Next week, we will be holding our 29th annual Na Po’e Pa’ahana Awards at the Sheraton Waikiki.  This event is an absolute fan-favorite as it serves to recognize the “hard-working people” of Hawai‘i’s number one industry: tourism. These are often the unsung heroes of hospitality who contribute to making Hawai‘i’s visitor industry no ka oi.
 
Aside from the eight traditional Na Po’e Pa’ahana Award categories, HLTA also awards a highly coveted accolade to an allied (non-lodging) member of HLTA, who has gone above and beyond the call in supporting the association’s mission of education, advocacy, and philanthropy.  However, it is my belief that : 1) The industry cannot be thanked enough for what they do, and 2)  there are a lot of people who contribute to the tourism industry and its well-being.  So upon my return to the helm of HLTA I have taken the initiative to grow these special awards.  In 2016, we added three new awards to highlight individuals, groups, hotels, and companies who exemplify leadership and aloha in the fields of sustainability, education, and legacy of contributions to Hawai‘i.   Following the establishment of these awards we subsequently turned the spotlight to distinguish a chef or restaurateur from the industry, and a hotel who has portrayed excellence in the realm of community service. 
 
This year, honors at the Na Po’e Pa’ahana luncheon have grown further as we are launching two new awards.  Upon the recommendation of HLTA’s former Chairman, Gregg Nelson of the Napili Kai Beach Resort, we will now recognize an individual allied member from HLTA who has committed a great deal of time and energy to engage with our committees, programs, and initiatives.  Additionally, as we prepare for the Festival of the Pacific Arts and Culture in 2020, I found it appropriate to inaugurate the Pūlamahia Award, which will be given to a lodging property that cares for and cherishes the Hawaiian culture in their daily operations, management, and through their acts of Aloha. Hope to see you at the Sheraton Waikiki! 

​This past Wednesday, members of HLTA’s Oahu Chapter joined myself and my staff, to once again help Salvation Army distribute gifts through their Angel Tree Program to those in need.

While we work with the Salvation Army on other projects, such as their signature holiday Bell-ringing (earlier this month), this is a uniquely heartwarming experience. It is a privilege to see firsthand the selfless work that the Salvation Army and its Volunteer Corps put in, to truly make this the season of giving.

Mahalo to all our volunteers! We look forward to extending our support again next year.

December always marks my favorite time of year.  Ask anyone that knows me: they would tell you that I am one of the the biggest fans of Christmas around.  Of course, coupled with the festivities comes holiday parties, many of which our jovial members host. 

​Over the last few weeks I had the joy of attending parties hosted by Pacific Guardian Life, Securitas, and our very own Hospitality Housekeeping Council, to name a few.  Mahalo to Board members Carol Shimomura, Vice President of Employee Benefit Sales for Pacific Guardian Life and Securitas Area Vice President Sanj Sappal for their annual holiday party invites which were appropriately held at Oahu Country Club and Waialae Country Club.  Additionally, I would like to send a big shout-out to our Hospitality Housekeeping Council Chair, Hao Dang Tanacsos, and the HHC board for throwing a stellar Christmas gathering at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach’s Voyager Club. 

​We are just three weeks away from one off our biggest events of the year: Thursday, January 10th will be our 29th Annual Na Po’e Pa’ahana Awards! In case you missed the announcement made earlier this week, you can find the list of all the finalists here. If you still need to buy your tables, not to worry – registration is still open, so make sure you buy them now, via this link.

This luncheon is such a special event, and a great way to honor the tremendous efforts of those who make our hospitality industry no ka oi. I look forward to seeing you there.

​We are always happy to have visitors at the HLTA office, and were pleased to have a surprise visit yesterday afternoon. Our HLTA Chairperson, Glenn Vergara, and his Waikiki Resort Hotel ohana stopped in to wish us a Merry Christmas. Mahalo for all that you do, and especially for visiting us. 

 As we head into the holiday weekend, I would like to wish everyone a Mele Kalikimaka! 

​Yesterday afternoon, I joined the Marriott International leadership team to speak on HLTA’s and the visitor industry’s legislative priorities.  Marriott International Area Vice President (Hawai‘i & French Polynesia) Harris Chan, and newly appointed Hawai‘i Tourism Authority President, Chris Tatum, were accompanied by Marriott General Managers and key executives from across the state for one of their annual executive meetings.  During my presentation, I covered our key priorities: from the regulation of transient vacation rentals at the county level, to the implementation of an airports corporation, defending against transient accommodations taxes on resort fees, and our homelessness and public safety initiatives. 

Additionally, I covered the hot topic of “overtourism,” a term that has been coined by many to describe the increasing number of tourists that are visiting destinations throughout  the world - resulting, in many instances, in draconian measures aimed at halting tourism. 

We should view and deal with “ overtourism" by keeping the following three points in mind:
1. It is not enough to simply focus on marketing tourism - we need to be equally concerned about managing tourism better;
2. We,  as a state, should be targeting quality tourism rather than focusing strictly on quantity tourism; 
3. We, as an industry, need to be at the table when such discussions are held so that we can help guide these community deliberations in a thoughtful and measured manner. 

As I have stated repeatedly, major kudos to Kaua‘i and Maui, through the hard work of our HLTA Chapters, county government, and industry partners, in developing Tourism Strategic Plans to address this issue.

If there are any organizations or businesses within the HLTA membership that would like me to present our legislative priorities and advocacy efforts, on behalf of our industry, to your team, please contact my Senior Director of Government & Community Affairs, Jared Higashi, at jhigashi@hawaiilodging.org. 

HLTA President & CEO Mufi Hannemann, with David Tanuvasa, Principal of Aiea High School, and Calvin Shimomura, Complex Area Personnel Specialist for the Central Oahu District of the Department of Education. ​

​I have always held a soft spot for public education, having attended three public elementary schools while growing up in Kalihi, so it was an easy "yes" when Calvin Shimomura from the DOE’s Central Oahu District, and husband to HLTA board member Carol Shimomura of Pacific Guardian Life, approached me at our General Membership Meeting at Ko Olina to be a speaker at their Principal’s meeting. 

Dozens of educational leaders from across Central Oahu gathered at the Hawai‘i Okinawan Center in Waipio yesterday.   During the meeting, I was joined by Choco Le’a Owner Erin Kanno,  Hawai‘i Gas’ Oahu General Manager Kevin Nishimura, and President and Principal Broker of Engel & Völkers Honolulu Kay Mukaigawa to speak on a panel regarding leadership and our current workforce.

During the panel discussion, I had the chance to share my mana’o on the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence, dealing with the millennial workforce, addressing education within the classroom, and how teachers can better assist our youth in preparation for their future careers.  As a staunch supporter of mentorship and professional growth, I also spoke to how we as employers should be embracing millennials, which have quickly become the largest generation of employees in today’s workforce.  The proof is in the poi as I have instituted many young professional initiatives over the last couple decades, which include: my Pacific Century Fellows Program, the Po’okela Fellows Program - which I pioneered during my tenure as Mayor of the City & County of Honolulu, the hospitality industry’s young professional committee “HYPE”, and the Generational Mentoring Program at HLTA.            
 
On the topic of educational development, I pointed to the model of career pathways, and early college programming that some high schools have adopted.  I used the leading example of Waipahu High School, which HLTA has been working with to establish the first nationally-accredited tourism and culinary arts academy in the state.  We are currently working on bringing Waipahu students and faculty internships and externships which will help them achieve vital requirements for national recognition.  I put it out there that we would support programs that encourage our young people into the state's number one provider of jobs: tourism. I anticipate great things working with our Central Oahu schools.

​​This morning, members of HLTA’s Oahu Chapter led by Chair Bonnie Kiyabu were stationed at 6 sites throughout Waikiki “ringing” in the holidays, in partnership with the Salvation Army for their annual Red Kettle Campaign.  Mahalo to all the volunteers and site leaders who took time out of their morning to support the bell-ringing drive and helped raise a combined $1,170 for at-risk keiki and families struggling during the holiday season. Our partnership with the Salvation Army is one that we enjoy participating in, and we look forward to supporting their cause for the many years to come.

Together with HLTA Chair Glenn Vergara and other executive board members , we were delighted to meet this year’s 2018 Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Scholarship recipient, Melanie Tancinco.  As I mentioned in a prior Mufi’s Message, Melanie aspires to become an Executive Chef, and is currently a line cook at the Halekulani Hotel’s five-star French restaurant, La Mer. One of her notable accomplishments was competing in the Chaine des Rotisseurs Young Commis Competition, a prestigious event where young Chefs (under age 27) can display their talents and creativity in a competitive environment.

While immersed in the tourism and culinary industry, her plan is to absorb as much as possible, while allowing guests to indulge in the dishes she prepares. Melanie will continue her education at UH West Oahu in Culinary Management. We applaud her efforts in becoming an Executive Chef. To all of our scholarship recipients, that are diligently pursuing their goals, we support and appreciate your endeavors.
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​On our most recent episode of Tourism 101, I discussed the importance of perpetuating Native Hawaiian culture in the hospitality industry. Featured guests, Kumu Hula Vicky Holt Takamine and Michael Pili Pang, elaborated on their strong connections to Native Hawaiian culture here in Hawai’i. It is in the spirit and preservation of our island’s culture that they have been leading efforts to bring to fruition the Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FESTPAC) coming to Hawai‘i in the Summer of 2020.

This “Olympics of Pacific Island Culture” invites 28 nations of Oceania to bring with them their best performers and artists in the fields of poetry, art, film, fashion, dance and much more, to portray an overall representation of their living culture. A big mahalo to Vicky Holt Takamine and Michael Pili Pang for sharing their passion & insights and a big shoutout to HLTA board member Kisan Jo - President of Prince Resorts Hawaii for hosting a reception for FESTPAC at the Prince Waikiki recently. 

To see Vicky and Michael on our latest Tourism 101 episode, please click here or visit ThinkTech’s YouTube playlist of all our Tourism 101 episodes.

If you are interested in appearing on Tourism 101, either as a guest or as a host, please contact Melina Hicks of my staff at mhicks@hawaiilodging.org.
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​​Each year, our Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association honors the individuals of our visitor industry, who go beyond the call of duty and demonstrate professionalism, outstanding service, and the spirit of aloha. The prestigious Na Po’e Pa’ahana Awards luncheon is right around the corner and you don’t want to miss out, so buy your tables now. Please join us in recognizing the best-of-the-best in Hawai‘i’s Hospitality Industry on January 10th at the Sheraton Waikiki.

Following our 29th annual Na Po’e Pa’ahana awards luncheon, HLTA will be holding its annual holiday party at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. We invite you to join us in the Hawai’i Loa Room for a vintage Hawaii on-screen theme! Wear your best Magnum PI costume, or dress as your favorite Hawaii Five-0 character. Ticket details will be released shortly.

​On behalf of the Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association, the state’s largest private sector visitor industry organization, I offer my sincere congratulations to longtime friend, Chris Tatum, who has just been unanimously confirmed today as the new President & CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

He is a diligent and experienced executive, who has played a pivotal role in Hawai‘i’s visitor industry since his permanent return to Hawai‘i in 2001. While a student at Radford High School , he began working in tourism as a summer employee at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, which eventually led to him being Area General Manager of Marriott Resorts Hawaii. Additionally, Chris has served in a variety of leadership positions that buttressed his Marriott career path - from being the former chairman of the Hawai‘i Lodging & Tourism Association in 2010- 2011 , when I was first hired to head HLTA , to the current Chairperson of the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau, Chris has truly devoted his time and talents  to our industry.

Having known Chris for many years  I can personally attest to his passion and meticulous work ethic which will serve him well in his new capacity at the helm of HTA. As a board member of HLTA, he has co-chaired our Government Affairs Committee so he is very familiar with our issues and priorities at the big square building and at the county level. 

We look forward to our partnership with HTA’s new leadership and anticipate great things ahead as we work collaboratively. Congratulations Chris!

Following my speech at the Hawai‘i Ecotourism Association’s annual luncheon (see Mufi’s Message 11/16), I was invited to be the speaker at the Rotary Club of Waikiki’s meeting at the ‘Alohilani Resort this past Wednesday.

For those who may not be familiar with the Rotary Club of Waikiki, this group of philanthropically-driven members has a long history as one of the largest Rotary Clubs in Hawai‘i. Chartered in 1939, the organization is comprised of business, professional, and community leaders who strive to exemplify the Rotary motto of 'Service Above Self' in their daily lives.

I have had the honor of speaking to Rotary Clubs in Hawai‘i on a number of occasions and through different professional capacities.  This week, I had a hana hou performance on my presentation to the Hawaii Eco-tourism Association and continued my discussions on overtourism and the importance of managing tourism better.  Having worn many “visitor industry” hats in both the public and private sectors I have always advocated the point that we as a state need to focus on quality tourism rather than quantity of tourists.    I pointed to specific examples from cities around the world that have resorted to draconian measures in dealing with the issue of overtourism.  Some jurisdictions have instituted visitor caps, while other countries have gone to extreme measures, one example being the island of Boracay (Phillipines), which was closed to tourists, by Presidential order, for 6 months to allow for environmental and infrastructural restoration.

The issue of overtourism in our state is nowhere close to some of those severe cases around the world, but as we near the 10 million annual visitor mark, we must stay proactive in addressing this concern.  As I alluded to in an aforementioned Mufi’s Message, I applaud the HLTA Kaua‘i Chapter and MHLA for the work they have accomplished with their respective county governments and industry partners in coming out with tourism strategic plans that address this very pertinent topic.  Next is for Oahu, Hawai‘i Island, and the State as a whole to come up with similar initiatives.

I would like to extend a warm mahalo to Rotary Club of Waikiki’s President, Stephen Morgan, my introducer, Gene Grounds, the board of directors, and the lively Rotarians for having me speak to them about this timely topic.
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Please join us next Thursday, December 6th for Oahu Chapter’s annual Salvation Army Bell Ringing Drive from 9 am to 11 am. We will be positioned at 6 locations throughout Waikiki: the Waikiki Business Plaza, Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort and Spa, Outrigger Waikiki Beach, Waikiki Beachwalk, and the Waikiki Bank of Hawaii.

If you’d like to participate please email Melina Hicks at mhicks@hawaiilodging.org or call our office at (808) 923-0407 to sign up for a shift. Come out and help “ring” in the holidays for those in need during the Christmas season. Monies raised every year from the Red Kettle Campaign help the Salvation Army provide gifts for at-risk keiki, assist families struggling during the holidays, and feed the hungry throughout the islands.

Make sure to bring your holiday spirit on December 6th, we look forward to seeing you there!
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Help us kick off 2019 at the HLTA New Year’s Party on Thursday, January 10th at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. Members of our Oahu Chapter committee & HLTA staff are working hard to make it a party you won’t forget! Stay tuned as we release more details in the coming weeks.