Mufi's Message 2.15.19

Tourism Day at the Capitol

​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.

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Waipahu High School - Marauder Cafe

Waipahu High School’s academies are growing and thriving. This spring semester is the first time that Waipahu has been able to hold two sections of their Culinary Arts class. Now, regardless of whether it’s an “odd” or “even” period day, there are aspiring students learning about hospitality, food service, and what it takes to run a dining room. This hands-on class, facilitated by Waipahu educator Elaine Matsuo, provides these high schoolers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culinary experiences.

The Marauder Café, which is open to the public by reservation on Tuesdays and Thursdays, is a wonderful opportunity to support these bright, motivated young minds. Ingredients used in their dishes are locally sourced whenever possible with proceeds funneling back into the program to pay for students’ lunches.

I invited Wade Gesteuyala, General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei to join my staff and I last Friday for Opening Day Part 2 and enjoyed some ono Korean dishes prepared by the students. Mahalo to Principal Keith Hayashi, his faculty and to their future culinary leaders for giving us an up close look at their Culinary Academy.

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aio Media Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Awards

​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.