Mufi's Message 1.17.20

Government Affairs Talk Story

The New Year is in full swing and we are off and running. Over the past week, HLTA put on three events that I'd like to share with you.

On Tuesday, we held a Government Affairs talk story event at the Prince Waikiki where industry stakeholders took advantage of the opportunity to meet with State legislators and learn more about their priorities for this year's Legislative Session. A variety of issues were raised and discussed, such as TVRs , the much needed repairs at the airport, homelessness, transient accommodations tax, crime and state/county duplication of services. 

Mahalo to the following legislators who participated in our talk story event:
Senate President Ron Kouchi
Senator Kurt Fevella
House Tourism Chair Richard H. K Onishi
Rpresenative John H. Mizuno
Representative Scot Z. Matayoshi
Representative Val Okimoto

A final mahalo to the Prince Waikiki for hosting us!

Charity Walk Kick-Off

On Thursday, HLTA held its annual Charity Walk Kick Off Breakfast at the 'Alohilani Resort. The event was highlighted by a $5,000 donation from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation for this year's Visitor Industry Charity Walk. New ideas and initiatives were introduced to bolster fundraising and participation efforts for 2020! ​

Polynesian Bowl

This Saturday, The Polynesian Bowl, a high school all-star game, will be held at Aloha Stadium for the fourth year and will feature the next generation of Polynesian football stars. This morning, we held an event at James Campbell High School that featured Polynesian stars of the past like four-time Super Bowl champion Jesse Sapolu and two-time Pro Bowl selection Vai Sikahema along with college standouts AJ Epenesa and Ewa Beach native Tua Tagovailoa and Polynesian Football Hall of Fame inductee David Dixon. 

The students were treated to speeches from each of the athletes and had a great time with more than a few "Roll Tide" calls coming from the audience. Special shoutout to JCHS Principal Jon Henry Lee and Vice Principal Shayne Greenland for making today a reality. A similar event was also held at Kaimuki High School, thanks to the support of Principal Jamie Dela Cruz and Bulldog Football Coach David Tautofi. That assembly featured former Denver Broncos star Ma’a Tanuvasa, PFHOF inductees Haloti Ngata and Dominic Raiola, and Outland Trophy Winner Penei Sewell. 
 
Yesterday, the House and Senate presented a joint legislative proclamation  to PFHOF board members Jesse Sapolu, Ma’a Tanuvasa, and Vai Sikahema. Accompanying them to the State Capitol were HTA’s Chris Tatum and yours truly representing HLTA.