Mufi's Message - October 11, 2020

Hawaii News Now Panel

​Aloha,

On Monday evening, Hawaii News Now will air a special discussion panel on which I was invited to discuss various issues surrounding the upcoming resumption of trans-Pacific travel which is slated for October 15. Also appearing on the panel will be the following individuals:

• Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines President & CEO
• Sherry Menor-McNamara, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President & CEO
• Eric Gill, UNITE HERE Local 5 Financial Secretary-Treasurer
• Dr. Darragh O'Carroll, Emergency Room Physician

This diverse group of panelists is certain to feature insightful discussion and varying viewpoints on topics including tourism, our local economy, and the overall public health of our community. The special will air at 7 p.m. and will be moderated by HNN's Mahealani Richardson. I hope that you'll be able to tune in.

Other Media That May Interest You
"Tourism resumes next week but some say ‘we are not prepared’," KHON, October 8, 2020
"Uncertainty around traveler testing program has many taking ‘wait-and-see’ approach," Hawaii News Now, October 10, 2020

Candidate Spotlight

In our latest installment of HLTA's Candidate Spotlight, we will be focusing on several of the candidates that we have endorsed for election to the House of Representatives.

Sam Kong currently serves as the representative for House District 33 which covers Aiea, Halawa, Newtown, Royal Summit, Pearl Ridge, Waimalu, and Enchanted Hills. He was first elected to the seat in 2014, stepping into the seat vacated by the late Mark Takai. The Air Force veteran is a small business owner and has been an ally of our industry since his election.

Last week, I met with first-time candidate Adrian Tam who is running for House District 22 which is comprised of Waikiki, Ala Moana, and Kaka'ako. In speaking with Adrian, it is very clear that he is eager not only to serve his district, but also to learn more about our industry and what we bring to the table- especially as members of the Waikiki community.

Trish La Chica is currently running for House District 36 which is made up of Mililani and Mililani Mauka. The former investigative journalist is currently the Policy and Advocacy Director for Hawai'i Public Health Institute and has drummed up immense grassroots support throughout this election cycle.

Sam Kong
Candidate for House District 33
Aiea, Halawa, Newtown, Royal Summit,
​Pearl Ridge, Waimalu, and Enchanted Hills
Campaign Website
HLTA Questionnaire

Adrian Tam
Candidate for House District 22
Waikiki, Ala Moana, and Kaka'ako
Campaign Website
HLTA Questionnaire

Trish La Chica
Candidate for House District 36
Mililani, Mililani Mauka
Campaign Website
​HLTA Questionnaire

Mahalo,
​Mufi