Maui Umpire Headed To Williamsport

Congratulations to Jaime Perez! He received word last week that he has been selected to work the 2019 Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA August 15th to August 25th.

Perez was presented with the news from his wife Debbi, and the Umpire in Chief for the Little League West Region, Mark Bernstein during a weekend cruise that was hosted by Bernstein. Perez is just the second Hawaii umpire to ever be chosen to participate at the Little League World Series.

Perez, a former player from California, has lived on Maui for the past 8 years. He has attended the World Series previously to watch friends umpire. To be selected as one of 16 umpires for him is the crowning jewel of his umpiring career. Congratulations again on your achievement and recognition!

October Tourism Survives Storms

Maui had growth in both visitor spending and visitor arrivals for the month of October in comparison to the same time last year according to the Maui Visitors and Convention Bureau.

Although visitor spending was down in August and September due to Hurricane Lane and Tropical Storm Olivia, spending was back up in October to $377 million. Even with the storms interrupting the months of August and September, for the 10 month span of January through October visitor spending was up 10.9% to $4.26 billion. This total puts Maui on track to break last year’s record.

Air travel to Maui has increased making it an easier destination for visitors which will in turn increase the amount of visitor spending. Although the tourism industry is fragile and affected by multiple sources, Maui remains focused on continuing to make Maui a top global destination.

51 Day Strike Comes To An End

Workers from 5 different hotels throughout Hawaii celebrated Tuesday afternoon when an agreement was finally reached between UNITE HERE Local 5 union and Kro-ya owners of hotels that are operated by Marriott.

More then 300 workers have been on strike from the Sheraton Maui beginning October 8th. Some workers have been employed by the hotel for almost 40 years. A 4 year agreement that included wage and benefit increases are part of the rumored agreement. No official contact specifics have been released.

Employees are eager and excited to be able to return back to work.

Public Hearing For Molokai Island Plan

A public hearing is planned for tomorrow, Friday November 16th, regarding the proposed revised bill for Molokai Island Community. The hearing will start at 5:00 pm at the Kaunakakai Elementary School Cafeteria.

A new an updated version of the plan has been undergoing a rather lengthy review since 2014. The last community plan was done in 2001. Community plans are supposed to be updated every ten years. Points under review for the new plan include changing the document name to “Molokai Island Community Plan”,  addressing climate concerns, and maintaining Molokai’s rural character and traditional Hawaiian living.

Those who wish to view the updated plan and the bill can do so on the Maui County Government page. You can also pick up a copy during business hours at the Office of The County Clerk on the 7th floor, or at the Molokai County District Office.

Maui Police Foundation Community Fundraiser

The new Maui Police Foundation will be having their launch fundraiser at Cafe O’Lei today, Wednesday November 14th, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

The non-profit will focus on enhancing public safety and community relationships with the Maui Police Department. The goal of the foundation will be to supplement Maui County Police funding for their special programs including youth outreach and equipment.

Businesses and individuals are welcome to make donations and become a “Friend Of The Maui Police Foundation.”