Aloha goes to Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Mazie K. Hirono and the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii welcomed over 1,500 people to the third annual Taste of Hawaii on Capitol Hill Wednesday.

Attendees were greeted with fresh orchid lei, and learned about a variety of Hawaii businesses, including manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and more.

“Hawaii on the Hill took over the Capitol today and sent a rounding message that Hawaii is open for business,” Hirono said. “This year, we had our largest attendance yet. Mahalo to the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, and the participating businesses who made this year’s Hawaii on the Hill possible.”

Fifty-seven businesses representing five islands were headed by the Hawaii on the Hill Honorary Chairs.

Hawaii on the Hill, a partnership between Hirono and the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, is a two-day event in the nation’s capital that gives Hawaii businesses the opportunity to meet with federal officials while also showcasing Hawaii businesses and products to members of Congress, administration officials, and the Washington, D.C. community.

“The third annual Taste of Hawaii on the Hill and Policy Summit was a resounding success,” said Ron Kouchi, Senate president.

“Hawaii businesses were provided with memorable educational and networking opportunities during the Hawaii on the Hill Policy Summit and were able to truly showcase their talents by introducing their Hawaii made products to avid attendees at the Taste of Hawaii on the Hill,” he said.

Kauai was represented at Hawaii on the Hill by companies and organizations, including Kauai Kookie, Kauai Coffee, Salty Wahine, Koloa Rum, Lappert’s Ice Cream, Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai Filipino Chamber of Commerce, Kauai Cigars, and Aqua Engineers.

“It is important that we all work together to support Hawaii businesses,” said Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr.