Aloha and Greetings to Everyone! I hope that you and your families have all remained safe and sound.
I want to take this opportunity to let you know what has been happening at BIA-Hawaii during this terrible COVID-19 pandemic period. We reluctantly have had to cancel numerous events… our summer homebuilding show, networking events, some education classes, awards dinners, etc. But we’re still looking into the possibility of getting our golf tournament off the ground. Social distancing concerns have really stifled our ability to physically get together as we have done for so many years. Even our board and committee meetings have been conducted virtually. I would venture to say that no one can really predict what our new normal will be.
Throughout this entire ordeal, your CEO, Board of Directors, staff and committees have been hard at work creating new ways to provide value for your membership. Besides providing updates, precautions and safety information on COVID-19, numerous activities have been conducted virtually… our education classes, planning for our virtual general membership meetings, networking events and other activities. If you have ideas to share, please don’t hesitate to contact the BIA. We also welcome your participation on our committees… membership, education, awards and events, leading young professionals, codes or government relations.
Our building industry being designated “essential” was not by chance, but through the efforts of our government relations committee working with unions and other organizations to convince government officials that we are responsible… by establishing the COVID-19 Project Jobsite Rules… and continuing to monitor government issues. Consequently, we are allowed to still earn a living and provide for our families; unlike many others who are unemployed, hungry and on the verge of being homeless. With the loss of revenue from canceled events, the BIA is also experiencing some difficulty. I would like to request your continued support of BIA-Hawaii through your attendance (virtually), sponsorships, educating your employees through our classes, joining our committees, encouraging new members to join… and especially by maintaining your membership.
I sincerely ask for your KOKUA in keeping our BIA-Hawaii Ohana Strong and Healthy.
Mahalo and Best Wishes to You All.
Dwight Mitsunaga
2020 BIA-HAWAII President
