As I am writing this, 1,800 hotel workers, Unite Here Local 5, are on strike for better wages, benefits, and working conditions. Some of our members have participated on the picket lines, and we recently sent a band to play at Local 5’s action at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. We received words of appreciation from Local 5 and the workers on the line for the concert on the beach in support of their cause. Thanks go out to these musicians for making some glorious noise and boosting our presence in the community of unions, which is ultimately the community of working people trying to make a living in this expensive paradise.
Diamond Head Theatre is going strong, and has a new contract, with wage increases over the term of the five-year agreement.
The Hawaii Symphony Orchestra’s Gala Fundraiser was a huge success. The orchestra performed, and this year, the Hawaii Youth Symphony participated in a side-by-side with the orchestra. Ballet Hawaii and the Hawaii Opera Theater also participated. Congratulations to all for a job well done!
Studio 909 is “cooking” with events by our members. We send out info on what’s happening, and you can also call (808) 596-2121 to find out who’s playing, or to see about hosting your own event.
The Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) continues to fund concerts, live stream events, and performances at retirement and care facilities. More about that in this issue…
All for now.
In Solidarity,
James F. Moffitt
From the Fall 2024 issue, Ke Ola O Na Mele