GOVERNOR CONVENES MEETING OF 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF STATEHOOD COMMIMSSION

November 15 - Governor Lingle welcomed members of the 50th Anniversary of Statehood Commission as they gathered at the Hawai`i State Capitol for their first meeting. 

The Governor outlined three of the most important issues the commission will have to address: an emphasis on the past vs. the future; cultural sensitivities; and the inclusion of both residents and visitors.

"We must make certain that our young people don't take our history for granted," said Governor Lingle.  "In order to celebrate this milestone, we need to remember our past and look ahead to our future." 

The 25-member commission was established this year under Act 140 to develop, plan and coordinate activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the admission of Hawai‘i to the United States.

"This celebration will be a meaningful and fun instrument to unify our state," Governor Lingle told the members. "I am excited to hear the ideas you come up with."