Amidst the flurry of activity here at the capitol, with floral arrangements arriving and gift baskets being exchanged, there’s an apprehensive air about what the 2009 Hawai`i legislative session will bring.
After all, this year the buzz word has been economy, economy, economy. The current budget crisis, the looming deficit, the rising unemployment rate, the recent decline of tourism in Hawai`i are all signs we’re in for an uphill battle. Legislators, however, are hopeful and ready to see what they can do to help turn this around and build a better future for the state of Hawai`i.
So in this spirit, join us at the Capitol tomorrow, January 21st, for the Opening Day festivities beginning at 10 a.m. in the Senate Chamber. The program features:
* Ho’omau Address and Pule-
Messrs. Pono Shim & Daniel Akaka, Jr.
* National Anthem and Hawai`i Pono`i-
Mr. Eric Wahilani
* Administration of Oath to New Members-
The Honorable Ronald T. Y. Moon
Chief Justice, Supreme Court
* Entertainment-
Honolulu Boy Choir, Director: Mr. Kale Chang
Willie K.
For those of you who can’t make it or prefer to avoid the crowds, tune in to Channel 53 to watch the ceremony broadcast live on Oahu at 9:55 a.m. The neighbor islands will be viewing a delayed feed via HITS.