Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 25, Number 1, 1 January 2008 — What to expect in 2008 [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

What to expect in 2008

Bnyd P. Mūssman TrustEE, Maui

Aloha Kākou, As we begin another year of life on this earth I thank God for the opportunity to be here and to experience all that has occurred and will occur here, the ups and downs, the joy and tears, and the challenges of eaeh day. At the Office of Hawaiian Affairs mueh ean be expected in 2008. I look forward to seeing the Akaka Bill heard in the Senate and enacted into law. That's a big bite but not impossible in 2008. Then there are a number of other efforts that I expect to see OHA continue to lead the way: 1. Housing for especially those with less than 50 percent Hawaiian blood. Those with more already have access to Hawaiian Homes and for the rest some relief is needed, whieh OHA is in position to address. Never having been involved in providing housing, OHA will be breaking new ground when it finally gets its act together and secures housing for our people that they ean afford. 2. In the area of health, I hope to see OHA heeome more actively involved in the fight against illegal drugs with the first shot being aimed at the treatment stage. Our Health and Human Services Hale is working on an interesting and promising new treatment program and will hopefully be able to implement it in 2008. If so, iee addicts, eoeaine addicts and aleohol abusers may be able to finally break their habits. Though not a guarantee, we may be able to plug the puka and stop the flow of our people toward self destruction. 3. In education, our Hale hopefully will begin working with health and business to offer better information to students, parents and the workforce to help them prepare for and obtain rewarding and meaningful employment. I hope to see this coordination

become an integral part of planning for the future and also the introduction into designated career paths that will help all Hawaiians. 4. In business and economics, OHA has stepped up with the Mālama Loans available at every First Hawaiian Bank. In addition, we have an annual business conference and support others like the Maui Native Hawaiian Chamber in encouraging Hawaiians interested in business. In 2008, OHA will continue to assist Hawaiians to succeed in their own enterprises and offer loans, direction, education and counseling. 5. In communications, OHA will become involved in the internet as well as continuing our loeal radio show and TV spots, Ka Wai Ola, and the newspapers. It is important that we be able to inform and advise all, and the more comprehensive a system we have, the better for all. 6. A resolution regarding past due ceded lands payments should be reached. 7. In 2008, I will be visiting and meeting with loeal groups on Maui to hear their concerns and inform them of OHA's resources and opportunities for them to include Kau Inoa. In regards to the $3 milliion in grants to be given out in 2008, may I offer some pointers. OHA awards to nonprofit organizations only. If you don't have one, hook up with one for your application. The application period is April 1 to June 30. You need to attend a class given by OHA for potential grantees. This will be given early this year. First timers are given preference. If you have applied elsewhere, that is good. If you have matching funding, that is good. If you ean show a robust sustainability, that is good. I wouldn't bother seeking a grant for travel overseas. And so here's to 2008. May we remember our ancestors and their values to include respect, humility and gratitude. May God be with us all as we go forward with faith. □