November/December 2024 Newsletter
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I hope you and your families are enjoying this time together as we get ready to welcome the new year.
November and December have been eventful and exciting months. In November, the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) was awarded a $72 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) to expand broadband access throughout our communities.
In December, I also had the honor of joining Holu Hou Energy to unveil an innovative solar energy model at the Aliamanu Military Reservation.
Mahalo and happy holidays!
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Sylvia Luke
Lieutenant Governor
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Bridging the Digital Divide: $72 Million to Expand Broadband Access on Hawaiian Home Lands
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In this day and age of technology, connectivity and reliable internet are not just something nice to have; it’s a necessity.
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This investment is not just about improving internet access—it's about creating opportunities for economic growth, enhancing educational access, and ensuring that every resident in Hawaiʻi has the digital resources they need to succeed. By expanding our internet infrastructure, we can empower individuals, foster innovation, and bridge the gaps that have kept many in underserved communities from fully participating in the digital age.
Mahalo to Associate Administrator Doug Kinkoph, the NTIA team, and all our partners for creating a more connected Hawaiʻi and working tirelessly to ensure digital equity for all. This collaboration represents a powerful step toward a future where technology serves as a tool for empowerment, equality, and opportunity.
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Biden-Harris Administration Grants Over $6 Million to Hawaiʻi for Digital Inclusion Initiatives
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By enhancing our islands' internet infrastructure, we are ensuring that every resident can thrive in the digital age.
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Opening of Hoʻōla Fitness Center at
Women's Community Correctional Center
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I had the privilege of joining the Women’s Prison Project and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to celebrate the opening of Hoʻōla, the new fitness center at the Women’s Community Correctional Center in Windward Oʻahu.
This new center highlights the power of public-private partnerships in driving meaningful change. The collaboration between the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the community, and private organizations was key to making this vision a reality. By working together, we can build a stronger, more supportive system that provides individuals with the resources they need to transform their lives.
For these women, having access to exercise and the chance to prioritize their health is a crucial part of their rehabilitation journey. Initiatives like this play an essential role in fostering spaces that promote health, healing, and personal growth.
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Innovating Solar Energy for a
More Resilient Hawaiʻi
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Hawaiʻi was the first state in the nation to set the ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045. However, reaching this milestone is a true kākou effort—no single entity can do it alone.
I recently joined the unveiling of a groundbreaking solar energy model at the Aliamanu Military Reservation. This project features a state-of-the-art energy storage system that enables multiple residential units to connect to a shared energy network or "cluster." Spearheaded by Holu Hou Energy, the U.S. Army Garrison, and Island Palm Communities, this pilot project represents a promising collaboration between energy leaders and military housing partners.
As we know, Hawaiʻi faces some of the highest living costs in the nation. Technologies like EnergyCluster, when implemented statewide, have the potential to significantly reduce energy and utility expenses for our local residents. This initiative is a testament to the power of innovation and sustainability working hand in hand to drive Hawaiʻi closer to its clean energy future. I extend my deepest gratitude to all our partners for their vision and commitment to making this a reality.
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> Hawaii News Now: State to receive $72M to expand internet access, digital literacy for Native Hawaiians
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A Year in Review: Name Changes and Apostilles
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In addition to the various priorities our office handles, the Lieutenant Governor’s office has several statutory duties, with the primary ones being Name Changes and Apostilles.
Name Changes allow individuals to legally adopt a new name different from their current one. Apostilles authenticate the seals and signatures of officials on documents, ensuring they are recognized in foreign countries and can be used internationally.
Our team has been committed to improving our office services this year. In 2024, our staff received over 1,300 name change applications and completed more than 8,900 apostilles.
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Supporting Maui small businesses at the 11th Annual Made in Maui County Festival.
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Welcoming teams from around the world to the 8th Annual Pacific Rim Slow-Pitch Championships.
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Meeting with kūpuna at the Hui O Hau‘ula Kupuna BreakFEST.
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Visiting the Lānaʻi Health Fair and learning about health wellness, monitoring, fitness, and educational outreach.
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Attending the Veterans Day Ceremony where we honored all who served our country.
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Meeting students at the Kauai Construction Career Day.
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Celebrating the hard work of the Filipino community at the United Filipino Council of Hawaii Foundation’s Progress Awards.
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Attending the Waiawa Ohana Visitor Center Commemoration Ceremony, where it will provide a supportive environment for families of incarcerated fathers.
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Presenting at the Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council Annual Convention on sustainable agriculture and the vital role of cattlemen and ranchers.
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Joining artist Solomon Enos in painting the new mural for the State Capitol Pools.
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Attending the Kauai Economic Development Board’s Annual General Membership Meeting and celebrating their 40th anniversary.
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Celebrating the holiday season at the Kaneohe Christmas Parade. Big mahalo to the organizers for bringing the community together!
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Cheering on participants at the starting line of the Honolulu Marathon.
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Attending the Kaʻu Hospital Groundbreaking Ceremony and celebrating the expansion of healthcare services for the community.
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Celebrating the holidays at the Catholic Charities Christmas Party.
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Visiting the Future Farmers of America Oahu District Tournament to see the special skills and talents of all the students.
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Hours
Monday to Friday
7:45 AM - 4:30 PM
(Except state holidays)
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Location
Hawaiʻi State Capitol,
415 South Beretania Street, 5th Floor
Honolulu, HI 96813
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