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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted on: Wednesday, May 14, 2003

Grant to pay for new unit at Wai'anae health center

By Gordon Pang
Advertiser Capitol Bureau

The Wai'anae Coast Comprehensive Health Center received a $1.75 million check from the federal government yesterday for a new healthcare training unit.

David Sampson, assistant secretary of commerce for economic development, presented the check to Richard Bettini, the medical center's executive director, during a ceremony at Gov. Linda Lingle's office.

The planned three-story, 20,000-square-foot unit will allow expanded medical services and more than double the number of students from 61 to 130.

"These jobs are very sorely needed in the Wai'anae region," Sampson said.

"This grant will have the double impact of helping Wai'anae people gain job skills and also building up the number of qualified medical personnel in the area," Lingle said.

Sampson also presented a $100,000 check to the state Office of Planning so it can complete a comprehensive economic development strategy for the state.

Tomorrow, Sampson is expected to present a $2 million check to the Maui Economic Development Board for a new business incubator building for startup companies at the Maui Research and Technology Park.