This year, Governor Linda Lingle appointed 24 individuals from the East Hawai'i area to serve on 20 different state boards and commissions, including the State Board of Nursing, Board of Veterinary Examiners, Commission on Transportation, Island Burial Council, Hawai'i Tourism Authority, Commission on Fatherhood, Board of Medical Examiners, and Endangered Species Recovery Committee.  In addition, the nine members of the newly established Governor's East Hawai'i Community Advisory Council were also sworn in today.

"These volunteers provide a valuable public service by serving on a board or commission," said Lt. Governor Aiona.  "The time and expertise they contribute will help improve government service and enhance the quality of life for all people of Hawai'i." 

Nearly 1,300 people statewide serve on more than 160 boards and commissions that were established by the state constitution, state statutes, or executive orders.  This year's appointees include 353 people from around the state to serve on boards that cover a wide range of industries and issues.

The list of new appointees from East Hawai'i is attached.  Lt. Governor Aiona will preside over a swearing-in ceremony for West Hawai'i appointees on August 23. 

NAME -   BOARD / COMMISSION

Andrew David Bisset, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawai'i Service Area Board

Thomas O. Brown, Health Planning Council, Hawai'i County Subarea

Laura Y. Chock, Board of Massage Therapy

Michael R. Dias, Commission on Fatherhood

Patrick James Hart, Endangered Species Recovery Committee

Ted H. S. Hong, Esq., Merit Appeals Board

Carol R. Ignacio, Board of Directors of the Hawai'i Public Housing Authority

Kuulei A. Kiliona, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Hawai'i Service Area Board

Elwood Ichiro Kita, Board of Veterinary Examiners

Carla Kurokawa, Hawai'i Workforce Development Council