STAND. COM. REP. NO.  97-08

Honolulu, Hawaii

                , 2008

RE:   H.B. No. 2351

Honorable Calvin K.Y. Say

Speaker, House of Representatives

Twenty-Fourth State Legislature

Regular Session of 2008

State of Hawaii

Sir:

     Your Committee on Tourism & Culture, to which was referred H.B. No. 2351 entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT MAKING AN APPROPRIATION FOR THE PACIFIC AVIATION MUSEUM PEARL HARBOR,"

begs leave to report as follows:

     The purpose of this bill is to honor our nation's rich legacy in Pacific aviation and enrich Hawaii's visitor industry by appropriating $1,000,000 for fiscal year 2008-2009 for phase 2 of the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor (Museum).

     The Museum, Military Affairs Council of The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, and numerous concerned individuals supported this bill.  The Department of Defense supported the intent of this measure.  A concerned individual submitted comments.

     Your Committee recognizes the significant benefits that may be realized from the establishment of the Museum.  The Museum has the potential to provide a boost to our visitor industry, adding to Hawaii's reputation as a unique, world-renowned travel destination.  The Museum also has the potential to educate visitors and residents alike regarding the history of Hawaii, and the U.S., with respect to Pacific naval aviation, including World War II. 

     In light of its value as an educational resource, your Committee encourages the Museum to develop and implement factual and culturally sensitive projects and exhibits in the Museum.  The Museum is further encouraged to work with other local and state departments and agencies to integrate relevant factual information into the Museum's curricula to ensure the historical accuracy of its exhibits and programs.  Finally, your Committee encourages the Museum to incorporate local heroes and historical figures as part of the Museum's programs and activities, including its guest speakers list. 

     As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Tourism & Culture that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 2351 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to the Committee on Finance.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Tourism & Culture,

____________________________

RYAN I. YAMANE, Chair