STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1993

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: GOV. MSG. NO. 591

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Second State Legislature

Regular Session of 2023

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts, to which was referred Governor's Message No. 591, submitting for study and consideration the nomination of:

King Kamehameha Celebration Commission

G.M. No. 591

LEINAALA LOPEZ, for a term to expire 06-30-2024,

begs leave to report as follows:

Your Committee reviewed the personal history, resume, and statement submitted by Leinaala Lopez for service on the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission.

Your Committee received testimony in support of the nomination for the appointment of Leinaala Lopez from Hoomohala O Molokai Foundation and seven individuals.

Upon review of the testimony, your Committee finds that Ms. Lopez's experience and knowledge qualify her for appointment to the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission. Ms. Lopez is a lifelong resident of Molokai, where her family has contributed to Molokai's culture through mele (song), hula, lei making, and traditional art. Your Committee notes that Ms. Lopez is an active member of her community, incorporating her knowledge and skills in various forms of Hawaiian culture to perpetuate and preserve traditional cultural arts. Ms. Lopez assisted with the Molokai Kamehameha Day Gala, Parade, and Hoolaulea in 2022 as part of Molokai's King Kamehameha Day Celebrations. Your Committee further finds that Ms. Lopez understands the role and responsibilities of board members and her knowledge of Hawaiian cultural arts will enhance the effectiveness of the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission. Your Committee therefore recommends that Leinaala Lopez be appointed to the King Kamehameha Celebration Commission based on her experience, knowledge, and commitment to public service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts that is attached to this report, your Committee, after full consideration of the background, experience, and qualifications of the nominee, has found the nominee to be qualified for the position to which nominated and recommends that the Senate advise and consent to the nomination.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Transportation and Culture and the Arts,

____________________________

CHRIS LEE, Chair