HI HR217

Congratulates six winners of the Hawaii: Next 50 Contest: Kaia Fujinaka (Waiakea Elementary School), Brian Li (Punahou School), Cameryn Rae Kahalewai (Molokai High School), Aaron Omuro (Kahului Elementary School), Alena Bolosan (Ewa Makai Middle School), and Mary Brittany Bello (Waipahu High School).

Contest was inspired by former Governor George Ariyoshi's book "Hawaii: The Past Fifty Years, The Next Fifty Years" and asks students "What can we do to promote the healthy Hawaii we want to see in the next 50 years?"

Over 300 students from grades four through twelve submitted entries addressing topics including air pollution, invasive species, homelessness, affordable housing, and obesity prevention.

Sponsored by the Hawaii State House of Representatives, aio Foundation, Hawaii Pacific Health, Hawaii Medical Service Association, and Hawaii Pacific Health Institute.

Expresses deep appreciation to the winners for proposing creative solutions to current problems facing Hawaii and envisioning a path for the state's future.