Last Tuesday the Chamber celebrated its 158th Anniversary and the launch of the Chamber’s new year at its Annual Membership Luncheon. The meeting’s purpose is to introduce our new leadership, discuss the past year’s achievements and set the goals for the year ahead. It brings Chamber members together to celebrate the successes their support and active participation provided in making a difference and positive impact for Hawaii’s business community.
     Over 1,000 Chamber members and guests, including Hawaii legislators, government officials and military representatives, were in attendance. These are groups who are important to the Chamber’s efforts and the continued growth of Hawaii’s business community.
     What made this year’s gathering even more meaningful was the theme of the event, “We are all in this together.” As our economy continues to slow, gas prices rise along with airfare and food, and companies downsize, there are many challenges before us. But we must recognize that these challenges are impacting all of us. The Chamber believes that if we are to find solutions, it will take all of us working together to address these issues. Outgoing Chair Perry Confalone, Partner at Carlsmith Ball, reminded members of what they had already accomplished together this past year.
     As new Board Chair, Rick Blangiardi, President and General Manager of KGMB9, spoke of the Hawaii 3R’S program whose mission is to repair, remodel and restore our schools. He focused on how important the role of Hawaii’s business leaders is in assisting our public schools and to providing our children quality learning environments. He stressed that even as times get tougher we must focus on the programs that will insure Hawaii’s future.  Keynote speaker Senator Daniel Inouye also discussed challenges, such as our reliance on imported oil and the importance of finding alternatives. He also stated that focusing on more clean, renewable energy sources can help support Hawaii’s economy. He followed with the same sentiments encouraging not only businesses, but labor and management to work together towards resolutions.
     Each attendee was given a puzzle piece to remind them it takes every piece to create the full picture.  Each one of us plays a role in this community and in insuring Hawaii remains economically viable. Now, even more keeping Hawaii’s business leaders engaged, active and involved, is a Chamber priority. 
     Additionally, we are reaching out to others. We can’t do it alone as we truly are “all in this together.”  Currently the Chamber is meeting with other organizations to discuss ways Hawaii’s businesses can support possible solutions.  We will also be working with our community leaders, our legislators and military partners to use the resources we each have and combine our strengths. Stay tuned.