Governor Lingle's trip to China has focused on building on the State's strategic efforts to strengthen Hawai`i's economic base by tapping China's growing outbound tourism market as well as developing opportunities and partnerships in clean energy and international trade.

Governor Lingle released $75 million to the Department of Education for capital improvements at public schools statewide. The funds were appropriated by the Legislature this past legislative session for building and campus facility improvements, repairs and maintenance at Hawai`i public schools.

Waiakea High School student robotics participants are developing relationships with students from fifteen nations around the globe at the Ritsumekian Senior High School "Rits Super Science Fair 2009." With science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at the core of this gathering, the fair provides Hawai`i students with an opportunity to share knowledge while building ties to other countries.

Governor Lingle announced the state is making significant progress in the development of an undersea cable that would connect the islands into one electrical grid, allowing the integration of wind power generated in Maui County to be transmitted to O`ahu. This milestone comes one year after a comprehensive energy agreement was signed between the State of Hawai`i and Hawaiian Electric companies to move the state away from its dependence on fossil fuels for electricity and ground transportation.

Governor Lingle recognized individuals and organizations who work to make life better for Hawai`i's children during a luncheon at Washington Place. "It is important to pause and recognize those who go above and beyond, especially in times that are so challenging as these, to recognize people who, even in tough times, found a way to help others," Governor Lingle said.

Governor Lingle will travel to China to build on the State's strategic efforts to strengthen Hawai`i's economic base by tapping China's growing outbound tourism market as well as developing opportunities and partnerships in clean energy and international trade.