Bill Fernandez and Laureen Kim attended the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement Conference in Honolulu on August 31 to September 3, 2004.

From exciting workshops to dynamic speakers, the 3rd annual conference provided a good overview of where the Hawaiian community can advance in the years ahead. By providing examples of successful programs, help with grants and other funding sources, and connection with Native American and Alaskan Native groups, the conference was inspirational.

Our own Bill Fernandez spoke about "Connecting to the Mainland 'Ohana." Bill presented the case that Native Hawaiians on the mainland continue to be members of the overall Hawaiian community. Our voices, energies, and power should not be overlooked or feared, as our perspectives can help raise the Hawaiian nation.