Happy New Year!
As we begin a new year I would like to take some time to recap the benefits that we’re fortunate to have and forecast the upcoming activities being planned.
This year we’ll be afforded a State Tax Exemption of $5608 00 A huge benefit that was initiated by the MG Lee and the DoD staff; with assistance from Rep. K, Mark Takai and his staff, and professional organizations HNGEA and UNGA giving supporting testimony to the 2005 Legislature.
January 2008 was another milestone for the members as we initiated testimony for a State Vehicle Waiver for Guard and Reserve personnel residing in Hawaii. This was a very challenging event and postured for two vehicles but eventually settled on one vehicle A special thanks goes to MG Lee as he lead the way and fully supported the resurrection of the hearing along with Rep Takai The result was phenomenal considering the rising operational costs and the challenging times that we live in.
Bear in mind that benefits can be removed as easily implemented, we must continue to use these benefits responsibly, and maintain our value to our community and state that we live in Benefits are always a concern for our members and the HNGEA Committee on Legislation will continue to work with the DoD staff as well as Legislators throughout the calendar year.
Due to the challenging economic times the Tuition Assistance Program and Uniform Clothing Allowance will not be funded by the DoD but they will continue to seek a higher middle ground and be optimistic to future possibilities.
The 39th Annual Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States will be held inst Louis, MO from August 8 to 11,2010 It’s always an excellent venue to attend to meet and greet counterparts from across the country, participate and hear the latest from the CNGB, and attend and take part in breakout discussions that affect our entire Guard community. This year we look forward to hearing from Hawaii’s very own Command Chief Master Sergeant Denise Jelinski-Hall as she takes the role of Senior Enlisted Leader, NGB It is a proud moment in our history as the first Senior Enlisted Leader from Hawaii to grace the halls of the NOB.
This year the Committee on Nominations will conduct election of new officers I encourage everyone to get involved and support your Hawaii National Guard Enlisted Association.
Have a great New Year 2010!
