The Hawaiian Kids were back to being busy after a successful regional in their home state. On April 2, 2009, Team 359 was invited to take part in Science and Technology Day at the Hawaii state capital. This event was created in 2007 in support for Act 221, which provides a 100% tax credit against Hawaii State taxes, for equity investments in Qualified High Tech Companies (QHTB). An exhibit on Waialua Robotics, including Poi Pounder VIII (our 2008 Overdrive robot), was one the many being displayed at the capital, and team members spoke to all those present about the our robotics program and about FIRST. Despite economic hardship, Team 359 was honored to receive an additional $6,000 in sponsorships at the event to assist in funding our participation in the FIRST World Championships later this month where we will be vying for the Championship Chairman’s Award, in addition to robot competition. Other FIRST teams also present at Science and Technology Day were Team 2437 of Sacred Hearts Academy and Team 2443 of Maui High School.

To find out more about Act 221 visit: http://mauienterpriseforum.net/act221.htm