While we have worked with all three organizations on separate projects in the past, this new opportunity enables us to take advantage of the strengths of the combined partnership.

The cost overruns for the Big Dig look outrageous to us now ... but many big projects of the past have cost much more than the original estimates, ... (But) cities really don't have much choice. Americans have chosen to live in cities; we have no choice but to keep them livable. And despite the enormous headaches that Bostonians are experiencing now ... in 20 years they're going to be proud as hell, because they'll have the most beautiful and livable downtown in the country.

One of the most exciting projects we are initiating is a collaborative course development model which will allow many organizations to participate and benefit by working together. In addition, we are exploring mobile technologies, as well as other innovative ways to bring these resources to students. Education is changing and to be successful, we need to stay ahead of the technology.

With the Twickenham game coming up it's an ideal opportunity for us to get used to playing on a bigger pitch because it can make a huge difference.

We're now trying to get these fraternal organizations working together on major projects to benefit people.

There are many Native Hawaiians who are good to go, they're just waiting for the opportunity for the projects to come up. However there are many who have been on the list for years who need the help.