As a kid I used to watch Olelo and see these meetings and think they were boring.  Until
one day I saw an OHA meeting and after many passionate and emotional people came up to talk an actual fight broke out and it became must see tv.  Now as an adult I actually find the broadcast of these neighborhood board meetings very interesting.  I hear so much apathy and people playing victim of the government and larger forces so they don't vote or get involved. These board meetings are a way to start getting involved and make a difference.  I can also see how it can be a place for people to learn how to work with and in government and move on professionally.