Daily Archives: March 5, 2007

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Journal Written Remarks – Day 24
March 1, 2007
House Bill 334, Relating to the Issuance of Special Purpose Revenue Bonds to Assist Sopogy Inc., in the Development of Renewable Energy

I rise in support.

This bill would authorize the issuance of special purpose revenue bonds in a total amount not to exceed $10,000,000 for the purpose of assisting Sopogy Inc. with the planning, designing, construction, equipping, and operating Sopogy Inc.'s solar farm power plant at the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority or at other suitable sites in Hawaii. Sopogy Inc. is a renewable energy company based in Hawaii that was spun-off of Hawaii's own Energy Industries. Its purpose is to bring renewable solar energy technologies to Hawaii and its people for the betterment of clean air, independence from imported fossil fuels, and energy stability. This local company is helping in our goal to diversify our economy and make our state more energy efficient.

Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Journal Written Remarks – Day 24 and Day 25
March 1 and 2, 2007
House Bill 345, Relating To Holidays

I rise in support.

I entered politics with hopes to make our state, nation, and world more peaceful. I believe we must all play a role in promoting peace. Too often, the cycle of violence is fueled through anger and revenge. Every generation has witnessed violence domestically and abroad. As a representative of Generation X, I am determined to continue striving for peace throughout the world just as the leaders before me.

I was pleased when I learned that the Hawaii Federation of Junior Young Buddhist Association was working on a peace resolution. After talking to their advisor, I decided to introduce a peace day bill on their behalf. I was touched to know that young leaders in the next generation, Generation Y had the same dream of attaining a more peaceful world.

House Bill 345 would establish September 21st of each year as “Peace Day” to promote peace programs, improve international relations, and increase educational awareness of peace. If we all work towards this goal of a more peaceful world, we will see priceless results and touch many lives.

Thank you.