Daily Archives: October 28, 2008

Yesterday was the funeral for Robert “Bob” Shimoda, the last of my late grandpa Maurice Karamatsu’s closest friends.  Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say did the eulogy.  Speaker’s father-in-law, the late Stephen Kotake was a friend of my grandpa and Mr. Shimoda.  They called themselves “sangabarasu” or “three black birds” because they did everything together.  I will never forget Mr. Shimoda’s smile and his pleasant personality.  I am so glad I got to spend time with him.  He was a link to my grandparents and their generation.  A time when all the odds were against them such as racism and the glass ceiling, but they did their best as businessmen, but more importantly as friends.  I have no grandparents left, so anytime one of their friends pass away, I feel sad.  I will live life the best as I can, and help pave the way for the younger generations, and one day, I will join all my family and friends who passed away.  I am so honored to have known Mr. Shimoda.  Shimodasan, jya mata, goodbye until we meet again.

Aloha,

I want to thank all my constituents who have shared their thoughts, concerns, and well-wishes to me over the last several months.  After the anonymous illegal negative mailers against me, and the recent negative fliers against me that are being canvassed throughout the district, many of you have shared with me your kind words.  I just want you to know that your thoughts mean a lot to me. 

The past year has been one of the most challenging years in my career thus far.  I have learned so much as a person.  My life has had successes, but I have also made mistakes.  Many who want access to power have taken advantage of my mistake in life.  The negative attacks has definitely tested my will to be humble and compassionate.  I have become much stronger within myself.  No matter what I do in life, I want to be positive.  As always, I am going all-out in this election.  No matter what the outcome, I have no regrets and will live life to the fullest.  Thank you so much!

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

On Wednesday, October 22, 2008, I attended the Waikele Elementary School’s School Community Council meeting which I serve as a member.  After, I attended Waipahu Intermediate School’s Social Studies’ student and parent event.  They had a mock election that was very educational.

On Friday, October 17, 2008, I spoke to 3rd grade students at Waikele Elementary School in regards to climate change.  I talked about some of the problems we face and some of the solutions that we as individuals can do to help.  Also, I mentioned some of my legislation on renewable energy.  I handed out a workbook donated by HECO that teaches us how to save energy.  I really had a great time.