1. Won my fourth election to Hawaii State House of Representatives and saw U.S. Senator Barack Obama become President of the United States on November 4, 2008.
2. My great uncle Roy Okubo, my grandma Bessie Karamatsu’s younger brother who served in the 522nd Artillery of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. He passed away on December 2, 2008.
3. My last conversation with Rep. Bob Nakasone before the elections. He passed away on December 7, 2008.
4. Bob Shimoda, a friend of my late grandpa Maurice Karamatsu who was active with Jodo Shu and Kotake Shokai. He passed away on October 19, 2008.
5. Released my strategy for compassion and peace on 08/08/08.
6. Several of my bills became law in the Spring and Summer of 2008: Criminal impersonation, bonds for a solar renewable energy plant, and requiring a tow truck to release your vehicle if you arrive at the scene before they move it.
7. Being surprised with an award, the “2008 Champion of Small Business” from the National Coalition for Capital at the National Conference of State Legislatures held in New Orleans from July 22 to 27, 2008.
8. Finished the Honolulu Marathon with my sisters Mia and Lara on December 14, 2008.
9. Going to Okinawa with family in October 2008.
10. Finding the strength to be at peace within myself despite the attacks from so many people such as the Republicans, dissident Democrats, media, individuals who don’t know me, and political opponents running against me. My mistake revealed everything to me.
JON RIKI KARAMATSU 
Good for you for taking the moral high ground and for advocating (and living) peace and compassion.
With the relentless personal attacks common in politics, I’m impressed with your willingness to take the high road.
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