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Below is my testimony before the House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce regarding Niihau Shell Products:

Testimony of
Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
on
H.B. 2569
Relating to Niihau Shell Products
Monday, February 9, 2004
3:00 p.m.
Conference Room 325

Good afternoon Chair Hiraki, Vice Chair Herkes, and members of the committee.

I am Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu, and I am testifying in favor of H.B. 2569, which prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State. I dream of seeing Hawaii as a global economic power with a strong and diversified economy. However, as we are moving ahead in solidifying our tourism and military industries, and promoting our knowledge based industries such as technology and science, we must include our native Hawaiians to be a part of this historical movement. This bill takes a small step towards that direction.

Specifically, H.B. 2569 would protect the Native Hawaiian Niihau shell product businesses on Niihau from other businesses using the term “Niihau” on their products when in fact their products (1) do not comprise of seashells harvested from the island of Niihau, its waters, or beaches and (2) are not fabricated, processed, or manufactured entirely within the State. In addition, this bill allows discussion on a percentage measure for non 100% Niihau shell products to be permitted to use the term “Niihau” and be labeled with a percentage component.

The Native Hawaiian Niihau shell product businesses on Niihau are known for their craftsmanship and choice of pristine shells. The policy behind this measure is to protect Hawaii businesses, especially native Hawaiian businesses from being taken advantage of by companies capitalizing on the term “Niihau” just as the term “Kona” was for coffee. After all, customers pay hundreds, even thousands of dollars for Niihau shell products. Hawaiian cultural products are becoming more and more popular in the global economy as Hawaii in itself is a brand name. Besides retail businesses, with e-commerce businesses on the Internet, the potential for abuse is even greater, if it has not already occurred.

Therefore, I support H.B. 2569 to help protect our Hawaii businesses, especially those owned by our Native Hawaiian brothers and sisters. Thank you Chair Hiraki, Vice Chair Herkes, and members of the committee for allowing me to testify.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu
State Representative, District 41

Late last year, a person told me, “Man, Jon Riki, you’ve done so much in a short time.” In my opinion, I haven’t done much yet. I cram as much work as I can because at times, I feel as if I am working against time. I have no idea when my last day in public office will be or when I will die. I know that death could be around the corner, so I live life to the fullest. I am determined to leave something meaningful for future generations before my time comes.

I love my family. I love my friends. I love Hawaii.

2003 bills are still alive for the 2004 legislative session if it was not held in committee. Some of the policy behind my bills were achieved quietly. For example, two out of three of my capital improvement projects were included in the 2003 state budget. My crystal methamphetamine prevention bill was included in a catch-all bill being addressed this year. Finally, a couple of my bills are being achieved administratively. The following are some of my 2003 bills:

House Bill 678 would establish the Hawaii Employer Mutual Health Insurance Company to provide health insurance to Hawaii employers. My intent was to have a company that would help smaller businesses (i.e. “mom and pop” stores) and entrepreneurs in their health coverage for their employees.

House Bill 679 would require the department of transportation to establish standards for the placement of school zone traffic signals, signage, and crosswalks, on public roads, to help ensure the safety of students, parents, and school personnel.

House Bill 680, House Draft 1 would require mandatory ethics training for legislators, elected members of the board of education, governor, lieutenant governor, executive department heads and deputies, and trustees of the office of Hawaiian affairs.

House Bill 682, House Draft 1 would appropriate funds for the Department of Health to work in cooperation with the Department of Education to prevent crystal methamphetamine use. There needs to be greater education on the danger of drugs to help prevent future drug users.

House Bill 683 would give students enrolled in University of Hawaii (UH) film courses reasonable access to the Diamond Head film studio. I was hoping to get UH film students some hands-on job experience in the film industry. Fortunately, UH and Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism will be working towards this goal administratively.

House Bill 684 would provide a tax credit for the purchase of motion picture and film, and television production and post-production equipment.

House Bill 686 would provide tax credits to small high technology companies that increases the amount of their employees. I created this bill to help push the growth of our technology industry and create jobs. I want Hawaii’s young adults to have a technology career here if they choose rather than looking towards the mainland as their only option.

House Bill 687 would require the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) to include performance goals, monitoring requirements, and measures of effectiveness in each contract in which public funds are expended for tourism marketing or promotion. It would require HTA to provide an annual report. Ironically, not too long after I introduced this bill, a state audit revealed mismanagement by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) on contracts they had with HTA. As a result, HTA took away all international marketing contracts from HVCB, leaving them with only a marketing contract for North America.

House Bill 690 would require the Hawaii Tourism Authority to allocate a portion of its biennial budget to contract with the Hawaii Technology Trade Association to market and promote high technology industries in Hawaii. My intent was to diversify Hawaii’s marketing strategy. This bill would promote Hawaii as “business friendly” and bring more investment monies into our State.

House Bill 689 would provide matching funds up to $75,000 for the plantation village programs through the Friends of Waipahu Cultural Garden Park. I supported the park because the rich history of Hawaii’s plantation life must be retained for future generations to see.

House Bill 691: In a contract for a public works project, a joint venture of two or more contractors shall qualify for the preference in this section if all joint venture contractors meet the requirements: a state agency shall award the contract to an offeror who has filed all state tax returns due to the State and paid all amounts owing on such returns for two successive years prior to submitting the offer; provided that the amount of that offer is not more than seven per cent higher than the amount offered by any competing contractor who has not filed or paid all applicable state taxes, and the amount of the offer by the state tax paying offeror is $5,000,000 or less. The policy behind this measure is to allow smaller companies to join together in the bidding process so they will be able to compete against larger companies.

Each Representative can introduce up to ten bills for the 2004 Legislative Session. Chairs and leadership can introduce much more. The following are some of the bills I introduced this session:

House Bill 2571 authorizes the formation of a purchasing pool for small employers to purchase health care insurance to meet the requirements of the prepaid health care law. I created this bill to help entrepreneurs and small businesses get reasonable health insurance rates for their employees.

House Bill 2573 allows the Director of Finance to invest up to 10% of state short-term investment moneys in linked investments. Moneys invested in financial institutions would be made available as a loan to an eligible borrower who is an entrepreneur in the State. A cap on loans will be set. The lending institution will pay an interest rate to the State for the certificate of deposit of not more than two percent below the current market rates.

House Bill 2568 requires the Department of Education to establish the Academy of Hawaii for gifted and talented students in order to develop the potential of students who have demonstrated superior achievement through the provision of appropriate educational opportunities, to be located on the University of Hawaii -–West Oahu campus. As we are attracting investments and companies in the knowledge-based industries, we need to prepare our students to be active participants in this historical movement.

House Bill 2569 prohibits items made of seashells from being labeled “Niihau” if not 100% made of Niihau shells and made within the State. Allows items made with at least a to-be-named percentage, but less than 100% of Niihau shells to be labeled as to percentage content. My intent is to protect the brand “Niihau shells” from money-makers using inferior shells and lei-making. Further, this bill will keep the market value high and protect the native Hawaiians in this industry.

House Bill 2570 provides a bonus for public school teachers if state revenues exceed an unspecified amount.

House Bill 2572 establishes the Tourism Diversification and Economic Development Committee to review and prioritize existing tourism diversification and economic development initiatives and facilitate the implementation of initiatives deemed most promising.

House Bill 2781 exempts the Hawaii convention center from the freedom of information law for the Hawaii convention center if compliance would result in a license agreement not being executed by a licensee requesting nondisclosure. The reasoning behind this bill is that companies may want to hold conventions without having to release private information that could endanger their trade secrets.

House Bill 2574 funds an Emergency Rear Exit for Kaleiopuu Elementary School and the Reinforcement of Building G at Honowai Elementary School.

House Bill 2781 exempts booking business records of the Hawaii Convention Center from the freedom on information law. The purpose is to protect a potential licensee’s confidential business information or proprietary information. This measure will encourage more conventions, especially business conventions and further promote Hawaii as being business friendly.

House Bill 2575 makes an appropriation for the continuation and expansion of the project east (environmental and spatial technology) initiative in Hawaii’s public schools.

House Resolution 85 and House Concurrent Resolution 126 requests the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women to maintain and utilize the self-sufficiency standard, where feasible.

House Concurrent Resolution 127 Requests the Department of Accounting and General Services to conduct a study comparing the cost of a new stadium with the cost of maintaining Aloha Stadium.

If you would like to express your support or disagreement with a bill through testimony, please call our office at 586-8490, or e-mail me at repkaramatsu@capitol.hawaii.gov. My staff will track the bill for you and keep you informed when it is scheduled for a public hearing before a legislative committee. Mahalo!

In life, we meet people from all walks of life. In my role as a politician, I am very grateful to have the opportunity to meet so many people with various backgrounds.

I try to understand people's lives as best as I can. I try to imagine being in their shoes and look deeper into who the individual is and what their surroundings are like. Everyone has a story, and if you analyze it, you will see the humanity of life.

The first Flemming Fellows Retreat was held at St. Petersburg, Florida from January 2-5, 2004. We negotiated a new constitution for a new state, prioritized our core values, and implemented our core values in our budget. We learned about various cultural values and stereotypes. One course was about framing the message depending on your audience. We broke into groups and made a smart growth plan and each group presented their plan to a different audience: legislators, business, media, and tax foundation. We also learned about ethics and the fine line between doing what you feel is right and what is legally wrong, after all, ethics can change through policy. I had a great time and made many new friends from across the country.

-2002-
2002 was a year of big changes for me and some of my close friends in our group called “Pineapple Pack”: (1) I entered elected state politics; (2) Stacey Hayashi began her e-commerce, digital media, and film companies; (3) Gene Nishihira got promoted to underwriter officer in Title Guaranty; (4) Owen Iida and Ryan Sanada got into respectable law firms; and (5) Spencer Yasui began to work in the hotel industry, leaving the retail arena.

-2003-
I was told by a friend of mine that 2003 would be a year of “small battles”: (1) I began my e-commerce company following the lead of entrepreneurs Stacey Hayashi and Scott Murakami; (2) Stacey Hayashi began manufacturing her own clothing; (3) Owen Iida left practicing law to embark on a new magazine called “Hawaii Next” (an idea he got when he was rooming at my townhouse); (4) Grant Karamatsu was hired as manager for Norwegian Cruise Lines; (5) Kendall Matsuyoshi got his real estate license; (6) Brandon Mitsuda went back to college to study counseling, and is currently working for Honolulu City Council Chair Donovan Dela Cruz and Owen Iida’s magazine “Hawaii Next.”

-2004-
I predict 2004 will be a year of huge challenges. The Pineapple Pack will continue to work hard as productive citizens of Hawaii and our country. I am going to work really hard to keep pushing for a diversified economy for Hawaii. I will continue to help those who face challenges of abuse and violence. At the same time I will do my best to improve my e-commerce company to continue bringing in revenue to Hawaii from out-of-state. In 2004, I will also be up for re-election for the State House and I will go all-out with my platform for a better Hawaii.

I wish the people of Hawaii the best. Work hard and enjoy life!

I was fortunate to be one of thirty politicians across the country to be selected to the Center For Policy Alternatives' Flemming Fellows 2004 Class.

The Flemming Fellows Leadership Institute was created in 1994 thanks to a generous grant from the W.K. Kellog Foundation. The institute identifies emerging leaders from the ranks of the nation's state legislators and provides them with a unique program of values-based leadership training and sustaining support. I will be attending two Flemming Fellows retreats in 2004. The first one will be from January 2-5, 2004 at St. Petersburg, Florida. The second retreat will be in Maryland in the middle of 2004.

I was really honored to be one of forty politicians selected from thirteen states to the Council of State Governments-West's Western Legislative Academy 2003 Class from October 14-17, 2003 at Colorado Springs, Colorado.

CSG-West began the Western Legislative Academy to build stronger Western Legislative institutions and more effective legislators. The institution's focus is to strengthen the professional and personal development skills of effective lawmaking. The Western Legislative Academy supports the legislative institution and gives legislators the opportunity to learn from their colleagues in other Western states.

Several months ago, I brought up a philosophical discussion with some of my friends. We discussed the difference between “Dying to Live” versus “Living to Die.”

I believe if one is dying to live, there are things that are obstructing one’s hope to live happily. Whereas, when one is living to die, one is making the most of life and if one is to die, there would be no regrets because he or she lived life to the fullest. I tell my mom that I push myself hard in my personal goals, and in my dreams for Hawaii and our country because if I die tomorrow, I would leave a positive impact on a good number of people.

I always remind my friends to always work hard, have fun, make an impact in your community, and love your loved ones.

I often say Governor John A. Burns is my hero. He has impacted Hawaii in his many roles as Police Chief, Small businessman, Delegate to Congress, and Governor of Hawaii. His push for social justice and statehood for Hawaii will forever be remembered. I memorized this quote from Burns, a devout catholic, stated after he allowed pro-choice to pass in Hawaii without his signature, “Whereas the Pope works in black and white, a politician must work in shades of gray.”

Tupac Amaru Shakur, in my opinion, is one of the artists that had a political and social conscious. His talent shined in his music, movies, and poetry. In the mid-90s, his music helped me to cope with some of my struggles. I stayed strong in my goal to be a politician.

He said that the Vietnam War would have lasted longer had it not been for the media reporting all the horrors of war. Likewise, through his music, he was reporting the horrors happening in the United States. In his songs, he mentions rape, young girls getting pregnant, drugs, violence, broken families, death, prostitution, and spending millions of dollars for wars while our own people are suffering.

Tupac stated, “I am not saying that I am going to change the world, but I guarantee I will spark the brain that will change the world.”

My grandfather Maurice Karamatsu passed away in 1992 before I graduated from Pearl City High School. At the time, I was doing some theater with Honolulu Theatre For Youth’s Young at Art. The last words I remember from him was, “Study hard, go to college, and one day Hollywood will beckon you.” My grandpa was always a believer of “anything is possible if you work hard.”

Granpda Karamatsu’s first job I believe was as a driver for Dillingham. Then he was a messenger boy for Hawaiian Airlines and rose up the ranks to management. He was recognized and asked to help start a small store in Waikiki, Duty Free Shoppers Hawaii (DFS). This store grew to be a big multinational company. He retired as Vice President of DFS.

Besides business, my grandfather was active in politics. He worked with senior politicians of the past such as Governor George Ariyoshi, Senator Nadao Yoshinaga and Representative Jack Suwa as well as from the next generation, Governor Ben Cayetano, Senate President Norman Mizuguchi and Speaker Calvin Say. He was friends with legendary attorney Wally Fujiyama (Attorney for DFS, University of Hawaii Regent) who was also active in Hawaii politics, and from what I heard, they often visited the state capitol.

After Grandpa Karamatsu died, the first job I had was working for DFS in its warehouse in the summer of 1992, punching price tags all day. Later in the summer of 1992, I worked in the Flightline division of DFS until the spring of 1996. I started a business this year and ironically, it is located next to DFS’ warehouse and headquarters where I used to work. My grandfather took a chance in the duty free arena where international travelers could buy merchandise tax free, a unique way of doing global business through international travel. Whereas, I have ventured into the e-commerce arena where internet stores lie in virtual reality and the world is your market.

As an elected official, I have met many political and business leaders who knew my grandpa. Senator Nadao Yoshinaga is now my mentor. Another mentor, Senator Carol Fukunaga also knew him. I got to know Colbert Matsumoto, CEO of Island Insurance, who was a young attorney for Wally Fujiyama when he met my grandpa. Wally Fujiyama’s grandson, Jon Fujiyama is now a friend of mine and a strong supporter. Speaker Calvin Say serves as a great teacher for me in the House of Representatives. He became friends with my grandpa because his father-in-law, Mr. Kotake was good friends with my grandpa.

These are just a number of coincidences that have happened recently. I believe Grandpa Karamatsu is still here guiding me in business and politics.

In 1997, at the age of 22, I wrote this poem because of the dramatic things my friends and I went through. At that time, I knew girls who survived rape and abuse. My best friend was almost shot by a person with road rage. I myself was being hunted down by a crazy person and his friends because he was upset I dated his ex-girlfriend who I no longer was dating since 1995. This person finally stopped trying to attack me after I took him to court in 1999 where he received a misdemeanor conviction. The girl I was seeing at the time was almost raped at her own graduation party set up by her friends in a hotel in Waikiki. I remember her running upstairs to me. I took her away from the room and headed downstairs to call the police but she would not let me because she didn’t want to make a commotion. Rather, she cried in my arms.

I directed a lot of my energy towards my studies and public service. Instead of just focusing on myself, I focused on others. I really felt that politics was a way to make positive changes in the world. I had an unbelievable drive to enter politics. In fact, starting in 1996, I was already planning for my 2002 run for political office.

EASE THE PAIN

There is no word
Which describes my anger at the evils of the world
I don’t understand the reason
Why people hurt other people?
I wish I had the power
To ease the pain of others

The problems will never cease
My goal is to see it does
Only together we have the power
To ease the pain of others

People will say I am a dreamer
I don’t care
I won’t stop
I’ll make them a believer

— Jon Riki Karamatsu 1997 —

This is a poem I created in the Fall of 1997 at the age of 22 while I was attending the University of Hawaii at Manoa. At the time, I was Student Body Vice President. I made a number of poems that fall because of a literary course I was taking. Much of my political drive in my early years was due to the pain suffered by people I knew. Although much of my current legislation is in the economic development arena, I still have a strong passion for women and children issues.

PLEASE SWEETIE DON’T CRY

Hiding in the corner, a little girl cries
Clinging to a teddy bear
She feels lost
Just yearning for someone who cares

Hurt by those she trusts
She keeps the pain inside
What she knows, she won’t tell
Please sweetie don’t cry

I wish I could fly
I would put her in my arms and carry her to the sky
Above the highest mountains
I’d show her the beauty from up high

Little girl wherever you are
I pray for you
May you find joy and live a full life
All alone in the corner at age five
Please sweetie don’t cry

-Jon Riki Karamatsu 1997-

This year has been a very challenging year for me thus far. Not only was this my first year in state elected politics, but I also began my first business following the lead of entrepreneurs Stacey Hayashi and Scott Murakami. I incorporated JRK Enterprises LLC and began an e-commerce business. I sell Hawaiian themed products for the home as well as some Hawaiian clothing on the internet. Much of my transactions are with mainland U.S. customers, therefore, I am exporting many local products and playing a small role in bringing revenue into Hawaii.

In July, I attended the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) in San Francisco. There were workshops on many issues, numerous speeches and social gatherings.

I was very impressed with a presentation on DNA testing for criminals. He is planning to get Hawaii more involved in this program, which would be very beneficial in stopping sexual assault offenders. At this time, Hawaii is not nationally accredited so much work is needed.

Following NCSL, I attended the Council on State Governments-West (CSG West) annual conference, which was held here in Honolulu, Hawaii. I enjoyed the communications workshop where I learned differences in communication between men and women and how personalities play a role in communication.

Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say asked me to attend a Child Support Symposium held by NCSL at Vail Colorado from September 10-14, 2003. In addition, the CSG-West organization selected me to attend their Western Legislative Academy (WLA) at Colorado Springs, Colorado in October 2003. This is an intense leadership training conference. Only 40-something state politicians across the western United States are chosen for this selective conference.

The Senate and House Tourism committees have been having informational briefings regarding the way the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau (HVCB) has been managing itself and spending state monies. The next briefing will be Friday, July 18, 2003. In addition, the Governor is being investigated for arranging a state paid trip for a KITV News crew to report on the Governor in Japan. The following are some of the issues being discussed:

1. HVCB's violation of generally accepted accounting principles to circumvent contract limitations.
2. HVCB's state-funded personnel expenditures dramatically increased over the past three years despite level state contract funding.
3. HVCB employees received exorbitant state-funded bonuses and unnecessary severance packages.
4. HVCB's Honolulu corporate office approved a plethora of inappropriate state-funded expenditures.
5. The salary structure for a Japan office executive creates a potential conflict of interest.
6. The process by which subcontractors are procured, monitored, and evaluated is inconsistent.
7. Some subcontractors were procured to perform state-funded services beyond the scope of the bureau's leisure contract.
8. Conflict of interest in HVCB rewarding a former HVCB vice president's company a state-funded contract.
9. Legal services provided by a state-funded subcontractor (law firm) sought to undermine state interests.
10. HVCB contract files are disorganized and incomplete.
11. The Hawaii Tourism Authority failed to monitor and enforce its marketing contracts with the bureau.

Last Friday, the Senate and House Tourism committees met to discuss the State Auditor's report regarding the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB). The report mentioned that HVCB was mismanaging state funds. In addition, the committee discussed the Governor's responsibility in using state funds to pay for a trip for a KITV news team to cover the Governor in Japan.

On Tuesday, July 8, 2003, the Legislature went into special session to override six of the Governor's fifty vetoes. The Democratic legislators restored cuts to programs affecting the elderly, poor, and abused.

I believe that if help is not provided for certain vulnerable members in the community, problems will compound and government costs will increase. For example, statistics show that sexually abused survivors have a higher probability of using drugs than the general population.

I have supported safety and survivors of abuse since my days as student body Vice President at the University of Hawaii at Manoa where I pushed for safety on campus and served on the Sexual Harassment Policy Committee. My friends who survived sexual assault and abuse motivated me to take action on these issues. During my period as a college student leader, an acquaintance who claimed to have psychic powers told me, “When you become a politician, never forget why you entered politics.” I have not forgotten.

Last week Saturday, I attended the First Anniversary of the Filipino Community Center and presented a certificate on behalf of the House of Representatives to Executive Director Luella Costales.

In addition, I circulated a petition in support of capital improvement projects for Waipahu schools that may not have funds released by the Governor. Channel 9 News followed me as I collected signatures.

I presented certificates and letters to Honowai Elementary School's student leaders. After, I talked with teachers and students. In addition, I took another look around the school's library to see the current situation.

I had a meeting with police officers at the Pearl City Police Station to discuss some safety and nuisance concerns in Waipahu. I explained some of my residents' concerns and the officers explained that they will especially keep an eye on those areas mentioned. In addition, I am working hard with the police to eliminate some of the drug problems in the community.

I presented letters and certificates for student leaders at Waipahu Intermediate School. The presentation was done on-camera to be broadcasted school-wide. I ate lunch with the students and conversed with them. I am especially proud of the work done by the student peer educators who help their classmates by educating them on issues such as drugs and teen pregnancy.

I recently came back from the bill signing for the Ko Olina Tax Credit, which was held at the Ko Olina Resort. Fortunately, our office got some of the House and Senate members who supported the bill to be there. Many of the Democratic legislators only found out last night because they were not invited or there might have been some miscommunication by the Governor.

I believe information should be shared with everyone regardless if they are proponents or opponents. Our office updates interested persons on measures, scheduling, process, amendments, etc.

In the beginning of the 2003 Legislative Session, my office put together some very helpful information and contact data. As a result, I was recognized by a “good government” organization called the Hawaii Pro-Democracy Initiative for good deeds.

I shared this information with Governor Linda Lingle at the beginning of the 2003 legislative session as I had high hopes for her. I remember excitedly going upstairs to the Governor's office to make an appointment so I could give her the information to help her get familiar with the Legislature. The secretary told me, they won't schedule me in person but rather, fax them my request for an appointment. I left the information and told the secretary that it is just something small to help the Governor as she settles in with her new job.

A couple of days ago, I announced the Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) I worked on that made it into the Hawaii State budget bill. Waikele Elementary School and Honowai Elementary School are two of the three schools in his district that got CIP appropriations. To meet the community's growing needs, Waikele Elementary School wants an extended parking lot where parents can safely pick up and dropp off their kids. Honowai Elementary School has been waiting for fiteen years to get their library air-conditioned. The dust has been a threat to books and materials and the heat has affected learning in the facility.

Yesterday, KGMB 9 News covered my announcement regarding Honowai Elementary School's concerns. The media mentioned that Honowai Elementary School's CIP for air-conditioning was not on the Department of Education's (DOE) priority list and that the Governor hinted she may line-item veto projects not on the list. However, members of the schools stressed the importance of having air-conditioning to protect books and give students a better learning environment due to the hot nature of the Waipahu-Ewa plains.

I am working on some measures I hope to introduce for next year's legislative session. Many of the measures deal with economic development. I am trying to come up with as many ideas as I can to help diversify our economy, create jobs and bring in investments. When the bills are ready, I will anounce them.

I hosted some judges from Tianjin, China and had a nice talk with them in my office I showed them the Hawaii State House of Representatives chamber before escorting them to the Hawaii Supreme Court to meet Chief Justice Ronald T.Y. Moon.

This past couple of weeks I have been visiting the schools in my district to touch basis, and present letters and certificates to all the outgoing and incoming student leaders.

At Waikele Elementary School, I presented certificates and letters at their student government meeting room. A couple of the students remembered me speaking to them in the “Young CEO” program, which encourages kids to be entrepreneurial. The student leaders gave me a group picture of them with all their signatures. I proudly display the picture in my office.

Kaleiopu'u Elementary School gave me the opportunity to present certificates to their student leaders in their morning assembly, which was videotaped and broadcasted live throughout the entire school. After, I had a really good talk with the student leaders.

This evening, Rep. Karamatsu presented certificates and letters to the student leaders at Waipahu High School that was held at the Pearl City High School auditorium. “Their enthusiasm and energy was really satisfying to see,” mentioned Rep. Karamatsu. He continued, “They are truly up and coming leaders.”

I organized Waipahu’s first town meeting held by its legislators. The topic was “Legislative Wrap-Up.” The meeting was held yesterday, Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at the Waipahu Intermediate School Cafeteria from 7:00 to 8:30 P.M.

The legislators participating were Senators Cal Kawamoto, Brian Kanno, and Willie Espero, and Representatives Alex Sonson, Tulsi Gabbard Tamayo, and Jon Riki Karamatsu. I moderated the meeting and had each legislator give a summary of what happened this past legislative session. We covered a wide range of issues and finished the last half hour of the meeting with questions and answers.

At the town meeting, Waipahu Intermediate School’s social studies teacher brought a display of the students work regarding history. They are raising money to help some of their students attend “History Day” in Washington D.C.

The event was enjoyable. Approximately fifty people attended that night.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech on House Bill 200, H.D. 1, S.D. 1, C.D. 1
April 29, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

The challenge of balancing the budget this Legislative Session was enormous. Last year the Governor made promises to not raise taxes, lay off workers, and take monies from the Hurricane Fund. This took off all the options from the table for discussion because anyone who disagreed with her would be called an obstructionist in one of her many press releases against the legislature. Moreover, the Council of Revenues projections looked grim.

The House was eager to work with her. However, in the House Committee on Finance, the Administration was late making many deadlines regarding their proposed budget, which made it difficult for the committee to move forward since time was of the essence. When the Administration's proposed budget was finally presented by the Department of Budget and Finance, there was to be a five percent cut across the board for all departments. However, Education and Higher Education ended up taking most of the cuts, much higher than five percent.

The House and Senate came together and worked out their differences and came up with a balanced budget. The House and Senate placed education as a top priority by restoring the Governor's cuts in education. In addition, taxes were not raised, people were not laid off, and the Hurricane Fund was not tapped. Given the circumstances, balancing the budget was an accomplishment.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech on Senate Bill 377, S.D. 1, H.D. 2., C.D. 1
Thursday, May 1, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

Looking at the big picture, this Ko Olina Resort tax credit and our hotel construction and remodeling tax credit will help modernize our tourism industry to be competitive as a global destination.

While we are encouraging the diversification of our economy through Act 221, which encourages the development of our knowledge-based industries, we must not neglect our number one industry, tourism. We must do what we can to maintain our tourism industry so we can bring past visitors and future visitors to come.

Thank you Mr Speaker.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech on House Bill 1400, H.D. 1, S.D. 2, C.D. 1
Thursday, May 1, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support.

The hotel construction and remodeling tax credit in this bill will help stimulate our economy by bringing in new investment and improvements critical to the visitor industry. Specifically, in Waikiki, this bill will help revitalize old and worn hotels and make Waikiki a modern, state of the art location to visit. By upgrading and diversifying our product, construction jobs will be provided and visitors will be given new reasons to visit Hawaii.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

All tax increase bills are no longer moving except one, the long-term care tax credit. I voted “no” on this measure because I believe such a tax increase will be difficult on our fragile economy.

The Finance and Ways and Means Committees restored much of the education and higher education cuts proposed by the Administration. In addition, the Administration tried to “gut” Act 221. The House has defended Act 221 because it is an investment to build knowledge-based industries in Hawaii.

Honolulu Weekly Interview on Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
By Ryan Senaga
April 23, 2003
http://www.honoluluweekly.com/

Q&A

Ryan Senaga

On a late April evening, after the final decking for nonfiscal bills, Waipahu-Waikele state Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu still sat in his office, graciously signing last-minute bills and unwinding after a grueling finance meeting with a few fellow legislators.

Elected last November, Karamatsu, 27, is one of the youngest — and youngest-looking — lawmakers in the Legislature. For a man whose lifelong ambition has been to serve in public office, the UH/Gonzaga law school grad’s first season of law-making has been the beginning of a dream come true.

So how was your first legislative session?
It’s going pretty good. I’ve learned a lot. I knew what I was getting into, working as staff before and also working in the [Democratic] party. But what I realized was that working with people is critical, and relationships mean a lot in this business. I mean, you gotta have ideas, you gotta have drive, but at the same time, you need those people skills in order to get things done.

How was working with the new governor?
She put us down on the budget, about us not taking a stand. When you think about it, we did take a stand. She cut education and higher education, and those are the biggest cuts. There was supposed to be a 5 percent reduction across the board, but education cuts doubled that. Almost tripled it. People were surprised. I got calls about why the governor is cutting education, charter schools. …

When she went to the Mainland, on CNN, the reporter asked if she balanced the budget by cutting education and she said, “No, we were just cutting the additional appro-priation by Governor Cayetano,” which is not true. There was a base cut, higher than a 5 percent reduction. So what we did was restore it and put education as a priority. Without higher education being fully funded, really, how are you gonna try and diversify the economy?

She wants to knock Act 221. She says we’re not being fiscally responsible, but Act 221 gives such an attractive package. It attracts talent and investments into industries that are not solid in Hawai‘i. It is not fiscally solid, where it will put in revenue, but things are starting to happen. Companies are starting to form. Investments that would not be here but for Act 221, are here. These are things that the governor spins in a different light. Act 221 will bring in more than we’ll lose.

Was your first session everything you expected?
There were a lot of pleasant surprises. I was nervous at first, but I realized what was important for senior members is respect of history. Our age difference is huge. Some of these guys are in their 60s, even 70s … 80s — Helene Hale. But when we talk about “Oh wow, I remember when you guys did this,” it kinda opens your eyes. Even though we didn’t suffer the suffering that they’ve suffered, at least we try to understand it.

What were your disappointments?
I won’t name anybody, but things change quickly in this building. Issues can cause emotions, and things can flip super-quickly. And some people will jump to another side, based on the issue. As long as you don’t take it personally, you’ll be okay. Once you take it personally, it can kinda drain you emotionally.

With your law degree, are you ever planning to work full time?
I’m so focused on this job, and I want to do it well; but once I feel comfortable with the process, I think I’ll be open to a law firm part-time. But it’s really tough because the hours will interfere with my time to do legislation and go to community things. It does take a toll on your life.

Can you envision yourself being a politician for the rest of your life?
It’s hard to see that far. I think it depends how much of a toll it takes. Things can change, like, say, if I got married and had kids and stuff. During session, I really don’t go home too much. I sleep over here now.

Because you look young, do you get ripped on a lot?
I know that, at first, people might look at me and think I’m young but once I start talking, and it goes through the grapevine, you can win respect for what you do.

What do you do for fun?
Nothing much right now.

What did you do for fun?
I used to lift weights, hang out with my friends, but I haven’t really hung out with my friends too much because of this position.

Are you going to the 50 Cent concert?
Uh, no.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech on Senate Bill 44, S.D. 2, H.D. 2, C.D. 1
Tuesday, April 29, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this measure.

Senate Bill 44 has been amended to give the administration as much flexibility as possible. The bill, as amended, provides that if the Administration and concessionaires cannot agree on relief, the Administration can either; (1) terminate the concession contract; or (2) force the concession to remain in business on a break even, no profit basis. Even if expenses exceed income, the Administration can require the concession to pay some rents in addition to its monthly losses for a period up to 6 months. Disputes as to what constitutes break even, no profit rents would be decided by a court-appointed arbitrator. Moreover, anytime while a concession is receiving relief, the Administration can terminate the concession contract.

This measure will also allow fair market rents to be applied, which will obviously be lower after force majeure events occur such as September 11th and the War on Iraq. The fact that the bill gives the Administration the right to terminate the contract and put it out to bid ensures that it will have the opportunity of seeking fair market rents at all times. Further, the fact that the bill allows the Administration to require the concessionaire to remain in business on a break even, no profit basis provides the Administration with the option of recovering better than fair market rents since no one remains in business on a break even, no profit basis.

Some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle mentioned that the smaller concessionaires should be separate from bigger concessionaires. Why split up a handful of companies in this regulated industry? By doing this, the administration can divide and conquer, and broker different deals with the various concessionaires. This would lead to unfairness to certain concessionaires because of their gross sales, size and type of customers.

The Administration and some members across the aisle keep mentioning Hawaii's largest concessionaire, Duty Free Shoppers, which is being targeted because of its size and the amount of money they generate for the State. DFS' Waikiki store was again mentioned as one of the reasons for the attention being placed on the company. As I stated in the past on the floor, had it not been for the DFS Waikiki store, the State would not have been able to receive approximately $2.5 billion dollars, and a good number of the $575 million unrestricted-surplus-special fund is from DFS.

On December 2, 2002, the Administration explained that Hawaii is now open for business. Those words meant a lot to me; however, actions speak louder than words. Let me emphasize that the concessionaires are businesses that hire local employees and pump millions of dollars into our State. While the House is encouraging new businesses and investments in the knowledge-based industries, it is keeping current jobs alive and revenues flowing in the regulated industries, the airlines and now the concessionaires. Yet the Administration has proposed to gut Act 221 and refused to negotiate with the concessionaires until the legislature introduced relief bills for them this session. This measure and Act 221 is as pro-business as you can get. The actions taken by the House of Representatives and Senate clearly show that yes, Hawaii is indeed open for business.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

I was very busy this past couple of weeks with conference committees. I was assigned to 41 conferences, 24 of which he served as a co-chair, representing the interest of the House Finance Committee of which he serves as a member. This week will be the last week for the 2003 Legislative Session. Tomorrow, the legislature will be preparing for Tuesday and Thursday's final reading on the floor for all conference drafts.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Speech Before the Press
“Equal Pay Day”
National Committee on Pay Equity
Tuesday, April 15, 2003

In honor of “Equal Pay Day,” I would like to express my utmost support of the equal pay movement. In my different occupations as a teacher, attorney and legislator, I have seen firsthand the ability and experience of my female colleagues and I believe that appointments and salary should be merit-based rather than rooted in gender.

In the last few decades, there has been heightened awareness of wage inequity between males and females. Still, we must take great strides if we are to eliminate gender discrimination in the corporate world and reach the ultimate goal of wage parity.

I am committed to many women's causes, including pay equity in America and I will do what I can to ensure that women receive “equal pay for equal work.” I will support legislation that more clearly defines what constitutes wage discrimination, as ambiguity has allowed this type of prejudice to persist. Finally, in observance of Equal Pay Day 2003, I urge the equal treatment of all people, regardless of race, color, sex, religion or national origin. Thank you.

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Remarks on House Resolution 17, House Draft 1
State-Province Relations of Friendship Between the State of Hawaii of the United States of America and the Province of Ilocos Norte of the Republic of the Phillipines
Friday, April 11, 2003

“Mr. Speaker,

I am proud to represent the district of Waipahu, which has a very diverse and rich history. Many of my constituents are of Filipino ancestry and have family roots that trace back to the Province of Ilocos Norte of the Republic of the Philippines. A State-Province relationship of friendship between the State of Hawaii of the United States of America and the Province of Ilocos Norte of the Republic of the Phillipines will promote cultural, commercial, and financial exchange between the two regions. Furthermore, this relationship will foster peace and diplomacy for years to come.

Thank you.”

REPRESENTATIVE JON RIKI KARAMATSU
Senate Bill 1478, Senate Draft 2, House Draft 1
Airport Concessionaires Floor Speech
Tuesday, April 08, 2003

“Mr. Speaker,

The operations at the Honolulu International Airport are primarily funded by two sources: airline landing fees and airport concessionaire rental payments.

With the threat of terrorist attacks, the federal Homeland Security mandates has greatly affected the flow of people going through our airport. Long lines prevent travelers from purchasing at the concessionaire stores. Further, families and friends who used to enter the airport terminal to greet or send off passengers at their gate are now stopped at the security checkpoints and cannot enter the area of the airport where the concessionaires conduct business.

Let us consider the largest vendor, Duty Free Shoppers Hawaii (DFS): a company that employs 1200 Hawaii residents and pays tens of millions of dollars a year in state taxes. In its 40 years of doing business, DFS has never been held in default on an airport concession agreement anywhere in the world. This company has generated approximately $2.5 billion for the Hawaii airport system. Keep in mind that this is a company that had humble beginnings as a small little store in Waikiki.

In addition, in giving relief, it is important to note that in regards to DFS, like the airlines, government heavily regulates them, as a majority of DFS' customers must be international travelers. Therefore, DFS is not your average store where all merchandise can be sold to anybody. When asked in the House Finance Committee why the concessionaires pay a higher percentage of the operating fund for the Honolulu International Airport when airports in other states require a much lower percentage from their concessionaires, the Department of Transportation replied that the reasoning was DFS has a Waikiki Store outside of the airport. However, had it not been for the DFS Waikiki store, the State would not have been able to receive $2.5 billion from them.

That being said let me clear up some confusion as to DFS' rental payment to the State. It is true the company made a required partial debt repayment of $100 million to its primary financial creditor, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton. But consider this. In this post-9/11 airline and airport related business environment, it is risky for corporations to assume the financial risk in supporting companies such as DFS. In order for DFS to survive, it had to pay its primary creditor Louis Vuitton to receive continued financial support from them so it can pay its airport rents. Recently, the company made a $25 million rental payment to the State and it would not have been able to do so if it went bankrupt. Instead, DFS wants to continue to be a contributing partner in Hawaii by providing jobs and bringing revenue into the State.

In the aftermath of 9/11, much of the airline landing fees have been waived or greatly reduced by the State of Hawaii in addition to relief from Congress. Likewise, we must do what we can to help the concessionaires who in the past 20 years have contributed close to 60% of airport operating revenues when the airlines contributed close to 10%. For most airports, these percentages are reversed and relief for concessionaires was given. For example, in California, LAX Airport recently provided relief to DFS by suspending their minimum rent of $37 million a year until 2005. Instead, DFS will pay 23% of sales this year, 27% in 2004 and 28 to 39% through mid-2005 depending on sales.

We must not allow government regulations to smother the businesses in our airport or the State may be left with even less revenue from them or none at all. The airport concessionaires are offering to pay DOT rents they can afford with the DOT having the right to replace them if someone is willing to pay 10% more rent. If replaced by a new tenant and not penalized and barred from future re-bidding, the airport concessionaires agree to make no claims against the DOT and to suffer the loss of any improvements and any losses relating to the cancellations of their office, warehouse and equipment leases. This offer by the concessionaires shows their good faith effort to remain in business, keep Hawaii's people employed, and generate revenues for our State.

In this period of global turmoil, we do not always have the ideal alternatives before us. Sometimes we need to make a decision that is right for the times and circumstances we live in. This is the right choice for this time and under these circumstances.

Thank you.”

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu
Floor Speech on House Bill 200, House Draft 1
Wednesday, March 12, 2003

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this measure.

In the Governor's Message – signed and dated on February 7, 2003, the Governor cut $11,015,863 to our public schools' funding for fiscal years 2004 and 2005.

However, seventeen days later, on February 24, 2003, on CNN Inside Politics, Governor Lingle was asked whether she cut education to balance the state budget. The Governor responded, “We did not cut education funding at all in the State of Hawaii. It's just what the previous governor proposed as an increase was not realized in the budget that we submitted.”

It is one thing to speak rhetoric on all the promises she wants to do that is not fiscally feasible, but now she is going further by sending lies out to the general public on her cuts to public education.

Despite this, Mr. Speaker, we are pushing the Governor's proposals forward because we want to work with her and will continue to work with her.”

This weekend was very eventful. On Saturday morning, Senator Brian Kanno and I co-chaired an easter egg hunt in Village Park.

On Saturday night, my friend Stacey Hayashi I attended the premiere for a documentary on U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye at Pearl Harbor. The event took place on and around the U.S.S. Missouri.

On Sunday moring, I attended the 60th Anniversary of the 442nd Regimental Combat, a World War II unit made up of mostly Americans of Japanese ancestry. This is the most decorated unit ever. I was very emotionally touched to see all the veterans and the Congressional Medal of Honor awardees. That evening, I presented an award at the 6th Annual Hawaii Music Awards at Kapono's.

Floor Speech on House Bill 691 Regarding Procurement.
Thursday, February 27, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this measure.

According to HRS §103D-1007, a state agency shall award a public works contract to an offeror who has filed all state tax returns due to the State and paid all amounts owing on such returns for two successive years prior to submitting the offer; provided that the amount of that offer is not more than seven percent higher than the amount offered by any competing contractor who has not filed or paid all applicable state taxes, and the amount of the offer by the state tax paying offeror is $5,000,000 or less.

However, the current statute disqualifies a joint venture of two or more contractors from receiving the preference because the joint venture has not previously filed a state tax return even though each contractor individually qualifies for this preference. This places the smaller contractor at a disadvantage in bidding against larger contractors.

For public works projects, House Bill 691 would allow a joint venture of two or more contractors to qualify for the preference if all joint venture contractors meet the requirements of HRS §103D-1007. Passage of this measure will help the smaller contractors to compete for and bid on larger contracts that they might not be able to perform individually and result in a greater number of bids being submitted.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

On March 7, 2003, I did a floor presentation celebrating the public unveiling of the Hawai‘i Learning Interchange’s Archetype and commending the Hawai‘i Arts Education Partners and Apple Computer for creating a national model of academic excellence

Floor Speech Supporting an Economic Diversification Authority
Tuesday, March 4, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Standing Committee Report Number 836.

Mr. Speaker, many of our state departments and agencies work hard to economically develop their subject matters. However, there needs to be greater coordination between these government entities to ensure economic diversification occurs. House Bill 1579 House Draft 1 addresses this by creating an authority that will coordinate the State's efforts to create a plan, develop policies, strategize in how we market Hawaii, and find ways to eliminate or reduce barriers to diversify our economy. Therefore, to make Hawaii competitive in the global market, we must take action now to diversify our economy.

Thank you Mr. Speaker

Floor Speech on Contraceptives for Sexual Assault Survivors in Hospital Emergency Rooms
Tuesday, March 4, 2003:

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Standing Committee Report Number 838.

Mr. Speaker, the statistics on sexual assault in our country and Hawaii are staggering. One in four girls are sexually abused before the age of 18. One out every 6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime. In 2001, the Department of the Attorney General reported a 16.8% increase in reported forcible rape in Hawaii from 2000.

However, research indicates that less than 30% of all sexual assaults are reported. If everything were reported, the statistics would drastically increase. Personally, I have friends who have never reported or sought help for their sexual assault.

When I was a student leader at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, I served on the Sexual Harassment Policy Committee and was astounded to hear the stories of sexual assault just at the college level, many of which were not reported beyond the University's sexual assault counselor. Part of the problem is that our society is very quiet about this crisis. Consequently, survivors feel unsupported or even at fault for their predicament.

House Bill 189 House Draft 2 takes a positive step in their healing process. This measure will help inform sexual assault survivors of all options available to them including emergency contraceptives for sexual assault survivors in emergency rooms.

After the attack, many of these women and girls are traumatized and may not be able to think clearly. Many survivors develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, the same disorder suffered by survivors of war. This measure will help our women and girls at the beginning of their lifelong struggle. As statistics indicate, many will eventually face drug abuse, eating disorders, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction, and even suicide, in addition to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Restricting information and options available at our hospitals does not make the process any easier for them. We must do all we can to support survivors, and not re-victimize them by withholding all options available in their time of need.

Mr. Speaker, seven years ago, when I was in college, I tried to do what I could to help a friend who survived a rape she experienced as a teenager that was not reported. My friend implied that there was nothing I could do. I entered politics determined to make a difference, especially for those who feel abandoned. And so today I stand before the House of Representatives in support of this measure to send a message to the women and girls of Hawaii that they are not alone. I want them to know that their leaders will do all they can to ensure sexual assault survivors have all information and options before them because their welfare is the top priority.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

Floor Speech on the Enterprise Zone Bill
Tuesday, March 4, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Standing Committee Report Number 849.

Mr. Speaker, the enterprise zone program was created in 1986 to encourage business activity, job creation, and economic diversification where they are most needed through regulatory flexibility and tax incentives. However, with the threat of war and economic uncertainty, time is of the essence, therefore, we must go further and work proactively to support areas losing a great number of jobs.

Current law allows each county in the State of Hawaii to select six areas for designation by the Governor as enterprise zones. House Bill 685 House Draft 2 would go further by directing the governor to work with the city and county of Honolulu to create additional enterprise zones in areas where commercial real estate have a vacancy rate of fifteen percent or more. Underutilized commercial real estate and the loss of jobs in these areas must be addressed before the situation worsens.

Although this measure would waive the requirements in sections 209E-4 and 209E-5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, relating to zone designation and application review, the strict eligibility requirements in section 209E-9 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes will still be applicable for these two-year period enterprise zones.

Accordingly, to be eligible, a business located in an enterprise zone must earn at least half of its annual gross revenue from trade or business within the zone. In addition, businesses must satisfy one of the following hiring requirements. “New” businesses must increase their average annual number of full time employees by at least 10 percent the first year. At the end of Year 2, the average annual number of full-time employees must not drop below the required Year One average. For “Existing” businesses, they must increase their annual average number of full-time by at least 10 percent the first year. In Year 2, existing businesses will need to continue their average annual number of full-time employees by at least 10 percent as well. Therefore, businesses must still work to receive state and city incentives.

For the sake of fiscal responsibility, House Bill 685 House Draft 2 is very specific. On Tuesday, February 25, 2003 before the House Committee on Finance, The Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) in its written testimony, stated, “…we have determined that of the three types of commercial real estate: office, industrial and retail space, there are few geographic areas on Oahu that have a vacancy rate of 15% or more in any of these categories.” Hence, this bill will not be applied freely but rather prudently to areas in dire need.

For members concerned about “home rule,” the city and county of Honolulu can choose not to provide any of its incentives set forth in section 209E-12 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes if it is unable or unwilling to participate. Such a decision by the City will not terminate the temporary enterprise zone term of two years. Moreover, qualified businesses in these temporary enterprise zones will still be eligible to receive the state tax incentives until the zone terminates as a result of this measure’s two year sunset clause.

Finally, this measure supports our goal in diversifying our economy by allowing a variety of industries to participate in this program, including a good number from the knowledge-based industries.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.

Floor Presentation for Teachers Leonard Villanueva and Lynne Aki Johnson, Recipients of the Milken Family Foundation 2002-2003 National Educator Award

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution.

When it comes to heroes, Mr. Kanemoto, Mrs. Higashi, and Mrs. Chun come to mind. They were also my teachers.

The unsung heroes are the teachers who try to keep our young people engaged in their education. They serve as a member of each child's extended “ohana,” as they counsel, discipline, and support our children for nearly six hours a day, five days a week, nine to ten months every year.

Critics complain about the school system and call it “broken.” They are so eager to make a point about some of the failures of the system, but forget to recognize and honor the many positive things that are happening. Regardless if we have one, seven, or a hundred boards of education, it is people that make are schools great.
Leonard Villanueva, a teacher at Honowai Elementary School in my district, and Lynne Aki Johnson, a teacher at Aikahi Elementary School in Representative Thielen's district, represent the best in teaching because they make small miracles happen everyday in the lives of the children in their classrooms.

They too, are heroes.

Leonard Villanueva dreamt about becoming a teacher and has lived his dream for the past 15 years. He is a fourth grade teacher at Honowai Elementary School and with his knowledge of standards-based education and high expectations of his students, he is affectionately called “Mr. Standards.”

By his presence and example, he energizes his students and motivates them to learn. Even in his free time, he still teaches as a volleyball coach and an after-school tutor. And, through all his activities and by his example, he involves and continues to teach his son as a single parent. It is for these reasons The Milken Family Foundation named Mr. Villanueva as a recipient of their 2002-2003 National Educator Award, citing him for his exceptional and exemplary classroom practice and leadership. I am proud to present him before our honorable body to be able to say thank you for teaching and loving our children.

Mr. Villanueva, can you please rise. Also joining Mr. Villanueva today are his parents: Jose and Judith Villanueva.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I am currently working on my floor speeches for Third Reading bills that will be on the floor on Tuesday, March 1, 2003. My House Bill 685 HD2 relating to enterprise zones will be up for third reading on that day as well.

For third reading on the House floor, I made a floor speech my House Bill 691, which would basically allow contractors to join together as a joint venture in the bidding process so long as each contractor individually has paid state taxes for the past two years. This bill would help small companies to participate in the bidding process when individually, it would be hard to do. House Bill 691 passed third reading with no opposition and will be heading over to the Senate.

This morning I participated in Honowai Elementary School's drug free march in the neighborhood. I took some pictures of the school's library because it is in need of air conditioning.

My enterprise bill passed Finance Committee with amendments and will be up for third reading.