JON RIKI KARAMATSU

I just finished reading Nicholas Sparks’ novel “The Best of Me.” Like “The Notebook,” the last several chapters were my favorite part. This story was interesting in that a romance between Dawson and Amanda was rekindled 25 years later from the time they first fell in love as teens. Dawson remained single, whereas, Amanda was married with three children. There were some very sad moments, but in the end, some good came out of tragedy.

Jodo Shu Hawaii Bon Dance will be on August 14 and 15, 2015 from 6:30 P.M. at 1429 Makiki Street, Honolulu.

My partners in the private sector are friends of mine and we’re working on projects that face a lot of hurdles, including factors that we can’t control. Every project that we’re involved with is in the development process so we’re not making any money now, thus, having a supportive relationship with one another is nice to have. When I was a politician, much of my staff were friends of mine as well, and likewise, we supported one another through the ups and downs. Lastly, I’m lucky to have close family and friends to talk to or be with, who play a huge role in helping me to keep my spirits up as I take on new challenges.

Below is a commercial for the NASDAQ expressing the importance of having good partners.

I attended the 2015 Hawaii Lodging, Hospitality & Foodservice Expo during the afternoon of Thursday, July 9, 2015 at the Neil S. Blaisdell Center.

Godspeed my brothers and sisters! Fail forward and brush off those negative experiences. You’re moving so fast that nothing can stop you. Keep spreading love and compassion to every person you can. Just do what you got to do, follow your passion, and live life with all you’ve got!

Here’s an uplifting song for you called “Godspeed You” by Francesco Rossi ft. Ozark Henry and remixed by New ID.

With Warmest Aloha, Jon Riki Karamatsu

When you read a novel or watch a movie, often times there’s a romantic interest in the story. Many of us are drawn to it because of the feelings that only “love” can emit – that dreamy-like state we call “cloud nine.” A hopeless desire for someone, for better or worse. To experience it in our lifetime is a blessing. Not to worry though, if you don’t find it in this life, you’ll find it in the next. I wrote about it, and if a company picks it up, you can experience it.

Below is a music video with clips of the romance between the characters Han and Gisele in the Fast and Furious movies.

Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team – Women’s World Cup Champions! They played a great game yesterday, July 5, 2015 against defending champions Japan in Vancouver, Canada. The U.S. team exploded for four goals in the first 16 minutes of the World Cup final (including three from Carli Lloyd alone) en route to a 5–2 rout of Japan, who’d defeated them on penalty kicks in the final four years ago. It’s our country’s first Women’s World Cup win since 1999, and third overall. I’m so proud of them for all their hard work, and representing our country well in the world’s most popular sport.

Recently, I ran into my long-time friend at the Honpa Hongwanji Bon Dance on Saturday, June 27, 2015. He and I met at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Back then, we studied together, served in the ASUH Senate, and planned out our career – mine in law and politics and his in finance and the corporate world. I got him to be involved in politics and he emphasized the importance of business and a strong economy. Several years after we graduated college, I was in state elected politics and started an Internet retail business, and he became a Vice President and then an Executive Vice President of a decent sized corporation. We continued to support each other and did things together until he got married and moved away. Well now we’re back together as we reinvent ourselves – I’m now focused on building positive products or service for people through stories, music events and food, and likewise, my friend is trying do it through the digital arts, especially on the powerful attraction that a woman can radiate. It feels great to strategize with him again, trying to pierce through the dark unknown that is ahead of us. All we have is mostly dreams right now, but as scary as it can be, I’m excited to see how far our efforts can go.

The digital arts has gotten really popular. Since my friend is working on digital art focusing on women, I did some research, and here are a few that I found that’s sure to catch your attention, and I also found a song to match them. Enjoy!

This song helps me to come up with 10 ideas a day, and overcome failures and experiences with negative people.

Daily goals and 10 ideas a day!

To all my friends going through hard times,

We always come back. Even death won’t stop us. Our work will live on.

Always, Jon

June 24, 2015

Hi Everyone!

Thanks for stopping by. It’s amazing how fast time goes by. I’ve been writing in this journal since December 2002, just after my entrance into State politics. In that year, I also started my first business, an Internet retail store selling Hawaiian or island-themed products. I created this journal so I could share my political journey, as well as my experience in business and life in general. I’ve enjoyed not just sharing legislation and business projects, but also my interest in the arts and popular culture.

Now that I’m taking a break from public service – elected and appointed office, I’m going to put all my efforts, ideas, and passion into my business projects. I’m working on a few with my friends right now. I will also advocate hard on behalf of businesses that need help with transactions, legislation, grants, and other issues.

As far as my journal, I’ll continue to write about public policy every so often, but my main focus will be about positive living. I will highlight services or products that can help us to achieve a more happy and fulfilling life. Of course positive living is a practice and it starts with each of us, but if we can better ourselves by learning from others or utilizing products to help us stay on course, then its worth the try. I will also post music, art, and writings that can lift your spirit. Basically, I will do my best to showcase things that can be of value to your life. Take care, stay positive, and make the most of every moment.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

Love stories are what keeps me living for more, and someday I want to share them with you.

Dear Friends,

On April 8, 2015, I officially stepped down as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and Legislative Liaison of the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu. Prosecuting Attorney Keith M. Kaneshiro and I met while I was serving as Judiciary Chair in the Hawaii State House of Representatives. He has been a great mentor and friend to me. I will always cherish my time in his administration for it had allowed me to finish a number of my goals to reduce violence, especially in the areas of assault and rape.

I’m taking a break from public service, a passion I’ve had since my days as a Boy Scout and student government leader. Instead, I’m focusing on several business projects that can play a role in bringing joy in people’s lives in addition to generating revenue for our State and nation. Further, I will advocate for companies who need help with contracts, commercial leases, grants, bonds, tax credits, or changes in the laws/rules. Lastly, I’ll consider some legal defense work. I’m currently working with an events company, agriculture company, and bar. Through the private sector, I’ll work as hard as I can to play a small role in making our world happier and our economy as vibrant as it can be. Thank you for your kind words and thoughts.

Below is my letter of April 7, 2015 to Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Keith M. Kaneshiro, requesting to step down as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu:

April 7, 2015

Dear Prosecuting Attorney Kaneshiro,

At this time, I am submitting my letter of resignation as Deputy Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu. With the intense media coverage on my pending OVUII case, I do not want to be a distraction to the work of the department.

I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney. While here, I was able to achieve 736 convictions (715 plea convictions and 21 trial convictions) and fulfill some personal goals through my work on criminal cases and legislation dealing with domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes. Over the years, there have been many people who have confided in me about their experiences with violence. When I was a young college student, a female friend told me about how she was raped as a teenager, though she never reported it to law enforcement. I was emotionally impacted by her plight, and told her that, someday, I would fight against violence by working in law and politics. I have now fulfilled my promise, and dedicate my work to her and the many other survivors of violence.

I have really enjoyed working with you, your administrative team, and our legislative team: Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Tricia Nakamatsu, Victim Witness Advocate Division Director Dennis Dunn, Clerk Julia Kaneshiro, former Clerk Maria Stevens, and former Clerk Paul Lacuesta. Together, in the past four-and-a-half years, we worked to introduce and pass 18 bills on behalf of this department, and helped to reestablish state-funding, in the amount of over $2 million, that allowed continued participation in the many state-mandated programs that this department has had to shoulder. We were not only great team members, but also great friends.

I have also enjoyed working with all of the other attorneys and staff who have served in our department. I am grateful for the wonderful memories that I have shared with many of them.

Lastly, I wanted to express my appreciation for your mentorship and encouragement over the past four-and-a-half years, which allowed me to do my best work in litigation and lobbying the legislature. Your support has always meant a great deal to me, especially when I had a challenging time at court or at the legislature. Thank you again, for giving me the opportunity to work in your administration.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
City and County of Honolulu

After attending a meeting for a facility for an event, I went to the National Eagle Scout Association Summer Bash 2015 mixer at Longhi’s restaurant in Ala Moana Shopping Center.  It’s a social where Eagle Scouts can talk and network.  I won a portable cooler for a drawing.

On June 16, 2015, the U.S. Women’s Soccer team defeated Nigeria 1 – 0 in the Women’s World Cup to advance out of their bracket.

I dedicate this song to my two wonderful nieces: 2 year-old Elyse and 3 month-old Sophie.  They inspire me so much.  I want to make this world more peaceful for them.  In March 2015, my mom, dad, younger sister Lara, and I visited the Bay Area, California to be with my younger sister Mia, brother-in-law Mike, and niece Elyse to await the arrival of Sophie.  Several times I played with Elyse as she pushed her wooden animals in a wooden truck on the floor of the living room.  She called the animals “aminals” just like the title of this song “Aminals” by Baths.  I just happened to listen to this song this afternoon as I worked on the edits of my first novel, a paranormal romance that takes place in Hawaii and a spiritual realm where spirits are trapped.  The song made me think of my two nieces who I wish I could see more often even though I Skype with them almost weekly with my mom, dad, and baby sister Lara. It’s just not the same as seeing them in person.

Jon holding his newborn niece Sophie on March 7, 2015 at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco.

Jon and his 2-year old niece Elyse watching an animated movie on March 15, 2015 in San Mateo, California.

Jon playing with his 2-year old niece Elyse with her “aminals” as she called them on March 25, 2015 in San Mateo, California.

The U.S. Women’s Soccer Team did a good job against Sweden despite getting a tie of 0 – 0 on Friday, June 12, 2015 at Winnipeg Stadium in Winnipeg, Canada.

The U.S. Women’s Soccer team did well against Australia in the Women’s World Cup at Winnipeg Stadium in Winnipeg, Canada, winning 3 – 1 on Monday, June 8, 2015. I got to see the game on television as my business partners and I conducted our meeting for event planning.

I dream of stories that move the hearts of people to live with love and compassion rather than with anger, enough so that they make the world more peaceful.

I envision music events that bring people together, putting smiles on faces and giving them joy even if it’s for just a moment.

I believe in agricultural products that are enjoyed around the world and every time people take a bite, they know it’s from Hawaii.

After a 6 hour meeting from noon, followed by a dinner at Akasaka on June 8, 2015, G, James, and I ending the day at The Dragon Upstairs. G is spinning old school hip hop.

My selfie with Brandon doing a selfie with the fire at a beach house on the North Shore on Saturday, May 23, 2015.

Brandon and I at a beach house on the North Shore on May 23, 2015.

Like many, I was disciplined mentally and physically to be strong.  But honestly, I’ve always had a soft side, and as I grew older, I’ve learned that it’s also strong to express love and compassion.  My mother has been my mentor on this and is my first teacher on being positive.  She has always supported everything I’ve done from school, sports, music, martial arts, community organizations, acting, law, politics, and business.  Since I was a kid, I always shared my goals and dreams with her.  I would often tell her, “Hey mom, hey mom, here’s the plan.  I’m going to . . .”  She would always tell me to give it a try.  My mom is my number one supporter and without her, I wouldn’t be who I am.  I dedicate to my mom the song below called “Mama” by LunchMoney Lewis.

After a bumpy ride in the market in April, especially with investments in biotech and China, May is looking pretty good for these sectors.  For biotech, BLUE did very well in the last 2 weeks.  Pharmaceutical company EGRX rose higher recently.  China stocks moving as well, like ASHR, an ETF.  Semiconductor stocks SWKS and AVGO doing well.  Conservative large cap companies AAPL and DIS are steadily gaining – I’m emotionally attached to these two companies because I love their products and services.  Good luck everyone and happy trading in the final week of May 2015.

While Vice President of the Associated Students of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, I introduced Senate Bill No. 20-98 during the Fall of 1997 that appropriated funds to extend the library hours at the UH law library during final exams. I also had bills extending the hours at UH Manoa’s 2 undergraduate libararies. This was during the time when budget cuts caused UH’s libraries to close early.

My poster for Vice President for the student government of the University of Hawaii at Manoa in the Spring of 1996.

My print ad that was inserted in the University of Hawaii at Manoa newspaper when I was running for student government Vice President in the Spring of 1996. Back then I had my 2002 State House campaign strategy ready in a binder, and I was already working on my 2010 Lt. Governor plan.

Entourage: Your most loyal friends.

Entourage: Your most loyal friends.

I’m very happy and proud to see William Domingo become judge.  I had the privilege to meet Mr. Domingo a number of years ago when I was in elected office.  I also got to work with him when he was my opposing counsel in court for criminal cases while I was a Honolulu Deputy Prosecuting Attorney.  He’s always a gentleman and his soul is in the right place.  He will bring balance to the often stressful and temperamental Judiciary branch.

A gift of Peppermint Herbal Tea from my friend and former partner in law/lobbying at the Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to help me as I work on the next chapter in my life. I made her my partner/editor on a couple of my creative writing projects.

Trader Joe’s Peppermint Herbal Tea.

I just saw this song advertised in a TV commercial some minutes ago and it inspired me to write a couple more scenes in my writing project #2 based in Iraq during the U.S. occupation. Two very romantic scenes between the boy and girl.

Thanks everyone for your thoughts. The facts will be revealed. For now, I’m focusing on all my private sector projects.

House Bill 210 – Appropriates moneys to the department of the prosecuting attorney of the city and county of Honolulu for the career criminal prosecution unit and victim witness assistance program.

House Bill 211 – Appropriates moneys to the department of the prosecuting attorney of the city and county of Honolulu for the Honolulu Family Justice Center.

House Bill 1198 – Appropriates funds to the Department of the Prosecuting Attorney of the City and County of Honolulu for the Honolulu Family Justice Center; provided that the City and County of Honolulu provides matching funds on a 1:1 basis.

House Bill 1461 – Appropriates funds to the department of education for the development of an alternative school program that provides ongoing education to juveniles involved in the justice system, and other youth.

Senate Bill 423 – Appropriates moneys to the department of the prosecuting attorney of the city and county of Honolulu for the career criminal prosecution unit and victim witness assistance program.

Senate Bill 424 – Appropriates moneys to the department of the prosecuting attorney of the city and county of Honolulu for the Honolulu Family Justice Center.

Senate Bill 1235 – Appropriates funds to the DOE for two alternative schools to provide ongoing education to juveniles in the justice system.

On Thursday, January 22, 2015, Brandon Mitsuda and I attended the Wahiawa Community & Business Association meeting and dinner at Dot’s restaurant as guests of Honolulu City Council Chair Ernie Martin.

I really like it that TD Ameritrade has a calendar marking the dates of all the earning reports for the companies you’re investing or tracking. Super convenient since I usually calendar in each company’s earning report in my Google Calendar and Google Tasks.

“Emptiness” is all around us, yet we make it something and we attach ourselves to it. We have attachments to things, which cause us an emotional suffering when we have a hard time paying for the debt it caused, or when the item is damaged or lost. We also have attachments to events and people that causes us sadness or worse, anger. Is it something or is it nothing? What we think is something is actually nothing. Our attachment to a thing, event, or person that causes us suffering is something only if we think it is something. Through detachment, we realize that “something” is actually “nothing.” Through this practice, we can alleviate our suffering and in turn, help others. – Jon Riki Karamatsu –

I currently have a total of 736 convictions (715 plea convictions and 21 trial convictions). In the afternoon of 12/16/2014, I finished my last case for 2014 by getting an unreasonable noise infraction in a plea deal with a private defense attorney in Honolulu District Court.

This evening of 11/15/2014, I finished the 12th draft of my Writing Project #1, a paranormal romance with 79,716 words at a coffee shop in the State of Hawaii, my third office.