JON RIKI KARAMATSU

In my role as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, I am going to do my best to change some of the laws to bring balance.  I am also going to do all I can to resolve many of the controversial issues.  The details will be revealed in time.

Last Sunday, I shot 38 caliber and 45 caliber pistols, 38 caliber rifles, and various shotguns at the firing range.  The last time I fired guns was when I was in the Boy Scouts when I was around 13 years old (I shot 22 caliber rifles and a 9 mill. handgun).  Like lifting weights, running, strategizing and meditating, firing guns was a way for me to release negative energy sent against me from many negative individuals.  In a dream world, guns would only be used for sports such as target shooting.  However, there will alway be the duality of good and evil.  There would be less evil, if evil was not done in the name of good.  At times, “good” has no idea that it is evil.

Let’s do all we can to keep the balance tipped towards the positive.  We only have a limited time in this world.  We need to be faster than “death.”  We have to say what we need to say and do what we need to do before it catches up with us because sooner or later, it will.  We can only do the best we can before our destiny is revealed to us.

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.

I hope you had a great Christmas, and I wish you the very best in 2009!

In my Judiciary Chairman’s office, I have my grandpa Maurice Karamatsu’s samurai sword behind me as a reminder to go all-out with strength and determination.  I am back seven hundred times stronger and even more determined to accomplish everything I set my mind and soul to do.  All negativity will be converted into positivity.  I have become stronger physically, mentally, and spiritually.  I am going to live everyday as if it will be my last.

As I look back at my life, I am so grateful for my family and friends.  I appreciate every girl I dated and every person I have met.  I am also thankful for my health.  Life is so short, you never know when your time will come.  

In the way of the samurai (bushido), one must be aware of death at all times.  When you are constantly aware of your impermanence, you appreciate your loved ones and your life.  Body is nothing more than emptiness, emptiness is nothing more than body.  All Bodhisattvas and Buddhas have practiced to understand “emptiness” in order to have no delusions.  With no delusions, there is no fear.  Bushido and Buddhism teachings gives us the guidance to not fear death by always preparing for death.  We live to die.  We should never be dying to live where you are always angry, placing harm on others, jealous of others, sad, wishing you could live a better life, or just living day-to-day.  Rather, we must strive to be happy, spread positive energy to others, and do all we possibly can in life.  We must try to face life’s challenges and live life to the fullest because we live, knowing we will die.  It is not easy to master this, but it is worth trying as hard as we can.

I look forward to everyday of life.  I can’t wait until the next day to work, exercise, enjoy my family and old friends, meet new friends, and make the most of my life.  I appreciate everything.

On Sunday, December 21, 2008, I turned 34 years old.  I attended a Shinnyo-en service at 10:00 A.M.  I ate lunch at Ala Moana Shopping center and bumped into my friend Nish.  My friend Scott Imaye, back home for awhile from Tokyo and Gavin Doi joined us to get our Christmas shopping done.   I guess it takes an entourage to get good ideas to get our shopping done for family, friends, and business contacts.  I celebrated my birthday with my mom, dad, and sister Lara at Gyu-Kaku at 6:00 P.M.  My sister and I joined the crew at Loulou’s after and we continued shopping until the mall closed.

My great uncle Roy Sadato Okubo recently passed away on December 2, 2008.  I attended his funeral on Saturday, December 20, 2008.  He was 86 years old and my late grandma Bessie Karamatsu’s younger brother.  When my grandma’s health was failing in the Spring of 2006, Uncle Roy held her hand by her bedside at the Queen’s hospital.  Uncle Roy is a member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, 522nd Field Artillery Battery B.  For most of my life I didn’t know I had a close relative that was a member of the famed 442, and when people asked me if I had a relative from this unit, I would reply “no.”  I am glad I told my uncle how I appreciated his sacrifice for us.  I recently found out that during the war, he could have returned home, but decided to stay with his friends and continued to serve.  I am so proud of him, and I am sure he is happy with his late wife, family, and friends, including my grandma.

Rep. Bob Nakasone and I at my fundraiser at St. Andrew’s Priory during the 2006 Legislative Session.

“Nada Sou Sou” by Rimi Natsukawa.  This is a song about the loss of a loved one.  Rep. Nakasone is of Okinawan ancestry and I remember him telling me that he was tired of traveling, but he would consider going to Okinawa with some of us in the House in the future.  I feel this song is fitting for him.

Representative Bob Nakasone

On Monday morning, December 8, 2008, I got a phone call and was told that Rep. Bob Nakasone passed away the day before.  I felt deep sadness.  He was my mentor and friend, a person that was so humble but very strong at the same time.  Rep. Nakasone was the stability of the House and the State of Hawaii.  Anyone and everyone would go to his office for advice, support, and friendship.  You name it, representatives and senators of both parties, including House Democrats who were dissidents, the governor, lobbyists, community leaders, and friends.  His closest friends and colleagues always looked forward to meeting with him.  He read the laws and other information constantly and was a wealth of knowledge.

In the 2002 Legislative Session, I had returned to Hawaii after graduating from law school and was working for Senator Carol Fukunaga.  In April 2002, after finishing work at Sen. Fukunaga’s office, I joined Blayne and I believe Reena at Rep. Luke’s office.  I had my binder that included my campaign strategy for 2002 that I began in 1996.  I showed Blayne my plan.  We went out the back entrance of the office to the balcony.  There was a small crowd making noise a little further down West.  We walked down and an older Japanese man said something like this, “Hey, come inside.”  I entered the office and noticed Rep. Jerry Chang and Speaker Joe Souki among a few people.  Rep. Chang told me to sit down on a chair by him.  He made me a cracker with a spread on it.  He asked me where I worked and I told him Sen. Fukunaga’s office.  Later in the conversation I told him I was running for the House.  Rep. Chang yelled out to Speaker Joe, “Hey Speaker, we got a new representative here!”  Later, I found out that the older Japanese man that invited me in was Rep. Bob Nakasone.  I didn’t even know who he was.  I thought he was staff at first.

I got elected that November of 2002 and quickly became friends with Speaker Calvin Say, Rep. Jerry Chang, and of course, Rep. Bob Nakasone.  As a young representative at 27 years old, I had my way of thinking, but I quickly realized that I had so much to learn.  The three of them played a big role in strengthening my legislative and political foundation.  What I learned from them, you can’t get from any degree, including my political science and law degrees.  I went to Rep. Nakasone’s office often on a regular basis to seek his point of view, understand history on an issue, and review laws and bills.  I enjoyed spending time with him and so many people that went in and out of his office.  At night, his office was called Club Bob’s.  There were healthy debates on issues.  Most importantly, there was always laughter and happiness there.  It was like a haven from all the stress of politics and life in general.  Rep. Nakasone had this strength that made you feel that everything was okay.

In the 2005 Legislative Session during the conference period, I was worn down after being yelled at by a couple of chairs in the House and a Senator.  I always just took the hits and tried my best to stay calm.  I was working on a middle ground on one issue and there was miscommunication on another issue.  The stress and emotions within me was at a threshhold.  I entered Rep. Nakasone’s office and just yelled out my frustration in three words.  I walked straight to the balcony and repeated my statement.  Speaker asked me, “what’s the matter and told me to come by him?”  He was sitting in the dark with Senate President Bobby Bunda on a couple of lawn chairs.  I sat on the concrete slab by Speaker Say and Rep. Nakasone came out of his office and sat by me on the concrete slab on the other side.  Speaker talked to me and made me feel better.  Rep. Nakasone didn’t have to say anything, but his presence just made me feel better.  I will never forget that night.

In the 2007 Legislative Session, I was Vice Speaker of the House.  During the conference period, Speaker Say told me to stay with Bob and make sure everything goes okay with the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation bill.  That bill went to the midnight deadline with the language Rep. Nakasone wanted.

Before the 2008 Elections, I had a small talk with Bob in his office.  As usual, he asked, “So how’s everything?”  I told him everything was okay.  He told me, “Don’t forget your dream.”  I looked at him and said, “Rep. Nakasone, I don’t know.  I can’t see past tomorrow.”  He stated again, “Jon, don’t forget your dream.”  I looked up to him, smiled, and nodded.  Those were the last words he told me.  He was hardly in his office and I was campaigning like crazy, so we didn’t get a chance to talk to each other again.

This past Tuesday, December 9, 2008, I laid in my bed all night thinking about Rep. Nakasone.  I couldn’t sleep.  I listened to music with my Ipod and headphones, but some of the songs just made me more sad.

Last night, December 12, 2008, I was working late at my office.  My friend and her daughter came by.  At about 9:15 P.M., we decided to walk to see the Christmas lights at Honolulu Hale.  As we walked down the stairs towards Iolani Palace, I heard a crowd making noise above us and then there was a loud laughter from a lady.  When I looked up to see where the noise was coming from, it was in the area of Rep. Nakasone’s office.  All of a sudden, there was pure silence.  There was no one there and no lights on anywhere.  No one was around us on the ground floor either.  I asked my friend if she heard what I heard and she said “Yes.”  All of a sudden, rain began to pour down heavily, so we returned back into the capitol to my office where I finished my work.  Later, we went to see the Christmas lights at Honolulu Hale.  I truly believe the noise was from another Rep. Nakasone gathering with some of his old friends at his office.  From the sound of it, there was so much joy and happiness.  Rep. Nakasone is happy and still here for us.  I will continue to seek advice from my dear friend and mentor.  He is in my heart forever.

I can’t believe this is the last month of 2008!  I have so much unfinished work to do.   I attended the Board of Regents of the University of Hawaii Reception at Kapiolani Community College’s Ka’Ikena Dining Room in the Ohelo Building at 5:00 P.M.

At the majority caucus meeting on Thursday, November, 13, 2008, I officially became the Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.  This is one of the three big committees in the House.  In years past, the committee has taken on many challenging issues such as same-sex marriage, civil unions, medical malpractice, death with dignity, and the three-strikes law for criminals.  Many political insiders consider this chairmanship the “kiss of death” leadership post because many chairs lose their seat or retire because of the many controversial issues, onslaught by emotional people, and the high stress level for the chair and his family.  I will do my best for the people of Hawaii.

Aloha,

For all of you who live in District 41, I sincerely appreciate your vote.  I am excited to get back to work on legislation and appropriations for our community and state.  This was the dirtiest election I have experienced as far as smear goes, but I continued to stick with my platform and send out positive energy.

To all my friends and family who volunteered for my campaign, words can’t express my grattitude for your love and support.  With a number of you, I have become friends with you by walking door-to-door, and I am really appreciative of you taking time out of your busy schedule to help my campaign.

To all my donors, I am appreciative of the funds you donated to my campaign, which helped to pay for my brochures, mailing costs, food, beverages, office supplies, and the list goes on.  Without you, I would not have been able to operate a professional campaign.

Thank you so much!  I will continue to do my best.  I love you all!

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

There were several negative pieces done by my opponent and a recent negative piece by the Republican Party that stated false information on many legislation.  I corrected some of the attacks that was sent earlier, however, there is not enough time for me to respond to the recent attacks against me.  Most recently, they attacked me on voting to weaken the DUI law when in fact I voted against the measure.  The bill would have allowed those who served their criminal sentence for DUI that received a lifetime license revocation to be allowed to drive again (civil side: ADLRO process) if they have special needs such as caring for ailing parents or children.  They also attacked me personally.  Finally, when I sign waved, my opponent’s supporters constantly taunted me about my DUI.

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.

Aloha,

The Peace Day Hawaii 2008 was a success after a year of planning.  This was the second annual celebration.  I want to thank all the Peace Day Hawaii Committee members, volunteers, donors, and participants.

Sincerely,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

Peace Day Hawaii 2008 Program

Welcome by Co-Emcees Cameron Kubota of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and Ayesha Cooray of Students for Peace with Iolani’s Institute for Peace.

Co-Chairs of Peace Day Hawaii 2008 Committee

Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu and Ms. Ann Ishizu

 “Voices of Peace”

Hongwanji Mission School Choir

Introduction of Dignitaries

Key Note Speaker

Ms. Gloria Tumbaga

“Now Power and Good Vibrations”

Max Louie and Dani-One

Presentation of Peace Day Hawaii Award

Senator Matt Matsunaga

“Peace”

Pacific Buddhist Academy Taiko

Remarks by The United Nations Association Student Alliance

Alexa Berman, Joni Caminos, and Daniyal Saud

“Joy Joy and Down by the Riverside”

A Class Act

Peace Video

Rotary Club of Honolulu

Candle Lighting Ceremony ~ “A Candle for Peace”

Hongwanji Mission School Choir and A Class Act

A Moment of Silence

Commemorating Peace in Hawaii

Sponsors and Donors

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A & B Foundation

Dean Foods

Hawaii Convention Center

Hawaii Lions District 50

Senator Gary L. Hooser

Na Lei Aloha Foundation

Olelo Community Television

Poi Pounder Hawaii

Projection Presentation Technology

Robert Rivero

Peace Day Hawaii

2008 Planning Committee

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Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu, co-chair

Hawaii House of Representatives

Ann Ishizu, co-chair

Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii

Candace Van Buren                Dr. B. Jeannie Lum

Business Owner                                                UH College of Education

Erin Fujimoto                           Georgette Deemer

Student Intern, UNA                             State House Communications

Ian Kitajima                     Jacob Chang

Oceanit                                                 Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii

Joanne Tachibana                  Joni Caminos

UNA – USA Hawaii Division                Pacific Forum CSIS

Lauren Zirbel                         Pamela Ferguson-Brey

Hawaii Food Industry Assn.                   Department of Public Safety

Pieper Toyama              Rene Mansho

Pacific Buddhist Academy                     Hawaii Lions District 50

Rep. Lyla Berg                        Reverend Mike Young

Hawaii House of Representatives           First Unitarian Church of Honolulu

Sen. Carol Fukunaga             Sen. Gary Hooser

Hawaii Senate                                       Hawaii  Senate

Sparky Rodrigues                  Thelma Dreyer

Olelo Community Television                   State House Communications

Dr. Rosemary Casey               Wayne Yagi

UH Office of Int’l  Education                Office of Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu 

Background

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On April 18, 2007, Governor Linda Lingle signed House Bill 345 into law as Act 23.  It established a Peace Day Hawaii to be observed on September 21 of each year by promoting peace programs, improving international relations, and increasing educational awareness of peace.  Hawaii is the first state to officially recognize the United Nation’s International Day of Peace, now celebrated in more than 200 countries worldwide.

House Bill 345 was introduced by Representative Jon Riki Karamatsu on behalf of the members of the Hawaii Federation of Junior Young Buddhist Associations of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii.  During the 2007 Legislative Session, the bill drew enthusiastic participation from members and advisors of the Hawaii Federation of Junior Young Buddhist Associations and from many diverse groups including the Matsunaga Institute for Peace, Domestic Violence Clearinghouse and Legal Hotline, Retail Merchants of Hawaii, Wahiawa Lions Club, Hawaii State Teachers Association, League of Women Voters, Pacific Buddhist Academy and numerous citizens.

An ad hoc committee established in 2007 with members representing a broad cross-section of government, not-for-profit organizations and other participants from the peace education community have worked diligently to make this celebration possible.

On Friday, October 17, 2008, I met with a representative of the Hawaii Association of Realtors in the afternoon.  That evening I met with Filipino community leaders and the Vice Governor, mayor, and a principal from Isabella, Philippines to see if we can get them used educational books.

On Saturday, September 13, 2008, I attended the Teo Chew dinner at Ala Moana Hotel from 6:00 P.M.

Thank you for your support in the Primary Election on September 20, 2008.  I will continue to do my best for our community and state. 

On a negative note, I was attacked by negative mailers that were illegal since there was no legitimate organization or address printed.  I will continue to be positive and focus on my platform for my community and Hawaii.  Thank you to all of you who volunteered and donated funds!  I sincerely appreciate your support.

On Friday, September  12, 2008, I attended the dinner portion of the Ironworkers’ golf tournament at Waikele Golf Course.  After, I attended the Subcontractors Association of Hawaii Annual Conference reception at Ihilani Resort.  I talked to a couple of friends and two residents of Waikele I visited going door-to-door.  I can’t believe I walked most of my district 9 times since 2002.  I loss about 7 pounds and am past the 50,000 household mark.

August 29, 2008: Presented a House certificate to Waipahu High School teacher Kristi Hammond for winning the Outstanding Educator 2007 from Oceanic Time Warner and Pizza Hut.  My office manager Wayne Yagi and I surprised her at the school.  Also, we attended Waipahu Intermediate School’s celebration event for Tanner Tokunaga of the Waipio Little League World Series championship team.  Tanner was taken around the campus in a golf cart followed by another as the students went crazy.  The State House and State Senate presented him certificates as well as some of the Waipahu community organizations.

September 3, 2008: Attended HGEA’s “Meet the Candidates Lunch” at their building.

September 4, 3008: Attended Hawaii Agriculture conference lunch through Alec Sou at the Hawaii Convention Center.

September 5, 2008: Peace Day Hawaii Committee meeting from 5:00 P.M.

September 6, 2008: Attended Chinese Dancing dinner and event at Ala Moana Hotel from 6:15 P.M. through friend Wayne Lu.

August 14, 2008: I attended Olelo Waipahu’s First Anniversary Party at Waipahu Intermediate School.  I made a speech congratulating them.

August 16, 2008: I volunteered at Jodoshu’s bon dance.  I helped MC under the yagura.

August 17, 2008: I taped my campaign statement at Olelo in Mapunapuna.

August 18, 2008: I attended Monsanto Hawaii’s groundbreaking Ceremony at Kunia.  Monsanto grows fruit and vegetable seeds.

August 19, 2008: I was recognized for my work by the Science & Technology Council at their press conference at Booz Allen Hamilton in the Pacific Guardian Center, Dowtown Honolulu; I had lunch with a government relations person from Watanabe Ing law firm and Rep. Ken Ito; and I participated in a traditional service at Jodoshu.

August 20, 2008: Met with my S adviser.

August 21, 2008: I presented a House certificate to Sopogy, Inc. and John Rei from the company for their achievements; I had a meeting with the agriculture industry; I attended a meeting/reception with the seafood industry at the Fishing Village at Pier 38.

August 22, 2008:  I had a meeting with a Rep. Kirk Caldwell, Rep. Pono Chong, and Calvin Azama.

August 26, 2008: I had lunch with a government representative from Alexander & Baldwin and Rep. Ken Ito; and I chaired our bi-weekly Peace Hawaii Committee meeting.

August 27, 2008: I attended HGEA Unit 13’s meeting and dinner gathering at HGEA’s headquarters.

August 28, 2008: I met with the Ironworkers; and I spoke at Waipahu Neighborhood Board’s Candidates’ Forum.

I want to thank my family, friends, and numerous individuals for their donations and support.

Mahalo to the Hawaii Carpenters Union, Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA), and the Hawaii Government Employees Associations (HGEA) for their early endorsements.

Thank you to the numerous business organizations and unions for all your support such as the Hawaii Association of Realtors, Insurer’s Council, Island Insurance, Hawaii Science & Technology Council, Sopogy Inc., Energy Industries Inc., Hawaii Farm Bureau, Aloun Farms, Nalu Farms, Fat Law Farms, Hawaii Bankers Association, First Hawaiian Bank, Central Pacific Bank, Outrigger Hotels, Hawaii Transportation PAC, Watanabe Ing & Komeiji, Chun Kerr Dodd Beaman & Wong, Meadow Gold, Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA), Campbell Estate, Alexander & Baldwin, Castle & Cooke, ABC Stores, Hawaii Auto Dealers, Street Bikers United Hawaii Inc., Hawaiian Telcom, HEI, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Ironworkers, Hawaii Operating Engineers, International Longshoremen & Warehouse Union (ILWU), many individual business and union leaders, and many more not typed out here.

I appreciate those of you who recently sent me your donations and expressed your support of my campaign.  If you would like to contribute to my campaign, you can write your checks to Friends of Jon Riki Karamatsu and mail it to: P.O. Box 970146, Waipahu HI 96797.

Mahalo for your support!

Today, August, 13, 2008, I had a meeting regarding potential legislation on renewable energy.  We brainstormed on ideas for public/private partnerships for future renewable energy projects.

On Monday, August 11, 2008, I had a meeting regarding an up-coming beach restoration project for Waikiki beach.  I had a lunch meeting with another state representative.  I also had my bi-weekly Peace Day Hawaii Committee meeting.

On Tuesday, August 12, 2008, I had a Waikele Elementary School Community Council meeting.  That evening I attended the Hawaii Women’s Political Caucus meeting.  The caucus has recommended my candidacy for the Hawaii State House in the last couple of elections.

My younger sister Mia flew in from Loma Linda, California for my cousin Ryan Kaneshiro and Rebecca Pacheko’s wedding.  She is a pediatrician and studying for her fellowship in trauma care.  My family celebrated her belated birthday at Alan Wong’s Restaurant on Sunday.  That night she returned to California.  It is one of those few times, our family could all be together.

This morning I attended mass for the St. Paul’s Church, Episcopal and Philippine Independent Church at St. Andrew’s Chapel.  Senator Clarence Nishihara and I presented a certificate to the church for all the community work they have done in the Waipahu area, especially the adopt-a-highway clean-up program.  One of the sermons was about spending time with God.  I mentioned how I communicate to God, the teachers of compassion, and my ancestors in meditation in my quest to better myself.  I also thanked the church for spreading their love and compassion.  We presented the legislative certificate in front of their congregation.  I saw some familiar faces and talked with a couple of constituents.

Today, I participated in a forum with my political opponents at Local 5’s headquarters.

I also attended my cousin’s wedding.  I did the invocation.

On 08/08/08, Senator Nadao “Najo” Yoshinaga turned 89 years old.  I am grateful to have him as my friend and mentor.

WISHING YOU COMPASSION, HAPPINESS, AND PEACE – PART I

My Strategy to Heal Our Soul and Keep Our Lives Positive

Dear Friends:

            All the laws I create and all the monies I appropriate for our community are not complete if I know many people are still suffering because they are angry or sad.  Unfortunately, policies and funds can only reach so far for a good number of individuals.  I entered politics with hopes that I can play a role in bettering people’s lives.

            In the past, I have achieved goals and experienced happy times.  However, I have also made mistakes and experienced sad times.  After years of trying to find an answer to achieving a happy and fulfilling life, all my ideas and life experiences came together in the past two years, and I created a strategy to help myself in my personal struggles and in my quest to be compassionate, happy, and at peace.

Sometimes the pain we feel can be overbearing.  There are so many people who are impatient, angry, and full of hatred.  At the extreme, there are people who assault, rape, and murder.  All of these negative acts by individuals lead to suffering for everyone involved.  Many of us experience other types of suffering such as the death of a loved one, health challenges, loss of a job, financial difficulty, regret, insecurity, anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, divorce, or a broken heart.  At times, our worse enemy is ourselves.  We can be hard on ourselves and unsatisfied with our lives.  Therefore, I am sharing with you my strategy to keep our lives positive and happy despite all the negativity we face.

We can’t let the negative energy take the best of us.  We must strive to stay positive and achieve happiness and peace.  I dedicate this strategy to many of you who are going through tough challenges in life.  I am happy to share with you some of the things I do to keep my life tipped towards the positive.  It has helped me a lot, and I hope at least some of it may be helpful for you as well.  Although I may not know all of you personally, I want you to know that a little bit of my spirit is there with you.  I only wish the best for you and your family.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

State Representative

41^st District: Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu

My Strategy to Heal Our Soul and Keep Our Lives Positive

            I dedicate my strategy for those of you facing difficult challenges.  We get knocked down but we get back up again.  We can come back against negativity a hundred fold stronger and send out waves of positive influence that will help others facing challenges as well.  I list a thirty-one point strategy to heal our soul, mind, and body from negativity.  I hope at least some of my strategy is helpful for you.

            First, enjoy and appreciate your loved ones.  I love my family so much.  They have always been there for me through good times and bad.  I also have several close friends who I can seek advice or express myself.

            Second, music can uplift your spirit and inspire you.  Create a play list of songs to help you as you go through different situations in your life.

            Third, creative writing can be a nice way to release your emotions.  On the evening of October 11, 2006 and the morning of October 12, 2006, I couldn’t sleep, and I came up with a fictional story that I have been writing.  The story has tragedy, romance, spirituality, and a touch of politics.  When, I finish, I hope to share it with everyone.

            Fourth, paintings and drawings can be enjoyable.  In my state capitol office, I chose paintings that give me positive energy.  My favorite painting is a chair created by different shades of red by Tadashi Sato.

            Fifth, enjoy movies and television shows that make you happy or take you into the world of imagination.

            Sixth, meditation is a great way to clear your mind and relax your body.  You can do this sitting down or lying down.

            Seventh, meditate or pray to develop insight and wisdom through seeing the true nature of reality.  Reflect on yourself and look into how you can improve.  Fill your mind with positive thoughts and positive actions that you would like to do in the future.  Concentrate on potential negative situations, and how you can resolve these conflicts peacefully, or at least minimize the negative outcome.

Eighth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to yourself (your soul).  We need to heal and strengthen ourselves so we can spread positive energy to others.

            Ninth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to those who passed away such as your ancestors, loved ones, teachers of compassion, and others.

            Tenth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to your family, friends, teachers of compassion, and others.

            Eleventh, in meditation or prayer, send your love out to people you wronged or whose feelings you hurt.

            Twelfth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to your opponents and enemies.

            Thirteenth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to people you don’t know.

            Fourteenth, in meditation or prayer, send your love to people you don’t know who passed away.

            Fifteenth, enjoy the pleasures of nature such as the ocean, forest, mountains, clouds, blue sky, stars, moon, meteor showers, snow, rain, rainbow, rivers, ponds, lakes, and cherry blossom trees.

            Sixteenth, create a pleasant environment in or outside of your home such as plants, flowers, water displays, light displays, candles, or art.  In my second floor townhouse, I have a fifty five gallon tank that displays a beautiful Koi fish that has the colors white, black, red, and orange.  It is very soothing to watch ornamental fish in a beautiful tank.  If I ever bought a house with a yard, I would love to have a Japanese Zen garden.

            Seventeenth, pleasant aromas can help relax you such as candles, oils, plants, and flowers.

            Eighteenth, pamper your body by getting a massage or taking a nice hot bath.  In Japan, I tried their hot spring water baths (onsen) and it was very relaxing.

            Nineteenth, exercise helps you to counter negative energy by releasing endorphins that make you feel good.  An improvement in your physical appearance and good health can boost positive energy within you.  I like to lift weights and run.  It helps to relieve my stress and anxiety.

            Twentieth, participate in activities that you enjoy.  Not everything should be work.  Have fun as well!  Attend social events, join organizations, and play sports.

            Twenty-first, eat a well-balanced diet to keep your body and mind nourished.  I am tying to eat more vegetables, fruits, fiber, and lean meats.  I enjoy green tea, which has Vitamin C and antioxidants.

            Twenty-second, get enough sleep.  You need rest to replenish your energy, which you will need to be productive and positive.

            Twenty-third, it is great to just close your eyes and dream away.

            Twenty-fourth, write all your goals down.  Create short-term goals and long-term goals.  Reward yourself when you achieve your goals such as new clothes or a trip to Las Vegas depending on the difficulty of your goals.  Goals and rewards give you something to look forward to.  I strategize all the time for business, politics, community service, and my personal life.

            Twenty-fifth, understand that there is no such thing as failure.  The most important thing is that you tried your best.  You learn from everything you strive for.  With hard work, other opportunities may arise.  As the saying goes, “When one door closes, other doors may open.”

            Twenty-seventh, help others.  Small Acts of kindness can go a long way such as smiling or saying something nice to someone.  Support a loved one going through personal challenges.  Help those less fortunate or those facing physical or mental challenges.  Contribute to the world with an open and caring heart.

            Twenty-eighth, try to save others even if you can’t save yourself.  If everyone believed in this theory, one day when you need help, someone will be there to support you.

            Twenty-ninth, surround yourself with positive people that embody compassion, happiness, and peace.

            Thirtieth, train under an organization, a philosophy, a religion, or a spiritual healer that can help you in your quest to be compassionate, happy, and at peace.

            Thirty-first, even with all your efforts, your personal challenges may still be overbearing, thus, professional support can be helpful in such times.  Consult with a psychiatrist or psychologist. 

WISHING YOU COMPASSION, HAPPINESS, AND PEACE – PART II

Compassion Can Help Us Achieve Happiness, Personal Peace, and World Peace

Dear Friends:

            We can all play a role in making our community, country, and world more peaceful.  The practice of compassion can lead one to happiness, and the combination of compassion and happiness can ultimately lead you to be at peace within, the ultimate bliss.  Peace cannot exist without compassion and happiness.

            Therefore, we must strive to be compassionate instead of angry, happy instead of sad, and at peace rather than in turmoil.  We all face this struggle within us and there are many negative people that may never tip towards the positive.  I feel there is currently more negative energy than positive in the world.  People are more impatient, angry, and full of hatred, which only leads to suffering for everyone.  Negative people affect other people and it goes on and on with waves of negative impact and influence.

            On the other hand, when we practice compassion, we can impact and influence many people with waves and waves of positive energy.  Therefore, we must do all we can to counter negativity with compassion and tip the balance towards the positive.  I like to see it as taking negative energy and converting it to positive energy.

            Through the practice of compassion, we appreciate life and everything around us, and we are aware of the suffering around us.  The definition of happiness may change.  Even the simple pleasures become very important.  We become happy a majority of the time.  We may never be 100% compassionate and happy, but we must strive for this highest goal.  Only through our determination to reach this highest goal, will we become compassionate and happy for a great majority of the time, and as a result, many of us will understand the meaning of life, our surroundings, and finally, the answer to peace.  When a majority of us are compassionate, happy, and at peace, a majority of the world will be at peace.  In this chapter, I share with you the strategy I use to practice compassion as we strive to achieve happiness and peace.

With Warmest Aloha,

Jon Riki Karamatsu

State Representative

41^st District: Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu

Compassion Can Help Us Achieve Happiness, Personal Peace, and World Peace
           

In life, there is suffering, a cause to suffering, and a way to end or minimize our suffering.  I have made mistakes in my life, and I am trying hard to better myself using a strategy that can be practiced everyday.  This strategy is called “The Eightfold Path” or the strategy to end or minimize our suffering.  In school, sports, and work, we keep studying and training until we master our skills.  Likewise, in our lives, we must master our thoughts and actions to be compassionate instead of filled with anger and other negative emotions, and as a result, we will be able to be happy and ultimately achieve peace within, the ultimate bliss.  The answer to compassion, happiness, and peace is within each of us.  Thus, only through each of us, can we achieve world peace.  The strategy is as follows:

1.  Right View: Believe in the law of cause and effect and not to be deceived by appearances and bad desires.

2.  Right Thought: The resolution not to cherish bad desires, not to be greedy, not to be angry, and not to do any harmful deed.

3.  Right Speech: The avoidance of lying words, idle words, abusive words, and double tongues.

4.  Right Behavior: Not to destroy any life or steal.

5.  Right Livelihood: Avoid any life that would bring shame.

6.  Right Effort: Try to do one’s best diligently toward the right direction.

7.  Right Mindfulness: Maintain a pure and thoughtful mind.

8.  Right Concentration: Keep the mind right and tranquil for its concentration, seeking to realize the mind’s pure essence.

            I believe we can achieve compassion, happiness, and peace in our personal lives, and in my dream, I believe we and many others can strengthen the foundation built by our predecessors and influence a majority of the world to be peaceful long after we pass away.  Only together can we ensure the balance is tipped towards the positive.  I wish you and your loved ones only the best!

Achieving Peace

We can all play a role in making our community, country, and world more peaceful.  The practice of compassion can lead one to happiness, and ultimately to peace within, the ultimate bliss.  We must strive to be compassionate instead of angry, happy instead of sad, and at peace rather than in turmoil.  However, I feel frustrated at times because I realize that we are all facing this struggle within us, in addition to the possibility that we face billions of negative people that may never tip back to the positive.  I feel, there is currently more negative energy than positive in our world.  People are more impatient, angry, and hurtful, which only leads to suffering for everyone.  Negative people affect other people and it goes on and on with waves of negative impact and influence. 

On the other hand, when we practice compassion, we can impact many people with waves and waves of positive energy.  Therefore, we must do all we can to counter negativity with compassion and tip the balance towards the positive.  I like to see it as taking negative energy and converting it to positive energy.

Through compassion, we appreciate life and everything around us.  The definition of happiness may change.  Even the simple pleasures become very important.  We become happy a majority of the time.

We can never be 100% compassionate and happy, but we must strive for this highest goal.  Only through our determination to reach this highest goal, will we become compassionate and happy for a great majority of the time, and as a result, many of us will understand the meaning of life, our surroundings, and finally, the answer to peace.  When a majority of us are compassionate, happy, and at peace, a majority of the world will be at peace.

In the future, I will share with you my strategy to achieve compassion, happiness, and peace.

Peace Day Hawaii 2008 Event

Co-Chairs Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu & Ann Ishizu

Date: September 21, 2008

Time: 3:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.

Location: Hawaii Convention Center

Personally, not having Rep. Kirk Caldwell in the Hawaii State House of Representatives or politics is a big loss for the State of Hawaii.   I am really saddened with the result of his disqualification for the Honolulu City Council race, but I admire his strength and honor to not appeal the decision.  He is smart, full of positive energy, and just a great person.  When I served as Vice Speaker, I got much closer to him because he served as Majority Leader until present, and together we served on Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say’s leadership team.  Right before his disqualification for the Council race, he helped me lift my spirits.  I sincerely appreciate his friendship.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008, I attended the National Night Out 2008, Police-Community Partnerships from 5:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. at Waipahu Intermediate School.  The partners and sponsors were Target, City & County of Honolulu – Honolulu Police Department (HPD), HPD Community Policing, State of Hawaii – Office of Community Services, Waipahu Community Association, Weed & Seed (Honolulu, Waipahu, & Ewa), and Olelo.

I attended the annual Operating Engineers picnic held at Lanikohonua at Ko’olina.  I made a speech and had lunch.

I was interviewed by the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA).  Then I donated school supplies at the Family Fun Day at Waikele Outlet.  Lastly, I attended Ikaika’s wedding.

Senator Clarence Nishihara and I are starting a new show highlighting businesses and organizations in Waipahu on Olelo Television.  We are trying to promote public awareness of the good things in Waipahu and encourage customers and the greater community to support these wonderful ventures.  We also want to find ways the legislature can help our businesses and organizations.

Today I filmed with Senator Clarence Nishihara at the Waipahu Community Association (WCA) and the Waipahu Festival Market.  Henry Aquino of the WCA showed us around their office.  We interviewed him on the background of their new office and the festival market.  The Senator and I played a role in appropriating funds for this project.  The federal government and private sector contributed funds as well.  We interviewed many of the vendors at the festival market ranging from gifts, flowers, value-added food products, sushi, Filipino food, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and meats.  I will let you all know the airing dates of this show on Olelo Television in a future entry.  I hope it will give you an insight of some of the businesses at the Waipahu Festival Marketplace, and I encourage you to come and buy some of the products.

From July 22 to 27, I was in New orleans, Louisiana where I attended the annual National Conference of State Legislatures.  I attended meetings, caucuses, and met with other politicians and leaders from the business and non-profit sectors.  On the the first night there, I attended an organized dinner with the Hawaii delegation.  In the middle of the dinner, a government relations businessperson took me over to another dinner hosted by the National Capital Coalition for Capital to stop by, which I did not RSVP for.  I said “hello” to a young successful businessman I had become friends with over the years and a number of other businessmen and some politicians from other states.  They surprised me with an award, the “2008 Champion of Small Business” from the National Coalition for Capital.  I received the award and made a small speech.

It will probably be years before I complete my strategy for compassion, happiness, and peace.  However, I want to share at least some of it with you by August 8, 2008 or 08/08/08 because it is an auspicious day.  Hopefully, by sharing with you my positivity on this day, happiness will reach all of you.

I just got word that I got endorsed by several business and union organizations.  Also, since June 2008, I received several thousand of dollars from a number of donors.  The cost of campaigning has steadily gone up over the last six years.  I was hoping, I could reduce the amount of money I spend in an election, which is about $40,000 or more.  I really feel uncomfortable spending so much money.  Since there are a lot of potential challengers, it looks like I will spend a comparable amount of money to get my message out, therefore, I will keep up my effort to raise funds.

I am continuing my usual grassroots style of campaigning like I have done in the past.  I can afford to lose 5 to 10 pounds but not 15 to 20 pounds like I did in the last 3 elections.  This is the eighth time I have come to visit many of you.  I have walked over 45,000 homes over the last 5 1/2 years.  Mahalo for all your advice and comments.

I really appreciate your support.  If you would like to help my campaign, you can:

Volunteer: Email me at jonriki@gmail.com

Donate: Checks payable to Friends of Jon Riki Karamatsu and mail it to P.O. Box 970146, Waipahu, Hawaii 96797

Yesterday, I had a meeting with a couple of union leaders at the Ironworkers office.

I also met with a nice lady and her two nephews who are about to graduate high school.  She read about me in the newspapers and wanted me to help motivate her nephews.  I told the two boys about myself.  I shared how I got involved in sports, community, business, law, and politics.  Since everything I do is strategized and planned years in advance, I showed them my strategy book and calendar.  I explained how I came up with my strategy to better Hawaii when I was in college.  I also shared that life is full of ups and downs and challenges, thus, I gave them an advanced copy of my summarized strategy to achieve, compassion, happiness, and peace.  It was nice to see how much their aunty cared for them.  I wish many good things for them!

I attended many Filipino community events this year.  Some of the notable events were:

1.  Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii Legislative Listen – January 2008 at the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii;

2.  Hawaii State House of Representatives Filipino Caucus – About twice a month from January to May 2008;

3.  University of the Philippines Alumni Association Dinner – Early Spring 2008 at Hale Koa Hotel;

4.  I sponsored and presented the trophy to Ms. Terno Ball – Spring 2008 at Ala Moana Hotel;

5.  Greeted Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. and a Philippine Senator at Philippine Consul General Ariel Y. Abadilla’s residence – April 2008;

6.  Care Home Operators Meeting – Spring 2008 at Waipahu Intermediate School;

7.  United Filipino Council of Hawaii Golf Tournament – Spring 2008;

8.  Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii’s Filipino Entreprenuer of the Year and Scholarship Awards – April 5, 2008 at Hilton Hawaiian Village;

9.  I sponsored and presented the bouquet to United Filipino Council of Hawaii Mrs. Hawaii Filipina – June 2008;

10.  110th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence – Wednesday, June 11, 2008 at the Honolulu Country Club;

11.  Dedication of the Filipino House at the Children’s Discovery Center – May or June 2008?; and

12.  Filipino Chamber of Commerce’s 54th Annual Installation Banquet – Saturday, July 5, 2008 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

I attended the Waipahu Hongwanji Bon Dance.  I danced to the “Fukushima” song.  I thought of my grandma Karamatsu when I danced.  She used to dance with me and my sisters at the Jodo Shu bon dances.

Below is my speech for the Honolulu Central Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Festival of Religious Freedom.  I freestyled so I went a little off the written speech.

Aloha and good morning,

My name is Jon Riki Karamatsu and I am a State Representative from District 41, which comprises of Waikele, Royal Kunia, Village Park and Waipahu.  I am honored to be here today to participate in your Hawaii Festival of Religious Freedom.

Your festival gives everyone the opportunity to celebrate the importance of religious freedom, and to spread the aloha spirit, a spirit of hospitality and compassion.  A unity of all people of diverse backgrounds makes us stronger in our quest to better our world.

I want to thank your church for all the work you do to teach compassion.  I truly believe that compassion can lead one to happiness, and ultimately to peace within.  When a majority of the people are compassionate, happy, and peace, a majority of the world will be at peace.  That is how we can achieve world peace.

I have been a strong advocate for peace.  In the 2007 Legislative Session, my Peace Day Bill, House Bill 345 was signed into law as Act 023 by the Governor on April 18, 2007.  The law establishes September 21st annually as Peace Day in Hawaii to promote peace programs, improve international relations, and increase educational awareness of peace.  I was inspired to create this bill after being approached by the Hawaii Federation of Junior Young Buddhist Association members, who presented a similar resolution to their state council.  I chose September 21st because it was already designated as the International Day of Peace by the United Nations.  I am looking forward to celebrating our second Peace Day celebration on Sunday, September 21st and hope you will be able to participate in our celebration.

I would like to extend my best wishes and warmest aloha to all of you.  I hope you have a very successful and rewarding weekend.

Thank you.

Yesterday, I talked to a constituent in regards to the possibility of building a new school in our area.  She used to work in Duty Free Shoppers(DFS) in the customer relations department and knew my grandpa Maurice Karamatsu who was vice president of that department.

Not to long ago, I met one of the former DFS presidents who is now an Honorary Consul General for Denmark.  Another former DFS president attended one of my Peace Day Committee meetings in June 2008 and is now leading a non-profit corporation promoting peace.  They were all friends with my grandpa Maurice Karamatsu.

Today, from 10:00 A.M. on July 11, 2008, I attended the House Finance Committee and Senate Ways & Means Committee Hearing on the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation.

I had a lunch meeting with Rep. Ken Ito and a very visionary businessman in insurance, technology, and development.

Yesterday, in the afternoon of July 9, 2008, I also attended the Hawaii Lodging, Hospitality & Foodservice Expo at the Neil S. Blaisdell Center.  Every year I attend this expo to look for new products for my business or just to see what is the latest happenings in the industry.  There is another Douglas Trade Show that I attend that have more retail type products.

This morning, I welcomed the Waipahu Adult Education class to the Hawaii State Capitol.  I greeted them in the House chambers.  I talked about my background and legislation.

I made my biggest mistake in my life last year with my DUI.  I called the police, stayed by my car, and cooperated with the police when they arrived.  I really got blasted by the media and some individuals that remained anonymous.  The media made mistakes in their reporting, took my quotes out of context, quoted politicians against me without citing their names, and one reporter through a political insider tried to link the situation of my palm pilot that was stolen to my DUI incident, which didn’t make sense.  In politics and entertainment, everything is magnified and sensationalized by the media.  Opponents capitalize on any sign of weakness.  Dissappointed with myself, I resigned as Vice Speaker of the House with the blessing of Speaker Calvin K.Y. Say.  I still feel really bad about my mistake.  I have increased my reflection on myself.

Following my DUI incident, a number of high profile people got into DUI incidents such as television actor Daniel Dae Kim who helped me raise donations for the Sex Abuse Treatment Center, local entertainer Kimo Ka’ahoano who I met through mutual friends and we participate in many events, Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee John Waihe’e IV, a friend of mine who helped support my bill that became law supporting the Ni’ihau shell lei-makers, my colleague Senator Ron Menor who has helped me on a number of my legislation, especially in the area of renewable energy.  The only person I did not meet was playwriter Lisa Matsumoto who had done wonderful plays that lifted the spirits of our community.  Maybe if there was more time, I would have met her? 

I converted all the negative energy towards working on laws and appropriations for my community and state.  I passed five personal bills: 1. Protection of personal information by the government; 2. Harassment by impersonation; 3. $35 million in special purpose revenue bonds for Sopogy Inc. to build a solar farm on Oahu; 4. Requiring tow trucks to drop your car if you arrive on the scene; and 5.  $1 million for resort beach restoration that requires private sector matching funds.  I also got appropriations for my community that were not released by the governor, re-authorized in the budget bill.  I worked on two constitutional mandates that has not been resolved since 1978.  We came close to defining the 20% revenue from ceded lands.  Most importantly, we triggered the process in identifying important agricultural lands.

I reflect back to May 29, 2005.  I was feeling disenchanted with politics after getting worn down by several House chairs and a couple of senators who lost their temper.  I was also exhausted with the power jockeying of the dissidents in the House who were in control of the three most powerful committees at the time.  Financial and personal stresses were on my shoulders as well.  Finally, people that were negative really drained me further.  I was at a nice gathering with my friends John Waihe’e IV and Jennifer Waihe’e at their parents’ house.  Late in the evening, Governor John Waihe’e came in to greet everyone.  My friend Brandon and I had a nice talk with the governor until about 3:00 A.M. in the morning.  He said things that really re-inspired me to keep working hard for my community, Hawaii, and my country. 

Fast forward to the early morning of July 9, 2008.  I was looking forward to the groundbreaking of Sopogy Inc.’s groundbreaking of their solar farm.  I helped them by authoring a $10 million special purpose revenue bond bill that can be used in building their solar farm.  I was pleasantly surprised to see Governor George R. Ariyoshi at the airport with Darren Kimura, President and CEO of Sopogy Inc.  I have met the governor numerous times.  My mom told me that when I was a toddler, I was playing with a toy at a hotel and it rolled in front of Governor Ariyoshi and I ran to grab it, stopping the governor in his tracks.  In 1997, I went to get the governor’s book and his signature at a book signing at a bookstore at Ala Moana Shopping Center.  He signed it and stated that my grandfather Maurice Karamatsu was a good friend of his.  As a politician, I have seen the governor many times a year.  I also became friends with his son Ryozo soon after I got elected, after meeting him at the Consul General of Japan’s residence for an event celebrating the Emperor of Japan’s birthday.

Talking with Governor R. Ariyoshi really inspired me.  I am so impressed with his career as a World War II veteran in the military intelligence service, State Senator, Lt. Governor, Governor, attorney, president of the East West Center, and businessman in banking, gas, real estate development and investment, and consulting.  Recently, he has done business in computer data management, health products, and medical research just to name a few.  He has done so much for the state in government and business.  I told the governor, “You should write another book, part II.”  He laughed.  By 2009, the 50th anniversary of Hawaii’s statehood, he hopes to write his vision for Hawaii for the next 50 years in hopes that he can inspire the youngest generation.

Governor Ariyoshi is probably the most diverse leader I have met so far.  He has made a positive impact on everything, politics, business, and community.  He told Darren and I, entrepreneurs don’t reach their goals in a straight line.  There are many failures.  Those that succeed, reach their goals in zig zag lines.  He motioned his hand in a zig zag manner.  We learn from our mistakes and we find a way to reach our goals.

Governor Ariyoshi told me a children’s story printed in an elementary school book in Japan.  There was a boy and his friends that would often walk pass this house where the dog would always bark at them.  One day, his friends started throwing rocks at the dog.  The boy stopped his friends and told them that the dog is only making a warning of their presence.   “That boy was me,” he said.  “Kindness,” the governor stated with a smile.  Reading between the lines, I wanted to believe that the governor was talking to me.  Some people bark because it is in their nature.  I have to do my best to be kind to even those barking at me.

Waiting at the Kona airport on our way back to Honolulu, Governor George R. Ariyoshi mentioned his opponents and how they attacked him.  “I didn’t respond,” he said, “It (the attacks) disappears.”

Tonight, Maureen Andrade, President of the Village Park Association did a wonderful job in coordinating a presentation on the mass transit system.  The meeting was very informative.  It was nice talking with a number of the residents in our community.  Also, one of the presenters also participated in Peace Day Hawaii 2007.