Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 17, Number 10, 1 October 2000 — CANDIDATES [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]
CANDIDATES
^ na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 torum are of the individual -| CdndiCldtGS R U fl H \ H Q Af-|drQG candidates and do not necessarily retlect wfc" ■ V" vv*ww ■ J J I those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. 1 SEAT r 4 - Y E A R TERM 1 ;
Kaui Jochanan Amsterdam
Heretofore, our plight as Hawaiians has been treated as a loeal issue. Such loealization is evident when being in the mainland or abroad. Such treatment has been continued since the conspiratorial break-in- of the Hawaiian Nation in 1893 and whieh I elaborate on in my book, The Royal Crown of the Hawaiian Kingdom and the Catastrophe. Rather than stagnate in the status quo, we must raise and broaden our vision and accelerate our efforts of restoration and renewal. I, Kaui Jochanan Amsterdam, pledge my efforts to do this as OHA trustee at-large and ask your support and vote(s). My efforts are assisted by my multi-cultural background, experience and preparation. While coming from a traditional Hawaiian family, I am a Native America Hawaiian Jew Mormon with a multi-cultural perspective, whieh I have used in service of our Hawaiians and human
family. Likewise, I have lived, worked and served in Hawai'i, America, Europe and the Middle East, particularly Israel. Having assisted in the mainland with recruitment of minorities including Native Americans, Mexican Americans or Latinos, and Afro-Americans, I understand minority issues, needs and interests and ean meet and resolve them. Compared to these minorities, I have seen that Hawaiians have been left far behind in the race for equal opportunity in legal rights, educational and employment advancement, and social improvement. In addition to continuing to advance present appropriate efforts, my efforts will include advancing legal assistance for Hawaiians with legal problems instead of the Hawaiian Legal Corporation's present exclusive attention to land issues. Likewise, I shall expand educational and employment opportunities and scrutinize discrimination in these areas. I shall also pursue claims
made by Hawaiians of discrimination. Likewise, I shall examine and improve conditions for Hawaiians in prison and treat the causes for their imprisonment. Likewise, I shall meet cultural needs, attend to and elevate social conditions, and expand international relations. Importantly, all the while, I shall advance our Hawaiian restoration and renewal. 1 shall work with those who are diligently working for our urgent and important restoration and renewal of whieh those following the issues know of my perspective and efforts. We must not wait, we must accelerate. Accordingly, I, Kaui Jochanan Amsterdam, ask for your support to bear the fruits of our labors. Likewise, my efforts are accelerated by my relatively extensive educational background graduating from UCLA and being educated at universities in Europe and the Holy Land. Amidst smiles and Hawai'i's paradise, I experienced the painful wounds of
Hawaiian poverty, discrimination, poor health, low self-esteem and identity, and hopelessness. These cancers sink deep, but only superficial band aid treatments applied. I ask your support to use my education in OHA to urgently resolve these eancerous conditions, suffering and losses. No business as usual. We mustn't wait, but must accelerate. I, Kaui Jochanan Amsterdam, ask for your support and votes to serve as OHA trustee at-large for only one term to use my background knowledge, and education to meet Hawaiian living, developmental, cultural, educational, legal and socio-economic needs, to advance Hawaiian restoration and renewal, and to assist as the prophet Isaiah said: "That the Lord shall set his hand the second time to recover (restore) the remnant of his people, whieh shall be left, from the islands of the sea. Aloha.
Haunani Apoliona
On Nov. 5, 1996, OHA elections for trustee seats for Hawai'i, Kaua'i/Ni'ihau, Moloka'i/Lāna'i and one at-large for the term 1996-2000 occurred. I won the at-large four-year term with 26,757 votes, 51 percent of the votes cast. As my four-year term ends, I seek the support of those 26,757 voters AND MORE to re-elect me to a second four-year term as trustee at-large, serving from 2000-2004. In 1996, my decades of service to Hawaiians and for Hawai'i in collaboration with ali'i trusts and specifically with ALU LIKE ine. between 1978 and 1996, provided voter confidence of my readiness to serve as fiduciary and policy-maker at OHA. Prior to taking my oath of office, though not required by law, I resigned my position of ALU LIKE President/CEO, in my judgement a prudent, responsible and ethical course to take, even though my salary was immediately reduced by 50 percent. I believe I have upheld my oath of office and have served in the trustee at-large position (four-year
term, 1996-2000) with dedication and competence. In these four years, external to OHA, I have been re-appointed as community advisor to the Bureau of the Census serving as the Chair of the Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander REAC Advisory Committee. Since May, as one of 15 commissioners appointed to the President's Advisory Commission on Asian American and Pacific Islanders, I serve as co-chair subcommittee on Pacific Islander. My service continues on the Bank of Hawai'i, Queen Emma Foundation Boards and Queen Lili 'uokalani Children's Center Advisory Council. At OHA, I served as Board of Trustees vice chairperson, vice-chair and chair of the Legislative and Government Affairs Committee, member and chair of the Program Management Committee, member of the Policy and Planning Committee, and member, vice-chair and chair of the Budget and Finance Committee. As chair of the Budget and Finance Committee, the B&F trustee members
together, with OHA's investment consultant MSDW, ensured the BOT hired international investment money managers to comply with previously BOT-approved OHA investment policy and terminated a long-contracted OHA money manager that transacted and traded outside their OHA money manager contract guidelines, and under performed for the Native Hawaiian trust. Despite the political manipulations and deceptions that were employed in an effort to derail "implementing actions" following the board vote, the international money managers are hired and the under performing, non-compliant money manager no longer manages the OHA millions. These are results in six months as B&F chair. Continuing B&F work includes: management of trust assets in consultation with OHA's investment consultant MSDW; termination of the practice of the board and administration engaging in "evergreen clauses" in contracts with OHA board attorney extending payment for services beyond a date or specific time; updating contractual
obligations for the OHA custodian; ensuring OHA's biennium budget 2001-2003 gets review and input by beneficiaries statewide, in eaeh county, as is required by Hawai'i Revised Statutes; and ensuring OHA's state legislamre report in 2001 is a tmthful, accurate and complete accounting for the use of the general funds and Public Land Tmst match funds. Trustee tasks for the next BOT include B&F and P&P committees ensuring timely review of the OHA administrator whose contract ends in June 2001; calling for the Hawai'i State Supreme Court to render a decision on the Heely matters; and holding the state accountable to fulfill statutory obligations of revenue payments tō the Tmst. I ask foryour vote for support to return me, Haunani Apoliona, to the four-year term as trustee at-large. I will continue to pursue an ethical, no-nonsense approach in doing business, to better the conditions of native Hawaiians and Hawaiians.
Dante Keala Carpenter
Dante Keala Carpenter was born in Honolulu, Hawai'i, attended Kamehameha Schools, and graduated from Roosevelt High School. A United States Merchant Marine Academy (Kings Point, New York) graduate, Carpenter received his B.S. degree in marine-mechanical engineering, a U.S. Coast Guard license as a marine engineer (steam & motor vessels), and a commission in the United States Naval Reserve. Carpenter is a veteran whose
military service career includes active duty with the Atlantic fleet in 1 95758, reserve duties aboard Navy destroyers and shipyard facilities operations primarily at Pearl Harbor and San Diego. He has also served as commanding officer of several Naval Reserve Units in Hawaii as well as Hawai'i Island liaison for a Seabee Constmction Battalion Unit. In 1984. Carpenter retired as a Navy officer with the rank of Lieutenant Commander (LCDR).
Carpenter retired from C. Brewer & Company with 25 years of service as a process and projects engineer in Hilo and Ka'ū on the Island of Hawai'i, a senior designer engineer in overseas sugar operation, and director of public affairs. Carpenter has also served 1 8 years in elective office. From 1968 to 1976 Carpenter served two terms as a Hawai'i County Councilman; from 1978 through 1984 two terms as a Hawai'i State Senator (serving as the
chair for the Heahh and Judiciary Committees), and as mayor of Hawai'i County for four years from 1984 through 1988. As the Office of Hawaiian Affairs administrator from 1994-1995, Carpenter was instrumental in creating and implementing the administrative community meetings taking OHA's budgets to the community. He also was responsible for the passage of OHA's Special Revenue Bond law enabling OHA
ELECTIOM
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 Candidates Running At-large T SEAT 4 - Y E A R TERM
Dante Keala Carpenter (continued)
> to raise funds for special projects like ihe University of Hawaii. During his tenure, Carpenter oversaw the grant that enabled 'Aha Pūnana Leo to purchase the Keanau property for a Hawaiian immersion school. Carpenter is an experienced administrator, budget and financial planner and policy-maker. His experiences have given him a well-rounded community perspective and understanding of political sensitivities in our state today. Carpenter has been active in the community for over 35 years. Presently, he is an elected delegate to the 'Aha Hawai'i 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian Convention) committed to «- Hawaiians selecting their ehoiee of
sovereignty. He is also the president of his apartment owner's association consisting of 439 unit-s and a member of the Civilian Advisory Group (U.S. Army). Carpenter was a founding president of the Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka'ū and president of the Ka'u Historical Society. He has been a Lion, a Kiwanis, a member of the American Public Works Association, the Hawaiian Sugar Technologists, the Society of Professional Engineers (Hawaii chapter) and the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce. Carpenter serves as president of Carpenter & Carpenter, ine. a planning, engineering, promotions and legislative consulting firm and as
a director of the Board of Pacific Waste, ine., a refuse collection eompany on the Island of Hawaii. Carpenter has been married for 42 years to Olan Peltier. They have four children and eleven grandchildren. Carpenter is a candidate for OHA because he: • Is committed to helping Hawaii and Hawaiians • Is concerned with the future of OHA, • Wants to ensure that OHA's operations and funding reach all beneficiaries, and • Wants to continue reaching out to the community as he did while
OHA's administrator. Carpenter believes that: • If individuals are physically, mentally and socially strong, then the family will be strong. • OHA should concentrate on delivering services that fill gaps (not provided by other government or private entities). • OHA should generate money from its portfolio to fund needed services. • OHA should develop support programs for kupuna and keiki. • Hawaii needs to preserve its host culture.
Kauila Clark
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? I believe I have the ability, experienee and decision making leadership to set positive policies for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to provide programs and assistance for the betterment of the Native Hawaiians. I believe I have a clear understanding of the contemporary situations and possible solutions to the problems facing Native Hawaiians. These situations and solutions are in health, elderly care, housing, employment, training, education, access to information and the rehabilitation of the Native Hawaiians. I want to serve the Native Hawaiian community by giving back for all the fortune, success and experiences I have had in life. What qualities would vou bring to the position? The qualities I would bring to the office of Hawaiian Affairs are in education, experience, and developing successful policies for programs in health, education, employment, training, eeonomie development and rehabilitation for Native Hawaiians. I
also have an understanding of the organizational strueture and function. I have served on many boards of directors for different organizations, and I have a clear understanding of the different functions and purposes of an organization structure. I have the ability to make wise and successful decisions, be able to negotiate issues in a positive light and I believe my greatest quality is understanding and practicing the basic principles of Hawaiian culture in contemporary society. The overriding core of Hawaiian principles is aloha. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The most important issue facing OHA is the betterment of the Native Hawaiians. OHA has not addressed this issue in a way that Native Hawaiians feel they have been served and seen an improvement in the quality of their lives. The betterment of Native Hawaiians is a quality of life issue. Components of this issue are in health, caring for the kupuna, support in education, adequate and appropriate housing, adequate employ-
ment, diverse training, and access to information. Culturally positive programs are needed in drug, aleohol and incarceration rehabilitation. There are other issues facing Native Hawaiians that have to be addressed. Theses are the ceded lands designation and cash settlements, reparations for past abuses of the land trust, and seeking political status with the United States of America as a stop-gap measure to self-determina-tion. The Native Hawaiian must decide their own destiny on whether to be a nation-within-a-nation or and independent nalion. There is an internal issue OHA must face and that is the inordinate ratio of administrative cost to program cost in OHA. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? In these times of need, Native Hawaiian need positive support prograrris to address needs. This is for the betterment of Native Hawaiians. The financial portfolio needs to be divested to develop and implement support programs now. The appropriate employment, career training, adequate housing and access to infor-
mation. There is a large portion of the population that needs rehabilitation in incarceration, drug and aleohol and other drug treatments. OHA has the financial means to provide programs to effect the masses of only they use the funds wisely. The most important resource Hawaiians have is our people. Unless we develop the potential of our human resources, we will be forever lost. There should be a good balance between money in the finaneial portfolio and the support provided for the betterment of the people. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? To establish lōkahi on the board of trustees at the Office of Hawaiian Affair and re-establish aloha in the Hawaiian community by providing adequate and appropriate programS in health, elderly care, education, housing, training, employment, rehabilitation programs and access to information for the betterment of Native Hawaiians.
Ken Conklin
KEN eONKLIN ko'u 1 1 inoa. He haole malihini au. Akā, nui ko'u aloha i ka po'e kanaka Hawai'i a me ko lākou nohona, 'uhane, a 'ōlelo. You there, reading this newspaper. What has OHA done for you? Are you happy with OHA? Vote for change. Vote for CONKLIN. Honest. Independent. No favoritism. Can't read m.y first paragraph? OHA should help you. Hawai'i stands at a crossroads. Shall we focus on what brings us together? Or rip ourselves apart along racial and ethnic lines? OHA trustees spent big bucks for TV, radio, and newspaper ads and
lobbying to support the Akaka Bill that would permanently divide us racially. One of your trustees travels to meetings asking the U.N. to force U.S. out of Hawai'i; then she supports the Akaka bill to make you wards of the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs; then she viciously attacks Senator Inouye, who is working hard to pass that bill. Go figure! Should OHA money be spent on political lobbying, and ads that do nothing but praise OHA? How about $500,000 spent losing to Freddy Rice? How about that glitzy cocktail party in Washington, D.C.? It looks like half the money OHA spends goes for overhead, staff salaries, consul-
tants, lawyers, advertising, lobbying, etc. Nobody knows for sure, because budget figures stay secret. Remember that brief one-eolumn vague listing of OHA's budget in the monthly newspapfer? Even that has been missing for three months now. A few months ago OHA had $400 million in bank accounts and New York brokerage houses. If that money were in a bank CD at 7 percent it would yield $28 million per year. But OHA spends only about half that mueh eaeh year, including legislative appropriations (and remember, half of what OHA does spend benefits nobody except the trustees and the image of OHA). OHA is accumulat-
ing weahh, even while needy people get no help. What does OHA plan to do with all that money? Let's bring that money back to Hawai'i and use it to help people here. OHA cannot continue spending on racially exclusionary programs. It is unconstitutional to do that. OHA ean spend millions to fight and lose, or move forward to develop programs that focus on the special needs of Hawaiians while welcoming participation from thousands of non-Hawai-ians eager to help. , I will spend big bucks for equipment and expertise to support restoration of sustainable agriculture in taro, fishponds, etc. Let's restore and
r — ; — CANDIDATE5
WMIEHMnīEĒīIiEi^^^^^lOlelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
I Candidates Running At-large SEAT f 4-YE AR TERM _ "
Ken Oonklin (continued)
ppurchase heiau and other sacred or historic places. Every child and adult who wants to study Hawaiian language should be able to do so at no cost. Intelligent, hardworking children attending specific public schools that aren't working right should be given scholarships to attend better schools. These programs are focused on Hawaiians. Most participants would
probably be Hawaiian. But the fact that all persons regardless of race ean benefit and participate makes these programs constitutional. Best of all, programs like these would bring us together in a spirit of aloha. Hawaiian culture and language are treasures whieh all the people of Hawai'i respect and support. I have a master's degree in mathematics, and a Ph.D. in philosophy.
That means I ean understand complex problems, figure out solutions, and explain things clearly. As a professor, I taught teachers and school administrators; and was a high school math teacher for 17 years. I understand how people learn and how schools operate; and I will use that expertise to establish programs to help keiki, makua, and kupuna. Please vote for CONKLIN for
OHA trustee. Want more info? Visit my website: www.angelfire.com /hi2/hawaiiansovereignty On Nov. 7, all Hawai'i registered voters ean vote for OHA trustees, without racial restrictions. Please vote for Oonklin, Kenneth R. for OHA trustee. For further information see http ://w ww. angelfire.com/hi2/hawaiiansovereignty
Wave Ha'upu
Iam running for the at-large trustee seat. I would like to run for OHA because I think this is an exciting time for the people of Hawai'i and her native children. The existence of OHA is due to the fact that the citizens of Hawai'i felt there were issues concerning Native Hawaiians that needed to be addressed. We are at a pivotal point in Hawaiian history that provides an opportunity to address and resolve issues concerning the people of Hawai'i. We need due diligence on the issues, cooperation to resolve those issues and accountability to all of Hawai'i's
citizens. I offer these qualities as a trustee and would like the opportunity to work for the betterment of the state of Hawai'i and all her citizens. The most important issues facing the indigenous peoples of Hawai'i are their basic needs. These needs include adequate housing, sufficient food supply, medical care, high technology education, and gainful employment. Although there are a lot of programs offering opportunity, very few serve a large population. We need to provide opportunities for success and advancement of the Hawaiian language, culture, expression and ALOHA. The promotion of
Hawanana will not only restore self-respect and determination to our indigenous population, but will also increase tourist interest, spending and enjoyment. One goal I would direct my efforts to would be to provide hālau, open school houses, at beaches, parks, homesteads and public schools, so that our kumu could concentrate on passing down the arts of Hawaiian instead of worrying about paying rents and soliciting space. We need to instill in our keiki a pride in our aina and themselves, involvement with ohana and avoidance of drugs, sex and violence.
I know we ean all work together for what is right and what is best for both the people and land of Hawai'i nei. I ask for your vote on November 7th so the move forward to better things ean proceed. Mahalo and Aloha Nui, Wave[rlyn] Makawailani Hā'upu
Linda Ka'auwai-lwamoio
Aloha! My name is Linda Ka'auwai-Iwamoto, seeking a position as a trustee in the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA). A 1 960 graduate of Kapa'a High & Elementary School, I was fortunate to have had an excellent education under the direction of the former principal, Gladys Ainoa Brandt. I continued my education on O'ahu at the Cannon's Business College, University of Hawai'i, Mānoa campus, and the Kaua'i Community College. The youngest of 16 children, my parent's were Isaiah 'Kaluna' Ka'auwai, Jr. (Papa), and Daisy Mary Contrades (Mama). Papa's 'ohana, the Ka'auwais, eame from Makawao/Olowalu, Maui; his mother, the Kaulia 'ohana, eame from Wai'ōhinu, Ka'ū, Hawai 'i. Papa's 'ohana were ministers, territorial representatives, assistant and Supreme Court judges, and one of seven Land Board Commissioners involved in the writing of 'The Great Mahele'. His
unele, James Kaulia, was one of two historians who traveled Hawai'i to obtain the thousands of signatures (Kū'ē Petition) in hopes of preventing the annexation of Hawai'i to the United States. His aunt, Elizabeth Kahanu Ka'auwai, was the wife of the late Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana'ole. Mama's 'ohana, the Contrades', eame from Mexico. Her mother, Rose Papoko 'ohana, eame from Kailua, O'ahu, and her mother, Mary Kapahulehua, eame from Ni'ihau and Waimea, Kaua'i. I have been employed with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) since 1970, this my 30th and final year. My employment started as a typist, acting district manager to the department's neighbor island branches, acting applications branch supervisor, to my present position as a Homestead assistant. These positions worked directly with the applicant's and lessee's of the department on a one on one contact. Working with
DHHL is coming to a close and it has been an incredible experience for me. I would like to continue working with the Hawaiian community and in another capacity by seeking the seat for trustee with OHA. When elected as your trustee, I will represent you with my utmost attention and heartfelt care. For your benefit and mine, the trustees must investigate and recommend a change to the Native Hawaiian blood quantum to "Hawaiian Koko". They must make this the trustees top and foremost priority. We ean do it, my fellow Hawaiians. You ean do it by being a registered voter (deadline is October 9th) and you must vote. This is your home, this is your land, you must wake up and be counted. You can't allow the nonHawaiian to make your decisions and to speak for you, vote, make your voice count. We ean make the impossible possible; change the negative to positive.
The trustees ean work with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) by: (1) approve the financing of additional kupuna housing; (2) look into the financing to construct dorms on lands owned by DHHL for Hawaiian students seeking higher education; (3) open a sperm bank for Hawaiians from Hawaiians to increase its population; (4) request lands for burials on DHHL properties on eaeh island and district for our 'ohana, etc. If you have constructive ideas, let us know. If you feel the trustees are fulfilling their obligations to you, let us know. We will be representing you in all facts and decisions. There are many issues and ideas that ean be presented to the trustees for consideration and approval. Let us know what we ean do for you. Mahalo and God bless us all!
Craig (Bo) Kahui
Born a Native Hawaiian, recent events surrounding our Hawaiian rights and entitlements reminded me of the many years ago how I was first got involved in the Hawaiian movement. In 1977, following an honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy, I found
myself angered by many land issues (Sand Island, Hālawa Valley, et.c) and was compelled to do something. During this time at the height of the Hawaiian musical renaissance, I joined the Protect Kaho'olawe 'ohana (PKO) to stop the military bombing of the island and in a short
time became a central organizer reclaiming the island of Kaho'olawe for the Hawaiian people. Many felt our efforts were a waste of time having to struggle against the powerful U.S. Military industrial complex. But perseverance and determination by many finally lead to the return of
Kaho'olawe to the State of Hawai'i in 1995. While organizing in the PKO, I attended Honolulu Community College and was elected president of the Student Association before receiving my associates degree in the arts in 1978. 1 continued my education
ELECTIDN2D0D
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak ddlIdJJMdBdHhUM
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 Candidates Running At-large j S E AT f " 4 - Y E A R T E R M
Craig (Bo) Kahui (continued)
> at University of Hawaii at Mānoa and University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Mass., and received my Bachelors Degree in 1983 from UH Mānoa in political science. While at UH Mānoa, under the guidance of Unele Harry Mitchell, we started the wet land lo'i (taro patch) on campus next to the Hawaiian Studies building on Dole St. This project heeame a eultural laboratory for students of all ages and visitors from the state and around world. In 1984 I married and started a family. Typically, both my wife, Melissa, and I had to work to make ends meet. I worked in the hospitality industry as a food and beverage manager. In 1990, we moved to the island of Hawai'i. Since then, our family has grown to 4; 3 boys and 1 girl. The Big Island has offered new challenges. I
worked as a substitute teacher, parttime commercial fisherman, and started my own business in landscaping, maintenance, and home repair. I've been in business now for 9 years. Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? Angered by The Rice Decision and recent attacks on Hawaiian entitlements, I felt compelled to run for OHA to serve and protect our Hawaiian trusts and to restore the beneficiaries confidence in OHA to further its goals politically, economically, socially and culturally for the betterment of the Hawaiian people. What qualities would you bring to the position? My business, educational and eommuni-
ty networking background and experiences are skills most needed and desired on the OHA board in pursuit of its immediate and long range goals. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The most important issues facing OHA and Hawaiians are a) Rice vs. Cayetano decision and the continued threats against Hawaiian entitlements. b) Hawaiian Sovereignty/ Independence. c)Hawaiian Trusts - Ceded Lands, Hawaiian Homes Lands and Kamehameha Schools etc. d) Housing. e) Heahh As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? As an OHA trustee, I will play an
active role in the preservation of our Hawaiian trusts and entitlements by seeking Federal and Global recognition and redress to the fullest extent possible that will allow Hawaiians to govern our own affairs. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? The most important immediate goal facing beneficiaries are housing and health services. OHA Board must establish agencies to provide housing fmancing with low interest loans and health insurance for the kupuna and the uninsured or underinsured. The most significant political goal for OHA is the recognition of a Hawaiian sovereign entity.
V. Halemano Kalua • i
Education: McKinley High School. University of Hawai'i at Mānoa Grad. 1988 B.A. and Graduate School, Communication. Married to Robert N. Kalua 26 Years. Three children: Renee Haunani Nu'uanu Keawe-Aiko, Cheyenne Scott Kaleikau Aiko (Annie), Kalae Solomon Puaokailima Aiko (Deanna) Total of eight grandchildren. Experiences: Represented Hawai'i at National Conferences for Head Start, Community Action Programs; President,
Parent & Child Center; President, Linapuni Elementary School P.T.A.; President, McKinley High School Football Boosters Club; Paralegal Supervisor, Legal Aid Society of Hawai'i; Mō'iwahine, Aloha Week Festivals 1980 (traveled to London, England representing King Kālākaua and Queen Kapi'olani's trip in 1881); member Recreation and Parks Association, Hawai'i: member Kalihi-Pāla-ma Hawaiian Civic Club; member, Ka Ma Kua Mau Loa Church; Mt. View Elementary School P.T.A.;. member; Panaewa Community Association member; Hawaiiana Specialist, City and county of Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation.
Present employment: Instructor, Hawaiian Studies, Elderhostel Program, Lyman Museum, Hilo, Hawai'i. Kumu Hula, Halau Hula Nā Pua Pīkake, Hilo, Kona, and Honolulu. Interests and ideas for OHA: Vigorously pursue voter registration throughout the state and follow-up by providing transportation on Election Day. Give half of one percent of the budget to feed the Hawaiian hungry and assist the Hawaiian homeless. Provide mobile clinics in medical and dental needs to the Hawaiian communities.
Provide mobile pre-school classes and senior citizen educational programs to the Hawaiian communities. Teach interested families to become daycare providers to children and the elderly in the community, as an income-generating project for the Hawaiians. Monitor job training opportunities that are now being offered to the Hawaiian community. Make sure that they are being utilized properly. Have better communication regarding OHA finances to the Hawaiian community and the community at Iarge.
Peter Kama
Peter Kama is Hawaiian. Raised in Waimea, Kaua'i. Lives in Waimānalo. A graduate of Kamehameha schools 1953. Drafted into the Army in 1954. Served in Vietnam four tours, retired as lieutenant eolonel in 1975. Board member and president of Waimānalo Health Center, board member and past president of Hui Kāko'o 'Āina Ho'opulapula prepresenting applicants to Hawaiian Homelands. Active I I
with 01d Soldiers Reunion and Kamehameha Schools Alumni. Priorities included health, housing, education eeomonime development and senior citizens. Propsed plan: • To work diligently and with respect with other members of the board addressing the issues of the Hawaiain community.
• To work in unifying the ali'i trusts, Hawaiian Homelands and OHA to better collaborate the services to all Hawaiians. • To develop and implement a shareholders progam to enrich the lives all Hawaiians by setting asided a principal of funds that would be able to raise interest and participation of native Hawaiians.
• To seek fair and just restitution on both the state and federal government levels. lnternational recognition is good, however, only the state and federal governments have the power to support the changes. ♦ To continue working in the re-establishment of the sovereign government.
CANDIDATES
ma na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak j
The vlews and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individuai candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 I Candidates Running At-large T SEAT 4-YEAR T E R M *
Jay Jay Kapele
Why do I want to be an OHA Trustee? I'm not satisfied with the aeeomplishments of the board(s) of trustees. I feel they have furthered the separation of our people of Hawai'i and have caused us to lose dignity. OHA has had a 20-year opportunity to unite, expand and clarify the culture of Hawai'i. It appears to have failed. I want to redirect this organization towards inclusion and dignity. The bloodline of Hawai'i's indigenous people has given us the unique identity and a kingdom unto itself. Our entire society has been fed misinformation on both the Hawai'i and national levels of government. My intent is to heal the wound inflicted upon the spirit of our people and our government nearly 108 years ago. I ean see the healing path and the intelligent struggle it will take to restore Hawai'i to its greatness, inelusive of its multi-ethnic traditions and peoples. What qualities would I bring to the position?
Fairness, honesty, compassion, listening ears, a happy spirit and vision. I offer my dedication to hard work and intense focus on the mission on behalf of the people. My heart is for all of our people, regardless that some of our people are unlikable, very selfish or don't have an ounee of the aloha spirit. I bring fairness and must include them as beneficiaries too. I bring my irritating habit of questioning everything. I bring my insistence and persistence to the proper use of words and what they mean and the affect and effectiveness in the use of those words. I bring eommon sen.se and high expectations and eonsideration for everyone. I bring the solution. What do I consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian People? We must undo certain actions and legal actions of this and previous 'boards of trustees.' Some must be redefined and others repealed and omitted. This must be done, not by whitewashing who we are but by actually changing and redefining really, "what we are to become."
Create an organization that integrates and encourages all individual sovereignty movement groups, cultural and community organizations to join together in one unified political, environmental and community voice. (See: The Hawai'i United Front.) We must force the recognition of the Hawaiian kingdom. It remains in plaee and politically intact. Stop trying to create another 'new' one. We must educate and re-educate our entire people, certainly and especially those of indigenous lineage. Recognition of our kingdom must first be made by 'we the people' of Hawai'i. Upon that, it will and must simultaneously be recognized by the Federal Government of the U.S. and the international polkieal body. lnstigate a Council of Indigenous Hawai'i Affairs. PIt shall hold autonomous status under the identity of the Hawaiian kingdom. It shall receive all financial restitution (through the State of Hawai'i) from the Federal Government of the U.S. whose center of government resides in Washington, D.C. (not to be eonfused with these 50 United States, allied under the constitution). With these changes in plaee, OHA
would then serve only as a yoke, a * mediator, "A Trustee" between the 'step-father' government and the true heir to this land and its people, the Hawaiian kingdom. We ean then, "■ form allianee along side these 49 States of America and its constitution, strengthen our diversity while keeping a healthy international relationship with the U.S. and governments of the world. But we will remain our 'own govemment.' As an OHA trustee, how would I resolve those concerns? Educate and re-educate ourselves and the people of Hawai'i. Present a plan that is inclusive and positive. „ Draft and redraft and not let deadlines dictate our actions. Let wisdom, patience and eommon sense guide us. Always include the voice of the people. If I could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Undo all of the negative actions done by our past and recent trustees. Thank you. *
Brian Akana Lee
Aloha, my name is Brian Akana Lee. I'm Hawaiian/ Chinese, bom and raised in upper Kamehameha Heights. I'm running for the position of OHA trustee for all the Hawaiians that have not received a penny from OHA. (My dad lived for 67 years and did not get
a penny from OHA and for me it's been over 34 years.) Why can't OHA spend our money on education: like paying for the private schools for the Hawaiians that get in? Homestead: Buying homes anywhere in O'ahu and making it a Hawaiian homestead, so we don't have to wait our whole
life for a home. Jobs: finding or creating jobs for the Hawaiian people in helping one and other get ahead. Retirement plan: giving all Hawaiian senior citizens a retirement ineome (like social security). These are part of my goals to accomplish if I am elected an OHA trustee. I promise I
will try my best to get these goals. I believe in giving and spending Hawaiian's money now. Give us our share now before it's too late. Aloha and thank you.
D. Keala Naluai
Why do you want to be an OHA Trustee? To help perpetuate the life of land of the Hawaiian people in righteousnessto facilitate in holding our culmre and heritage true and faithful in the face of the many changes and challenges we are going through as a people, as a nation and as a state. What qualities would you bring to the position? My love for our Native Hawaiian people and our cultural heritage. A newness to the board of tmstees with my ability to maintain integrity, honesty and strength in times of challenges and changes. The ability and desire to seek out the truths, to stand by them and to work towards appropriate resolutions to differences.
What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? We are in great need of school supplies, quality educational facilities and increased teacher salaries to maintain a competitive advantage in educational excellence for Hawai'i's children, youth and adults. There is an unacceptable percentage of Hawaii's children, women and men who are homeless. Majority of Hawai'i's residence of diverse nationalities laek the awareness and understanding of the Native Hawaiian people, their culture and government. Some recently added legislative rulings, not in their favor, have influence on greater conflicts, division, and uncertainty in the hearts and minds of our Hawaiian people and others that live in their homeland.
As an OHA Trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? To provide the means and programs for excellent education and a move towards eliminating homelessness of Hawaii's children, youth and adults would be paramount and I would advocate and approve. I would actively facilitate promoting awareness to everyone (non-Hawaiian and Hawaiian alike) to be well informed on the various issues involving the Native Hawaiian people, their government, their homeland and the relations to the U.S. government. I would diligently seek the truth to eaeh of the different Native Hawaiian issues and would work together with the Board of Trustees and most importantly with the people of Hawaii on the "principle of freedom in maintaining the rights and privileges" that belong to the Hawaiian people and help to increase
unity and harmony among all nationalities living in Hawai'i. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA Trustee, what would it be? In the midst of growing strife among our people and present day government decisions, I want to stand, with other dedicated Trustees, as a guide in leading our Hawaiian people in truly perpetualing our beloved heritage and legacy in peaee and unity of heail, mind and spirit; to tum their hearts towards one another, not against one another; to have no need to hunger for nourishment, nor want for shelter, nor yearn for leaming; and to bring the hfe back into our land, as others join us to live in these Hawaiian islands as their plaee of refuge and sustenance-a plaee of learning to live together in harmony and respect for one another and with gratitude to our
ELECTI0N20ŪD
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
£ p1 Candidates Running At-large S E AT 4-YEAR TERM
Nancy Stone
Aloha. I have chosen Hawai'i to raise my children in an atmosphere of love and acceptance. Sadly, I have found that greed and racism has heeome a fundamental way of life for many people here. Racism is a disease, whieh slowly eats away at cultures. Hawaiians need not choose racism as a method of suicide for its people and culture. There are many of us non-Hawai-ians who embrace the culmre and the 'aina, and who wish to protect it. We also believe that the preservation of the language, the values and the land are essential, not just for the Hawaiian people, but for the rest of the world. Current OHA policy restricts educational funding to schools whose students have at least 20 percent Hawaiian blood. This is a sad statement from OHA, whieh has segregated many of its 'ohana. It is a tragedy
when cousins and friends are given restricted status. These practices are divisive to the families who are the foundation of the Hawaiian culture. As eaeh generation passes, fewer and fewer people will meet the standards that OHA has required. In my decision to run for trustee, I needed to look critically at my motives. I have spent many long hours questioning my abilities. I am a parent and a teacher. I have a master's degree in education and many years of experience in business. The trust of the Hawaiian people and the preservation of the ceded lands is an enormous responsibility. This is a position that requires courage, integrity, perseveranee, honesty, respect, and most importantly a vision. My vision is the preservation of the Hawaiian traditions, values and lands for many generations to eome. Therefore I propose the following:
1. Funding provided to the Department of Education to train teachers in traditional Hawaiian values. lt is essential that the children of tlie land be taught Hawaiian values so they ean become the future caretakers of the trust. There is great power in numbers. To have all of Hawaii's future generations united with a single cause will benefit all that is Hawaiian. 2. Establish a summer youth jobs program to employ teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 as caretakers to elean up and replant indigenous plants on the ceded lands. These youths to be paid a regular salary and in addition, establish a matching fund in trust for their college tuition. This will allow our children to feel ownership and eonneeī them with an intimate feel for the land. It will also insure educational opportunities to these youths that might choose to assist in the preservation of OHA.
3. Establish an open door policy via cable television links to all of the islands and allow all interested parties to offer ideas and voice their opinions. This will insure awareness of all issues and aid in directing the actions of the OHA trustees. If I am blessed with the responsibility of perpetuating the trust, I vow to commit with my mind, body and spirit to uphold the guardianship placed in my care. I am not a polkieian. 1 have no political affiliations nor do I owe anyone favors. I am a parent and feel grateful and humble by the aloha that Hawaiians have extended to my family. I consider them part of my ohana. I am an educator, and a friend. It is my sincere hope that if 1 am not elected, that my proposals will be considered for the preservation of the trust. Mahalo, Nancy Stone (Pōhaku), candidate for OHA trustee at-large
Healani Waiwai'ole
£ Healani Waiwai'ole ko'u ■ ■ inoa. I was raised by my V_^ haole mother on the continental U.S. My Hawaiian (kanaka maoli) father, Benjamin Pōki'i Keli'i Waiwai'ole, was born in Pearl City and died at the age of 56 while playing Hawaiian music in a nightclub on Long Island (New York). His father was Josiah Kinohou Keli'iwaiwai'ole and his grandfather was also Josiah. His mother was Laura Kahoa and her mother, Susan Keawepo'o'ole. At 53, I am mother of one and grandmother of three. A resident of Kaua'i since 1997, I am an editorial assistant at The Garden Island newspaper, office manager/bookkeeper for a non-profit, the Vaka Taumako Project and president and executive director of Noho Like (to live in unity with equal rights). I am host and programmer of the Nā Leo Hawaiian issues program on KKCR Kaua'i Community Radio.
I became involved in Hawaiian issues when I enrolled in Ka Lāhui Hawai'i in August 1992 while still living in Portland, Oregon, and I've been immersed in the issues since then. During my years on Moku Honu and trying to find out what was going on in Hawai'i, I developed a passion for learning about Hawaiian rights issues and sharing that information with others. Many people on island and offisland have a hard time figuring out what is going on and who's who in the movement. I found that doing general education on the whole picture was difficult as a representative of KLH, so I now do that type of education from an objective Hawaiian organization. Noho Like tries to fully inform people about all the key groups, and all sides of the issues, so that people ean make up their own minds about what they want to do. A few of us have made a commitment to this work becau.se almost no one else
is doing it. Who better than the Office of Hawaiian Affairs to do this type of inclusive education? But they have been inclined to choose a particular agenda, allocate big money and push that agenda in the media. Examples are the State of Hawai'i's HSEC and Native Hawaiian Vote, plus the recent allocation of $143,000 to run an ad campaign supportive of the "Akaka Bill." This is why I am running for OHA, to encourage more education on all sides of the issues. If I could aeeomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, it would be to empower people with knowledge so they ean make their own decisions based on complete and accurate infoiTnation. I am especially qualified in this area. I advocate for more grants to empower our people. In a recent grant period, 35 applications were submitted, 16 made it to the board for final approval and only five were granted. 1
will say "'ae" to grants and to help with medication for our kupuna. I believe non-Hawaiians should definitely vote for OHA trustees this year. Hawaiians represent less than 20 percent of the population. NonHawaiians are running for an OHA seat for the first time this year, and we know rhat they will receive votes from non-Hawaiians. Some Hawaiians will not vote because they are boycotting the Rice vs. Cayetano decision, and others because they are Hawaiian subjects of the independent kingdom of Hawai'i. So how will Hawaiians get elected if their nonHawaiian supporters don't vote out of respect for them? I say, vote for OHA and vote Hawaiian. It is important for kanaka maoli to stay in OHA until there has been a successful transition of OHA resources to the Hawaiian nation. Mahalo for this opportunity to express my mana'o.
1 Candidates Running for Hawai'i SEAT ] 4-YEAR
Linda K. Dela Cruz
My name is Lillian Linda Keaweehu Dela Cruz and I live in Hilo on Hawaiian Home Lands farm lots. I was raised in Papakōlea, O'ahu, Hawaiian Home Lands, got married and for several years, we lived in Kalihi. Then, we moved to Kāne'ohe and in 1973, we moved to Hilo and have been here ever since.
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? As an OHA trustee, I ean continue the process of building a strong and healthy environment for the present and future generations of Hawai'i. What qualities would you bring to the position?
The qualities I present are from my education at McKinley High School, Windward Community College and U.H. Hilo. I was a self-employed musician and a singer of Hawaiian songs for 40 years and gained the title of "Hawai'i's Canary." In Kāne'ohe, at "Linda's School of Hula" I owned, operated and taught the hula. As a member of several organizations,
I held leadership positions that took me to the state legislature to lobby for Hawaiian activities and agricultural issues. I also, participated in demonstrations at the State Capitol, Hilo Airport, rallies and meetings. I have the experience of suing the DHHL in the Third Circuit as prose, representing myself. I bring all these experiences and qualities to this position.
CANDIDATE5
na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 I Candidates Running for Hawai'i SEAT I" 4-YEAR TERM
Linda K. Dela Cruz (continued) >
What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? There are many important issues facing Hawaiians today. 1.Reconciliation between the Federal Government and Hawaiians. 2. Congress Senate Bill 2899 and House Bill 4904. 3.The U.S. Supreme Court decision in the Rice vs. Cayetano case. 4.Most important to me, education, heahh and welfare, job opportuni-
ties, land and home ownership and the basic needs of the homeless. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve these concerns? As trustee, I will use all my experiences and qualities to resolve the.se concerns. 1 will work cooperatively with others to resolve the.se concerns. If you could only accomp!ish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be?
One race of people. My greatest goal for the last 20 years has been to make us one race of people. I lobbied at the state legislature for this goal and received the Hawaiian Genealogy Bank at OHA. We have been a divided nation since Congress created the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, 1920, as amended. The 50 percent of more Hawaiian blood vs. the less than 50 percent Hawaiian blood quantum. While we were diligently fighting eaeh other, others have been very busy helping themselves to what is
rightfully ours. Hawaiians are the richest people in this state, yet we are the poorest. Why? Here's the plan: * All those that had an ancestor having had 50 percent or more Hawaiian blood prior to 1921, when the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act was made, are beneficiaries. All those . born after 1921 need not use the 50 percent blood quantum to quality for benefits. All you need is the ancestor. Do you agree? Mahalo a nui loa. Aloha.
Arthur A. Hoke
Arthur A. Hoke Jr. Born: Kālia, O'ahu, Aug. 30, 1935. Widower, with 3 daughters, 2 sons and 1 1 grandchildren Education: Ali'iōlani Elementary, St. Louis College. R. L. Stevenson Intermediate, Roosevelt High School, Honolulu Community College (radio repair, AS poliee science), University of Hawai'i at Hilo (BA, social sciences). Business/Work Experience: Door to door Sales, '57 -'60; roofer, '57-'58; law enforcement, '58 -'85; business adm., '72 - to present; computer consulting, '97 - to present; human resources; '72 - to present; sales &
marketing management; '95 - to present. Community/Public Service: 'Aha Hawai'i 'Ōiwi, delegate, chair; 'Ahahui Kū Mauna, member; A.L.O.H.A. Association, director; Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs, president; Christian Music Jubilee Foundation, director; Hawai'i Poliee Relief Association, past treasurer; Hawaiian Canoe Racing Association, past director, past race director, past treasurer; Hawaiian Civic Club of Hilo, member; Hawaiian Civic Club of Ka'ū, life member; Hawaiian Civic Club of Kohala, past president;
International Canoe Federation, past race director; Keaukaha Canoe Club, past director. Why I am seeking election as an OHA trustee? I have long been a proponent of Hawaiian sovereignty, especially in light of our historical loss of both dominion and domain." As mueh as time, work, and family commitments would allow, I participated in the processes that were ongoing. When OHA was first formed, I strongly considered running for trustee, but work and family situations
made the ehoiee not workable at that time. At this point in my life, my family and work responsibilities are no longer a factor in my more active involvement in Hawaiian issues. I believe that my experience and past involvements are assets I am able to offer along with the skills I've leamed from walking through life. I am committed to seeking and working towards the means to bring Hawaiians back to the position of charting their own destiny. I firmly believe that as a people, we are capable of managing our own affairs, and prospering our people and nation.
. * Hannah Springer
e ka ha'aha'a, Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? I would like to continue the work whieh began when I was elected as Hawai'i Island trustee. That work is conducted as a kama'āina of Kukui'ohiwai at Ka'ūpūlehu, one of the ahupua'a of Kekaha at Kona 'Ākau. This is a dry land and our family continues to abide by a water budget determined by how mueh water we have in our water tank. Living on a catchment system in a dry land, we
understand how it is that the Hawaiian word for wealth is waiwai. I suspect that these circumstances contribute to my being a fiscal eonservative and this is a perspective that should be present among members of the board of trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. What qualities would you bring to the position? I bring tolerance, respectfulness, curiosity and humor to the position. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people?
The most important issue facing the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is that it develop the political will to live within its means. As an OHA trustee, how wou!d you resolve those concerns? As an OHA trustee I would utilize the best advice available to make the best decisions possible. Implementation of a spending plan and adoption of a revised master plan are essential eommitments to be made that shall restrain unbudgeted for spending and reduce the tension between the executive and administrative components of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Living within our means will better provide for the perpetuity of the trust. Our improved fiscal and administrative well being will result in more effective delivery of benefits to the beneficiaries of the trust. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Adopt a revised master plan. 'O au no me ka 'oia'i'o.
1 Candidates Running for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau SEAT ~ 4- YE AR TERM
Ilei Beniamina
AT He mahalo nui kēia i ke aloha o ke akua i ka lani no kona aloha a me kona lokomaika'i. Ua hō'ike mai kāna 'ōlelo ia'u, "e nānā i ka nani e hiki mai ana, a 'o wau pū ma kou alahele." No laila, eia nō kēia ke hahai
nei e like me kona makemake, a 'o ka "pono kaulike no ka lehulehu" ka'u e 'imi mau ai ma kēia kūlana hou ma OHA. Ua koho 'ia maila au e ke kia'āina i 'elele no ko'u 'āina aloha 'o Ni'ihau me ko'u 'aina hānai 'o Kaua'i nei. He ala hou kēia a'u i ma'a 'ole ai, akā, ma ke alaka'i a ka hakulani, ua hiki nō ke hana ma ka mea e hiki ana
no ka pono o ka nui lehulehu. Hau'oli wau i ka'u e 'ike nei ma nā hālāwai, a ua hiki nō ia'u ke ho'oikaika me kā ke akua alaka'i 'ana mai. Inā he mau nīnau kāu, a i 'ole makemake paha e kama'ilio ma ka punaewele, ua hiki nō ke kākau mai ia'u ma (jeanilei@excite.com) a i 'ole ua hiki ke nānā i ka punaewele kahuapa'a o (www.ileialoha.org) ma
laila e 'ike ai i ko'u mo'omo'ali a me ko'u mau mana'o e pili ana i kēia au hou, nā Hawai'i, a me ka lehulehu o ko Hawai'i. Me 'oukou ko'u aloha mau a mau. Eia ka'u wahi pane i nā nīnau i waiho 'ia maila i mua o'u: Why do you want to be an OHA truste?
ELECTI0N200a
Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Eiection 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily refiect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
n ^ Candidates Running for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau I SEAT 4-YEAR TERM"
llei Beniamina (continued)
I have been doing grassroots work for my community, my islands and the people of Hawai'i for over 20 years. It is now the right time to continue that work of puhlie service on a Hawai'i-wide level through serving our government to affect change supportive of those grassroots initiatives. What qualities would you bring to the position? I humbly offer my credentials based on my many years of service, starting with my family, and then my people, my counseling and teaching as an associate professor at Kaua'i Community College to anyone willing to learn, and my steadfastness to see
goals eome to fruition. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The bravest of our ancestors were those who got in the wa'a and followed the stars, steeled with a strong na'au and a sense that our Akua would find them safely to Hawai'i. It must have been really hard getting into that wa'a, leaving the safety of Kahiki behind, unsure of how long it was going to take them to get to where they were going. The ho'okele on that wa'a, guided by prayer and faith, along with the support of his people who were working together to keep the wa'a going saw
the destiny realized; they made it to their new land. Today, their descendants are no different. Kahiki — status quo-is behind us and we must use that same prayer and faith to get our people together to meet our destiny. Our race — the full blooded Hawaiians — are dying out, but our people, the Hawaiian descendants, and our mother tongue must forever thrive. As an OHA trustee, how could you resolve those concerns? Guided by our kilo hōkū in the heavens, I may not be that Ho'okele who sees them to the new land, but if my contributions means safety and headway through swells and storms, I have served the wa'a and
its po'e as best as I could. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Raising awareness and respect amongst our people. Even if we do not all agree whieh is the preferred path to go on, if we ean move with respect towards our differences, we will go far indeed. Me ka mahalo a nui, "Na ke aloha e ho'ōla i ka lāhui Hawai'i"
Donald K. Cataluna
My name is Donald 'Kona' Cataluna. My Hawaiian blood has been traced to Kapohoeko (1740), Holowahine (1779), Puka Onoi (1804), Kainoapuka (1837), Alohakeao Halinuuhiwa (1877), and Mabel Vidinha (1911). Relatives also include Kilauano and Apoialani, Kaohelaulii and Kanahele. Other relatives also include Keaweehu, Aukai, Rita, Cabral, Souza, Yoshioka, Kua, Kanoa, Hilo, Naakahiki, Dela Cruz, Aiu, Takahashi, Edwards. I am 25 percent (1/4) Hawaiian. This blood quantum is the foundation of who I am. Governor Cayetano appointed me OHA trustee in January 2000 representing Kaua'i-Ni'ihau to replace Trustee Keale. On Sept. 8, I resigned for 'onipa'a. All nine trustees resigned for solidarity. I want to be an OHA trustee because I am Hawaiian, I remember my roots and I am at a time in my life
that I ean make contributions to our Hawaiians. I accepted the appointment so that I could help OHA to make a differenee for Hawaiians, and through that effort, improve things for all Hawai'i nei. With the support of my fellow trustees the following have been accomplished while I have been in this office: • we have ensured that OHA trust funds have quality investment managers and OHA's investment portfolio and other assets provide the greatest possible return to the trust (and its beneficiaries) in perpetuity. • we developed and are implementing, through a partnership with the DOE and Kamehameha Schools, a more permanent solution for addressing the special educational needs of all Ni'ihau children on Kaua'i. • we have initiated formal board action for a transition of the OHA Educational Foundation to an OHA Education Council whieh, when constituted, will make recommendations to the Board of Trustees in keeping
with its high priority on education. • we refined the budget development and oversight process through re-focusing administrative priorities on meeting beneficiary needs through a program-focused Kauhale organizational structure and fiscal procedures. • we improved the program management oversight process through supporting an expansion and acceleration of program/project evaluation reviews and reports to enhanee board of trustees planning and decision-making. • we insisted upon the initiation of a long overdue OHA personnel study to enable equitable compensation, updating and re-inventing of job description, and improved personnel practices and procedures. - we supported efforts toward the development of a Native Hawaiian Master Plan to ensure coordinated, accessible and appropriate delivery of services and resources to address Native Hawaiian needs. I have tried to be accessible to beneficiaries' concerns and to factfind and propose possible solutions
through facilitating communication, collaboration, mediation or program and funding alternatives. I have felt a great satisfaction when we have been able to address the needs. The smiles and hugs of appreciation are exhilarating. Now I seek election on Nov. 7. My wife Dorothy and both my daughters, Lee and Malia stand by me to be a candidate for trustee. Our tears of sadness transcend time to mingle with tears of suffering of our kupuna. Their tears touch my heart-gives me the motivation to be a custodian of the OHA trust and a guardian for the betterment of Hawaiians. I will strive for education, kupuna programs, housing, culture, land, environment, special cultural places and eeonomie development. We will work together, we must, we shall — to reach the dreams of our kupuna for the sake of our keiki. Mahalo nui loa. A hui hou.
Randy Rego
• • ■— Randy S. Naukana graduated from Kamehameha Schools in 1977, and received a bachelor of arts degree from Hawai'i Loa College in psychology/anthropology with a minor in music. He has worked in retail management for 20+ years. The most crucial issue facing Hawaiians today is the Akaka Bill. It establishes federal recognition whieh would protect the many federal programs for Hawaiians in light of the Rice vs. Cayetano decision. Also, it creates a governing body whieh would "govern" lands and monies,
and that Hawaiians would have to register and vote for officials. I would hold regular meetings with the community to track this bill and its implementation. This bill does raise the question how OHA would fit in with this new "goveming" body and doesn't specify what lands and monies it would be responsible for. Besides the Akaka Bill, my main focus would be land issues. On Kaua'i, many large tracks of lands are being bought by foreigners. The plantations are selling off their holdings. Keālia, whieh is a whole
ahupua'a, was a recent case that the late Billie Beamer was trying to get OHA involved in its purchase. Even Hawaiians of old knew that land was important. We should stop letting this precious resource fall into the hands of others. Lands with unknown owners or heirs should be acquired. Large tracks of lands for sale would be checked for clear title and if not clear, be pursued in court for title. Other lands, not crown or ceded, could be purchased. Hawaiians should have a land base and be proactive in acquiring it.
Regarding the Ke Kula o Ni'ihau schools on Kaua'i, it's sad that a compromise couldn't be reached. I support both sides of parents to decide on the type of education their children receive. I would support funding for both so that all concems could be realized. We have existing programs for education, job training, housing and business that I support and would enhanee and expand by working with others.
CANDIDATE5
IMZ5BZE53ĒB5ĒBMW^Q/g^ na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 Candidates Running for Kaua'i/Ni'ihau SEAT 4- Y E A R T E R M
James Kapule Torio
Why do I want to be an OHA trustee? The failures by the present OHA Board, whieh led to their removal, warrant a change in OHA. I believe it is time for a change in OHA and return the power back to our people. I represent this change on behalf of all kanaka maoli. What qualities wouid I bring to this position? As a homesteader I understand and have experienced mistreatment and denial from the OHA board of trustees in the past. I am a native small businessman providing
land-clearing service. Along with my family we operate a nine acre organic farm and have extensive background on malama 'aina. Since 1994 I eofounded the organization called Anahola Homesteaders Council (AHC) emphasizing on creating eeonomie development and job creation for my community. I currently serve as Executive Director in charge of planning and engineering for a project name "Project Faith." I am a trained grant writer and familiar with federal guidelines when writing grant proposals. For over 20 years I have been active in youth sports and presently serve as eoaeh for girls 14-17 yrs community basketball. I emphasize the value of good teamwork, attitude, and commitment.
What do I consider are the most important issues confronting OHA for the Hawaiian people? The issues of: • Elderly care • Family healthcare • Education • Jobs creation • Acquiring land • Laek of support for community initiatives • People empowerment • Allocating funding to assist community based planning • Providing an action plan to separate OHA from state control As an OHA trustee, how wiil I address these concerns?
I support: • Empowering Hawaiian communities to plan and make decision on what is best for their community • Allocate planning funds to support this process • Fund implementation plans as agreed by the parties • Increasing funding towards education and the development of Charter Schools in Hawaiian communities. • Establish ahupua'a councils on every island to discuss issues of importance • Support community based planning leading towards commercial development whereby creating jobs • Support beneficiary conferences to discuss sovereignty.
■ || I if u„ , » 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATSI 2 - Y E A R TERM
Rowena Akana
As your readers are aware, on Sept. 8, I resigned my at-large position as tmstee of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. I was forced to make this very hard decision, knowing that if I didn't take this aehon, Gov. Ben Cayetano would appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of my term, whieh ends in 2002. 1 was faced with a decision that thrust me between a rock and a hard plaee. The OHA trustees were forced to sacrifice our positions in order to preserve the integrity of this Hawaiian Trust. When I took office, I swore to protect the trust at all costs. We trustees have not been accused of malfeasance, not been accused of misappropriation of funds, not been accused of any enminal acts. Yet, we
are persecuted and prosecuted to the point that we must vacate the seats we won in a certified eleehon in order to preserve a trust that we deeply care about. If I had chosen to legally challenge the writ of quo warranto, whieh was filed by the governor and state Attorney General Earl Anzai, whieh called for the courts to remove eight of OHA's nine trustees, and had lost, the harm to the Trust would have been just as great, as it would open the way for the governor to fill my remaining two year term with someone of his ehoiee. As the last board of trustees of OHA who were placed into office by an entirely Hawaiian constituency, I believe it is important for us to make
those sacrifices necessary to make sure that the integrity of our Hawaiian trust, whieh is set aside for our beneficiaries, is preserved and protected for future generations of Hawaiians. I ask that the community try to understand my reason for resigning and I thank those who have supported me through this emotional, trying, and gut wrenching ordeal. I also greatly appreciate those who have called my office to express their encouragement and support of the current OHA trustees. I eall upon all people to support the trustees against this heavy-handed governor and the Advertiser. We must not let the governor and this daily newspaper dictate to us who our leadership should be. We cannot let the
governor replace your voices by removing us and replacing our voices with his. Too mueh is at stake for the Hawaiian people in this juncture of time. Those who have controlled our lands and revenues are afraid of us now, and the only thing that they ean do is to attack our leadership and try to pit one Hawaiian against the other. This is the old adage of "divide and conquer." We cannot let them do this. We must stand together and defeat their efforts. I ask for your support in the November elections so that we may together continue the good fight. Mahalo nui loa for all of your support and may God Bless you all.
Crayn Kauahi Akina
Aloha kākou. OHA is the beacon the Hawaiian eommunity looks to for guidance. If unity is going to start, it must start here...with OHA. I, Crayn Kauahi Akina offer a fresh mind with one purpose, Hawaiian progress. My leadership will spark a mueh needed rebirth for OHA. "Progress and vision in paradise" is why I aspire to serve as your OHA trustee. As your trustee, I will bring change and progress in the same breath. With a great work ethic, an ability to work with all people, and a technical mind focused on innovation for all Hawaiians, I will lead along with eight fellow trustees to redefine OHA. OHA will finally become your "Hawaiian Service Center."
Education is the most significant issue facing the Hawaiian community. The world is revving its engine toward an information based society that is technology driven. OHA has the means to enable all Hawaiians to become efficient in technology and to keep all Hawaiians on the technology forefront, adaptable to any technical advance. A Hawaiian society with tech savvy at all age levels would mean massive rewards. Time is critieal now. The investment will be tremendously positive. To educate, OHA must invest in technology centers that are in or convenient to Hawaiian communities. All Hawaiians would be able to master, word processing, spreadsheets, programming, networking, and hardware maintenance. These are
the skills today's companies are looking for. Let's give them a supply of able Hawaiians. Having a doublemajor degree in marketing and eeonomics, I know that when we build a powerfuI work force, respectable companies will rush to our shores. Good jobs will keep most of our talent where we want to be, right here in paradise, Hawai'i nei. Let's ease the "brain-drain" for Hawaiians. Early education programs for our children in reading, mathematics, computing and business enterprise should also be implemented. Our economy is driven mostly by small business. If we are going to make strides toward unity and/or sovereignty, we must know business basics in order to work and integrate within our community and the global economy.
Our children need this investment as our future leaders. Health is another area of importance. Why do we lead the statistics in so many health ailments? We must persevere now. Preventative education in healthy living is a priority. Many of us need guidance and help in this area. We must support and educate together. Learning from eaeh other and relying on eaeh other will foster Hawaiian unity. If we create a movement to eat healthier and to keep physically active, our lives will benefit. OHA must program health activities that are interesting and engaging. This will foster participation. We ean make it our goal as a Hawaiian people. OHA must lead. My one goal as trustee would be to touch eaeh and every Hawaiian direct-
ELECTIOIM£dOa
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak ^ĒĒEHI&dMdāIJMd3midZĒ
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATS| 2-yearterm1 .
Crayn Kauahi Akina (continued)
> ly through OHA's reach. This would result in an accurate trust-to-beneficiary relationship. Through education, team-building, and unity, we ean establish a ready-and-able Hawaiian community. Hawaiians will
have the skills necessary to become successful and empowered to reach our dreams. I am a visionary and know our path must be solidified now. Please visit me at www.akina.com where you ean learn
more and contact me directly. One fun note about me is that for almost two years, I have written a new quote on life on a daily basis. Here is one I write in closing: "In every voice there is thought.
Put eaeh voice together and there is action." Aloha, Crayn Kauahi Akina
Nani Brandt
Nani G. Brandt, age 62; widow of the late Herman Brandt; mother of 5 and grandmother of 9; member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; graduate of Kamehameha Schools; veteran, U.S. Air Force; former president /owner of Brandt Air dba ali'i Air; homesteader of Hawaiian Home Lands; commissioner of the Dept. of Hawaiian Home Lands for 9 years. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs has been in existence for 22 years and, indeed. has experienced many obstacles and changes. I render my mahalo to all previous OHA trustees as they have strived to fulfill their
roles to the seemingly completion of OHA's probationary state of existence. At the onset of this new millennium, the 21st century, we have witnessed thus far, major and historic changes; namely. 1) the approval of non-Hawaiian to vote in an OHA election, 2) the approval of nonHawaiians to be candidates for and be an OHA trustee, 3) non-Hawaiians appointed as an interim OHA trustee, and 4) finally, a movement by the federal government, via our congressional delegates, to recognize Hawaiians as an indigenous people. OHA's wheel now turns to a level of decisions, implementations and fur-
ther endurance. In reality, the real journey has just begun. And despite the opposition, this is an exciting time for all Hawaiians. Although I firmly believe that OHA is a Hawaiian entity, for and on behalf of all Hawaiians, we should be able to determine our own destiny, and will embrace and work with all people while eontinuing our quest to regain and retain our privileges, rights and dignity as Hawaiians, in preparation for the foreseeable better and greater days to eome. As interim OHA trustees, and for the duration of our two-month tenure, we will definitely not be able to realize all your wishes and desires,
however, we should be able to address OHA's immediate issues and concerns in a prayerful, rightful, corrective and amiable manner whereby we will be able to rebuild trust and cohesiveness within the board room and, more especially, with and amid the Hawaiian communities. As trustees and Hawaiians, we all need to recollect and refocus on the mission and objectives of this entity, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. I therefore offer my assistance with openness, honesty, and the desire only to do the best for and on behalf of all Hawaiians.
Gene Kini Burke
Aloha, My name is (Kini) Gene Palmyra Kaleilani Burke I am part-Hawaiian, My father was Eugene Kailipulani Burke of Waipi'o and Kukuihaele, Hawai'i. My mother is Carmen Santos Garcia Burke of 'Aiea, O'ahu. 1 was bom on O'ahu, Hawaii and raised in Hilo, Hawai'i. Education: Hilo Intermediate School High School, Roosevelt 1 960 College: Los Angeles Tech J. College, 1 966 Major: Architectural Design Drawing
and Electrical Codes Degree: Assoeiate of Arts Hilo Community College 1991, Presently a student majoring: Liberal Arts and Hawaiian Studies Past employment: Dept of Land and Natural Resources - Forestry and Wildlife, Hilo 1977-1999 Forestry technician and union unit ehakman. Medical Retirement. Architectural and Electrical Engineers -
California and Oahu, Hawai'i, 1964-1975 Designer and Project Coordinator. Present community activities: New Hope Church Hilo-Mens Ministry; Royal Order of Kamehameha - Hilo; Neighborhood Association (kumiai) Board of Directors; Volunteer Hilo Tsunami Center and Hilo Red Cross; President Ka Ho'omau Loina Hawai'i the continuation of Hawaiian practitioners; Pu'u Koholā Heiau, Nā Ali'i Koa. My interest in serving OHA? To
serve my people honestly and with my experience as a motivator and coordinator we will move forward. Important issues to the Hawaiians? 1 . Education for our people 2. Heahh and welfare for our people 3. Eeonomie development 4. To keep Hawaiian lands and money in Hawaiian hands If I had only one goal as an OHA trustee, it would be to unite and work as one. . .Mālama. Aloha nui.
Gordon Kona Caires
Born and raised in Kaimukī; attended Kaimukī High School, Kapi'olani Community College and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. Participated in the OHA/Alu Like Entrepreneurship Program. Worked as a property/residential manager. State License Board of Private Detectives and Guards, State License School Security Divi-
sion. Native and hula crafts designer. A community volunteer over 15 years primarily working with Hawaiian youth in little League Hawai'i, Poliee Activities League, Boys and Girls Club Hawai'i, Hālau o Keahi. "Taro Patch" garden at Hawai'i Nature Center. For me, working with an energetic enthusiasm together with my fellow trustees envisioning, creating, sharing
new and exciting ideas with sincerity, ho'oponopono and the true spirit of aloha is how I envision OHA being represented. At OHA, I would create program access and availability resources for every Hawaiian, with current information, education and occupation opportunities. I am very honored and proud of being Hawaiian and feel all Hawai-
ians must become "one voice." We must unite as one tremendous voice, so striking, so true with so mueh aloha, so that we ean be heard and successfully move forward in generating, perpetuating and facilitating Hawai'i in a long-term master plan for all Hawaiians to enjoy, be proud and be a part of. Mahalo nui loa. Aloha.
CANDIDATE5
na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
/ -a 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATS| 2-YEAR TERM m i
Denise Mahealani De Costa
|have submitted my name as a candidate for trustee of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs in the sincere hope that I ean be of help to the organization in guiding the future of programs that benefit our native people. It is my vision that the goal of OHA - and whieh should be the goal of all people in Hawai'i - is to work to make these islands as close to a condition of pono as possible. Pono - that state of universal harmony and balance as we strive to co-exist with these islands - is the only hope that Hawai'i has to survive and offer a nurturing home for our children and generations to eome. Pono also means to seek out justice and fairness in dealing with all people. Some "chiefs" (modern-day leaders) are no longer willing to work side by side with the commoners to complete the work of the day. Some "chiefs" are no longer truly accountable to the people except, in a somewhat superficial way, through eleetions. Some "chiefs" no longer seem
to feel an obligation to ensure that the needs of all our people are looked after. While this may be true of some leaders in Hawai'i today, it must not characterize the Ieadership of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. The organization needs leaders who will draw on all the talents and gifts of the trustees, to develop a clear and pono vision for the future of our people. We need leaders who serve the people, rather than individuals who take sides or exploit the weaknesses of fellow trustees. We need leaders who plaee service to the people before personal agenda. We need leaders who will practice the original traditions of the Hawaiian chief: manage the resources, care for the people, administer justice and maintain the spirit of aloha, consideration for others. Without these aspects of managing, caring, fairness, a sense of brotherly love and respect for others, OHA eannoi survive. 1 hope to help OHA work with our
community to develop a vision for the future. Along with these four eomponents must eome an identification of the critical needs of our people and a strategic plan to ensure that all resources are dedicated toward meeting those needs today and in the century ahead. Such a plan must involve the participation of the Hawaiian community and others in the broader community who share our love for these islands and our people. What benefits the native Hawaiian ultimately benefits all of Hawai'i. I support all efforts to bring justice and fair redress for our Hawaiian people for the illegal taking of our nation, and would not discourage any individual or group that seeks various approaches to bringing this about. My personal preference is for "nation within a nation" standing. 1 aIso support legislation recently proposed by Congressman Daniel Akaka to protect Hawaiian entitlements.
Mālama pono must be the credo of our new trustees: do what is right. Seek the balance in all things. Aloha 'āina. Background: Currently chief of community relations for the Board of Water Supply, where I developed numerous education and public outreach programs to teach conservation of our island resources for the past 20 years. I am a citizen of Ka Lāhui Hawai'i, and a member of the board of the Ko'olau Foundation. I was educated at St. Andrew's Priory, Woodbury College and the University of Hawai'i, and studied journalism and business. My extended 'ohana is from Kāne'ohe, but originally from Hāna and Hilo. I enjoy researching and advocating for the protection of pre-contact historic sites and teaching others about our history and culture.
Bud Ebel
Mākaha resident, 21 years. Husband, 43 years. Father of three sons and two daughters, grandfather of four boys. Born and raised in Albany, NY in 1942. Moved to Mākaha in 1979. I am hoping to bring responsibility, civility, accountability and dignity to the office.I also expect all actions undertaken by OHA to be able to pass a test of constitutionality. 1 am conservative by nature and
experienced. 100 percent American and proud of it. I think the United States of Ameiiea is the best country in the world. Graduate of Albany High School, attended Siena College, served as a construction engineer in the U.S. Army, was employed 10 years for the Borden Co. Owned and operated service stations, both here and 1 N .Y. Owned Ebel Truck Rental. and served as vice president of the N.Y.S. Association of service stations
and founded the Gasoline Retailers Association of North Eastern N. Y. In my view, a trustee's duty is to be fiscally responsible, conservative and thorough in carrying out their fiduciary duty. This especially means obtaining the highest possible return on investment while protecting assets from risk. The issue of constitutionality of OHA is of the highest eoneem and should be ruled on by the Supreme
Court as soon as possible to avoid further turmoil. I think race-based benefits are unconstitutional. For your reference, please see the following. www.angelfire.com./hi2/hawaiiansovereignly and/or www.aloha4all.org,
Tulane Ebisu
A|""~ Why do I want to be an OHA trustee? First, my lineal history. Back in the 1886, my paternal grandfather landed on the Hāmākua coast. (18671950). His name was Yoshichi Ebisu, a carpenter for the sugar mill. He migrated from Oshima-gun, a small island off Yamaguchi, Japan. The Oshima-gun oranges might have been the harbinger of those sweet Big Island oranges. Yoshichi and Kiku fathered thirteen children. Three died before adulthood. My father Bert T. Ebisu (1913-1980) was an entrepreneur. He was a realtor and general contractor. He also ran for a political office, district representative. I, Tulane E. Ebisu (1949-) am a realtor and statistician-economist. I have real estate licenses in Hawai'i and California I am a member of Honolulu and State Board of Realtors. I was a mortgage banker and member of the Hawai'i Association of Mortgage Bankers. I am a licensed notary pub-
lie in Hawai'i. I am a business administration graduate from U.H. Mānoa, 1969. I am a member of the U.H. Alumni Association and the Plaza Club, Hawai'i. I am the godchild of Jedd Mc Clatchy of Sacto, California. He encouraged me to reach for the "stars." When opportunity knocks, "Go for it!" Secondly, we as descendants had no ehoiee on where we were born. As providence reigned, Yoshichi Ebisu landed on the most beautiful plaee on earth...Hawai'i! When he saw the beautiful Hāmākua coastline, he declared, "this is where I want to be forever!" He is interned at the Pa'auilo graveyard, up on the hill with his Hawaiian neighbors. My dad Bert is interned at Diamond Head Memorial Park. I have a precious son. His name is Donald. He is 24 years old. I want him to take over when 1 am gone! Thirdly, OHA today is under siege. I want to assist the Hawaiians in their quest for reparations from the federal government for the illegal overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1 893.
What qualities would I bring to the position? Six qualities. I am a good listener. I ean explain things easily and simply. I am compassionate. I have an easy time assisting and helping others. I enjoy open discussions. I love to evaluate and analyze things. Given all the facts above, I ean respond to issues accurately and timely. What do I consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? Complacency and fear of retribution! Laek of funding sources, low expectations, and adversaries. As an OHA trustee how would you resolve those concerns? Hawaiians need to think positively, have high expectations, and think about the consequences before they act. Do good unto others and kindness will be returned. Be friends to all and enemies to none. Continue to share the mana, food (papayas, ulus, mangoes, plums, avocados), music, and
culture with the world. Everyone who has eome through Hawai'i cannot forget the beauty, graciousness, and gentleness of its people. Also, the fact that the climate is always salubrious, devoid of harmful snakes, and dangerous tornadoes. We are blessed. We are the golden people of the world. One cannot see these things until they are gone or they've looked at the islands ffom afar. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Tell the Native Hawaiians that there is enough for all. The era of scarcity is over. You must love eaeh other or you'll become extinct. Pray eaeh day for yourself and your enemies. We are all one. Don't worry about the future. Be happy. Hawai'i is part of the U.S. It is the richest nation in the world. In the twenty first century, its mission is to help the Hawaiians achieve their goals. Aloha pumehana
ELECTIDN2Q0D
Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATSl 2 - Y E A R TERM
w Kimo Keanu Evans
Born: Nov. 14, 1928; Wife: Aida Raza-Evans. One child, Kimberly Pualani Evans. Graduated from the Culinary Institute ofAmerica, 1986, AOS degree, Hyde Park, New York. Retired. Aspiring farmer and businessman. Dedicated to preservation of culture, family, keiki, immersion programs, parks and playgrounds, free housing, medical, prescriptions and senior programs.
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? To bring about fairness, equality and finality. What qualities would you bring to the position? A fresh approach. Y'know, to put your heads down, imua, no look back, kiek butts and work hard.
What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? Already stated above: Preservation of culture, family, keiki, immersion programs, parks and playgrounds, free housing, medical, prescriptions and senior programs. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve tho.se concerns?
You gotta go hunting where the ducks are, and that's in Washington, D.C. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? To utilize your vast acreage, grow hemp, hire Hawaiians and to help our jobless Filipinos.
Charl Fina'i
My name is Charl Kaleialohaonālani Fina'i and I am the eldest daughter of five children born to Vili Vili L. Fina'i Sr. (Dec.) and Leialoha C. (Barenaba) Fina'i. I was born and raised in Hawai'i. As a child, the importance of education was always strongly emphasized in our home as a way to ensure success in achieving one's own personal dreams and aspiratioas. In terms of education, I graduated from kahuku High School and then went on to graduate from Brigham Young University - Hawai'i Campus. I received a bachelor's degree in
business management with a minor in computer science and a teaching certificate as well. 1 then attended Chaminade where I received my master's degree in counseling psychology. Currently, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in political science with specialization in alternative futures at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. In the past, I have held various positions such as being a manger for Texaco, special education teacher, career counselor, outreach counselor, facilitator for the University of Phoenix. Work Hawai'i SYETP trainer and currently I am a MST therapist.
As one ean see, I have a diverse amount of education and experience as well. The main reason why I want to be an OHA trustee is that I ean have the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience to help ensure the successful future of all Hawaiians. The qualities that I ean offer as an OHA trustee are the following: 1) A fresh perspective. 2)Caring spirit. 3) Dependability. 4) Determination. 5) I am goal oriented, and, 6) Hard-working.
I will be fully committed to making sure that decision I make will always be in the best interest of continuing to ensure the successful future of all Hawaiians. If I could accomplish one goal as an OHA trustees, that would be to further educate the Hawaiian people so that they will have the knowledge to utilize the resources that are available to ensure success of achieving their own dreams and aspirations in Iife. Education is the key to a successful future for all Hawaiians. ■
Jason Giles
As a non-Native Hawaiian I am frequently asked why I want to be a trustee for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. My purpose is to provide voters with an independent non-Native ehoiee that will strive to protect all that OHA has accomplished and to improve the cultural, political and eeonomie conditions for all Hawaiians. As an American Indian, I strongly believe that I will contribute to OHA's central goal of improving life for all Hawaiians. I first became familiar with Native Hawaiian issues as a Marine Corps Officer stationed at Kāne'ohe Bay. I witnessed first-hand the laek of respect given to Native Hawaiian culture and religion by the county, state and federal governments. My formal education in Native Hawaiian issues began while I interned at the Native Hawaiian Legal Corporation after my first year of law school. I also authored an article comparing the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act's 50 percent blood
quantum requirement with the same blood quantum requirement burdening my own tribe in Oklahoma. My motivation to run for OHA stems from the destructive comments made by non-Native candidates and the plaintiffs in Rice v. Cayetano. At this critical juncture in Hawaiian affairs, with the future of current Native Hawaiian programs open to attack, there needs to be a voice from the non-Native population that will educate the public on how to co-exist with a sovereign native entity. Unfortunately, all state residents will decide the immediate future for Native Hawaiians. Even assuming a united Native Hawaiian voting bloc, this will not defeat the will of the majority non-Native population. There must be an independent non-Native candidate for OHA that is not hand-picked by the Governor or controlled by the Rice, Burgess, and Twigg-Smith faction. My candidacy will represent that ehoiee. I personally feel that federal recog-
nition is the single most important issue confronting Native Hawaiians today. Federal recognition is the first step towards allowing Native Hawaiians to directly address the poverty and health issues that disproportionately plague this population. I understand how illogical it is to have the U.S. government recognize a culture that existed long before the United States' own existence. However, as mainland tribes have learned, you must take part in this constitutional democracy in order to at least have a ehanee at cultural survival. I believe the framers of the constitution envisioned a system of federalism that encompasses the governmental self-determination of its native people. Establishing a government-to-government relationship with the U.S. is also the best way to negotiate a ceded lands settlement. I understand that a settlement in any form will never adequately compensate Native Hawaiians for the devastating land
and population losses suffered at the hands of the United States and State of Hawai'i. However, in order to bring about a beneficial ceded lands settlement there must be a federally recognized Native Hawaiian government that represents the selfdetermination of the Native Hawaiian population. As an OHA trustee, I will do everything in my power to prevent the OHA trustee board from deciding the fate of the ceded lands. The ceded lands are an issue that should be resolved by a Native Hawaiian governmental entity accountable to the Native Hawaiian population, not by the winners of a state general eleeūon. By virtue of my education and training, dedicated work experience, and commitment to improving the conditions of all Hawaiians 1 feel I will greatly contribute to the mission of OHA. I look forward to discussing my views with you as I campaign around O'ahu and the neighbor islands.
Aliee Greenwood
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? As a Native Hawaiian, 1 feel that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs represents efforts to preserve and strengthen the Hawaiian ideals,
expectations and traditions. I deem it a privilege and an honor to be a part of this system. What qualities would you bring to the position?
I obtained a G.E.D. and went on to get an associate in science degree. I have over 20 years experience in historical, land and genealogical research; am an active participant in community affairs; water protection and rights; return of Mākua and the
protection of Keawa'ula; the education, protection, respect and care of our iwi kupuna (ancestral remains); the cost of the birth, death, marriage certificates and the impact on those who must apply for entitlements; a member of 'ohana Lualualei
CAMDIDATE5
na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
/ 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large I SEATS| 2-YEAR TERM
Aliee Greenwood (continued)
^ Ahupua'a; attended legislative issues, for or against. Have participated and attended OHA meetings. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? a) The most important issue is education, for everyone as well as our children. It means opportunities and higher
standards of living. 1 support resources for teachers; smaller class size and better pay. Education is the most important part of our living. b) Another important issue is housing, the stability and foundation of a home. The cost of owning a home should never be an issue, it should be affoidable. e) Businesses are also part of our eeonomy. Businesses need our help with education, loans and co-ops.
As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? Instill a faster and easier way for funding, eo-op councils, speakers and resources. Work together with the city, state, federal, private enterprise and legislators for the betterment of our people. Eaeh life has its own speeial design. We will find the right time and the right person, the idea is to never give in or give up.
If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Education is the key to the past, present and future. ALOHA KE AKUA. Yours in the spirit of aloha.
Thomas Kalani Haia
Thomas Alan Kalani Haia, also known as Kalani Haia, is a St. |Louis High School graduate. He earned his bachelor*s degree in polkieal science from the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. He earned his Juris Doctor from the William S. Richardson School of Law. Thomas and his children live in Waimānalo, where they are members of the St. George Catholic Church. Thomas is a practicing attorney in Honolulu. His law practice primarily involves family law, where he
often serves as Guardian ad Litem, representing the interests of mostly Hawaiian children. Thomas volunteers with the First Circuit Court's Kid's First II Program, as well as the Volunteer Guardians ad Litem Program. Thomas serves as the Dean of Students of Holy Trinity School in Kuli'ou'ou. Thomas served as Aide to former OHA Trustee Kīna'u Boyd Kamali'i. He worked as attorney/community liaison for the Native Hawaiian Advisory Council. At the Native Hawaiian
Advisory Council, Thomas' main duties included working with clients in order to preserve water rights before the Commission on Water Resource Management. Thomas is highly motivated to see change at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. He believes that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is capable of doing mueh more to assist our community. I am committed to working cooperatively with others in order to better serve the needs of our community. Areas where improvement is need-
ed include: early learning opportunities for children; accessibility to quality education; increased social services for families in need; low-cost/no-cost legal services for families in need; and dignified living alternatives for the elderly. Thank you for honoring Thomas with a vote for OHA trustee at-large. *
Ralph Hana Hanalei
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? To have the opportunity to enhanee the unity of purpose and to achieve the goals of OHA in harmony. VVhat qualities would you bring to the position?
Having been born and raised in Hawai'i, I have obtained the qualities necessary to understand the unique problems of Hawai'i. Also, to share proven leadership in professional and community activities. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA? Of the many issues facing <
Hawai'i's community, I feel that two of the outstanding issues are housing and scholarships. As an OHA trustee, how wouId you resolve these concerns? With the issues I have identified concerning housing and scholarship, I have the ability to coordinate as a professional liaison
for those accomplishments. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? As an OHA trustee, my priorities would be to strive towards achieving unity and the goals of OHA. Aloha.
Lela Malina Hubbard
Lela Malina Hubbard was born in Waipahu Plantation Hospi|tal, grew up īn Kalihi, and graduated from St. Andrew's Priory. I attended the University of Hawai'i and received a BA in history and a General Secondary Credential from San Diego State University. For over a decade, I have worked to uphold Hawaiian rights and self-determina-tion, sharing research and information. For many years I have observed OHA and have determined that there needs to be a number of improvements. Beneficiaries should be treated equally with respect. OHA trusteēs need to cooperate with eaeh other to
raise the status of all Hawaiians. Information must be readily available, particularly on how the money is spent. Money needs to be used more efficiently. Years ago, OHA should have bought an office; rent is close to one million dollars annually. OHA has not built an eeonomie base. OHA should have purchased the Waiāhole Ditch. Water is the gold of the future. There should be a better balance in spending. More grants should be given to beneficiaries. More money should be spent on primary and elementary education so our children will have basic skills to succeed in high school and college.
Are the beneficiaries really benefiting from their trust? Or are the trust funds used to support the OHA bureaucracy and those anointed by the chair/director? I have been told often that OHA has done nothing for the grassroots Hawaiians. Who speaks for those Hawaiians who are too busy making a living, sending children to school, and taking care of family business? I ean fill that spot knowing that the true mission of OHA is to advocate or the betterment of the Hawaiian people. For example, education should be expanded to include classes for job replacement and programs enhancing family and social living. Adequate
health programs should include drug education, prevention and treatment facilities as well as advocacy for other medical needs. Legal services for beneficiaries need to be increased. To pay for helping beneficiaries with expanded programs and funding, OHA needs to scrutinize the ceded lands trust to insure that the highest rents are being received for these leases of Hawaiian lands. We should be receiving $30 million a year. As your OHA trustee, I will continue that whieh I have always done in my life; share knowledge and help those who need help.
ELECTIŪN2ŪŪD
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
' , 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large I SEATS| 2 - Y E A R TERM
Kekoa David Ka'apu Jr.
Aloha, my name is Kekoa David Ka'apu Jr. I was bom in 1960 in Pensacola, Florida, while my father completed training as a naval aviator. I returned to Hawai'i in 1962 and lived for awhile with my grandparents Myrtle and David Ka'apu-'awa-o-Kamehameha at their grass house home amid taro patches in Punalu'u, O'ahu. Throughout my youth 1 gathered impressions of an old Hawai'i lifestyle and leamed many important lessons and values from them. Chief amongst these was to cherish and protect my Hawaiian culture. Also, to share and promote my culture and its values whenever possible.
Before graduating from Umversity High School in 1978, I followed examples of public service given me by my grandmother who was elected to the State School Board and my father as Honolulu City Councilman by mnning for a seat on the Constitutional Convention as an 18 year old. I eame in third in a race to fill two seats. That year, before going off to attend Harvard University, I worked as an assistant to my father who was elected to the Constitutional Convention. It was at this constitutional Convention that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs was established. My interest in serving the Hawaiian peoplestarted early in my youth and has
motivated me throughout my life. I have worked hard to educate myself both formally and through personal, everyday experience. I am grateful for the understanding and perspective I have found. An important source of my perspective is the experience 1 have gained through my profession as a Hawaiian cultural art practitioner. To be specific, after starting college I learned the art of coconut weaving from my father to help pay my tuition. After several experiences working in typical jobs I eame back to my weaving and have stayed with it ever since. Weaving both for the people of Hawai'i and for our malihini visitors I have in my own way served
as an ambassador of the Hawanan culture and have worked to preserve and promote it as taught to me by my Tūtū-lady and Tūtū-man. It has been my good fortune to be able to make a profession and cultural mission out of my craft and has been very rewarding for me. As your OHA trustee I will work to bring people together so that as many as want to ean be involved in determining our future as Hawaiians. I will also work hard to bring out the positive and to preserve our Spirit of Aloha. I would be honored to serve you. Mahalo for considering my candidacy.
Lovell Kaleikini
Whv do you want to be an OHA trustee? A little bird whispered in my ear, "Why is your name not on the candidates list yet for OHA trustee?" 1 believe this was my challenge to speak up and use my imagination to create a linkage of pleasure for all human beings and the importance of maintaining good and open relationships. This linkage of pleasure and relationships will restore a healthy kanaka maoli community respect for God, nature, man and the surrounding environment. The kanaka maoli are responsible for maintaining a sensitive pleasure and relationship to the environment because the kanaka maoli knew without it there would be no sustenance. What qualities would you bring to the position?
My qualifications are that I am 75 percent kanaka maoli, born and raised in Papakōlea; I have a B.A. in politieal science; minor in pre-law, A.S. legal assistant; major, paralegal, and MPH; School of Public Health. Ironworkers Union Loeal 625. Retired Sgt. lst Class United States Army Reserve, 6 years. Assistant liaison officer detention home. Neighbor Helplng Neighbor Project; Senate Judiciary Committee, Senator Chang. OHA volunteer 4 years. Certified Ho'olomilomi Healer under Papa Kalua Kaiahua. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? Values have grown tremendously apart from the kanaka maoli of the agriculture society and kanaka maoli of today's society, the writing society. There is no harmony. There is only
disharmony. This is the consequence of kanaka maoli versus modern man. As an OHA trustee, how woukl you resolve those concerns? The kanaka maoli has a large supply of love, cooperation and sharing; love and discipline for everyone throughout the extended family; cooperation and skills that benefits all; groups achievement and production; sharing without any conditions; need to be productive and positive reinforcement; extended family; everyone needed and respected; status based on birth right and achievement; and laws that are explicit and clear. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? It is important that the kanaka maoli be brought back in harmony to
develop an understanding and aeeeptance for the natural and harmonious order of our view of the spiritual force through their own contact with the Christ-like lives through prayer and meditation. To develop an understanding of the law that whatever a person gives out in thought forms, word forms, or behavior forms will somehow eome back to them. To develop and understanding and appreciation for life as an opportunity for growth and learning that will be directed at the development of inner wisdom that is developed from within. To be able to develop and design a lifestyle and social consciousness that permits all human beings to function in maximized harmony with all of the goals presented thus far.
Reynolds Kamakawiwo'oie
My 25 years as a poliee officer gave me insight into different cultures and their ways of lrfe in Hawai'i. Meanwhile, my many years of involvement in Hawaiian and community service groups has provided clarity on the issues confronting Hawaiians, and the means of solving them. These groups include Nā Koa o Pu'ukoholā Heiau (founding group); Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs (former 2rid V.P.), Alu Like-Hawai'i Island (former board member), Hāmākua Jaycees (former president); Hawai'i Jaycees District 8 (former director); Hawaiian Civic Club of Hāmākua (former president and cuiTent board chairman); Hāmākua delegate - 'Aha Hawai'i 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian Convention); board of directors - East Hawai'i Hui Kāko'o 'Āina Ho'opula-
pula (applicants' organization for Hawaiian Homes); and the Royal Order of Kamehameha. As a leader 1 feel a deep inner eall to run for OHA trustee - it's my time to serve our people. I lament how history has cost us our sense of trust. We need to restore trust and leadership. I will provide meaningful leadership in critical decisions that occur at both the OHA board and community levels. I am acutely aware of this dual role, and will follow it. 1 am devoted to Hawaiian issues, and working with others. Having an overall picture of Hawai'i's people, 1 bring to OHA the qualities of experience in the Hawaiian 'ohana and other cultures, knowledge of Hawaiian cultural issues, strengths, and needs, commitment to causes, loyalty to the feelings of our people, tirelessness, aloha in the face of
adversity and, in particular, respect for everyone and their opinions. Many Hawaiians are seeking balance in their culture while living in the Western ways. I feel strongly that cultural knowledge and identity is the key to this balance. At the same time, the community's unity and mutual respect improves when its non-Hawaiian members understand Hawaiian culture and its overriding love for the land. lt is time to get back to basics. I want Hawaiians to heal physically, emotionally and spiritually. The means to this is through heakh, self-determination and education. Our most important issue, then, is to learn Hawaiian culture and to speak Hawaiian, so that we regain identity and ean take care of our health and welfare. Thus, a primary vision I have is to
support a "marae"-type cultural practice and learning center in eaeh district, somewhat similar to those of our Māori cousins in New Zealand, I believe OHA should be the driving force, at least for now, in creating these centers where both old and young ean comfortably learn and participate in Hawaiian culture and language. While serving as the district focal point for cultural and language learning, these centers will serve as well for ceremonial and spiritual events, sharing with other cultures, and a source of community pride. I believe one aspect of these centers must also be a teaching/learning system whereby those of non-Hawai-ian ancestry who wish to learn the language and culture ean do so also. This is another of my goals - enhanced community understanding,
CANDIDATE5
BEEngEĒEEHB353BM^^^Q/g/o na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
3 ēpeeial Election - Candidates Running At-large S E ATS| 2 - Y E A R TERM
Reynolds Kamakawiwo ole (continued)
^ : communication and unity. Hawaiian sovereignty is obviously on its way. These centers will serve as important sites for discussion and decision, where the site itself
reinforces respect for opposing views. Hawaiian health is another significant issue. Centers should be the source of culturally-based sports and exercise programs, and of learning to provide
and use health-enhancing Hawaiian foods. All this is why I embrace this "marae" concept as a necessity for Hawaiians, and a builder of eommunity unity and understanding.
I am totally committed to these goals and humbly request your vote.
Kina'u Boyd Kamali'i
We have little or nothing to fear from our friends and neighbors voting in this OHA election. Remember — it was only with all our votes that the Office of Hawaiian Affairs was even created in 1978. It was this same support that sustained legislative approval of the $130 million settlement to OHA in 1993 and the 1995 $600 million settlement to Hawaiian Homes. lt was a unanimous ruling by the State Supreme Court in 1997 that affirmed Native Hawaiian traditional rights- and practices in the PASH case. And now it is a unified Hawai'i congressional delegation that is leading federal recognition of an explicit trust relationship with Native Hawaiians. What we do have to fear is allowing anger or pettiness from the few to eoniinue breaking our trust in eaeh other and diverting our focus from the goals we ean only attain together. That's why I'm asking for your vote in the special election as a candidate for OHA trustee at-large. For more than twenty years I have
remained focused on our primary goals-the establishment of a selfdetermined Native Hawaiian government and the comprehensive settlement of our claims to the ceded or former crown and government lands. As set forth in the "Palapala 'Aelike" (document of Agreement) developed with the sponsorship of Ho'omalu ma Kualoa, there is a responsibility to self-governance: Principle. Self-governance and the exercise of sovereign powers do not exist in isolation from other peoples and governments. It is the obligation and a primary responsibility of any government and its people to affirm, nurture, and define peaceful and productive relationships with other governments and peoples. As Hawaiians, kanaka maoli, we again accept this obligation and eommit ourselves to assuring that the processes of self-determination and self-governance are not exercised solely to make the Hawaiian people pono, but also to restore mutual good will and friendship to our relation-
ships with other peoples of the world, the United States of Ameiiean and the citizens of the State of Hawai'i. With governmental powers and a land base, we ean then provide the direction, the resources, and the opportunities to improve the education, health and eeonomie status of our 'ōpio, mākua, and kūpuna. With the result of making all of Hawai'i stronger and more just. Mahalo a nui loa. Personal Background: Kīna'u was born and raised in Honolulu. She is the mother of three children (R.P., Jr., Na'unani and Sissi) and Tūtū to five grandchildren. She graduated from Punahou and attended the University of Hawai' i at Mānoa. ELECTIVE OFFICES • State Representative (1974-82, 84-86 • Presidential Elector ( 1 980) OHA Trustee At- large (1992-96) Chair, Ho'omalu Ma Kualoa (1996-present)
Member, McCully-Mo'ili'ili Neighborhood Board #8 (1998-present) APPOINTED POSITIONS • Chair, Federal Native Hawaiians Study Commission (appointed by President Reagan, 1981-83) • Administrator, State Health Planning and Development Agency (appointed by Governor Walhe'e, 1987-93) • Member, Congressional Working Group (appointed by Senator Akaka, 2000) AWARDS AND HONORS • Outstanding Hawaiian Woman in Government (Alu Like) M • Outstanding Hawaiian (Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs) • Appreciation Award (Hawai'i Diabetes Association)
Miiehell Kanekoa
IMiīehell Kānekoa III. was born in religious and God-fearing home in Honolulu. My grandfather founded a church organization that is now known as The International Assemblies of the First Born whieh has churches all over the world. My grandfather's first church in Honolulu ministered to the Hawaiian people, notably the now deceasedRev. Kamakawewe'ole of Wai'anae. My grandfather started Hawai'i Bible Institute whieh trained many Hawaiians who have become ministers and
church workers all over this State of Hawai'i. I am now following in the footsteps of my father, Rev. Mitchell Kānekoa Jr., as a minister to Hawaiians and all alike. I travelled to Singapore, Malaysia, Iridonesia, Philippines, Korea, China and taught the refugee children in Hong Kong with Youth With a Mission (a non-denomi-national Christian group). I have had mueh experience in working with people from all walks of life, especially young people.
I have been treasurer and assistant treasurer of our church organization for the State of Hawai'i. I am also presently a consumer sales representative in charge of new accounts, loans and customer service for Bank of Hawai'i. If I am elected, I will get the ceded lands in Hawai' that the Hawaiian people are entitled to. These lands will provide homes for all the Hawaiians, not just the pure Hawaiians or half Hawaiians! And this will be not only in the depressed areas. Also I
will provide educational opportunities for all Hawaiian children, especially if Kamehameha Schools provide education to only the elite upper three percent. Also I would provide job opportunities for all the Hawaiians. In our church, through the leadership and advice of my grandfather and father many of the people in our church are well-off, owning big and several homes. I ean do the same for the Hawaiians.
Orrin Kupau
Aloha, my name is Orrin K. Kupau and I am a candidate for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. I was born in Hawai'i on Aug. 19, 1978. In 1980, my parents decided to leave Moloka'i and move their new family to California where we lived for the majority of my life, until 1997, when my parents received a eall from "Hawaiian Homesteads." Being the youngest of three children,
I was nominated to accompany my parents back to elaim this house on some Hawaiian land, whieh they sadly left behind 17 years earlier, alIowing us the opportunity to grow and broaden our knowledge in this "American democracy." Dad and mom, "thank you" for allowing and preparing me to handle the true struggle of our Hawaiian people. Also, for all of your support
and respect towards my decisions and the strength to accomplish everything I set my heart to, for we tend to forget at times, without our parents and their parents, we would not exist. After returning "home," I decided to education myself on the history of our people. Nothing prepared me for the documented theft of our kingdom and culture. Not even my mainland schooling taught me anything about
these facts. Now that I know the true meaning of being Hawaiian. it has brought new meaning to my life. Through these new experiences, I've enhanced my understanding and listening on issues through a neutral mind, uncorrupted of the wrongdoings of our past leaders. While totally aware of the separation their action caused,' my belief is that my generation will bring UNITY to our
m ELEmnNPnnn
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions e*pressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
^ 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large | SEATS| 2 - Y E A R TERM
Orrin Kupau (continued)
parents' generation of leaders. I've noticed that there's a missing "link" whieh prevents them to eome to a consensus. Would I be wrong to say that "We..., your children are that missing 'link'?" Now, I eall out to my generation... "generation X" to heeome politically active in this time where major Odecision are being made without our mana'o and the continued injustice being done to our people and our organizations created to better our lives and our children's'. Simply by
voting on Nov. 7, 2000, for the person that will vocal express their true feelings and understanding of the purpose of OHA without the fear of losing their joys or reputation with influential people. Knowing at all times the "truth" must be made public no matter the cost. In my heart, I know and believe I am that "vote." Together as a generation, we ean "tip" the scale of this years election. Our constitutional right to "vote" guarantees it. If we allow them to eonūnue, the legal destruction of our people's
identity will occur before we have a ehanee to become leaders. Our fate would be sealed and our people just a memory. Remember... we are called "Generation X" because they do not know how to classify our age group. Our parents and ancestors have made it clear that we are more than their offspring. We belong to a land and people of pride and respect. Why not be the generation responsible for "UNITY" amongst our people. Resolution with the U.S. and ultimately a
world model to other feuding nations... that no matter how small you may be in this great world... peaee and patience is the only way to obtain true independence". With the guidance and protection of our "God" almighty, shall we triumph over the evil that plagues our "'āina"... and the wisdom that as long as our actions are done from our hearts, nothing ean stop us! Mahalo and God bless, O. Kupau, candidate for OHA.
Richard Lee
Richard Lee is a man of many talents. He not only has a wide variety of organizational and leadership experiences, but also mueh professional and business expertise. For example, Richard has previously worked as a law clerk for the State of Hawaii, a tax specialist with Coopers & Lybrand, C.P.A.'s and an attorney in private practice specializing in taxation, real estate, and business law. Richard also later served as a Family Court Judge in the State of Hawai'i. He was not only the first appointed by the Hawai'i Judicial Selection Commission, but at age 32, Richard was one of the youngest judges in the state. At the relative young age of 35, he had acquired over a million U.S.
dollars in equity and headed a corporate conglomerate of companies grossing over $3 million per year with over 100 employees in the travel, nightclub and real estate investment fields. His Steel Wings and Power Station nightclubs were among the top discos for young people in Hawai'i. Richard's ten years of community service in the Jaycees was full of remarkable achievements and distinctive awards. He led the Honolulu Chinese Jaycees to a #1 ranking in the Hawai'i Jaycees and was one of their Gold Chip Presidents. Later as State President of over 3000 members, Richard led the Hawaii Jaycees to #2 in the nation and he was recognized as one of the Top 5 State Presidents in America with the coveted Clayton Frost Memorial Award.
Richard's Jaycee career culminated with being elected as vice president in charge of Southeast Asia for Jaycees International, a 500,000member organization. Richard takes great pride in being the founder of the Miss Chinatown Hawai'i Pageant and the Honolulu Chinese Jayceettes, whieh are today known as the Rising Phoenix Jaycees. In 1980, Richard was selected as one of the Three Outstanding Young Persons in Hawai'i and has been listed in "Outstanding Young Men of Ameiiea" and in "Leaders of Hawai'i". Mr. Lee has extensive experience in lecturing and training in many areas including leadership, personal development, goal setting, time management, organization building, recruiting and motivation. Today, Richard is owner and man-
aging partner of Richard Lee, Attorney-At-Law, A Law Corporation, a 14 person law firm specializing in business law, real estate law, family law, and litigation, and Sigma 8 Corporation, a business and computer consulting company. In 2000, the law firm entered e-business and became completely networked and online Internet connected, as well as added its web site, askjudgelee.com, to provide more efficient and higher quality service to its clients. Richard's goal is to expand and have companies in Silicon Valley (near Stanford University where he attended college), China and Hawai'i. If you have any furthers questions, please contact Richard Lee at 957-0000
Bob McGregor
After being brought up in a very political Hawaiian family, I have learned that pubic service is one of the most important things a person ean do. And coming from that gap generation, I may be able to act as a unifier between the generations in the Hawaiian eommunity to bring them forward together into the 2 1 st century. One of the biggest assets I would bring to the board would be a sense of what is beyond Hawaii. As a Hawaiian living outside Hawai'i, 1 have had an opportunity to see how others view us and what has happened to other
indigenous people as they try to exist with the majority of society around them. I know that whatever forward momentum we are going to gain is not going to be out of the state, but rather out of the government in Washington, and I believe that I ean speak to them at their level and eommunicate our goal and dreams to them in a way that they might be able to understand. I believe that the biggest challenge that OHA and the Hawaiian people are going to face is the question of self-determination. There is a lot of work that the people need to do, and I
believe that I ean begin to point them in the right direction in battling the challenges that we are going to face as a part of the United States. The one thing that I would like to do during my tenure would be to start to unify the Hawaiian nation. We need to find a sense of who we are and wheie we are headed. Onee we, as a nation, ean staif this quiet discussion, we ean begin to find answers to the other difficult questions that will lead our people to nationhood. BIOGRAPHICAL DATA: Born: July 27, 1950 Honolulu
Raised: Honolulu Punahou School 1968 Oklahoma State University Hawai'i Pacific College 1970-1972 1 977 Business Administration MILITARY SERVICE: U.S. Navy 1972-1976 EMPLOYMENT: KPUA Radio Hilo. Hawai'i 1989 Ali'i Productions, Salt Lake City, Utah 1990-1998
Harriet 'llima Morrison m —
|have lived on my family's kuleana in Mālamalama, Kailua, O'ahu. I spend most of my time raising native plants and I also work part-time as a family law attorney in private practice. I am a consultant for the Hawai'i Coalition for Health and a board member of Hawai'i's Thousand Friends, an environmental organization, whieh persuaded Hawai'i's Supreme Court to adopt the
Public Trust Doctrine in deciding the Waiāhole Ditch case. I would like to be an OHA trustee to develop budget policies that enrich the lives of native Hawaiians now and in the future. As a government agency, OHA's mission should be to expend revenues to fulfill its mission. Currently, OHA seems to view itself too mueh as a trust and not enough as an agency, hoarding money while its
mission goes unfulfilled and Hawaiians die on the beaches and in prisons. As a trustee, my best qualities would be the ability to reconcile differing viewpoints, to move important issues forward to a consensus, to keep focused on the best interests of the beneficiaries. I think its important to hear all sides of an argument for discussion purposes, but it is equally important to resolve the issue, even if
it means simply giving up gracefully. I have faith that a dedicated group of people, especially native Hawaiian trustees, will act in a manner that enriches the lives of native Hawaiians. Three critical problems facing native Hawaiians today are poverty, ill heakh and aleohol or drug abuse. Because of the emotional interdependence among our extended 'ohana, dozens of people beyond the
CAIMDIDATE5
MUdUMhldāEBini^^^^^^Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
/ «tfj. . 3 | Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATS[ 2 - Y E Ā R TERM
Harriet 'llima Morrison (continued)
^ ; ; immediate family unit are impacted with a single family member is facing any of these problems. As a trustee, I would ask the other trustees to join me in exploring ways to resolve these issues. For example, OHA could provide partial wages for up to six months to businesses that hire beneficiaries. OHA could consider creating a fund to supplement health insurance fees for families unable to afford it, and should commit a sizable amount to support culturally-based substance abuse treatment programs that do not
quality for heahh insurance coverage. OHA could then better the lives of whole families whose stability is threatened by these three problems. Another critical issue that races Hawaiians and OHA is the retum of our sovereignty. Unfortunately, with the likely passage of Senator Akaka's recognition bill by the Ū.S. Congress, OHA's days will likely be numbered as the primary organization to manage Hawaiian tmst assets. Nevertheless, I have always believed that true Hawaiians carry within them the pain of the great injustice perpetrated upon us in
the 1890s and continuing today, the loss of control of our destiny. I suspect it is that pain whieh causes some individuals and some families to be dysfunctional. OHA should create an action plan for gaining international recognition for Hawai'i as a non-self-governing nation whieh qualifies for oversight by the United Nations. When Hawaiians onee again have hope that they ean control their destiny, they will begin to heal and we as a community will be healthier in every way. If I could accomplish only one
goal as a trustee, I would hope to be able to convince the board to provide substantial funding for substance abuse treatment programs for Native Hawaiians. When a family has a drug or alcohol-abusing member, the whole family is under enormous stress, to pay the bills, to keep a happy face for the outside world. Our keiki and our kupuna live with this stress and absorb it, and the substance abuser ends up with deep feelings of guilt. Culturally based substance abuse treatment centers save lives and families.
Nalani Olds
Nālani 01ds is a singer, dancer. musician, composer, producer, director, actress, • recording artist and lecturer on Hawaiian history and culture, who has toured internationally promoting Hawai'i, including a performance in Carnegie Hall in New York City in 1988. She has been a featured vocalist with the Royal Hawaiian Band for over 20 years, and has performed in major Waikīkī and neighbor island hotels including the Danny Kaleikini Show at the Kāhala Hihon Hotel. Apart from a long career as a performer, she serves and has served in the capacities of officer, director, advisor, and ambassador for many schools and community organizations such as the Moanalua Gardens Foun-
dation, American Cancer Society, Kalihi-Pālama Culture & Arts Society, Punahou School, St. Louis School. Festivals of the Pacific, YWCA of O'ahu, Chamber of Commerce of Hawai'i, University of Hawai'i Committee for the Preservatiori & Study of Hawaiian Language Art & Culture and the 'Iolani Palaee. In the human services field, her experience runs the gamut from spouse abuse and being a kupuna out reach facilitator in the Alu Like Native Hawaiian Substance Abuse Offender/Ex-Offender Program and kupuna-facilitator at Hawai'i Addiction Center including volunteer work in Halawa Correctional Facility and the Womens Correctional Facility-to training people in cross
cultural barriers, self image, and lecturing on the Continuing Education Program circuit for Kamehameha Schools and and Elderhostel Programs at the University of Hawai'i a Mānoa. He Ala Kulaiwi is currently being offered in the community to businesses, and in the tourist industry at the Waikōloa Hihon Hotel. It has been offered as a non-credit course with Kapi'olani Community College. In 1992, Nālani, along with Charles K.L. Davis, concluded a tour of the State of Hawai'i with an educational show, "Nā Kulaiwi Kaulana," telling the stories of the old homes of Hawai'i and their gracious owners. Nālani and Charles were joined by many entertainers as they traveled around the state. The ending part of
1999, she began a one woman tour of some fifty libraries in the state system, including the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa. She brought to, and introduced to the eommunities,the newly published Queen's Songbook by Queen Lili'uokalani. The Songbook presentations will eontinue to be presented in other venues as well. Nālani is a recognized claimant in the process of working with other claimants to reinter the Iwi Kupuna of Mōkapu and also a claimant in the reinternment of the Iwi Kupuna of Waikīkī. She is also a member of Hale O Nā Ali'i.
Charmaine Padeken
Aloha mai kākou. 'O Charmaine Hiapo Padeken ko'u inoa. I am a candidate atlarge for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. I appreciate the opportunity to submit my answers to the questions presented for candidates in the October issue of Ka Wai Ola o OHA. Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? I want to be an OHA trustee because I want to do all that I ean to help Hawaiian people become aware of what is going on at OHA. I want to ensure that all revenues Hawaiians are entitled to by law, including the $375 million, is directed to the source for whieh it has been designated. I want to establish an open-door policy and to make sure there are good public relations with homestead residents, students, elders, the incarcerated, the houseless, the underemployed/undereducated, as well as the uninformed public. What qualities would you bring to the position?
I will bring fresh ideas and positive energy from the community-at-large. 1 believe qualities such as honesty, integrity. openness, trustworthiness are required of public servants who are entrusted with decision and policy making that effect the people of Hawai'i. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? • Hawaiians are a land-based people. Our spirituality is grounded in the 'āina. Therefore, I consider land rights to be the most important issue confronting OHA and the Hawaiian people. For example, Hawai'i could be the food-producing center of the Pacific Rim and exporting seafoods from our fishponds and agricultural items from our lo'i rather than importing 75 percent of our food from outside of Hawai'i. • Second, quality education in a variety of forms is essential to survival of the culture and our future generations. For instance, high schools could specialize in particular
fields of interest like computer technology as well as vocational skill training such as construction i.e., electrician apprenticeship programs. • Third, we as Hawaiians are of one breath and are united spiritually, mentally and physically and we must work together as one for the betterment of all. We have methods within the Hawaiian culture to resolve any disagreements or problems such as ho'oponopono and the wisdom of our kupuna (elders). • Fourth, sovereignty is an issue that frightens a lot of people but all it means is.for people to have the right to decide their own fate and to determine for themselves what is correct for them. This is what most people, regardless of race, want — these inalienable rights for themselves and their families. • Last, but not least, heahh, housing and employment opportunities need to be available for all Native Hawaiians without prejudice to ineome, educational degree, social status or political connections. As an OHA trustee, how would you
resolve those concerns? As an OHA trustee, I would be part of the solution by soliciting eommunity input and presenting creative ideas that foster a win-win situation and atmosphere for all concerned. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? I would work to change OHA's quasi-state agency status and establish an independent organization that ean respond to the needs of Hawaiian people in a timely and effective manner such as is done in the private sector to accommodate the needs of consumers. For example, I would work to ensure that the majority of the annua! budget of $15 million be used directly for services for our people rather than to support administrative fees of OHA.
ELECTIDN2D0a
Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
. t» m The views and opinions expressed T 3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large not necessarily reflect those of ■ 5^ the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. |SEATS| 2-YEAR TERM
Miehael Paleie
Resident of St. Louis Heights, married, 5 1 years old. Hānai to the Kanahele family of Waimānalo. Small business owner of MacMouse.Com, a sales and service firm for Macintosh computers. Bachelor's degree in economics and computer sciences, UCSD. Active in Hawaiian health and community issues for 22 years, politically active for 15 years. Past board member and executive director of Hina Mauka; staff, American Heart Association, MDA, Hawaiian Humane Society. Elected representative, three terms, Diamond Head/Kapahulu/St. Louis Heights Neighborhood Board #5. Past candidate for State House against current speaker, Calvin Say, and for City Council. Past President, St. Louis Heights Community Association. "Ask NOT what Hawai'i ean do for you..." For too long, those who have been crowned, elected and appointed as leaders in Hawai'i have been catering to the worst traits in all of us: those
of selfishness and greed. They and their friends have grown rich. Unfortunately, strong feelings of envy and greed have infected many Hawaiians, historically the most giving and sharing people on Earth. Those from the Big Island coveted the lands of others, and Kamehameha led an invasion of other islands and took the wealth. Left adrift in the 19th century by the ravages of disease, avaricious foreigners and the ineompetent and wasteful Kalakaua dynasty, Hawaiians in the 20th century have fallen prey to socialist schemes and other social and political redistribution shibai. Mueh is promised, and our leaders swear they "feel our pain," but they continue to get rich while thousands die on the waiting list for Hawaiian Homes, and thousands more families lose their eligibility because of declining blood quantum. We are given OHA, but greedy and publicity hungry leaders make OHA's board a laughingstock. None of the lawyers in the '78 ConCon,
including a future governor, could foresee that OHA was fundamentally flawed and eventually would be undermined by questions of constitutionality. Apology resolutions and Akaka's current bill are shoved through Congress without a national debate or consensus; thus any future peaee may be ripped from underneath us, just as OHA's structure was. Internationally, Hawaiians are known for sharing and aloha, but many have become greedy and selfish and rude. We are offered benefits whieh don't replace a long-lost way of life. The Rice decision and the current OHA crisis are a golden opportunity given to us. Rather than continue down the path of professional victims in need of compensation, or dispossessed people of the earth, or a class of people who are to be isolated in ever-deepening dependency, we must bravely assess the 2 1 st Century and make our plaee in it proudly. I promise to use all of my skills to
keep OHA meetings focused on eommon sense solutions that are fair to all concerned. We must also reject gambling as a magic solution to our problems. It feeds on the lie that luek, rather than hard work and determination, are the keys to success in our modern society. We must look to the fair distribution of limited resources to those Hawaiians most in need of our assistance. By switching from a race-based entitlement attitude to a need-based cooperative assistance attitude, we free ourselves from the chains of a professional beggar class, and help those truly needing help. A hand up to those Hawaiians needing it, and not a handout to those who think someone owes them a living. Eaeh of us must ask ourselves, "What we/I contribute to Hawai'i's future?" "Ask not what Hawai'i ean do for you. . ."
Note:
Victor Umi Peitier
Amajority of Hawaiians — Native Hawaiians — are in the "have-not" category; they have less than 50 percent native blood, and therefore cannot qualify for benefits from revenues derived from ceded lands. They have no voice. I would like, in my small way, to try to be a voice for them. I am a simple man, one small voice, but with a heart and mind determined to do the best I ean, not only for Hawaiians, but for all Hawaii. I feel the blood quantum of 50 percent for Native Hawaiians is unreasonable. There should be no
limit on quantum... even the smallest percentage of Hawaiian blood should qualify that person for benefits afforded by OHA. Quantum qualification would afford all people with Hawaiian blood an opportunity to participate in affairs that would affect them. There is no easy solution to the problems facing the Hawaiian people. At the moment there are too many factions proposing too many different ways on how to take care of a few people. I feel there should be one faction in charge of taking care of most of the people... all those who qualify.
Those chosen to be trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs should bring with them open minds and open hearts; and a willingness to do what they feel is correct in helping our people shape their destiny. One world, one race — the human race. Birth date: July 25, 1962/Honolulu, H1 Married (Nadine Kanani Johnson Peltier) Five Children
Education: Bingham Tract School; St. Louis School '80 Military: U.S. Air Force; Hawaii Army National Guard Employed: City & County of Honolulu Dept. of Environmental Services Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Division Honouliuli Treatment Plant 'Ewa
Charles Rose
Charles Rose was born and raised in Hilo, Hawai'i. He graduated from Honoka'a High School and earned his bachelor's . degree from University of Hawai'i. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA, the Secret Service Dignity Protection School in Washington, D.C. and the AMA Management School. Rose served in the U.S. Army in Korea and was in the Hawai'i County Poliee Department for 25 years, rising to the position of captain and retiring as head of the criminal investigations division. Subsequently, he served for two years as the division director for the Hawai'i County Eeonomie Oppor-
tunity Council. He is currently the senior staff investigator for the Office of the Federal Public Defender. Very active in civic, social and Native Hawaiian affairs, Rose has an impressive history of service to the community: He served on the Hawaiian Political Action Committee; served as a Democratic Party precinct vice president and president; participated in two O'ahu County and State Conventions; was involved for 10 years in the preservation of Ulup« Heiau in Kailua; and is first vice president of the Association of Hawaiian Civic Clubs as well as a member of three Hawaiian Civic Clubs (Laupāhoehoe, Kailua and
Honolulu) holding many leadership positions over the last 29 years. Since Januaryl999, Rose has been a delegate to the 'Aha Hawai'i 'Ōiwi (Native Hawaiian Convention). He was chairperson July 1999-July 2000. During that time he provided testimony to the U.S. Departments of the Interior and Justice; met with John Berry of the Department of the Interior and Patricia Zell, legislative assistant to Senator Dan Inouye, in Washington, D.C. regarding the reconciliation hearings and the Akaka bill; and served as a grants review panelist in Washington, D.C. for the administration for Native Americans. If elected, Rose's goal is to estab-
lish a stable environment of mutual respect, rationality, courtesy and accountability at OHA. His priorities are preserving the corpus and conducting operations in a sound, cost effective manner with clearly defined managerial and fiscal policies. He is also committed to serving OHA beneficiaries via the development of innovative programs with significant positive impacts on social, educational and political factors that affect Native Hawaiians. Rose is married to Rosemarie Gomes and has a daughter, Crystal Kau'ilani Rose-Towill, and a son, Kawika Charles Rose.
CANDIDATE5
MPM 'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the Eleeīion 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
^ i mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm ~3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large | SEATS| 2 - Y E A R TERM~I
John Sabey
John Louis Sabey was born in 1925 to John Samuel Sabey and Anna Kamakahukilani Kawai'ae'a. His experience in government dates to 1943 when he worked as an architectural draftsman GS-2 on Ford's Island in the Public Works Department of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Later, after attending the University of Hawai'i, he started
working for the Bureau of Plans in the City Hall as an engineering aide. He then became a drafting technician with the State Department of Taxation, Tax Maps Branch. He retired after nearly 31 years in city and state government. He also worked for the Liquor Commission. John has been a member of Central Union Church since 1932 where he
has been a deacon and choir member. He has also belonged to the Republiean Party of Hawai'i, the Republican National Committee, Loeal 677 of the Musician's Association (life member), the Hawaiian Government Employees Association, the United Public Workers, Hawai'i State Federal Credit Union, Sierra Club, the Hawai'i Bee Keepers Association, the Kame-
hameha Alumni Glee Club, and the Hawai'i Coalition for a Nuclear Freeze. Another interest of Sabey's is music. He has played piano in various dance bands over the years, and is an award-winning composer. He is currently a member of the Hawaiian Civic Club of Honolulu.
Earll Loyson Schneider
• The Office of Hawaiian Affairs, managed by its Board of Trustees, was created by the voters of the State of Hawai'i for the benefit of the Hawaiian People. That was 20-plus years ago. Since then, assets, property, ineome, revenues and money from taxes paid by all the citizens of Hawai'i, through their state government, has accumulated in the "OHA treasury," so that now its value is in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Yet, many Native Hawaiian people are little better off than they were 20 years ago. In some cases their quality of life is worse now than it was before OHA. Hawaiian Homelands lie fallow, unused and unusable. Native Hawaiian people are "dying," figuratively, to get their own lands and dying, literally, while on a "waiting list" to get on their own land and build a house. This is not right! Native Hawaiian people have the
worst rates for certain diseases, the lowest medical care rates, the worst school drop-out rates, the worst teen-age pregnancy rates, the worst criminal arrest and incarceration rates, and the lowest rates in most any quality of life indicator you care to evaluate in comparison to most any other ethnic group in the state. All the while, OHA has millions of dollars not used to benefit the Hawaiian people as Hawai'i voters intended more than 20 years ago. Some of my Hawaiian friends offered the observation that it is the many factions in Hawaiian society (just as there are many factions vying for supremacy in shaping the form of Hawaiian sovereignty) whieh caused the inability of past OHA boards to agree on solutions to problems that should have been within their grasp. When asked, my friends declined to run for OHA, as they also have family connections and friendly ties to many
of these different factions in the Hawaiian community. It was suggested instead that I run, as I had no family connections within the various Hawaiian communities — only interest, respect and appreciation for all things Hawaiian and all Hawaiians. This is why I am running to be, and want to be, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs — to try and get done the things that were envisioned for the Hawaiian People 20 years ago. The most important eoneem I see confronting OHA is how to get the infrastructure built, and to help as needed, so that all Hawaiian people who want ean build a home on their Hawaiian land to have the kind and quality of life they choose. Therefore, my immediate goal would be to build infrastructure-roads, water, power, waste disposal, schools etc. OHA's long-term goal should be to prepare to tum itself over to the government of
the Hawaiian people, whatever and whenever that is. To the position I bring education, experience, ethics and enthusiasm. I am a retired military officer and attomey, admitted to the Hawai'i Bar over 25 years ago. 1 have significant experience writing and reviewing administrative regulations and in standards of conduct and ethics matters. I have been involved in government contracting, and labor relations. During the last six years of my military career, I managed claims for and against the govemment-nego-tiating settlements and adjudicating payments. I also have experience in prosecuting and defending criminal cases, property law, family law, fiscal law,and in management and budgeting. My experience should help me to work with the other tmstees to benefit the Hawaiian people, as planned over 20 years ago.
Oswald K. Stender
Oswald K. Stender was born Oct. 8, 1931, and was raised by his tūtū wahine and tūtū kāne in Hau'ula on O'ahu. He graduated from The Kamehameha School for Boys in 1950, and the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa in 1958. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps and worked at Hawaiian Electric Company, the Estate of James Campbell (1958-1972) and the Grosvenor Estate (1972-1974). After leaving the Grosvenor Estate, Oz (as he prefers to be called) retumed to the Campbell Estate and served first as its chief executive officer, then senior advisor to the trustees from 1974-1988. He was later
appointed to the trusteeship of the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Estate and served until he tendered his resignation in 1999. He is serving or has served as trustee or director for Cash Assets Trust, Pacific Capital Assets Trust, Hawai'i Tax-Free Trust, Hawaiian Electric Industries and Grace Pacific. He currently serves in a number of tax-exempt, charity and non-profit organizations such as USS Missouri Memoiial Foundation; 'Iolani Palaee; 'Iolani School; Helping Hands Hawai'i; Mutual Housing Association of Hawai'i; and Pacific Housing Corp. Oz currently is a real estate
broker/consultant as is vice president of American Land Company. He lives in Maunawili with his wife, Ku'ulei (also a graduate of Kamehameha class of 1950). He has two children and three grandchildren. He would like to serve as an OHA trustee because he feels strongly that aside form the legacy left by Princess Bemice Pauahi Bishop, OHA is the only organization that ean serve the broader Hawaiian community. Oz brings with him not only a wealth of knowledge that he has gained through his many experiences in the business community, but also his love for the Hawaiian people. One of the most important issues
facing OHA, in his opinion, is the need to restore confidence in the organization among both its Hawaiian community and the broader community. He feels that the newlyelected board of trustees must eoalesce among themselves and bring closure to the ceded lands issue. Asked to give only one goal he would like to accomplish as an OHA tmstee, Oz stated that he would like to see the OHA trustees appoint and advisory board whieh would consist of OHA's constituents as well as the broader Hawaiian community to deal with issues that affect our people today as well as those issues Hawaiians could face in the future.
Dustin Toler
• — Why do I want to be an OHA trustee? The failures by the present OHA Board, whieh led to their removal, warrant a change in OHA. I believe it is time for a change in OHA and retum the power back to our people. I
represent this change on behalf of all kanaka maoli. What qualities would I bring to this position? As a homesteader I understand and have experienced mistreatment and
denial from the OHA board of trustees in the past. I am a native small businessman providing landclearing service. Along with my family we operate a nine acre organic farm and have extensive background on malama 'aina. Since 1994 I co-founded the organization called
Anahola Homesteaders Council (AHC) emphasizing on creating eeonomie development and job creation for my community. I currently serve as Executive Director in charge of planning and engineering for a project name "Project Faith." I am a trained grant writer and familiar with
ELECTIŪNē?DDŪ
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed 1 in the Election 2000 torum are of I the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
3 I Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATS| 2-YEAR TEBM 1
Dustin Toler (continued)
> Federal guidelines when writing grant proposals. For over 20 years I have been active in youth sports and presently serve as eoaeh for girls 1417 yrs community basketball. I emphasize the value of good teamwork, attitude, and commitment. What do I consider are the most important issues confronting OHA for the Hawaiian people?
The issues of: • Elderly care • Family HeaUh care • Education • Jobs creation • Acquiring land • Laek of support for community initiatives • People empowerment • Allocating funding to assist eommunity based planning • Providing an action plan to separate OHA from State control
As an OHA trustee, how will I address these concerns? I support: • Empowering Hawaiian communities to plan and make decision on what is best for their community • Allocate planning funds to support this process • Fund implementation plans as agreed by the parties • Increasing funding towards education and the development of Charter
Schools in Hawaiian communities. • Establish Ahupua'a councils on every island to discuss issues of importance • Support community based planning leading towards commercial development whereby creating jobs • Support beneficiary conference to discuss the issue on sovereignty
Mililani Trask
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? 1 am running for OHA to complete the term whieh 27,000 Hawaiians voted me in to office to do: to protect and defend the Hawaiian trusts and to bring accountability to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. What qualities would you bring to the position? My legal and investment back2round have been the most imDortant
skills needed on the OHA board. My ability to resist the pressure of private and political influence whieh has been applied to OHA and whieh has impacted the policy and decisionmaking of the Board has been a great asset. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The most important issues facing OHA are: 1) The Rice decision and the threat it poses to Hawaiian entitlements; 2) Hawaiian sovereignty; and
3) The state s agenda to control ceded lands trust. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? OHA should be playing a proactive ro!e in the passage of federal recognition legislation. In addition, OHA should be investing more of its capital in the areas of housing and health. The approach is to downsize and decentralize OHA, and to seek partnerships with others in the community- who work in the ares of heakh, education and housing.
11 you could only accomplish one goaI as an OHA trustee, what would it be? The most important goals in the area of beneficiary services are: 1) The creation of a housing corporation for all beneficiaries; and 2) The passage of an OHA health insurance program for kūpuna. The most important political goal for OHA and all of the Hawaiian people is the re-establishment of a Hawaiian sovereign entity.
Eloise Ululani Tungpalan
[w* "a nipa'a brought us together, I 1 let us do it again! As chair of the 'Onipa'a Centennial Committee in 1993, 1 was happy to see tens-of-thousands of people gather peacefully together to observe the exciting presentations that marked this solemn occasion. These centennial activities featured the basis for many of our claims for self-determi-nation and we hoped it would educate the people everywhere. Later that year, on Nov. 23, 1993, the Congress of the United States and President Clinton apologized for the illegal overthrow and recognized the harmful impact it had on our people. If elected to OHA, 1 want to diligently eonūnue to collaboratively work with others to pursue paths that will repair the damage caused by the illegal overthrow, while also seeking avenues that strengthen our people and their rights. Although 14 years in the Hawai'i
State Legislature as a representative and senator sharpened my people skills, last year I returned to the University of Hawai'i to hone my ability to mediate, negotiate, empower, collaborate and reform. For these efforts, I will receive my master's degree in Public Administration this December and, if elected, will be able to bring to OHA a sharp. analytical mind that is creative and open to new ways of solving problems. The many contacts I have made with the people I worked with over the years ean also assist me to better help our people. Unfortunately, Hawaiians are being inundated by the aftershocks of the U.S. Supreme Court's Rice vs. Cayetano decision. Segments of Hawai'i's citizens erroneously cite this ruling to justify dismantling educational, housing and heahh initiatives that have helped Hawaiians to survive. These individuals also speak of taking OHA's money and placing it in the state's general revenue fund.
They intend to destroy OHA's mission by taking its funds away! Circling our wagons to protect needed programs have also distracted efforts to settle the ceded !and issue. The solutions to resolving our problems may be clearer if we create many opportunities for community discussions and involvement. Empowering our people will not only foster a free exchange of ideas, but may solve our problems. Chances for success increase when everyone feels responsible for solutions to conflicts and are encouraged to openly participate in arriving at ways to fix what is wrong. Like many other Hawaiians, my 75 percent-Hawaiian mother, Louise Kapela, died before she was awarded her Hawaiian homestead. OHA must continue to establish opportunities. After waiting patiently for many years, our elderly kupuna ean no longer qualify for mortgages. Only with the help of their children will they be able to qualify for a home
loan. As our kupuna's advocate, OHA ean seek amendment to our congressional and state laws to enable the placement of a greater number of Hawaiian on Hawaiian homestead lands. My daughter, Lori, graduated as a medical doctor earlier this year. She is currently doing her residency at the Mayo Clinic and looks forward to the day she ean return to help the people of Hawai'i. She would like to practice in rural areas where there are few physicians. OHA ean play a major role in establishing clinics in the underserved, rural areas of Hawai'i. Many things are possible if people work collaboratively together to resolve their problems. In conclusion, I would like to offer my skills to serve all of you and humbly ask for your support in the OHA election. Please kōkua and save one vote for me in the special elections for an OHA at-large position. Mahalo nui loa!
John Waihe'eIV
|t was shortly after the 1978 Constitutional Convention. I ean still remember my late grandmother and some of my auntie's talking about this thing my father helped create called "OHA." "Grandma, what is OHA?" I asked. "Keoni Kawika," she answered, "OHA is the most important institution ever created for you as a Hawaiian." And at the time why not believe as such? Without the outside interference of the state interjecting its political agendas and interests into the mix, a simple dream was eminent:
nine individuals working in harmony, united together by one eommon goal of bettering the conditions of Hawai'i's indigenous peoples. So maybe the reality didn't exactly end up living up to the dream, or even coming close for that matter. Yes, OHA has been referred to as "chaotic," "directionless" and "irresponsible." Personally, the last time I remember OHA agreeing on an issue was when the state tried to steal its trust money. The beauty of the dream, however, is that it always had real possibility.
Ah, do I long for the days when we as Hawaiians had the luxury to take OHA for granted. When privately organized Hawaiian groups could condemn the Office of Hawaiian Affairs as merely an extension of the state, while knowing deep inside it would always be there for them. If only they knew what lay in store. Change is inevitable, but it should be progressive. In such a short time everything has changed. OHA has been around for over twenty years and was voted into
the constitution by all residents of Hawai'i. Then OHA grew its trust from $129 million to close to $300 million and suddenly it attracted a lot of unwanted attention. Everyone wanted a pieee of it, and went to the courts to obtain it. I've had even heard people accuse OHA of participating in reverse racism. Why? Was there something Hawaiians were getting that they didn't deserve? If Hawaiians were supposed to be getting everything where is the evidence of it in society? lf OHA was
CAIMDIDATES
^33Pn2*ECiIiIi > <I,I moho OHA - OHA candidates speak j
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of tbe Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
3 Special Election - Candidates Running At-large SEATS| 2-YEAR TERM
John Waihe'e IV (continued)
unconstitutional why didn't anyone fight it upon its conception and keep it from getting enacted in the first plaee? It was a simple matter of money and power. It was fine when Hawaiians had their little trust and did their little projects, but when things started getting too big it heeame time to pacify them. In light of recent events, I truly have a grave fear that there are outside forces that will not rest until,
like Hawai'i's sovereignty, the total annihilation of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is realized. I also truly believe that we ean stop this atrocity if we eome together as Hawaiians. This is the most important OHA election in the institution's history. The decisions made will not only determine what individuals serve as trustees, but whether OHA continues to exist at all. Change is inevitable but it should
be progressive. It is time to look at the candidates and decide who really has the passion, aloha, and energy for the office that is needed during this crucial time. Who is willing to fight OHA's demise, and who will simply allow it to happen quietly, or even worse eontribute to it. Let's not let OHA become another notch in the Twigg-Smith family's belt. Now is the time for all of us to
work in harmony, united together by the eommon goal of saving our Office of Hawaiian Affairs. "The most important institution ever created for you as a Hawaiian." I still believe in the dream. I believe it now more than I ever have.
Edwina A. L. Wong
My name is Edwina Annette Leialoha Wong born and _ raised on the island of O'ahu. My lineage dates back to 1817 when John Nettles Antony Chu Chu Gilman arrived in the Hawaiian Islands and married Louisa Piilani of Kaua'i. daughter of Kamili'i descendeni of Kualii chief of O'ahu and mother Kamoku. Later remarried Harriet Kapu of Ka'awaloa, Hawai'i. He engaged in shipping of produce and cattle between island ports. He performed many services for the early Hawaiian monarchy and rewarded with special land grants during the Great Mahele by King Kamehameha III. This in itself was unusual in as mueh as only Hawaiians were p>ennitted to own land in fee simple. Upon returning to Hawaii in 1847 from Spain, he discovered that squatters had settled on parcels of land belonging to him. Proof of ownership had to be established. The Foreign Register, Foreign Testimony and Native Testimony records of the land office contain complete records of
these land court hearings. Proof of ownership by Gilman was established by witnesses who verified these land grants to John Nettles Gilman by Kauikeaouli (Kamehameha III) in 1833. Later confirmed by Kailieawa, Guardian of the King, who issued the papers in 1835. In this land court testimony, Gilman is referred to as Kuewe. Kaikioeka Gilmans father-in-law. Why do I want to be an OHA Trustee? Because of the injustices that the Hawaiians have had to face since the overthrow and before and now. I like to talk story about my experiences growing up on the island of O'ahu, and Moloka'i. Born and raised on the island of O'ahu, Damon Tract the Honolulu International Airport, moving to Kāne'ohe in 1954 then back to Damon Tract and on to Molokai. It was here in 1958 that I was able to leam a little history of Hawai'i. It was here that I learned that statehood was
to happen and based on that I learned I did not approve of statehood. Maybe because my family or ancestors would loose their water rights of fishing on all the islands and because they would no longer own their land in ahupuaa " from the shore to the mountain top" on Moloka'i. Kaua'i, Hawai'i and Maui. It was here that 1 learned to love the oeean and mountains because it provided all six children including my aunties and cousins with food on the table and education for all. As a OHA trustee 1 want my ancestors to be able to experience what we experienced. Not always needing to go to the store to purchase their food since the oeean and mountains are there to provide. Now you go to Ko Olina on Oahu or along most shore line you have a public walkway. Signs along the shore Kapu, no fishing, private property. Before the Native Islanders had water rights and water managers and fishing was plentiful and not contaminated. Progress has brought greed and
injustice to the very aboriginal people that existed on these native islands. Now. The Westerners have assumed that the Rice v.v Cayetano (state) is the final issue and final answer. I as an OHA trustee candidate would like to educate those who have constantly criticized OHA trustees. I would like to enlighten the public to their rules how it is taken out like out of the Bible in content, and to enlighten the public toward a better understanding of the native aboriginal islanders, and to preserve the native aboriginal islanders cultural values, and promote the welfare of the native aboriginal people and to preserve its natural resources. By reading the above you will understand why, what, when, where and how I, Edwina Wong ean and will be your best ehoiee as an OHA trustee at-large. Want to educate everyone, because we are all related some how.
Jimmy Wong
Familv: Bev, Aloha Airlines; Doug, Kamehameha 1980, University of Denver: Dennis, Kamehameha (1981), USC; Dana. Castle High School (1982), University of Hawai'i; Kristie, UH Lab School (1994), Fashion Institute and Design Merchandising, LA. Education: Maryknoll High School; University of Hawai'i, BE (English), master's degree in education administration,
College of Business Administration, executive management: UCLA, graduate work. Professional Experience: Marketing and sales, transportation services; government accounting, budgeting instructor, USDA graduate school; English, special motivation instructor, Castle High School; business and education consultant; head basketball eoaeh, Chaminade University.
Legislative experience: Hawai'i State Senate, 1986-1988; chairman, military committee; member: eeonomie development, ways and means, education and judiciary committees; Hawai'i State House of Representatives, 1980-1982, 1986; Member: finance, education, eeonomie development and health committees; Senate Minority Office, chief researcher, 1977-1980.
Community service and organizations (past and present): Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce, Native Hawaiian Convention, Hā Hawai'i, Hawai'i Inventors Couneil, Royal Order of Kamehameha, Hawai'i National Educational Institute, Industrial Traffic Association, Kāne'ohe Neigh- borhood Board, Kāne'ohe Business Group, Windward YMCA.
Thomas M. Yin
Parents originally from O'ahu and the Big Island. Father retired military, briefly raised in the Lusitania area until family moved to the now-forgotten John Rogers Veteran Housing, and attended Kāloaloa School, Damon Tract, Honolulu. Plans to develop the Honolulu International Airport prompted our family to move in 1954, resettling in 'Aiea. Attended and graduated from Radford High School. Enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduation, traveled and lived on the mainland briefly, until returning to Hawai'i in 1965.
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? Set the pros and cons of OHA. and to gain the trust of the Hawaiians. What qualities would you bring to the position? Accountability (and have straight answers). What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people?
a) OHA: The fact that previous trustees f ailed to understand their leadership roles, and the fact that they have insulted the integrity and intelligence of the people that elected them to office. b) Hawaiian People: Education, the further and continued erosion of our indigenous rights, ceded lands and entitlements, and self-determina-tion. The separation of state and OHA, and to be responsive to the Hawaiian people. As an OHA trustee, how would you resoIve those concerns?
Pay for all elections expenses from OHA funds, thereby eliminating outside concems. If you could onIy accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Gain the trust of the Hawaiians and unite the Hawaiian people.
ELECTIDNeūūū
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 I Candidates Running for Maui I SEAT[~ ' 2-YEAR TERM
Genevieve Lehua Clubb
amilv Background My name is Genevieve Clubb, better known as "Lehua." I have lived on Maui for 20+ years, but I eome from Nānākuli. My mother was known as Mama Tote and my brother is Buffalo Keaulana. I also have a sister there named Mary Jane Williams and a sister in Waimānalo, Mary Ann Freudenberg. Aggie Cope and Hoalikū Drake are my aunts whieh makes Kamaki Kanahele and Henry Peters my cousins. I was born in Honolulu, lived in Kaimukī, moved to Nānākuli. My mother is a Mahi. her father was John Laukua Mahi from 'īao Valley and my tūtū is Annie Wilcox form 'Ulupalakua. My unele, Tom Hiona, was a well-known kumu hula. Education I attended Nānākuli School, Kamehameha School for Girls, Waipahu High, Leeward Community College majoring in human development and, in more recent years, attended Maui
Community College to leam electricity, blueprinting and Japanese. Achievements My family and I have physically built and sold five houses of whieh three are occupied by family. Five of those homes are in Wai'anae and I credit them to the gentleman who has been in my life for the past 30 years, Austin Lavoie. I have four daughters, one son and one stepson. Employment and involvement I work at the Maui Prince Hotel as a PBX operator and before that, Hawaiian Telephone and, before that, was a substitute teacher. I have been a member of IBEW 1357 and was a shop steward while at the Wailuku Hawaiian Telephone Company. For the past 10 years, I have been a member of the ILWU Loeal 142 Unit 2511. I am president of the Waiehu-Kou Hawaiian Homestead Association, and single-handedly put Waiehu-Kou on the map. I have also served as president of the Maui
Ahupua'a whieh is an affiliate of the State Council of Hawaiian Homestead Associations. Talent and beliefs I know how to negotiate and resolve concerns and coming out with a win-win solution. What is fair, is fair, there are no in-betweens. I believe in God, in family, in respect, in honesty, in dignity and justice, in that order. I will be an asset to our people because, not only am 1 Hawaiian, but I am Hawai'i, its heart and its pulse, its spirit and its determination to survive the hardship put on our people, but most of all to try my best with the grace of God to make things right, whatever the issues may be. I am a layman first, been there, done that and have overcome. Help me, help you. Issues You may ask me what the OHA issues are. OHA is the issue. 1. To recover more of our stolen inheritance.
2. To give more monies to the education of our children so their future will be comparable to the Western and international world of competition. 3. To give monies to the people for whom it is meant for. To help them build their own affordable houses, so to be able to live in dignity. To train them to build their own housing developments. 4. To create its own medical insuranee and policies for those who are in dire need and for those who want to join the program. 5. To allow our people to be shareholders in OHA's investments. To create a bank for our people. 6. To make better business decisions; to help Hawaiian small businesses, so they grow to sell Hawaii as truly as they are Hawaiian. Those are issues that I see and will help to implement.
Louis Hao
Why I want to be an OHA trustee: Currently, the greatest privilege and challenge of a leader of Hawai'i's people is to be a trustee of the office of Hawaiian Affairs. It is a privilege since Hawai'i is only as strong as its component parts, and the greatest potential of all parts must manifest, so OHA must become a catalyst for the eeonomie, educational, social and cultural maturity of native Hawaiians. Hawaiians must ho'opuka and all of Hawai'i will benefit. I have the unique perception of a full-blooded Hawaiian who earned two master's degrees on the mainland USA. I have both people and administrative skills. While I was using my skills for the betterment of Hawaiians, my term of office was interrupted. I want to finish my work. lmportant issues My fist challenge is to firm the status of the 1.8 million acres of cedes lands, and use this resource to benefit
Hawaiians. We still don't know the full inventory of ceded lands and how they are being used by the federal, state and county governments. Pursuing this is my priority. Second, recent court issues threatening the fate of OHA and its programs must be eonfronted squarely. I will pursue these issues with knowledge, experience, will and integrity. Profile Served as trustee from Moloka'i and Lāna'i from 1984-1992. Coarchitect of the Native Hawaiian Revolving Loan Fund Program. Developed self-help home building programs and mentored the first seven homes through their construction in Wai'anae. Chairman of the Board of Trustees, 1989-1990. County Services Administrator for Moloka'i and leader of Moloka'i Task Force in Eeonomie Development. Re-elected in 1998, representing Maui. Chaired programs, budget and land committees. Led these committees in international, national and
state forum on customary rights, eonservation and environmental issues. Accomplishments included making the Land Committee meetings islandwide allowing direct participation of beneficiaries. Addressed Kaua'i land development and salt ponds, participated in Multi-Lateral High level Conference-5, whieh hosted Pacific nations regarding management of migratory fish species in set. 1999. Participated in Multi-Lateral High Level Conference 6-6 to make amendment and alterations in eomplianee with testimonies. Represented OHA in Nahonal Marine Debris Conferences whieh addressed hazards to humans and wildlife, and pollution. Participated in Multi-Lateral High Level Conference - 7 whieh manifested an international management plan for the Pacific and surrounding Hawaiian waters. Visited New Zealand to learn Māori customs on addressing incarcerated Māori prisoners through Mahi Tahi system and cultural practices. OHA representative to Whale Sanctu-
ary and MPA programs in waters off Maui. Participated in Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Coral Reef effort in Feb. 2000 as a directive of President Clinton. Participated in Underwater Mining lnstitute at University of Hawai'i for proceedings about valuable oeean resources in Hawaiian waters. Coordinate meetings on Hawai'i to address Carbon Dioxide Sequestration, Mauna Kea Development, and H-3 highway. Hao is dedicated to ensuring that ceded and submerged lands are protected so that these lands will continue to benefit Hawaiians perpetually. Education Louis Hao earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Hawai'i and his master's degrees, one in sociology and another in eounselling, from Ball State University in Indiana. He graduated from Hilo and Waiākea Kai Schools on Hawai'i.
Rev. Laki P. Ka'ahumanu
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? As a minister, 1 find in the Bible that says, you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free! As a rotarian, the first outline to the organizations statement of Rotary is, Is it the truth? I want to ftnd out the core, what is the foundation of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs symbolism of
conduct; I want to know the truth of its existence, so I ean help to set my people free by knowing the truth! What qualities would you bring to the position? Fourteen years of experiencing the sheltering of to many homeless Hawaiians in their own home, to many unemployed Hawaiians; to many substance abuse Hawaiians; to
many uneducated Hawaiians, and to many encarcerated Hawaiians. I bring the promises of God's word spoken in the book of Psalm 33:12, Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD: and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. I bring the truth to this position to help set my people free. What do you consider the most
important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? Those in the position of leadership, that have held so many position in offices that should have helped our Hawaiian people reap the benefits of their heritage. lnstead, we have people with enormous salaries, grumbling; backbiting; and looking to benefit themselves, instead of the people that voted them in office.
I CAIMDIDATE5
EHlĒĒĒĒĒ^OIelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the r:,rr.rir:r: 1 Candidates Running for Maui those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. S E AT 2 - Y E A R TERM l I -
Rev. Laki P. Ka 'ahumanu (continued)
As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? Make sure that these leaders are aware that they have been voted in by the people, for the people. The concerns of these trustees is to look at
the issues that will benefit the people, in education, in health; in Hawaiian homelands issues; in financial business consultation, and mueh more. The bottom line is we have had leaders that have done too mueh talk-
ing and not enough doing, and the people loose. Change the leaders, and we change the outlook of the benefits for the people. If you eoukl only accomplish one
goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? To make sure the benefits for the Hawaiian people, get to the Hawaiian people.
Sam Kalalau III
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? I would bring new leadership and a fresh approach to solving the wide range of problems threatening the very existence of the Hawaiian people. To date, OHA has failed to have mueh of an impact on the status of the Hawaiian people as it relates to heahh, welfare, education or eeonomie self-sufficiency and in fact, conditions are deteriorating. I am committed to ensuring a new beginning for OHA and a new beginning for the Hawaiian people. What qualitics would vou bring to the position?
I have the drive, energy and motivation to accept the challenges confronting OHA. I am honest and have integrity and will make decisions in the best interests of the beneficiaries, never on a whim or personal preference. I am able to communicate effectively, listen to and understand the views of others and follow good advice. I am able to analyze problems and their solutions for both the short and long term benefits. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? Poor Native Hawaiian heahh status and socio-economic survival is a
continuing theme in the Native Hawaiian community. In this, the year 2000, the unmet heahh needs of the Native Hawaiian people remain severe and their heahh status continues to be deplorable. Native Hawaiians are still not at a level of heahh that enables them as a class of people to achieve a better quality of life. If we continue to ignore the seriousness of this problem, it won't matter how well we address the other issues - there will be no Hawaiians left to benefit from our successes. It is also critical that we secure the recognition of Native Hawaiians as an indigenous people and to reorganize a Native Hawaiian government as per the federal recognition bill introduced
by Senator Daniel Akaka. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? I would initiate and support programs that address the heakh and social service needs of the Hawaiian people; and maintain an advocacy/lobby effort to assure passage of the "Akaka Bill." If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? To improve the heahh and wellbeing of the Hawaiian people. 4
Charles S. Ota
Iam honored to serve as the first non-Hawaiian trustee for OHA. It is an honor equal to my appointment as a former regent for the University of Hawai'i at a time when the University was experiencing tremendous growth. And it is with great humility that the honor is equal to my service in World War II as a member of the 442 Regimental Combat Unit where I received a Purple Heart and a Combat Badge. These honors of serving on OHA and the UH Board of Regents have some eommon principals that I revere. They include a duty to serve the community with the passionate belief that we ean make society better for Hawaiian people. The privilege of serving you includes providing services that allow us to strive to be what we want to be, to understand what we ean be, and to know what we will be. Service includes challenging ourselves to have a vision to provide
financing for housing, education to better ourselves and heakh care to live longer more productive lives. My vision includes opportunities in eeonomie development in order to compete with the broader community and with a greater appreciation of the Hawaiian culture, the basis upon whieh we in Hawai'i live with eaeh other. I have dedicated my life to the principal of service to people. I have served on the State Land Use Commission, the University of Hawai'i Research Corporation, the Civil Service Commission. and the State Higher Education Planning Committee. These opportunities have resulted in understanding how planning for the future is paramount as we move forward. I have a good understanding that research serves as a critical eomponent in forging new industries. I am convinced that Hawaiians need to play a greater role at the University of
Hawai'i as many of the keys to moving forward begin with education and research development where Hawaiian ideals are merged with new industry and technology. For example, the high tech development of commercially farmed moi, opihi, and lobster in aquaculture facilities immediately relieves the reliance on our oeean allowing for the natural resources to replenish itself. Good planning remains a critical component to our survival as a people particularly in an island state where Hawaiian resources like the opihi is a rapidly depleting natural resource. As a former member of the Maui County Council in the 1980s I am all too familiar with the loss of Hawaiian lands and the cultural resources due to the rapid urban development of Maui. That experience has heightened my belief that Hawaiian lands must be protected and its cultural resources cherished for generations yet unborn.
Hawai'i is my home as it has been for five generations. My family has been a part of this great society and has toiled like many of you who may have roots that begin in the sugar or pineapple plantations. I am a great believer in education as like you, my parents always stressed to get a good education. Like you, I am grateful to have grown up among Hawaiians. I owe a lot to the-Hawaiian people, the host culture and the generosity they have afforded my family. I hope that . in a small way 1 ean serve the Hawaiian people as a means to repay my gratitude. I have been blessed to serve Hawai'i in many different capacities, some elected and some appointed. I commit to you my experience in these past responsibilities to work tirelessly to make life better for Hawaiians, as I firmly believe that as Hawaiians move forward so does Hawai'i. Mahalo for your kind consideration.
Edward P. Pelekai
Born and raised in Hāna, Maui, Hawai'i. He is the last of thirteen children. He attended Hāna High and EIementary School; Kamehameha School for Boys; Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah; and the University of Hawai'i. Served in the Air Wing of the
U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam conflict. He was honorably discharged at the rank of captain after six years. After his military obligation, he worked for the State Depārtment of Heakh, for the Federal Aviatjon Administration, for several government contractors in the "Star Wars
Program," and the nerve weapons destruction program. He was involved with several entrepreneurial endeavors including real estate sales, management and appraisal, janitorial, condominium furnishings and real property tax consulting. His reasons for running for the
Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustee position are: 1. To promote, protect and preserve the organization as it was intended; and 2. To counter the present governor's policies and actions concerning the organization and its beneficiaries.
p ELECTIŪI\ieDŪŪ
'Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidates soeak
The views anel opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
" r 1 Candidates Running for Maui SEAT 2-YEAR TER M
Jimmy Rust
Aloha, my name is Jimmy Rust and I am running for the Maui Seat. I was born and raised on O'ahu with roots in Kaupō, Maui. I was in the first graduating class of 'Aiea High School. After graduation, I joined the United States Seabees and served three tours in Vietnam. Before returning to Hawai'i, I married Cynthia Mattos of 'Aiea. We had 2 daughters, Tanya Kamalani Rust and Toni Kahealani Rust-Sipili, and have been married for 33 years. In 1973, we moved to Maui and decided to eall it home. I have been working in the construction industry for over 35 years and enjoy serving my eommunity by being involved in key
organizations. I have created and supported organizations such as the Pueo Coalition, Maui Eeonomie Opportunity, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity and the Maui County Board of Water Supply to name just a few. I have always taken the "behind the scenes" job and felt it was now time to step out and be a voice for the people of Hawai'i. I found the questions whieh were addressed to the candidates in the Ka Wai Ola O OHA interesting and chose to keep my article as brief as possible. The following is my responses to those questions. Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? I believe we need to find more
ways to give more money to the people than what it currently costs OHA to exist. I have the perseveranee, ability and experience to help find these possibilities. What qualities would you bring to the position? 1 will bring experience, leadership and understanding I have worked with diverse groups of people and I respect their points of view. What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The most important issue eonfronting OHA is the formation of a government and it's relationship with the greater society, the definition of
ceded lands, and the representation of its people and it's structure. As an OHA trustee, how would you resolve those concerns? I believe that the best resolution of these issues is tolerance, acceptance and dialogue. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? I believe our people have simple lifestyles. Their biggest challenge is homeownership. Money for infrastructure on Hawaiian Homelands could ease that challenge enabling our people to focus on more important things.
1 Candidates Running for O'ahu S E AT 2-YEAR TERM
Clayton Hee
Mahalo piha iā kakou pakahi apau. Thank you for the privilege of serving you. It has been a great honor to serve as an Office of Hawaiian Affairs Trustee for the past ten years. During that time I have been a part of the growth of OHA's assets from 19 million dollars in 1990 to almost 400million today. As an OHA Trustee we often get caught-up in debates regarding the decision-making process, and we forget to take time to appreciate those whom we are privileged to serve. The following is a sliceof why I proudly serve as an OHA Trustee: Larry Kimura, Pila Wilson, Kananoe Kamana, Kalena Silva, Haunani Bernardino and Keiki Kawai'ae'a wrote, "The Hawaiian Language College was built and stands as the first native language college in Hawai'i and America — we have not forgotten your hard work in building this dream."
On October 25, 1996, Hiapo Perreira, teacher at the University of Hawai'i at Hilo and Nāwahīokalani'ōpu'u, wrote, "This is just a mahalo for all that you have done to make the Hawaiian Studies Masters Program a reality...a taste of what our people deserve." On May 8, 2000, Charles "Kale" Naumu, Principal of Kula Kaiapuni 'O Ānuenue wrote, "Congratulations on OHA's successful efforts on behalf of the Hawaiian Language Immersion Programs. Too often only the negative things get noticed and publicized...MAHALO, for defending and protecting the Hawaiian programs." On Nov. 18, 1996, Kai Koa David, a student who participated in Nā Pua No'eau wrote, "if it had not been for you, I would not have gained the skills I obtained from Kumu Moana Lee...benefiting Hawaiian children, such as myself." On Sept. 24, 1996, Dr. Judith Timbers, principal at Varsity lnternational School, wrote, "Thank you for your
financial support of the Varsity High School Diploma Project. We have already admitted two Hawaiian 'at risk' students, who were ready to drop out of school but are now very motivated and attend school regularly." On July 15, 1996, Philip Ana. O'ahu core services coordinator of the Hawai'i Centers for lndependent Living, wrote, "Mahalo nui loa for the purchase of the Rainbow Reading Maehine for the Hawai'i Centers for Independent Living. The acquisition of this device has made it possible for visually impaired people like myself to gain access to written material independently, without depending on a sighted person to read to me." On Aug. 25, 1997, June Motokawa, president of the Hawai'i State Teachers Association, wrote, "On behalf of all our teacher-delegates to this summer's National Education Association convention, I want to convey our deep appreciation for your donation to our state contact gift program." On Aug. 27, 1996, Gail Gnazzo, executive director of Maui Youth and
Family Services, wrote, "I would like to take this opportunity to say mahalo on behalf of all the Native Hawaiian families and youth we serve, OHAs grant was used to assist Hawaiian youth in need of emergency shelter." It is a profound privilege to appropriate financial resources to help organizations and community groups who have long labored on their own - with little or no assistance - on behalf of our people. But even more rewarding and satisfying are the opportunities to aid Native Hawaiians on an individual basis, especially our 'ōpio, our future. While there is so mueh more to be done, it's also important to thank the staff of the Offtce of Hawaiian Affairs who take the time to make our days a little brighter, work tirelessly to serve the Hawaiian people and strengthen my resolve to serve you so mueh stronger. Mahalo piha iā 'oukou a pau.
Vicky Holt-Takamine
Victoria Mirtle Hanaka'ulani O Kamamālu Holt Takamine Native Hawaiian, Cultural Practitioner, Educator Before you cast your very precious vote for any candidate, ask yourself one question: What has this candidate done for Native Hawaiians in the past? 1 have a proven record of advocating for the rights of Native Hawaiians. Protecting Native Hawaiian Gath-
ering Rights; Co-founder and President, 'īlio'ulaokalani Coalition; coordinated gathering of over a thousand kumu hula, chanters, drummers and dancers to successfully kill • Senate Bill 8 and House Bill 1920 whieh would have diminished the gathering rights of Native Hawaiians. The following year we participated in a march from Thomas Square to the State Capitol to successfully defeat a bill that would negatively impact our Homesteads and ceded lands.
Preservation of the natural and cultural environment of Hawai'i Co-founder and President, KAHEA: The Hawaiian Environmental Allianee, a community-based organization that stands for the protection, preservation and r*estoration of environmental and cultural resources that are special and unique to Hawai'i; partner with Environmental Defense/Action network; facilitated workshops relating to the protection of the
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands; actively opposing the erection of 138kv power lines along the Wa'ahila and Pālolo Ridges; Actively opposing further development of Mauna Kea. Perpetuating Hawaiian Cultural Traditions Kumu hula. Pua Ali'i 'Ilima; lecturer. Hawaiian dance, music & culture at UH Mānoa, Leeward Community College and University High School;
■ CAIMDIDATE5
na moho OHA - OHA candidates speak
The views and opinions expressed in the EleeUon 2000 forum are o. the individual "| CdndidatGS R II H 11 j H Q fOr O'ahll candidates and do not necessarily reflect WW iv«iv«l**vw ■ ' wl w **"** those of the 0ffice of Hawaiian Affairs. I SEAT 1 2- YE AB TERM I 1
Vicky Holt-Takamine (continued)
judge, Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Political Activist Co-founder and president, Aloha 'Āina party, a new political party guided by the following principles: Preserve and restore our natural environment, Protect our indigenous right to self-determination and sovereignty for kanaka maoli; uphold the issues of equality, justice and non-violence; advocate for basic human and civil rights; overcome the barriers to Hawaiian education, heaUh. housing and human services; support an open political process and public campaign funding.
'Ohana I was raised in Mā'ili and Kalihi. I now reside in 'Aiea with my husband Ed, Grandma Takamine and 'īlio, Piko. Father: Charles Kānekaiwilani Holt, retired, land surveyor for the State of Hawai'i and past president of HGEA. Mother: Frances Kalei Holt, retired, receptionist for Bishop Museum ■ and 1962 Aloha Week Queen. Sister Charlene Kalei'alalokelani, kumu hula. Brothers: Charles Kānekaiwilani, former firefighter, chef in Vancouver, Washington; Milton Ikaika, former State Senator; Albert Kalokuokamaile o Kamehamehanui, musician. Husband: Edwin Masami Takamine, postal worker, US Postal Service. Sons: Jon Miehael
Keali'iokaloa, Aloha Airlines pilot; James Mitchell Keolamailani, graduate student, Harvard University; Jeffery Mihon Kānekaiwilani, front desk receptionist, 'Ilima Hotel. Granddaughter: Nieole Mēi Lan Kaleihiwa o Keali'iokaloa, daughter of Jon & Elise. Education 1965 Kamehameha School for Girls; 1975 'ūniki as kumu hula from Maiki Aiu Lake, Hālau Hula O Maiki, 1980 AA, liberal arts, Leeward Community College; 1986, BA, music (dance ethnology) University of Hawai'i Mānoa 1994: MA, theatre & dance (dance ethnology) University of Hawai'i Mānoa.
As an OHA trustee I pledge to * continue to strive for the rights of Native Hawaiians, the protection, preservation and restoration of our natural and cultural environment, better educational and social opportunities and increase health coverage and programs for Native Hawaiians. 1 will strive to make Hawai'i a better plaee. Vicky Holt-Takamine for O'ahu OHA Trustee fundraiser, Thurs., Oct. 12, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Pu'uhale School, 345 Pu'uhale Rd. For more information eall 754-2301. Donations may be made payable to Friends for Vicky Takamine, 98-614 Kaimū Lp., 'Aiea, HI 96701.
Richard Thompson
Areplica of His Majesty's Bark Endeavor circumnavigated the globe June 3, 2000. James Cook, captain of the original Endeavor, was killed on the island of Hawai'i. Lord Moreton, president of The Royal Society (the scientific body whieh proposed his voyage of discovery) admonished Cook in 1768 to "exercise the utmost patience and forbearance with respect to the natives of the several lands where the ship may touch: to eheek the petulance of the sailors, and the wanton use of fire arms; to have still in view that shedding the blood of these people is a crime of the highest nature. The natives should be treated with distinguished humanity, and made sensible that the crew still considers them the lords of the country. The Natives may naturally and justly attempt to repel intruders, whom they may apprehend are eome to disturb them in the quiet
possession of their country: They are, in the strictest sense of the word, the legal possessors of the several regions they inhabit." Cook said of the Australian Aborigines: "[AlthoughJ they may appear to be some of the most wretched people upon Earth, in reality they are far happier than we Europeans; being wholly unacquainted with the conveniences so mueh sought after in Europe, they are happy in not knowing the use of them. They covet not magnificent houses, house-hold-stuff & e, they live in a warm and fine climate and enjoy a very wholesome air, so that they have very little need of clothing and this they seem to be fully sensible of, for many to whom we gave cloth & e to, left it carelessly upon the sea beach and in the woods as a thing they had no manner of use for. The Earth and sea of their own accord furnishes them with all things necessary for life; they live in a tranquillity whieh isn't dis-
turbed by the inequality of condition." But just when it seems that Cook may be written off as a disciple of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, he is busy hoisting an Union Jack and claiming "New South Wales" in the name of George III. This year Noumea, New Caledonia will have more spies per square ineh from Oct. 23- Nov. 3 than at any time since Paul Gaugin and Henry Adams reconnoitered the South Pacific for France and the United States, respectively, in the XIXth Century. The largest United States delegation is from Hawai'i, but American Samoa, Guam and other United States protectorates will all have delegations. In all, 2,500 participants from 27 countries and/or protectorates will attend. Those of us who watched the first dream-time sequence at the inauguration of the 01ympic Games, culminating when the final torch bearer of
aboriginal descent, a runner in the 400-meter race named Cathy Freeman, traipsed into the artificial lake where she lighted the Big Ring — already have some (highly commodified) notion of the performance of the Torres Straits Islanders' delegation to the 8th Festival of Pacific Arts in Noumea.The Fijian hula dancers will ^ be mesmerizing, as always.The great ocean-going canoes from AotearoaNew Zealand, the Cook Islands, and Vanuatu will eome ashore at a beach near the Tjibaou Cultural Center. Also: Papua New Guinea, the Solomons, and Fiji, are hot spots, and their delegations will be closely observed by the CIA and its Australian, New Zealand and French counterparts. In addition to Noumea, events will be held on Mont-Dore, Kone on Poinimie and on Lifu in the Loyalty Islands.
Greg Wongham
OHA Trustees aie like Bishop Estate trustees! Use your vote to fight corruption in Hawa'i. Wongham is for the people. Hawai'i's outspoken critic of corruption in Hawai'i. WONGHAM BROUGHT YOU THE SCOOP ON: • The Bishop Estate scandal. • The scheme behind the theft of $64.5 million from the State Department of Transportation (airports division) to set-up Waihe'e and Tom Enomoto with the Hawai'i Super Prix. • The scheme to kiek out the VFW and then turn around and give their lot to a foreign national (Sukamto). That's a ceded land issue. • The way the maehine used former
(DLNR) Deputy Director, Edgar Hamasu to fleece the VFW, Why? To save Ariyoshi's client lst Development and their parent eompany Daichi Fudusan, a Japanese bank. That's a ceded land issue. • The way the maehine set up insiders to reap the profits at the State Convention Center. That's a ceded land issue. • The way the maehine has been parceling off the greatest revenue generating lands to political insiders. That's a ceded land issue. • The facts behind OHA's administratpr Randall Ogata and his ties to the Demōcratic maehine. This too, is a ceded land issue. Ask Greg why? WONGHAM • Fought to get the Hawaiian eanoe
clubs 55-year leases. • Lobbied the City Council to have the Ala Wai designated as the "International Home of Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Paddling and Training." save the Ala Wai. That's a ceded land issue. • Fought to oppose the administration's attempts to privatize and commercialize all of Hawai'i's shoreline lands this would have adversely effected fisherman, boaters, surfers, golfers (Ala Wai), paddlers and beachgoers, while enriching their insiders with sweet heart deals on ceded shoreline lands. This, too, is a ceded land issue. Vote for someone who has fought to rid the State of corruption. Tired of the politics in OHA? Tired
of the ego trips and power-plays? Hawai'i's Politicians tell you that privatization and commercialization is good for Hawai'i. They want the publie to think smaller government means less taxes. Then they favor their insiders with muhi-million dollar sweetheart deals. Insiders get land and money set-aside for public projects. Voters pay. Corruption in Hawai'i cost taxpayers more than we realize effecting public education, welfare and heahh programs. OHA trustees are the last line of defense. It's time for a change! Vote Wongham for OHA trustee.
ELECTIONEDDŪ Olelo na moho OHA - OHA candidate* *p(*ak
The views and opinions expressed in the Election 2000 forum are of the individual candidates and do not necessarily reflect those of the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
1 Candidates Running forēloloka'i/Lana'i | SEAT 4-YEAR TERM
Samuel L Kealoha
Why do you want to be an OHA trustee? Prior to OHA's first election in 1980, I took up the task of educating the people, who have long been recognized by the United States Congress since 1920, and the Admissions Act of 1959, as "native Hawaiians" with 50 percent or more Hawaiian blood, and that the OHA creation and its election process was a fraudulent scheme. My dedicated endeavor carried into the OHA election of 1992, to whieh I was elected. 1 continue this honor of educating the "native Hawaiian people," that despite the years, including the latest attempt by deviating politicians in their intentional interference and persistent undermining scheme to defraud the "native Hawaiian people" of their rightful entitlements. TTie constitutional challenge by Freddy Rice brought out all the "non-profit" program rascals and state agencies, stampeding to the OHA "trough," and declaring "an interest" by filing their silly "amicus briefs" in support of Cayetano. But the great spectacle of this
"dog and pony show" is that it was a paleface haole, (the plaintiff) who made the statement in his appeal, "if there is anybody who should be voting in OHA it should only be the 50 percent + blood quantum "native Hawaiians." But the court said, "that was not the issue of this case." Well, where were the honorable bozos from Washington, OHA, and all the cunning non-profit organizations, when it was their duty to make it an issue and speak up in behalf of the 50 percent + blood quantum "native Hawaiian people"? Contrary to what many people have been led to believe, but the long sought systematic dismantle and destruction of the "native Hawaiian peoples" constitutional liberty is not the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in favor of "Unele Freddy." The honor of this diatribe belongs to Hawai'i's federal delegation, who are now scrambling to save their honorable 'okoles! Even though the mandate under the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1920, and the Admissions Act of 19S9, is very clear in eomplianee of its own
laws and duties of "instituting proceedings" against the State of Hawai'i, for the long and shameful history of precedent peculation amid insolent political corruption. The "native Hawaiian people" has accepted it as a fact of life that this will never become a reality! The "Submission of Reconciliation Testimony" to the Department of Justice and Interior by OHA, insults our kupuna who filed a "Petition against Annexation" where the "native Hawaiian people," who have long been the sacrificed "ho'okupu," is now OHA and Hawai'i's federal de!egation's handdelivered scapegoat! What qualities would you bring to the position? The quality I bring, is I am forever loyal to "the betterment of the conditions of the native Hawaiian people." 25 years of my record speaks for itself. Since the creation of OHA, I have witnessed very few "elected" people that the "native Hawaiian people" ean trust. As a matter of record, as a former trustee, there was one elected individual
who intentionally committed perjury, and is yet to be prosecuted! What do you consider the most important issues confronting OHA and/or the Hawaiian people? The most important issue confronting the OHA institution is their persistent denial, that the Rice vs. Cayetano has uncovered the scam on the "native Hawaiian people!" As an OHA trustee, how wouhl you resolve those concerns? As an elected OHA trustee I would facilitate the decolonization process and set the long sought goals of the "native Hawaiian people," for "self-determina-tion" with the breakaway of the "wardship" status and return the "Akaka Bill," to the anus of the political party that has been in charge since 1959. If you could only accomplish one goal as an OHA trustee, what would it be? Retum to answer above.
Colette Machado
This is a tumultuous period for Hawaiians. Hawaiians are being pulled in the wake of America's color-blind policy and ultra-conser-vatism with respect to diversity issues. The impact of the Rice v. Cayetano case is being felt across the board, jeopardizing all Hawaiian entitlements and leaving the corpus of Hawaiian trusts and entitlements, including Hawaiian Home Lands, accessible and vulnerable to use by non-Hawaiians. lt is essential that Hawaiians become leaders in the management of resources available to them. As trustee for Moloka'i and Lāna'i my eoneem has always been to build upon the grass roots foundation of our people. Today, we must continue looking to the source for guidance. Ho'omana or pule should be the foundation. Faith in eaeh other will be the comer stone. Our culture and spirit the mortar that binds everything. And, the wisdom of our kupuna to guide our actions.
In less than four short years, I was one of a few minority trustees (and often a slim majority) who helped navigate OHA through many storms while protecting the Trust for our beneficiaries. My role as a leader was quickly acknowledged by my peers as evidenced by my tenure as vice chair of ihe board of trustees, chair of OHA's budget and finance, programs and legislative committees. Although the OHA trail has been very stressful at times, I have managed to weather the storm by focusing on the needs and rights of our people. In my tenure, I've been able to demonstrate, through hard work, my ability to represent the best interest of our people: As the committee on program management chairman: • Developed a comprehensive evalualion procedure to review the viability of OHA's various programs. • Pushed OHA's Administration to streamline the grants process to avoid delays with OHA beneficiaries.
As the budget and linanee ehainnan: • took the lead from the late Trustee Billie Beamer and marshaled the elean up of OHA's investment portfolio including the termination of a broker who was receiving unreported soft dollar commission returns estimated at nearly $700.000. • led the way for OHA's eomplianee with its investment policy • called for a elean and fair process for hiring OHA's investment consultant • moved quickly to create a Hawaiian inter-agency partnership for the development of the Moloka'i Kulana 'Oiwi Multi-Service Center. • and prepared investment manuals for trustee education As the legislative and government affairs ehaiiman: • successfully advocated for the funding of Maunalaha Valley and Kawananakoa Hall capitol improvement projects • promoted the passage of SB 2108 whieh authorizes a comprehensive ceded
lands inventory by the legislative auditor. OHA is truly at a crossroads. Our people must ctioose trustees who will walk on the road that best serve ALL Hawaiians. There is no time for those who continue to play unscrupulous polhieal games with our peoples' lives. The key in determining whieh path we take depends on how far back we will look for answers. Time to go back to the basics, back to the source and rebuild OHA with a clear focus and foundation. Remember that OHA is part of our Hawaiian polilieal genealogy. Though it may not have all the answers, it ean surely help Hawaiians regain our humanity and selfworth. I need your help again to protect Hawaiian entitlements at the Office of Hawaiian Affairs. I am asking that you share in a vision of an OHA that is managed for and by native Hawaiians. This dream requires a sound, moral and strong leader to bring OHA and the Ceded Lands Trust back into the Hawaiian community.
3 I Candidate Running At-large I o e A X O « aeAI b 2-YEAR TERM
George Peabody
Has the Office of Hawaiian Affairs improved your life, yet? Have you received a benefit eheek from OHA, yet? I am George ALOHA Peabody, candidate for at-large OHA trustee. I want to serve as your at-large OHA trustee because I believe that the $330 million dollars from ceded lands revenue that has been awarded and is entrusted to OHA should be put directly into the hands of the intended 65,000 Native Hawaiianbeneficiaries.I believe most Hawai'i residents agree with me on thisissue, that my proposal is in the public interest. Eaeh Native Hawaiian beneficiary is a sovereign individual who has a right to determine for himself what is the best way to spend his share of the millions of dollars entrusted to OHA. I believe OHA trustees should give the money to the Native Hawaiians, now, so they ean exerci.se individual sovereignty to improve their own lives however they
believe is best. As an at-large OHA trustee repreSenting the interests of all residents ofHawai'i, I will advocate my stated goal of an expeditious distribution of the OHA millions directly to the intended Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. It is in the interest of all Hawai'i residents to have the weakh and power of OHA diminished so that the sovereignty of eaeh individual ean be increased in practical terms by putting the OHA money into the hands of individuals, the intended Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. OHA's $330-M bank account is your money, held in trust for you. But it is inaccessible to most Native Hawaiians because of the OHA bureaucracy that spends the money as they see fit. The Office of Hawaiian Affairs is a freak appendage of the state government, and as a trust created to manage the money, OHA has deprived Native Hawaiians of their individual sovereignty. Individual
Native Hawaiians are not allowed to spend their money held in trust by OHA as they see fit. As long as OHA controls the 20 percent of funds derived from ceded land revenues that the legislature mandated to be set aside specifically for the benefit of Native Hawaiians, it will remain impossible for the intended Native Hawaiian beneficiaries to equally share in the utilization of those funds. As an at-large OHA trustee representing the interests of all residents of Hawai'i, I will advocate an expeditious distribution of the OHA millions directly to the intended Native Hawaiian beneficiaries. And 1 hope to have a procedure adopted as policy by the OHA board members to limit the functions of OHA mainly to receiving funds mandated for Native Hawaiians from ceded land revenue, and holding them in trust for the shortest possible time it takes to distribute the money to the intended Native Hawaiian beneficiaries.
I believe most Hawai'i residents agree with me that individual sovereignty for all of us is lost when a government agency such as OHA controls an individual's money. There is an additional $2.5-M dollars appropriated annually from taxpayers by the legislature to OHA and accepted by the previous trustees for benefits to non-Native Hawaiians. OHA's literature says this is done so that OHA ean service the "Hawaiian community in general". I say it is corrupt politics. I say this practice appears to be unconstitutional and should be stopped by an ethical board of trustees. As your trustee at-large, I will propose and vote to end this abomination. I am a Hawai'i resident since 1962, married, 55-years old, and currently reside on Moloka'i. If you have questions or comments, please email me molokaiman@flex.com or phone 1-808-558-8253.