Jobs - Hiring for the 2012 Session

Who wouldn't want to work with these friendly and helpful folks?! This is the House recruiting team that you will meet at the various Job Fairs around the state. From left to right are Emma Perry (Journal), Rupert Juarez (Records) and Matthew Hanabusa (Tech Support)
2012 Classified Ad

The Hawaii Legislature has posted notices for House and Senate session jobs. Above is the notice for House of Representatives. More information can be found on the Legislature's website.

"Political Leaders' Use and Abuse of Social Media"

We wanted to share an excellent TEDx talk by Matthias Lufkens, social media architect at the World Economic Forum. Very interesting examples of world leaders who use social media in varying degrees of effectiveness. I particularly liked this line:

"Our world leaders, on social networks, when they do it personally, become human and accessible, and this is something for the man-in-the-street, something absolutely revolutionary. Because, today, we can simply send them an @ mention to get in contact with them, and my wish for the TED community is that you go out and you contact your leaders on Twitter and Facebook." Matthias Lufkens, @luefkens

Social Media tools can pose problems for lawmakers

Like any tool, the advantages and disadvantages lie in how it's used. One of the stories in the current issue of State Legislatures is about social media and becoming aware of some of the problems and pitfalls you may encounter - as lawmakers and staff.

Read the full story here.

For example, Shirley, a lawmaker, used Facebook as a campaign tool. When the election was over, she continued to use her Facebook page to communicate with constituents. Some of the questions to ask are:

*Can a government official use Facebook as a way to discuss public issues?

*If so, can an official limit access to such a Facebook page in any way?

*Do all members of the public have a right to see what is on a publicly maintained Facebook page? What about a completely personal one?

*Can an office holder "unfriend" certain individuals or remove selected posts on a publicly maintained Facebook page?

*If a Facebook page is completely personal, must the official confine all comments to personal rather than public matters?

The article gives another example on using blogs, as well as General Principles and ethical guidelines for legislative staff. Most legislative offices use social media in one form or another as a communications tool. It's a good reminder on always using social media with awareness and common sense.

Rep. Jo Jordan's Fall 2011 Newsletter

Jordan Fall 2011 Community Newsletter

House Finance on Kauai 2011

Chair Marcus Oshiro and members of the Finance Committee have been visiting sites on Oahu and Kauai recently in preparation for the 2012 session. They will be going next to Maui and the Big Island. In the photos below, in addition to Chair Oshiro, are Representatives Pono Chong, Isaac Choy, Ty Cullen, Sharon Har, Jo Jordan, Derek Kawakami, Dee Morikawa, Gil Riviere, James Tokioka, and Kyle Yamashita. (Mahalo Rep. Kawakami's office for providing names of the Kauai hosts.)

House Finance Committee members at Smith's Boat Service, Kamika Smith - General Manager

House Finance members with Kauai Taro Farmers - Michael Fitzgerald, Rodney, Karol and Lindsey Haraguchi, Charles and Diana Spencer, Mark Koga and Mr. Koga

House Finance members at Limahuli Gardens, Kawika Winter - General Manager

Should ziplines be regulated?

One to watch for next session...

According to the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, Rep. Mark Nakashima plans to re-introduce legislation in 2012 that proposes state regulation of zipline businesses. See story here.

A recent accident in Hilo at the Lava Hotline site reignites the issue of whether zipline activities should be subject to state guidelines for safety reasons. A worker who was injured on September 21 while trying to tighten a zipline cable was released from the hospital yesterday, but the business remains closed pending further investigation.

The bill introduced last year is HB1246. It adds ziplines under the category of "amusement rides" which are currently regulated under the boiler and elevator safety law. It also requires that zipline business carry liability insurance by a carrier licensed to do business in Hawaii. The bill was co-introduced by other Big Island representatives Chang, Evans, Hanohano, Herkes and Tsuji.

According to the Star Advertiser:

"Nakashima has consulted with Steve Gustafson, a board member of Professional Ropes Course Association, which has drafted a set of standards for ziplining courses and submitted them to the American National Standards Institute. Nakashima said he plans to use those standards in his bill.

Gustafson's company, Experienced Based Learning, has built five zipline courses in Hawaii, including one at World Botanical Gardens, seven miles from the Lava Hotline site."

Here's a look at the World Botanical site:

Will Hawaii ban tanning beds for minors?

California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law this week a measure that would prevent children under the age of 18 from using tanning beds. The law takes effect on January 1. At least 31 states regulate the use of tanning facilities for minors; Hawaii isn’t one of them.

Supporters of the ban contend that children overexposed to ultraviolet light have a higher chance of developing skin cancer later in life. Those in opposition of tanning restrictions for minors argue that bans will hurt businesses.

Reps. Mele Carroll and Faye Hanohano introduced a measure (HB653) similar to that of California during the 2009 and 2010 sessions. However, the bill never made it to a committee hearing in the House Health Committee. Will we see this issue, if introduced, go further in the 2012 session given California’s move to set a higher age limit?

Visit the National Conference of State Legislatures website for a list of laws restricting minors from tanning facilities in other states.

2011 Outstanding Advocates for Children

Pamela Young with Sen. Chun Oakland, Rep. Thielen, Rep. Mizuno, Sen. Pohai, and Sen. Ching

Thirteen individuals and organizations were honored today at the 2011 Outstanding Advocates for Children and Youth Luncheon held at Washington Place.

2011 Outstanding Advocates for Children and Youth Recipients

The Hawaii Meth Project – Cindy Adams has been the Executive Director of the Hawaii Meth Project, a non-profit organization utilizing public service messaging and community outreach to prevent methamphetamine use in Hawaii. Cindy has also created the Teen Advisory Council made up of students across the state to help the organization grow. The campaign "Not Even Once" has been a success in poster contest, media outlets, in schools and businesses. Because of Cindy, many teens make the right choice to be "meth free" and therefore, our community has been a safer and better place for our youth. Nominated by Colby Takeda.

Adult Friends for Youth was established in 1985 at the University of Hawaii as a volunteer mentoring program for at risk children. Today Adult Friends for Youth promotes educational achievement and offers a prescription of hope for significantly reducing poverty and destructive behaviors among at risk youth. AFY also provides for a Clinical Competency Based High School Diploma Program which provides students who have dropped out of high school the opportunity to obtain a high school diploma. AFY has reduced youth substance abuse and gang-related activities and have help at risk youth attain their educational and career goals and improved our community. Nominated by Ronald Oyama.

Malcolm Ching with family, friends and guests.

Malcolm Ching has been a visionary youth and family leader establishing the Hawaii Civil Air Patrol Wing Encampment which trains youth leadership development, aerospace education, emergency response and preparedness and the importance of community service. Often, a cadet's completion of this Encampment Program will provide them with the opportunity to receive advanced placement as an enlisted member within our Armed Services, advanced college credit within a college ROTC program, or support in an application to one of our prestigious military academies. Nominated by Rep. Ryan Yamane.

Graham Builders is a locally owned design/build firm which has, for the past 11 years, hosted and organized the annual holiday dinners for the Hawaii Children's Cancer Foundation, ensuring all children in each family receives a gift, even siblings of the cancer-stricken children. A special recognition to Danny Graham, CEO of Graham Builders, along with his wife, Charlotte, who took on the task of organizing Hawaii Children's Cancer Foundation's annual holiday party. Nominated by Tracy Aiwohi.

Joshua Beal has shared his time to AccessSurf Hawaii every month to help deaf and handicapped children learn to surf and has been teaching American Sign Language to at risk youth from the Waianae area. Joshua Beal also delivers hot meals to the homeless during his free time. Nominated by Amy Hammond.

Help the Hawaii Homeless is a homeless service organization which seeks to assist homeless children, youth and families by way of services to coordinating communities opportunities and partnerships with a number of local agencies to provide essential services to homeless families in Hawaii. This program also sponsors return flights to reunify families and reduce homelessness in Hawaii. Nominated by Tisha Woytenko.

Kea'au Youth Business Center (KYBC) has served over 500 youth, won several state and national awards, produced approximately 30 PSAs and documentaries dealing with youth social issues like smoking, alcohol, drug abuse, domestic violence, and environmental issues such as recycling. KYBC gives economically disadvantaged youth access to state-of-the-art facility with quality equipment and professional trainers in areas such as digital media, art, culinary arts, music and recording. Nominated by Eugene McElroy.

Louise Kido Iwaishi, M.D. has been a champion for special needs children and as a pediatrician has served many special needs children. She is an advisor on the Good Beginnings Alliance board and on the Hawaii Early Intervention Coordinating Council and trains pediatricians in Hawaii. Dr. Iwaishi advocates for child health issues related to federal Title V Children with Special Health Care Needs as well as Early Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment, Autism Services Implementation and Children's Oral Health. Nominated by Annette Mente, Leolinda Parlin, Patricia Heu, and Keiki Nitta.


Kokua Kalihi Valley Comprehensive Family Services (KKV) provides holistic and comprehensive healthcare to the residents of Kalihi Valley, many immigrant youth and families who may lack insurance. KKV established the 100 acre park for learning opportunities for the youth in farming, exercise, reconnection with the land, and restoring ancient sites in Hawaii. In addition to healthcare for youth, KKV has been instrumental in educating Hawaii's youth on understanding the Hawaiian cultural values, the ecology, and unity by working together. Nominated by Judith Clark.

Pamela Young anchors KITV 4 News on the weekends and has been an 11-time Emmy winner and Peabody recipient and produces Mixed Plate which displays her critically acclaimed local prime time specials. Pamela Young is a well-respected and high profile personality news reporter and journalist, who has touched the lives of many in Hawaii with her empathy and passion, especially when featuring stories directly affecting Hawaii's youth on issues such as education and safety issues for Hawaii's Keiki. Moreover, Pamela Young has supported Sounding Joy Music Therapy, which provides for stimulating music therapy in rehabilitation for children and youth who suffer from a mental or physical ailment. Nominated by Keiko Kajiwara.


Certificates of recognition were given to Uncle "Mel" Murata, Bonnie "Pua" Case and Ewa Beach PONY Bronco Division Coaches.

Hawaii needs more federal funding for COFA migrants

Today, Representative John Mizuno held an informational briefing to review the human services issues related to migrants living in Hawaii under the Compact of Free Association (COFA), which defines the relationship between the U.S. and the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau.

The issue: the inadequacy of federal government funding to pay for COFA migrants’ medical and social services costs.

It was reported in a 2007 Department of the Attorney General study that the cost of providing all state services to COFA migrants was about $100 million a year. The Department of Human Services alone expended $52 million in COFA services in 2010. This year the state received only $11.2 million in grant funds.

Governor Neil Abercrombie is appealing a case that reinstated Med-QUEST for migrant immigrants this past January. The former administration placed COFA migrants in a program called Basic Health Hawaii, a less-costly, less-comprehensive health insurance program. A spokeswoman for the governor, however, has said that the administration will appeal "but has no intention to continue Basic Health Hawaii,” reported the online news publication Civil Beat.

Lawmakers and panelists discussed possible solutions to address the high costs to the state.

"The briefing was informative, however we have much to do as we seek to ensure essential healthcare for the Pacific Islanders while securing our fair share in costs from the federal government," said Rep. Mizuno.

They ideas discussed include:

1.) Seek an amendment of COFA to include greater reimbursement from the federal government.
2.) Work with state, federal, and private agencies for support and funding to invest in dialysis and chemotherapy centers in the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau to allow proper healthcare treatment services for their citizens.
3.) Liberty Dialysis, one of two medical center providers of dialysis services in Hawaii, has indicated their willingness to continue dialysis treatment coverage to COFA citizens if the state no longer pays for such coverage. Not certain how long Liberty Dialysis could sustain such services without pay.
4.) Continue talks with federal medical centers and the U.S. Department of Interior on the possibility of federal hospitals accepting COFA citizens for dialysis and chemotherapy treatment.
5.) Work with the home state government of Marshall Islands, the Federated State of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau on funding options for their citizens in Hawaii.
6.) Work with the state's administration and the Hawaii's congressional delegation on reducing costs and greater funding from the federal government.

Recognizing Hawaii achievers in Nevada

Shawn Toyozaki and Rep. John Mizuno

Rep. John Mizuno presented Certificates of Appreciation to former Hawaii residents who now live in Las Vegas, Nevada, and who have made significant contributions in both states.

Shawn Toyozaki and his wife Racquel Chung-Toyozaki both graduated from the University of Hawaii. Racquel also received a law degree from the U.H. Richardson School of Law. They started a company in Nevada called Advance Pro Remediation Co. - a building inspection business specializing in fire, water and mold restoration, structural dry-downs, and mold removal. Both Shawn and Racquel remain connected to Hawaii's community and contribute to Adult Friends for Youth. This organization works to help youth get out of gangs and directs them to trade school or college.

Rep. John Mizuno, John Wright and Jean Moriki

John Wright and Jean Moriki practice criminal defense law with the law firm of Wright and Weiner in Las Vegas. Rep. Mizuno worked with both Wright and Moriki as law clerks in 1991-1992 at the First Circuit Court, Hawaii Judiciary. Both practiced law in Hawaii before moving to Nevada.

John and Jean do volunteer work by holding educational meetings focusing on the democratic process, the rights of individuals, families, small businesses, and are great advocates for the right to vote to effect social change. John has also served as a per diem judge in Clark County.

October Issue of Prevailing Winds - Rep. Isaac Choy

Prevailing Winds Vol 3 Issue 9 - October 2011

People's Pulse Summer 2011

Now available online.

Pulse Summer 2011

House Finance Site Visit

Photo Credit: Rep. Marilyn Lee

Members and staff of the Hawaii House Finance Committee, chaired by Rep. Marcus Oshiro, are visiting sites around the islands to monitor projects that have received state funding, connect with the community on needs and concerns, and to prepare for next legislative session.

On Tuesday, one of the Oahu sites they visited was Kukaniloko, the Birthing Stones at Wahiawa. You can click on the photo to enlarge. Tom Lenchanko gave the committee a tour and history of this sacred place.

Maui Memorial Helipad Dedication

Maui Memorial Helipad Blessing. Left to right: Dr. Colin Lee, Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz, Rep. Gilbert Keith-Agaran, CEO Wes Lo, Rep. Kyle Yamashita, Anthony P. Takitani

- Photo Credit: Wendy Osher

On Thursday, September 22, 2011, Maui Memorial Medical Center dedicated the opening of a new helipad that will allow for faster transport of patients, especially cardiac patients.

The helicopter will begin trial landings on Monday, September 26, 2011. It is expected to save between 10-15 minutes over the previous landing site at the War Memorial Complex in Wailuku. The Maui delegation worked collectively to secure funding through the state legislature, approximately $3 million.

According to MMMC CEO Wes Lo, Maui is now the only neighbor island that is able to treat emergency heart attack victims. Lawmakers praised Wes Lo's vision for the project and his efforts to make it a reality for Maui residents.

See video and more photos at MauiNow.com.

DHS Confidentiality Policy

Pat McManaman, Director of Human Services, testifies before House Human Services Committee Chair, Rep. John Mizuno

Yesterday, Human Services Director Pat McManaman testified before the House Committee on Human Services on the department's confidentiality policy related to child welfare. At issue was the recent case of an unexplained death of a 9-month-old Hau'ula boy while in state custody.

The child, Jayvid Waa-Ili, was taken from a relative into state custody on August 10, 2011 and then died on August 26th.

Director McManaman defended the current policy to not release information in fatal cases. A full story appeared in today's Honolulu Star-Advertiser. Read here.

Chair John Mizuno has been critical of the previous administration's director Lillian Koller for releasing information on the state's website on fatal cases after seeing first hand how families and friends of the victims are impacted. Yesterday, he said that he liked where the current director is heading, noting that the confidentiality policy allows for flexibility when warranted.

Rep. Marcus Oshiro on Record Breaking CSGWest Meeting

George Kam, Brother Noland, Rep. Marcus Oshiro after the Opening Program at the CSGWest 64th Annual Meeting, Sheraton Waikiki

Next up on Jordan's Journal, Rep. Marcus Oshiro, who is the current presiding Chair of Council of State Governments - WEST, talks about the planning and successful completion of the CSGWest 64th annual meeting held in Honolulu July 29 - August 2, 2011.

Jordan's Journal is produced and hosted by Rep. Jo Jordan. The show airs on Olelo Ch. 54 at the following dates/times:

Monday, September 26, 2011 at 1 p.m.

Sunday, October 2, 2011 at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, October 3, 2011 at 1 p.m.

CSGWest is comprised of government officials from the 13 western states. It covers the three branches of government - legislative, executive and judicial. The annual meeting rotates between the western members; the last time the meeting was held in Honolulu was in 2003 when Senator Brian Taniguchi was chair.

Rep. Oshiro shares with us all that went into the extensive planning and preparation to host about 680 registrants, a new attendance record for the organization. Much thought went into ensuring that the aloha spirit was present throughout the meeting, starting with the theme of the conference - Halawai - where leaders gather, and the spectacular opening presented by George Kam, ambassador of Aloha, Brother Noland and the Chinky Mahoe halau.

Hawaii's private sector, including many in Hawaii's agriculture industry, were involved in highlighting local food and products throughout the three-day event.

Chair Oshiro will now be handing over the baton to Wyoming Rep. Rosie Berger who will Chair next year's meeting.

Waianae Town Hall on Education on Olelo

For those unable to attend Rep. Jo Jordan's Town Hall Meeting on Education, held on August 17, 2011, you can watch it on Olelo at the following dates/times:

Wednesday, September 21, 2011, 12 p.m. (noon) on Ch. 49 FOCUS

Friday, September 30, 2011, 4:00 p.m. on Ch. 54 VIEW

Here's the original post on the meeting. Special guests include Lisa DeLong Department of Education Complex Area Superintendent of Nanakuli and Waianae, and Dee Jay Mailer, Kamehameha Schools Chief Executive Officer.

Liz Chun to appear on Kukui Connection - Focus on Early Childhood Education

Elisabeth "Liz" Chun, Executive Director of Good Beginnings Alliance, will appear next Sunday on Kukui Connection, the weekly talk show hosted by Rep. Marilyn Lee. The show airs at 4 p.m., Sunday, September 25th on Olelo Ch. 54. (Repeats on 10/9 and 10/23)

Liz Chun has been with Good Beginnings Alliance for 14 years, but her connection to and experience in early childhood education goes back many years before that. Her education and training is in education, she worked at Headstart, ran a private business for 13 years on consulting with families on how to work with young children, joined the Governor's Office of Children and Youth in 1993, worked at the Department of Human Services in 1996, and then began with Good Beginnings Alliance in 1997.

Good Beginnings is what is called an "intermediary organization". They don't do direct service, but bring community concerns to others who do policy making. Their role is to encourage good policy for young children (0-8), and to help increase resources for this age group. They look at the full spectrum of safety and health, and how well children are ready to succeed in school. This includes prevention of child abuse.

Hawaii has good access to health care for young children, although there are still gap groups. Hawaii does poorly, however, in dental health.

Liz talks about how the poor economy has resulted in great cutbacks which have impacted children's care dramatically. They are working to provide continued support for children through other resources, including starting the children's advocacy project "Be My Voice".

Liz is encouraged that Governor Abercrombie has appointed Terry Lock to be the Early Childhood coordinator, and hopes this may lead to the development of an Early Childhood Education office.

Strategies include community mobilization, social media, and having people speak up and "be a voice."

There are 80,000 children under 5 years in Hawaii, and they can't speak for themselves. These organizations strive to be their voice.

The Good Beginnings website is here.

The Be My Voice campaign website is here.

In 2008, Liz Chun testified on Early Education in Washington DC before the House Committee on Education and Labor. Congresswoman Mazie Hirono introduced her in this video:

What's going on with UH-West Oahu?

Lawmakers are sponsoring a community meeting with UH-West Oahu Chancellor Gene Awakuni and other UH-WO administrators and faculty to share information on the progress of construction at the Kapolei campus, what programs will be offered at the new campus, and the opportunities for the community to partner with the university.

The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, September 21, 2011 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at Kapolei High School Cafeteria

The meeting is being sponsored by area legislators Rep. Henry Aquino, Rep. Karen Awana, Rep. Ty Cullen, Rep. Sharon Har, Rep. Jo Jordan, Sen. Mike Gabbard and Sen. Clarence Nishihara.

Lawmakers held summit on substance abuse

Representative John Mizuno, Senator Suzanne Chun Oakland, Representative Faye Hanohano and the Hawaii Substance Abuse Coalition today at the Capitol held a legislative summit and panel discussion on substance abuse.

Topics discussed included adolescent substance abuse, prevention, treatment, intervention, and the criminal justice system.

Panelists included Dr. William Haning, Professor of Psychiatry at UH Manoa John A. Burns School of Medicine; Janice Bennett, Hawaii Drug Court Administrator; Linda Rich, Executive Director of The Salvation Army Family Treatment Services; Alan Shinn, Executive Director of the Coalition for A Drug Free Hawaii; JoAnn Yukimura, Vice Chair of the Central Drug Prevention on Kauai; and a person recovering from drug addition and their family member.