Aloha!
Hawaii’s Primary Election Day is just hours away. Thousands of registered Hawaii voters have already cast their votes by taking advantage of the absentee ballot process. For me, I'll be in line Saturday morning, ballot in hand, ready to vote for who I think are the most honest candidates.
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Honesty? Okay, I hear yah, it doesn't seem to be a prerequisite for political office. But, I have faith that it may possibly exist starting with a crop of candidates seeking office from Pearl City. I had the chance to meet with the candidates recently and came away impressed. Democrat or Republican, the passion and determination to lead our community was exhibited by each candidate. Pearl City has a long history of productive elected representation at the Hawaii State Capitol.
Who to pick?
In the race for the State House of Representatives District 36 (Pearl City, Palisades) Democrat incumbent, Roy Takumi is facing Republican newcomer, Dr. Reed Shiraki. Representative Takumi has held the office since 1992 and is known to be actively involved in the community.
Dr. Shiraki is hoping to bring new energy and a new perspective to solving our economic challenges if elected.
Photos by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Representative Roy Takumi (D) (left photo) is being challenged by Dr. Reed Shiraki (R) (right photo) for State House District 36.
Democrat incumbent, Representative Mark Takai will face Republican newcomer, William G. K. Wong to represent State House District 34 (Pearl City, Newtown, Royal Summit). Representative Takai has worked hard in the communities he represents for years to address the concerns of the residents.
William G.K. Wong is a former teacher, vice principal and principal and has been active in his community for many years.
Photos by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Wiiliam Wong (R) (left photo, far left) is making a run against Representative Mark Takai (Mark's dad and supporter pictured in photo at right) in the State House District 34.
Pearl City High School Alumnus, Jon Riki Karamatsu is running in a very crowded field for the office of Lt. Governor. Karamatsu brings experience as a State House Representative for the 41st District (Waikele, Kunia, Village Park, Waipahu) and also has experience as Judiciary Committee Chairman. Growing up in Pearl City, Karamatsu knows our community well.
Photo by Barry Villamil | [email protected]
Pearl City High School Alumnus, Jon Riki Karamatsu (center) pictured with his Karamatsu for Lt. Goverrnor team.
Former Hawaii State Board of Education (BOE) member and active Pearl City community leader, Breene Harimoto goes unchallenged for the office of Honolulu City Council, 8th District representing Pearl City, Waipio, Shafter. Harimoto has many years of experience serving our community and will be a huge voice for the residents of the 8th District at Honolulu Hale.
Breene Harimoto (left), pictured with BOE candidate, Pamela Young (center) and Pearl City Community Association Board Member, Warren Horimoto.
I'm excited. I love to vote. It's our right as Americans. Let's get out on Saturday, September 18, 2010 and make it happen. From the Governor's office to the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, change is at hand.
Have a great weekend and hope to see you around Pearl City!
Reminder: Tonight (9/17) Pearl City Chargers vs. Kalani Falcons @ Edwin Bino Neves Stadium
JV @ 5:00pm, Varsity to follow
Go Chargers!
Barry A. Villamil
Web Editor / Community Liaison
MyPearlCity.com