[ STATE HOUSE ]

18
Hahaione Valley-Hawaii Kai

Lyla B. Berg

Democrat

Age: 53 Job: Educator/small business owner Past: Teacher, principal, university instructor; Kids Voting Hawaii

What qualifies you to be a state representative?

My career has been dedicated to being of service to youth, public education and the wellness of communities. I have been involved with initiatives designed to generate strong local leadership and inclusion of others. ...

What is the most pressing issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

The primary issue of crime -- burglary, speeding, property damage -- is directly related to the other major concern for public education. I would commence a shared initiative with the complex schools and community, including youth. ...

Do you support or oppose Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education? Explain.

A statewide board provides equity, cohesiveness and vision to fulfill the civic mission of public education. I support collaborative responsibility ... of complex-level councils to authentically engage communities in the governance. ...

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Bertha F.K. Leong

Republican

Age: None given Job: Legislator; Realtor, Prudential Locations Past: Former teacher; neighborhood board chairwoman

What qualifies you to be a state representative?

I've served on several key committees in the House; a teaching career; a community activist striving to serve Hawaii these past six years to make Hawaii a better place to live.

What is the most pressing issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

The communities I represent have many longtime residents whose major concerns deal with health issues such as long-term care and cost of prescription drugs. Also, the "ice" epidemic surfaces frequently. ...

Do you support or oppose Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education? Explain.

I support separate boards for each county because unfortunately our public school system has become more centralized with less power to the community.

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Mark Terry

Republican

Age: Not given Job: Real estate investor Past: Former neighborhood board chairman

What qualifies you to be a state representative?

I have experience as an elected official, having served on a neighborhood board, including two years as chairman. Was also active in preserving open space in East Honolulu. Fought to protect Hanauma Bay.

What is the most pressing issue facing your district, and what would you do about it?

Our neighborhood board took a survey. By far, the greatest concern is traffic. I would propose solutions and work with the City Council for solutions not requiring additional taxes.

Do you support or oppose Gov. Linda Lingle's plan to break up the statewide Board of Education? Explain.

I support allowing the people to vote on whether they favor local boards of education. Local boards could allow easier public access and quicker change in education. The huge bureaucracy has failed us.

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