Political File
News, notes and anecdotes on government and politics
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Legislative hearings set on key Hawaiian court cases
State Senate and House committees overseeing Hawaiian Affairs are holding hearings across the state to discuss two 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decisions in the John Doe v. Kamehameha Schools and Arakaki v. Lingle cases.
Hearings are scheduled tonight at 7 p.m. at Nanakuli High School, 5:30 p.m. tomorrow on Kauai, 6 p.m. Wednesday at the state Capitol auditorium, 5:30 p.m. Thursday on Maui, 7 p.m. Friday at the Key Project on Oahu, 10 a.m. Saturday in Kona and 3 p.m. Saturday at Hilo High School.
For more information, contact the office of state Sen. Colleen Hanabusa at 586-7793.
Web site honors Fong
The family of the late Hiram Fong, the first Chinese-American U.S. senator and a pioneer in Hawaii's history, has launched a Web site to commemorate his legacy.
Senatorfong.com went online Oct. 15, on what would have been his 99th birthday. The Web site details his rise from a poor neighborhood in Kalihi to the halls of the U.S. Capitol.
The Web site includes past new articles, awards, letters, pictures and videos.
Fong's grandchildren, cousins and family members helped to create the Web site, beginning in July.
"If the next generation didn't love and respect their grandfather so much, this would never have been completed in such a short amount of time," said Muffy Gushi, Fong's daughter.
Evan Leong said, "Uncle Hiram's life was not just an inspiration; it changed the course of history for all minorities in the world. We would not have the opportunities today without him."
Fong was a strong supporter of civil rights, an advocate for immigration law reform and helped to establish the East-West Center in Manoa, among his numerable achievements, Leong said.
The Legislature has commissioned a committee this year for perpetuating Fong's memory, which should give its recommendations in November, Leong added.
Women's issues talk set
In preparation for the 2006 election year, the Hawaii Women's Political Caucus will be hosting a "Talk Story & Strategy Session" on Nov. 16 at the YWCA of Oahu, 1040 Richards St., Room 307, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The session will be led by Annelle Amaral and Nanci Kreidman, caucus directors.
"In anticipation of the 2006 elections, we invited the public to come talk about the issues important to women, children and families," said Faye Kennedy, the women's caucus president, in a news release. "We want potential candidates and our current elected leaders to give consideration to our needs, concerns and suggested solutions."
Admission is free and light refreshments will be provided.