“Who is this guy Gary Hooser and why is he emailing me?”

Excellent question, and I’ll jump right to it 😉

Probably my biggest claim to fame (besides having 4 beautiful grandchildren) is that I formerly served as a Hawaiʻi State Senator/Majority Leader (2002-2010). For those who want to dig deep, a full resume

If you’re interested in the “back story” you might enjoy this 700 word missive about how Claudette dragged me off the streets of Waikīkī…and my subsequent journey from pedi-cab driver to small business owner, to Councilmember, to State Senator.

The historical figures who’ve greatly influenced my world view, range from revolutionary leaders such Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, to writers such as Norman Vincent Peale (The Power of Positive Thinking).

The words and music of Bob Dylan are embedded in my psyche, and Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is always there to remind me about what a wonderful world we live in.

To stay healthy (mind, body, and spirit), I walk 6 miles a day (weather permitting).

My core values revolve around the premise that “We’re all in this together”.

I spend almost every day of my life thinking, writing, and working with others across all the islands – trying to help make our planet and community a better place.

Which is why I’m emailing you (and blogging the message also).

The United States of America is going to hell in a hand-basket.

The world seem perpetually on the edge of blowing up.

President Donald Trump, is clearly cognitively challenged and surrounded by supplicants and enablers, collectively drunk on their insatiable lust for power.

Here at home, hard-working local residents cannot afford the basics.

We have thousands of people living under bridges, on the streets, and in the bushes. I posted this 700 word piece in my blog a few months ago and the reader response was overwhelming “No Room At The Inn”

Our dependency on imported oil and food is a disaster waiting to happen.

Now, believe it or not, the “Military wants Hawaiʻi to be a hub for Pacific arms manufacturing” – I describe the plan and consequences here “Can’t make this stuff up. And it’s sickening”.

Meanwhile we have State legislators meeting in secret rooms, cutting secret deals, and going to jail for bribery.

Our world is in a tumultuous and dangerous place, and it will only get better when we, the people, roll up our sleeves, and do the work to make it so.

I know it sounds corny, but it’s the truth.

This is why I’m emailing/blogging you, and will continue reaching out to you.

My writing/missives/rants are normally limited to 700 words. I encourage folks to “think globally while acting locally” and always provide tangible and specific ways you can help make a difference.

I strive to educate AND I always include a “call to action” AND offer specific guidance on how to do so for those new to the world of policy and politics.

No one pays me to do this, and I am not running for election.

I work for no organization, I am selling no products or services.

This is a labor of love and my only objective is to make a positive difference.

I’m hoping you will join me. If for whatever reason you’re not interested, you’re welcome to unsubscribe or let me know via email, and I’ll not bother you further.

We are still all in this together – of this I am 100% certain.

Sincerely,
Gary Hooser

Today I’m including just one specific call to action.

1) Nadia Alves is running for election to represent Chinatown, Iwilei, and Sand Island in the State House of Representatives, District 28 – I’ve known and worked with Nadia on many issues over the years and know without a doubt that all Hawaiʻi will be well served by her election. REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU LIVE – please help Nadia Alves via a donation if you can.

*I apologize in advance for not always getting my apostrophe’s and grammar and punctuation all just right – too often, like today…I’m just racing to get the message out 🙂