Author Archives: garyhooser

The debate and actions over Rail has exposed to its ugly core the current status of political leadership in Hawaii. In short, there is none. Yes, the leadership in the Senate and House came together with a funding solution for … Continue reading →

For those of you who still think the answer to “feeding the world” is modern technology provided to us by Monsanto, Syngenta, Dow Chemical, Dupont, BASF, Bayer, Nestles, Pepsico and General Mills – please take just a moment or two … Continue reading →

As is sometimes the case, a person offering testimony recently on an issue before the County Council bcc’d me a copy.  I was thrilled that this particular person had taken time to participate in the process and had written extensive … Continue reading →

“If you don’t support my issue, then I will never vote for you,” is about the least effective comment you can make to someone in public office when testifying on an issue. The first thought that goes through the mind … Continue reading →

Demonizing “big landowners and developers” is an easy and simple track to fall into, and to a large extent in Hawaii, one that is often but not always deserved. Historically, our “big landowners” are the descendants of missionaries who came … Continue reading →

“Imagine an island where basic needs like housing and access to a diversity of income generation opportunities are available for all. Imagine a self-sufficient island with a farm-to-table food economy. Imagine an island that represents a living model of our … Continue reading →

Neighbor-island residents should not be forced to shoulder the costs of the Oahu rail system.  This project initiated and managed (term used loosely) by the City and County of Honolulu needs to remain the responsibility of that County.  Raiding neighbor-island … Continue reading →

From a local political perspective, all hell will break loose in the 2018 elections.  Either that or the heavens will open up, depending on the lens in which you view the universe. Trust me, 2018 will be an election year unlike any other. If you … Continue reading →

Question: What’s the most important number in the Hawaii State Senate? Answer: 13 There are 25 Senators, 13 is a majority and majority rules.  There are 51 members in the House, thus 26 is the magic number there. Any Senator … Continue reading →

Almost daily someone I run into on the street, at the airport or perhaps at the dog park will lament the demise of civility in public discourse. They often are filled with a deep angst over the tension and sometimes … Continue reading →