Category Archives: Uncategorized

Guest Column: The Corporate Takeover of Hawai‘i: How Big Business and the Military Control the Economy

By Richard Bodien – independent scholar, poet, and painter living in Hāwī, Hawaiʻi Hawai‘i for Sale—But Not to Hawaiians For many, Hawai‘i represents paradise—pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and a culture built on aloha. But for corporations and the military-industrial complex, … Continue reading

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Trump/Musk – A Real Life Discussion – Support and Opposition

The below is an actual online conversation I had recently – edited for clarity and brevity. Hello Gary, I’m a long time resident and business owner. I’m under the impression since America is seriously overdrawn and it’s not getting better. … Continue reading

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2026 – Candidates Wanted – Only Fighters Need Apply

Received an email recently saying, “I’ve a friend who’s considering running for the House, she’s articulate, smart, and community minded. I’m hoping you can meet and possibly support her.” My first thought was absolutely yes. I’m always open to meeting … Continue reading

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The House Money Game – Why Rules Matter – Into The Weeds

It’s not like the Hawai’i Senate is a model of sunshine and good government, but the House of Representatives just keeps stepping in it. Frankly, the arrogance of the House is embarrassingly unrestrained. Case In Point – HB772 – Relating … Continue reading

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The Answer to Trump/Musk is Self-Sufficiency & Independence – Not Appeasement

President Trump has demonstrated through words and action, unequivocally – he will do whatever’s necessary to maintain control and power. He publicly sneers, belittles, and mocks anyone and everyone who has the audacity to disagree with him or push back … Continue reading

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Acasio, Aiwohi, Alcubilla, Aynessazian, Cobeen, Cobeen, Pahia and Ikeuchi v. House of Representatives

Honolulu StarAdvertiser Column: State government must lift cloak of opacity for public good https://www.staradvertiser.com/2025/03/06/editorial/island-voices/column-state-government-must-lift-cloak-of-opacity-for-public-good/ By Robert H. Pahia, Sergio J. Alcubilla III and Laura Acasio March 6, 2025  The essence of democracy lies in self-governance. Article 1, Section 1 of … Continue reading

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National Manure Pile Hits The Wind

Just when you think it can’t get much worse, American diplomacy led by President Trump and Vice President Vance – implodes on national television. Regardless of which side you’re on, most will agree what happened during last weeks meeting with … Continue reading

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DEI – A Line In The Sand

Each of us looks at the world through our own unique lens, formed by our own unique life experiences. Some of us grew up surrounded by poverty and hardship, while others enjoyed lives of wealth and privilege. We are brown, … Continue reading

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“Change brings opportunity.” – Nido Qubein

Sometimes, people in positions of leadership must step back so others may have the space to step forward. This is why I’m stepping down from The Hawai’i Alliance for Progressive Action (H.A.P.A.) Board, an organization I helped create over a … Continue reading

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Title: House Of Cards (time sensitive)

If it looks like I’m “picking on the State House”, it’s because the House keeps messing up – egregiously, in your face kine messing up. The latest fiasco involves the Chair of House Finance, Rep. Kyle Yamashita, the sole sponsor … Continue reading

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