08-29-2008, 02:46 AM
The audience seemed small for the forum and it's location. The hosts had everything very nice arranged, a thoughtful effort. My complements to HSRE Board members and staff for a job well done.
All candidates were present: Fred Blas, Faye Hanohano, Anthony Marzi and Steve Sparks.
I don't know Faye Hanohano well but she seems somewhat blase about re-election. Her use of the word "whatever" may just be her way of speaking. It doesn't communicate energy or focus and I have to wonder what presence she has in Honolulu. It is more than a casual impression that Faye seems unconcerned with keeping this position.
Fred Blas had a large number of his Action Team present and they all have successful efforts to brag about. Fred does indeed get things done and is full of energy. I could picture him in the State House. Some of us could better picture him in County Council closer to home and wish he might have sought that seat. Fred is a human magnet that draws people into his enthusiasm.
Anthony Marzi keeps adding to his credibility and demonstrating his communication skills. I was not aware of his work at Lawrence Livermore which is a prestigious scientific base. When I say communication skills there is more there than just speaking clearly. Anthony shows an ability to empathize with his audience and speak directly to the interests of those in front of him. This is a political skill, rather rare in someone 23 years old, but extremely useful in Honolulu arm twisting.
Steve Sparks, who I have always liked and enjoyed, added to his stature with some clarity on issues. I have used the term "keen perception" with Steve before and I think that phrase well chosen.
Everyone seemed aware and agreed that to be effective in Honolulu, for Puna, the winner will need an ability to make friends and alliances, build effective coalitions with neighbor island allies and be careful in choosing and timing their (our) battles.
To summarize, without personal commitment to a candidate at this moment, we have a good slate of candidates for this job. Fortunate it is for us indeed because we really do need some effect in Honolulu. Half our troubles here are Honolulu based.
All candidates were present: Fred Blas, Faye Hanohano, Anthony Marzi and Steve Sparks.
I don't know Faye Hanohano well but she seems somewhat blase about re-election. Her use of the word "whatever" may just be her way of speaking. It doesn't communicate energy or focus and I have to wonder what presence she has in Honolulu. It is more than a casual impression that Faye seems unconcerned with keeping this position.
Fred Blas had a large number of his Action Team present and they all have successful efforts to brag about. Fred does indeed get things done and is full of energy. I could picture him in the State House. Some of us could better picture him in County Council closer to home and wish he might have sought that seat. Fred is a human magnet that draws people into his enthusiasm.
Anthony Marzi keeps adding to his credibility and demonstrating his communication skills. I was not aware of his work at Lawrence Livermore which is a prestigious scientific base. When I say communication skills there is more there than just speaking clearly. Anthony shows an ability to empathize with his audience and speak directly to the interests of those in front of him. This is a political skill, rather rare in someone 23 years old, but extremely useful in Honolulu arm twisting.
Steve Sparks, who I have always liked and enjoyed, added to his stature with some clarity on issues. I have used the term "keen perception" with Steve before and I think that phrase well chosen.
Everyone seemed aware and agreed that to be effective in Honolulu, for Puna, the winner will need an ability to make friends and alliances, build effective coalitions with neighbor island allies and be careful in choosing and timing their (our) battles.
To summarize, without personal commitment to a candidate at this moment, we have a good slate of candidates for this job. Fortunate it is for us indeed because we really do need some effect in Honolulu. Half our troubles here are Honolulu based.
Assume the best and ask questions.
Punaweb moderator
Punaweb moderator