Only Hawaiian in House ignored by news story

The Maui News article May 4 on the accomplishments of this year’s Maui representatives forgot to mention the only woman and Hawaiian on the House roster, Rep. Mele Carroll. You didn’t even bother with a picture.

Rep. Carroll, as head of the Hawaiian Caucus in the House, played an important role in the gains claimed by Maui’s legislators. She strongly supported issues critical to her constituents. She was joined by Reps. Joe Bertram, Angus McKelvey and Joe Souki in supporting taro farmers, cultural and environmental vitality, and increasing local self-sufficiency.

Can’t say the same for Rep. Kyle Yamashita. Just check his voting record, such as his vote for enterprise zone waivers for the multibillion-dollar biotech industry from paying the state’s general excise tax because they don’t retail seed here. They need a tax break like a bucket needs a hole.

Mr. Yamashita should listen a little harder to his constituents instead of voting as if he lives in Honolulu where most of his campaign contributions come from.

Kealoha Darns

Kula