Arthur K. Trask, lawyer, politician | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper

Arthur K. Trask, lawyer, politician | The Honolulu Advertiser | Hawaii's Newspaper

With Maunakea Trask being in the news so much, I wanted to write a bit of my thoughts and remembrances of Aurthur K Trask Senior. I knew him as "Uncle Aurthur". He was brilliant, opinionated. Some thought he was loud, boisterous or talkative. He was just knowledgeable and had no patience for stupidity.

"Uncle" Aurthur took a lot of time explaining things to me. He saw that I was eager to learn how to discuss matters and testify better at public hearings. I was very inexperienced but very much wanted to look better and sound smarter, even though I did not have much of an education. Uncle Art would sit in the Lihue library, show me what books to read. He would "debate" the issues with me, and he would teach me how to argue a point.

He was an extremely passionate supporter of Native Hawaiian rights. I mean that. He would get up and argue loudly at meetings. He was extremely emphatic about it. He was the Uncle of Mililani Trask, and Haunani Trask. These two are also famous Native Hawaiian attorney and college professors. They staunchly support and defend Native Hawaiian rights.

Coming from a long lineage of Native Hawaiian attorneys. Maunakea Trask seems to be taking a far different tack on the sail of his canoe then Haunani and Mililani, and even Uncle Arthur.

I wish him the best, and I encourage him to truly search his heart, and really decide what his ohana would think of the decisions he will be making.

JOSE BULATAO"S EMAIL REGARDING THE BIKEPATH ISSUE

In your efforts, I suggest that you continue to explore ways in which it is possible to clearly demonstrate how collaborative efforts should be the way to combine the resources from the public and private sectors to get things done. 

 

From the private sector, the greatest challenge is to "fire people up" to get organized and involved.  Too often, the few who will take the time to "speak up" are left in the forefront by standing alone by themselves.  The grass roots constituency will say things like "right on", but will not attend meetings or voice their opinions.  The groundswell of support with the SuperFerry is an excellent example of how the grassroots constituency CAN and SHOULD make a difference.  I would prefer that the swearing and the hostility be minimized, and that those in positions of leadership should set the example of being rational and clear-minded about seeking solutions.

 

It would be to the advantage of those who wish to protect and preserve our finite natural resources and our cultural heritages by being definitive in offering solution-based approaches over and above being than merely confrontational in addressing the concerns and issues at hand.  You, Anne, have retained your passion and eloquence with your abilities to be focused and analytical in assessing the challenges and choices which impact and affect what is precious and priceless in our midst.  As you move forward, continue to inspire others to join you in your endeavors.

 

Sincerely,

Jose/Mr B