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    How we can change Hawaii’s image of being unfriendly to businesses

    Grassroot Institute
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    How we can change Hawaii’s image of being unfriendly to businesses

    By Keli‘i Akina

    How much do Hawaii lawmakers really want to help businesses thrive?

    On the surface, it seems like a lot. There are innovation grants, a trade expansion program, an investor center, tax incentives and at least three kinds of special zones: enterprise, opportunity and foreign trade.

    And yet, WalletHub in January ranked Hawaii 42nd among the 50 states as a place to start a business. And last October, the national Tax Foundation ranked Hawaii 42nd in terms of its state business tax climate.

    So why is Hawaii perpetually ranked as one of the least business-friendly states in the nation despite offering so many grants, incentives, credits, zones and other programs intended to do the opposite?

    Maybe a better question is: “Do these special government programs actually make a difference?”

    They might help some businesses — especially those in the industries favored by politicians. But overall, these attempts to be helpful are not what local entrepreneurs really need.

    What they need is what every business needs: a friendly tax and regulatory climate along with a growing economy that will let every industry thrive.

    Unfortunately, the same politicians who keep coming up with these new incentives for their favored industries also keep ramping up the tax and regulatory burden on local businesses.

    According to the Cato Institute’s “Freedom in the 50 States” index, Hawaii ranks 44th in terms of regulatory freedom, and is beginning to challenge New York as the least free state overall.

    The report notes that Hawaii’s biggest deficiencies are in the areas of fiscal policy, labor market freedom and land-use restrictions, but regulations in healthcare and insurance also come in for criticism.

    I’ve been hearing for years that these state and county business incentives are intended to help Hawaii diversify its economy beyond tourism, but you can’t engineer an economy from the top down. There are no special government incentive programs that can solve all of our economic woes.

    Instead, what Hawaii’s business climate really needs is fewer regulatory hurdles, lower taxes and the freedom to grow.
    _____________

    Keli‘i Akina is president and CEO of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii.

    Expat Tales: Life in ‘one of the least-visited countries on the planet’

    Guest Contributor
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    Expat Tales: Life in ‘one of the least-visited countries on the planet’
    by Lorna Thornber

    Originally from the UK, Jonty Crane (above) spent 14 years in New Zealand before moving to one of the least-visited countries on the planet. But with its world-class snorkelling, diving and hiking, he reckons Timor-Leste deserves to be on more travellers’ bucket lists.

    What inspired your move, and how long have you been there?

    My partner and I took a long trip in 2023 and were looking for opportunities when we returned to change our lives.

    We had been aware of Volunteer Service Abroad (VSA) for a while. They’re New Zealand’s largest and most experienced volunteering agency working in international development. They had two suitable roles for my partner and I. We applied and six months later, in February 2024, we arrived in Timor-Leste.

    Cristo Rei Monument, Dili

    Timor-Leste (formerly known as East Timor) is at the southernmost edge of the Indonesian archipelago, about 400km north of the top of Australia. It is the poorest country in Southeast Asia, and has the most oil- and gas-dependent economy in the world.

    The majority of the population live in the countryside and survive on subsistence agriculture. After centuries of rule by the Portuguese, Japanese and Indonesians, it became an independent country in 2002. There was significant conflict and unrest in the 1990s and 2000s, but it has been a stable and democratic state for decades now, and has one of the lowest crime rates in Southeast Asia.

    Can you tell us a bit about where you live?

    We live in Dili, the capital of Timor-Leste. If I ignore all my senses other than sight I could almost be Wellington, with lush, bush-clad hillside stretching down to a city of 300,000 people on the waterfront.

    However the 30-degree-plus temperature, 80% humidity, noise of barking dogs, crowing roosters, horn-heavy traffic, and the absence of gale-force wind reminds me that I’m not!

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    The couple live in the capital, Dili, with excellent snorkelling and hiking just 20 minutes away by public transport.

    We live in a house built during Portuguese colonial times close to Dili Cathedral, which the Pope will visit in September this year.

    Did it take long to settle in?

    It took a few months to adjust, in particular to the climate and how a very different culture works. VSA provide amazing support. Their in-country team organised our accommodation, and helped us with getting ourselves set up. Timor-Leste can be quite bureaucratic, so having local support has made a huge difference.

    What do you do there?

    My partner is volunteering in Climate Change Finance with Oxfam. I’m volunteering at HAMNASA, a local health NGO, and at the Ministry of Tourism.

    For HAMNASA I’ve been helping with organisational development, training, and refreshing their strategic plan. For the Ministry of Tourism I’ve been creating online resources at exploringtimor.com, writing two guidebooks, creating promotional materials, training local tourism providers on social media and internet promotion, and working to establish signed hiking trails in Dili.

    Timor-Leste is one of the least-visited countries on the planet, with few people having heard of it, and even fewer knowing what there is here for tourists, so there is plenty to do!

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    What are the biggest advantages of living there?

    Timor-Leste is very safe, the people are lovely, and there is so much to do and explore.

    Dili is a wonderful city – small enough to easily get around, but large enough to have a cinema, decent restaurants and shops.

    For coffee lovers, some of the best in the world is grown here. For hikers, the highest peak, Mt Ramelau, is nearly 3000m above sea level. For divers and snorkellers, Atauro Island is a paradise, and only 90 minutes by boat from Dili.

    There are a few hundred expats living in Dili, a mixture of volunteers and people working for international and local NGOs and United Nations’ organisations, forming a good-sized community. Everyone I work with though is Timorese, and it has been a great experience getting to know them, and feeling integrated to a degree into the local community.

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    Jonty with local guides on Atauro Island

    Any disadvantages?

    Timor-Leste is classified by the UN as a least-developed country, so there are definite challenges. Certainly it takes longer to do things here, and the climate can be exhausting at times. Shopping can be a mission, requiring visits to multiple places to buy what you need, and often things can disappear from the shelves.

    The internet is one of the slowest in the world, though it will improve next year with the installation of a fibre optic cable. You very much need to embrace Timor-Leste for what it is, and take everything as a memorable experience, whether good or bad.

    How expensive is it compared to New Zealand?

    Surprisingly expensive! Timor-Leste uses the US dollar, and like New Zealand (but more so), it is a small, remote country with high shipping and logistics costs.

    Internet is about US$30 (NZ$49) a month. Rent, paid for by VSA, is about US$600 a month. Electricity, also paid for by VSA, is about US$80 a month. Local food is relatively cheap, but anything imported is more expensive than in New Zealand.

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    Diving on Atauro Island.

    How do you spend your spare time?

    The diving, snorkelling and hiking here is world-class. Within 20 minutes by public transport from where I live I can snorkel above beautiful reefs, hike up nearly 500m-high hills, or do both!

    There is much to explore around the country, including Portuguese colonial history, local cultural events, and beautiful beaches (though many are home to crocodiles).

    There are 14 municipalities in Timor-Leste, and I’ve visited nine to date, with plans to visit the rest in the coming months. It is a small country (about the size of Hawke’s Bay), but the quality of the roads means it can take up to eight hours to get to more remote areas.

    What is the local delicacy and would you recommend it?

    There are some interesting Portuguese influences and ‘fusion’ restaurants serving something different to the typical Southeast Asian diet of rice and vegetables. I’m a big fan of the fruit markets, where six passionfruit, a fresh coconut, or a bunch of delicious local bananas can be bought for US$1 each.

    Easiest way to get around?

    Microlet or motorbike. Microlets are local minibuses that cost US$0.25 a trip and are super-frequent between 6am and 6pm. Downsides are that they really small inside and the music can be deafening.

    Riding a motorbike here is exhilarating and terrifying in equal measure, but the best way to get out of Dili to explore the rest of the country. Road infrastructure is highly variable, from decent sealed roads to rough dirt tracks, but thankfully there isn’t that much traffic outside of Dili.

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    Dili is home to lots of good restaurants, Jonty says.

    Best time of year to visit?

    The dry season runs from June to November. It is best to visit at the start when the landscape is still green and lush, but there is no rain. Between mid-October and the end of November, blue whales migrate through the Wetar Strait between Dili and Atauro Island, which is a major draw for visitors.

    What are the top three things you recommend visitors check out?

    Atauro Island is home to some of the healthiest and most bio-diverse reefs in the world. Within five minutes’ boat ride from shore, you can be diving or snorkelling in warm, clear, and life -filled waters. There is also incredible hiking around the coast and through the mountainous interior.

    Cristo Rei is Timor-Leste’s most obvious landmark, a 27m high statue of Jesus (one of the tallest in the world) at the end of Cape Fatacuma in Dili. There are incredible views of the city from the summit, and the surrounding area is excellent for hiking and snorkelling.

    The National Resistance Museum is the best place to understand the history of Timor-Leste. The museum tells the story from pre-colonial times, but the focus is on the brutal 24-year-long Indonesian occupation.

    Family and friends aside, what do you most miss about home?

    Reliable and fast internet. Being able to buy everything I need for a week from a supermarket, rather than going to three different shops three times a week. Being cold!

    Expat Tales is a Stuff Travel series featuring Kiwis who’ve made new lives for themselves overseas. If you’d like to take part, email us at travel@stuff.co.nz

    Mindful Self-Massage, “Do-in”, Workshop at Still and Moving Center August 17

    Robert Kay
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    Mindful Self-Massage, “Do-in”, Workshop at Still and Moving Center August 17

    According to Dr. Greg Yuen, who will be leading a “DDo-in” workshop, the secret to greater vitality can now Be in your hands. He says it’s easy to learn, yet can provide profound benefit.

    A little known technique, called Do-in, is an ancient Chinese practice that uses self-massage to increase energy, reduce stress, and promote self-healing and longevity.  Do-in works through the cultivation of qi (pronounced chee), the vital force in the body, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.  

    Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced since at least 1400 BC.  It serves the entire Sinosphere consisting of mainland China and other East Asian countries subject to Chinese culture.

    Dr. Greg Yuen

    Central to the practice of TCM is the concept of qi.  TCM asserts that all disease is a result of an imbalance or blockage of qi flow in the body.  When the acupuncturist stimulates needles applied to acupuncture points, he is attempting to balance qi flow.  Similarly, the primary purpose of Do-in is to balance and relieve any blockage of qi flow in the body.

    The tachi classics say “where the mind goes, the qi goes”.  TCM says “where the qi goes, the blood goes”.  When you practice Do-in, it is not simply the massaging of a body part.  Crucial to the flow of qi is the mindfulness of the area being massaged.  The result is that with Do-in, the qi will flow and the blood will flow.  The cells of the body will be bathed with oxygen and nutrients and also be cleansed of carbon dioxide and toxins.  The body is thereby given maximal support for optimal health.

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    The Japanese words “do” and “in” both mean “to lead or guide”. In this case, it refers to guiding or leading the qi in the body.

    The Japanese took Do-in from the Chinese who called it “daoyin”. The first manuscripts of daoyin appeared around 200 BC. While daoyin usually applied to movement exercises, the Japanese Do-in is a subset of massage techniques within the broader scope of daoyin exercises.

    A workshop to introduce Do-in: Mindful Self-Massage will be given at the Still and Moving Center on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 12:30-2:30 PM. 

    The instructor, Dr. Greg Yuen, has been a local psychiatrist, taichi instructor and massage therapist for over forty years.  He brings the best of his knowledge of Western and Easter medicine to the forefront with Do-in.

    To see Dr. Yuen in action, visit this link: https://f.io/FG7CNTxc

    For info or to register for his workshop, use this link:

    https://momence.com/s/104461467

    Hornady’s RAPID Safe Night Guard hides your valuables in plain sight

    Robert Kay
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    Hornady’s RAPID Safe Night Guard hides your valuables in plain sight

    Editor’s Note: This is the first of a series on electronic and mechanical lock boxes for your handgun or other valuables. The first item for review is the RAPID Safe Night Guard from Hornady which looks like an alarm clock but is a bedside safe with three options for access.

    News of children gaining access to handguns is a theme that we’ve heard about way too often. The recent saga of a 6-year-old boy who shot his first grade teacher is chilling. (The child’s mother received 21 months in prison).

    It goes without saying that keeping firearms secure is key to preventing unwanted incidents and accidents.

    What does a gun owner do?

    The conventional wisdom is to get a gun safe. This is not news to responsible gun owners who keep their firearms locked away.

    Understandably folks often prefer to have their handgun close by — what I call a bedside safe — if the need presents itself. That’s often the bedroom. Keeping your Glock on or in your nightstand drawer is not necessarily a good idea, unless of course it’s secure.

    Enter electronic firearm storage.

    Type in “Gun Locks” on Amazon and you’ll see an array of safes—some are simple lockboxes with keypads whereas others have biometric readers and even Bluetooth safe management. Some are designed to resemble alarm clocks and have built in wireless phone chargers—perfect for the bedside . (I’m surprised they don’t have radios). 

    Naturally the idea is instant access. 

    Enter the RAPiD® Safe Night Guard—A Bedside safe

    First up in our review is the RAPID Safe Night Guard from Hornady. For those of you who load your own ammo, Hornady is a household name. The 75-year old company is synonymous with high quality ammunition, reloading gear and more recently, security equipment.

    There’s room enough for the obvious items and some left over for cash, passports, etc. (photo Rob Kay)

    They have expanded their reportoire over the last few years with a line of electronic lockboxes. One of their signature products in this space is the Night Guard which I deem a bedside safe. I found it appealing for several reasons.

    The first thing that caught my attention was the spring-assist drawer box that slides open like an old-fashioned cash register. (Dimensions are 3″D x 10.5″W x 12″H). Wave the magic wand (in this case an RFID tag) and voila, there’s your Glock or for that matter, your dad’s Rolex watch. There’s room in the drawer for standard sized handgun, a few magazines and a 20-round box of anno. I also placed a passport and some cash in there.

    What else was appealing?

    The Night Guard has a digital readout and can easily sit on your nightstand, looking innocuously like an alarm clock. There’s even two USB charging ports that add to the masquerade. (Who knows maybe you’ll even be able to use the USB ports). The unit, which weighs about 20 lbs., plugs into the wall socket. There’s also a AAA battery backup if the power disappears—not an unknown occurrence in Hawaii.

    What else is cool?

    This Bedside safe is hidden in plain sight. There’s also a couple of USB ports in the back so you can put this to work. Sorry no alarm clock but it sure looks like one. (photo Rob Kay)

    It’s a robust item made from 14-gauge steel and comes with a heavy duty 1500 lb. steel lock-down security cable. Ergo you can attach it to any stationary object. (It also comes with 2 internal, hardened locking lugs).

    So how do you open it?

    Quite easily, which of course is the idea.

    There are three ways to accomplish this.

    The quickest method is with an RFID tag. Hornady provides two on decals, a fob for a key chain and a watchband tag. Just program these items, place them in front of the reader (the digital readout which pretends to be your alarm clock) and bingo, the drawer opens as if you have a magic wand.

    The second method is to set up a 4- or 6-digit key code for the key pad. It’s easy to program. The owner’s manual is short, sweet and well written. I’m not going to get into the weeds with this. Suffice to say it took me all of ten minutes to figure out. You do have to get used to the keypad. Like anything else there’s a technique, which is primarily being adroit where you place your fingers. If you are a bit sloppy, it won’t work. Again, the complexity not the equivalent of a Simone Biles routine on the beam but you’ll want to get used to the drill.

    The third method of getting in is an old-fashioned, circular barrel key. Chances are you’re not going to use that method in an emergency but it’s there.

    You get RFID decals, a fob and the keys. (I put the decal on the back of my cellphone). (photo Rob Kay)

    So what’s the most practical way to open it?

    The RFID option is the quick and dirty way. I put a decal on the back of my cell phone. Nowadays (for better or worse) just about everyone is glued to their phones so chances are, unless you’re in the shower, you’re going to have your phone with you.

    No phone around?

    Well there’s the keypad. (Or maybe you could hang the key fob somewhere close by on the wall and use that).

    The wristband is an option if you have a wristband that will fit.

    Perhaps the coolest thing about this product is the “hidden in plain sight” quality of this bedside safe. You’d have to have a very akamai thief to recognize that this is a lockbox. Even if the bad guy figures this out, if you’ve got it cabled down to the bed (as mine is) it’s not going to be easy for anyone to remove from your home.

    In short, there’s really nothing I didn’t like about the RAPID Safe Night Guard.

    Rob Kay is a technology columnist for the Honolulu Star Advertiser and the creator of FijiGuide.com. He covers firearms topics for Hawaii Reporter.

    AUGUST’S LINEUP: Spyro Gyra’s 50th Anniversary, Maxi Priest, MAGIC! and More

    Daniela Stolfi-Tow
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    AUGUST’S LINEUP: Spyro Gyra’s 50th Anniversary, Maxi Priest, MAGIC! and More

    Blue Note Hawaii is thrilled to present an eclectic lineup of world-class performances this August, offering an array of music genres and comedy acts to captivate every audience. We kick off the month with a heartfelt tribute to Jerry Garcia by the Skeleton Krewe All-Star Band, followed by a soulful homage to Amy Winehouse led by local favorite Mindy Smokestack. Comedy enthusiasts can look forward to René Vaca’s uproarious stand-up, while music lovers will be enchanted by the multifaceted talents of Frankie Moreno. The month also features a unique cultural fusion with the “The Good Old Days Concert,” blending Shanghai Jazz with Hong Kong Pop. Cynthia Lin will mesmerize with her “Songbird” performance, and fans of reggae and rock can revel in shows by MAGIC!, and Jon McLaughlin. The legendary jazz ensemble Spyro Gyra celebrates their 50th anniversary, and the comedic brilliance of Brad Williams, Masood Boomgaard, Akaash Singh, and Melissa Mae promises to leave audiences in stitches as part of The Blue Note Hawaii Comedy Series. Ohana Arts presents HistoRewrite – an evening of Musical Theatre and Storytelling. The creator of Lover’s Rock, reggae legend Maxi Priest returns to the Blue Note stage for two nights only.

    From the nostalgic sounds of Streetlight Cadence to the electrifying soul revue by The Elevations, a tribute to Frank Sinatra with Mike Lewis and Shari Lynn, American Idol’s Oliver Steele, Blue Note Hawaii is the ultimate destination for unforgettable entertainment this August.

    Parking is validated at the OHANA East Hotel for $6 for four hours and at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki for $15 for four hours valet.

    “How Sweet It Is”

    Jerry Garcia Birthday Tribute Ft. Skeleton Krewe All-Star Band
    Thursday, August 1
    Tickets: General Admission $50
    Showtimes: 6:30 p.m.
    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    In honor of Jerry, an all-star band – Stephen Inglis with Barry Sless, Rob Barraco, Wally Ingram, and Pete Sears (world-class players who have performed, toured and recorded with members of the Grateful Dead) – will take the stage and delve deep into the songbook of the Jerry Garcia Band (JGB), as well as compositions from Jerry’s solo albums and other projects. It’s the soul, R&B, rock n’ roll, reggae and more from JGB (plus, a few, timely sparklers from Garcia’s other repertoire) brought to life in stellar fashion by supremely talented musicians who are deeply inspired by Jerry and know and love the music, and the person within it, as well as anyone in the world.

    “Back to Black”

    A Tribute to Amy Winehouse with Mindy Smokestack

    Friday, August 2

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 8:00 p.m.

    Doors: 6:00 p.m.

    Local singer Mindy Smokestack will be headlining the 8th Annual Amy Winehouse Tribute, performing alongside a 10-piece band, complete with a horn section and local singers. This tribute celebrates the legacy of British music legend Amy Winehouse, renowned for her hits like “Rehab” and “Valerie.” Winehouse’s remarkable career includes winning six Grammy Awards in 2008 for “Rehab” and the album “Back to Black.” Featuring Chardonnay, Anina Carmack & Leighna Lariosa.

    Blue Note Comedy Series

    Rene Vaca

    Saturday, August 3

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating $35, Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Born and raised in the San Fernando Valley in Southern California, René Vaca is a 28-year-old stand-up comedian, writer, and actor. Although he started a landscaping business at 15 years old, he soon realized he wanted to pursue comedy for a living; he dropped out of college and has not looked back since. Vaca has been pursuing his dream of stand-up comedy and won the 16th annual StandUp NBC competition! Since then, Vaca has also built a following with his stand-up comedy clips reaching millions of views across his social media channels, including over 650 thousand followers on Instagram and 350 thousand followers on TikTok. Currently, he is on his nationwide tour that ends with his first ever Netflix Is A Joke Fest appearance.

    Frankie Moreno

    Sunday, August 4

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 6:30 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    With 17 Top-Ten albums (five No. 1’s), 113 Top-Ten singles (97 No. 1’s), an Emmy nomination and being named Las Vegas “Headliner of the Year” five times, Frankie Moreno is consistently breaking records and wowing audiences from coast to coast with his own brand of genre-blurring Rock n’ Roll. Reaching millions of record sales worldwide, Frankie continues to write and release new music. In 2019, he made music history by becoming the only artist to have six albums debut at a Top-Ten spot on the Billboard Charts in a 12-month period.

    Hong Kong Business Association of Hawaii Presents

    The Good Old Days Concert: Shanghai Jazz Meets HK Pop

    Ft. Suzan Guterres, Albert Cheung, Cathy Foy, Joshua Kaye & Barinna Poon

    Wednesday, August 7

    Tickets: Premium Seating $60, Loge Seating & Bar Area $50

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    A unique concert that combines ‘East-meets-West’ style: Chinese music element with Western jazz (30s-40s Shanghai jazz, and 50s-90s Hong Kong popular music), the concert is featuring renowned Hong Kong singers Suzan Guterres, Albert Cheung (大AL) and former Hong Kong singer Barinna Poon who will sing the golden songs of those years. Renowned Hawaii-based singer Cathy Foy and distinguished jazz pianist and composer Joshua Kaye will also be on stage to accompany the show, as well as three of Hawaii’s finest resident ensembles.

    Cynthia Lin: Songbird

    Thursday, August 8

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    Singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Cynthia Lin has a passion for songs. In her new solo show Songbird, the Honolulu-based artist paints cinematic stories with her rich, effortless vocals that speak to the soul.  Emulating her heroes Ella Fitzgerald and Joni Mitchell, Cynthia finds beauty and truth in every note. Creating her own niche on YouTube with inventive and minimalist performances on the ukulele, Cynthia hit the Billboard charts with her album Ukulele Days and has headlined at ukulele festivals around the world.  In 2023, she toured North America and Europe with her trio, the ukulele “supergroup” U3, to support their debut album In Waves, which features her original island-inspired bossa nova tune, “Aquamarine.”

    Magic!

    Friday, August 9

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Drawing heavy influences from artists such as The Police, Stevie Wonder, and Bob Marley, MAGIC! was formed in 2012 by Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer Nasri (lead vocals), Mark Pelli (guitar), Ben Spivak (bass), and Alex Tanas (drums). MAGIC!’s meteoric rise came shortly after the release of their debut single, “Rude” in 2013. Co-written and produced by Grammy Award-winner Adam Messinger, “Rude” held the #1 spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for six weeks, while dominating charts globally, hitting #1 in 41 countries. There is much more music to come as MAGIC! gears up to release their fourth studio album. You don’t want to miss this show!

    Coast to Coast Tour

    Jon McLaughlin

    Saturday, August 10

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Everything in Jon McLaughlin’s life makes its way into his music, whether he’s conscious of it or not. The artist, raised in Indiana and based in Nashville, brings all of his experiences and beliefs into each song he creates, something that is especially true now that he’s the father of two young girls. Jon released his debut album, Indiana, in 2007 on Island Def Jam, attracting fans with his heartfelt, hook-laden songwriting and impassioned delivery. He’s released six full-lengths in the years since and revealed a true evolution in both his piano playing and singing. He’s played shows with Billy Joel, Kelly Clarkson, and Adele, collaborated with longtime friend Sara Bareilles, co-written with Demi Lovato and even performed at the Academy Awards in 2008.

    Spyro Gyra: 50th Anniversary

    Sunday, August 11

    Tickets: Premium Seating $55, Loge Seating & Bar Area $45

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    In 2024, Jay Beckenstein and band observe the 50th anniversary of what started as a diversion, something that was just for fun (and twenty-five cents at the door). It began inauspiciously when Beckenstein and a few musician friends in Buffalo NY organized a get together on their shared night off from working in bands that made money. It was a simple, humble idea with a name that was likewise simple and humble, “Tuesday Night – Jazz Jam”. Fast forward 50 years and this jazz super group has released over 30 albums, garnering gold and platinum along the way. They’ve played over 10,000 concerts on six continents. Spyro Gyra has maintained its standards of excellence and that has sustained them on the “A list” of live attractions in jazz for 50 years.

    Blue Note Comedy Series & Comedy U Presents

    Local Comedy Showcase Starring Melissa Mae

    Wednesday, August 14

    Tickets: Premium Seating $20, Loge Seating & Bar Area $15, +$5 Day of Show

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:30 p.m.

    Melissa Mae is Hawaiʻi’s haole sweetheart. As both a comedian and certified yoga instructor, Melissa can help you stretch the stomach muscles you’ll be using to laugh all night. She recently made her debut in New York City performing at the storied Gotham Comedy Club. She regularly performs at The Blue Note Hawaii as well as other venues across Oahu. She has shared the stage with world famous comedians such as Sheng Wang, Julie Kim, Nimesh Patel, Hans Kim and Esther Ku. Join her as she makes her headlining debut at Blue Note Hawaii on Wednesday, August 14th.

    Double Bass Experience Ft. Jacob Webb & Phylicia Rae

    Thursday, August 15

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    The explosive Jazz Double Bass experience featuring Jacob Webb and Phylicia Rae will take the audience to a place where they’ve never been before. The combination of these two stars in contemporary jazz has obtained seven number one Billboard records under their belt. Matter of fact, Phylicia Rae is the first female lead bassist to ever obtain a number one record on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz National Airplay Chart in the history of this genre. Her history making single “Now or Never,” featuring Marcus Anderson, has granted the opportunity for female bassists to thrive in this genre. In addition to his bass skills, Jacob Webb founded Next Paradigm Records, a nine-artist contemporary jazz roster of fresh talent acclaiming multiple number one hit Billboard singles. Today, Billboard has recognized Next Paradigm as the number four label in smooth Jazz. This Double bass experience gives homage to the giants who have paved the way for lead bassist including Wayman Tisdale, Marcus Miller, Stanley Clarke, and many others. Jacob Webb and Phylicia Rae’s double bass experience will leave you wanting more while satisfying the musical soul!

    Blue Note Comedy Series

    Brad Williams

    Friday, August 16 & Saturday, August 17

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Pound for pound, Brad Williams is the funniest comedian in the country right now and has become one of the most in-demand comedians working today. Williams started doing stand-up comedy as a teenager and has been touring successfully ever since, routinely selling out prestigious venues all over the country and world. Williams has parlayed his live performances into a multitude of stand-up television appearances, including “The Tonight Show,” “Dave Attell’s Comedy Underground” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” His first one-hour special, “Fun Size,” was the highest rated special on Showtime, and a year later, he followed that up with his second one, “Daddy Issues,” which was even more successful than the first. His third special in three years was an uproarious one, hosting some of the edgiest comedians in the country from the prestigious Montreal Just for Laughs Festival. His last groundbreaking special on Netflix, “The Degenerates,” garnered more huge ratings and rave reviews.

    HistoRewrite An Evening of Musical Theater and Storytelling

    Sunday, August 18

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:30 p.m.

    As the young Matilda Wormwood so wisely put it, “Nobody else is going to put it right for me! Nobody but me is going to change my story!” We are the only ones who decide and control the trajectory of our own stories. Most important of all, it’s not about how our stories end. It’s all about the process. During this evening of Broadway hits, Ohana Arts students, alumni, and co-founders will take you on a journey through their stories in which theater helps to carve their paths. Weaving in personal anecdotes and life experiences with their favorite musical selections, these artists will take you through the challenges and triumphs, the failures and successes, and the pain and joy of their stories. Theater has the power to help us write the future, to change the status quo, and to rewrite history.  As artists who harbor individual values, passions, and hopes for our world, we have the power to effect change through theater.

    Blue Note Comedy Series

    Masood Boomgaard

    Wednesday, August 21

    Tickets: Premium Seating $40, Loge Seating & Bar Area $30

    Showtimes: 6:30 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    Self-help Singh is the alter ego of international comedian Masood Boomgaard. Self-help Singh, described as a comedic alternative life coach and de-motivational speaker, first appeared to Boomgaard in a vision after he fell and hit his head while rushing to the bathroom in an attempt to outrun the gastric consequences of bad lamb vindaloo. Boomgaard has since been sharing the “common sense wisdom” and de-motivational teachings of Self-help Singh to millions of people on the internet. The Self-help Singh live show is a hilarious yet thought provoking juxtaposition of stand-up comedy, parody, and motivational speaking. During his decade long full-time professional comedy career Boomgaard has performed in New York, London, Dubai and during the lockdown, in his father’s garage. He lives in South Africa with his cat…for now.

    Maxi Priest

    Thursday, August 22 & Friday, August 23

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Maxi Priest is the first British-born singer to graduate from the London reggae sound-system Saxon Studio International, introducing the sound of lovers’ rock to a global audience. Before joining Saxon, Maxi embraced Rastafari and served an apprenticeship with South London Soundsystem Negus Negast and the legendary Jah Shaka. Maxi has adhered to these principles his entire career by making conscious music of all kinds. His 2019 album “It All Comes Back to Love” released on S-Curve Records/BMG and co-produced by Shaggy, was nominated for the Grammy award for Best Reggae Album. He followed that up with 2020’s “United State of Mind”, a collaborative album with Robin Trower and Livingstone Brown.

    Streetlight Cadence

    Saturday, August 24

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    One night only! The Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning and Emmy-nominated Streetlight Cadence returns to the Blue Note for an evening of song and story. Fresh off the heels of their most ambitious tour ever, the band that started on the sidewalks of Waikiki have been embraced by audiences worldwide and put on a show as fantastical as their journey.

    Hawaiʻi Soul Revue 2024

    The Elevations Ft. Jason “Bison” Friedmann and Todd Hembrook

    Sunday, August 25

    Tickets: Premium Seating $25, Loge Seating & Bar Area $20

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 p.m.

    Inspired by the high-energy Stax and Motown revues of the past, The Elevations will be taking over the Blue Note for one explosive night of dyn-o-mite Soul! Special guests will light up the night starting with some all-star talent from Todd Hembrook. Todd is the front man for Todd Hembrook and The Hemispheres and Chicago legends, Deal’s Gone Bad. For the one-two punch knockout, Jason “Bison” Friedmann will also be there tearing up the stage with the same moves and vocal delivery that made Hawaii’s very own, Go Jimmy Go, “The Island Sound Known the World Around”!  This dynamic duo hasn’t shared the stage in over 8 years, and it will be electric… Get ready Honolulu, The Hawai’i Soul Revue 2024 is coming for you!

    Mike Lewis and Friends Present

    Brian Duprey: The Ultimate Frank Sinatra Tribute

    With Special Guest Vocalist Shari Lynn

    Monday, August 26

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 6:30 & 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Mike Lewis & Friends return to the club with his 17-piece big band with special guest artist, Brian Duprey, for the ultimate Frank Sinatra tribute show!

    Blue Note Comedy Series & Comedy U Presents

    Local Comedy Showcase

    Wednesday, August 28

    Tickets: Premium Seating $20, Loge Seating & Bar Area $15, +$5 Day of Show

    Showtimes: 7:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:30 p.m.

    Comedy U is back for another night showcasing the best of Hawaiʻi’s local comics.

    Blue Note Comedy Series

    Akaash Singh

    Thursday, August 29 & Friday, August 30

    Tickets: Premium Seating $45, Loge Seating & Bar Area $35

    Showtimes: 7:00& 9:00 p.m.

    Doors: 5:30 & 8:30 p.m.

    Akaash Singh is a nationally touring stand-up comedian, podcaster, and actor. His career took off with many television shows including MTV’s “Guy Code” and “Wild’n Out,” Netflix’s “Brown Nation,” and HBO’s “The Leftovers.” After finding success in TV, he pivoted his focus toward growing the now hugely successful podcast “Flagrant,” co-created with fellow comedian and good friend, Andrew Schulz, along with his successful stand-up comedy touring career. Akaash self-produced and directed his first stand up special, “Bring Back Apu” in February, amassing over a million views in its first week alone. Just one month later, he released “The Crowdwork Special,” putting him in rarified air of comedians who produced two specials in back-to-back months. Aside from stand up, look for Akaash as the lead in the Netflix Animated Series “Conquest” as well as an upcoming Hulu series created by Ramy Youssef.

    Oliver Steele

    Saturday, August 31

    Tickets: Premium Seating $35, Loge Seating & Bar Area $25

    Showtimes: 6:00 & 8:30 p.m.

    Doors: 4:30 & 8:00 p.m.

    Oliver Steele released his debut single “As it Was” (a unique arrangement of the Harry Styles hit), followed by his original “Too Soon” as he rose through the ranks on American Idol Season 21. Oliver finished in the Top 8 of American Idol Season 21, winning over America with his powerful voice and loving personality. He has since accumulated over half a million streams on Spotify and tens of thousands of followers on social media. In addition to captivating audiences with his performance, Oliver will mentor youth in Haku Collective’s MeleCraft music program on the beautiful island of Maui. As a gesture of support and commitment to nurturing talent and Oliver’s dedication to giving back and inspiring the next generation of musicians, he aims to donate a guitar to a deserving student, further enriching the musical landscape of the Maui community.

    Coming up in September at Blue Note Hawaii:

    Kiefer                                                                                                                   September 5

    Gary Owen                                                                                                           September 6&7

    Local Comedy Showcase                                                                                       September 11

    David Benoit                                                                                                        September 13

    David Nihill                                                                                                          September 14

    Jan Daley’s Tribute to Bob Hope                                                                            September 17

    Local Comedy Showcase                                                                                      September 18

    Mike Lewis Big Band                                                                                            September 23

    Local Comedy Showcase                                                                                      September 25

    Janel Parrish                                                                                                      September 27&28

    PraiseJesus Artis & The Women of Hawaiʻi                                                            September 30

    Why Can’t We Feed Keiki Local Food?

    Tom Yamachika
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    Why Can’t We Feed Keiki Local Food?

    For some time now, our Department of Education has been under a legislative mandate to provide local ingredients to our schools so we can feed them to our kids.

    And, also for some time now, federal money has been available to pay for this. It’s called a Local Food for Schools grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the amount of the grant is $650,000.

    But when we got the money, not only did our DOE not spend it, but a memo went out from its central office to all schools directing them NOT to apply for any of the funding.  (By the way, this memo came from a gentleman who, as we reported earlier, was connected to an initiative by DOE to lapse nearly $900 million in funding that the Legislature already had appropriated towards school facilities improvement, and soon afterwards found himself without a job.)

    On top of that, there is another federal program, the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, that gives our schools between $1.5 million and $2 million a year to buy fresh fruits and vegetables to feed our kids. According to Civil Beat, in fiscal years 2020-2022 more than a million dollars, per year, was unused. This, of course, is highly frustrating to members of our Congressional delegation who fight hard for the money only to see the DOE acting like it doesn’t want the funding.

    Okay, so why can’t we feed our kids local ingredients like fresh fruits and vegetables?

    Is it because our DOE staff don’t know how to deal with the ingredients, perhaps?  Apparently, part of the snafu leading to not touching the federal money was, according to a letter from Superintendent Keith Hayashi, a “misunderstanding” between the Hawaii Child Nutrition Program and the School Food Services Branch, which are both under the DOE umbrella, leading to recipes being developed without sufficient SFSB input.  HCNP folks apparently knew how to use the ingredients and went around to various schools showing staff how to handle the ingredients. But SFSB has the responsibility to approve the recipes so that they fall within federal nutrition guidelines.  

    In other words, we have a turf war.

    This, of course, raises legitimate questions about why we have two different governmental subunits in place with overlapping responsibilities. The worst of all scenarios, which seems to be what is happening now, is that the two units fight each other, meaning that taxpayers have to pay for both units and nothing gets done. Can we look at the obvious solution, merging the two units together?

    One of the problems with a big, sprawling bureaucracy like we have in the DOE is the occurrence of overlapping or duplicative subunits. One might know of the other’s existence.  It’s quite possible that both are doing the same or similar efforts toward the common goal.  This might be good if they are doing different tasks.  But it’s not good if they are spending taxpayer resources to duplicate the same tasks or research.

    Okay, legislators wielding the budget axe.  You know what to do.

    And while we’re at it, who thinks this is the only place within DOE where there is duplication of effort or other wasted energy at taxpayer expense? 

    (I vote no.)

    Pass regulations that respect freedom, choice and tradition

    Grassroot Institute
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    Pass regulations that respect freedom, choice and tradition

    By Keli‘i Akina

    I’ve been saying for a long time that Hawaii lawmakers should be careful to take a light-handed approach with occupational licensing — because as we’ve seen time and again, government regulations can have unintended consequences.

    Back in December 2022, I wrote about the negative effect that licensing requirements can have on niche beauty services that aren’t even taught in cosmetology schools, such as natural hair braiding.

    Natural hair braiding, I noted, is “often passed down as part of a cultural tradition and is given little attention in traditional cosmetology schools.”

    This is similar to what is happening regarding Native Hawaiian healing practices utilized in childbirth, which have become the focus of a lawsuit making its way through state court.

    Now, I know that braiding hair is not healthcare, but bear with me.

    In 2019, the state Legislature passed a law stating that anyone who provides “assessment, monitoring, and care” during pregnancy, birth or post-partum is required to pass a program accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council or the North American Registry of Midwives — neither of which are reported to specialize in Native Hawaiian cultural practices or even offer classes in the state.

    However, the law did include an exception that allowed mothers-to-be to sign a special form allowing them to make use of an unlicensed birth attendant, but the exemption was only temporary and expired in 2023.

    The Legislature had four years to pass a more permanent exception for birth attendants but failed to do so. Meanwhile, the rest of the law remains in place, effectively making it a crime for anyone without a midwifery license to assist mothers during childbirth.

    This unfortunate scenario prompted six midwives and three mothers to file a lawsuit arguing that this law, without the exemption, makes it impossible for Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners to provide maternal care.

    The plaintiffs were dealt a win in the case this week when Hawaii First Circuit Court Judge Shirley Kawamura issued a preliminary injunction — based on the state’s duty to preserve Native Hawaiian customs — that prohibits the state from “enforcing, threatening to enforce or applying any penalties to those who practice, teach, and learn traditional Native Hawaiian healing practices of prenatal, maternal and child care.”

    Judge Kawamura’s ruling doesn’t apply to any other non-licensed birth attendants, and the ultimate outcome of the case remains to be seen, but in any case, this lawsuit highlights how easily a well-meaning regulation can restrict important freedoms.

    Broad regulations, even well-meaning ones, can have negative consequences, and lawmakers who consider expanding regulations should consider the possible repercussions. Who might be out of a job? What cultural traditions could be restricted? Which freedoms will be curtailed?

    I hope our state legislators will right this wrong by passing permanent legislation aimed at exempting non-licensed birth attendants from the state’s midwifery licensure law — and take care in the future to pass regulations that respect freedom, choice and tradition.
    _____________

    Keli‘i Akina is president and CEO of the Grassroot Institute of Hawaii.

    Hawaiian-German Music Legend Tribute to Henry Berger

    Robert Kay
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    Hawaiian-German Music Legend Tribute to Henry Berger

    PLEASE JOIN US FOR A FREE CONCERT & LECTURE HONORING GERMANY’S GIFT TO HAWAIIAN MUSIC:

    HENRY BERGER Sunday, August 4, 2024,5 PM to 7 PM — Kawaiahaʻo Church | 957 Punchbowl Street | Honolulu

    On this day, we will celebrate the life and legacy of the “BANDMASTER from COSWIG”, born on August 4, 1844, in Prussia. 

    BERGER left an enduring impact on Hawaii’s musical heritage and was coined by Queen Liliuokalani as the “Father of Hawaiian Music“.He led the Royal Hawaiian Band for 43 years (1872 to 1915) and played a pivotal role in arranging “Hawai‘i Pono‘i,” the national anthem of the Hawaiian Kingdom.



    The highlight of the event will be a free concert by the Royal Hawaiian Band, featuring Bergers original music, followed by a brief presentation on the Berger’s life & legacy by our current and revered RHB Bandmaster CLARK BRIGHT! The German Benevolent Society of Honolulu andthe Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany and the Royal Hawaiian Band are collaborating to ensure a memorable celebration.


    Please don’t miss this unique event celebrating Berger’sremarkable influence on Hawaiian music.

    See you there and Aloha! Brought to you by Josann Jenks & Denis Salle supported by the Board of the GBS

    About The German Benevolent Society:

    Est. in 1888, the GBS of Honolulu fosters German culture and heritage in Hawaii through events, educational programs, and community outreach, celebrating the contributions of the German community to Hawaii’s diverse cultural landscape. Follow the GBS of Honolulu on Instagram:@gbshonolulu

    About The Royal Hawaiian Band:

    Founded in 1836 by King Kamehameha III, the Royal Hawaiian Band is the only band in the United States with a royal legacy and is currently an agency of the City and County of Honolulu. The mission of the band is to promote and foster music, preserve the Hawaiian musical culture, inspire young musicians, and enrich the lives of the people of Hawai‘i.

    Why an Annual GET Return?

    Tom Yamachika
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    Why an Annual GET Return?

    For those of you who pay GET, here’s a quick quiz.  Let’s say you are a monthly filer.  How many returns do you have to file to report one year of business activity?

    The answer is thirteen.  Twelve will be monthly returns on Form G-45.  One will be an annual reconciliation return on Form G-49.  If your answer was twelve, take your “F” and go to the back of the class.

    Don’t underestimate the significance of the annual reconciliation return!  Here are some reasons why:  First, the three-year statute of limitations that the Department has to assess any additional tax never starts running until the annual return is filed.  Second, all exemptions, deductions, reduced rates, and other “tax benefit” items can all be disallowed unless the annual return is filed within a year after it is due.  Third, if the annual return isn’t filed the statutes of limitations start behaving crazily. 

    What do I mean by that?  Consider this case, which is one of the first I had when I was representing taxpayers.  My taxpayer’s auditor, at the time kind of an unknown guy, would go on to become one of the Department’s “ace” auditors and top producers (see how scary that sounds in a non-sales context?) and would be significantly promoted before retiring from the Department.  My taxpayer was being audited for the years XX1, XX2, and XX3, between seven to ten years ago.  It had filed all required monthly returns, but no annuals.  The auditor innocuously said, “I don’t have an issue with the total amount of income reported.  But I think $x of the year XX2 income belongs in XX3.  So I am going to assess you for year XX3.” 

    At this time I was still pretty green in terms of tax experience, so I thought, well, that would give the client an overpayment for year XX2.  So, I replied, “That looks fine to me.  But I’ll file a refund claim for year XX2.”

    “Go right ahead,” the auditor replied.

    A few days after receiving the assessment for year XX3 (which included more than a trivial amount of penalties and interest), I had the client file a claim for a refund for year XX2.  “Six of one, half a dozen of the other,” I was thinking.  “It’ll work out.”

    About a week later, I got a tersely worded, computer-generated letter.  There would be no refund for year XX2.  When no annual return has been filed, there is another part of the statute of limitations that kicks in and says that any claim for refund has to be filed within three years after payment of the money.

    Needless to say, the client was furious.  (Even though the client could have avoided the problem entirely if he had filed annual returns.)

    So what is it about the annual return that gives it such outsized significance?  Taxpayers in other states file twelve monthly returns instead of thirteen, and they don’t have to go through these kinds of headaches.  If there is some kind of accounting adjustment at the end of the year, they can just pull out the proper month’s return and amend it.  Is there some other significant information that appears on an annual return that can’t be disclosed on one of the monthlies?  Not really.  So why don’t we just make life easier for everyone and get rid of it?

    Nah.  That would be too simple.  First there have to be studies, and blue-ribbon commissions, and a few expert reports.  Maybe then someone will begin to think about this as an actual beneficial idea.

    America Needs Civility, Not Unity

    Sydney Ross Singer
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    America Needs Civility, Not Unity

    Political vitriol spilled over into violence recently with the assassination attempt on ex-President Donald Trump, prompting pundits and politicians to preach for unity. President Biden addressed the nation to call for national unity in response to the increasingly violent political atmosphere, asking everyone to tone down the negativity. In a nation increasingly divided, unity seems the only solution to avoid further disintegration of our nation.

    Unity, however, is a lot like peace. It’s sounds great to want peace, but what is its price? 

    Peace exists when there is no war. However, we can have peace through victory, or peace through defeat. Subjugated people can be peaceful, even if they are unhappy. We want to be the peaceful winners, not the peaceful losers. We want peace on our terms, or it is a bitter peace.

    Unity, like peace, sounds like a good thing until you look at it more closely. 

    Unity means those who are different must be convinced, or silenced. Differences are put aside for the purpose of coming together, realizing we are all members of the same club. It is a monoculture of thought and opinion that we are all supposed to believe, which is sweet if you already believe it, but bitter if you don’t.

    We should not want unity of thought, especially in the realm of politics. Disunity of thought and politics is natural for a large population of diverse people with diverse backgrounds and cultures. Open debate and dialogue are essential for a democracy to work, and a difference of opinions adds color and context to political debates. Calls for unity serve to suppress opposing opinions and squash free debate. Debate only exists when there are opposing positions, and does not exist within a unity. 

    What our nation needs now is not unity, or peace. We need civility. 

    A nation in transition, with polarized politics, needs more open dialogue and debate, not less. We need to express our beliefs in a civil way, as part of the healthy debate over our political future. 

    Being civil means accepting that others disagree with you without having to hate them and want them dead or canceled from society. It means that we respect the diversity of perspectives that together constitute our society, even if we vehemently disagree. 

    Here are some suggestions of how to be civil while still being true to your beliefs. 

    1. Give others a chance to speak without interrupting them.
    2. After they speak, summarize to them what they have said, to show that you were listening and to confirm that you understand their position. 
    3. Present your position without name calling or hateful words. 
    4. After speaking, ask others to summarize what you said to make sure they understand you.
    5. Don’t speak over one another. Take turns.
    6. Don’t make threats, and don’t use threatening body language.
    7. Keep an open mind if you can, since you might be wrong, after all.
    8. Think before you speak, and realize that changing your mind when exposed to new ideas is a good thing, since it improves the validity of your position. 
    9. Try using empathy to understand the motives and experiences behind those who disagree with you. 
    10. Accept that you can’t always get your way when you are part of a group. 
    11. See compromise as a way of achieving inclusion of diverse ideas. 
    12. Keep a sense of humor.
    13. Remember that you can disagree with someone, and still defend their right to free speech.

    The only unity we need is the mutual agreement to be civil with one another. We can hate and still be civil. We can disagree on basic political philosophy and still be civil. Through civil actions we can maintain our civilization. 

    Unity is the end, not the means. The means is being civil with one another. People have to agree to not fight or kill one another before they agree to joining hands in national unity. We need a unity of civility. The rest will work itself out, as politics usually does. 

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