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Remarks at Halekulani Hotel by C.G. Yoshi Kamo

For the Aloha for Japan Fundraiser Event

April 22, 2011

Mr.Maeda and Halekulani executives,

Good Evening! And ALOHA!

I am most privileged to be invited to this gathering of evening fun, culinary delight and the spirit of Aloha. I would like to thank Halekulani Corporation for organizing this event. I would also like to thank all of you here for buying tickets. Halekulani is the signature hotel Honolulu boasts. It has made a unique contribution to promoting Honolulu’s profile with its first class accommodation, service, and meals. By serving many choicest tourists and demanding local residents, Halekulani is playing a lead role to enhance Honolulu’s image and reputation as a world class holiday destination.

In this time of difficulty in Japan, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Halekulani Corporation for their generous thoughts and support for the victims of the recent Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami by organizing this fundraiser event. I was impressed by their willingness to rally to our side despite their unfavorable business environment due to the sharp drop of Japanese tourists to Hawaii. The proceeds collected from this event will be donated to Japan through the Aloha for Japan statewide initiative. The Aloha for Japan campaign is a manifestation of generosity and compassion that the people of Hawaii graciously possess. It is a reflection of our long history of friendship and fellowship. It made us feel bonded with Hawaii. It made us feel connected to Hawaii.

Japan is still at work in responding to the disasters. The loss we suffered was enormous and the challenge we are facing is gigantic. The troubled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station is yet to be tamed. It may take more months to bring the situation under stable control. The leak of radioactive substances is continuing, but diminishing considerably. We managed to avert the worst. It is slowly getting better. But of course, we cannot be complacent and we will continue to do our utmost. I would assure you that the Japanese government is in full commitment to protect the health and food safety. We are taking every possible measure to provide safe, quality food to the local and overseas markets. Rest assured that you are absolutely safe in sampling the delicacies prepared by our master chefs of most renowned kitchens.    

Don’t forget to drop in the Halekulani shop and buy some boxes of chocolate before you leave here. You will love them. They are the best in Hawaii.

Thank you once again for your sympathy and support. Enjoy your evening.