Akaka Bill backers like the new odds

(With Obama in town, here is what the Star Bulletin decided to run...)

"The results of the presidential and congressional elections open a window of opportunity for native Hawaiian initiatives and Hawaii initiatives," Office of Hawaiian Affairs Chairwoman Haunani Apoliona said in her recent State of OHA speech. "Based on previous expressed support for the Akaka Bill by President-elect (Barack) Obama, a smoother and timely passage and enactment of the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act is anticipated."

During his campaign, Obama said he would support native Hawaiian recognition if a bill were to reach his desk.

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Few donors cite president-elect's tutu

When President-elect Barack Obama's grandmother died of cancer last month, the family asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to organizations in search of a cure for cancer.

Up to last week, the Cancer Research Center of Hawaii, the only research center in the state, has received two donations in memory of Dunham, totaling less than $100.

Development Officer Cecilia Kramer said it's unusual to not get a bump in donations after families of a prominent person make a request.

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