Email to supporters May 18, 2012:

Aloha friends,

As you may have heard from the news, I have decided to reopen JRA, Inc., my mediation, arbitration and consulting practice. This was not an easy decision as I was greatly honored to serve my alma mater, St. Louis School, as executive vice president of development and recruitment.

By returning to private legal practice, I will specialize in family law matters and also join a panel of mediators for Dispute Prevention & Resolution, Inc.

It is an exciting and challenging opportunity to bring people together during a difficult time in their lives. This is yet another blessing in my career of service to the people of Hawaii, which includes my roles as a city prosecutor, city attorney, state judge and Lt. Governor.

People often ask if I plan to run for elected office again, and I'm deeply humbled by their confidence in me. I have not made a decision about returning to public service, but remain open to the idea.

Mahalo for your support.

Aloha ke Akua,

Duke Aiona 

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CB May 17, 2012: Pat Saiki for Governor?

Star Adv April 7, 2012: Aiona will focus on practicing law but is still open to public service in the future

Aiona served as executive vice president for development and recruiting since January 2011. His last day is April 30. He will offer private mediation and arbitration services with a focus in family law in his private practice, JRA Inc.

On May 1, Aiona will also join a distinguished panel of former judges and legal experts at Dispute Prevention & Resolution Inc. as an arbitrator. According to DPR's website, the firm has provided dispute resolution services to Hawaii's legal business, construction, insurance, medical and judicial communities since 1995….

Aiona, who lost to Neil Abercrombie in the 2010 governor's election, said he is not ruling out the 2014 gubernatorial race. "That's something I would consider when the time is right. The time is not quite right — right now," he said.

"For me, it's always been about public service. That's first and foremost," he added….

Saint Louis School President Walter Kirimitsu said Aiona has greatly contributed to the school and played a large role in building enrollment. In the past school year, enrollment increased 15 percent. For the upcoming 2012-2013 school year, applications for admission increased 25 percent. He also led the school's efforts in fundraising and marketing.

"He's done a great job in a short time," said Kirimitsu. "We're very grateful for the service that he gave in the past year and a half. He did an outstanding job."

Kirimitsu added: "We all learned a lot from him. We wish him the very best."

read … Aiona Move?

HNN, April 7, 2012: Aiona ‘Excited about Opportunity to bring people together’

"I'm excited about this new opportunity to bring people together," said Aiona. "I've been blessed to serve the people of Hawaii in different ways, and this is another challenge I'm looking forward to." …

"Being a small business owner provides me with the flexibility I need to take on different challenges that may arise," said Aiona.

read … Aiona