APEC, APEC, APEC

I know there are various opinions as to the good and the bad of hosting the APEC. We, as Police Officers, should be the most open-minded since we are directly affected by the activities surrounding APEC. We are the largest local law enforcement entity; therefore, it is not an option that we accept our responsibilities to provide a safe environment for 21 economy leaders, including our President, as well as protestors wanting to exercise their Constitutional Rights.  

Two very distinct benefits I see that we, as members of "Hawaii’s Finest," and our State will derive are:

.   Recognition that we are a professional and competent local law enforcement agency that is very well prepared and capable of providing a safe venue for all events of this magnitude.

. APEC will inject a much needed boost to our local economy financially, and the beauty of Hawaii and our people will be showcased nationally and internationally.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit has been the “buzz word” for several months, and it's finally here!  As your elected President, a representing member of the Honolulu Police Department and fellow police officer, words cannot express my inner most feelings as to how proud I am to say that I am a member of "Hawaii's Finest" (Honolulu Police Department, Maui Police Department, Kauai Police Department and Hawaii Police Department).  

I have experienced physically, mentally, and spiritually firsthand the many sacrifices and demands endured by Chief Kealoha, his command staff, and our front line-member officers in anticipation of hosting APEC.  Strict requirements of attaining national instructors to train our instructors for implementation and application for required crowd management and civil affairs techniques and best practices were essential. This also included coordination and implementation of joint training with federal, state, and other county agencies (law enforcement and non-law enforcement).

Just a reminder that even as police officers, we and our families will be faced with traffic headaches and challenges resulting from street and freeway road closures. 

Let us all continue to be the law enforcement professionals that we are as we host APEC and its dignitaries.  Be vigilant, attentive, patient, and above all, serve with the Aloha Spirit.   

CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS

First and foremost, I would like to personally thank Hawaii County Chairman John Stewart, Maui County Chairman Michael Bates, Kauai County Chairman Jesse Guirao, and State Board Secretary Bryson Ponce for their sacrifices in coordinating and attending all sessions of their respective Contract Informational Briefings.   

Secondly, I am humbled and extremely appreciative of members who made the time to attend these briefings.  Although I had hoped the numbers were greater, it is still gratifying to know that in spite of precious time away from my family and expending my vacation days, it was not in vain. 

These contractual informational briefings were organized primarily to update our members about contract negotiations-mediation, legislative matters affecting our pension (retirement) and health (EUTF) benefits, and to address concerns of rumors that HPD is going back to 5-8 rotating.  I felt it was very important to also solicit suggestions and recommendations to better serve you, our members.  We have approximately 2,900 members statewide; however, collectively, only 168 members were in attendance. 

Currently, we have just completed our second mediation session.  Obviously with APEC being here, negotiations-mediation sessions will resume when the conference is concluded.   

As you are aware, the Governor has imposed upon the four county Mayors that county employees would receive a two-year contract, 5% pay reduction, 50/50 medical split, and no step movements.  Unfortunately, due to the confidentiality clause dictated by Chapter 89 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, I cannot and am very limited as to what I am able to disclose.  I am not one to assume; therefore, I will not assume what your questions or concerns may be.  But those who did attend the briefings had their concerns addressed. 

When all is said and done, I’ll walk away with my head held high and say I did my best, gave it my all, and left it all on the field for those who cared!

PLEASE VOTE

In the past, members have claimed they were not receiving their election ballots and voting information, which may have resulted in poor voter participation.  In addition to addressing this concern and in keeping up with the latest technology, this year, voting for Chapter Officials will be conducted on-line.  Please refer to the attached instructions for details

“MISSED, BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN”

Please keep our brother Eric Fontes and his family in your thoughts and prayers.  I will miss him for his God-fearing spirit which made him the outstanding Police Officer that he was, and yet an even better person with a “great big heart” filled with love, compassion, and wisdom for his fellow police officers and the people of our community that he served with humility.  And to all our brother and sister officers who traveled to Honolulu to pay their respect to the Fontes Ohana, thank you so very much for your support and caring words.

And let us not forget brother Herman “Sam” Scanlan, who is recovering from internal injuries from that same horrific accident that claimed Eric’s life as his injuries were nearly fatal as well.  Thankfully from the love and care of his wife, children and outpouring of support from his fellow beat partners and community, he is slowly healing.

CLOSING

As always, please take care of each other on the beat, and take care of your families and significant others.

Remember that SHOPO is only as strong as its members and member participation.  UNITY!  “United We Stand, Divided We Fall!”

I encourage you to visit our website:  shopohawaii.org and register on the “members only” port to access a restricted section for updates and important information. 

Stay Safe, Live Aloha, and God Bless.

TENARI R. MA’AFALA
President