Study names Hawaii number one in the nation for meth use in the workforce

People often talk about the “price we pay to live in paradise”, referring to the high cost of living in the Aloha state.  Taxes are high.  Groceries are pricey.  Electricity is expensive. Life in Hawaii does indeed come at a high cost.  A recent study shows that the high cost may be one of the causes of a high rate of methamphetamine use among the workforce.

A leading drug testing company, Quest Diagnostics, conducted a study of millions of urine test samples collected from the American workforce, in an effort to analyze workforce drug use by state.  And what they found when looking at drug use here in Hawaii is disturbing.  According to their study, Hawaii ranked number one in the nation for samples testing positive for meth.  The national average was determined to be one positive test out of every 1,000 tests.  Quest Diagnostics discovered that meth use in the workforce in Hawaii is at 410 percent greater than that average.

Arkansas and Oklahoma followed at 280 and 240 percent greater than the national average respectively.  According to the study, meth use in the east coast workforce remains lower, with samples from New York found to be 100 percent below the national average.

Although a recent Gallup survey named Hawaii the “2011 Happiest State in the US” and we often use the phrase “lucky to live in Hawaii”, it is no secret that many residents face financial pressures of living in paradise.  And it seems this pressure is pushing some to find ways to work harder and longer.  Methamphetamine’s ability to increase energy in users is enticing to folks that need to work long hours – like those required by many construction and service industry jobs – or multiple jobs.  “Functional users” can also be found in competitive fields, such as law, where strong concentration and alertness are required to not only do a job, but do it better than the next person.  And when one considers the current state of the economy, staying ahead of the competition is sometimes necessary for survival.

But when one considers the harmful effects of meth use, certainly getting the “competitive edge” from meth is not worth the risks.  The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that chronic use can actually “significantly change how the brain functions”.  This can result in reduced motor skills, emotional and cognitive problems, hallucinations, delusions, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, and violent behavior.  Meth is also highly addictive and the effects may persist even after use has stopped.

“Highest rate of meth use among the workforce” is not a classification we can be proud of.  Programs like the Hawaii Meth Project are using public service messaging, public policy, and outreach efforts to educate residents on the dangers of the drug, prevent first time meth use, and reduce the number of users in and out of the workforce.

A surfer takes his chances on advisory-worthy waves off Oahu's south shore. Photo courtesy of JoahPhoto.com

Big Waves – Big Fun for Some, Big Trouble for Others

A storm that passed by New Zealand last week brought rough waters to the Aloha state this week. The resulting high surf advisory has been fun for some, and frightening for others.

Surf started building on Sunday and continued to grow, with waves reaching 15 feet on Tuesday. The summer’s most powerful swell – and arguably the largest south shore swell in decades – warranted a high surf warning, causing some surfers to head straight for the water and forcing other residents and visitors to enjoy the view safely from the shore.

While the waves have certainly brought some excitement to south-facing shores here in Hawaii, their power and the potential for danger has also meant more work for lifeguards and firefighters, and less business for surf schools and catamarans.

On Oahu’s south shore, the 16 lifeguard stands from Ala Moana to Sandy Beach are typically manned by 23 lifeguards. This week, seven additional guards were added to the staff to better ensure the safety of those entering the water. In addition, the fire department has been lending a hand to help with assists, using a chopper to spot surfers and swimmers in trouble, and directing rescuers to them.

In spite of ample official warnings and the mere site of the waves that should be enough to prevent inexperienced folks from heading out into the strong surf, many have done so anyway and as a result, put themselves and rescuers in danger. In fact, nearly 400 people have required assistance or rescue in the area between Ala Moana and the Waikiki Natatorium alone. And that’s not counting the assists that have gone unreported.

In an effort to keep visitors safe and not add to the numbers needing to be rescued, some surf schools have been discouraging visitors from signing up for surf lessons this week. Hawaiian Oceans Waikiki surf instructor Reynard Miura told KITV that surf lesson sign-up numbers “went down big time” this week.  Another Hawaiian Oceans instructor, Kevin Imura, explained, “I’ll be honest with them,” telling the visitors, “It’s not worth it going out there and dying out there. Come back on another day when it’s smaller. It’s more fun”.

Inexperienced swimmers and surfers were not the only ones advised to stay out of the water. Due to waves that closed out the channel near Kewalo Basin Harbor, Oahu on Tuesday, the entrance was shut down and boaters docked there were prohibited from leaving.  On the Big Island, the Pohoiki boat ramp in Puna was also closed Wednesday due to high surf that had caused rubble and boulders to be tossed onto the ramp. Catamarans that typically run snorkeling and sailing tours also took heed of the warnings and canceled some of their sailing trips this week.

Although no deaths have been reported as directly caused by the south shore swell, a diver from New York has been missing since Monday. He was exploring a sunken vessel with a guided group off east Oahu when he disappeared. It is unclear if the rough waters were the cause of his disappearance. The Honolulu Fire Department is continuing their search for him, expanding the search area to include Kokohead to Kaka’ako.

The 10-15 foot waves seen this week have reportedly decreased to 8-12 feet, and should continue to diminish to 6-8 feet today. The high surf advisory will remain in effect until 6 p.m. this evening.

Aulani Resort will include a taro patch where guests can plant and harvest taro

Oahu’s Waianae coast has officially become home to a Disney timeshare and resort hotel.  The project – already six years and a billion dollars in the making – is the first of its kind, as the only Disney resort with no amusement park affiliation.  But that fact won’t stop Mickey and Minnie from making an appearance.  Both attended the opening blessing today and will continue to be a part of resort activities, as guests rather than hosts.  This distinction is important in keeping with the intent of the resort – named Aulani, meaning “messenger from a higher authority” – to tell the story not of the Disney characters, but of the place in which the resort has been built.

Admittedly, there is a bit of irony in a fantasy-fabricating company like Disney insisting on intentions to tell the real story of a place, people and history.  In an interview with msnbc, Disney spokesman John McClintock acknowledged Disney’s reputation as “a storytelling company,” but reassures residents, “when we came to Hawaii, we didn’t come to tell our own stories.  We came to tell the stories that already exist here.”

In order to follow through on this promise, Disney invited input from Native Hawaiians. Brought into the planning process as “cultural consultants”, some Native Hawaiians had the opportunity to review plans for Aulani – from design to activities – and recommend changes as they saw fit.

The collaboration between Disney staff and local cultural consultants has resulted in the resort’s emphasis on Native art, customs, and culture.  Visitors to Aulani will be greeted by original mele created by singer/songwriter and kumu hula Keali‘i Reichel, enjoy Native art throughout the property, and be exposed to the Hawaiian language in the ‘Olelo Room.  In addition, guests will be offered opportunities to learn about Native Hawaiian culture and language through activities such as taro planting, poi pounding, and fire pit storytelling.

Does Disney risk oversimplifying the unique and multifaceted history and culture of the islands?  Perhaps.  But with the help of Native cultural consultants, their hope is to share the most authentic story possible in the limited time visitors have in Hawaii.  “Is it 100-percent authentic Hawaiian?” cultural consultant and owner of Native Books/Na Mea Hawaii, Maile Meyer asks.  She answers her own question by explaining, “Of course not.  But it’s as real as you can get in a visitor experience”.

Disney – and Hawaii’s economy – is counting on a vibrant visitor experience to keep guests coming back.  By 2013, when the resort is scheduled to be complete, Disney estimates that some 4,800 jobs and $634 million in economic activity will have been created by construction alone. Tourism officials estimate that Aulani could bring $300 million in added annual revenue to the Aloha state.  These numbers are encouraging at a time when unemployment is high and the economy is rumored to be on the brink of a predicted “double dip”.

Despite a time-share sales snafu, fears of recession, and concerns of cultural commodification, Disney’s first Hawaii resort is open.  Whether it will prove to be magic or misfortune is a story yet to be told.

The labor dispute between the Hawaii State Teachers Association (HSTA) and Governor Abercrombie hit another snag this week, further delaying a decision on the core “impasse” issue.

On June 24, just days before teacher contracts expired, Abercrombie declared that negotiations with the HSTA had reached an impasse.  The governor claimed he had no choice but to impose new contract terms, including the equivalent of a five percent temporary wage reduction.  The HSTA disagreed, promptly filed a complaint with the Hawaii Labor Relations Board (HLRB), and consequently become the first case to challenge impasse law in Hawaii.

When Abercrombie, the superintendent, and the Board of Education chairman sent a joint letter to the HLRB last week that made mention of the possibility for mediation – after the HSTA had requested arbitration – the union filed complaints with both the HLRB and the Hawaii State Ethics Commission.  HSTA believed that the letter was “ex parte” , private communication used to influence HLRB’s impending decision in the labor dispute.

HSTA attorney Herb Takahashi argued that the governor was using his power to influence the board and cause further delays, while Deputy Attorney General Jim Halvorson reminded Takahashi and the board that the letter was sent to both the board and the HSTA, and as such, did not constitute private communication.

The board agreed that ex parte was not a factor and dismissed the complaint, but not without hitting some snags of their own.  Just prior to the hearing on Thursday, board member Sesnita Moepono recused herself.  The Hawaii State Ethics Commission believed that Moepono’s husband’s position as a student services coordinator and HSTA member may cause a conflict of interest and as such, required Moepono to recuse herself from the case.

Moepono’s departure leaves only two board members and thus the possibility of a tie vote in this controversial, watershed case.  In order to avoid such an outcome, Halvorson reports he is assessing the state’s options.  As there is currently no process for replacing board members whom have recused themselves, options may be limited.

Hearings for the initial complaint are scheduled for August 25, 30, 31 and September 1.  Whether or not the board is able to replace Moepono, a decision will have to be made regarding the original complaints brought by the HSTA.  And this decision is likely to have long lasting effects on the governor’s position, power, and relationship with labor unions.  If the labor board rules in favor of the HSTA, labor unions will naturally gain some power and the governor is likely to lose some.  If the HLRB decides in favor of the governor, his authority may increase but his relationship with labor unions may suffer.

Was a taxpayer-funded Maui vacation necessary?

While many Americans spent time this week considering the negative consequences that the downgraded US credit rating will have on their lives, the press staff of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee spent time enjoying Hawaii.

Senator Akaka’s committee press staff has come to Maui to attend an oversight field hearing entitled “Strengthening Self-Sufficiency: Overcoming Barriers to Economic Development in Native Communities” on August 17^th.  But many of the staffers arrived a full week prior to the scheduled hearing.  And they did so on taxpayer dollars.

Akaka is being criticized for hosting the hearing in Hawaii rather than in Washington, DC.  Some say it is simply because Hawaii is Akaka’s home state.  But this argument seems weak when the costs of the trip – particularly during the summer travel season – is considered in light of our current economic conditions, the decreasing value of the dollar, and our country’s massive debt.

A stronger argument in support of the taxpayer-funded trip might be made for the local link to Native issues, as Native Hawaiians should absolutely have a voice in a hearing related to “Native Communities”.  However, sending the three Hawaii panelists to Washington, DC for the hearing rather than bringing the entire press staff to Hawaii for a week ahead of the hearing may have been a more financially responsible and cost-effective alternative.  And in a time of economic crisis, financial responsibility and sacrifices should be top priorities.

Press staffers have declined to answer specific questions and failed to return calls from The Daily Caller, so it is unclear whether additional committee employees will also be enjoying the islands on our taxpayer dime.  What is clear is that there is a level of disrespect felt by some citizens, and rightfully so.  Rick Manning from Americans for Limited Government explained, ““It’s outrageous that Senate Democrats have so little respect for the American taxpayer that in the same month they buried our credit rating, they’re heading to Hawaii to celebrate”.

If Akaka’s office has a rational reason for holding the hearing here in Hawaii, his staff should share it with the rest of us who are wondering why we are paying for staffers to take a Hawaiian vacation, particularly at a time when cuts to federally-funded programs are being made and the national credit rating has been downgraded.

Akaka is reportedly the only Senator who will be in attendance at the hearing on Wednesday.  If the committee is truly interested in having Native voices and issues heard, they could have stayed in DC where other Senators would have had the opportunity to attend the hearing.

Native issues are absolutely important and deserve the full attention of the committee.  But a hearing to discuss these issues should not come at such a high cost to taxpayers.  In fact, this seems to be in direct conflict with the economic theme of the hearing.  If staffers want to visit Hawaii, perhaps they could consider putting money back into the economy and plan a self-funded vacation on their own time and dime.

The hearing is open to the public and will be held at 9 AM at the Maui Beach Hotel on Wednesday, August 17, 2011.  For more information, visit the US Senate Committee on Indian Affairs website.

Hawaii has aloha for COFA migrants, but not sufficient funding

When the United States federal government passed the Compact of Free Association (COFA) Act in 1985, it made a promise to provide specified protections, economic benefits and domestic programs to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau in exchange for certain military permissions in these “associated” states.  Under the COFA, the federal government has the freedom to operate U.S. armed forces in the region and deny access to the associated states by other countries, and citizens of the associated states have the right to U.S. economic assistance and the ability to work and live in the U.S.

The relationship detailed in the COFA was intended as a mutually beneficial exchange between the U.S. federal government and the associated states of FSM, RMI, and Republic of Palau.  However, over the years, domestic U.S. states have taken on the burden of making good on the promises the federal government made.  The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 eliminated Medicaid benefits for migrants from the associated states, forcing U.S. state governments to provide social service and public health services for the resident aliens.  So while the federal government continues to benefit from military privileges granted by the COFA, state governments have been covering much of the costs of the arrangement.

Due to Hawaii’s proximity to the Pacific Islands, it has naturally become home to many migrants.  And while the Micronesians, Marshallese and other Pacific Islanders contribute to the work force and the cultural diversity of Hawaii, the state has become financially burdened as the result of the COFA.  Hawaii spends more than $120 million a year on services for migrants, while the federal government contributes just $11 million.

Although Hawaii wants to continue to show aloha to Compact migrants, the state can no longer do so at such a high cost and with so little help from the federal government.  This week Senator Akaka introduced the Medicaid Restoration for Citizens of Freely Associated States Act (S. 1502) and urged the federal government to follow through on the promises it made in the COFA.  If passed, this bill would re-establish Medicaid eligibility for Compact migrants living in the U.S.

Senator Akaka, noted that while “Hawaii has deep compassion and aloha for our brothers and sisters across the Pacific” the state cannot continue to bear the financial burden, particularly at this “time of severely constrained budgets”.

In consideration of the recent federal debt deal – that includes caps on federal spending and the creation of a committee that will determine future cuts – it seems unlikely that the federal government will find the funds needed to make good on its COFA commitments.  And if the federal government cannot provide the financial support it promised Compact migrants, perhaps it is time to revisit the rights and responsibilities detailed in the COFA and amend them accordingly.

The Drug War Debate: What Are We Arguing About?

Plenty of people in Hawaii have strong opinions about the prospect of legalizing marijuana. Some cite the medicinal benefits while others express health concerns related to marijuana use. Some believe that legalizing marijuana could help Hawaii get out of debt and others are afraid it will only create more problems. Here is what opponents and supporters are saying about possible risks and potential benefits of legalizing marijuana.

Those opposed to legalizing marijuana may say…
Marijuana is a gateway drug. They argue that if marijuana becomes legalized, more people will smoke it and in turn, more people will become interested in trying other “harder” drugs.

Marijuana increases your risk of cancer. THC itself is not considered a carcinogen. However, the smoke from burning marijuana has potentially carcinogenic chemicals, similar to some of those found in cigarette smoke.

Marijuana is addictive. Some residents worry that if marijuana is legalized and, as a result, readily available, there will be a higher risk of addiction. And with increased addiction, some fear that increased crime will follow.

Those in favor of legalizing marijuana may say…
There is no proof that marijuana is a gateway drug. In fact, some supporters argue that marijuana is a healthier and safer alternative to harder, synthetic drugs.

Marijuana has documented medicinal benefits. While it is not a cure for any disease, it does treat symptoms – such as nausea, pain, and loss of appetite – related to more severe illnesses like cancer and HIV/AIDS.

Marijuana has not been proven to be physically addictive. Former Surgeon General Jocelyn Elders explained it this way: “Marijuana is not addictive, not physically addictive anyway”. While it can be argued that people become psychologically addicted, those that cease using marijuana do not face severe physical withdrawal symptoms associated with addiction.

Revenues from legal marijuana could pull Hawaii out of debt. It is no secret that Hawaii is currently deep in debt. Legalizing marijuana would make it possible for the state to collect taxes on marijuana sales. A study conducted in 2007 by University of Hawaii-West Oahu professor, William Boyd, found that approximately $33 million a year in tax revenue and savings could be generated by the legalization of marijuana. There would be less money spent on enforcement and court costs, and more money generated in taxes. This money could then be used to support other public programs, particularly those – such as education – that have recently faced significant cuts. In a Star Bulletin article, President of the Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii, Pamela Lichty, explained, “A policy of taxation and regulation would raise enough money to pay for all the adult education programs and the A+ children’s program combined, or run all our public libraries”.

The state must weigh the scientific facts, potential consequences, and patient benefits as well as financial factors when making decisions about Hawaii marijuana laws. In time and through future marijuana-related legislation, perhaps, we will find an answer to the question: Do the benefits of legalizing marijuana outweigh the possible risks?

Were Thai workers on Aloun Farms forced to and live and work in inhumane conditions?

Hawaii agriculture is big news in Thailand.  But sadly, this news is not about our “slow food” movement or the health and economic benefits of island grown produce.  International media outlets, such as the Bangkok Post, are reporting on Hawaii’s Aloun Farms and their allegedly illegal and inhumane treatment of farm workers from Thailand.

This week marks the beginning of a federal trial for Alec and Mike Sou, the two brothers who run Aloun Farms.  The Sous are accused of forced labor and human trafficking, and face a dozen charges each, including visa fraud conspiracy.

The brothers brought Thai workers to Hawaii under the U.S. agricultural guest-worker program that is meant to allow U.S. agricultural employers to “bring nonimmigrant foreign workers to the U.S. to perform agricultural labor or services of a temporary or seasonal nature” at times when they anticipate a shortage of domestic workers.

But prosecutors believe that 44 of these workers were charged exorbitant recruitment fees, promised higher wages than they were given, forced to live in metal containers, and treated inhumanely.  The Thai workers claim that they were told if they complained about the living or working conditions, they would be sent home to Thailand.  With debt of recruitment fees still on their shoulders, the workers knew if they returned home early, they would lose their homes and land.

Some workers reported they even felt suicidal from the pressure. In a recent Bangkok Post article, one worker explained, “”No one wanted to speak up because we didn’t want to be sent home.  There was a lot of pressure. I felt suicidal, like I wanted to hang myself, because there was no way to repay my debt”.

The Sou brothers are refuting the workers’ claims, insisting that the workers were never threatened or harmed, were free to leave at any time, and that their debt in Thailand was not the Sous’ responsibility.

But the Sous must have felt some responsibility – or at the very least, some sense of guilt – as the pair previously pled guilty under a plea agreement in January of 2010.  In their plea, they admitted to violating the U.S. agricultural guest-worker program, but denied using tactics of mistreatment, underpayment, and withholding of workers’ passports to force them to continue working at Aloun Farms.

When the brothers disputed some of the facts of the case, Chief U.S. District Judge Susan Oki Mollway threw out the plea agreement.  In turn, the brothers withdrew their guilty plea, forcing the case to go to trial.

If convicted, the brothers could face up to 20 years in prison without parole.  Supporters of the Sous have asked for lenient sentencing, insisting that if the Sous were put in prison, the state would suffer, as it relies heavily on foods supplied by the 3,000 acre Aloun Farms.  Certainly, food security is a great concern in our isolated islands.  But with the world watching, wouldn’t we be wise to do what is right?  If the Sou brothers are, in fact, found guilty – of human trafficking, forced labor, conspiracy or otherwise – they should face the lawful consequences of their actions.

Medical marijuana laws have been making news headlines in Hawaii for over a decade.  Challenges and proposed changes to the laws can cause some confusion.  And cases such as Rev. Roger Christie’s have some residents asking questions about Hawaii medical marijuana laws.  What exactly are Hawaii medical marijuana laws?  Who qualifies for medical marijuana?  What does the process of becoming a medical marijuana patient involve?

On June 14, 2000, Hawaii became the first state to pass a medical marijuana law through the legislature, rather than by voter initiative.  The Hawaii Medical Marijuana Act allows medical marijuana patients and their caregiver to possess a total of three mature marijuana plants, four immature plants, and once ounce of usable marijuana per each mature plant.

In order to become a legal medical marijuana patient in the state of Hawaii, one must complete the application process.  A licensed physician’s recommendation is required before any additional application steps can be taken.  Physicians may recommend medical marijuana to patients whom have a serious medical condition such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, glaucoma, severe pain, seizures, and other medical conditions designated as “debilitating” by the Department of Health.  On behalf of the patient and at the discretion of the physician, a certification form from the Narcotics Enforcement Division (NED) can be requested.  The completed form must be mailed with a copy of the patient’s photo ID and a check for the registration fee – $35 as of August 1, 2011 – to the NED.

While the application process seems straight forward, qualifying patients must abide by some fairly strict rules in order to avoid trouble with law enforcement.  Physicians are not required by law to recommend medical marijuana.  As such, there is no guarantee that a patient will even receive application assistance from their physician.  In the event that a patient is approved, the physician is not authorized to recommend dispensaries or assist patients with the purchase of medical marijuana.  In addition, the medical marijuana identity registration certificate – also known as a medical marijuana card or “Blue Card” in Hawaii – is only valid for one year from the month in which the application is received.  During that time, patients are required to report any changes to their information within five business days.  Failure to do so can lead to revocation of the certificate.  In order to continue using medical marijuana, patients must be re-certified each year.  And although qualifying patients are legally allowed to use medical marijuana, they may not use it in a public place or while driving.  The Hawaii Medical Marijuana Act states that any use that may endanger the health of another person is prohibited.

Many questions regarding Hawaii medical marijuana still remain unanswered.  Why do Hawaii medical marijuana laws and enforcement continue to fall under the NED rather than the Department of Health?  Will the state agree to a reciprocity relationship with other states that have legalized medical marijuana?  Will the law eventually allow for the establishment of a dispensary system to assist patients with their prescription purchases?  All of these questions and more are being considered and debated as lawmakers attempt to balance the concerns of residents and the needs of patients.

1,000 paper cranes at Hiroshima: 1,000 reminders of hope and peace

The USS Arizona Memorial is a site of great historical significance and intense emotions.  Nearly 70 years ago, 1,102 USS Arizona crewmembers and an additional 1,245 military personnel and 57 civilians were killed when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, in what was described by then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt as “a date which will live in infamy”.

Each year, approximately 1.5 million people visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial – a top tourist destination – to learn about the events of December 7, 1941 and America’s consequent entry into World War II.  Visitors come from around the world to pay their respects to the lives lost there.

But today respect will be paid in a new way.  Grand tea master of the highly regarded Urasenke School of Tea, Dr. Genshitsu Sen, will perform a traditional Japanese tea ceremony inside the USS Arizona Memorial.  During World War II, Sen served in the Japanese naval air force and would have been considered an enemy.  However, today the grand tea master will not only meet with two Pearl Harbor survivors, the current commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet (Adm. Patrick Walsh), and the Japanese consul general in Honolulu (Yoshihiko Kamo) at the site of the USS Arizona Memorial; Sen will actually prepare and serve them Japanese green tea in the style of traditional ceremony.

Hosting a Japanese tea ceremony at Pearl Harbor could potentially be seen as disrespectful to the memories of those who died there.  However, Superintendent of World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, Paul DePrey, explained, “The USS Arizona Memorial is a special place of healing which represents our nation’s Pacific War history, from engagement to peace.  It is particularly significant that Dr. Sen will perform a tea ceremony at this sacred site, and our hope is that this event will further strengthen the friendship between our two countries”. (Source)

The tea ceremony is a tradition that has been an important part of Japanese culture for at least 500 years.  It involves prescribed movements and deep consideration for the guest.  Today it will be a gesture of respect, and a celebration of partnership and peace.

Daniel Martinez, the National Park Service’s chief historian for the USS Arizona Memorial offered his perspective and support of the event, stating, “This goes a long way, I think, in reminding people that that terrible war is over and these two countries have been at peace and allies for the last 65 years”.  (Source)

So while that day – December 7, 1941 – may very well, as Roosevelt suggested, live on in infamy, this day – July 19, 2011 – is planned as one to be remembered for the friendships forged and honor given to those who lost their lives.  The USS Arizona is indeed a site of sorrow, but perhaps today it can be a place of peace, reflection and respect.

The ceremony is expected to begin at 7:30 am.  As the event is closed to the public, tours to the USS Arizona Memorial will be closed until 9:45.  The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center will remain open throughout the day.