Talk Story #49 – Volunteering in Hawaii’s 2012 Primary Election on Oahu

The televised World Olympics had its grand final ending, school has started for many children throughout the islands, and there will be the ebb and flow of peak vacation times noted on the Waikiki and other state wide status reports. 

News Action at polling precinct with Moana Pacific Towers nearby

What it Was Like to Volunteer in Hawaii’s Primary

Here in Hawaii, we just had our Primary Election for government positions, always an important process prior to the General Election in November. This year, many submitted absentee ballots for their voting privilege. Throughout the island there are similar locations like this one (pictured above), where I had volunteered to be a ‘Poll Watcher’ at a precinct in the Ala Moana/Kaka’ako area. 

Arriving prior to the 7 a.m. start, the place was bustling with the setting up of the whole organization. It was an enlightening day of just quietly observing for any unethical or problems arising (none), and the process of how certain situations were handled as the lines of voters entered. I was reminded that these were people from all ages and walks of life, utilizing their American right to make an individual decision on who was going to be in charge of running this state. 

Poll closure with all boxes sealed and locked, verifications with courier

At 6 p.m. (the closing of the doors), I watched renewed action of quickly (and very carefully) the removing of data tapes and ballots, the packaging and locking of the various voting machines, and all of the document boxes, and the double checking of serial numbers to master lists. About 20 minutes later, I called in to tell my headquarters that the polling precinct was closed, with all officially turned over to the courier who was responsible for taking everything to the main headquarters for the tabulations. 

Yes, this was on a very small scale, but a part of the whole and it made me so thankful for the dedicated, enthusiastic volunteers who take the time and effort to make it possible for us Hawaii citizens to choose how we want to live. It was a good ‘behind the scenes’ lesson. 

Hawaii’s Unique Identity

Hawaii is the 50th and last of the states in the Union and also in the last of the National voting time zones. We are unique and wonderful in being a state with our revered Hawaiian heritage, the Monarchy, and separate identity with the Pacific Ocean between the rest of the Mainland states. This very aspect of our beautiful surroundings and superb weather makes it so desirable to live here and…the real estate market so continuously in demand!

King Kamehameha statue in front of the old judiciary building

Let’s Talk Story!

For those in the military, or first time buyers, Kama’aina, or a brand new resident, perhaps someone looking for a 2nd home or investment…The Moana Pacific twin towers condominium (shown in the first photo) is a prime example for being near superb Ala Moana-Waikiki-Kaka’ako amenities, my gallery of available units is just a click away. Contact me, let’s ‘Talk Story’ over what it is you are desiring or needing, I look forward to it!

Aloha,
Jeanne@HawaiiLife.com