Federal Managers Association

Opinions & Editorials

• FMA HONORS SENATOR DANIEL AKAKA - A TRUE FRIEND TO FEDS - April 12, 2018
• With the passing of Senator Akaka, the Federal Managers Association pays tribute to his life and work

  
  

  Having worked with Senator Akaka for many years on innumerable issues of importance to federal employees and good government, we came to know him as a reliable leader. He led by example, never disrespectful of others, and always endeavoring to make America the best it could be. We were saddened when he left the U.S. Senate, and now feel we have lost a friend.
  
  
  Below, we are proud to publish a short Letter to the Editor submitted by FMA member John Priolo, a former FMA Zone President, Odell Green and Gilbert N. Guidry Memorial award winner. 
  
  
  Dear Editor,
  
  
  As a long time advocate for active and retired federal employees I had the honor and pleasure to meet with Senator Daniel Akaka in his office in the Hart Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C. In spite of the weather, as soon as entering his office, one felt as if they were home again in the Islands. It did not matter which political party was in control as he was co-chair with Ohio Republican Senator George Voinovich. The two shared love and mutual respect. Senator Akaka lived the concept that "Politics was the Art of the possible" rather than the blood sport it is today. He knew that "'a 'ohe hana nui ke alu 'ia" (no task is too big when done together by all) and "'a 'ohe lokomaika'li nele I ka pana I" (no kind deed has ever lacked its reward). He will be missed.
  
  
  John Priolo
  Pearl City, Hawaii

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