FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                  March 13, 2006

Release M-28-06

MAYOR HANNEMANN OFFERS HIS SYMPATHIES

ON THE DEMISE OF MAGGIE INOUYE

            Mayor Mufi Hannemann today (Monday, March 13, 2006) expressed his sympathy to U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye and the family of the late Margaret Awamura Inouye, who died today at the age of 81.  

            “We in the City and County of Honolulu are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Inouye,” said Hannemann. “Her steadfast support and enduring love for the senator bespoke a dedication that endured over 60 years.

            “I always enjoyed my private conversations with Mrs. Inouye. She was always very insightful and down-to-earth at the same time. After I lost my first election, she gave me a good pep talk and told me my time would come one day.

            “Mrs. Inouye was a person ahead of her times. In her early years, she was a rarity, a woman from Hawaii whose achievements included not only a bachelor’s degree from the University of Hawaii, but also a master’s degree from Columbia University.  

            “As Senator Inouye’s wife, she preferred to avoid the public spotlight, but she  contributed mightily to the progress of Hawaii and the United States, through the good counsel she offered the senator.

            “Her gallant struggle against illness has ended, but Mrs. Inouye’s legacy and the fond memories Gail and I have of her will endure. We offer her family our deepest condolences.”

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Contact:

            Bill Brennan, 527-6928

            Mark Matsunaga, 527-5767