Small Business Hawaii announced winners of its annual small business awards for 1998 at SBH's 23rd Annual Business Conference at the Ala Moana Hotel, January 13, 1999, during the luncheon program of the all-day event. The following received awards: (Clicking on each name takes you to a photo of the awardee.)

Karen Huffman, trailblazing woman owner-operator of McDonald's Aina Haina, Kahala and Koko Marina, was recognized by her small business peers for her personal integrity and initiative, many successful business, community and charitable achievements, including years of business leadership and political involvement and countless volunteer hours on behalf of the people of Hawaii. Huffman is an outstanding role model for women and entrepreneurs of all ages and gender. She represents the best in Hawaii's business community.

Tom Kaser, The Honolulu Advertiser, received "Outstanding Business Reporting," for his knowledge and accuracy in reporting problems-and successes-of local small business owners, in "Spotlight on Small Business in Hawaii." Kaser quoted owners directly as to why many businesses were failing and leaving the state. Last month, Kaser, a veteran journalist, moved to the Northwest.

Richard Borreca, The Honolulu Star-Bulletin, received the award for "Outstanding SBH/George Mason Business Editorial," not for one article, but for several consistent commentaries focusing on the importance of the economy and budgetary process to the social fabric of Hawaii, while relating the problems of governmental taxation and regulation to taxpayers and business owners. Borreca's articles advanced public understanding of the legislative and political process.

Malia Zimmerman, Pacific Business News, was selected, "Outstanding Investigative Reporter," for her dogged determination to go beyond press releases and politically correct spin to analyze the most critical-and often controversial-issues facing the small business community and Hawaii's taxpayers. At a time when there is a dearth of investigative journalism, Zimmerman consistently broke new ground in exposing short and long term impacts of issues such as the Governor's ERTF, union power and government budgeting, cost and waste.

Pacific Business News, was selected as the "Outstanding Business Publication " during 1998. Bernie Silver Editor and Larry Fuller, Publisher, were honored for the continuing in-depth business articles, profiles, "Fastest 50" feature and entrepreneurial focus. Members voted the weekly "the most useful" publication for their business last year.

Reg Baker, Reg Baker & Co./Pendleton Tax and Business Services, was named 1998 "Small Business Booster," for his strong community involvement and personal commitment to small business issues and advocacy. Without thought of recognition, Baker volunteers over and above his business duties to help small business and others and encourages small business owners to do their best under even the greatest adversity.

Rick Hamada, KHVH Real Radio 830, was a unanimous choice among small business owners for the coveted "Civic Leadership" award in recognition of active community and business involvement during 1998. Hamada is credited with stopping the 34% General Excise Tax increase, and other legislative costs to business and the taxpayer, in a series of successful public rallies, informational broadcasts and dispersal of useful information. Hamada was a tireless advocate for small business and the entrepreneurial spirit in Hawaii.

State Senator Randy Iwase (D), "Outstanding Lawmaker of 1998." was cited for his legislative leadership and outstanding efforts to educate citizens and lawmakers about the relationship between government and the people who pay for that government. Iwase offered constructive alternatives to the ERTF and tax increases and was recognized for "doing his homework" on critical issues.

Miche'le Harris, successful owner of Blue Moon Builders, Inc., business forum facilitator, a leader of SBH's "Young Entrepreneurs" group, community volunteer, and political activist, was named "Young Entrepreneur of the Year"

Nearly 300 people attended the 23rd Annual SBH Conference. The theme was: "Small Business '99: Four More Years-The Future Role of Business in Hawaii." Keynote luncheon speaker was Linda Lingle.

SBH was founded by Lex Brodie in 1975. It is Hawaii's most effective small business advocacy organization with nearly 3,000 statewide business firm members.

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