HONOLULU (27 June 2002) — Lacene Hiroko Kalei Terri filed papers this afternoon at the State Capitol to formally begin her campaign for Senate District 23.

The district spans more than 30 miles of O'ahu's northeast coastline, and includes Kawela, Kuilima, Kahuku, La'ie, Hau'ula, Punalu'u, Kahana, Ka'a'awa, Waikane, Waiahole, Kahalu'u, 'Ahuimanu, He'eia and part of Kane'ohe.

Hawai'i Republican Party chair Linda Lingle said, "Lacene Terri would be a great State Senator because she has both the legislative experience and a dedication to her community."

"Lacene is a bright and energetic individual who is one of the most promising candidates for the legislature," said House Republican Floor Leader Rep. Charles Kong Djou (R-Kane'ohe). "Her background and policy objectives to stimulate Hawaii's economy, reform the public education system, and introduce fiscal discipline to our budget will bring a welcome change to state government."

Djou also serves as Honorary Chairman of the Friends of Lacene Terri campaign.

Explains Terri: "I want to offer voters a choice for a fresh perspective, a new energy, and effective leadership at our Legislature that's stalled by a 'business as usual' mentality. The ways of the Hawaii State government must change and I am committed to making those changes.

"I am representative of the next generation - the up and coming - who are here to stay, who have ideas and solutions, who are not apathetic, but want to participate in making our future better."

Though Terri has nine years of work experience at the Capitol, this is her first run for public office. Her professional experience also includes working in the private sector, supporting the Secretary General of the Pacific Basin Economic Council -- a prominent international trade association headquartered in Honolulu -- for nearly seven years.

Terri currently works at the State Capitol as Aide to 20 Republican Representatives of the State House. She is the daughter of Itsuko and Herb Terri, a retired firefighter (HFD) and ex-police officer (HPD). She holds a Bachelors degree in Political Science and International Relations from the University of Hawai'i. She attended Benjamin Parker Elementary School in Kane'ohe before going to St. Andrew's Priory for high school. Her family has lived in Kane'ohe for over thirty years.

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