REPORT: PRESIDENTIAL TOWN HALL MEETING

Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote sponsored the historic Presidential Town Hall featuring Presidential on May 17, 2008 at the Bren Events Center at University of California, Irvine. NPIEN President Elect Falanai Ala, Treasurer Elect Martha Donnenfield and husband Steve, NPIEN Chief of Staff Tino Andres attended and sat with June Pouesi, Executive Director of the Office of Samoan Affairs. There were many representatives from the Hawaiian community, and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs was a major sponsor. NPIEN was the only education organization listed as a sponsor. Although the 1,000 who attended were disappointed that the candidates were not there in person, it was good to at least view a satellite presentation from Hillary Clinton and a telephone conversation with Barack Obama, including questions and answers. The Pacific Islander presence was very good, and we look forward to seeing more in the future. Regardless of who you support, (We had quite a debate among NPIEN members)we encourage all to vote.