Global Vision Summit 2005
Homeland Security
Workshop Summaries

1. Hawai'i State Civil Defense – “Preparing for Disaster”
Presented by Mr. Leighton Ah Cook, Branch Chief

Mr. Ah Cook’s presentation focused on the role of Civil Defense in homeland security. He gave a general overview of Civil Defense at both the local and federal levels by addressing their mission and core values. He listed different types of roles, responsibilities, and procedures to take when the state or country is being threatened by natural disasters, man-made disasters, or terrorist attacks. He passed out information about the Homeland Security Advisory System and what the public can do in emergency situations.

2. United States Coast Guard – “Waterfront and Port Security”
Presented by Ensign Jason Parker;
Ltjg. John Titchen, Sector Honolulu Community Duty Officer;
Lt. Jeff Dolan, Honolulu Field Intelligence;
James Snyder, Petty Officer, Sector Honolulu Intelligence Specialist

The U.S. Coast Guards’ presentation started with a role-playing session on what they do when reprimanding a person suspected to be a terrorist. They also informed students on the duties and responsibilities of the Coast Guard as well as other branches of the military, and the importance of their jobs. Students were then able to interact with presenters, try on uniforms, and hold some of their weapons.

3. University of Hawai'i at Manoa Law School – “The Patriot Act”
Presented by Professor Larry Yackle

Law Professor Yackle’s began his presentation by affirming that the U.S. has dealt with acts of terrorism overseas for a very long time. He cited other recent U.S. responses to give context and understanding to the role that the Patriot Act plays in today's fight against terrorism. He discussed various sections of the Act in detail, explained its importance, and talked about the controversies around the Act itself. At the end of the presentation, there was a lively discussion about the ends to which we as a society will go to ensure our homeland security.

4. Department of Health – “Bioterrorism and Public Health”
Presented by Mr. Art Tani. MPH

Mr.Tani spoke about how important public awareness is when it comes to bioterrorism. He presented valuable information to students about the different types of biochemical substances that terrorists can use to create mass frenzy and fear. He also relayed methods of prevention and steps to take if a bioterrorist attack ever occurred.

5. American Red Cross – “Responding to Crisis”
Presented by Maria Lutz, Director of Disaster Services

Ms. Lutz spoke about the role of the American Red Cross in times of emergency relief. She gave a general overview of the organization and its history. She then described the types of aid that the Red Cross provides and who they service. She referred to various current disasters such as the 9/11 attacks and the South Asian tsunami relief efforts when speaking about the Red Cross’ efforts and its significance in the international community.

6. Honolulu Advertiser-“The Media’s Role in Imparting Information on Disaster Security Threats” Presented by Mr. William Cole, Military Reporter

Mr. Cole’s presentation focused on the role of the media in homeland security. He spoke about his own personal experiences as a war journalist in Iraq. He showed the students personal photographs and talked about how the media portrays war, terrorism, and homeland security. He mentioned the significant relationship between public opinion and the media in regards to various issues, including terrorism.

7. Customs and Border Protection – “An Overview of Customs and Border Protection” Presented by Creighton Goldsmith, Chief Inspector

Mr. Goldsmith talked about the importance of customs and border protection in ensuring the nation’s safety from terrorism and other potential threats. He spoke about the processes and procedures used to inspect suspicious activity and relayed information about what the general public can do.