DR. JAMES OGAWA SELF-DETERMINATION RECOGNITION

Dr. James Ogawa, founder of EOTP believed that blind people could benefit from the use of guide dogs and worked towards making this possible for Hawaii's blind residents.

With today's advanced technology the self-determination of blind individuals can be further enhanced.  At our 55th annual meeting, we recognized Mr. Ron Miyashiro for having demonstrated that people who are blind can lead independent and meaningful lives.  His motto, “Attitude determines altitude,” truly describes how Ron lives his life.  He sets realistic goals for himself and strives to achieve them.  His positive attitude and perseverance has helped him achieve numerous goals such as getting married; making the Mormon Tabernacle organ sing; and driving a car with the help of a rich farmer friend. 

Ron attended the Diamond Head School for 9 years then moved on to Washington Intermediate and finally graduated from McKinley High School in 1959.  He began performing in clubs and restaurants shortly after graduating then married Gail Kobayashi with whom he has 4 grown children and 9 grandchildren. Although currently on retired payroll, Ron still performs at the Chuck’s Cellar on Tuesdays and for the TL Gang Singers on Thursdays at the La Mariana Sailing Club Restaurant on Sand Island Access Road.  He also performs with his friends Roland Aton and even with the Carmen and Keith Haugen Quartet.

Although Ron has had two guide dogs, both of which were from Eye of the Pacific, he currently has come to prefer traveling by sighted guide with people like his wife.  He loves old time radio programs and listens to them on an internet radio that can also tune into  broadcasting from many areas around the world.  When he’s not listening to the radio, he’s doing his second favorite past time: talking with his friends on the phone.  His next goal is to see if he can get voice activated internet so he can contact people via email.