Abercrombie names staff leaders

Democratic Gov.-elect Neil Abercrombie has begun appointing people to his administration.

Abercrombie named Amy Asselbaye yesterday as his chief of staff and Andrew Aoki as his deputy chief of staff.

Asselbaye, 40, worked as operations director on Abercrombie’s recently completed campaign, and Aoki, 41, was deputy campaign manager.

Asselbaye will be responsible for managing the Governor’s Office and Cabinet. Aoki will oversee policy development and strategic planning.

Abercrombie called them "the heart and soul of the campaign," and he said he is confident in their ability to serve.

Asselbaye previously worked in Abercrombie’s congressional office for 17 years.

Aoki was formerly a director of Kanu Hawaii.

Monk seal Saturday

Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument and the Waikiki Aquarium join forces today for Monk Seal Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the aquarium. The first 200 children will get monk seal plush toys to bring attention to the plight of the endangered species and to raise awareness of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands monument. Activities include monk seal button-making.