Gail Tagashira from Valencia, California, received one of three "Pride of Dole" awards on January 10, 2003 at a breakfast at Treetops Restaurant. The following is excerpted from a Honolulu Advertiser article that was published on January 12:

Three graduates of Dole Middle School on Friday received the "Pride of Dole" award from their alma mater for their achievements and contributions to the community.

Gail Tagashira, an editor with the Los Angeles Times, attended Dole from 1960 to 1962. She credits her first journalism teacher at Dole as an important influence in her 30 years as a journalist.

School administrators say one purpose of the award is to inspire Dole Middle School students with examples of alumni who have become successful in their personal and professional lives.

CONGRATULATIONS, Gail!!!  : )