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Reader submission from Edward Bruce Kalaniokaapuokamehameha Keohohou

After making my decision, back in 1985, that North Carolina is where I wanted to continue
graduate studies, I figured I may as well get settled in. Settling in for me is to secure a physician, retain legal counsel and prepare for my earthly remains to be handled with dignity. This I have always done whenever I stationed myself in a new community. Seems odd, but when you're alone and haven't met people yet, you prepare yourself for life.

Among my list of things to do, I decided to register to vote. I contacted the Guilford County Board of Elections to inquire about registering and what requirements I would need. No problem! I can handle all of that.

When I got to the BOE Office, I approached the counter, and an employee asked me how she could be of assistance. I told her my intentions, and she respectfully acknowledged my request.
Now, bear in mind. I was advised to present legal identification. I had a letter with my present address on it, my driver's license and my military identification. In fact, I carried a copy of my birth certificate. I figured I was well loaded with identity accessories.

When the employee reviewed my documents, she asked where my "green card" was. I thought to myself, "Green card? What green card is she asking for?" Now, I had just gotten my Greensboro Library card, and it was green. So, I presented that her. She shook her head and said that was not it. I reached into my wallet, and pulled out my First Union Bank Card, it was green! She shook her head again and said that wasn't it.

She asked if I had my passport. I said that I hadn't left the country, and I don't usually carry that around with me because I'm not in a foreign country.

Another clerk, who was evidently listening in, shouted, "He's a citizen! He's a citizen!"

I was taken aback and thought to myself, (duh!), she wanted a Green Card! Like in, INS Green Card.

The employee reviewed what I had presented to her, minus the "Green Card," with the other employee. Then she said, "I didn't know Hawaii was a state?"

Well, that was my official welcome to Guilford County, City of Greensboro, North Carolina. It makes me proud to know that I am recognized as a citizen of this country.