Discrimination forced gay men to crime

The immigration case involving two gay men and others ("4 accused of marriage fraud," Star-Bulletin, May 20) should be seen as a sad commentary on our laws.

If the defendant and his significant other were heterosexual, the defendant could have married his partner and there would have been no need to commit the alleged fraud.

It goes to show you that because of discrimination, some people might have to resort to breaking federal laws to get the same benefits as the rest of us. It is not just "shame on them," it also is "shame on us."

Senators should back marriage amendment

In 1998, Hawaii residents voted by 70 percent to protect the traditional definition of marriage between one man and one woman. With the assistance of judges intent on overruling the will of the people, same-sex marriage proponents are still working hard to redefine marriage. This is why a federal marriage amendment is necessary.

The truth is, the Constitution is going to be altered one way or the other. Either that change will come from unelected, unaccountable judges intent on creating a right of homosexual couples to marry, or it will come from the American people through this amendment to preserve marriage as it has served society for millennia.

Amendment supporters have been disparaged as bigots. How can that be, when the language being proposed is identical to the language of the Defense of Marriage Act, passed by 427 members of Congress? Are they -- and former President Clinton, who signed the bill into law -- bigots, too?

This aggressive campaign to undermine marriage as it's always been known can be defeated, but only if we all stand up to support the federal marriage amendment. Will Hawaii's congressional delegation do its job and represent the majority of Hawaii voters and support the FMA? Contact Senators Inouye and Akaka and let your voice be heard!

Developers know how to play the game

Turtle Bay developers surprised opponents, yanking the rope that lay on the ground for 20 years. It's a successful ploy intuitive to anyone who plays tug-of-war: haul, release, then yank (or double-yank) as your opponents relax.

Most of us play for enjoyment of life, but developers are focused professionals who train with our government agencies and officials and learn sophisticated facts about opponents abilities and motivations.

They are patient when they need to be and never yank without planning the next move. They never forget the goal: that pulling just one opponent's toe over the line is the win. That's why it's called planning, and that's why planners are well-paid.

I'll bet Turtle Bay can afford a big part of the hospital expansion that's so sorely needed up Kahuku way. C'mon, pull.

Bush was right about taxing and spending

"The way Washington works is, they will raise your taxes and figure out new ways to spend the money and not balance the budget."

That's what President Bush said in a speech on May 22, and he's absolutely correct.

Since he and the Republican Party have come to power, federal spending has increased by $8 trillion.

Way to go, George!

Parents, keiki should see inspiring movie

My husband and I recently saw the movie "Akeelah and the Bee." This should be a have-to-see movie for every parent, teacher and Department of Education official. It should be shown in every fifth-grade classroom in the state. I believe this incredibly inspiring story could light a fire in the hearts and minds of each child and everyone who wishes more for their children than what too often becomes mediocrity.

Although it seems like a simple story, it is actually complex, touching on many issues including family, cultural, social, political and psychological dynamics. It is a story of hope, courage and morality. It shows that nothing worthwhile comes easily; where there is loving guidance, discipline and perseverance, huge obstacles can be overcome.

True, not every child is capable of spelling-bee greatness, but each child has his or her own ability to accomplish much beyond the status quo, which is too often the accepted norm in today's society. The children are our future; by not encouraging the best from them by giving them our best is a waste.

This is a "must see" movie. We're ready to see it again. Take your Kleenex.