I suspect this request came from a group of mean-spirited people who were probably cited or fined for cruelty to or neglect. of animals.
Not only does the Hawaiian Humane Society care for and protect the many helpless animals left on its doorstep each day, but it provides education for our community - which leads to increased knowledge and compassionate behavior.
The society brings joy to the lives of nursing home residents through the animal assisted therapy program. It helps keep animals and their disabled owners together through another program.
The annual pet walk and Be Kind to Animals Week are examples of some of the activities sponsored by the society for the enjoyment of all our people.
In these tight economic times, surely there is a better use for these funds.
Judi Gatto
Mililani
Pamela Burns, the society's executive director, pointed out that the approximate cost of $35,000 for an audit was ill-advised. The money, in her opinion, would serve a more useful purpose if it were spent on animal care and welfare.
She was unable to explain to the City Council's satisfaction why it was OK for the society to spend more than $38,000 on a television advertisement and an additional $3,840 to mail out 12,000 letters encouraging opposition to the audit. It was difficult to follow her unilateral position.
The Honolulu City Council should be applauded for its neutrality, while diligently listening to both sides of the argument.
Billy R. Ervin
Makaha
Carol Kim had time to run to her bedroom, lock the door and phone 911 for help. Thus, she would have had time to grab a self-defensive gun to protect herself, if only she had had one in her bedroom.
Terry Nakasone, who was wounded before being shot again, had time to escape to a second-floor bedroom. Thus, she had time to use a personal handgun, if only she had had one and was licensed to carry a concealed handgun by the Honolulu police chief.
Myles Nakasone ran and phoned 911, trusting help would soon arrive but knowing he was helpless to protect his wife. If only he had a right-to-carry handgun ...
Randall Kim might not have had enough time to save himself with a personal firearm against armed Michael Lau. However, no victim had a chance of surviving by dialing 911.
Brian Chun
Director
Board of Directors
Hawaii Rifle Association
On page C-1, Charles Memminger's column title was titled "Guns may keep crooks away." The headline reported a fact. Memminger spread a dangerous myth.
Every year, many Americans are killed with the guns of their spouses, friends and neighbors. Far fewer are killed by burglars, rapists and robbers. Most women victims are killed by husbands or boyfriends, not by street criminals.
America has far more guns than any other country and also the highest murder rates. More guns will mean more homicides.
Not until we join the rest of the civilized world and limit gun ownership will we lower the killing of innocent victims by the handguns all around them.
Jerome Manis