Why do gas prices vary so much among islands?
The real reason many people oppose another "meaningless study" on the subject of gas prices in Hawaii is because it will cost taxpayers a lot of money but, as has happened in the past, nothing will change.Most of these studies are watered down and influenced by the power structure (read politicians), whom the oil companies support to assure that they continue to make their very high profits.
As an argument in support of this, how do the oil companies justify the large difference in gas prices on the neighbor islands? Prices vary, often as much as 10 cents per gallon or more between the islands and even different areas on these islands.
Surely the cost of shipping fuel and doing business is not that much different. The real reason is that the oil companies simply charge what they feel the traffic will bear.
Since there is no competition between the two refineries or the companies that sell their products, they can get away with this practice.
John H. Gordon
Princeville, Kauai
Fewer Kalakaua lanes might endanger lives
The Waikiki Promenade Plan will reduce Kalakaua Avenue from four lanes to three lanes on the makai side along six blocks -- from Kaiulani Avenue to Kapahulu Avenue.How many of our people will be placed in harm's way, and possibly die, during a tsunami when that area of Kalakaua Avenue will become a bottleneck?
Christ P. Zivalich Jr.
Council has worsened traffic in Waikiki
I am outraged! The City Council actually voted to create traffic congestion in Waikiki with a new bottleneck on Kalakaua Avenue. Won't the tourists love more traffic congestion.It seems Honolulu has money for everything bad: a swimming pool by the sea, resurfacing streets that don't need it and excessive overtime. But the city lacks money for good things like police staffing and salaries.
If the city is really loaded with cash, it's time for lower taxes. But don't hold your breath!
Mark Terry
Civility reigned during graduation blackout
On June 7, Waipahu High School suffered a disappointing finish to its commencement ceremony. The reception for seniors, where family and friends congratulate them, could not be held due to a power failure at the NBC Exhibition Hall.I want to thank all of the students, their family and friends, who stood in the dark for more than a half hour -- hoping that the lights would return. You all showed exceptional patience, grace and composure in an emotionally trying time.
I am proud of you all and wish the members of the Class of 1998 success in their future endeavors!
Patricia A. Pedersen
Principal, Waipahu High School
PetWalk didn't break any city regulations
We would like to clear up any misconceptions about the Hawaiian Humane Society's PetWalk '98 held at Kapiolani Park on June 7. In his June 13 letter, Rico Leffanta called the event an "illegal" activity.We support responsible pet ownership, which includes always being in compliance with all laws. Although dogs are not normally allowed in the park, the city Department of Parks and Recreation has the authority to waive that restriction for special events. As in previous years, we obtained a valid city permit to use the park for two hours.
All of the dogs at PetWalk '98 were kept on leashes and were under control. To help keep the park clean, we gave each walker a packet that included "pooper scooper" bags.
In addition, dozens of volunteers were on hand to clean up any litter inadvertently left behind.
PetWalk '98 was a great success, with hundreds of enthusiastic participants enjoying an invigorating morning of exercise and family-oriented entertainment. We invite all animal lovers to join us next year for another celebration of the joy that pets bring into our lives.
Pamela Burns
President
Hawaiian Humane Society
Akaka, Inouye stood firm against tobacco
With the defeat of the McCain bill, which was killed by pro-tobacco senators last week, voters should sit up and take notice of the political power that big tobacco wields.Although Americans are concerned about protecting youth from becoming addicted to this drug, and support anti-tobacco legislation, it is clear that elected officials can still be persuaded to put aside obligations to their constituents for their lobbying interests.
Hawaii Sens. Akaka and Inouye withstood that pressure, and voted to support the McCain bill. Hawaii residents should thank them for doing their part to protect the health of children, and encourage them to continue to do what is necessary to stop making tobacco available to children.
Ceci Palmer
Japanese are actually very interested in guns
Anti-gun types such as Ken Toyama (Letters, June 10) use Japan as an example of gun control. Contrary to popular belief, the Japanese do have a very strong interest in firearms.Why else would there be more than 27 shooting ranges that cater to Japanese exclusively in Guam, a favorite Japanese vacation spot? Look at how many ranges there are in Hawaii. I have been told that shooting ranges that cater to the Japanese are also appearing in Las Vegas.
News reports from Japan indicate that more than one-third of Japanese in the 20- to 30-year-old age group would like to shoot or own a firearm. Imagine if firearms were made legal today in Japan. Because of their desire to own brand names, the Japanese demand would make American gun makers such as Colt, Smith & Wesson and Winchester run around the clock.
Vernon Okamura
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