Bring back the magic, tranquility of Waikiki

Whoever inaugurated the weekend free movies in Waikiki has contributed to killing whatever magic remained here. Visitors spend thousands of dollars to experience these islands, especially Waikiki, and locals love the magic of the place. And what do they get? On weekends they get old movies with loud soundtracks that destroy any romantic notions people may have arrived here with.

Let's keep Hollywood in the theaters and the visitors on the beach, viewing the moon and the waves, which have their own special soundtracks. Keep a few of the food stalls -- everyone likes to eat, especially if they are sharing with a loved one on the beach. This will appeal more to locals than old movies.

If city officials really want to do something useful, they should crack down on those motorcyclists who destroy what little tranquility that remains by gunning their engines and splitting eardrums, especially on Sundays. And, of course, require bus operators to operate quiet vehicles.

Failure to take these and other measures to enhance the magic of Waikiki can only mean "Paradise Lost."

Charles Pomeroy

Waikiki beach events are good for residents

While I sympathize with the writer of the letter "Waikiki beach events are bad for business" (Star-Bulletin, March 27), I think she has missed the point about why these events were begun.

As a resident of Waikiki I've seen the loss of dozens of "local" businesses, small motels, restaurants, bars and shops catering mostly to those of us who live here. Most have been replaced by tourism-related businesses that residents have little or no use for.

Sunset on the Beach and the monthly Brunch on the Beach are events for the community of Waikiki and the people of Oahu. They bring people together for entertainment, food and fun. They are well attended and generate a lot of revenue.

Traffic congestion is something we will always have in Waikiki. If these events cause such disruptions, I'm sure the writer would also like to get rid of parades and marathons.

I applaud Mayor Harris for this effort to make Waikiki more livable and to bring more locals in to experience all it has to offer. After years of loss, this is one gain that helps us all come together and feel the spirit of aloha.

Greg Boorsma
Waikiki

Brunch on the Beach must continue

It has come to my attention that funding might not continue for the Brunch on the Beach.

I can't think of a better way to introduce the foods of Hawaii than to have them prepared by your local chefs and offered to visitors.

My daughter and I have visited Waikiki many times throughout the years and have always been impressed by the programs offered through the city Parks and Recreation Department. Without these fine programs we would not have the opportunity to be introduced to the culture of your citizens. We have always enjoyed the evening performances at Kuhio Park.

Your city bus service is the finest, too.

My daughter and I will again visit your wonderful island in October. We would like to plan our travel dates around the second Sunday so that we will be able to attend the Brunch on the Beach. We hope that the City Council will continue funding for this event.

Joanne Anderson
Aptos, Calif.

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