Schofield soldiers give Palama a scrubbing

I want to extend our deepest appreciation to the soldiers of HHC 65th Engineer Battalion from Schofield Barracks, led by Capt. William May, for coming to Palama on March 22 to carry out several work projects. They repainted the lines and markings on our basketball courts and parking lots, and scrubbed down and waxed the floors in one of our buildings.

This is not the first time our friends from Schofield have come to Palama. Last fall, they helped us with maintenance and repair work in preparation for the Christmas season. Capt. May hopes to maintain this relationship with Palama and has graciously offered to bring his soldiers again this summer for additional work projects.

During this difficult time when America is engaged in armed conflict, we are keenly aware of the commitment and sacrifices of our men and women in the armed forces. Whether they are serving their country on the battlefield or carrying out needed projects within our community, we want to thank them and recognize their dedication to the task at hand.

Robert T. Omura
Executive director
Palama Settlement

'Sunset' program a blessing for families

I would like to address the issue of Sunset on the Beach. I live right in Waikiki and it has been a real blessing to our family to have a night out together with dinner, live entertainment and a movie. We also have met many locals and tourists there. With the local groups displaying their talents before sunset and a family movie after, it makes for a great evening.

Many of the people who are at the beach aren't as fortunate as we and don't have a computer to write with, so I know I am expressing the views of many others. I hope Sunset on the Beach continues. I am glad that some of my taxes can go to this worthwhile program.

I only have one request: that the movies can always be seen by younger children without embarrassment.

Dema Sevcov

Djou has right idea on city park fees

It is refreshing to see the Star-Bulletin editorial staff agree with the comments made by Councilman Charles Djou regarding recently proposed park fee legislation ("Too many questions left unanswered in park fees bill," April 5).

During the February regular City Council meeting, Djou was one of two members to vote against Bill 3 relating to fees and charges for the use of parks and recreational facilities. He opposed the bill because the city already charged the taxpayers of the City & County of Honolulu. Their money was used to build these facilities, and he doesn't think it is right and proper that the city turn around and charge the very taxpayers who paid to build these parks.

He also pointed out that although the intent is to charge large mainland sports organizations, the bill does not include any exemption for the Honolulu taxpayer.

He concluded by stating the bill does not prevent the city from charging fees at all parks in the future.

Dan Morin

Shame on lawmakers for 'Aloha to Saddam'

In the past I have been amazed at some of the foolish things our legislators do. They were laughable, and sometimes even forgivable in their ignorance. Many of my mainland friends refer to our legislators as poor imitations of the "Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight." However, they have crossed the line by passing an "Aloha to Saddam" resolution.

They are no longer funny, they can no longer plead ignorance, and they can no longer be forgiven.

By passing this despicable resolution, they have shown me that they are not fit to hold public office.

They are a slap in the face to our military. They are a slap in the face to Hawaii. They are a slap in the face to our president.

I am embarrassed by their actions. I am ashamed to have them represent me. Come the next election cycle, I will do my utmost to make sure everyone remembers this dastardly deed perpetuated by all except two of our Democratic legislators.

Jack Schneider

State officials should heed veterinarians

I am writing to express my outrage for the defeat of "Ruby's Law" and to add my support to the ongoing effort to eliminate the existing pet quarantine law. This archaic, senseless, detrimental law reflects the backward thinking of those in the Department of Agriculture who support it. It has been substantiated that proper vaccinations are more effective in protecting our state from disease than any length of quarantine or the ridiculous five-day plan. I implore these officials to react responsibly to our requests to eliminate all quarantine to immunized pets; stop the deaths, pain and suffering of our beloved pets; and show compassion to their owners.

Hawaii does not want to be known for its lack of progress in changing laws that no longer are appropriate and for disregarding the advice of veterinarians who have provided their expert knowledge of vaccinations vs. quarantine.

It would be unfortunate to have the outstanding job done by the state Department of Agriculture be overshadowed by the poor judgment shown by this unnecessary pet quarantine law.

Lois Meyer
Kailua

Sonson's attitude on cruelty inexcusable

Like a rooster in the henhouse, first-term Rep. Alex Sonson finished off the House anti-cruelty bill, the one that would have strengthened the penalties for animal cruelty.

His sarcasm was appalling. It was directed at the representatives of the city prosecutor's office and the Hawaiian Humane Society. Sonson's comments made his colleagues laugh by suggesting that punishment for cruelty is ludicrous.

I wonder if Sonson would be equally amused if he were stabbed in the chest and his legs were broken. Would he still chuckle with mirth?

Sonson wanted to know if all 5,000 or so Filipino immigrants, ignorant of the law, would be hauled off to jail for allowing their "chickens" to fight. Is it too much to expect that immigrants adjust to the ways of the country they have chosen as their new home? Or should it be the other way around?

Rosemarie H. Tucker