Governor should make that trip to Japan

As an student from Japan, I support the proposal that Governor Lingle should visit Japan and give a speech on TV to tell the people how safe Hawaii is as a travel destination.

As we all know, the world is facing a tough situation, and Hawaii is no exception. According to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, tension created by war in Iraq and the danger of SARS is discouraging Japanese from visiting Hawaii. Local hospitality, travel and tourism industries are going through a hard time. Hawaii's people are again threatened and challenged both economically and emotionally.

Therefore, the governor must take significant action by flying to Japan and talking about Hawaii's safety to encourage Japanese not to hesitate to visit.

Aya Oguma
Hawaii Business College

Easter video project a waste of money

Regarding the Easter video ("Isle households to get gift of movie 'Jesus'," April 12): Do you suppose Kelii Akina, executive director of Hawaii Youth for Christ, could send me a TV and VCR for free so I can watch it in the privacy of my home? I don't want to watch it with a group, as that might defeat the purpose of sending one to each home.

With all the serious social issues we have on this planet, spending $1.7 million of donated money for a video project seems a shameful waste. I think Hawaii Youth for Christ has done a great disservice to its cause and cast a dark shadow on other Christian groups as well.

H. Yamada
Kaneohe

Sunset on the Beach is well worth saving

I think Sunset on the Beach is one of Hawaii's natural gifts that should be shared with residents as well as tourists. This is truly what Hawaii is all about. This promotes not only Hawaii and her beauty; more important, it provides bonding moments for families and friends.

I've experienced Sunset on the Beach a few times. Memories were created every time, along with the most beautiful photos.

Is there a financial reason for the closure of this event? If so, then we should hire consultants to turn it into a self-supporting venture. We know it can be done! Let's look into it. It'll be worth the effort and the city will come out of it smelling like roses.

Hawaii offers little entertainment for the young and families. Please do not discontinue Sunset on the Beach.

By the way, last August we brought 28 family members to enjoy "Princess Bride." Everyone had an enjoyable time. Thank you!

Wendy Loh
Kona Paradise Candies

Coverage of rallies showed paper's bias

I was disappointed that, in the April 13 Sunday edition, the Star-Bulletin devoted nearly a quarter-page to a photo of that pathetic, virtually unattended anti-war demonstration on Kapiolani Boulevard, which I witnessed, and only briefly mentioned the positive rally at Ala Moana Beach Park. But then, I have been disappointed with the Star-Bulletin throughout. I will include the Star-Bulletin with CNN in my pantheon of biased news agencies.

I had been a subscriber since 1978, and I had supported the paper's survival in the split with the Advertiser. But it is clear that the S-B has not given equal treatment to the people who may not agree with how this war was initiated but do wish to support our service members who are doing their duty magnificently to destroy oppression in Iraq. I think you have brought shame on yourselves.

Tom Fairfull

Djou has his eye on the mayor's office

City Councilman Charles Djou has introduced a resolution to the Honolulu City Charter to increase the number of Council districts and members from nine to 21.

Djou is proposing such an increase because, with the current independently thinking Council members, he will be unable to shine in the eyes of the people on Oahu and obtain the majority of votes needed for the office of mayor in the future. Djou left the state Senate to run for a City Council position because he knew that he has a better chance of being mayor than governor in the future.

Djou's calling for a 21-member Council reveals that he does not have a business mind. When a corporation increases the number of top officers from nine to 21, expenses increase considerably. Such are statistical facts in the business world.

Wilbert W.W. Wong
Kaneohe