Kim the ‘best man’
Hawaii Island’s Mayor Harry Kim — my husband’s former Hilo High School classmate and a classmate of mine when I attended the University of Hawaii at Hilo campus in the year leading up to statehood — in my opinion is the best man to mediate a meeting-of-the-minds between protesters and supporters of the Thirty Meter Telescope for Maunakea.
I know Mayor Kim personally to be a kind, caring and empathetic man. Mayor Harry Kim is the right negotiator for this difficult situation at hand, while working with community leaders.
Hopefully, there will be a compromising solution for all parties involved, with everyone coming to the table bringing an open mind. First, in respect to the scientists and people wanting to continue their work on the top of Maunakea without interference. Second, to the well-organized protesters in their pop-up tent village. These structures should not be allowed to become a permanent obstacle in a quest to resolve deeper issues which have been brewing in the Hawaiian culture for decades.
Yes, Maunakea, is deemed a “sacred mountain,” but just as sacred is the land we all live on throughout this chain of islands. No less sacred is all the ‘aina! We are all guilty at times of inactive accountability in the care for the land and ocean around us. However, we are, in an expression of thankfulness and gratitude, happy to be living in this special place on Earth. That being Hawaii nei!
In this multi-cultural society, we must strive to live in peace, harmony, understanding and have respect for all people. We should strive to perpetuate these ideas forward to our youth, whereby future opportunities in education through STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) may broaden their vision to see beyond the stars.
Marilyn Nobriga
Kailua, Oahu
Lost his spine?
The circus continues on Maunakea.
Growing up during WW II, I recall a Harry (Kim) of stiffer spine than our beloved mayor.
Acting on his famous desk sign, “The Buck Stops Here,” and quoting a favored saying, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen,” President Harry Truman made the hard and sometimes unpopular decisions that brought a terrible war to closure.
Mayor Harry (and Gov. David Ige), take note of how men faced and discharged the responsibilities of office in times past.
Let the kiddies fly their flags and play in the sandbox, but do your duty — open and clear the public roadways.
Richard Hoeflinger
Hilo