Trump needs serious
lesson in economics
Well, everybody seems to be disturbed at the free-flying palace that the village idiot wants to take from Qatar. Smells like a set-up.
For the price of a 2012 used 747 jumbo jet, the leaders of the rest of the planet see how easy it is to bribe a less than competent president.
Everyone but 42% of Americans knows that Vladimir Putin bought lots of real estate with laundered money. It’s part of the same equation.
My favorite recently was repeating, when questioned, that there are over 200 countries in negotiations for tariff talks. Amazingly enough, there are only 164 countries on the planet. Whoops.
Not one new trade deal has been inked. They’re all letters of intent and such. Quick, look over there.
Everyone knows that 30% tariffs on China, from the campaign, was his original target. So the 145% that emptied retirement accounts was some kind of “I’m a great negotiator” poop.
Lots of ways to achieve drama.
And leave the best for last. Poke yourself in the eye. Shoot yourself in the foot. At a moment’s notice, China could start to unload most of our trillions of dollars in debt from the bonds that they own.
Could someone please explain economics to him?
Reducing the size of government and the national debt is a worthy endeavor. Doing it with any kind of finesse would be excellent.
God bless America. She needs your prayers now.
Michael Mamczarz
Kurtistown
Hilo Chocolate Festival
was a sweet success
On behalf of the East Hawaii Cacao Association, I would like to extend my heartfelt mahalo to everyone who helped make the 2025 Hilo Chocolate Festival such a joyful and flavorful success.
Held at the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, this year’s festival brought together local cacao farmers, chocolate makers, artists, educators and community members to celebrate the unique richness of Big Island-grown cacao.
With record-breaking attendance, the energy was as vibrant as the flavors shared throughout the day — from bean-to-bar tastings to educational booths and engaging conversations about sustainable agriculture and local food systems.
We are especially grateful to our dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors and the talented vendors who showcased their incredible work. Mahalo also to those who joined us early for our opening blessing, which grounded the event in aloha and cultural connection.
As president of the East Hawaii Cacao Association, I’m proud to see our island’s cacao industry gaining momentum and recognition. Events like this not only support local businesses but help build a resilient and flavorful future rooted in community and the land we cherish.
Alex Wessinger
President, East Hawaii Cacao Association
