Letters | 4-20-15

Desecration vs. chance to explore

The Mauna Kea controversy fills me with sadness. I can’t help but view it through the truth that Hawaii was stolen from its people a little over a century ago.

Yet, don’t many kanaka maoli start their events with prayers to “God” or “Lord” or Jesus, rather than to Kane or Ku or Lono? Either way, there’s a strong belief in both cultures in divine creation of the heavens — whose stars have been so friendly to Hawaiian voyagers old and new — as well as of everything else.

So why should exploration of that amazing reality be seen as a desecration, rather than part of a search for greater understanding and appreciation of the universe we find ourselves in? Isn’t there a way we can come together to construct that telescope without it being seen as detracting from Hawaiian values but, rather, of allowing us to voyage not just by the stars, but to the stars?

Kelly Pomeroy

Waimea

Caregivers bill deserves hearing

Thank your for the opportunity to share my point of view pursuant to the need for discussion on the critical issue of caregiving, the importance of guidance, information and outreach especially for our growing elderly folks.

I happen to like Sen. Josh Green, but after having communicated my concerns through his office now feel it appropriate to express this point of view publicly.

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser published a front-page article citing the appearance of a conflict of interest on the part of West Hawaii Sen. Green. Earlier this session, Green, chairman of the Health Committee, indefinitely deferred a bill that would have required hospitals to provide unpaid family caregivers with instruction needed to perform medical tasks when their loved ones are discharged.

Once public confidence in an elected official has been undermined, it is difficult to restore. In this case, supporters of the bill that Green killed (SB296) have raised a fair question as to whether his close ties to the hospital industry influenced his decision.

The issue is not that Green is a doctor. The issue is the perception that arises when the chairman of an influential committee uses his authority in a way that benefits the industry that employs him — and happens to be major campaign contributor, too.

As our population ages and more families grapple with the complex care of older family members, the search for solutions to the challenges facing caregivers demands full hearing at the Legislature. Unfortunately, Green prevented that.

It’s wrong to place the interests of hospitals — or any other interest group — over the needs of kupuna who rely on family members for care.

This is an issue that must be addressed, and it must be addressed in a way that everyone can feel that the process was fair and open.

Robert K. Masuda

Waimea