Regarding marijuana
Regarding marijuana
It is heartening to see the progression of the legalization of marijuana, if only for medical reasons so far, and even more so to see all the letters of support for it. Troy Abraham (Tribune-Herald, Jan. 27) hits it on the head in his discussion of legalization and taxing it. It is obvious from the reports of the state of Colorado how beneficial the tax dollars are.
As Hawaii is a Democratic state, it should make more sense to legalize and tax it for the benefit of all, instead of the system it’s headed for right now.
“Big Pharma” is notorious for making useful medicine unobtainable or ridiculously priced for those in need. Only the large corporations will cash in.
I remember the days when we used to get a return from our tax dollars here in our state; we could return to that, or at least let our education and infrastructure vastly improve.
Dawn Hurwitz
Pahoa
Don’t forget Big Isle
Recently, Island Air resumed service between Oahu and Kauai for a temporary, discounted airfare rate of $63 one way, to which Hawaiian Airlines is matching Island Air’s prices to Kauai. It seems that Hawaiian Airlines only matches prices for flights between Maui, Oahu and Kauai when other competitors reduce their airfares for those islands, but rarely the Big Island.
Does Hawaiian Airlines only offer discounted rates when there is competition with other airlines? Hey, Mr. Hawaiian Airlines CEO, how about discounted rates for kamaaina on all islands, whether you’re competing with other airlines or not? And please don’t leave the Big Island in the dark when matching prices with other airline carriers.
Rick LaMontagne
Hilo
Slow down
Stop the madness on Haihai Street! It never fails, 24/7, that people are driving well in excess of the posted 25- and 35-mph speed limits.
Private cars and construction trucks at full throttle endanger lives on this residential street.
Of particular concern is the hill near the Ainaola intersection as drivers ignore the fact that, whether traveling mauka or makai, there will be little time to stop should a vehicle enter or exit Kaiao and Keone streets.
A tragedy is waiting to happen out there, and someone will be injured or killed. Then, the county most likely would be sued, taxpayers forced to accept another huge payout and then maybe some effective action will be taken.
I’ve already written letters to the proper agencies and authorities, and there has been little response and no effective action.
Until action is taken, I urge users of Haihai Street to observe the posted speed limits for your safety, as well as others. Perhaps it’s time for a social media stakeout — cameras ready!
Michael Springer
Hilo