Baby steps
They say be thankful for small favors but decriminalizing 3 grams of cannabis (10 times less than an ounce) borders on the preposterous (Tribune-Herald, Dec. 23). And to add to the insanity, the fine for getting caught is only $130.
California decriminalized an ounce back in the late ’70s. How far behind the times can we get? Maybe about 40 years?
Nevertheless, mahalo nui loa Rep. Richard Creagan for getting the ball rolling. At this rate, possibly in 10 years we’ll be able to decriminalize 6 grams and lower the fine to $100.
We’ll really be flying then.
Andrea Tischler
Hilo
About TMT
This is an opinion about opinions about Maunakea and the Thirty Meter Telescope scope.
1. Why the proliferation of tickets at the Maunakea junction? It’s proof that police are doing something there, since it’s costing our county plenty much. Citations are evidence to substantiate the bill. Officers aren’t there to influence public opinion for or against the protectors/protesters, although it might be interpreted that way.
2. How come the blockade and camp city still thrives? Legally, Mayor Harry Kim does not possess jurisdictional authority since the site is on state land, not county. Responsibility resides with Gov. David Ige to enforce the law. It’s up to David to silence Goliath.
3. What’s the interpretation? Kupuna were arrested by county-paid police, and were cited for reasons other than their belief in sacredness. How does one define “sacredness” in legal terms?
4. When is it different? Compare the Maunakea scenario to the arrests of the environmental activists at the wind farm. Our Big Isle controversy transcends ecological issues. Of Maunakea, it has morphed into political, religious, racial, cultural and economic diameters, rather than just scientific.
5. So, what’s up? Regardless of opinions, it means less taxpayer money to fix roads, maintain parks, upkeep public recreational facilities, sponsor public community events and afford supplemental governmental assistance to the less fortunate.
Nothing’s free. Not even our Christmas presents.
Lloyd Fukuki
Waimea