'VIP cruises' serve important purpose
The Navy's program of demonstrating its equipment, skills and professionalism to the civilians they serve serves a valuable purpose. Its continuation shouldn't be threatened, at least not permanently, because of confusion over the cause of the Ehime Maru tragedy.

Hawaiian rights suits: They won't disappear
While two federal lawsuits aimed at Hawaiian programs and privileges may be running out of steam, supporters of Hawaiian rights should not expect them to go away.

Jerry Burris

Legislature should do only what it can do
If we can't make up our own minds, is it fair to expect our legislators to do it for us? That question forces its way to the surface each legislative session as lawmakers find themselves drawn irresistibly toward issues that probably are beyond their ability to resolve.

Tom Plate

Japan-U.S. relations: Are they lost at sea?
The submarine tragedy off O‘ahu should prod President Bush to intercede with the Russians over the Kurile Islands.

Bob Dye

Cayetano throws unnecessary support behind art museum
For decades I've hidden behind the good reputation of the YMCA's Bob Dye, with whom I share a name. But now a letter writer blows my cover, causing me to 'fess up. I am the political junkie who said the state art museum was an "elitist project."

Island Voices

Honoring those who serve
The words of our national anthem are the essence of our nation; indeed, we are the land of the free because we are the home of the brave. Last Monday we were reminded again of those who serve and sacrifice in the home of the brave.

Naval vessels always have welcomed civilians on board
Inviting civilian guests aboard naval vessels is an old tradition. In Dick Adair's days as a seaman aboard an aircraft carrier, he says "we often opened our hatches to groups of visitors who wanted to experience a bit of life at sea while we demonstrated our nautical skills."

Sensitive leadership needed by all
Did prospects for improved U.S.-Japan relations sink with the Ehime Maru off Waikiki last week? Probably not, but the reaction to the tragic accident demonstrates the fragility of the alliance and the growing need for the more sensitive "American leadership without arrogance" promised by President Bush.

Submariners speculate on 'what ifs' in collision of Greeneville, Ehime Maru
Both ex-submariners and Navy officials speculated on many alternative scenarios as the investigation continued into the collision of the 360-foot Los Angeles class nuclear sub Greeneville with the 174-foot fishing vessel in Hawaiian waters off Diamond Head.