Letters to the Editor
Taniguchi deserves kudos for his efforts
Congratulations to Sen. Brian Taniguchi for his sincere efforts in putting together a draft budget that provides pay raises for teachers.
Taniguchi gives an unexpected definition to "politician" — "a gentleman of honor" comes readily to mind.
If, through his efforts, the statewide teachers' strikes are settled, then Taniguchi will deserve an additional accolade: "hero of the people."
Diane Chinen
Teacher, Waimanalo Elementary and Intermediate School
Sacrifices needed to support teachers
I'm proud of Hawai'i's teachers for standing firm and doing what they know is right.
As a parent, I'm doing my best to home-school my children during the strike. It's one way I can support the teachers' cause.
We must all make sacrifices right now in order to achieve the long-term goal of an improved educational system in Hawai'i. Teachers deserve to feel worthy and be well-compensated in order to provide top-quality service to our children.
Unfortunately, our governor appears to see the teachers as a commodity that can be manipulated by his political tactics. It is Gov. Cayetano who is keeping our children out of school and away from their entitledÊeducation.
Chris C. Bayot
Chinese intercept pilot caused the collision
Regarding the China-U.S. confrontation over the recent aircraft collision: Apparently your editorial writer didn't read your articles on the incident that detail the dangerous and erratic maneuvers by the Chinese intercept pilot who caused the collision. This is plainly evident from the April 6 hand-wringing "China tests Bush" editorial.
Even more naive is the contention that the United States should cease surveillance of an antagonist Chinese regime that, together with their pawn North Korea, represents the most severe threat to peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
The United States is the only restraint on the Chinese, who are chomping at the bit to attack Taiwan. The missile shots across the Straits and simulated invasions of the island make the Chinese strategy conspicuous.
James Reed
'Militarism' was used in inappropriate way
Regarding Kyle Kajihiro, program director for the American Friends Service Committee, Hawai'i Area Program, and his April 3 Island Voices commentary "Militarism sank the Ehime Maru": The word "militarism" is used as the acceptance of military spirit and ideals on civil life. Absolute obedience and subordination characterize military life. If this spirit is applied to civil life, be it in family, school or business, then militarism prevails in such a society.
There was the German militarism and the Japanese militarism in the past century that led to two devastating wars, which were fought successfully mainly by the U.S. Army and Navy. It would mean a complete misunderstanding of militarism and the history of the past century to apply the word "militarism" to U.S. society.
If someone is using words in an inappropriate manner, one might suppose that also his arguments are incorrect.
Fritz "Feledi" Reichert
Kailua
Benefit will help Honolulu Boy Choir
For almost 27 years, the Honolulu Boy Choir has been a local fixture, providing music with a local flavor and musical training for boys age 7 to 14.
The choir has nearly 80 members. The boys come from all areas of O'ahu. and charges no tuition (a rarity among major U.S. children's choirs).
Outrigger Hotels & Resorts and the Society of Seven have donated their resources and services for a benefit for the choir on Sunday, April 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Outrigger Waikiki Main Showroom. Official information can be obtained at 596-SING (7464).
My almost 10-year-old has been with the choir since he was 7. The changes in Chris from his involvement with the choir are staggering. After having sung with the choir for one year, his scores on the Stanford Achievement Test increased by a whole stanine (a significant jump). His interest in music and his abilities have broadened and taken flight.
He has been exposed to opportunities to travel and learn. He has acquired poise and assurance beyond his years — he thinks nothing of standing up and performing for 6,000 adults.
He has learned over 100 songs in at least nine languages. The experience has benefited him socially, emotionally and intellectually.
The longer I spend in education, the more I realize how much truly important learning takes place outside the classroom.
Without community support, precious resources like the Honolulu Boy Choir will cease to exist.
Jim Petersen
