Our electricity rates are not acceptable

The July 18 article "Electricity costs frustrating but unlikely to change soon" gave the impression that I believe the rates Hawai'i consumers pay for electricity are "acceptable." While the present rates and fuel-cost adjustment formulas discussed in the article were authorized by the Hawai'i Public Utilities Commission, I do not believe that all is well. Indeed, to create the best situation for consumers, change must occur.

The isolation of our state certainly presents challenges for the provision of reliable electric service at reasonable rates. The article mentioned several things that may help, such as using more efficient generation, expanding the use of firm renewable energy sources and rethinking how rates are designed.

I agree that these and other possible options present significant opportunities to help save consumers money. Making the most of these opportunities will require change, both in the present structure of things and in the mindset of the utilities and consumers.

The Division of Consumer Advocacy was created to represent and protect the interests of utility consumers. I believe this entails not only fighting for reliable service at reasonable rates today, but also to help bring about positive change that will ensure the same for tomorrow.

Taxpayers should be told what's happening

On the firing of University of Hawai'i President Evan Dobelle: Both sides seem to have their points. The taxpayers have a right to know what exactly was going on during his shortened term. We're just reading wrongdoings in bits and pieces now, never getting the whole story.

A settlement out of court now would bury all facts surrounding this case. I say, let's have a trial with every detail brought out on both sides, regardless of cost. The truth needs to be known — in this case it would be "priceless."

It takes a village to resolve homelessness

Mahalo to Timothy A. Cook, who stepped up to recognize and solicit support for the special people who provide special care to homeless individuals and families on the streets and parks of our community (Letters, July 20).

It is projected that more than 6,000 people live at Hawai'i's public parks, beaches and streets. Serving the many needs of the homeless requires communitywide support.

As one of many organizations that care for the homeless, we feel it is clear that we must all work together providing our time, talent and resources to resolve this community issue and provide all with appropriate housing, food, healthcare and education.

Who are these people? Homeless individuals that we serve come from all backgrounds and range in age from infant to over 80 years old. Some hold jobs and are well-educated. Many are homeless due to traumatic life events such as divorce, job loss, sudden illness, accidents and family disputes — issues that may impact any one of us at any time.

How can you help? Respect homeless people as individuals and respond with kindness. Make a personal donation to one or more of the many organizations that serve the homeless. Urge faith-based and community organizations you are part of to adopt services for the homeless as their community service focus. Volunteer your time and talent.

Let's extend our spirit of aloha to support our homeless men, women and children and achieve an environment of self-sufficiency, dignity and respect for all.

Poll doesn't speak for all Hawaiians

Mr. Clyde Namu'o's July 17 letter citing a "recent statewide survey" as his basis for "overwhelming support" for federal recognition (i.e., the Akaka bill) is simply meant to trick the public's mind.

No matter how many "surveys" are carried out, there will never be a bona fide majority count, especially regarding the issue of federal recognition for Hawaiians. Only by asking every Hawaiian that this bill would affect could a real majority count possibly be taken — a process never conducted by Sens. Inouye or Akaka, or the governor of Hawai'i or OHA.

If OHA continues to claim the "majority" of us Hawaiians support the Akaka bill, it should at least hold public hearings throughout the Islands and abroad to ask Hawaiians what they really want. Don't insinuate that a "survey" you initiated speaks for the people. To do so is hewa, to continue this hewa is pilau.

Armed forces appreciate warmth Hawai'i gives us

I write to thank the people of Hawai'i for the tremendous outpouring of aloha you've extended to members of our armed forces.

We who serve here are well aware of our good fortune. And the communities in which we live serve up constant reminders of this blessing, especially by the special and thoughtful ways you include us in your 'ohana.

Though Hawai'i's warmth and affection surround us in our daily lives, recent deployments have taken many military folks far from her shores. Yet many citizens of this state have made certain that departing troops are kept well-stocked on goodwill while they are away.

Letters and care packages from schools and civic groups, patriotic farewells, hearty welcome-home ceremonies and even quiet visits to hospital rooms have provided continual boosts to morale.

These deployments have left many of our military families separated from their beloved sponsors. And yet the absences that have been created are wholly tempered by the ready friendship and generosity of our wonderful neighbors.

From the bounty of donations in support of "Operation 'Ohana" to Hawai'i's unparalleled annual Military Appreciation Month, our military members never forget ... they are not forgotten. The spirit of kinship is unmistakable and most welcome.

I often remark — and I know I speak for many others — that it is a privilege and honor to serve in our armed forces. How can it be otherwise when that service is only a reflection of what makes our country the greatest in the world — it is the fine citizenry of which she is comprised — citizens like you, the good people of Hawai'i.

Our thanks and appreciation.