Save our Civil War history
What are people thinking? The Civil War is our history — all of us both North and South. As a Northerner, I’m thankful the right side won. I’m also from a proud military family and realize that Southerners were Americans too. The 258,000 Confederate soldiers who died gave their lives fighting for “their” America. History may have proved their cause to be wrong, but you can’t ignore their bravery and valor. I’m appalled at the destruction of statues and memorials to American vets regardless of the side they fought for.
Slavery is despicable — no one will debate that — but it wasn’t just our country that participated in it. Those who blame the United States should brush up on their history. Instead of criticizing our country they should remember that so many paid the ultimate price to abolish it. You can’t change history, however, you can learn from it.
I’m glad our president is standing strong about renaming our military bases. I hope he remains so. I also thank him for his unwavering support of our troops.
Carole Zero
Kailua-Kona
Why did gas prices not fall?
Has anybody noticed that although the bottom fell out of the oil market at least four weeks ago, the gas prices have remained steady in Hawaii? Whenever world oil prices go up, so do Hawaii gas prices. World oil prices actually went negative for a day or so and are now still only about $30 a barrel. Why are Hawaii gas prices the same as when oil was $75 a barrel?
John Sucke
Waimea
Hawaii can do much better
By executive order, Gov. David Ige laid off the workforce of our island in masses. Let that sink in. We are not facing a health crisis in Hawaii. We are suffering from a government policy promulgated economic recession. The lasting economic and social consequences of the lockdown/quarantine policy will outlast not only his term in office, but quite possibly his natural life.
Ige’s policies have decimated small businesses and wiped out the savings of the Hawaii’s middle-class families. People from all walks of life are being forced into debt to make it through end of the month.
Ige has virtually bankrupted all social safety net programs, like unemployment insurance. Our state has recklessly borrowed to support his policies. His legacy will be one of debt/poverty to spread over our future generations.
The social impact of Ige’s orders are equally severe. I am particularly concerned with the mental and emotional health of men. Men need to be allowed to work to retain their self-worth and emotional health. Men are taught to be the provider, protector, the leaders and strength of their homes. But when men are not allowed to provide for their family, are forced to go into debt, and are feeling locked up, stress and anxiety build up. Substance abuse, anger, depression and violence are just a few of its manifestations. Just talk to regular people and you will sense these feelings festering and building up fast. No joke.
Lastly, Ige’s approach to governing tramples over our civil liberties. His actions are not only unconstitutional, but immoral. America has a government of people, by the people and for the people. Our government has no power unless explicitly given to it by the people.
Common sense tells you Hawaii can do much better than Ige.
Pablo Penaloza
Kailua-Kona
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