Roosevelt Road needs upgrade

Here is an exigent circumstance on which Gov. Neil Abercrombie can use his emergency powers. Roosevelt Road in Kalaeloa is a main two-lane thoroughfare running from Ewa Beach to Kapolei.

This road is a danger to anyone driving on it, including the large tractor-trailer trucks going to and from Campbell Industrial Park. Motorists maneuver back and forth from the center of the road to the edge of the shoulder to avoid the hundreds of potholes and mounds of asphalt-repaired ruts.

There is a chance that it might be used by high-level officials during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, should H-1 be closed due to an accident. The governor should use his emergency powers and repave this road before the start of APEC.

Earl Arakaki
Ewa Beach

Nothing wrong with Kuhio road

As APEC looms large next month, I dare say that Kuhio Avenue can hold its own with Kalakaua Avenue as streets in Waikiki worth consideration for visitors and residents alike. Hy’s Steak House, Denny’s, International Marketplace, IHOP, Ohana hotels and bus and trolley service grace Kuhio Avenue and welcome everyone. Nearby Ala Wai Canal is good for walking, jogging, bike riding and outrigger canoe paddling. Please visit Kuhio Avenue soon, everyone, while in Waikiki.

Franklin Kam
Waikiki

Congress should live by our rules

I am 75 years old and have always played by our country’s rules. It makes me angry that Congress can come in and change the rules so that it benefits and the public can’t. Congress has proved to be untrustworthy. It needs to keep its hands off Social Security, and the rich need to pay their fair share. No loopholes for the rich while we are in hard times.

We need to recall Congress. Terms must be limited to two. No lifelong welfare for members of Congress. They need to pay for their own health care just like the rest of us.

Priscilla Naile
Kailua

Some things are up for debate

In response to a letter by Leslie Sponsel ("Evolution isn’t up for debate," Star-Advertiser, Letters, Oct. 14), I always find it fascinating when a person or organization proclaims to end a debate, especially on issues where the human experience has an infantile understanding at best. Climate change, abortion and the origins of our species are good examples of topics of which we should be wary to end debate. But seeing how this now seems the norm, allow me to end the debate on several island issues:

> The Train: It will be built despite any majority of dissent or lack of funding.

> Education: Our school system will improve, not through change or innovation, but through reliance on those who are responsible for the current system.

> Fashion: Adult men look ridiculous in skinny jeans.

Kris Schwengel
Hawaii Kai

Choices abound for mayor’s race

As elected officials, we can assure Richard Borreca that his wish for a crowded race for mayor is not a hope but reality ("Where’s the election fever, or a mayoral challenger?" Star-Advertiser, On Politics, Oct. 2).

Recent census data show that Filipinos have become a tremendous population base to be courted in the 2012 elections. This is evidenced by the many elected officials who attempt to woo Filipinos at various events. Even the current mayor frequently shows up to Filipino functions sporting his barong. The Filipino community has some possible contenders who might enter the race for mayor: Robert Bunda, the former state Senate president; Rey Graulty, the former Circuit Court judge, insurance commissioner, and state representative and senator; and former Gov. Ben Cayetano, a long shot unless provoked.

These potential candidates have already proven that they have significant and organized support, not just from Filipinos, but from other ethnic groups as well.

Felipe "Jun" Abinsay
Former state representative

Ben C. Cabreros
Former state representative

Romy M. Cachola
Honolulu city councilman