Health freedom is not heartless

Paul Krugman’s column titled, "In America, ‘free to choose’ has become ‘free to die’" (Star-Advertiser, Sept. 18) is more ultra-left demagoguery aimed at making fiscal conservatives look callous and heartless.

His position is that "social justice" demands nothing less than the ultimate capabilities of the medical profession be applied to each and every individual on U.S. soil whenever the need arises.

Modern medicine is advanced to the point that it can replace parts, help healing and extend a semblance of life almost indefinitely; but at an unsustainable cost.

What to do? Either legislate restrictions on personal choices in the name of "public safety" while capping the amount of medical care allowed to anyone, in the name of equality, or allow us to make the personal lifestyle choices we desire, while encouraging personal responsibility for handling our own health care and end-of-life issues.

Which looks more callous and heartless to you?

Jim Wolery
Kaneohe

Westsiders need rail alternative

It’s time to stop rehashing the decisions regarding the train to Leeward Oahu, and break ground.

Expert panels have been convened to decide the type of rail, and a public referendum had a majority in favor of the train.

With daily commutes between Honolulu and Kapolei, I have observed increased congestion moving farther west each year since 1996. Today, the gridlock begins at Kapolei, whereas previously it was at the H1-H2 merge and then moved up to Waikele. It is obvious that traffic congestion and gridlock will become worse as the Leeward population increases.

An alternative to cars on the road is necessary. Some commuters will continue to sit bumper to bumper, some will stay in buses that are equally stalled. The rail will provide an alternative with predictable, scheduled stops.

To Cliff Slater and "Stop Rail Now": Get out of my way. I have to get to work.

Bruce Chen
Waialae

Hee, Sierra Club right about land

I want to express my great appreciation and admiration for state Sen. Clayton Hee and the Sierra Club for their willingness to intervene in the horrendous Ho‘opili mess.

Both Hee and the Sierra Club are standing up for what I believe is the majority of our people who believe in food sustainability over developer profits.

It would be pure madness to take away hundreds of acres of our best agricultural land — already designated by the state as agricultural — and virtually give them away to a private contractor whose only purpose is to make money.

If there ever was a reason for the people of Hawaii nei to raise their voices in the strongest chorus of disapproval, this would be it.

Joel Fischer
Waialae

Hawaii ag owes much to Okimoto

Dean Okimoto is a true leader in Hawaii’s agricultural industry and beyond. He has brought Hawaii’s agricultural industry to a higher level of attention and respectability. His vision on keeping our local farmers competitive with the global economy is something that everyone can appreciate.

He has a proven track record that has helped many farmers throughout Hawaii. He has assisted with the farmers markets, led the way for the passage of the Important Agricultural Lands act, and been a strong voice in obtaining millions of dollars in agricultural research and lowering the property tax rate for farmers.

Okimoto’s passion for helping Hawaii’s agriculture is appreciated by many. He is respected not only for being outspoken on some very controversial issues, but also for taking a balanced approach in promoting Hawaii’s agricultural industry.

Being a leader in any organization or industry means you have to make some difficult decisions and take hard positions.

Sen. Donovan Dela Cruz
District 22 (Kaena, Wahiawa, Pupukea)