Navy mulling range of energy concepts

Your article and subsequent editorial discussing a potential large solar project at Pearl Harbor may have implied that the Navy is in the process of accepting proposals or is in discussions with Sempra Energy for such a project ("Harboring energy," Star-Advertiser, Sept. 18; "Solar energy plan promising," Star- Advertiser, Our View, Sept. 21).

To clarify the facts, the Navy has not requested or solicited any large scale photovoltaic proposal as described in the articles, and is not working with Sempra on a project.

If we do solicit such proposals, we will accept them from all qualified companies.

Currently, we are studying the potential feasibility of using underutilized land in and around Pearl Harbor in partnerships with industry for a wide range of alternative energy technology concepts.

We remain open to new energy ideas and initiatives, and in providing fair and competitive playing fields for all companies wishing to do business with the Navy.

Capt. Peter S. Lynch
Vice Commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific

Abercrombie right to act on munitions

Kudos to Gov. Neil Abercrombie for putting the safety of Hawaii residents and visitors foremost by signing an emergency proclamation allowing the Army Corps of Engineers to enter state lands and remove and dispose of unexploded munitions without delay.

In just the past several weeks, two unexploded hand grenades and a live mortar have been discovered and safely disposed of at Hapuna Beach State Park on the Island of Hawaii. This beach park is one of the crown jewels of our islands and heavily used by kamaaina and tourists alike.

While various environmental laws were suspended to accomplish this, the Army Corps must still follow federal environmental laws that also include consideration of environmental and cultural resources.

As a frequent visitor to Hapuna Beach State Park, I am thankful that this work is in progress and that everyone will have a safer beach experience when visiting our lovely island.

Claudia Kane
Kailua-Kona

Incarcerated youth need our support

We’ve all made mistakes. I was privileged to join with Rep. John Mizuno on his site visit to the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility. It’s refreshing to see the positive changes at HYCF under its new administration. Our young people are now being treated with dignity, respect and trust. I was astounded to see the artwork these young people created.

Still we can help them help our kids. Many of these kids have never been to the movies. Funding for lots of things have been cut, and the workers pay from their own pockets for incentives and rewards for good and positive behavior.

These kids are just that, kids. I hope those in authority listen to the suggestions of these new administrators because it is far cheaper to get these teenagers the help they need long before it’s too late.

Pauline Arellano
Mililani

A good parent disciplines children

I applaud the Intermediate Court of Appeals for setting aside the misdemeanor conviction of Richard C. Dowling Jr. ("Parental discipline defense upheld in child abuse case," Star-Advertiser, Sept. 19).

I know there’s a thin line between discipline and abuse, but a good spanking on the okole of an unruly child will teach right from wrong, good from bad, acceptable and unacceptable. I got my share of lickins’ as a kid and I am thankful. It taught me respect of my elders, teachers and the law. When kids lack discipline, they become obnoxious, disruptive spoiled brats who become disrespectful, self-centered adults who feel they are entitled to everything without earning it.

Abuse is when you lash out in your anger and frustration and the child did nothing wrong. Discipline is when a child exhibits an unacceptable behavior that requires your intervention. Parents should have the right to discipline their child without fear of arrest.

Robert K. Soberano
Moiliili

Waikiki beggars discourage tourists

Having recently returned from our yearly Hawaiian vacation, I felt compelled to write regarding the change we have noticed in the past year.

In anticipation of our trip, my husband had been looking forward to his daily walks around the Fort DeRussy area, making a couple of rounds near our hotel and making the big circle around the field, parking garage and Army Museum.

This year, however, we had to curb our walking plans as the homeless made it an unpleasant event. We were constantly stopped by homeless people asking for not just change, but fives and tens. This occurred so much that we no longer wanted to take our walks.

I understand that homelessness is a problem for many communities. However, if Hawaii, especially the Waikiki area, depends on tourism, then I hope something can be done to curb the great number of homeless people begging for money.

Linda Cheetham
San Francisco

Homeless policies lapse into confusion

It is sad to witness the confusion between our leaders, charitable organizations and the police in addressing the needs of the homeless and the concerns of businesses and private law-abiding taxpayers.

Driving eastward on South King Street, you see tents, red cones and trash piled up, making it dangerous to park your car in places from Isenberg Street to Coolidge Street. Is that progress?

Peter Heinze
Hawaii Loa Ridge