SAVE CORE SERVICES, FEDERAL GRANT DOLLARS

Across-the-board sledgehammer layoffs and funding cuts will certainly have much greater, negative, long-lasting impacts than we can imagine. Many state jobs that are being cut have the responsibly of managing federal grants that keep our core services to the elderly, the homeless, the disabled and our children functioning. Millions of federal dollars under these grants, including stimulus money, are at risk of being lost.

For example, the Homeless Programs Branch of the Hawai'i Public Housing Authority recently received notice that five of their nine positions are being cut. This already small staff successfully obtains federal grants, provides guidance on homelessness issues, manages 11 state-owned shelters, provides contracts with 32 nonprofit agencies running shelters and outreach programs, and maintains a database required by HUD to qualify for funding.

Without the staff necessary to run all of the components of this department, more than $16 million in federal dollars that finance many more jobs in our nonprofit sector are in jeopardy.

Gov. Lingle and union representatives need to put the sledgehammer away, get out the scalpel and work together to prioritize budget cuts that maintain core services and prevent the loss of federal grant dollars.

Janet Kelly | Honolulu

CONGRESS MEMBERS

FAILURE TO HOLD TOWN HALLS AN INSULT TO ALL

I support recent letters that expressed criticism of our two U.S. senators and two U.S. representatives for their failure to hold public meetings on health care.

Regardless if you are a Democrat or Republican, or if you are pro or con, the public has a right to express its views. Change in our country has come from the people, and our elected officials should demonstrate the courage to listen to all points of view.

If Virginia Congressman Tom Perriello can hold 21 town hall meetings during the August recess, why can't our elected officials do the same, or maybe just one or two?

With their heads in the sand, they are telling us: Do not bother us with the facts, we have made up our minds. This is an insult to all of us.

Richard M. Smylie | Honolulu

HEALTH CARE

REAL 'DEATH PANEL' IS ENDING TREATMENTS

DHS spokesperson Toni Schwartz stated the burden of caring for Micronesians is falling on taxpayers who can "barely pay" for their own coverage ("State health plan raises alarm," Aug. 21). But if a dialysis patient stops receiving treatments, hospitalization is almost guaranteed. Increased hospital stays increase health care costs, which in turn raise health insurance premiums that we all end up having to pay. That does not help taxpayers pay their health insurance coverage.

The Republicans want to defeat universal health care by absurdly calling it a "death panel." The real death panel is ending payment for dialysis and chemotherapy treatments for Micronesians. If Lingle has come to this point to balance the budget, then it is time to tap the rainy-day fund and tax the wealthiest until this crisis is over. The solution does not lie in helping sick people to die sooner so we aren't burdened by their care any more.

Lyn Pyle, R.N. | Honolulu

BICYCLIST DEATH

ISLAND DRIVERS' HOSTILITY SHOCKING

I was extremely saddened to hear of another tragic death of a cyclist on O'ahu. However, it was not the least bit shocking. In fact, I'm surprised we don't have a cyclist dying daily. I have experienced multiple near-death experiences on O'ahu roads myself lately and am ready to sell my bike after 10 years of cycling.

My own state has proven to be the most hostile and unpleasant place I have ever cycled and it seems to be getting worse every day. In a place with perfect weather, spectacular scenery and hordes of sports enthusiasts, I'm continuously shocked and appalled by the hostile drivers I'm encountering on the roads.

Cycling is a wonderful sport, great for your health and great for the environment. Why are drivers so hostile? Why would you run down someone to shave 30 seconds off your commute? Isn't a life worth more than a few seconds? My deepest sympathy goes out to the family of this young man. It is a tragic and senseless death but not a surprise to anyone cycling O'ahu roads these days.

Anne Laporte | Honolulu

STATEHOOD

BURNING OF STAR WAS TASTELESS PROTESTING

I was completely disgusted by what I saw from some of the protesters of the statehood conference outside the Convention Center. I know my history and understand the hurt and anger felt by many Native Hawaiians regarding statehood, particularly the way in which Hawai'i was overthrown.

What I can't sympathize with is radical, disrespectful and tasteless protests like what was witnessed on this occasion. To cut the 50th star out of the American flag and burn it is simply unacceptable. What kind of reaction would someone get if he or she defaced the Hawaiian flag and burnt part of it?

To beat an Uncle Sam figure with sticks is mere brutality. If radical Hawaiian groups such as these want to be heard, listened to and given the least bit of respect, they should carry out their protests with a bit more tact and peacefulness.

Hawaiian culture and recognition is on the upswing. Use your minds and your education to guide you in your efforts. Be proud of your heritage and history; don't disgrace it and perpetuate shameful stereotypes.

Kevin Dias | Honolulu