• Paradise lost
• What will the future be like?
Paradise lost
About 20 years ago, I remember being charmed and amused at a story heading on the front page of the Garden Island: “Man cited for driving too slow.” In those days you could drive from Kapa’a to Princeville at night and see one or two cars. Today, we have gridlock all over the island.
The police blotter used to read, “a horse was reported in the road near Kapahi”. Today, it’s somebody was assaulted or a house was broken into.
20 years ago pakalolo was grown all over the island and smoked openly in the parks and elswhere. Nobody had heard of “ice,” much less of the violence and property crimes which result from the use of this horrible drug.
In those days, people stood in front of bulldozers to protest and try to stop development at what is now the Radisson. Some of those same people are now on the council and greenlight every development that comes along.
Until about 5 years ago, the area where I live was always quiet and peaceful. Now, it’s an almost daily cacophony of weed eaters. lawnmowers and other 2 cycle engine noise from yard crews manicuring the yards of rich people. Not to mention the security lights left on all night by fearful people who have ruined where they came from and are now ruining this island.
We, the people are to blame. The people must lead. Then, and only then, will the government follow.
Are you going to sit on your duff and watch? Are you all in denial or what?
Michael Wells
What will the future be like?
I am a junior at Waimea High School and its time for me to make decisions about going to college. The thing that always crosses my mind when I think about college is leaving my home and will it stay the same. If Kaua’i ever changes I hope it changes for the better not the worst.
There are times I reflect upon how Kaua’i will be when I leave for college. Kaua’i has always been a place where everyone would someday return home to start their family. But will it be safe enough? Everyone needs to stand together to put an end to Kaua’i’s ice age. Ice is taking over many people on Kaua’i no matter what age or gender. Will crimes increase? Will it be safe enough? What will the future of Kaua’i be like if we don’t put an end to Kaua’i’s Ice Age.
Tiara Kali
Waimea High School student
