• Use logic • Public should help support marathon • Proud of our contributions Use logic The May 25 TGI article on feral cats implied that trapping and sterilizing is not as effective as euthanasia. There is a logic flaw
• Use logic • Public
should help support marathon • Proud of our
contributions
Use logic
The May 25 TGI article on feral cats implied that trapping and sterilizing is not as effective as euthanasia. There is a logic flaw in that assumption.
Both control measures involve trapping, and both result in no further reproduction by the animal. In both cases, it is only those that evade trappers that continue to breed. So neither approach is more effective, but one is more humane.
The article also cited at length a theory that has not gained much credibility in the scientific community that cat feces may be responsible for infection of marine mammals with Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite whose only known land-based reservoir is the cat.
To his credit, the TGI reporter ended the article with reference to a far more credible theory: that T. gondii are being spread by a sea-based reservoir, the anchovy.
Scientists who posit this theory point out that the cat-feces idea cannot explain how the T. gondii oocysts pervade all oceans of the world, particularly since oocysts can’t travel against currents by themselves.
These researchers also point out that large numbers of oocysts must be ingested to cause infection, and that such concentrations don’t exist in the water. However the anchovy, a part of the monk sea’s food chain, does carry oocysts in such large concentrations.
Kathleen Bailey, Anahola
Public should help support marathon
I have been interested in the recent coverage of the funding for the Kaua‘i Marathon and would like to offer my perspective.
As an avid runner and former competitive athlete I have had the great privilege to compete in events internationally and within our state most recently finishing the Honolulu Marathon. I have enjoyed all of them but by far I was most impressed by my experience right here at home with the Kaua‘i Marathon.
Starting with picking up my race packet, to the butterflies on the big day, the thrill of the finish and the celebration afterwards the event is organized, professional, safe and could stand confidently next to any competition I have been in. I met people from a myriad of places all gathering on our island in the spirit of health, adventure and the incredible feeling of accomplishment an event like this inspires in the participant and spectators alike.
I know the council always takes the time to consider where to spend our finite resources, however, this is an event I implore all of us to support and participate in.
The ebbing effects of an event like this touch areas of our community we may not always consider, far beyond the tours, T-shirts and restaurants. It is imperative that the organizers have the funding and community support needed to keep our marathon the class act it is. With enough support our Kaua‘i Marathon can be one of the premier events people come to Hawai‘i for, a win for our economy, residents and visitors.
As true Kaua‘i event, there is a place for everyone to be part of the day. Drive-way cheerleaders, set up, take down, water stations, medical stations we need all of you. Grab your dog, kids, neighbors, whoever, and get moving. There are only 100 days left till the start.
P.s. It is glaringly apparent why Councilman Chang need not comment on his choice to recuse himself. As a visitor industry icon and member of our community who has sincerely dedicated himself to what is best for all of us, it was the right thing to do. Enough said.
Ricko Rask, Lihu‘e
Proud of our contributions
I am responding to Gov. Abercrombie’s comments noted in the May 19 article “Abercrombie vows to ‘roll over’ AARP.”
The AARP Information Center in Lihu‘e is a center for activity devoted to helping older residents live healthy and active lives.
Our volunteers teach the AARP Driver Safety Program helping older drivers stay safe behind the wheel. During tax-filing season, AARP Tax Aide volunteers help low and moderate income residents file their returns. The Information Center also provides space for the Agency on Elder Affairs to offer workshops to seniors with chronic health conditions including asthma, cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Members of the AARP Lihu‘e Chapter volunteer regularly to support Kaua‘i seniors and make our island a better place. Every other month we visit residents of the Wilcox Memorial Hospital Long-Term Care Nursing Home to play games and give away prizes. Twice a year we collect food for the Kauai Independent Food Bank as part of Drive to End Hunger. And in September each year we take part in AARP’s Create the Good Day of Service. This year we’ll be working in Lydgate Park.
We represent AARP on Kaua‘i, and we’re very proud of our contributions to our community.
Deana Shelby, President, Lihu‘e AARP Chapter #654
