Praise for lawmakers
who passed e-cigs bills
Mahalo for your recent coverage of disposable e-cigarettes in the 91直播 Tribune-Herald. The article highlighted a growing concern across our island — one that has been affecting our ʻaina, our kai and our keiki for years.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to our 91直播 Island lawmakers for their leadership in addressing this issue. The passage of House Bill 1573 and its advancement to the governor’s desk reflects meaningful progress.
Equally important is the strong support behind Senate Bill 2175, a measure that has been championed by youth advocates who are directly impacted by the proliferation of disposable vaping products.
Special appreciation goes to Sen. Tim Richards for introducing SB 2175, to Sen. Joy San Buenaventura for her leadership in moving the bill forward, and to Rep. Jeanne Kapela for introducing a companion measure in the House. Their efforts demonstrate a commitment to public health and to listening to the voices of our young people. Mahalo piha to each of you as SB 2175 also makes its way to the governor for signing of the bill.
It is encouraging to see 91直播 Island legislators working collaboratively across chambers to advance this important legislation. At a time when unity can be hard to come by, these efforts stand out as a model of what is possible when the focus remains on community well-being.
Mahalo again to all involved for your dedication, leadership and commitment of aloha for our people of 91直播.
Shani “Kai” Carvalho
Pa‘auilo
Successful swim meet,
but starting blocks needed
Mahalo to the 91直播 County for fixing the pump at Kawamoto Swim Stadium in time for Big Island Swimming’s long-course meet on Saturday, April 26.
When the Warrior Aquatic Club and Waikoloa Swim Clubs arrived at 7 a.m. to set up, there was electricity in the air. Lanes were set up for the swimmers to compete in events racing 50 meters down the pool (in over 20 events), and four Big Island teams attended the meet.
For some of the younger swimmers, it was the first time competing in a long-course meet.
Athletes and their families appreciated the capacity and shade of the stadium. The only thing missing was pool starting blocks for the races.
Hilo’s youth swimmers who train at Kawamoto are at a competitive disadvantage because they don’t train with starting blocks, and it makes events at Kawamoto less competitive since swimmers can’t generate the same velocity and distance upon entry.
The previous blocks are broken and are a costly repair, but the stadium is a wonderful place to host events.
We hope the county can keep advocating for this much-needed repair to help this and future generations of swimmers in Hilo!
Michele Lefebvre
Hilo
