Sen Ruderman, where is the proof

[Richard Ha]

Several years ago, I suggested to Kumu Lehua Veincent, who was then Principal of Keaukaha Elementary, that if the Thirty Meter Telescope wanted to come to the Big Island, why don't we ask for a full ride scholarship to the best schools in the nation for a few of his kids. He thought about it for awhile, then he looked up and asked me; "what about the rest?" My ears got red. Of course he was right. Since then, I always ask myself that simple question. Last week when the county council heard a bill to give organic farmers a favorable property tax break that was better than all the conventional farmers, I submitted testimony in favor. The Hawaii Farmers and Ranchers United, the grass roots farmer and rancher group testified in favor. As farmers, we all know that organic farmers costs are very high. Hector Valenzuela suggests that organic farmers seek high end niche markets. But, not everyone can afford it. What about the rest? We need to support all farmers, so we can achieve food self sufficiency.