Waikiki street performers getting arrested

[Rob Tucker]

I was sorry to read this today. Police have been arresting Waikiki street performers. It bothers me in a couple ways.

First I appreciate the entrepreneur spirit and young people who can figure out a way to make a marginal living should have the freedom to do so. It is a modern form of the traveling minstrels of yore. I did some busking in London and Paris in the 60's so I do identify with them. A quote from the story:

One sidewalk artist bemoans what he sees as a misuse of police resources.

"It's like they've got nothing better to do," he says. "They've got prostitutes. They've got drug dealers. We're entertainers!"

Secondly kids find it all delightful and this makes Waikiki a family friendly place. What we want and need are families traveling here and enjoying themselves.

If there were pick pockets or harassment's or drug dealing it would be another matter. I have taken my family to Waikiki and the kids always enjoy the street performers. It is a good thing.

Here's the story:

http://www.starbulletin.com/news/hawaiin...kdown.html

Assume the best and ask questions.

Punaweb moderator