12-15-2009, 01:07 PM
Many people travel to Amsterdam for just two things, which they can enjoy simultaneously. Those two things aren't the gorgeous Bruegel paintings and the delicious rijsttafel. There is no question that Puna would become a major center for tourism if people could enjoy Puna Butter while exploring a steamy puka or atop a volcanic pillar that makes you go "a'a". The problem is that Puna is not the master of its destiny. I am sure if it was, its destiny would be even nuttier, greener, more smoke-filled and better policed on the things that matter most. The problem is that Hawaii has outgrown its counties. Hawaii is one County, but it has regional interests that are somewhat at odds with one another. We don't get the taxes anyway. Let's secede and control our destiny. Free Puna! Yes on Smoky, Tourist-filled Dens of Iniquity! (Measure 9).