We Support TMT - Please sign the petition

[TomK]

Another article some might find interesting:

http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/crux/2...U8TB_CfLeg

"Science and Religion Clash Over Telescope Construction on Sacred Summit"

Not sure I agree with the author's premise that this is a clash between science and religion, but probably worth a read nonetheless.

[rainyjim]

So science is ludicrous and yet more people don't understand that this 1.4 billion is for a telescope.

I'm trying to think of an analogy - maybe someone will be able to make a better one than I.

It's like saying there's millions in HDOT's accounts so why can't we use that money for building schools and hospitals. Well HDOE and HDOH have their own accounts.

The 1.4 billion is for astronomy not for "x" other uses.

I guess for those with no concept of money management, I'd imagine quite a few of which are probably on EBT, a concept like this is probably inconceivable.

[TomK]

Tomas Belsky has a history of writing outrageously illogical letters to the HTH. I suspect few take him seriously and most treat his essays as comic relief.

[ironyak]

Originally posted by HereOnThePrimalEdge
I apologize if this was posted earlier, but I thought it was a good article about how the TMT debate has spilled over into the operations of the other observatories.
http://darkerview.com/wordpress/?p=15567

Thanks for the link. Good article and video about the day to day reality of land stewardship on Mauna Kea, along with an acknowledgement of current gaps in planning and resourcing as well as in understanding between the participants.

The UH management board for Mauna Kea are all volunteer positions, which has to limit the time available and progress possible. Hopefully UH can recognize the need to address many of the standing issues and provide or petition for better resourcing to move forward.

For all the lofty language on both sides (sacred 'aina vs origins of the universe) the process of protecting the resources is a very human one with all the associated flaws and foibles but also sincere intentions and hard work.

[ironyak]

Still waiting opihikao - where's the official bumper-sticker slogan for your protest movement? Hasn't the PR firm gotten back to you with a rough draft that fits today's reading habits? Perhaps a customizable version works best - "Mauna Kea is ALL about ____" (science, culture, sovereignty, stewardship, chemtrails, etc) As a bonus gift, throw in a free left-over "A'ole Ants" sticker from UH that everyone can agree on

[VancouverIslander]

I wonder if protestors will realize that there are opportunities to get involved as volunteers at Mauna Kea to help preserve the aina and at the same time monitor how well it's being done in a productive manner.

Just call me Mike

[leilanidude]

Happy to have now read the blog post.
The anti-TMT folks have no idea how much work has been done to protect the mountain.

http://darkerview.com/wordpress/?p=15567

"...Many of the questions asked by telescope opponents betrayed their ignorance of the significant effort that goes into caring for the mountain every day.

It is not just about telescopes. It is all aspects of land management… Native and endemic species monitoring, habitat restoration, invasive species monitoring and removal, visitor and tourism issues. All of these are covered by the management plan, all are managed by people who care about Mauna Kea. Many are professionals who have had their efforts called into question repeatedly in recent weeks..."

[PaulW]

Front-page article in the Hawaii Tribune Herald today, business leaders warning that nobody will want to invest in anything in Hawaii if a gaggle of protestors can overrule 7 years of planning and permits.

[PaulW]

quote:

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Originally posted by TomK

I think one or two people are being a little unfair to Opihikao. Unless I missed something, she currently supports the TMT project as long as they carry out their promises and one or two other conditions are met. To me that's a perfectly reasonable position to take and doesn't mean she has to speak for the protesters.

I really value her insights as it's clear she has family involved in both sides of the debate and she has and is providing PW with a unique, respectful and intelligent perspective.

---

I completely agree, thank you Opihikao. It can't be easy supporting the telescope (with conditions!) in your position.

[kalakoa]

business leaders warning that nobody will want to invest in anything in Hawaii if a gaggle of protestors can overrule 7 years of planning and permits.

Hawaii is already well-known for its hostility to business; the TMT debacle will seal its fate.

I can hardly wait to see how expensive this place will be without any jobs.