Monthly Archives: November 2017

Pesticides & Birth Defects on Kauai- Who do you believe?

Should pregnant women who live and/or work around high levels of pesticide use, particularly on Kauai’s west side, be concerned about birth defects? A Honolulu law firm has recently been running radio advertisements on Kauai and Maui, stating: “If you … Continue reading

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Ripples- and the Power of the Pen

A few days ago, I received an email from a friend whom I rarely see, but who occasionally shares with me her thoughts and ideas.  The email, (a portion of which I share at the end of this column) contains … Continue reading

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Am thinking of all that I am thankful for.

And this morning, my friend Mary is at the top of that list.   From an email I received a few days ago:   “Well, Gary, please know you always have my (usually unseen) support.   You WILL win eventually … Continue reading

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On the ethics of working for the devil

In my career as a former state Senate leader, County Council member, and community advocate, I have shaken the hands of countless adversaries after a skirmish – political, legislative, and even legal. It’s not always an easy interaction though it … Continue reading

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We lost, we won, we will appeal – (Summary of yesterdays results in court) – Ke Kauhulu o Mana versus the State Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) and Syngenta 

For those wondering what happened in court yesterday below are my thoughts and observations. Judge Randal Valenciano seemed very familiar with the section of law being argued, HRS343 – the Hawaii Environmental Policy Act (HEPA).  He also seemed to have … Continue reading

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State BLNR grants Syngenta free pass on environmental review

The Hawaii State Board of Land and Natural Resources (BLNR) is proposing to exempt Syngenta operations on public conservation and coastal lands from environmental review – WITHOUT EVEN KNOWING WHAT THOSE ACTIVITIES ARE. Syngenta is an agrochemical company conducting research … Continue reading

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The fundamental question is, “Whose interests do you serve?”

*Excerpts from a recent email conversation with a freshman legislator on why he/she should support increased pesticide regulation.  This person has been requesting additional data/research on this topic that might resolve the opposing arguments presented by industry (which I have … Continue reading

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