Let’s not push the panic button, people.

Just because the sale of electric vehicles is falling below targets, it seems state energy officials are doing just that. They’re considering rebates as part of an incentive plan to lure new EV buyers.

First of all, shouldn’t we consider that lower gas prices may have depressed the market a bit?

Providing a taxpayer-funded subsidy to the often well-heeled purchasers of these cars should not be the response to market fluctuations. If a billion-aire wants to fund such a bennie, he or she can be our guest.

Besides, isn’t the free parking EV drivers get enough of a prize?

Hikers should look out for hitchhikers

The threatening fungal infestation of ohia lehua groves on Hawaii island proves, yet again, the fragility of native forests.

Those who love the emblematic flower for that island — not the least of whom are hula practitioners who need lots of the flowers and buds (liko) for the annual Merrie Monarch competition — have to hope that the state Plant Industry Division gets the disease under control.

Assuming it does, let’s all hope that anyone entering the forests takes more care not to bring in contaminants.

Hikers don’t think much about the condition of their boots and other gear, but it looks as if they should.

That’s especially so if we want to see any lei liko lehua at the Merrie Monarch next year.