Some O’Reilly comments better left ignored

The acerbic host of Fox News’ "The O’Reilly Factor," who professes to love Hawaii, said that it’s "pretty much a free-fire zone for pedophiles" because it won’t pass "Jessica’s Law." Or so Bill O’Reilly told state Sen. Sam Slom on his show Thursday.

Slom, who should know better, played along. He noted that some of Hawaii’s "diverse cultures" — which he declined to identify — have no problem with "having sexual relations with young children."

You’d think Slom would have avoided discussing ethnicity with a pundit who famously complained that Hawaii seemed filled with uncharacteristically liberal Asians. "They’re usually more industrious and hardworking," O’Reilly said. U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa went on O’Reilly’s show to hold him to account for those Asian comments. Not Slom. He told O’Reilly: "I watch your program and I appreciate everything you’ve done."

Less stress, for drivers and students

If the commute to and from work Monday was a relative breeze, take heart in knowing that less-congested rush hours will be the case all week as Hawaii’s public schools enjoy spring break.

For motorists, that’ll mean a leisurely or extra cup of coffee in the morning, or just less overall stress rushing out the door. For kids, that means less homework nightly or being allowed to stay up later to watch a movie. For teachers, it brings a well-deserved break from the daily classroom grind, a chance to recharge before the fourth quarter.

For most public schools, the break will extend through next Tuesday.