So far, so good with the dangerous surf

The surf was up — way up — these past few days on Hawaii’s northern-facing shores, and yet nobody died or was seriously hurt in the waves or currents. And for that we are grateful.

One reason might be that the waves were so obviously huge, and at their peak were accompanied by dangerously high winds and some rain, as well as unusually cool temperatures, that the beaches appeared as dangerous as they really were, thus reducing the chances of tourists and others being fatally ensnared.

Whatever the reason, kudos to our lifeguards and other safety personnel who have been working to ensure the public’s safety during these days of big waves.

Can’t we at least talk about HB 2506?

That state Rep. Jessica Wooley, chairwoman of the state House Agriculture committee, has stated from the outset of the legislative session that she won’t even hear a bill that would strengthen Hawaii’s Right to Farm Act dismays the bill’s proponents, of course. But more than farmers, ranchers and flower growers should take an interest in this bill, and its fate with our elected officials.

Anyone who values diverse, affordable, locally grown food in Hawaii should get up to speed on the challenges facing the agricultural industry these days. This measure deserves a fair hearing, in both chambers of the Legislature.