Kauai groups: "We're not against the Superferry, we're against the process"

Kauai groups concerned about the Hawaii Superferry's service to their island took their message to the State Capitol this morning.

A 12-year-old student, teachers, and representatives from People for the Protection of Kauai and Malama Kauai spoke about the Aug. 27 protests in Nawiliwili Harbor and the reasons behind their concern, including why they felt the ferry should not proceed without an environmental assessment.

The speakers attracted a crowd in front the Capitol's reflecting pool on the makai side of the building.

"I'm not used to standing in front of the media," said Dennis Chun, a kumu at Kauai Community College in Lihue, adding that he felt it neccessary for people like himself, who might normally be hesitant about speaking out in public, to voice their thoughts about the Superferry issue.

Mehana Blaich Vaughan, a teacher and student from Kauai, assured those gathered that some residents' vocal opposition to the ferry didn't mean that Kauai doesn't welcome visitors. Instead, she said, residents want to make sure the island's special environment is preserved.