With midterms, day off would help greatly

October 12 marks the 506th anniversary of the European "discovery" of North and South America.

Known as Discoverers' Day, in commemoration of their achievements, it can be either a time of celebration or a period of mourning, depending on one's point of view.

In Hawai`i, a land not part of the global community until 1778, and the only state to have ever had its own line of royalty, Discoverers' Day holds special significance.

Capt. James Cook introduced the world to Hawai`i -- at the cost of his own life. His sacrifice is eclipsed in the eyes of many by the devastation that resulted from the exchange.

In the past, this was observed as a state holiday, which gave students and faculty time off from classes to prepare for midterms. Within the past 10 years it has been replaced by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday.

Since Discoverer's Day is at least as, if not more significant, in Hawai`i than are Dr. King's accomplishments, we should again have the holiday observed officially.

Particularly in light of the stress surrounding the midterm season, this would be the perfect time.