To the dogs, indeed
To the dogs, indeed
This is just a “thank you!” for bringing this problem into the public’s view (“Gone to the dogs,” Tribune-Herald, June 15).
I live at Waiakea Villas, and the quality of my life stinks because of low-life people abusing the system so they can have a pet. Also, I’m sick of seeing these animals in food stores such as KTA and Walmart.
As a new resident of Hilo, I have to say the problem is the type of people abusing the system. They’re always grubby looking and look like they want to give the world a kick because their lives are so terrible. It’s not the “pretty people” who drive new cars with the windows rolled up while they enjoy the AC. It’s the Section 8 disability-mentality crowd that’s doing this. I’m appalled there are so many of these people in Hilo, but what can I do? I’m sure you’re well aware of this (all you have to do is walk in front of your building and smell the urine).
As long as Hilo tolerates (those people) … you’re going to have problems.
Personally, I made a mistake coming here. I think I will retire and invest in Florida instead of East Hawaii. Good luck!
David Nowicki
Hilo
EBT scam
Not only questionable service dogs patrol the aisles of our local retailers (“Gone to the dogs,” Tribune-Herald, June 15).
While I was shopping at Safeway last week, a young man approached me in the store with an EBT card in hand and said he was expecting a check and that he needed cash. He offered to purchase my groceries for me with his EBT card, and then sell them back to me at a reduced cash price.
I refused his offer and walked away. I reported the incident. The cashier took the matter very seriously and called security. I searched around the store, but unfortunately the young man was not to be found.
Hardworking taxpayers are disturbed and troubled when EBT cardholders misuse well-intended benefits. The government provides these EBT safety nets for citizens in need, and they are not to be used as an ATM cash cow.
So, for shoppers, beware of this scam, and be ready to say no if someone offers to pay for your items with their EBT card. Then, report the person to store security. Safeway’s response was the correct one, and I appreciate their efforts to see possible EBT card abuses are investigated.
Now, if we could keep those unverified and suspect “service” dogs out of the aisles, we’d find shopping in Hilo a bit more pleasant.
Richard Dinges
Hilo