Your Views for March 18

Mahalo, readers

I had the most heartwarming week! David Bock knew what he was talking about! In response to my inquiry (asking readers to help locate a childhood friend), the editor of the Hawaii Tribune-Herald emailed: “This is a tight-knit community, so my guess is you’ll get some responses.”

He knows his community well! I was truly amazed to get more than 25 phone calls and seven emails from people across the Big Island. Even a person from Kokomo, Ind., sent me an email. They all tried to help me locate my childhood friend, Albert Elizares, and the rest of his family.

It resulted in a bittersweet experience for me. I learned that Albert served in the Korean War and returned home safely. But, he passed away in 2005 and is buried in a Kalopa Catholic cemetery. I plan to visit his gravesite in the near future.

I also learned that Albert’s younger brother, Manual, is the only surviving sibling. However, he is ill and is being cared for by his loving wife.

The warm response by the Big Island community really touched my heart. I owe each and every one of you my deepest mahalo! Although I won’t be able to see Albert and “talk stories” with him about our “barefoot days,” I cannot thank you enough for letting me know more fully and lovingly about the Elizares family.

Mahalo and aloha!

Edgar A. Hamasu

Honolulu

It will hurt seniors

I wanted to voice my 2 cents about the gas tax and raising the car fees.

Our governor does not think of the poor seniors whose income is so low. Why do this now?

Bring in a lottery and Powerball. You can use the money for the roads and other needs. Everyone is having a hard time.

Think, you government people. You make more money than us seniors. Think of ways to make money. If it’s a lottery, do it. Bring slot machines.

Don’t think negative thoughts; think positive. You government people have brains. Use them!

JJ Holt

Paauilo