Your Views for July 13

A blast, indeed

Car enthusiasts and spectators met at Hilo’s Bayfront for the annual Fourth of July Hilo Bay Blast.

The free, fun-filled event brought the community together to check out the eye candy, listen to great live entertainment and enjoy some good local grinds. There were a lot of photo opportunities, and Facebook has been buzzing with the many posts from spectators!

Hawaii Classic Cruizers sends out a big mahalo to Mayor Billy Kenoi, Roxcie Waltjen, employees of the Hawaii Police Department, Public Works, Parks and Recreation and everyone else who made this day possible.

It filled my heart seeing the excitement of the little ones as they checked out the cool rides.

Listening to the stories from the kupuna made me realize the automobile industry leaves a historical mark on all of us — no matter where we are from or what our background might be.

I am grateful for the participation we had on the Fourth of July. It certainly was a blast!

Martha Rodillas

President, Hawaii Classic Cruizers Inc.

Support fishermen

I love fresh fish. Being born and raised in Hilo, it is only natural that I do. Ahi is a staple in our town. There is nothing like fresh poke at parties or sashimi on New Year’s Day.

It came as a surprise to me when I heard about the proposed expansion of Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument.

We need to realize that this might have a huge effect on not just our state’s island culture, but it most likely will affect our economy as well.

As a state that relies heavily on tourism, why further cripple our economic stability by weakening the fishing industry, one of Hawaii’s only sustainable industries?

We should review all of the negative outcomes before the expansion is to move forward. Let’s stand in support of our fishermen who provide us with our fresh fish.

Galen Mizuguchi

Hilo