Good Samaritans
I’m usually more comfortable drawing editorial cartoons rather than writing letters to the editor, but I wanted to share a story that happened to me recently.
While carrying several packages in Honokaa, I set down a black tote bag outside a local antique store. It had my recent sketchbook and several important papers.
I didn’t realize it wasn’t in the car until I got home to Hawi. Unbeknownst to me, a woman named Cynthia O. (I don’t have permission to use her last name) walked by and saw the bag. The shop was closed, and worried that someone might steal the bag, Cynthia O. took it home for safekeeping. The next morning she took it to the shop, and the shopkeeper contacted me.
I had just come to grips with the fact the bag was gone when Cynthia turned it in. She didn’t want any reward; just saying she hoped someone would do the same for her if she were in need.
It reminded me that so many folks in towns along the Hamakua Coast quietly exemplify the Hawaiian trait of living pono.
I remember the local mechanic who stopped to help me change a tire early one drizzly morning, or the elderly friends who helped a younger neighbor whose home was swamped by Hurricane Lane.
Cynthia O., that nameless mechanic and the elderly neighbors lending a helping hand don’t always make headlines (or editorial cartoons), but they are what makes living in Hawaii such a meaningful and rewarding experience.
Again, mahalo, Cynthia O.
Gary Hoff
Hawi
Bait and switch
Well, folks, it didn’t take long for the County Council to take the funds generated by the general excise tax increase and not use it for the promised infrastructure improvement.
They are already spending the money on other than what they promised they would do. The reason for the switch is not important as they lied to us again about taxes.
I wouldn’t be surprised if they went for another increase in the GET and tell us it will be used for infrastructure.
The old bait and switch game is swinging in full motion.
Who are you voting for?
Bob Dukat
Pahoa