A grand tradition ADVERTISING A grand tradition Hawaii’s grand tradition of sign-waving with shaka gestures during elections was one of the first experiences that made me love Hawaii when I was a newcomer. A friend who worked in a state
A grand tradition
Hawaii’s grand tradition of sign-waving with shaka gestures during elections was one of the first experiences that made me love Hawaii when I was a newcomer.
A friend who worked in a state senator’s office invited me to participate before I was even over jet lag, and I was hooked instantly. Standing on a curb in Honolulu waving and smiling, learning how to make the shaka sign the right way, was tremendous fun. And then they even brought us bento lunches — my first bento, too.
Many years later, I still think sign-waving is part of the aloha spirit. It may be a custom unique to Hawaii — at least the shaka is, definitely. When drivers honk or passengers wave back, it is very heartwarming.
Mahalo to all those who do respond that way. It means a lot as wavers’ arms begin to tire.
Nan Sumner-Mack
Hilo
Perplexed
I found it interesting that you applauded the “safe place” at the University of Hawaii at Hilo on the front page in your Wednesday, Oct. 12, publication only to find an article in that same paper on page A8 warning of the negative consequences when “college students, increasingly delicate, now require speech codes, safe places and trigger warnings.”
Forty-five thousand dollars annually for a safe place, and where does Hawaii rank nationally in teachers pay?
J. Fitzgerald
Keaau
Clear the site
With the closing of Bayfront Motors due to the recent heavy rains that damaged some of the vehicles that were up for sale, it may be a blessing, not only because Bayfront Motors is moving to it’s new location, but for the general public as well.
Between the Suisan Fish Market and up to the Hilo Farmers Market exists beautiful scenery, such as huge green fields, the Kamehameha statue area, tons of trees, iconic canoe clubs, and unobstructed views looking out into the vast Hilo Bay.
However, a commercial business such as car dealership is just not conducive to the beauty of this environment.
Perhaps this building site could be cleared for more green space as part of the master plan for the beautification of the Hilo Bayfront projects.
Rick LaMontagne
Hilo
