‘Memorable meals’
I saw Nov. 21 in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser that the Salvation Army is again preparing and serving meals to all who come, as they do each Thanksgiving, to the Honolulu Blaisdell Center.
I lived in Honolulu for 50 years and never attended. Then I moved to Hilo. I was single, with no family here, and trying to fit in when a lady named Dixie invited me to attend the Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner at Aunty Sally’s.
I was happy, amazed, grateful and, for the first time, felt part of the community of Hilo. The fact that people from all walks considered this a “must do” only contributed to the reality that all were welcomed.
We have not had this community bonding event for three years now, and though Salvation Army soldiers on with what they are able to do, it is the community fellowship that is lost.
Thank you, Salvation Army, for your memorable meals. I look forward to meeting again in 2023 at Aunty Sally’s for Thanksgiving. I have marked my calendar.
Pat Sexton
Hilo
A gem of a doctor
Recently, I have received a letter from Veterans Affairs stating our primary care provider from Hilo Community Based Outpatient Clinic is taking another position within the Pacific Island Health care system.
Been a patient of his for over 20 years. Very professional, good communicator, compassionate, listens to your health concerns and addresses them where you understand.
You will be missed by myself and other veterans you cared for. Good Luck, thank you and God bless you, Dr. Jesse Maag.
Crawford Gonsalves
Kurtistown
Save direct flights
On Jan. 7, 2023, United Airlines will stop their direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Hilo.
United made this announcement on Oct. 17.
However, many people take this flight to LAX because there are many connections available from LAX. I believe that over the past eight months, this flight has been at over 90% capacity. Therefore, travel demand should not be an issue for United.
For the past 15 months, I have been taking this flight at least once a month and find it extremely convenient for me. As a blind/visually impaired person, I hate to think of the difficulty of flying to Honolulu International Airport then seeking assistance to my interisland flight to Hilo.
I have been trying to think of ways we can stop United from discontinuing their direct flights to Hilo. I wrote a letter to Mayor Mitch Roth, and someone from his office contacted me, and they may be looking further into this issue.
If any Tribune-Herald readers have any ideas regarding how to stop United’s action, please do it immediately.
Carl Shiigi
Hilo
