Full face mask allowed
snorkeler back in water
I just read the West Hawaii Today article on the restrictions/requirements being imposed on adventure-seekers coming to the islands by tour companies regarding full-face snorkel gear and felt the need to make a point.
I was an avid scuba/snorkel hound for years using traditional equipment. We came to the islands two or three times a year just for the water. Most of it gravitated around the Big Island where we now live permanently. Going on three years ago, I was suddenly diagnosed with cancer in my throat. The only treatment was surgery. The surgery was a complete success and I am cancer-free today. But part of that operation was the removal of a significant amount of my soft palate. There is no way for me to cut the air flow off to my nasal passage when breathing through my mouth. Traditional scuba/snorkel equipment was no longer an option for me. No more scuba or snorkeling for me.
Then two years ago, while on vacation in Kona, I spied a full-face rig. I immediately purchased it to give it a try. I will not mention the manufacturer. I took it to our favorite snorkeling spot and magically, I was back in the water. Not only could I breathe but my vision range was greatly enhanced and many of the issues generated from the use of traditional gear were no longer issues. The entire experience was much better than ever before.
The point I am trying to make is that I have never had an issue of any type with my full-face mask. I have a medical need to use one if I want to snorkel. I feel that all the tour companies should be made aware of the fact that there are those like me who may not be able to use traditional gear and require a full-face mask.
Thank you for this opportunity to voice my opinion.
Richard L. Palmer, AOC USN/Ret.
Ocean View
How’s campaign promise coming?
Wasn’t Josh Green going to take care of the homeless problem? Isn’t that what he campaigned for? I guess that he was too busy going up to Maunakea for a photo and autograph signing session.
Now Darrell Oates, a supposed homeless person that supposedly assaulted someone, is released out onto the streets on his own recognizance. So much for taking care of the homeless problem.
Plus, now the police may be kept busy trying to take care of more homeless fights. We probably won’t hear any more homeless campaign promises from Dr. Josh Green until the next election comes up.
Elizabeth Purse
Waimea
Majestic Milolii worth the visit
The Hawaiian musical legend “Brother” Iz had one of his last concerts in majestic Milolii, which was spectacular. Milolii is the last standing Hawaiian fishing village left in Hawaii and if you haven’t witnessed this special place, you haven’t seen the true Hawaii.
The mana of Milolii is truly awesome and is my favorite place to visit in Hawaii. Every time I visit the area, the holy spirit truly engulfs me.
My admiration for Milolii people truly humbles myself for these people do not rely on the electrical grid and also rely on catchment water. How much more Hawaiian can these beautiful Hawaiian people and area get?
Truly, we need more areas like Milolii in the Hawaiian island chain, for the indigenous culture is definitely a vanishing treasure. That has to be turned around, and like the great “Brother” Iz told me, “support things Hawaiian.”
Dean Nagasako
Honokaa
