Letters to the Editor: January 26, 2021

Shopping for treasures in Ocean View

During a recent weekend visit with a friend in Ocean View, she offered to take me on a tour of the farmers market/flea market scene. Needless to say, I was amazed at the variety, and the quaint atmosphere at the two outdoor markets we visited on that recent Sunday.

There were plenty of fruits and seasonal vegetables on display, but it was the humble atmosphere of the markets that struck me the most. The vendors were open, friendly, and welcome to ‘‘Talk story’ to anyone who stopped by — whether you were intent on buying or not. In fact, selling their merchandise often seemed less important than their backstory. The pace was very mellow, with folks seemingly there hanging out for the day.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning how one artisan designed their craft (wood carvings from locally- sourced Koa wood). Others shared how they made their own banana bread from the fruit on their land. I understand the market in Ocean View on the Makai side of the highway also has occasional live music? All in all, it was a thoroughly enjoyable event, and a great escape from the higher intensity pace of other farmers markets on Hawaii Island. I encourage those adventurous souls to venture down to Ocean View on a weekend and enjoy their outdoor markets.

Toni Reynolds

Kailua-Kona

Will they feel the same years from now?

Krisztana Samu quoted Henry Kissenger’s book the Final Days: “The elderly are just useless eaters.” I wonder if Henry still feels the same now that he is 97 years old? She then goes on about money spent on that segment of the population for such things as medical, food, social security and such. I wonder if she will still feel the same when she reaches a ripe “old” age. Will she want the plug pulled then? Just sayin’.

Vicky Halquist

Kailua-Kona

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