Put traffic flow ahead of parking

Traffic is a major issue and a solution is difficult to find. We must work with what we have. For example, parking is permitted on Wilder Avenue after 5:30 p.m., which is right in the middle of rush hour. Cars have to merge into one lane to accommodate one car parked along Punahou School.

If parking were not permitted until 6:30, the flow of traffic would increase dramatically in many places such as Kinau Street, Wilder, Beretania and many other streets. Parking is not a priority over traffic flow.

If we all put our heads together we could think of many more simple solutions that would have a tremendous effect in the overall flow of traffic.

Let our Guardsmen fly home for less

Our Guardsmen have to fork out $1,000 each for airline tickets to come home to Hawaii for Christmas from where they are training in Texas. Why can't the Air Force or the Air National Guard bring these men home for Christmas? The Air Force has the C-5A cargomaster that could bring these men home for Christmas without any problem.

What is the problem with our state? Do we not have any aloha for our men going overseas to fight in the president's war? How about the airlines charging these men $1,000 each to come home for Christmas? Where is the spirit of Christmas? Who is in charge of these airlines? Is it Father Scrooge?

Hopefully this problem can be worked out to everyone's satisfaction.

Chang represents best of Hawaii

As I watched University of Hawaii Warrior Tim Chang eclipse Ty Detmer's NCAA passing record last Saturday, I could not help but reflect on some of the all-time great Hawaii athletes who competed for our university, state or country. Tommy Kono, Duke Kahanamoku, Keala O'Sullivan, Derek Tatsuno, Brian Clay, Yuval Katz, Allen Allen and the many Rainbow volleyball wahine. I apologize as I know I have forgotten many other worthy athletes.

Hawaii has the opportunity to honor a locally born and raised athlete whose bloodlines reflect the diversity that we celebrate as unique to our state. An athlete who, with the national spotlight shining only on him, did not thump his chest, dance, or point to the number on his chest, but instead ran over to his father, presented him with the ball and told him he loved him. An athlete who chose to compete for our university and brought unparalleled success and attention to our shores. An athlete who was groomed by a coach who shares his commitment and love for Hawaii.

It will be a long time before we see a son or daughter of Hawaii match the accomplishments of Tim Chang in any sport. The least we can all do to show our appreciation for Tim and the Warriors is by selling out the last game against Michigan State and attend the Senior Walk after the game. Tim deserves no less from Hawaii. Maybe the stadium can cooperate by opening the parking lot at 11 a.m. to start the early celebration. Let's make it a special day that Tim and Hawaii will never forget.

Quarterback deserves admiration, respect

Congratulations to University of Hawaii Warriors quarterback Tim Chang on his great accomplishment! And to those of you who are full of criticism, please stop it already. I am not a sports fan, but I do know when a person deserves others' respect and admiration, and Chang is definitely one who deserves just that. Most of you haven't even come close to succeeding at anything as he has done. Be proud. Hey, this guy is from Hawaii!

As for Chang, his family and friends -- enjoy the moment!

Troops need mail, gifts from home

The elections are over and during that time we all agreed that we support our troops serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and other countries. These men and women need to hear from us; many of these troops are serving in harsh conditions where they cannot even get enough basic items such as toothpaste, soap and shampoo. Some of them don't even get any mail from anyone. If you really want to show your pride and appreciation in the job they are doing for us, send cards, letters and packages to them.

There are many organizations that you can connect up with to help. The Stars and Stripes Web site (www.stripes.com) has many links with information. Another good site is AnySoldier.us. Send what you can, even if it is a letter or card. Many of these soldiers, Marines, airmen and sailors just want to know that people care. I care!