David Shapiro wrote a nice commentary on Puerto Rico’s dire situation (“Hawaii could face winds of scorn that hit Puerto Rico,” Star-Advertiser, Volcanic Ash, Oct. 14).

He said the slow progress might be due to several reasons, from the brown skin color of many Puerto Ricans to their Spanish-language heritage and lack of electoral votes. These might be correct. Many other possibilities exist.

A few nights ago on CNN, a commentator said that the U.S. should treat Puerto Rico’s situation as if we are at war.

Puerto Rico is just about 1,150 miles from Florida. It’s relatively small — about 100 miles across and about 40 miles wide. Logistics has been a major problem. Why? I can’t understand why a dirt runway is not constructed at both ends of the island by military engineers. C-130 Hercules could land and take off there, bringing in much-needed supplies.

Let’s get the problem fixed. Then, finger-pointing and politics can have their day.

Lawrence M.O. Chun

Kailua

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Vicious dogs cause psychological harm

I was driving down Mott Smith Drive by the sharp turn where Kalawahine Street intersects. I saw a lady pointing across the street. As I made the turn, I saw a traumatized young student about to be attacked by three loose and growling dogs that were approaching him. I stopped my car next to him as one of the dogs was going to attack. I opened my door and yelled for him to get in. He was about to when the city bus stopped behind me and the boy ran to get in.

There is no doubt this boy will be scarred by this ordeal. The sight of his face and his fear will stay with me.

Whoever the owners are probably will never realize the psychological damage these dogs surely created. I implore all dog owners never to let this happen with your dogs. Always watch your dogs and make sure there is no chance they can get loose. Even if they don’t bite, they can create a lasting psychological fear.

Chuck Reindollar

Makiki

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Homeless shouldn’t receive handouts

I have written to many people, including our governor, mayor, legislators and City Council members, about the homeless situation in our state.

My recommendation is to first weed out and send back to the mainland all those who were sent here from other states due to the beautiful weather and the ease in receiving welfare benefits.

Second, bring back the draft, and draft all those who are young and healthy into the armed forces.

I ran into a young man in Mili- lani the other day when I went to McDonald’s. He was holding a sign that said, “Feed me and looking for a job.” I pointed out a sign on the door: The restaurant was looking for workers and, I believe, the pay was $10.95 per hour. I wish I made that when I was in the Army.

The money wasted in cleaning up, only to have the homeless move right back in, could be used to house the elderly and treat those who need help.

Max Calica

Mililani

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State highways need major repairs

I saw a great bumper sticker recently: “I’m not drunk, just swerving to miss potholes.” So true.

While the city has been busy repaving for a couple of years, where has the state Department of Transportation been? I’m sure everyone knows state highways they drive that are badly in need of repair.

I live in Kaneohe and here’s my take: Kamehameha Highway, where it crosses underneath the H-3 overpass, is a battle zone. Kamehameha Highway from King Intermediate School to the Hygienic Store is a mess. I won’t drive on it.

Last but not least — the Pali Highway. I remember when Gov. Neil Abercrombie had various and random stretches paved, supposedly as temporary fixes. Now, five years later, those various stretches are the only good parts of the highway; the stretches in between are terrible.

If Gov. David Ige cares at all about what people think of him, it’s time to work on the roads that really need it.

William Thompson

Kaneohe

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Vote out politicians who won’t cut taxes

President Donald Trump would like to do something nice for you. He wants to cut your taxes (Congress must help). But now, alarm bells are ringing in the brains of senators and representatives.

Cut taxes? They don’t like that. They want to keep spending wildly and getting rewarded by special-interest groups. If the federal government takes in less money in taxes, Congress has less power to spend money foolishly. You are going to hear congressmen yelling about that.

They may say, “Tax reform must be revenue neutral.” Translation: Keep the money coming, and give no break to the taxpayer.

I say this: Cut taxes to boost business and help the taxpayers. And Congress must consider how to cut spending. If Congress cuts spending, forget “revenue neutral.” It won’t be needed.

Politicians hate to disappoint special-interest groups. So we — the voters — must use our votes as a new special-interest group. Cut our taxes or be voted out.

Mark Terry

Wahiawa

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Farrington Highway risky for pedestrians

“Whew! That was close.”

I have found myself saying that on too many occasions as I travel the 12 miles and 26 traffic lights and pedestrian crosswalks from Nanakuli to Makaha.

This high-density living area necessitates that many people cross the Farrington Highway, more aptly, DIEway. Speeding is rampant. Designated crosswalk lanes are barely visible during daylight hours; at night, they’re practically indistinguishable.

Crosswalk flags help, but serve no purpose if not elevated and waved by the pedestrian. Recent notifications indicate that Farrington Highway is designated for repaving. Here is my wishlist: high-reflective visibility striping at each crosswalk, and pedestrian-activated, solar-charged yellow blinking warning lights just like the ones installed at busy crosswalks in Ko Olina.

Majestic is the natural beauty of Hawaii, surpassed only by its true No. 1 asset — its people. Put people’s safety first.

Norman Bradley

Waianae