A fiery start to the dry season

It is hot, hot, hot, and we’re not talking weather only. Five afternoon brushfires on Monday raised temperatures — and danger levels — well above normal, reminding us all to take precautions heading into the dry season.

In Leeward Oahu, three of the fires were determined to be intentionally set: two near Honokai Hale; and one in Makaha. The other two brushfires were on the North Shore and near Makakilo.

Luckily, no one was injured, not least of all, the busy firefighters called upon to protect the public. Do your part in prevention by removing combustibles around homes and cutting back brush at least 30 feet from structures if possible.

Free meals for kids who need them

It’s one of those bad-news, good-news artifacts of life in Hawaii, where lots of people try to live in paradise without having enough to cover the price of admission.

The state Department of Education reports that a record 71 isle public schools are offering free breakfast and lunch for children this summer.

It’s distressing to know that so many children are living at the wrong end of the income disparity scale so that they need help for a decent meal — but a relief to know this safety net exists.