Community unites against vandalism

Terrible events can be a bonding experience. That was the good that came from a bad incident, the toppling of gravestones at Kawaiaha‘o Church cemetery.

The vandalism that occurred July 3 stunned everyone, not only those who are church parishioners. Kudos to the Hawaii Masons Union, Local 1, and all volunteers who pitched in with the work of repairing and restoring the headstones. One more good thing that supporters hope could emerge: the identity of the vandals, and a suitable penalty.

A race to save lives on high seas

It was sort of stunning to learn that in its long and storied 106-year history, the Transpacific Yacht Race until Monday never had a boat sink crossing from Long Beach, Calif., to Honolulu. That’s a 2,225 nautical-mile race held every two years; a record 90 boats entered this time. That’s now minus two contenders: the Santa Cruz 70 OEX, which had rudder problems then sank early Monday; and the 68 Pyewacket, which came to its aid and rescued the downed yacht’s nine crewmen.

All are safe and sound, fortunately. As Roy Pat Disney — Pyewacket’s skipper, Waikiki Yacht Club member and Walt Disney’s grandnephew — said in a Tuesday interview from his L.A.-area home: “Rule No. 1 in the Racing Rules of Sailing is save lives. It’s not even a question.”