For decades, Koele Lodge was our “home away from home.” From 1992-2014 we celebrated every Thanksgiving, most New Year’s, anniversaries, birthdays, and dozens of special occasions there. Often, we would simply escape to Lanai to sit quietly on a terrace savoring the unique beauty that the upcountry lodge provided.

So many cherished memories: teaching our children and grandchildren about horses; feeding the koi; lawn bowling; putt-putt golf; hula lessons; and always so much laughter, music and dancing happening in the gorgeous Great Hall. The excellent staff always welcomed everyone like family.

Larry Ellison, with his outrageous $2,700 per person/per night, has taken away a truly magical experience for us and the hundreds of returning guests we met there year after year (“The price of luxury,” Star-Advertiser, Oct. 30).

Aloha, sweet Lanai. We will forever miss you.

Tim and Devon Guard

Waialae Nui Ridge

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