BRUCE ASATO / BASATO@STARADVERTISER.COM
The new transit smart card called “HOLO” is designed for use on TheBus, and in the future, the city’s rail system.
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It does look like the city has made an apt name choice for its fledgling transit “smart” card, Holo — there are other words for “go.”
Whereas the dictionary does indicate “holo” having a more free-flowing sensibility, “hele” is more about going with some purpose. “Hele mai” means “come here,” and depending on who’s talking, you’d better go right away.
Perhaps the city wanted to convey that this card is easier than fumbling for dollars and quarters; perhaps, also, that “Hele” was taken by the gas station. But don’t be too freewheeling: This card is smart enough to charge you what’s owed.
Obama deserves more than shave-ice tribute
While other states are honoring former President Barack Obama with namesake schools and roadways, those sorts of proposals have stalled here. A push to rename Sandy’s as “Barack Obama Beach” fizzled. As did suggestions for school names and state holidays, among other ideas. Currently, the best-known local tribute may be a namesake shave ice served at a Kailua shop.
Surely, Hawaii should ramp up some effort to salute its most famous native son — our 44th president. The latest suggestion — pitched by a state Senate committee on Tuesday — calls for a statue. If backed by lawmakers, an art advisory committee would be assembled to assess design and select a site.
