Kona and "the Man" (Homeland Security)

Part ofthe reason to stop in Kona wasto check out of the country. A fairly important thing these days.

Blaze shoreside support (who?) called the local office of Homeland Security five days before arrival in Kona. To ask where it would be most convient to have them board and check the boat out. We wanted to make sure we didn't go to the "wrong place." We were very specific on the voice mail.

Three days later a gruff official (didn't get his name...) returned my call. As I was explaining the situation breifly he said "I don't mean to cut you off....." and then rudely did so. He sounded to be in a tremendous hurry for a man who's department sees just one international flight day.

We followed his direction to call from the http://www.gentryskonamarina.com/.

So as the boat prepared to depart on Monday...the requisite call was placed. Left message on voicemail. Yep...no return call. No return call Tuesday. On Wednesday, the adventurers contact their other new friend, Brian, and grabbed a ride out to the airport.

Wednesday afternoon, 3:30 pm and the Dept of Homeland Security is gone. "They leave at three" was the answer upon inquiry. Back to the boat. Another day wasted.

Thursday, Brian saved the day again. He drove Devon and Dustin out to the airport again.
Surprise!.....a real person was there. He checked 'em out. Then handed them clearance papers
while asking "what time are you guys leaving?". "Three o'clock sir".

The correct response.

What started as a phone call on Monday......ended with signed papers on Thursday.

Oh well...........that gentleman is still at his job today. The crew of Blaze is off on an adventure.
Who really won that round?