Kokua Line
Kokua Line
Question: We need help. Sand Island Regional Park, where we visit frequently, is deteriorating. Vandalism, illegal parking on the lawn and litter everywhere can be seen. Worst of all, loose dogs are running around -- those that owners bring in or stray dogs threatening joggers. In fact, we got bitten by these dogs before. No one takes any action despite reporting to the park supervisor. There are signs saying no dogs allowed and no alcohol, yet, empty beer cans can be seen all over. We were told to report to DOCARE (the state Division of Conservation and Resource Enforcement), which is supposed to be the enforcement agency. But nothing happens. Where can we get help? Sand Island park
going to the dogsAnswer: With further cutbacks expected, maintenance problems won't get any better. But the stray dog problem should be resolved by now.
State parks Administrator Ralston Nagata said he was surprised to hear about the dogs, since the problem with them running loose supposedly had been resolved months ago.
Apparently, the dogs were coming into the park from the industrial area through a hole in the fence, he said. The caretaker closed the opening, and everyone thought that was the end of it.
"But if there is a complaint, there still is a problem and I've got to look into it," he said. "Our caretakers will check it out and, if necessary, get the assistance of the Humane Society."
As for other problems, "We do have vandalism in all our parks," Nagata said. "We hope that can be alleviated or minimized. But it does happen."
Regarding people driving on the grass, "People have been known to move our pilings," especially during three-day holiday weekends. "But if our enforcement people (who patrol the parks) do catch them, they usually cite them," Nagata said.
The maintenance staff at Sand Island once numbered about a dozen. Now it's down to six, Nagata said, and "we're looking at further cuts to our budget."
Q: Who did the wonderful artwork for the American Dental Association banners surrounding the Convention Center?
A: A local artist came up with the drummer figure, while graphic artist Carly Stafford, with the advertising firm Ogilvy & Mather Hawaii, was responsible for "the total layout of the banner," said account executive John Medlock.
He said the firm preferred not to disclose the name of the woman artist.
The banner was designed at the request of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau. Medlock said the intent was "to keep a Hawaiian or Hawaii sense of place in the design."
Looking for a white cat
Libbie Kelii, 97, would dearly like to get back a white cat with a crooked tail that recently was adopted from the Hawaiian Humane Society. She had turned in several cats for adoption, but realized she misses that one cat and is heartbroken. If you have that cat and can understand her situation, call Kokua Line at 525-8686 and we'll put you in touch with Libbie.The Humane Society's policy is that once someone gives up an animal for adoption, it does not give out information on who adopts that animal, said spokeswoman Eve Holt.
Mahalo
To the lady who was kind enough to come to our house to return my son's wallet, which he lost at a UH football game. She did not leave her name, but we wanted to let her know we're really appreciative. -- The Hos
Need help with problems? Call Kokua Line at 525-8686,
fax 525-6711, or write to P.O. Box 3080, Honolulu 96802.
Email to kokualine@starbulletin.com