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Kokua Line
Question: You often print requests like "where can I donate a used (fill-in-the-blank)?" As I'm doing spring cleaning and wondering if anyone wants mouse pads, magazines, etc., I sometimes wish I had a list of who accepts what. I know the Community Clearinghouse takes all kinds of stuff, but I don't know exactly what. Could you ask readers to write in what they want to get rid of, then print a list of places which take donations, and who would take what? That would be great. Charities,
tell us what
items you acceptQ: I have old videocassette recorders and bicycles I'd like to donate. Could you tell me who accepts these, where they are and how to contact them?
Q: I have a lot of old magazines. Does anyone want them?
Answer: Kokua Line frequently gets requests for the names of charities or organizations that may want certain items. The idea of printing a list of who wants what is a good one. But, readers, please don't tell Kokua Line what you want to get rid of. Instead, nonprofit/charitable groups are welcome to write or fax us about what they accept/could use. Send to Kokua Line, P.O. Box 3080, Honolulu 96802, or fax, 523-8509.
Sometime down the line, we'll print a list.
Q: Recently, there has been increased concern about conserving water. The Board of Water Supply issues warnings and suggests how to save water, but I have not heard anything about checking water regulators. I did not know what a regulator was until we had to replace the water heater and the plumber warned us that our water pressure was too high.
If the water pressure is too high, it can cause dripping, and damage pipes and toilet mechanisms, as well as water heaters. Many homes on Oahu were built after World War II, and I suspect many have broken regulators.
If excessive water pressure could be measured by water inspectors and they could notify homeowners, it may help conserve not only water, but prevent other damage.
A: The Board of Water Supply is not responsible for the maintenance or replacement of the pressure regulation valve, which is a plumbing device to reduce water pressure within a homeowner's property, said Clifford Jamile, agency manager/chief engineer.
The board does not have a regular program to help homeowners measure water pressure, or to notify them if it is excessive, he said.
However, if you feel that the pressure is too high, arrangements can be made to obtain water pressure readings, he said. Call 527-5207.
According to the city uniform plumbing code, a pressure regulation valve is required when water pressure on a property is in excess of 80 pounds per square inch, Jamile said.
Mahalo
To the lady who picked up my little deaf puppy on the street and the bicyclist who brought us together. They were truly angels. -- No name
Auwe
To the lady driving a white van with vanity license plates who tailed me all the way on Pahoa Avenue, going Koko Head. As soon as the road split into two lanes, she immediately overtook and cut right in front of me, speeding down the road. Ironically, we were both heading to Kahala Mall. Lady, if you don't care about the safety of the children in your van, that doesn't mean the rest of us don't. Is getting to your destination 30 seconds faster worth the lives of three innocent children? -- No name
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