Kokua Line
Kokua Line
Question: What's the safest way to dispose of mercury thermometers in Hawaii? A recent Consumer Reports publication recommended replacing mercury thermometers with one of the new digital models, to avoid mercury poisoning if the old thermometer breaks someday. They said "disposal regulations vary from state to state," and I'm not sure how to handle ours. Dispose of hazardous
waste at city facilityAnswer: "The proper way to dispose of mercury thermometers is at a hazardous-waste facility," said Suzanne Jones, the city's recycling coordinator.
The city coordinates quarterly drop-off days for household hazardous wastes at no charge. The next drop-off day is this coming Saturday, she said.
However, you need to schedule an appointment. Call the city's household hazardous hot line at 527-4774, or e-mail the staff at info@opala.org.
You can also call the hot line to find out how to dispose of paint, motor oil, automobile and other lead acid batteries, propane/helium gas and other products.
Q: I was wondering if you could pass along this concern to the proper state department. Over the past few months, I have noticed that a person has been camping/living on the beach at Kawaikui Beach Park (across Hawaii Loa Ridge). I am pretty sure this park does not allow overnight camping or squatters. I would appreciate that this matter is looked into ASAP as this person does not seem mentally stable and may need assistance in relocation to a proper facility.
A: There is no one camping on park property there, according to city Parks Director William Balfour.
"However, there is someone who has been camping on the beach fronting private property, outside of the city's jurisdiction," he said.
Balfour said police and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources have been notified.
Auwe
To the couple who sets such a bad example for their son by stopping and dropping off in a handicap stall in the city's municipal lot while there are vacant stalls all over the place. Even after the security guard told them to stop this practice, they continue to do so, even arguing with the guard about it. -- No name
Mahalo
To a nice man in a maroon Humvee, with license plate "Big Toy." I got stuck on the H-1 freeway, eastbound, about 4 p.m. April 11, in heavy traffic. He stopped behind us, put on his flashing lights and offered us the use of his phone. It took police about a half-hour to respond, but he stayed with us the whole time. I didn't get his name but wanted to say how much we appreciated his help and concern. -- Naomi Luke
Got a question or complaint?
Call 529-4773, fax 529-4750, or write to Kokua Line,
Honolulu Star-Bulletin, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., No. 7-210,
Honolulu 96813. As many as possible will be answered.
Email to kokualine@starbulletin.com