Kokua Line
Kokua Line
Wilson Tunnels’ radio reception
not expected back till 2004Question: There is no AM radio reception in the Wilson Tunnel, Honolulu-bound. I've called the state Department of Transportation at least twice over the past year, but it still hasn't been fixed. I don't mind missing music for the few seconds it takes to get through the tunnel, but it is frustrating to miss important portions of news reports. Can you find out when the AM antenna will be working again?
Answer: Not anytime soon.
It turns out that the AM-FM broadcast systems in both the Pali and Wilson tunnels are out, and they're not expected to be replaced until fiscal year 2004-05.
The problem with both systems is that they are more than 20 years old, said Martin Okabe of the Oahu District Office for the DOT's Highways Division.
Because of cost and priorities, he said, the earliest they have been earmarked for replacement in the budget is two years from now.
"These types of improvements have to be programmed just like everything else related to highways on Oahu," Okabe said.
It will cost an estimated $200,000 each (ballpark figure) to replace the systems.
Q: I live in Kaneohe. On Kamehameha Highway, just past the Hawaii Pacific University campus, there is a bus stop. About 50 yards away, going toward Kaneohe, there is a traffic advisory sign that is obscured by overgrown tree branches. What can we do to get the tree trimmed so that the sign will be visible?
A: Since that part of Kamehameha Highway is under state jurisdiction, call the state Department of Transportation at 831-6703.
Mahalo
To Kevin, a retired U.S. Navy chief and tour coordinator for the USS Missouri, who was courteous and accommodating to two local schoolteachers on our first exciting visit to the Missouri. We were honored to be invited to a special change of command ceremony and reception aboard the Missouri on Wednesday, July 24.With passes in hand, we boarded a trolley that took us to the ship for the ceremony, then took the trolley back to the USS Arizona area. To our dismay, we discovered that the reception was back at the Missouri. We explained our dilemma to a young local security guard, who curtly replied, "This trolley is not a free service to the public for recreation and leisure. I'm sorry, you're not allowed on."
We would have gladly paid our way, but assumed the trolley ride was a courtesy to guests for the change of command ceremony. Two other guests from San Francisco tried for an hour to find their way back to the Missouri and gave up in frustration.
After hearing our problem, Kevin was very helpful and, through his kindness, we were able to get a personal ride to the reception. Kevin, you are truly an asset to the Missouri staff. -- D. Sato
Mahalo
To a gentleman who turned in two music CDs I had just purchased at Sam's Club and inadvertently left in my shopping cart. I was able to pick them up later. -- Malcolm
Useful phone numbers
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.
E-mail to kokualine@starbulletin.com