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Kokua Line
June Watanabe
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TV convertors are not available yet
Question: We have a "rabbit ears" antenna on our TV. We do not have cable. They're advertising that we need to get a converter box to receive digital signals because we no longer will be receiving analog signals after February 2009. I've been to several stores on Oahu, and no one has the boxes. I'm worried because they said we can order coupons to get the boxes, but the coupons are good for only 90 days. What if I can't find a store within 90 days? Can you print the names of the stores selling the digital boxes or tell us how we can buy one locally?
Answer: You can relax for now -- the converter boxes are not yet available.
Although you can begin requesting up to two coupons, worth $40 each, to purchase the converter boxes now, it's best to wait until more information becomes available.
That's because the coupons, good for only 90 days from the date of request, will be available through March 31, 2009.
As we explained previously ("Kokua Line," March 17, 2007), all analog broadcasting will stop in the United States on Feb. 17, 2009, by congressional mandate. People with analog TV can continue to receive broadcasts for free, but only if they buy a converter box to convert the digital broadcasts into analog.
The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Telecommunications and Information Administration is administering the coupon subsidy program. However, information regarding where the boxes can be purchased is still not available.
On the NTIA's Web site -- dtv2009.gov -- click on "Locate a Converter Box Retailer Near You" and it says "retailer information will be posted, as it becomes available."
Only retailers certified by the NTIA will be able to accept the coupons. The boxes are expected to cost between $50 and $70.
You can get the coupons at dtv2009.gov or by calling (888) 388-2009. You can also call that 24-hour hot line with further questions.
Auwe
After the merge from Moanalua Freeway to the H-1 freeway, Ewa-bound, the lane markers are barely visible in some areas. Especially on rainy nights, I find myself straddling two lanes because I can't make out the markers.
In some areas there are no square reflectors, and in others the rounds ones are worn down. I called the state Department of Transportation several months ago, but nothing has been done. -- Concerned Motorist
Those missing lane markers will be replaced tomorrow night through early Saturday morning, with variable lane closures scheduled through the night, said DOT spokesman Scott Ishikawa.
DOT crews have had to routinely replace those white "buttons" because of the constant lane-changing where the H-1, H-3 and Moanalua freeways merge, Ewa-bound, he said.
Work is scheduled for Friday because the ZipperLane needs to open up early on weeknights for the next day of morning traffic.
There wouldn't be enough time to replace the lane markers on any other night, because ample time is needed for the adhesive on the markers to stick to the pavement, Ishikawa said.
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.
See also: Useful phone numbers