Question: Is there a way to find out well in advance about bike races, fun runs and such that will disrupt parking and traffic in specific Oahu neighborhoods? They usually put up those electronic traffic signs on the main surrounding roads a little bit in advance but too late to avoid the area altogether. I’ve had a few embarrassing situations where I invited people over to our place without realizing that traffic and parking were going to be terrible that day.
Answer: Yes. The city Department of Transportation Services maintains a webpage that lists the major parades and street activities scheduled on Oahu for the whole year. The list includes fun runs, bicycle races and other street events that might affect traffic.
You can find the page at 808ne.ws/streetusage. It is frequently updated as permit requests are submitted and approved, and also reflects when previously requested events end up being canceled.
The page is organized by month and lists not only the date, time and location of each event, but also the number of participants expected and whether any streets or lanes of traffic will be closed to accommodate them. There’s also contact information for the event organizers.
Whether the event is a quick morning fun run or an all-day marathon, a single high school’s homecoming parade or a huge block party, you’re likely to find it listed far enough in advance to avoid future conflicts with your family gatherings.
Q: Perhaps I missed it, but could you please let me know when and where the next two recycling events will be happening? Thank you!
A: There are no “Going Green” recycling events in August, so the closest dates are Sept. 3 at Puuhale Elementary School and Sept. 17 at McKinley High School, said Rene Mansho, who coordinates the community cleanup events. Both those dates are Saturdays; the events run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’ll publish more details as the dates near.
Please note that the “Going Green” event originally scheduled for next month at the Ala Wai Boat Harbor has been pushed back to Oct. 15. The original date, which still appears on some websites and social media, conflicts with the World Conservation Congress, which will disrupt traffic and public access to parts of Waikiki and Ala Moana during its Sept. 1-10 run.
The “Going Green” community events offer a convenient option for recycling a variety of items, as volunteers greet donors and help unload their cars. The types of items accepted vary by event. For more information, call Mansho at 291-6151 or email rene mansho@hawaii.rr.com.
Auwe
Auwe! What inconsiderate behavior by parents at a Kailua Thai restaurant on Thursday night! Loud electronic entertainment that you handed to your toddler during dinner ruined my 42nd-anniversary dinner with my husband! All we could hear was your child’s hyper-excited, noisy video or game playing beside our table! You ruined our evening while enjoying your own. Shame on you! — Distressed Diner
Auwe
I walk daily in Waipio and cross the street using the crosswalks at Waipio Uka and Mohalu streets and cross again at Moaniani and Ukee streets fronting the Kaiser clinic. Auwe to the drivers who don’t stop when I’m already in the middle of the crosswalk! I’ve stood in the middle of the street with as many as five vehicles not stopping, even a blue-and-white police vehicle. Little wonder why we have so many pedestrian accidents. Maybe more oversight by police and public awareness are needed. — Perturbed Pedestrian
Mahalo
After shopping at Kapolei Foodland, I was reversing out from the parking stall when I realized that my truck wouldn’t move forward when I pressed the gas pedal. This kind gentleman came over and asked if I needed help. I explained what was wrong and he found the problem. The emergency brake wasn’t completely released! I thanked him but forgot to ask his name. I thank God for this wonderful, kind person who is willing to help others. — Thank you, Evangeline
Write to Kokua Line at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
