Question: A friend wants me to sign up with him for this HPD thing that teaches community leaders about crime prevention. You have to go through a background check first. Why? We’re not trying to become police officers.
Answer: You seem to be referring to the Citizens Police Academy, which is open to but not limited to community leaders. “Participants must pass criminal background checks because the classes are held in various police facilities,” said Michelle Yu, an HPD spokeswoman.
At weeknight or Saturday sessions held over the course of 11 weeks, participants learn about HPD policies, the criminal justice system and ways to reduce crime. Most sessions are held at Alapai headquarters (801 S. Beretania St.), but the group also meets at Ke Kula Makai, the HPD’s training facility in Waipahu, and might visit other sites.
Participants must be 18 or older. Applications are open to the general public. The deadline to apply for the next academy is Nov. 21, Yu said. You can download the application and other information at 808ne.ws/cpaapp.
More than 600 Oahu residents have participated since the first class was held in September 1994, according to HPD’s website. Alumni include people from many walks of life, including business executives, members of neighborhood boards, government employees and others.
Q: We have so much candy left from Halloween. Last year we got trick-or-treaters, but hardly any this year. Will the food bank take this? I think of them for canned goods, but I hate to waste all this candy (or eat it).
A: Yes, the Hawaii Foodbank will accept individually wrapped candy in its original, intact packaging, according to the staffer who answered our call.
The Foodbank lists food donation guidelines on its website. Here’s what it says about prepackaged, nonperishable food in boxes or bags, which would include candy:
>> Must be in original, intact packaging, with labels that show what the product is, ingredients, net weight and manufacturing information. Must be stored in a cool, dry place.
>> Not acceptable: Opened, punctured or damaged packaging resulting in the loss of sanitary barrier protection; soiled labels.
While you are correct that candy is not among the Foodbank’s most wanted items, your donation won’t go to waste as long as it is in a safe condition to consume. You can drop it off at the Foodbank’s warehouse (2611 Kilihau St.) or at community drop-off boxes (found at Ruby Tuesday and NAPA Auto Parts locations and the Hard Rock Cafe in Waikiki).
As for what the Foodbank needs the most throughout the year: canned protein such as tuna and chicken; canned meals, such as stew, spaghetti and chili; canned vegetables; canned fruit; and rice, according to the “Top 5” on its website.
Mahalo
On Oct. 20 our van abruptly stalled on Kamehameha Highway at night with six females on a dark highway. The electrical system failed, and the van’s passengers were unable to get out. We had senior citizens who were trapped. It was incredibly scary until policemen Steve, Stan and Chris from the Wahiawa police station came upon the scene. With their calm demeanor, helpfulness and humor, we immediately felt safe and protected. Mahalo to our three men in blue. — C.A.
Mahalo
In response to R.L.’s Mahalo of Aug. 20 (808ne.ws/820kline): You’re welcome and thank you for your kind words. There are a lot of these incidents that occur at the airport, and the security personnel are glad to hear whenever passengers eventually recover their missing items. Much aloha to people like you for your acknowledgments.
— Lane S.
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.
