THE LEFT LANE
Run for the roses

Sadie Akamine-Wolfe of The Picket Fence in Kailua (111 Hekili St.), will give away 5,000 free roses starting at 7 a.m. Sept. 4 as part of the annual Good Neighbors Day.

Akamine-Wolfe originated the idea in Hawai'i seven years ago. Her practice is to give people a dozen free blooms each, with one stipulation: "Keep one, give 11 away in the spirit of aloha."

Akamine-Wolfe got the idea from a Jacksonville florist, and it has blossomed throughout O'ahu and on some Neighbor Islands.

"Roses signify love, and they're plentiful this time of year," said Akamine-Wolfe. "I'd love to see 5,000 smiles on people's faces."