Q. If I want to recycle an old computer, can I still? What about a monitor? It seems a shame to throw them away.

A. Yes, there are programs.

Hawai'i Computers for Kids has been helping recycle computers and get them to Hawai'i schools — kindergarten through high school — and nonprofit organizations that need them, for more than 15 years.

Ken Goldstein is the founder and state director of the program. His Rotary club, the Rotary Club of Metropolitan Honolulu, and its 130 members support and sponsor the program as their signature project.

Goldstein's program accepts Pentium III/4 and Celeron computers, as well as Macintosh G3s & faster. "We can also take working 17-inch monitors with each of those computers; along with printers, scanners and other devices connecting via USB or FireWire; and software and supplies," he said.

Anyone who has donations that match the organization's needs can call 521-2259 or e-mail Goldstein with a list at cfk@catii.com. Include contact information and an address where donations can be picked up. He will contact schools and nonprofit agencies and have one get in touch to arrange for a mutually convenient pickup.

"I will then be glad to e-mail them with a tax receipt after donations have been claimed," Goldstein said.

"I have approximately 1,600 volunteers around the state who keep an eye out for donations, assist with transportation and logistics, and otherwise help me keep things rolling. Our longevity is likely due to the fact that we've never accepted one penny for donations or services."

Hawaii Computers for Kids directly supports Hawai'i K-12 schools and nonprofit organizations statewide at no cost, he said.

"My biggest problem over the past 15 years is finding schools and nonprofits smart enough to pick up the phone and ask for the free stuff we receive," he said.

Q. I use a motorized scooter and sometimes trucks in my Kaka'ako neighborhood park on the sidewalk. That means I have to swerve out into the street, as do other elderly people walking in the area. Can the crews park there?

A. Honolulu police Lt. Mark Boyce said it is illegal to park on the sidewalk and he suggests you call 911 when you see the problem you're describing.

"A police officer will respond and likely ticket if there's a violation, and possibly tow," Boyce said.