Question: Is there an organization that helps senior citizens learn how to use the computer? I went to my public library, and they have the computers to use but the tutorials are on the computer! I need help even getting started, and I would like a real person to be there so I can ask questions as I go along. I don’t want a self-taught type of thing.
Answer: There are several affordable options for adults who want to learn how to use a computer. You might start with Emeritus College affiliated with Honolulu Community College, McKinley Community School for Adults or Waipahu Community School for Adults, depending where you live on Oahu. All three offer group classes for adults who have never or rarely used a computer. Emeritus, in particular, offers a wide range of specialized computer workshops for senior citizens, according to its website.
For more information, contact:
>> Emeritus College at HCC, 845-9296, pcatt.org/emeritus.
>> McKinley Community School for Adults, 594-0540, www.mcsahawaii.org.
>> Waipahu Community School for Adults, 307-9677, www.wcsahawaii.org.
When you call, ask about enrolling in the computer class for absolute beginners. These classes are not free, but the cost is relatively low, especially considering that all the necessary equipment is provided. The exact cost will vary depending on the site you choose, but should range from about $65 to $100.
As you get more comfortable using a computer, you might choose to continue in more advanced group classes at your preferred site or switch to the free, self-paced computer lessons you mentioned being available at your local library.
A Hawaii library card is the ticket to a trove of electronic resources, including online courses, academic databases and general-interest reference materials, as well as the tools needed to use them (including free, limited computer time, which may be reserved in advance, and free Wi-Fi). For a glimpse of what’s available, see 808ne.ws/1YXcXrL.
In addition, you might want to pay $25 annually to be in the Emeritus Club, a group for people 55 and older that is affiliated with Emeritus College (see contact information listed above). Members get discounts on selected Emeritus workshops and get to use the computer lab to practice their assignments outside of class.
Question: My neighbor went to the Honolulu Police Department to apply for a Concealed Carry Weapon Permit. Unlike the firearm registration forms that are available online, the CCW permit application is not. Also, when my neighbor went to the same desk as the firearm registration unit at HPD, he was provided the CCW application forms but was told he could not leave with these forms; he was required to complete the forms on the premises. Why aren’t the CCW applications available online, and why was my neighbor told he could not take the application forms home to complete them?
Answer: Kokua Line followed up with HPD spokeswoman Michelle Yu, who said that the department plans to put the CCW forms online in the future, although she did not give a specific date. As for why applicants now must fill out the forms on HPD premises, Yu said that “the public used to be able to take the applications home, but this practice was discontinued a while back because of the high number of forms that were returned with incomplete or incorrect information. Common errors included using non-HPD persons as witnesses and not having a registered gun prior to applying.”
Mahalo
Mahalo to the kind gentleman who helped me when my car battery died on Pali Highway, Kailua-bound, on the evening of Nov. 20. Thank you for staying behind me with your truck hazard lights on (as mine were not working) until the police arrived. May the Lord bless you! — So grateful
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.
