QUESTION: I noticed that the signs for the freeway carpool lanes read, "Summons or citation issued by mail." Exactly how does this work? I’ve never heard of anyone receiving a ticket this way, although it would be hard to issue a ticket in person with the lack of a shoulder lane.

ANSWER: It is because there is little room to pull over violators of the HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) lanes that state law allows citations to be issued by mail.

However, that procedure apparently is never used in citing violators.

The Honolulu Police Department says it cites violators on the spot; it does not mail citations.

While the state Department of Public Safety sheriff’s deputies can also issue citations, we’re told deputies don’t normally patrol HOV lanes and also do not issue citations by mail.

Section 291C-223 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes says police can either issue a citation at the scene or: "Make every reasonable effort to be seen by the operator of the vehicle and record evidence of the violation by taking any information displayed on the vehicle that may identify its registered owner and cause a summons or citation … to be sent by certified or registered mail."

The summons or citation should have a return receipt postmarked within 48 hours of the time of the incident. If the end of the 48-hour period falls on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday, then the ending period is extended to the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or holiday.

Upon receipt the registered owner would have 14 days to respond by paying a fine by mail or requesting a hearing.

If a violator does not respond within 14 days, the Traffic Violations Bureau will issue a penal summons, ordering a court appearance.

In answer to the often-asked question about whether HOV violators are ever cited: According to Traffic Violations Bureau records, courtesy of the state Judiciary, thousands of motorists have been.

Records show 688 citations for HOV violations were issued in 2005; 329 in 2006; 1,346 in 2007; 1,215 in 2008; 750 in 2009; and 1,852 in 2010.

QUESTION: Do you know of any company that recycles magazines?

ANSWER: Hagadone Printing accepts magazines, telephone books and other materials for recycling at its plant at 274 Puuhale Road.

Go to www.hagadoneprinting.com/printgreen/recycle or call 847-5310 for information.

MAHALO

To two Costco Hawaii Kai employees. I was there buying a pack of towels for the Hawaiian Humane Society as it requested them for the 150 dogs that were rescued from the Waimanalo puppy mill on Monday. Costco Manager Alberta and employee Karen saw what I was doing, and each bought more towels with her own money. — Tracy

"The outpouring of support has been terrific and much needed," said Hawaiian Humane Society spokeswoman Jacque LeBlanc.

But the organization still can use donations from the public, including the medications Advantix, Revolution, Sentinel, Cestex, Advantage, Heartgard and Capstar; shampoos/conditioners; clippers; brushes/slickers; wire crates (medium and large); Kuranda dog beds (medium and large); new made-for-dog toys; and dog biscuits and treats.

Donations can be dropped off any time at the Humane Society’s 24-hour admissions center, 2700 Waialae Ave. See www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187.