Supporters of Puna Pono Alliance’s Aug. 17-19 anti-geothermal March on HELCO have scheduled a series of preliminary awareness activities for the community.
Supporters of Puna Pono Alliance’s Aug. 17-19 anti-geothermal March on HELCO have scheduled a series of preliminary awareness activities for the community.
“It’s our last big push to alert the community on the Save Pohoiki actions,” said a spokesman for the organizing committee. “We can really use your heartfelt participation. We are working to let everyone know about the threats being posed to our local environment and lifestyle. The March on HELCO will be our best chance to get nationwide attention for our concerns. The more people who show up the better … if you can help for even a few hours, this would be wonderful.”
Today from noon to 4 p.m. at Kalani Honua, the Save Pohoiki Community Festival will offer the latest news on geothermal, an update on legislation from state Sen. Russell Ruderman, guest speaker Henry Curtis and info on alternative energy, with music by Bruddah Kuz and Terrapin Station.
Everyone is invited to wave signs next week, Monday through Friday by the Pahoa sign near Aloha Gas, on the following schedule: Monday, 4 to 6 p.m.; Tuesday, 7 to 9 a.m.; Wednesday, 4 to 6 p.m.; Thursday, 4 to 6 p.m.; Friday, 7 to 9 a.m. If you can help, please email sairam2@hawaiiantel.net.
As for the big march itself, coordinators say: “Please come if you love Puna! Walk a little or a lot, as you like!” Campsites will be set up along the way for folks making the total trek.
Here’s the basic marching schedule for anyone wanting to connect with the group: Saturday, Aug. 17 — meet at Pahoa High School at 9:45 a.m. for parade through town; Sunday, Aug. 18 — meet at 9 a.m. on the corner of Shower Drive and Highway 130; Monday, Aug. 19 — meet at 10 a.m., either at HELCO at 1200 Kilauea Ave. to do sign waving, or at the corner of Puainako and the Volcano Highway, across the street from Prince Kuhio Plaza, for the final 2-mile march to HELCO headquarters at the corner of Kekuanaoa and Kilauea streets.
The protest event is sponsored by the alliance. For more information, please contact organizer Steve Sparks at 339-1193, email asinsparks@gmail.com, or visit www.punapono.com. Other ways to help out: email listen1111@gmail.com; write to Puna Pono Alliance, P.O. Box 492668, Keaau, HI 96749; email punapono.com/index.php/contact.