In 2008, Hawaii had the lowest voter turnout in the U.S. How come? And can Hawaii Change The List for the 2012 election?
“…The goal is to bump Hawaii off the bottom of this list.
The list below shows voter turnout in the 2008 general election. Shout-out to Michael McDonald, from George Mason University, who tabulated this data. For the data-minded, here’s exactly what these numbers mean: They are the state’s total turnout divided by the voting-eligible population. Other measures, including a Census Bureau survey, also put Hawaii at the bottom of the list for voter turnout in the United States. We went with McDonald’s list instead of the one from the Census Bureau because the Census bases its voter turnout numbers on surveys instead of direct ballot counts…”
Halemaumau Crater isn’t the only thing making noise in Volcano these days. Volcano Art Center, well known for its popular gallery inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park since 1974, announces the official grand opening of a second gallery location in Volcano Village.
Volcano Art Center’s new Rainforest Gallery at Niaulani now open in Volcano Village
Please join the VAC staff, board and volunteers in celebration of the new Rainforest Gallery at Niaulani on Thursday, October 25, 2012 at 6:30pm.
“Brushed by the Heavens and Inspired by Nature,” the Rainforest Gallery grand opening festivities will include live music, desserts, surprise giveaways and a final glimpse at the current installment – a group exhibition entitled The Elemental: Setting Forth Various Elements Through Transfigurement Into Shining.
The Rainforest Gallery at Niaulani is now open daily from 9am to 4pm (closed Sundays and holidays) and features a small café serving specialty coffee, espresso, tea and treats.
Immediately preceding the gallery opening will be VAC’s Annual Membership Meeting, the yearly gathering of members to formally elect new candidates for the Board of Directors. The nominated slate of incoming board members includes: Donna Barr, Darla Deville, Robert N. Herkes, Vicki Penney-Rohner and Britten Traughber.
Presided by Board Chair Linda Pratt and Chief Executive Officer Tanya Aynessazian, members in attendance will hear about noteworthy past events and future plans which are directly impacted by their invaluable support. A special award for “VAC Gallery Artist of the Year” will also be announced based on member selection.
Member check-in begins at 5:00pm and a light supper will be provided before the meeting is called to order at 5:30pm. For members who are unable to attend in person, proxy ballots must be received by October 23, 2012 at 5:00pm and addressed to: Volcano Art Center, PO Box 129, Volcano, HI 96785.
Both events will take place at VAC’s Niaulani Campus located at 19-4074 Old Volcano Road in Volcano Village. For more information, visit www.volcanoartcenter.org or contact Tanya Aynessazian at (808) 967-8222 or info@volcanoartcenter.org.
Volcano Art Center (VAC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1974 to develop, promote and perpetuate the artistic, cultural and environmental heritage of Hawaii’s people through the arts and education.
The lava lake within Halema‘uma‘u Crater at Kīlauea is tantalizing visitors and park staff as it continues its current trend of repetitive rising and falling, attracting many to the best vantage point: the overlook at Jaggar Museum.
Photo taken Friday, October 19 courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey Hawaiian Volcano Observatory
Scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory report that the lava lake rose to levels approximately 125 feet or less beneath the crater floor this morning, and HVO webcams today suggest the lake rose even higher, before sinking again this afternoon.
Dr. Jim Kauahikaua, HVO’s Scientist-in-Charge, says the lava lake will be visible from the overlook at Jaggar Museum if it comes within about 65 feet of the crater floor. The lava lake reached its highest level today since forming after an explosive eruption on March 19, 2008.
Meanwhile, rangers urge park visitors to obey traffic signs and to be safe. Visitors are gathering at park overlooks after dark to view the dramatic glow that lava beneath the surface casts upon clouds and the plume of volcanic gas, hoping molten lava will rise high enough to be seen. The parking lot at Jaggar Museum is busy with hopeful observers, who are reminded to park only in marked stalls and heed all signs.
All visitors who plan to come after dark are urged to bring flashlights, especially those who park at Kīlauea Overlook, which affords panoramic views of the crater and Kīlauea caldera. Earth cracks, rocks, and other hazards are not easily seen in the dark.
In addition, several pairs of nēnē, the federally endangered Hawaiian goose, are beginning to nest near the Jaggar Museum parking lot, and are sometimes spotted along roadsides and trails. Cars are the leading cause of nēnē fatalities, and drivers are cautioned to be alert, and to drive the speed limit.
“Safety is our number one priority,” said Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando. “We encourage everyone to visit during this fascinating episode, but to exercise caution. Staff will be assisting visitors with parking and interpretation of the current activities. If people come prepared and proceed as directed, they should have an unforgettable experience,” she said.
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