(ABOVE VIDEO) Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi addresses the crowd at Thursday night’s public meeting in Pahoa. Video by David Corrigan.

NEWS BRIEFS

• Giving thanks for the latest lull in the advance of the lava flow, Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi spoke with a hint of hope during Thursday night’s public meeting in Pahoa. This week, Kenoi – like many in Puna – is substituting the word when for if, and is admitting that if the lava comes to a halt – even after all this preparation – he’d feel “awesome” and would “be so thankful.”