The following information is provided by Ferk Gavelek Communications:

The Surinam cherry and jackfruit co-star at a free ultra-exotic fruit tasting and culinary demonstration 1-3 p.m. May 19 at Whole Foods Market at Kahala Mall. Come taste the fruit and see how it’s prepared by Chef Kevin Hanney of 12th Avenue Grill and SALT. Local growers will be on hand to answer questions.

The fun, fruity event is presented by the statewide Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers (HTFG), whose members are growing Surinam cherries and other ultra-exotic tropical fruits. These not-so-well-known edibles—like calamonsie, jackfruit, ulu, abiu, durian, lychee, white sapote and mangosteen—are among a growing number of odd fruits that are intriguing island chefs and shoppers.

“Besides offering unique flavors, shapes and colors, they bring novelty to the table and can delight the senses,” says Ken Love, HTFG president.

Two hikers who were stranded on a trail in Hawaii Kai Monday night are safe after they were rescued by Honolulu firefighters.

According to officials, the man and woman in their 20s were hiking from Makapuu into the Koolua mountains.

As they were making their way into Hawaii Kai, the hikers got stranded on a ridge at about 7:30 p.m. and called for help.

A Honolulu Fire Department helicopter was dispatched, but could not reach the hikers due to power lines. Rescue crews were then guided to the hikers by using the chopper's search light.

The hikers were led to safety by about 10:30 p.m.

No injuries were reported.

KULIOUOU (HawaiiNewsNow)- A woman escaped injury Sunday after a fire broke out in a home in Kuliouou.

According to officials, the fire was reported just before 2:30 p.m. in the Kalaau Place residence. Only one bedroom was damaged.

Authorities said the 30-year-old woman was able to get out of the house uninjured. The American Red Cross is now assisting her.

Damage is estimated at $11,000. Fire officials are still determining what caused the blaze.

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