Controversial Mansion In Napili Goes On Sale For $12.9 Millon
By Taryn Kama
Asprawling mansion in Napili with a fraught history is up for sale at just under $13 million.
It's been listed for about one month and was built by contractor Greg Brown. The property, located at 5385 Lower Honoapiilani Road, has drawn heated opposition from neighbors since construction began four years ago.
Despite objections, the 7,344-square-foot estate now stands complete, boasting 12 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and an array of luxury features. The home is equipped with a heated rooftop pool and jetted spa, an outdoor kitchen with a built-in barbecue, an elevator, two dining rooms, two great rooms, and 14 smart TVs. It can sleep 24 guests.
The MLS listing has an important caveat: “Buyer to do their own due diligence.” It notes the 45-foot-tall house received an exemption from Special Management Area rules by Maui County.
Among many issues, there are questions about the massive structure’s compliance with zoning and permitting rules. This discrepancy is just one part of a broader saga involving the mansion’s controversial construction history. While the property is currently appraised at $1.9 million in county assessment records, its value on the open market reflects not just the amenities but also its contentious history and ongoing legal uncertainties.
Local realtor Tyler Coons has the listing and noted that the County approved the building. He said that there have been a few interested parties, and he is looking forward to selling the home quickly. He described the property as very unique and well-built, with one of the best views on the West Side.
However, concerned citizens and the Napili Bay Association, which formed to help fight the construction, plan to try to halt the sale of the house, noting that litigation has been filed against the County and the builder.
Sam Small, a video producer, head of the
nonprofit Maui Causes, and a member of the Napili Bay Association, said neighbors hope to stop the sale to protect both the buyers and the community. He also noted there has been litigation filed.
Chris Salem, a local activist and former county employee, has filed a legal complaint against the County. He believes the County is in gross negligence in enforcing Shoreline Management Area (SMA) regulations. He believes that SMA rules were not followed, not just in the case of this house, but for many properties on Maui.
From the outset, neighbors were troubled by the home’s size and height, which reaches 45 feet, well beyond what many believed to be in compliance with local regulations. Neighbors have been fighting the County on the matter for years. The Maui County Council held multiple hearings in response, and citizens called for an investigation, which was granted, but it was never carried out.
The County issued several stop-work orders during construction, but ultimately, the community’s efforts to block the building's completion were unsuccessful.
Confounding the situation, it is not zoned for short-term rental, and is being marketed for sale as a residential home.
Reported by the news organization, Civil Beat, in 2023, county planning director Kathleen Ross Aoki issued a letter warning of fines up to $20,000 and more if the property was rented short-term in violation of its zoning.
This was after Brown’s lawyer sent a letter saying it would be offered for short-term rental.
Despite its tumultuous past, the mansion is being marketed as one of the premier luxury properties on Maui.
With a price tag of nearly $13 million, the sale could bring closure to years of controversy – or re-ignite the debate with Maui County and the community.
The mansion. Photo: Maui Pulse
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Advanced Maui Optical And Space Surveillance Technologies Conference
Taking Aim At Making Space Safe For All Nations
By Cindy Schumacher
Celebrating its 25th anniversary on Maui, the annual Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference (AMOS) was held on September 17-20 at the Wailea Beach Resort-Marriott.
Presented by Maui Economic Development Board (MEDB), AMOS is the premier technical conference in the nation devoted to Space Situational Awareness (SSA). It is renowned for bringing together leading experts, researchers, and practitioners from all spacerelated fields with a cross section of private sector, government and academic participation to help foster dialogue and international collaboration. In addition to technical sessions, the AMOS Conference includes keynote speakers, SSA policy forums, exhibit sessions, technical short courses and networking events.
With space debris becoming a growing hazard, a group of space-faring nations have entertained some policy options to create an international SSA database. However, much discussion is still needed to regulate spaceflight to make it safe for all.
Also, as more nations enter the fray, many observers believe that more collisions in space are inevitable without space traffic coordination. That prospect makes SSA data sharing now, before accidents happen, more critical because the space economy is part of our economy on Earth.
“The continued growth in AMOS attendance, 1308 attendees, and 25 participating countries this year, reflects a growing interest in space sustainability and space commerce initiatives as new actors—national governments, private sector companies, nongovernmental entities, and universities—become involved in these activities,” said Leslie Wilkins, MEDB President and CEO.
Sandy Ryan, MEDB Conference Director, added, “Celebrating a quartercentury reflects innovation, collaboration, and progress in the space domain. We are
honored to be an active partner in this growth .... ”
THE EMER-GEN PROGRAM
Preceding the AMOS conference, the EMER-GEN® program, now in its 7th year, is a joint initiative of AMOS and the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC). Launched in 2018, the program was designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship especially for young professionals and students (age 35 and under) who are enthusiastic about careers in space.
With the help of experts and renowned space specialists, EMER-GEN provides an opportunity to extend the reach of the AMOS conference.
“The program encourages participants to think creatively, collaborate in teams, and develop innovative solutions at both a technological level and a policy level,” said Annette Lynch, MEDB Director of Communications. “The diverse range of activities and speakers helps participants enhance both their technical expertise and leadership capabilities.”
Maui resident Matthew Lugo, an EMER-GEN alumnus who works with Privateer Space, Inc., explained, “EMER-GEN is also known for its focus on Hawai’ian cultural subjects. I feel it is important for the space industry to have regard for the ground environment as well. We need to be leaders in both.”
Lugo continued, “This year, along with two SGAC representatives, we invited Michael Nāho’opi’i, Executive Director of Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission (KIRC) to
share an update about the island. The island of Kaho’olawe is just seven miles off the coast of Maui. It is managed by the KIRC team; who are working towards a restoration of the island.”
Nāho’opi’i explained, “The history and culture of Kaho'olawe is indeed rich. It is believed to have been inhabited since about 400 A.D. and the abundance of historical and archeological sites paints a picture of the island as a navigational center for voyaging and a center for agriculture. Modern times have been less kind.”
He said the island has been home to a penal colony, a sheep and cattle ranch, and a U.S. Navy bombing range. Those land uses were detrimental to the island’s delicate ecosystem and led to severe habitat
degradation. The KIRC team has restored these habitats with on-the-ground hard work and coordinating expertise and assistance. Additionally, they are undertaking the cultural restoration of the island and its people.
STUDENT SPACE EXPLORATION DAY
On the last day of AMOS, 150 Maui County middle school students, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) educators, and Maui High School robotics students were welcomed by MEDB.
The students were excited to meet the current Deputy Administrator of NASA, Pam Melroy, who is also the second woman astronaut to pilot the space shuttle. In addition, the students visited exhibit booths for hands-on STEM activities.
“It’s an honor to be here at AMOS,” Melroy said. “It’s important to connect with the next generation and get them interested in space-related issues. There are great things happening right now. Artemis will launch soon, SpaceX is doing incredible things, we are going back to the Moon, to Mars, and more. Maybe someone here right now will be the first one on Mars!”
Lori Koyama, Lahaina Intermediate School educator, said, “It’s amazing to bring students to this event and expose them to career pathways that exist for their future in Hawai’i. They experienced new opportunities they didn’t know exist.”
Lilyanne, Maui Waena Intermediate student, shared, “I learned that space exploration has led to many technologies that are used in everyday life including; internet, banking, health benefits, and much more. Pam Melroy is inspiring!”
Liam, a Maui High robotics student, said, “Pam Melroy’s description of what she’s done in her life and the skills and traits she’s developed showed the effort and time you have to put in to do something like this. She showed us the work in school we need to do to accomplish such tasks, and that there is a job skill for each person. We are all inspired today!” Y
Deputy Administrator of NASA, Pam Melroy, and the second woman astronaut to pilot the space shuttle, shared her adventures as an astronaut and the upcoming missions at NASA with Maui students.
PHOTO CREDIT: Jose Morales
Michael Nāho’opi’i, Executive Director of Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission shared an update with the EMERGEN cohort on the island’s restoration efforts.
Doors Closing, Doors Opening
Following a lackluster summer, tourism is expected to stay soft through the beginning of next year. Lisa Paulson, executive director of the Maui Hotel and Lodging Association, estimates the visitor industry workforce has declined by 3,100.
In the meantime, as construction ramps up in the wake of the Lahaina fires, other aspects of Maui’s economy are good.
Many businesses are experiencing a “yo yo” of good days and bad days, or are booming, and adjusting their hours and costs to accommodate the inconsistencies.
In Honokowai, where I live, we lost a long-term anchor, the Honokowai Farmers Market and Deli, which for whatever reason closed after close to 20 years. The Kihei location stays open.
Meanwhile, in Lahaina, the Lahaina Healing Center has opened in the Lahaina Gateway Center, bringing back yoga classes, sound healing and other events lost when Island Spirit Yoga was decimated in the fires. In North Kihei, La Poblana Mexican is expanding to a second restaurant in the old Maui Tacos near Hawaiian Moons in South Maui. And a major retailer, Seafood City, opened in Kahului, along with a few others.
Maui's economy is changing! Remember, your vote counts, especially now. Vote wisely on Tuesday, November 5!
~ Eric T. Richter, publisher Y
Maui Pulse is published by Maui Promotions.
Publisher & Editor ~ Eric T. Richter
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Controversy Over Temporary Vacation Rentals Sparks Heated Debate On Maui
Recent state legislation has empowered counties to regulate Transient Vacation Rentals (TVRs) and a proposal seeking to reduce TVRs by revoking permits for over 7,000 properties, continues to be controversial on Maui.
The first public testimony on the effort to phase out some 7,000 short-term rentals was heard on June 25 during an all-day meeting of the Maui Planning Commission. There were empassioned arguments from both sides. Shortterm vacation rental owners contended that the plan would put local workers out of jobs and cause the county to lose millions in tax revenues, weakening an already struggling island. They enquired on how the County plans to replace that tax revenue. Proponents argued for the need for more affordable housing among other concerns about housing shortages since the fires. The proposal is awaiting more hearings and action by the Maui County Council.
A blog post from the Economic Research Organization (UHERO) at the University of Hawai’i website summarizes the policy proposal and the characteristics of the affected units. if enacted, this policy could increase Maui’s long-term residential housing stock by 13 percent.
In 2001, a legal memo by Maui County employee Richard Minatoya clarified TVR regulations. Properties operating as vacation rentals before 1989 were allowed to continue under what became known as the “Minatoya List,” which was later adopted into the Maui County Code. Many of the properties on the list are in areas zoned for apartment buildings. Maui Mayor Bissen plans to phase out these permissions, requiring affected units to transition to non-vacation rental uses.
According to the blog post, an analysis of property tax records identifies 7,167 apartment district units on the Minatoya List, with 6,172 currently operating as TVRs. These 6,172 units are the primary target of the proposed policy and would be forced to cease short-term rental operations. The properties are concentrated in West Maui, Kīhei, and Wailea, while other TVRs, not on the Minatoya List, are more dispersed across the island.
Maui County has a total of 63,000 housing units, with 47,400 used for local housing and 13,000 functioning as TVRs. Another 2,500 units are dedicated to timeshare operations. Shifting 6,172 TVR units to long-term residential use would increase the housing supply by 13 percent. If implemented, the policy's impacts would likely be most felt in the areas with the highest concentrations of TVRs.
Vacation rental owners argue that some of these TVRs are very small with only wet bars for kitchens (as required by County codes) and are not suitable for long-term housing for families, especially with only one parking space.
Laptops Bring Smiles To Recipients
By Lee Imada
For some, the refurbished laptop given to them at no cost was their first computer. For others, the laptops replaced ones burned in the wildfires.
Most of the 60 income-qualifying recipients in the program picked up their Dell and Lenovo laptops at Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) in Wailuku and received a computer backpack over the summer.
The laptops and backpacks were donated by AT&T and Human-I-T as a part of the AT&T Connected Learning® initiative. MEO distributed 60 laptops on Maui and Moloka‘i in July and August. Fifity laptops were offered on a first-come, first-served basis on June 21, but MEO received 60 applications within an hour-and-a-half of opening up the process.
Due to the high demand, AT&T and Human-I-T provided an additional 10 laptops so that everyone who signed up before the application portal was closed could receive a laptop. The laptops were given to residents at or below 350 percent of the poverty line and had not received a laptop through an MEO-sponsored program in the past two years. Those receiving the laptops planned to use them for school and classes to perform online tasks previously done on a smaller phone, and to perform activities on their “own” computer rather than a borrowed one.
“There is a definite need for laptop computers in our community for lower income residents,” said MEO CEO Debbie Cabebe. “We were surprised by the deluge after opening up the application process and apologize to those who were unable to get a computer. Thank you to AT&T and Human-I-T for providing the laptops. There were smiling faces as they clutched their new computers.”
“AT&T is proud to collaborate with Maui Economic Opportunity and Human-I-T to help close the digital equity on Maui and Moloka‘i,” said Elizabeth Songvilay, External and Legislative Affairs, AT&T Hawaii. “Connectivity is a vital part of our lives and we’re so glad we can provide these resources to those that need them most.”
AT&T and nonprofit Human-I-T provided the laptops, and MEO assisted with the distribution. Human-I-T offers refurbished devices, helps with internet access and provides digital skills training. AT&T, Human-I-T and MEO collaborated to distribute 45 laptops late last year. (Writer, Lee Imada is the Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO) Executive Assistant.)
Tinga $4, Vegetable $5. TEQUILA SHOTS ~ $5-$7 select tequilas.
SergiosCantinaMaui.com
The Unknown Eater Dines Upcountry
Makawao Public House Delights Patrons
By The Unknown Eater
If you love steaks, seafood, locally produced food, and live music, you might really like Makawao Public House.
Makawao Public House, which took over the old Makawao Steak House space on Baldwin Avenue, is relatively new, having opened within the last couple of years. I recently dined there with my husband for dinner. It feels like a place that locals frequent.
We arrived around 6 p.m. on a Thursday, and a local guitarist was playing acoustic chill-out songs, such as “Brown Eyed Girl” and “Country Road.”
The place was hopping. Clearly, the locals know about the great happy hour, which lasts until 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We were promptly greeted by a hostess and seated right away. At the time, we didn’t realize it was happy hour, but we noticed a packed house and plenty of people enjoying appetizers and cocktails. A staff member handed us menus and brought a bottle of tap water with two glasses.
The menu featured items you’d expect—such as steaks, burgers, and seafood—but also had some pleasant surprises, like a venison burger with blue cheese and truffle fries.
It also has locally inspired, unique cocktails—served up with proper garnish and glassware and mixed to be both tasty and beautiful. There’s a nice selection of local and imported beers and an interesting selection of wines from around the world.
As we looked over the menu, the server informed us of the specials
for the night and mentioned that happy hour was still on until 6:30. Among the offerings was a flank steak on top of rice with caramelized vegetables, so I ordered that. We also ordered beers, along with a venison burger with truffle fries and a smash burger with greens instead of fries.
Our appetizer came out hot, beautifully plated, and grilled to perfection. The steak was tender. The caramelized vegetables were neatly stacked, and the steak rested on a bed of white rice, allowing it to soak up the juices. It seemed more like an entrée than a happy hour item – and it was delicious. The happy hour price was $22, which I thought was an excellent deal. The regular prices are competitive with other Maui establishments.
After we finished the appetizer, the waiter cleared our plate, and soon after, our burgers arrived. They looked and tasted great – seemingly thoughtfully prepared. The truffle fries had just the right amount of truffle, and my salad was lightly dressed with fresh greens. Although our orders didn’t come out exactly as we had requested, we were still happy and enjoyed pleasant conversation with our waiter.
With the great live music, good food, and reasonable prices, I would definitely return to “Maktown” (as it says on the staff members’ shirts) again.
According to its Instagram (@makawaopublichouse), Makawao Public House's happy hour is from 4 to 5 p.m., with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m. Live music is featured on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. It’s located at 3612 Baldwin Ave. in Makawao.
A burger with fries was a hit at Makawao Public House.
This Halloween, Show Reverence To Nightmarchers
As Halloween approaches, we begin to see images of ghosts all around us. Is it really too much to imagine that we might be more than the flesh and bones of our bodies?
Might it be possible that we are energy that can exist in many forms and that we could have a spirit which occupies our bodies until they expire? If this is so, what if we were warriors whose lives were dedicated to the protection of our Kings, Queens, and Chiefs…?
According to Hawaiian legend and mythology, there exist ‘huaka’I po,’ or Nightmarchers, who are the warrior spirits or ghosts that were the foremost protection for ancient royalty. On nights which honor Hawaiian Deities, the nightwalkers emerge from the burial sites of the ‘aina’ (land) or up from the ocean and march in unison toward sacred sites.
They appear as they did when in bodies, but are also somewhat transparent and they float above the ground. They wear battle attire and beat war drums as they march. Some carry spears to protect the chief amongst them. If nearby, you may hear the faint whispers of their march as the air becomes cold and still in the hours between midnight and sunrise. On rare occasion, they even march in the sunlight, when they are needed to escort a newly deceased relative from death toward the spirit world.
By Jonathan Yudis Y
to burn brighter and brighter as their march approaches. Those who live along the path that they march may hear the resonant tones of their chanting or the echoes of the conch shell being blown throughout the night. No physical barriers will deter them, and they have been known to walk through homes as well.
Beware: for sometimes they appear with the odor of death, and legend has it that any living mortal who disrespectfully looks upon them will perish with a violent death.
Should you find yourself in their presence, there is a way to express respect and reverence. It is said that if the living lays motionless with their face to the ground and remains perfectly still while they pass, they will be spared.
You can also avoid trouble if you have an ancient relative amongst the marchers. Should one recognize you, they will chant ‘Na’u,’ which means ‘Mine’ in Hawaiian, and it lets the others know to not harm you. Legend also says that planting living ti around one’s home will cause the ‘huaka’i po’ to avoid these areas.
To understand their presence is to understand ‘kupa’a,’ or loyalty in service. They are steadfast to their chief, causing the flames of torches
So, no matter where you may be, always remember to live with ‘ho’ihi’ (respect.) If we respect our ancestors that came before us, our elders that have led us along our way, our children who will carry our torches into the future, and most of all ourselves, then we can live without fear in ‘aloha’ and ‘lokahi’ (harmony).
Oct. 4, 5, 6
SNOW ANGEL, a funny and eerie tale of teen angst, discovery, and the power of believing at Maui OnStage. At the Historic ‘Iao Theater in Wailuku. All tickets are $10 and available at https://www. mauionstage.com/snow-angel/
Oct. 5
LO WOLF UNPLUGGED, 7:30pm at ProArts Playhouse in Kihei. Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 7:30 An intimate lyrical flux of compositions, both songs and poetry, on both guitar and the beautiful ProArts grand piano. Visit proartsmaui.com for tickets.
Oct. 6
COMEDIAN MELISSA MAE ~ Get ready for a night of laughs with Hawaii’s haole sweetheart, Melissa Mae! Not only is she a hilarious comedian, but she’s also a certified yoga instructor! 7pm at Da Playground Maui, in Maalaea. 2 drink minimum. Visit DaPlaygroundMaui.com.
Events Calendar
Oct. 8-9
MEO TEEN FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP at the Cameron Center, Wailuku. 9-11:30 a.m., with no cost to participants. To register: www.meoinc.org, click on the “Programs & Services” tab, then “Business Development Center” and “Financial Literacy.”
Oct. 9
NATHAN AWEAU is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808669-3858
Oct. 11
OLD SCHOOL FRIDAYS ~ A mix from the ‘90s to 2000s, throwback party, spinning the best hits! 9pm at Da Playground Maui in Maalaea. Tickets: daplaygroundmaui. com.
Oct. 11-20
TWO COFFEES, PLEASE presents ART ~ A Comedic Play by Yasmine Reza
Translated by Christopher Hampton. At ProArts Playhouse in Kihei. Visit proartsmaui.org for details/tickets.
Oct. 12
ESSENTIAL OILS WORKSHOP
5-7PM at 299 Humupea St., Kihei.. Create your own unique blends and take home scented rollerballs! $65. NEW Herbal workshop every Second Saturday. Pre-register at malamaohanamaui.com
Oct. 12
FIESTA SATURDAYS - BAILA Y BESOS. 9pm at Da Playground Maui, Maalaea. Details/tickets: daplaygroundmaui.com .
Oct. 16
BOBBY INGANO is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-6693858
Oct. 16
ARIES FULL MOON RITUAL & Temple Spa Mini Retreat, BlackSwanTemple.org
Oct. 18
BACK TO THE 80’s with live band Espresso. 2 shows, one ticket, 6:30-9pm at da Playground Maui, Maalaea. Visit DaPlaygroundMaui.com for tickets.
Oct. 19-20
HAWAI`I INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (HIFF) Saturday & Sunday, various screening times, McCoy Studio Theater, MACC. The Maui Showcase for the Hawai‘i International Film Festival (HIFF) will include six feature films, one short film, and a collection of four ‘Made in Hawai‘i’ short films. For film titles and show time details, log on to MauiArts.org. Tickets: $12 per screening (plus applicable fees)
Oct. 19
BLACK SWAN AERIAL YOGA, Sound Healing & Temple Spa Mini Retreat, BlackSwanTemple. org.
Oct. 19-20
PSYCHIC REIKI HEALING Level 1 with Amy Lohr and Heimana. 9-4 both days. Tap into your intuitive psychic abilities and learn the ancient art of Reiki. Private location. $222. For information or to enroll, call or text Amy (808) 269-5983.
Oct. 23
SEAN PARKS is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-6693858
SNOW ANGEL is staged at the ‘Iao Theater October 4, 5, and 6.
MAGICIAN DAVID KURAYA will astound you on Oct. 27 in Kihei.
Oct. 24
TEMPA & NAOR MUSIC Medicine Series: Retro Rewind.This special evening will feature their favorite songs from the ‘70s and ‘80s, performed in acoustic style with soulful vocals, guitar, and violin. 7:30 at ProArts Playhouse, Kihei. Visit proartsmaui.org for tickets.
Oct. 26
Mystic Mass Masquerade -- Pool & Dance Party with Heather & Donny Regal (Mystical Alchemy Sound Healing), T.O.D. and Shoshana B., at Hale Akua Garden Farms, Tickets BlackSwanTemple.org
Oct. 26
FREE RANGE COMEDY. This wickedly funny improv troupe specializes in “Who’s Line Is It Anyway?” short-form improv. You’ll laugh your tailfeather off! Tickets: $15. At Pro Arts Playhouse in Kihei, visit proartsmaui.com for tickets.
Oct. 26
YIN YOGA SOUND HEALING ~ Saturdays with Lydee. 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Lumeria Maui Wellness Retreat. Cacao. Yin Yoga. Chakra clearing with crystals, and healing sound bath. Crystals are provided and available for purchase. For more info: 808-757-1111. $55 per event.
Oct. 27
MAGIC IN PARADISE starring former Warren and Annabelle’s headliner David Kuraya. 2-3 pm at ProArts Playhouse in Kihei. Visit proartsmaui.org for tickets.
Oct. 27
7th ANNUAL MAUI ‘UKULELE FESTIVAL. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon starting 2 pm on the lawn at the MACC as acclaimed ‘ukulele musicians fill the air with island music! This year’s lineup of artists (to date) include: Jake Shimabukuro, Kanekoa, Derick Sebastian, Kala’e and Rama Camarillo, Hula Honeys, Benny Uyetake and more to come! t’s a beautiful day for the whole family - visitors and residents alike, and best of all, admission is FREE! Visit mauiarts.org.
Oct. 27
HAWAII FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Pickleball Tournament and Backcourt BBQ at the Royal Lahaina Resort. Visit hawaiifoodandwinefestival. com for details.
Oct. 30
21ST ANNIVERSARY PARTY featuring Daniel Ho at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. Refreshments & Swag Bag 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-6693858
Nov. 16 - Sound HealingCalling on the Wisdom of Flowers - Maui Scalar Room - 5:30 to 7 pm - Unlock the wisdom of flowers and experience deep healing. Immerse yourself in scalar energy, flower essences, essential oils, and hands-on energy work, all harmonized with the soothing sounds of a transformative sound bath. Info. & tix: GoGetitEnergyHealing.com.
ONGOING
GEORGE KAHUMOKU’S SLACK
KEY SHOW: Every Wednesday at Napili Kai Beach Resort
October Guests: Sonny Lim, Nathan Aweau, Bobby Ingano, Sean Parks, Daniel Ho. Tickets: www.SlackKeyShow. com/show-schedule or 808669-3858
ALTERED EARTH - Through Oct. 19, Schaefer Gallery hours are Tue- Sat, 10am – 4pm; Free Admission . This invitational exhibition features ten contemporary ceramic artists who explore the medium of clay and earth-derived materials
FIND EVENTS, meet new people and join the LGBTQIA+ community! Brunches, hiking, live entertainment. yearly festival and much more . Aloha Maui Pride on FB or visit AlohaMauiPride.org.
LAHAINA HEALING CENTER ~ Classes, workshops in yoga, massage, sound healing and more! Find and follow on Instagram. Located in the Lahaina Gateway Center.
Shaka: A Story Of Aloha
By Cindy Schumacher
The feature-length documentary Shaka, A Story of Aloha premieres on Maui at the MACC (Maui Arts & Cultural Center) at 1 p.m. on Sunday, October 20.
Delving into the origins, meanings, and mysteries of the iconic shaka gesture, the film has been selected as an official entry for the Hawai’i International Film Festival (HIFF) and will be showcased at special premiere events across the islands, including Oahu, Maui, Hawai’i, Lānai’i, and Kaua’i.
The documentary features original music by renowned local artist Henry Kapono who noted, “This project is going to connect everyone. The film is a call to serve one’s community through positivity and sharing the aloha spirit. The music in the movie is uplifting, the message is great, and I’m proud to be part of it.”
Reflecting on the venture, Sue said, “Our original plan was to create a 20-minute short for classroom use, but the story quickly grew beyond what we imagined.”
However, the final piece ended up documenting a 110-year tale that spans native Hawai’ian culture, Japanese plantation workers, the Mormon Church, a used car salesman, a Honolulu mayor, entertainers including Elvis Presley, besides surfers and extreme sports enthusiasts worldwide. Over 60 interviews were conducted across multiple Hawai’ian islands and in California.”
Sue explained, “The story started as a passing curiosity when a friend introduced me to kupuna (elders) who, as keiki (children) in the 1930s and 1940s, knew the Shaka Man, Hamana Kalili, known as the father of the shaka sign. Kalili lost three middle fingers on one of his hands. How he lost the fingers is a subject of local legend. However, when he waved to people he held up the hand that had only a thumb and pinky finger. The wave caught on, was soon adopted by others, and the rest is history!”
While the above storyline is well-documented, alternative origin stories abound, including a Maui-based version that centers around the actor David ‘Lippy’ Espinda, best known for his television role in Hawai’i Five-O, who used the sign in his many commercials. There is also a Molokai-based Kalaupapa leprosy colony version, and a Portuguese drinking gesture version. As documentarians, the film crew presents all credible findings so audiences can decide for themselves.
Five Years in the Making
The film has been in production since 2019. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced a two-year hiatus shortly after filming began. Production resumed in 2022 when a movement was inspired by the film.
Funded initially by Kamehameha Schools, the film is produced by ID8, a Hawai’i-based nonprofit founded by Steve Sue. The company fosters ideation and expression to create positive impacts by sharing aloha through entrepreneurship and educational programs. Written by Sue, the film is directed by Alex Bocchieri and produced by Sue and Brian Spicer. Cultural advisors for the project include respected Hawai’ian experts Robert ‘Lono’ Ikuwa, Manu Boyd, and Hailama Farden. Visit projectshaka.com to find out more.
Steve Sue and Hawai’i State Senator Glenn Wakai, legislative presenter of the Shaka Gesture Bill. As part of the project, Hawaii residents can now obtain license plates with a Shaka logo. Photo courtesy of Steve Sue.
Meet Maui County’s New Film Commissioner
By Barry Wurst II
The Maui Film Office recently announced Brian Kohne as their new Maui County Film Commissioner.
After Tracy Bennett’s retirement this year, following a decade in the role, Brian Kohne—writer and director of the acclaimed 2017 local independent film “Kuleana” and head of the Academy of Creative Media Maui at UHMC—shared his insights on the future of Maui’s film industry.
“If Maui really does want this industry to exist, as a viable and complimentary companion to the visitor industry, we must reject hype and embrace the investment of time and resources that are required,” said Kohne.
Kohne’s experiences in making movies on Maui gives him a unique perspective on ways to make it feasible, both for local filmmakers helming independent projects and the bigger productions that originate from the mainland.
“As a director, my primary responsibility on set is to help people succeed in their roles,” said Kohne. “I am devoted to helping people in our community understand their roles in the exciting story we can create together.”
I asked Kohne for his perspective on Maui’s current film scene. “I’m cautiously optimistic we can envision and established a right-sized industry on Maui, with ample space and support for no-budget, lowbudget and modestly budgeted independent works,” said Kohne.
He said: “Massive productions on Maui would require the vast majority of workers and equipment to be flown in, deflating the purpose of having an industry. Our residents
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seldom inhabit meaningful positions on such goliath projects,” he continued, ‘If I had a wish for our industry, based on opportunities I’m seeking to create, it would be to aspire to becoming a department head or, better yet, strive to thrive as a legitimate, above the line participant, in creative roles, such as producer, writer or director. With more of the town in the driver’s seat, it stands to reason more locals will be hired and be given opportunities to level up. This is my dream.”
Kohne offered his take on what the prime obstacles are that local filmmakers face and what advice he would give them. “Most will
say money,” said Kohne, “but we never have enough time or money, no matter one’s budget or circumstances, so limitation is a cop out in my view. A healthy perspective, relative to obstacles we encounter, on the path to production through to distribution, is to embrace them both as training exercises, and rites of passage,” he added.
“Assuming one does want to originate and participate in meaningful, original, island-based work, there are simply no short cuts,” said Kohne.
“If you want to become a great writer? Write every day, you will get there. Probably not as quickly as you wish, but in the process, you will experience real life, build a community around shared goals and eventually have stories and insights to share with the world. As the late, great Maui philosopher Lloyd Gilliom once said about our industry, ‘In this business, no more free lunch.’ I concur wholeheartedly,” he concluded.
Y
Register And Vote!
Election Day is coming up soon on November 5! If you aren’t registered yet, Hawaii offers online voter registration at https://olvr.hawaii.gov/.
You can also register by mail to vote in Hawaii by printing a voter registration form, filling it out, and mailing it to your local election office.
You can also register in person if you prefer. You can register and vote at the same time during the early voting period and on Election Day. Check details online for due dates.
Chronicling Lahaina And Maui’s Past
Prolific Writer Weaves Tales About Local History
By Cindy Schumacher
Award-winning Maui journalist and author Jill Engledow is currently living in a quaint little town in Oregon; although she says that no matter where she is, Maui will always be home and in her heart. Engledow has written numerous books about the history of Maui and Hawai’i. She began her island life at age 13, when she moved with her family from Texas to Hilo, and fell in love with Hawai’i—it’s land, people, music and culture. After she arrived on Maui in 1968, this love affair with the islands blossomed into a committed long-term relationship. Now, using the history she has studied and shared in her nonfiction work, she is writing novels about women making lives for themselves on Maui in years gone by.
“My writing has chronicled Maui life for more than 40 years, most notably during my 17 years at The Maui News,” Engledow said.
“After working as a reporter for The Maui News from 1980 to 1998, I turned to freelance writing, mainly about historical Maui events and the local culture. I also wrote historical reports and worked with the Lahaina Restoration Foundation (LRF) to do museum displays. The island, influenced by its traditions, religions, customs, and culture, has such a remarkably diverse history.”
Engledow has written approximately 20 books. Some of her nonfiction includes Haleakalā: A History of the Maui Mountain, for which she was awarded a 2013 Independent Book Publisher Award. The book shares rich historical accounts and vintage photographs documenting the mountain’s geology, ancient myths, silversword and nene, depression-era building projects, and the community effort that created a national park. Additionally, her book Sugarcane Days: Remembering Maui’s Hawai’ian Commercial & Sugar Company won a Preservation Honor Award from the Historic Hawai’i Foundation.
Since the August 2023 wildfires, another of Engledow’s books, The Story of Lahaina, has been in great demand. A travel through time, the book introduces you to the historic West Side town that has survived and thrived in every era of Hawai’ian history.Recently, speaking at a Rotary Club meeting while visiting Maui, Engledow expressed her heartfelt sorrow about the fires.
“Then came the wildfires,” she said regrettably. “In its aftermath, people have been sending me notes of appreciation for writing The Story of Lahaina because they want to remember the town they loved so much. I have recently added a chapter at the end about the fires. It was such a tragic event and such a huge loss. My heart goes out to all those affected as . . . I send my prayers to the people who are drawing on their strength and resiliency to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their businesses.”
Heather Mueller, President of the Rotary Club of Maui, noted, “To anyone who appreciates a well-written historical account of Lahaina and Maui in general, I highly recommend all of Jill’s books. They offer a wealth of information about Maui’s past through a Reiki simply gives the body, mind and spirit the energy it needs to clear blocks, reawaken the senses, and heal itself!
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“I can’t say enough about Jill as a person. She is so dedicated to the island she loves and has gone out of her way to do pro bono historical work for our Rotary Club, LRF, Hospice Maui, and others. In addition, she was recently part of a volunteer editorial team and proofreader for the new art book, Remembering Lahaina Compiled by the Maui Arts League, the coffee table book includes a collection of 250 images of paintings created by acclaimed professional plein air artists, from 2006-2023, during the Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational event.”
Now, it’s time to read Jill’s new fiction—a trilogy she wrote from her own personal experiences on the island. So far, her novels contain what she’s learned about her “world’s best island” to tell tales about women on Maui. “I love to tell a story,” Engledow emphasized, “Fiction is new for me. It takes a long time to come up with a plot. However, through my knowledge and local experiences, the Women on Maui trilogy was born.”
The trilogy begins with The Island Decides, a story set in 1971 about single-mom Carrie Ann Emerson searching for her lost daughter, and how their journey brings them to upcountry Maui. In the sequel, A Dollar and Love, the story continues with Carrie and her daughter Rorie living in rural Makawao.
Finally, in Rose’s War, an upcountry Maui woman’s friend and farm manager is unjustly suspected of being a Japanese spy during WWII. The complete selection of Engledow’s books is available on Amazon.
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Outdoor Sports
Maui Surfers Earn Top Rankings In The World Surf League
By Taryn Kama
Two Maui surfers finished among the top ranks at the 2024 Men’s Championship Tour of the World Surf League (WSL); with two challenge competitions coming up in the next couple months. Maui’s own Imaikalani (Imai) deVault, 26, is currently ranked 18th, while Ian Gentil, 27, holds 24th place (at press time).
The top 22 surfers automatically qualify for the following year’s Championship Tour. The remaining 10 spots are filled by competitors from the Challenger Series, with two additional wildcard spots offered by the WSL. On a side note, surfing legend Kelly Slater is ranked 31st.
Gentil will compete in the challenge round—the EDP Ericeira Pro, held in Ribeira D’Ilhas, Ericeira, Portugal, from Sept. 28 to Oct. 6; as well as an additional challenge event held in Brazil Oct. 12-30 in Rio de Janeiro. These events offer him a final chance to qualify for the Championship Tour next year.
Both deVault and Gentil grew up on Maui and began competing as teenagers.
“I am extremely proud to represent Maui at the top level of the WSL,” deVault shared. “Coming from this small island surf community, it’s an extreme honor. When I was a kid, Dusty Payne was the first Maui boy to make it to the WSL Championship Tour, and I remember how much that inspired me. It pushed me to believe it was possible. I’m proud to be that inspiration for the next generation of surfers growing up here today.”
Gentil echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Surfing on the Championship Tour is a
dream come true. This year in Australia, I found myself out in the water with Eli [Hanneman] and Imai, all of us in our jerseys. It was surreal. Maui has so much talent, and it’s been an honor to contribute to our island’s representation at the highest level of the sport.”
Eli Hanneman, 21, also of Maui, competed in the championship but did not finish in the top rankings. Additionally, local Maui surfer, Jackson Bunch, 20, will compete in the Challenger Series. He will compete on the tour next year, after earning enough points by competing in the Challenger Series in events across the world.
On top of the WSL series, Maui is also home to many big wave surfers, including: Ian Walsh, Yuri Soledad, Kai Lenny, Tyler Larronde, Billy Kemper, Kai Barger, Joao Marco Maffini, and Paige Alms, and many more.
Maui continues to produce world class surfers with a lot of young kids with the same dream of Imai and Ian—working hard to make a name for themselves on the “dream tour.”
The World Surf League (WSL) has been the global home of competitive surfing since 1976, crowning champions and showcasing the best talent in the sport. The WSL oversees the global competitive landscape of surfing, setting the standard for elite performance.
The organization is committed to protecting the ocean, promoting equality, preserving the sport’s rich heritage, and driving progression and innovation.
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Imai deVault
Photo: WSL
Ian Gentil
Photo: WSL
Imai deVault, Photo IG @imaikalani_devault
Ian Gentil, Photo IG @iangentil
Enhancing Your iPhone Skills
By George Gordon
Here are some iPhone tricks that might come in handy. When you open up your 2385 emails and need to delete more than just one, take two fingers and touch the top of the first email and swipe down. It will create blue circles with check marks in it. Click on TRASH and they’re gone. Otherwise you will have to click on EDIT and mark each one separately and that will take few hours and a worn out finger.
When I’m typing on my iPhone and need to insert a number, I have to hit the “123” icon and choose a number then go back and hit the “ABC” button to continue with letters. Well, if you just press on the “123” and quickly slide up to a number and press it, it will automatically switch back to Letters. Much faster this way.
I use the microphone a lot, especially when sending texts. Its easier then typing. Now you can have both options at the same time. Open up “Messages” and put a persons name in it, like your ex-girlfriend and then press on the microphone icon. Start talking like saying “This is it. I’m hanging it up with you.” Then type in “adios.” Click on Send, then go drink a beer.
Another cool way to type is called Swiping. You gotta try this cause it probably the fastest way to type. Again, open up Messages and make sure your forefinger doesn’t have Pasta stuck to it. Let’s say your filing a complaint to the Happy Valley Laundry Mat. Place your finger on the “H” and quickly swipe to the “A” then to the “P P” then to the “Y.” See how fast that was? Next time bring real quarters and not electrical box slugs.
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