MauiTimes - Vol. 03, Issue 09 September 2023 - Love Lāhainā

L VE Lahaina

REMEMBERING LĀHAINĀ TOWN PG.9 DEALING WITH SURVIVOR'S GUILT PG.13 TOXIC STORMWATER RUNOFF PG.15

IS

As the editor of MauiTimes and a born-and-raised Lāhainā resident, this issue holds a deeply personal significance for me. Watching my hometown face the devastating impacts of the Aug. 8 fire has been a heartwrenching experience, compounded by the unique challenge of simultaneously providing news coverage while navigating my own grief.

My family has lived in Lāhainā since 1884, when my great-great grandfather immigrated from Japan to work on the sugar cane plantation. The fire consumed five generations of hard work, including my childhood home, where my father spent 46 years of his life; our family business as owners of the Banyan Inn Marketplace and adjacent apartment building; a significant portion of our belongings, including irreplaceable sentimental items; and three cats who remain missing.

Yet, amidst this destruction, a silver lining has emerged: the unwavering strength of my community as well as an outpouring of support from loved ones and strangers alike. Lāhainā, this is not goodbye, but a new beginning — and I’m eager to witness this next chapter of renewal and restoration.

—Ashley Probst, Editor

1955 Main Street #200

Wailuku, HI 96793 Tel. 808-244-0777 www.mauitimes.org

FOUNDERS

Tommy Russo

Mark D'Antonio (1971-2018)

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / COO

Darris Hurst - darris@mauitimes.org

EDITOR

Ashley Probst - editor@mauitimes.org

CALENDAR EDITOR / ADMIN.

Shan Kekahuna - shan@mauitimes.org

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Dawud Moragne - dawud@mauitimes.org

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Darris Hurst - darris@mauitimes.org

CONTRIBUTORS

Chelsea Paslay, Anthony Pignataro, Ron Pitts

Cover design by Darris Hurst.

Mahalo nui loa to the kind soul who stopped to comfort me while I cried about the devastation in Lāhainā. I was bawling in my truck when a fellow local pulled up and asked what was wrong. The only words I could muster were, “I’m from Lāhainā.” This complete stranger got out of their car and hugged me while I sobbed, then helped regulate my breathing. They told me I have the same name as their baby sister. This is community. This is aloha. This is why Maui will always be nō ka ‘oi.

In Case You Missed It #ICYMI

By Anthony Pignataro

County of Maui Sues Hawaiian Electric For Damages Caused by Kula, Lāhainā Fires

The County of Maui has joined a growing list of plaintiffs filing suit against a state utility for damages caused by recent fires around Maui, county officials announced Aug. 24.

The 57-page complaint, which was filed in the Second Circuit Court, alleges that Hawaiian Electric and its subsidiaries, including Maui Electric, “acted negligently” by failing to deenergize their electrical equipment despite a National Weather Service Red Flag Warning that was issued Aug. 7, the day before a wildfire devastated Lāhainā Town.

“Defendants’ inactions caused loss of life, severe injuries, complete destruction of homes and businesses, displacement of thousands of people and damage to many of Hawai‘i’s historic and cultural sites,” states the complaint.

The lawsuit also alleges that Hawaiian Electric knew its utility poles were vulnerable to falling over and igniting vegetation in high winds, such as those forecasted for the day of the fire, and that the company’s infrastructure “did not use available technologies to mitigate fire risk.”

The complaint includes similar allegations regarding a separate fire in Kula, which also began on Aug. 8 and ultimately burned 19 homes.

Officials with Hawaiian Electric released a two-sentence response to the lawsuit.

“Our primary focus in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy has been to do everything we can to support not just the people of Maui, but also Maui County,” Hawaiian Electric officials stated. “We are very disappointed that Maui County chose this litigious path while the investigation is still unfolding.”

At an Aug. 14 press conference held on Maui, Hawaiian Electric CEO Shelee Kimura said that the practice of de-energizing power lines during high wind situations was “controversial” and not required in Hawai‘i.

Debris Removal Underway in Kula, County Says

Disaster cleanup crews have begun work to remove and dispose of hazardous waste from properties impacted by wildfires in Kula, county officials said in an Aug. 23 news release.

Crews from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency have begun to survey, remove and dispose of hazardous waste materials including paints, cleaners, solvents, oils, batteries and pesticides, stated officials with the County of Maui.

The EPA is also removing fuel from pressurized cylinders and tanks, according to the county. The crews will mark empty tanks for a later cleanup phase.

Additionally, workers will remove items thought to contain asbestos, but only if they are easy to identify, according to the

county. Full asbestos removal will take place during a follow-up phase of hazardous waste removal.

These hazardous materials require special disposal procedures following a fire, according to the county.

Cleanup crews will also immediately stop work and contact the Maui Police Department if they find functional firearms or suspected human remains, county officials said.

As they work, EPA crews will monitor the air for particulate matter (dust-like materials), heavy metals and asbestos. Once this phase of cleanup is finished, EPA crews will apply an adhesive called Soiltac on any debris and ash found on the property to prevent dust from blowing away. This adhesive is dyed pink and is nontoxic and biodegradable, according to the county.

There is currently no debris removal work in Lāhainā, according to county officials, who stated that such work will only begin after recovery teams allow EPA crews to enter the area.

Dozens Testify as Maui County Council Considers Lāhainā Recovery and Resiliency Resolution

Dozens of residents testified on Aug. 22 at the first Maui County Council meeting held since the Aug. 8 wildfire that devastated Lāhainā Town.

On the agenda was a non-binding resolution calling for a recovery

and resiliency plan for West Maui following the Lāhainā fire, now considered the deadliest fire in modern U.S. history.

Testifiers at the council meeting brought up many issues, some regarding immediate needs like internet access and unemployment benefits, while others may take years to resolve, such as explaining the cause of the fire, ensuring accountability and making sure something like this never happens on Maui again.

For many of the residents who spoke, emotions were high and intense. Not all of the West Maui testifiers agreed on what should happen, or even why the fire happened.

Though no action was taken on the resolution, Council Chairperson Alice Lee said this was the first of many meetings on how to move forward with a recovery and resiliency plan for Lāhainā, and that future meetings would be held in West Maui.

“There will be a lot of discussion,” Lee said. “We recognize that this is early, but we’re taking this as slow as we possibly can. We need to hear from everybody.”

At least 50 people were signed up to testify at the meeting, according to the County Clerk. These stories have been cut for space. To read the full articles, visit our new website at mauitimes.org.

Courtesy Facebook/tamara.paltin

Courtesy Governor Josh Green

Front Street in Lāhainā Town following a devastating fire on Aug. 8.

Maui County Councilmember Tamara Paltin meeting President Joe Biden during his Aug. 21, 2023 visit to Lāhainā.

VE Lahaina

In the wake of a devastating fire that swept through Lāhainā on Aug. 8, the MauiTimes team has united with heavy hearts to dedicate this special section to the historic town. Through tales of loss, resilience and the strength of our community, we aim to honor Lāhainā and its people. Though the town may have been lost to the flames, its spirit remains unbroken. The following pages include a poignant essay from former editor Anthony Pignataro, who returned to contribute to coverage of the fire; a tribute to the Best of Maui winners affected by the disaster; a firsthand account of survivor’s guilt; and an exploration of environmental concerns amidst hurricane season.

As we navigate the path to recovery, may these stories inspire a sense of solidarity in the face of adversity and empower Lāhainā to rise from the ashes.

Reflections on Loss, Resilience and Rebuilding Remembering Lahaina Town

By Anthony Pignataro Courtesy County of Maui

historical and cultural structures are gone. Lāhainā Town was home to the old courthouse, the Baldwin Home, the Masters Reading Room, Hale Aloha, the Wo Hing Temple, the Plantation Museum and many others. Their loss is incalculable.

“What is destroyed cannot be recovered,” the Hawaiian historian Sydney Iaukea dryly noted in her 2014 book “The Battle of Keka‘a,” about the development of North Beach. Such losses are a very old and all-too-common story in Hawaiian history, as is astonishing death, which pretty much dominates post-contact Hawai‘i.

Of course, not everything in Lāhainā was historical, as Iaukea has noted. Lāhainā’s status as a “whaling town,” much beloved by tourists, was greatly overstated to cover the town’s true Hawaiian Kingdom history.

Almost exactly 20 years ago, I was sitting in my new MauiTime editor’s office on the second floor of 505 Front Street in Lāhainā Town. I’d been on the island for about a week, and was still finding my place.

That evening, I attended a civic meeting at Lahaina Intermediate School. The sun was setting as I walked back down Lahainaluna Road into town. I passed the imposing remnants of the old Pioneer Sugar Mill. I was hungry, but only knew how to get to Hard Rock Cafe. I made my way there, and enjoyed a burger and beer at the bar as I watched tourists laugh and sit on the seawall out front and gaze at the darkening ocean — this became my regular hangout spot.

When I was done, I headed south on Front Street, passing bars, restaurants, galleries and shops that were still new to me. I passed the historic banyan tree, planted in 1873. I walked by the elementary school named for King Kamehameha III, as well as Moku‘ula, his for-

mer residence. The once beautiful island home that was lush with fresh water, before sugar interests took them away, was just a ball field back in 2003. Recent years have brought serious archaeological study to this sacred space.

My path then took me past the nice houses at Shark Pit until I reached an apartment near Puamana where I was staying with co-workers until I found my own place.

So far, there are 115 confirmed dead from Lāhainā, according to the County of Maui. But county officials are also giving conflicting estimates of individuals who remain unaccounted for. Identifying the dead could still take weeks — a friend who went through the Tubbs Fire in Northern California back in 2017 said it took a month to get an accurate body count.

I wish I knew what happens to Lāhainā now. Paradise, California,

“Lāhainā was built and preserved to mimic a whaling town so that tourists vacationing at the newly built Kā‘anapali Beach Resort could visit after long days of rest and relaxation,” Iaukea wrote in a 2016 essay titled “The Re-Storing of Lahaina.” “However, the whaling tale that was recreated had very little in common with the actual industry that existed a century and a half prior.”

The immediate loss of Lāhainā as a tourist attraction will hurt Maui, given the county’s stubborn desire to rely on tourism for economic growth. The damage will be bad everywhere — especially when many people and businesses are still trying to recover from challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

On the night of Tuesday, Aug. 8, a wildfire devastated virtually every place I just described. More than 2,200 structures, the vast majority of them residential, were damaged or destroyed. Lahaina Intermediate survived, and the banyan tree may survive, too, but all of Front Street, and the entire historic district, is gone.

a town of 26,000 that was completely destroyed in the 2018 Camp Fire, is still being rebuilt. Current population figures show just 10,000 residents still call the town home.

“Rebuilding” seems like such an inadequate word when considering Lāhainā, given the death toll and the fact that the town’s greatest

Lāhainā will never be as it was on Aug. 7, nor will Maui. Losses like these amount to generational trauma, which could last decades. But what Lāhainā becomes should be up to Lāhainā residents. Whether that will actually happen, remains to be seen.

But before any of that happens, Lāhainā needs to account for all its residents. That will take time and inflict much pain, which I fear has only just begun.

Lāhainā Town following the devastating Aug. 8, 2023 fire.

What Lahaina becomes should be up to Lahaina residents. Whether that will actually happen, remains to be seen.

Supporting Best of Maui Winners Amidst Devastation Community in Crisis

By Ashley Probst

About a week after MauiTimes’ highly-anticipated Best of Maui edition — its first iteration since the pandemic — a staggering number of winners were impacted by the Aug. 8 fire that decimated Lāhainā Town. Nearly 40 first-place winners have lost their businesses, homes, possessions and/or loved ones. The few entities that have been deemed safe are actively assisting their employees and/or community through the devastation. Here, we’ve compiled a list of all the West Side winners, including status updates and ways to provide support.

BEST OF MAUI WINNERSDESTROYED / DAMAGED

Amigo’s: Our readers’ pick for the Best Mexican Food on Maui lost its Lāhainā location to the fire, but locals can still support the eatery, and get a taste of the island’s Best Burrito, at its Kīhei and Kahului locations.

Athena Medina: Maui’s Best Visual Artist — who was also working to organize Fuzz Fest, which was voted Best Music Festival — has lost her home, business and artwork in the fire. She is accepting donations via Venmo @AthenaMedina and has set up a GoFundMe to help the impacted communities.

Baya Bowls: This vibrant eatery on wheels was named Best Food Truck Breakfast for its refreshing açaí bowls and smoothies before it was lost to the fire. A GoFundMe has been set up to support the three out of five employees whose homes burned down as well as rebuilding.

Beyoutiful Soul Shop: A 10-year dream that finally came to fruition in 2022, the Best Gift Shop’s owner and high-vibe jeweler Jessalyn Nicole lost her flagship store, a new kiosk and her Front Street home. She is accepting donations via Venmo @Jessalyn-Manina.

Blake Ball, Lahaina Intermediate School: Born and raised Lāhainā resident Blake Ball lost his home in the fire. Lahaina Intermediate School, where he works as Best School Teacher, was spared. A GoFundMe is available to support the entire Ball family, including his father Kim, owner of HI-Tech Surf Sports, which won Best Surf Shop and Best Menswear Store.

Choice Health Bar: Maui’s choice for the Best Smoothie / Juice Bar lost its original location and headquarters in the heart of Lāhainā, and 27 of its team members lost their homes. A GoFundMe will benefit employees, while the business can still be supported at its Pā‘ia and, eventually, Kā‘anapali locations.

Cool Cat Cafe: Consistently voted Maui’s Best Burger, this 1950s-themed diner was a Lāhainā staple for 30 years. The dining establishment has set up a GoFundMe for its employees, and its California locations in Pismo Beach and San Luis Obisbo are still operational.

Dalia Baltazar, Māla Ocean Tavern: Our readers’ choice for Best Server, Dalia Baltazar, lost her home in the fire. A GoFundMe has been established to support her and her family,

and they’re also accepting donations via Venmo @Dalia-Membrila.

DJ illz: Our readers’ choice for Best Stoner, Daniel Hills aka DJ illz, lost his home and everything in it during the fire. His brother has set up a GoFundMe on his behalf to help him get back on his feet. He intends to share any extra funds with his friends who are also in need.

Down the Hatch: Maui’s Best Pau Hana is pau for now, but not forever, after its sole location in the heart of Lāhainā was destroyed just shy of its eighth anniversary. The restaurant has a GoFundMe for its employees and its parent company, Hana Hou Hospitality, is also raising money for relief efforts.

Foodland: A Hawai‘i mainstay for 75 years, the Best Grocery Store’s Lāhainā location is still standing, but the store has been damaged by the storm as well as alleged looting. Fans of the chain can still get the island’s Best Poke at its Kahului, Kīhei and Pukalani locations as well as the temporarily closed Foodland Farms in Lāhainā.

Haleakava: Although Haleakava’s Front Street location burned down, our readers can still enjoy the island’s Best Kava and Best Karaoke at its original location in Kīhei. Two GoFundMe pages have been set up — one to benefit employees and another that will go toward rebuilding.

Island Spirit Yoga: Maui’s Best Yoga Studio may have burned down, but its instructors are helping West Side residents maintain their wellness journeys by offering donation-based classes at Airport Beach Mondays through Saturdays.

Julius Yadao, Māla Ocean Tavern: Although the Best Butcher on Maui still has his place of work at Māla Ocean Tavern — which is safe but temporarily closed — he lost the place he was renting and all of his possessions. Donations are being accepted via Venmo @juicyjuls24 and Māla has set up a GoFundMe to support him and the other employees who lost things.

Ka‘ano‘i Kulukulualani: Our readers’ choice for Best Twerker is directing those wanting to support her family, who lost their home, to donate through Venmo @Jolene-Kulukulualani.

Koholā Brewery: All of the Koholā ‘ohana is safe, but the brewery itself was decimated in the fire. The company is accepting donations via Venmo @Lahainabrewery-dbakohola to help support its team members through this trying time.

Kraken Coffee: The place to go for Maui’s Best Food Truck Coffee lost its Lāhainā location to the fire, but has transitioned employees to its other trucks in Kīhei and Kahului. The company held a fundraiser on Aug. 19 and continues to accept contributions via Venmo @Kraken-Coffee-Maui for the Maui Strong Fund and to give directly to affected families.

Lahaina Grill: This fine dining establishment has been serving its guests the Best Dinner and Best Wine List for over 30 years. The fire took the restaurant, but not its spirit, as the company’s GoFundMe has raised more than $600,000 to support its employees and their families.

Little Sea Gypsy: Owner Suzi Tucker’s home and in-unit jewelry studio is still standing, but was damaged during the fire and she cannot return. The island’s Best Local Jeweler also lost inventory that was in various shops. A GoFundMe has been set up on her behalf.

Lopaka Wilson, Lopaka’s Aloha Adventures: After winning the title of Best Hunter, Lopaka Wilson’s storefront burned down in the fire. A GoFundMe has been established to support him and his family as they navigate the road ahead.

Matt Williams, Down the Hatch: After losing his job at Down the Hatch, where he made a name for himself as the island’s Best Male Bartender, Matt Williams was paying out of pocket to purchase supplies for West Side residents. His GoFundMe is intended to support those who were impacted by the fires.

Sean M. Hower

Cool Cat Cafe served the Lāhainā community for over 30 years before the Aug. 8 fire.

Mau AhHee: Maui’s Best Lifeguard, who was born and raised in Lāhainā, lost their home to the fire. The Maui Lifeguard Association has organized a GoFundMe to support four lifeguards whose residences were destroyed, including Mau AhHee. Donations are also being accepted via Venmo @Mau-Ahhee.

Maui Friends of the Library: This organization has served the community since 1912 and, though it hasn’t posted any official updates, the Outlets of Maui, which housed the Lāhainā location of Maui’s Best Bookstore, was destroyed in the fire.

Maui Grown Therapies: Social media posts have insinuated that the Lāhainā location of the Best Dispensary on island was destroyed in the fire. Consumers can still access its Kahului and Pukalani locations, where displaced residents will receive compassionate pricing. The company is also directing donations to Pledge, which connects donors to various nonprofits.

Nagasako Okazu-Ya Deli: After serving the Lāhainā community for over 120 years, this local staple, which was voted as having the Best SPAM Musubi of 2023, announced in an Aug. 16 social media post that it will sadly not be reopening.

Na Hoku: Voted Best Jewelry Store on Maui, Na Hoku has been serving the community for nearly a century. The fire took two of its Front Street stores and its two Kā‘anapali locations are temporarily closed. Fans looking to support can visit its storefront in The Shops at Wailea.

Nathalie Noriega, Down the Hatch: The Best Female Bartender on Maui lost her job at Down the Hatch, which was destroyed in the fire. She has been sharing resources online and supporting families who lost their homes and/or loved ones through a community GoFundMe.

Old Lāhainā Lū‘au: This iconic entertainment venue, voted Best Lū‘au and Best Dinner & Show, survived the flames with what appears to be minor damage, but many of its employees lost their homes. A GoFundMe has been set up to support affected team members and their families.

Oscar Gonzalez, Refined Kulture Studio: The island’s Best Barber has lost his barbershop in the fire, leaving him and his seven employees without a workplace. Donations are being accepted via Venmo to support the entire Refine Kulture Studio team.

Paia Fishmarket: Voted Best Casual Dining, Best Fish Sandwich and Best Fish Tacos, this acclaimed seafood joint lost its newest location in Lāhainā during the fire. Fans of the restaurant can still dine at its Kīhei and original Pā‘ia locations, or support its GoFundMe for the Lāhainā community.

Pakaloha Bikinis: Not only did the Best Swimwear Shop lose its only storefront and warehouse filled with inventory, employees also lost their homes. A GoFundMe has been established to support its team members during this trying time.

Sale Pepe: Just after celebrating its ninth anniversary, our readers’ pick for Best Italian Food was destroyed in the fire. Supporters can donate to a GoFundMe, which will benefit the Sale Pepe ‘ohana and an eventual reopening of the restaurant.

Sugar Mamma Studio: Voted Best Esthetician and Best Hair Removal, this sweet studio was lost to the flames. Owner Angela Marie intends to begin offering her services again soon, and is accepting donations via Venmo @Angela-Marie-10.

The Beehive Lash & Brow Bar: Owner Brooke Clark, who took home the title of Best Eyelash Technician, lost her home and business in the fire.

She has announced plans to rebuild, but was still unsure of the details as of press time.

The Sly Mongoose: After slinging drinks for more than 45 years, Maui’s Best Dive Bar has run dry for the first time after being desecrated by the fire. The owner of the building plans to rebuild and the local watering hole has set up a GoFundMe to support these efforts.

Trilogy Excursions: The Best Activity Company’s team acted heroically during the fire, serving as first responders alongside the Coast Guard. Trilogy TVI was lost, but its other vessels are intact. The company is directing donations to a Trilogy Maui Fire Fund for the community and a GoFundMe for its employees. It intends to begin operations out of Ma‘alaea soon.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice: A Lāhainā staple for 15 years, our winner for Best Shave Ice lost two locations on Front Street, including its flagship store, and its warehouse. Organizers of a GoFundMe have pledged to distribute 75% of donations to employees and 25% directly to families who’ve been impacted. Also visit its other locations in Kahului, Kīhei and Pā‘ia. Westside Bagel and Bakery: One of Maui’s favorite breakfast spots, this year’s Best Bagel winner lost its bakery to the Lāhainā fire. The company has set up a GoFundMe with donations going toward either rebuilding or relocating.

Westside Vibes: After serving the West Side for 17 years and recently opening a new store on Front Street, both locations of Maui’s Best Smoke Shop are gone. The family-run business also lost multiple homes and is accepting donations via Venmo @Charity-Newman and @Pamela-Newman-56 in addition to selling Lāhainā Strong T-shirts.

BEST OF MAUI WINNERS - SAFE

Entries with an asterisk (*) have established a GoFundMe or other donation system to support the Lāhainā community and/or employees who lost things. Individuals on this list are physically safe and/or their places of work survived.

808 Boards

Cassie Hastu Photography*

Coldwell Banker Island Properties

Damian Antioco - Dooma Photos

David’s Happy Nails

Duckine*

He-Man Landscaping

Holistic Learning Center of Maui

Honu Oceanside*

James Newman - Maui Brewing Co.

Japengo

Kai Nishiki*

Lahaina Civic Center

Lahainaluna High School

Mahina*

Māla Ocean Tavern*

Matty SchweitzerIsland Eye Productions*

Maui Brewing Co.*

Minit Medical

Moku Roots*

Monkeypod Kitchen*

Niko Banto

Ono Gelato Co.*

Raymond ChinColdwell Banker Island Properties

Slappy Cakes*

Star Noodle*

Tenya Jayawuk - 10ya Yoga

The Plantation Course at Kapalua Golf*

The Snorkel Store*

Tiare Lawrence*

Whalers Village

Some Best of Maui winners have not posted updates on the status of their businesses or themselves; anyone missing from this list was not able to be confirmed by press time.

Sean M. Hower

Family-owned-and-operated Westside Vibes lost two storefronts and multiple homes in the fire.

Sean M. Hower

Nagasako Okazu-Ya Deli announced that it will not reopen in an Aug. 16 social media post.

We’re here to serve our Maui community now more than ever during this tradgedy.

Our hearts go out to the victims of the Lahaina fire, our first responders and the entire Maui Ohana as we collectively embrace these challenging times. We’re here to remind you that it’s okay if you’re struggling short or long term emotional and mental health. We’re here for you whenever you’re ready.

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“Serving Maui with Aloha. We are Maui Strong.”

On Aug. 8, 2023, I was on storm watch. Hurricane Dora was set to pass 500 miles south of Hawai‘i and winds were expected to pick up dramatically by that afternoon. Living on a sailboat, I had already taken the day off work, knowing I needed to be on board to keep the vessel safe.

When I woke up that morning, I had no idea that decision may have helped save my life. If I had gone to work, there was a good chance I would not have made it back.

By noon, the wind was ripping down the mountains, blowing offshore at more than 70 mph. By 3 p.m., the fire was gearing up as wind began picking up smoke and carrying it across the water. By 5 p.m., the smoke was so thick it blocked out the sun. By 9 p.m., I was wrapped in a wet towel, struggling to breathe while dousing my sails with water, praying the embers wouldn’t burn the boat down, and me with it.

By a miracle, I survived.

Like many of the survivors of the Lāhainā fire, I’m lucky to be alive. But now that the shock of the incident is slowly wearing off, a new set of feelings are flooding in.

After surviving the country’s deadliest wildfire in over 100 years, and having a front-row seat to the destruction, I’ve had to face an

Survivor’s Guilt

Navigating the Aftermath of Tragedy

onslaught of heavy emotions. But one thing that’s been tugging on my heart stronger than the rest is guilt.

I know the fires were not my fault — I couldn’t have prevented or extinguished them. And yet, I can’t stop punishing myself for the events of that night.

What haunts me the most? Living. Especially after witnessing so much death and destruction

Every breath I take feels like a slap in the face to a mother who can no longer hug her babies. To a child who had their whole future ahead of them. To the visionaries, artists and thinkers who could have contributed something big to this world.

I feel guilty for hurting when others have lost everything, including their loved ones. I’m among the lucky ones, but the logical part of my brain can’t convince the sensitive part of my heart to stop aching.

Every night, I awaken from nightmares of fires. Nightmares of screams. Nightmares of explosions and heat engulfing me from the darkness. Nightmares of being unable to help.

But I don’t have nightmares of my home burning. I don’t have visions of my neighbors turning to ash as I escaped. I will never know the fear of running for my life. I didn’t have to leave all of my possessions behind.

Who am I to ask for help? It feels like theft from the people who lost so much more. To ask for help to ease my suffering, when it doesn’t come close to that of the people I love, feels like the looting I witnessed in Lāhainā while searching for water in the aftermath of the fire.

Though I still have my home, I’ve become displaced in a different way. With Lahaina Harbor gone, Maui no longer has a viable place to live on a boat. My only option is to leave the island, but I feel guilty for abandoning my community in its time of need — for choosing to move forward with my life when others have no choice but to start over.

Survivor’s guilt is real, and others are suffering from it, too. The toll this fire has taken on the mental health of Maui residents is immense. While we work on rebuilding the land, we must also work to take care of its people.

With so many stories from survivors on the news and so much footage of the fire, it’s hard not to question our actions. But amidst this uncertainty, it’s important to remember that we all did the best we could.

In these trying times, we’re bound by this shared journey and the collective strength of our community. As we move forward, let’s never forget that none of us walk this path alone.

Thick clouds of black smoke covered Lāhainā during the Aug. 8 fire.

Photos and story by Chelsea Paslay

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Lahaina Prepares for Potentially Toxic Stormwater Runoff Amidst Hurricane Season

By Ashley Probst

Maui residents have been manifesting rain, but this actually may be harmful to the waters surrounding Lāhainā. On Aug. 8, a wildfire damaged or destroyed most of the town, including more than 2,200 structures — 86% of which were residential. In the midst of hurricane season, there is concern over potentially toxic sediment runoff, which naturally occurs after heavy rains.

“You really have this toxic soup,” said John Starmer, chief scientist at the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council and regular MauiTimes contributor. “You’ve got heavy metals, you’ve got the residuals of burned plastic, you’ve got all the chemicals that anybody had in their household plus industrial chemicals — all that sort of stuff was burned in an uncontrolled environment.”

The biggest issue here is the unknown: Not only is it difficult to determine what toxins may be in the runoff, there’s also very little research on short- and long-term effects since this is not a common occurrence, according to Starmer.

As post-tropical storm Fernanda approached Hawai‘i on Aug. 20, the National Weather Service announced that it anticipated rainfall in the windward and mauka areas of Maui through the morning of Aug. 22.

In an effort to reduce runoff, the U.S. Coast Guard installed absorbent booms at eight storm drain outfalls that connect the impacted areas of

not be enough. This sentiment was echoed by Starmer, who said these devices can effectively hold back larger chunks of debris, but potentially harmful chemicals will likely still seep through.

Some negative effects may include a “poisoning effect” on marine life from exposure to the likes of copper or other heavy

you’re hitting them from multiple different directions, which is not going to be good for the overall well-being of anything in the water,” he said.

Starmer also pointed to human health risks, as these toxins “tend to accumulate in the food chain.”

Once these materials get into the ocean, Starmer emphasized that they are incredibly difficult to regulate. “All of the environmental organizations I’ve spoken to … [are asking], ‘How do we keep it on the land?’ ” he said. “It’s not great on the land, but it’s much better … than letting it get into the water because you’ve lost control at that point.”

Starmer also noted that the Environmental Protection Agency has made efforts to spray a “binder across contaminated areas to hold everything together” and keep potential toxins on the land until it can be disposed of properly.

If toxins do make it into the ocean, they also run the risk of being spread across a large area due to the strong currents in Lāhainā. This dangerous water quality could affect shorelines from Kā‘anapali all the way to Olowalu Landing, and Maui County has advised beachgoers to stay out of brown water in those areas.

Starmer and other environmental stewards are pushing for funding to get water tested now in order to have a baseline for further research.

Lāhainā to the ocean. Emergency response crews also deployed inlet protection devices at all street-level storm drain catch basins, according to a Maui County news release.

The Aug. 20 press release was transparent about the fact that these preventative measures may

metals, decreased oxygen levels as well as bacterial and algae blooms, according to Starmer.

“The way to sum it all up is that you are throwing a whole bunch of toxins into the environment. Each of them may have a very different effect on a single organism, but it’s sort of like

Additionally, landscapes that have been impacted by the Aug. 8 wildfires are at an increased risk for flooding due to the decrease in surrounding vegetation. The possibility of flash flooding, mudslides and unstable roadways will increase, even in areas that are not typically considered high-risk, according to a Maui County press release.

Hawai‘i’s hurricane season runs through Nov. 30, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which has predicted more cyclone activity than usual due to it being an El Niño year.

Maui County has taken preventative measures to keep potentially toxic stormwater runoff from entering waters off the coast of Lāhainā.

"You really have this toxic soup. You’ve got heavy metals, you’ve got the residuals of burned plastic, you’ve got all the chemicals that anybody had in their household plus industrial chemicals — all that sort of stuff was burned in an uncontrolled environment.”

—John Starmer, chief scientist at the Maui Nui Marine Resource Council

By Shan Kekahuna

SEPTEMBER 23

HENRY KAPONO & FRIENDS: BENEFIT CONCERT

With his laid-back, contemporary island rock music that voiced the feelings of an entire generation in Hawaiʻi, Henry Kapono returns to Maui for a concert to benefit victims of the fires. 6:30pm. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului; 808-242-SHOW; mauiarts.org

ONGOING IN SEPTEMBER

SUNNY SAVAGE HEALING SESSION

Enjoy this healing space on a half-acre farm overlooking ‘Īao Valley and the ocean. Services may include limu (seaweed) baths, flower bathing, sauna, herbal medicine, acupuncture and/or massage. Wild and locally prepared foods are included. This is a decompression session for those directly impacted by the fires. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10am-1pm. Savage Farms Healing Center, Wailuku; sunnysavage.com

ONGOING IN SEPTEMBER

FREE EQUINE ASSISTED SESSIONS IN RESPONSE TO MAUI FIRE

The Spirit Horse Ranch and Healing Hearts

SEPTEMBER 10

MUSICAL BENEFIT FOR MAUI

A day on the North Shore with ʻono food and local music featuring Anthony Pfluke and other surprise artists. 12-6pm. Island Fresh Cafe, Pāʻia; islandfreshmaui.com

SEPTEMBER 13

SEPTEMBER 23

RALLY AROUND PEACE FESTIVAL

Come together with the community for a day of unity, justice and celebration to rally for peace and create a brighter future for all. This festival will be filled with inspiring speakers, uplifting live music and yummy food, and is an opportunity to join hands and make a positive impact on our world. All proceeds will go to support those affected by the Maui fires. 10am-4pm. Imua Discovery Garden, Wailuku; teranjy.org/maui-peace-day

SEPTEMBER 24

OKTOBERFEST

This special celebration, in an effort to raise Maui’s spirits, will feature the Haiku Hillbillys. Partial proceeds will go to support Lāhainā. Maui Brewing Co., Kīhei; 808-201-2337; mauibrewingco.com

SEPTEMBER 29

SHERYL RENEE SALUTES

Take a melodic trip down memory lane as Sheryl Renee (aka the Lady with the Golden Voice) pays tribute to one of the world’s most renowned music icons, Ella Fitzgerald, featuring David Graber on bass. A portion of the proceeds will benefit fire relief funds. 7pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; 808-463-6550; proartsmaui.org

SEPTEMBER 15

KAMAʻĀINA NIGHTS: KŌKUA EDITION

This locally home-grown concert series for the entire ‘ohana will feature a candlelight benefit for Lāhainā featuring local musicians, community resources and other ways to support those impacted by the Maui fires. 6:30-8pm. Queen Kaʻahumanu Center, Kahului; queenkaahumanucenter.com

Team is opening their Equine Assisted Trauma Informed Care Services Facility to help anyone who has been devastated by the fires. Tuesdays-Saturdays. Reservations required. 808280-7070; thespirithorseranch.org/maui-fire; info@thespirithorseranch.org Submit

A CONCERT FOR WILDFIRE RELIEF

Featuring The Vince Esquire Band, Eric Gilliom, Daniel Alana and other special guests. All proceeds go to Maui fire relief. 6pm. Maui Coffee Attic, Wailuku; 808-250-9555; mauicoffeeattic.com

Photo by Steven Roby / Courtesy MACC

Courtesy Sunny Savage

Instagram/triplelranchmaui

Courtesy Facebook/ProArtsonMaui

Courtesy AlohaGrowers

Da Kine Calendar

By Shan Kekahuna

BIG GIGS

FEAR - LAST BEER TOUR - SEPT 1.

Credited with helping to shape the sound and style of hardcore punk, this band has gone through various lineup changes with frontman Lee Ving being the only consistent member. You may recognize them from video game soundtracks like Grand Theft Auto V and Tony Hawk’s Underground 2. Badass Noise and Undercity Kings will join the show. 8pm. Da Playground, Ma‘alaea; 808-727-2571; daplaygroundmaui.com

FAST FREDDY’S BLUES SHOWCASE -

SEPT 8. Fast Freddy and Blue Lava Blues Band are back, along with a special guest to be announced. 7:30pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; 808-463-6550; proartsmaui.org

STEVE DUBEY AND THE MAUI JAZZ

ELEMENTS - SEPT 9. An evening of songs and sounds from the classic period of the Blue Note jazz era. Trumpeter Steve Dubey has been an active member of the Kauaʻi music community for the last three decades. The Maui Jazz Elements include some of Maui’s finest: John Zangrando on sax and flute, Mark Johnstone on piano, Marcus Johnson on bass and Paul Marchetti on drums. 7:30pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; 808-463-6550; proartsmaui.org

GROUNDATION - SEPT 13. Bursting forth from their underground status, American reggae band Groundation is set to take the music industry by storm. While capturing the essence and drive of true roots reggae, the internationally renowned band takes the art of genre-bending to new heights by blending elements of both jazz/funk fusion and transcendental dub in their progressive amalgam of sound. 8pm.

Da Playground, Maʻalaea; 808-727-2571; daplaygroungmaui.com

TEMPA & NAOR MUSIC MEDICINE

SERIES: A NIGHT IN NEW ORLEANSSEPT 14. Tempa & Naor, Aloha Growers and ProArts Playhouse present a unique musical series exploring influential genres that have shaped Tempa & Naor’s musical vocabulary, leaving us all with a heavy dose of music medicine. Special guests and audiovisuals will set the mood. 7:30pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; 808-463-6550; proartsmaui.org

VOLCANIC STRIKE HAWAII FEST - SEPT

29 & 30. Fast, loud and ready for war, this two-day event will feature performances by P.I.L.A.U., Blade, Witch Vomit, Molder, Aswag, Hemorrhoid, Torture Rack and Devil Master. Da Playground, Ma‘alaea; 808-727-2571; daplaygroundmaui.com

KOLOHE KAI - SEPT 30. One of the most popular artists in Pacific Island reggae music for over a decade, Roman De Peralta’s sound infuses the local ‘ukulele music with rhythms of roots reggae, pop and R&B. Special guests Matisyahu and Cydeways will join the show. 6pm. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului; 808-244-SHOW; mauiarts.org

ONSTAGE

KŪ MAI KA HULA - SEPT 9. Celebrating its 16th anniversary, Maui’s only adult hula competition features award-winning hālau competing in solo and group performances. Dancers will perform both kahiko (traditional) and ‘auana (modern) hula stylings. 1pm. Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului; kumaikahula.com

“WHITE HAWAIIAN” - SEPT 10, 17 & 24. This smart and witty one-man show starring

Eric Gilliom is an entertaining autobiographical stage performance. Covering his career; his Maui upbringing as a Caucasian with Hawaiian roots; and the TV, film and Broadway roles that have given him hilarious stories to share. 3pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; 808-463-6550; proartsmaui.org

HULA SHOW - SEPT 13 & 27. Enjoy a live hula performance at The Hidden Oasis of Kīhei. 5-7pm. South Maui Gardens, Kīhei; southmauigardens.com

RICHARD HO‘OPI‘I LEO KI‘EKI‘E FALSETTO CONTEST - SEPT 23. The 21st annual contest provides a championship opportunity for amateur falsetto singers, as well as a dynamic platform for the preservation and perpetuation of Hawaiʻi’s unique falsetto traditions. 6pm. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua; festivalsofaloha.com

MAUI IMPROV - SEPT 24. Come join the Maui Improv players for another unscripted comedy showcase. 7-8:30pm. ProArts Playhouse, Kīhei; proartsmaui.org

ART SCENE

MĀLAMA WAO AKUA 2023 - SEPT

9-NOV 3. The East Maui Watershed Partnership, in collaboration with Hui Noʻeau, is proud to present its 19th annual juried art exhibition, Mālama Wao Akua (Caring for the Realm of the Gods). Celebrating the native species of Maui Nui, local artists explored their watersheds and used their creative talents to raise awareness about the importance of protecting native species. 9am-4pm. Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center, Makawao; malamawaoakua.org

“ONE PUKA PUKA: THE PURPLE HEART BATTALION” - Providing visitors an oppor-

tunity to delve into the history of the 100th Infantry Battalion. Through meticulously curated displays and informative narratives, this exhibit pays homage to the brave soldiers and their selfless sacrifices during a defining chapter in our nation’s history. Mondays-Saturdays, by appointment only. Call to schedule a viewing. Nisei Veterans Memorial Center, Kahului; 808-244-6862.

ART CLASSES

FIGURE PAINTING IN THE LANDSCAPE - SEPT 8-29. Students will study a live model outdoors with a focus on learning how direct sunlight influences the model and the environment together in pictorial space. Fridays, 9am-12pm. Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center, Makawao; huinoeau.com

NI‘IHAU SHELL PIKAKE EARRING WORKSHOP - SEPT 9. Maui artist Shré Wilson will teach students how to weave their own traditional Niʻihau shell pikake earrings. 9am-12pm. Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center, Makawao; huinoeau.com

HANA KAPA (KAPA MAKING) WORKSHOP - SEPT 23. Cultural practitioner Kekai Kahokukaalani will teach participants about traditional and modern uses of kapa. 10am-2pm. Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center, Makawao; huinoeau.com

JEWELRY BASICS: TAHITIAN PEARLS + HAMMERED HOOPS WORKSHOP - SEPT 30. Students will learn basic jewelry skills and take home a pair of Tahitian pearl and sterling silver-hammered hoops and earwires made in the workshop. 1-5pm. Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center, Makawao; huinoeau.com

ART CLASSES - Let your inner artist come out with a different theme offered each day.

The East Maui Watershed Partnership, in collaboration with Hui No‘eau, is proud to present its 19th annual juried art exhibition, Mālama Wao Akua (Caring for the Realm of the Gods).

Bryan Berkowitz Courtesy Hui Noe‘ au

Wednesdays - Sundays. Island Art Party, Kīhei; 808-419-6020; islandartparty.com

LEI PO‘O MAKING - Learn how to weave basic ti leaf lei using flowers and ferns. Mondays, 2:30-3:30pm & Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30pm. The Shops at Wailea, Wailea; 808-891-6770; theshopsatwailea.com

PAINT N PURR - Bring your playful self and let the cats bring out your inner purr. Tuesdays, 6pm. Cat Café Maui, Kahului; catcafemaui.com

SANDALMAKING WORKSHOP - Learn the history of sandalmaking and guide you through the process from choosing leather to lacing up your finished sandals. Refreshments are included. Check online for availability. Good Earth Sandals, Pāʻia; goodearthsandals.com

CRAFT FAIRS

KĪHEI WAILEA GIFT AND CRAFT

FAIR - Wednesdays, 9am-2pm. Kīhei; kiheicraftfair.com

MAKAWAO MARKETPLACE - Mondays-Saturdays, 10am-3pm. Makawao; 808-280-5516; makawaomarketplace.com

MAUI GIFT AND CRAFT FAIR - Sundays, 9am-2pm. Kīhei; mauigiftandcraftfair.com

SOUTH MAUI GARDENS - Thursdays, 9am-1pm. Kīhei; southmauigardens.com

FOODIE

SUNSET FOR A CAUSE - SEPT 7. Join Maui Aids Foundation for a beautiful view, the talent of local musicians and a delicious, locally-sourced menu. You can provide hope for others just by attending, with 10% of your bill being donated to the foundation’s free health services. 4-7pm. Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery, Kula; mauiaids.org

HALE AKUA FARM TOUR - SEP 9. A delightful day of exploring the farm and indulging in a scrumptious farm-to-table feast. 12-4pm. Hale Akua Garden Farm & Eco-Retreat, Haʻikū; haleakua.org

HULIAU FOOD & FILM FESTIVALSEPT 23. A farm-to-table celebration of local agriculture featuring local chefs and student-produced films. This year’s event will also feature a five-course, farm-to-table meal and live music. All funds raised

will benefit environmental education programs for Maui youth. 6-8:30pm. Sugar Beach Events, Kīhei; mauihuliaufoundation.org/huliau-food-film-festival

AAH PINT NIGHT - SEPT 29. Serving the residents of Hawaiʻi, the Alzheimer’s Association helps those facing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias by providing local support groups and educational resources, while advancing crucial research and public policy initiatives. Help MBC donate half of house beer profits to support AAH. 6-10pm. Maui Brewing Co., Kahana; mauibrewingco.com

BREWERY TOUR & BEER TASTINGSEnjoy a VIP guided tour of the brewhouse, cellar and packaging line, which is finished with a tasting, or experience a guided tasting of four flagship beers with a knowledgeable craft beer curator. Saturdays & Sundays, 11:45am, 1pm & 2:15pm. Maui Brewing Co., Kīhei; 808-201-2337; mauibrewingco.com

CHAMPAGNE HALE AT CLIFF HOUSE

- Enjoy a front-row seat to the finest Maui sunset, a glass of select Veuve Clicquot Champagnes and an innovative pre-dinner menu. Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:30pm & 6:30pm seatings (until Sept. 20). Montage Kapalua Bay, Kapalua; 808-662-6627; montagehotels.com

COFFEE & BRUNCH TOUR - Connect with both the agricultural history of coffee and the seed-to-cup process. BYOB.

Mondays-Fridays, 8:30-11:30am. Oʻo Farms, Kula; 808-856-0141; oofarm.com

FARM LUNCH TOUR - Connect to the land as you sit down for a gourmet lunch prepared with fresh, natural products. BYOB. Mondays-Fridays, 10:30am-1:30pm. Oʻo Farms, Kula; 808-856-0141; oofarm.com

FREE DINNER FOR THE HUNGRYProviding nutritious meals to the hungry and homebound in a safe, loving and supportive environment — no questions asked. Mondays-Fridays, 5-6pm; Saturdays & Sundays, 4:30-5:30pm. Hale Kau Kau, Kīhei; halekaukau.org

HALIʻIMAILE DISTILLERY TOUR - Located in the heart of Maui’s pineapple region, the distillery starts with local ingredients and distills in small batches using unique stills to create authentic Hawaiian spirits. Mondays-Fridays. Maui Pineapple Tours, Haliʻimaile; 808-665-5491; mauipineappletour.com

HAWAI‘I SEA SPIRITS TOUR & TASTING

Learn how this company cultivates more than 30 Polynesian sugarcane varieties, practices sustainable farming, transforms organic cane juice into ultra-premium spirits and exercises a life of ecological responsibility. Daily, 11am-5pm. Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery, Kula; 808-877-0009; oceanvodka.com

SUNSET COOKOUT - Enjoy the sunset, live music, family-friendly activities and a delectable barbecue dinner buffet. 5:308:30pm. Wailea Beach Resort, Wailea; 808-707-2022

WHAT MAUI EATS - Experience a local favorite: Sunday brunch at the plantation-themed Kō. Sundays, 11am-2pm. Fairmont Kea Lani, Wailea; 808-875-4100; korestaurant.com

WINE TASTING - Experience a historic winery where wines are made from estate-grown grapes, pineapples and raspberries. Enjoy wine by the glass, wine flights, wine cocktails and pūpū. Tuesdays-Sundays, 11am-5pm. Maui Wine, Kula; 808-878-6058; mauiwine.com

FOODIE WORKSHOPS

KA PILI OHA MAI KAʻĀINA A KA MOANA

KE KALO - SEPT 23. ʻElepaio, ʻO‘opukai, ‘Apuwai … Hawaiian kalo cultivar names also refer to other things. Hawaiian Cultivars Manager Namea Hoshino will teach about Hawaiian land, sea, animal and plant names as well as their connections to kalo varieties names. 9am-12pm. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Kahului; 808-249-2798; mnbg.org

COCONUT HUSKING - See demonstrations of traditional and modern methods for husking coconuts. Tuesdays, 2:303:30pm. The Shops at Wailea, Wailea; 808-891-6770; theshopsatwailea.com

FARMERS MARKETS

HĀNA FARMERS MARKET - Fridays, 3-5pm. Hāna; hanafarmersmarket.com

FARMERS MARKET KĪHEI - Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays, 7am4pm. Kīhei; 808-875-0949

FRESH FARMERS MARKET - Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 8am-4pm. Queen Kaʻahumanu Center, Kahului; queenkaahumanucenter.com

KŌ MAHIʻAI MĀKEKE - Saturdays, 8am-12pm. Kīhei; 808-359-9103

KULA COUNTRY MARKET - Sept. 16, 10am-2pm. Kula; kulacountryfarmsmaui.com

KUMU FARMS AT THE COUNTRY MARKET - Tuesdays-Saturdays, 9am-5:30pm. Maui Tropical Plantation, Waikapū; 808-244-4800; kumufarms.com

LAʻAKEA VILLAGE COUNTRY STOREMondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 10am2pm. Pāʻia; laakeavillage.org

MAUI SUNDAY MARKET - Sundays, 4-8pm. Kahului Shopping Center, Kahului; mauisundaymarket.com

MAUI SWAP MEET - Saturdays, 7am-1pm. Kahului; 808-244-2133; mauihawaii.org

ONO ORGANIC FARMS FARMERS MARKET - Mondays & Thursdays, 8am4pm. Hāna; 808-344-6700

POʻOKELA FARMERS MARKET - Wednesdays, 8am-12pm. Makawao; 808-419-1570

SOUTH MAUI GARDENS - Thursdays, 9am-1pm. Kīhei; southmauigardens.com

THE COUNTRY MARKET - Tuesdays-Sundays, 9am-5:30pm. Maui Tropical Plantation, Waikapū; 808-633-2464; mauitropicalplantation.com

UPCOUNTRY FARMERS MARKETSaturdays, 7-11am. Pukalani; 808-5728122; upcountryfarmersmarket.com

WAILEA VILLAGE FARMERS MARKETTuesdays, 8-11am. Wailea; 808-760-9150

COMMUNITY

HOʻOULU I NĀ MELE - SEPT 8. A panel discussion with esteemed haku mele, including Kumu Hula Kamaka Kūkona, Kumu Hula Cody Pueo Pata, composers of mele Hawaiʻi Zachary Alakaʻi Lum and Uʻilani Tanigawa Lum as well as facilitator Kumu Hula Hōkūlani Holt. This special presentation will explore the various inspirations or personal muses that are essential to each when composing music or choreographing mele. Also included in this evening are special performances by participating Maui Kumu Hula and their hālau, such as Pāʻū o Hiʻiaka, Hālau Kekuaokalāʻauʻalaʻiliahi and Hālau Kamaluokaleihulu.

Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Kahului; 808-242-SHOW;

THE LUNIZ MEET & GREET - SEPT 8. Come meet Luniz, the musical artist behind hit ’90s song “I Got 5 On It,”, and receive a personalized autograph. 6pm. Paia Bay Coffee & Bar, Pāʻia; paiabaycoffeeandbar.com

HALE KAU KAU CAR WASH FUNDRAISER - SEPT 9. Stop by and get your vehicle sparkling. Funds raised will benefit Hale Kau Kau, which serves the home-bound and those in need. 9am-1pm. Ohana Fuels / Minit Stop, Kahului; halekaukau.org

SIPS & THE SEA - SEPT 16. Live music, diver presentations and screenings of the “Humpbacks of Hawaiʻi” 3D film. Enjoy food and drinks, including everything from Molokaʻi venison meatballs to spiked Dole Whip at the bar. Maui Ocean Treasures will remain open for shopping, as well. 6-9pm. Maui Ocean Center, Maʻalaea; mauioceancenter.com

KĪHEI 4TH FRIDAY TOWN PARTY - SEPT 22. Come to the South Shore of Maui for a town party with live entertainment, fun activities for keiki and teens, plus local eats and retail vendors. 6-9pm. Azeka Shopping Center Mauka, Kīhei; kiheifridays.com

RALLY AROUND PEACE FESTIVALSEPT 23. Come together with the community for a day of unity, justice and celebration to rally for peace and create a brighter future for all. This festival will be filled with inspiring speakers, uplifting live music and yummy food, and is an opportunity to join hands and make a positive impact on our world. 10am-4pm. Imua Discovery Garden, Wailuku; teranjy.org/maui-peace-day

MOVIE NIGHT UNDER THE STARS: “THE BREAKFAST CLUB” - SEPT 24. Bring your loved ones and relax on the oceanfront lawn while enjoying a screening of “The Breakfast Club” under the stars. Complimentary popcorn will be provided. Food, drinks and specialty cocktails will be available for purchase. 6:30-9:30pm. Sugar Beach Events, Kīhei; sugarbeacheventshawaii.com

MOVIES WITH CATS - What is more fun than curling up with a cat for one of your favorite movies? Saturdays, 6:30pm. Cat Cafe Maui, Kahului; catcafemaui.com

SINGING FOR WORLD PEACE - Join in an afternoon of singing peace songs from around the world. Light refreshments are provided. Sundays, 12pm. Baha’i Faith, Makawao; 808-572-1111

COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS

‘ŌHI‘A SEED CONSERVATION WORKSHOP - SEPT 16. Learn through hands-on experience with Dr. Marian Chau of Kalehua Seed Conservation Consulting and Maui Nui Botanical Gardens’ Seed Storage Technician Cathy Davenport. This workshop is open to anyone who wants to learn how to properly collect, handle and process ‘ōhi‘a seeds. 9am-12pm. Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, Kahului; 808-249-2798; mnbg.org

AKAKŪ UPSTAIRS - SEPT 20. A public-engagement event featuring a variety of speakers, screenings, panels and workshops that seek to elevate community and conversation. 6pm. Akakū Maui Community Media, Kahului; akaku.org

HONEY BEE WORKSHOP - Learn about the life cycle of beehives and the important role that honey bees play in agriculture. Fridays-Sundays, 10am. Maui Bees, Kula; 808-359-8012; mauibees.com

HUMPBACK WHALES 101 - Learn all about the 40-ton humpback. Mondays & Wednesdays, 10am. Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center, Kihei; hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov

KEIKI KINE

KEIKI CLUB - SEPT 16. Start your child’s journey in ʻolelo Hawaiʻi and join Kumu Luana Kawaʻa at Queen Kaʻahumanu Center’s keiki play area. 10-11am. Queen Kaʻahumanu Center, Kahului; 808-877-3369; queenkaahumanucenter.com

KEIKI NATURE DAY CAMP - A day of gardening, arts and crafts, outdoor games, fire-building, nature skills and more. Select Saturdays, 9am-3pm. Laulima Garden ʻOhana, Haʻikū; laulimagardenohana.com

ULTIMATE TODDLER TRAMPOLINE

TIME - Bring your keiki to burn off their energy while having tons of fun. Mondays, Fridays & Saturdays, 10am-12pm. Ultimate Air Maui Trampoline Park, Wailuku; 808-214-JUMP; ultimateairmaui.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

HEALING JOURNEY - SEP 16. Rejuvenate your body and mind in the 60-foot salt-water pool, then take a walk through lush gardens, followed by a healing concert and prayer ceremony with Donny Regal and Heather Salmon, of the Black Swan Temple. 3-6:30pm. Hale Akua Garden Farm & Eco-Retreat, Haʻikū; haleakua.org

Students will study a live model outdoors at the Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center to learn how direct sunlight influences the model and the environment together in a pictorial space.

EVENTS CALENDAR

DEATH DOULA TRAINING - SEPT 19-23. Gathering on Maui’s North Shore for its fifth international training, for five days, Doorway to Light will dig, plant and cultivate in the fields of the whole spectrum, soul-full care of the dying, their families and the dead. doorwayintolight.org/maui-training

EXERCISE AND MOVEMENT CLASS

- Anyone afflicted with Parkinson’s as well as caregivers are welcome to attend. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10-11am. Kahului; 808-281-1224; risa.pascal@gmail.com

MAUI SHALA HOT YOGA - Enjoy a hot and sweaty class with hot yoga flow and moves, music and lots of fun. Tuesdays & Fridays, 10:30am. Maui Yoga & Dance Shala, Pāʻia; maui-yoga.com

MAUI YOGA PATH - Iyengar yoga, gentle beach yoga and yoga movement on the beach with Deni Roman. Mana Kai Resort, Kīhei; mauiyogapath.com

OUTDOOR YOGA - Breathe ocean air as you practice gentle yoga postures and breathing techniques. Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays, 8-9:15am. Waipuilani Park, Kīhei; 808-214-2766; easyyogamaui.com

RESTORATIVE CAT YOGA - Practice your yoga breathing and learn to stay in position while a cat tail wraps around your ankle. Queen Kāʻahumanu Center, Kahului; Mondays, 6pm. Cat Cafe Maui, Kahului; catcafemaui.com

WAILEA HEALING CENTER CLASSES

Join Bre Wolfe and experience plant medicine, try yoga nidra or awaken your soul during a belly-dancing class with Jadeera Rose. Wailea Healing Center, Wailea; waileahealingcenter.com

YOGA AND RECOVERY MEETING

Gather to facilitate healing through community yoga with space to stretch, unwind and ground followed by a 12-step-inspired recovery meeting. Tuesdays, 6:15-7:15pm. Maui Yoga Shala, Pāʻia; maui-yoga.com

LOCAL SPORTS

CIM 1ST ANNUAL GOLF TOURNA-

MENT - SEPT 30. Get ready for a swingin’ good time! The Construction Industry of Maui hosts its inaugural golf tournament. The format for the tournament, which is sponsored by Pace Supply, is a four-person best ball scramble with a two-putt maximum on each hole. Contests include a hole-in-one Harley Davidson giveaway closest to the pin, longest drive and best-dressed team. All proceeds will go to Maui County High School Construction Vocational programs for students pursuing a trade career. 6am. The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course, Kahului; cimmaui.com

NATURE ADVENTURES

FAMILY TOUR DAYS - SEPT 2 & 3. Grab the ʻohana to tour the Maui Nui Farm while enjoying music and Thai food. 8am-5pm. Maui Nui Farm, Kula; 808280-6166; mauinuifarm.com

TALK STORY ON THE LAND - SEPT

8. Join Hawaiʻi Land Trust Chief Conservation Officer Scott Fisher for a guided interpretive hike. Learn about the area’s

history, geology and ecology while walking along the shoreline trail. Meet at the red house. 9am. Waiheʻe Coastal Dunes Base Yard, Waiheʻe; 808-744-AINA; hilt.org

FARM TOURS - SEPT 9. Meet friendly animals, see how food grows and learn how to start, design, build and maintain a school, backyard or community garden. 9-11am. The Maui Farm, Makawao; 808-579-8271; themauifarm.org

SANCTUARY SEA TALK: HISTORY OF LARGE WHALE DISENTANGLEMENTSEPT 21. Ed Lyman and Maria Harvey will take us back to when humans transitioned from harvesting whales to saving them. What methods were used in the beginning to disentangle a humpback whale and how has technology changed things? 6-7pm. Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, Kīhei; hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov

BOO BOO ZOO TOUR - Meet the animals, including birds, goats, sheep, cats, deer and more. Saturdays, 2-3pm. East Maui Animal Refuge, Haʻikū; 808-4951591; eastmauianimalrefuge.org

CASUAL DAIRY TOUR - Meet working dairy goats, dogs and cats. See modern milking machines and view inside the dairy operations. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 9:30am-3pm. Surfing Goat Dairy, Kula; 808-878-2870; surfinggoatdairy.com

EXOTIC FRUIT ADVENTURE - Explore an organic farm near Hāna aboard a Kawasaki 4WD MULE. Mondays & Fridays. Ono Organic Farms, Nāhiku; 808-268-1784; onofarms.com

GRAND DAIRY TOUR - Enjoy an authentic Maui goat farm experience from feeding, hand-milking a goat and learning all about the cheese-making process. Call for availability. Surfing Goat Dairy, Kula; 808-878-2870; surfinggoatdairy.com

HANDS-ON HONEY BEE WORKSHOPLearn about the life cycle of beehives and the important role that honey bees play in agriculture. Call for availability. Maui Bees, Kula; 808-280-6652; mauibees.com

PINEAPPLE FARM TOUR - Experience a working pineapple plantation and learn about the historic role plantations have played in Hawaiian culture. Daily, 9.30am, 11:45am & 1:45pm. Maui Pineapple Tours, Haliʻimaile; 808-665-5491; mauipineappletour.com

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE FARM TOUR - Visit a working farm and learn about stewardship models of soil fertility, composting, animal husbandry and beekeeping. Call for availability. Maui Bees, Kula; 808-280-6652; mauibees.com

WILD FOODS HIKE - Forage with confidence with internationally recognized forager Sunny Savage. Tuesdays, 10am12pm. 808-206-8882; sunnysavage.com; support@sunnysavage.com

VOLUNTEERING

PŪLEHU ROAD CLEANUP - SEPT 2. Join Pulehu Posse and Mālama Maui Nui to mālama Pūlehu Road. Register online for meet-up locations. 8-11am. malamamauinui.org/volunteer

EVENTS CALENDAR

FHNP SERVICE ACTIVITY - SEPT 5.

Help care for rare, endemic plants being propagated and drive up to work location at the greenhouse. Reservations are required. 9am-12pm. 808-927-3288

GET THE DRIFT & BAG IT! - SEPT 16.

A celebration of International Coastal Cleanup Day hosted by Mālama Maui Nui. malamamauinui.org/volunteer

KAʻEHU COASTAL CLEANUP - SEPT 24.

Help clean this beautiful beach and research what washes ashore. All ages welcome. All

supplies provided. 9am. Kaʻehu, Wailuku; sharkastics.org

LIVE MUSIC

CENTRAL

DA PLAYGROUND - Fri, Sat & Sun, various times; Maʻalaea; 808-727-2571; daplaygroundmaui.com

LAS PIÑATAS OF MAUI - Sun, 7-9pm; Kahului; 808-877-8707; pinatasmaui.com

MAUI COFFEE ATTIC - Mon-Sat, various times; Wailuku; 808-250-9555; mauicoffeeattic.com

PLATE LUNCH MARKETPLACE - Thu, 6-8pm; Kahului

WAILUKU BANYAN TREE - Fri, 3-6pm; Wailuku

NORTH

FARM STAND FOOD TRUCK COURTFri, 6-9pm; Spreckelsville

HERITAGE HALL - Fri, 8-11pm; Pāʻia; drnat.com

ISLAND FRESH CAFÉ - Sun, 12:302:30pm; Wed, 11:30am-1:30pm; Sat, 12:30-2:30pm; Pāʻia; 808-446-0298; islandfreshmaui.com

PĀ‘IA BAY COFFEE BAR - Tue, Thu & Sat, 6-8pm; Sun, 11am-1pm; Pāʻia; 808-578-3111; paiabaycoffee.com

SOUTH

DIAMONDS ICE BAR & GRILL - Sat & Sun, 10am-12pm; Kīhei; 808-874-9299

GILLIGANS BAR & GRILL - Tue, 5:30pm & Thu, 5pm; Kīhei; 808-868-0988; gilligansmaui.com

HALEAKAVA - Wed-Sun, 8-10pm; Kīhei; 808-344-0427; haleakava.com

LUANA - Daily, 5-8pm; Wailea; 808-875-4100; fairmont-kea-lani.com

MAUI BREWING CO. - Daily, 6-8pm; Kīhei; 808-201-2337; mauibrewingco.com

MONKEYPOD KITCHEN - Daily, 122pm & 6-8pm; Wailea; 808-891-2322; monkeypodkitchen.com

MULLIGANS ON THE BLUE - Fri & Sat, 6pm; Sun, 4:30pm; Wailea; 808-8741131; mulligansontheblue.com

NALU’S SOUTH SHORE GRILL - Daily; Kīhei; 808-891-8650; naluskihei.com

OHANA SEAFOOD BAR & GRILL - Daily, 3:30-5:30pm & 6-9:30pm; Kīhei; 808868-3247; ohanaseafoodbarandgrill.com

SOUTH SHORE TIKI LOUNGE - Daily, 4-6pm; Kīhei; 808-874-6444; southshoretiki.com

SOUTH MAUI GARDENS - Daily, various times; Kīhei; southmauigardens.com

THE SHOPS AT WAILEA - Wed, 4-6pm; Wailea; 808-891-6770; theshopsatwailea.com

UPCOUNTRY

OCEAN VODKA - Daily, 4:30-7pm; Kula; 808-877-0009; oceanvodka.com

To see a full list of events visit our website at mauitimes.org

Email your upcoming events to shan@mauitimes.org

Trumpeter Steve Dubey presents an evening of songs and sounds from the Blue Note jazz era.

Courtesy Linda Olds

Puzzles

Answers on page 20

Complete the grid so that every row, column, diagonal and 3x2 box contain the numbers 1 to 6.

Complete the grid so that every row, column, diagonal and 3x3 box contain the numbers 1 to 9.

EASIER HARDER

1. The easier 4x4 grid uses the numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 once in each column and row. The harder 6x6 grid uses the numbers 1 to 6.Complete the grid so that every row and column includes the numbers, 1-4 for the easier puzzle and 1-6 for the harder one.

2. The digits within each heavily outlined box, called a cage, will produce the target number using addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, as indicated by the operation in the upper left-hand corner.

3. The order placement is flexible, so long as numbers in each cage can use the indicated operation to reach the target number.

4. Grids with just one square are freebees. Just write the number in the left hand corner in the box.

SUDOKU MINI SUDOKU RIDDLE