Hawaii’s False Killer Whales Facing Uncertainty
By Taryn Kama
Every winter, thousands of visitors come to Maui hoping to see humpback whales breach and play in Hawaiian waters. Their remarkable recovery from near extinction has become one of conservation’s greatest success stories.
Yet another marine mammal native to Hawai‘i is facing a very different future. Hawai‘i’s endangered false killer whales—despite their name, members of the dolphin family rather than true whales—are declining in both numbers and health. Fewer than 140 individuals remain in the unique island-associated population that calls the main Hawaiian Islands home. New research has revealed that some animals are losing extraordinary amounts of weight, raising concerns about whether they are finding enough food to survive.
“This is a small population. There’s less than 140 individuals left, and they’re slowly declining,” said Jens Currie, Chief Scientist at Pacific Whale Foundation (PWF), PhD candidate in the Marine Biology Graduate Program, and lead author of the study.
“We’re losing about five to six animals per year, and they’re on track for functional extinction within my lifetime if this trend continues.”
The seven-year study brought together scientists from Pacific Whale Foundation, the Marine Mammal Research Program at the University of Hawai‘i’s Institute of Marine Biology, and Japan’s Okinawa Churashima Foundation. Researchers tracked 68 false killer whales—roughly half of the remaining population—between 2019 and 2025 using dronebased photogrammetry. Published in Endangered Species Research, the project is the first comprehensive effort to monitor body mass and physical condition.
Among the study’s most alarming findings was a whale that lost approximately 500 pounds—about 28 percent of its body weight—in just 10 weeks.
“It wasn’t just that it looked skinny,” Currie said. “It had lost 500 pounds, a quarter of its body weight.”
Researchers first noticed unusually thin animals during a severe marine heatwave in 2020, when warmer waters disrupted the ocean food web. False killer whales feed on large pelagic fish such as ahi, mahi-mahi, ono and aku. Scientists believe warming waters may be making prey harder to find, forcing whales to travel farther and burn more energy searching for food.
“What we think we saw was patchier prey,” Currie said. “Instead of traveling 20 miles to find food, they may have had to travel 40 miles.”
Unlike humpback whales, which naturally gain and lose large amounts of weight during migration, false killer whales are year-round residents of Hawaiian waters and are not adapted to dramatic swings in body condition.
“We’re losing about five to six animals per year, and they’re on track for functional extinction.”
The study also highlights concerns about fishing pressure. False killer whales rely on many of the same fish targeted by commercial and recreational fisheries. Previous research has shown that roughly 30 percent of the population bears evidence of hooking or entanglement, while stranded animals have been found with fishing hooks in their stomachs.
Scientists say the animals face a combination of threats, including warming oceans, reduced prey availability, fisheries interactions, and the challenges that come with being a very small population.
“When populations get this small, genetic diversity becomes a concern,” Currie explained. “You have fewer breeding individuals. Female false killer whales also reach menopause and only reproduce during a limited portion of their lives, and they have long calving intervals. That means the population recovers very slowly, even if conditions improve.”
“This study is a critical step in understanding whether prey limitation is driving the extinction risk for these whales,” Currie said. “Our findings suggest that many individuals are living on a thin metabolic margin.”
To measure the whales’ condition, researchers used drones equipped with precision imaging technology. The team then partnered with the Okinawa Churashima Foundation in Japan, where false killer whales in human care were scanned using advanced
Article continues on Page 4.
Volume 3, Number 2 FREE July/August, 2026
A false killer whale , becoming increasingly rare, takes a leap off the coast of Maui. Photo credit: Pacific Whale Foundation.
A Pacific Whale Foundation researcher photographs a false killer whale.
Lahaina Wildfire Survivor Auntie Val Celebrates Her New Home
By Cindy Schumacher
Attending the home dedication and blessing ceremony in Lahaina honoring wildfire survivor Auntie Valerie Ho‘opai was extraordinary and heartwarming. Auntie Val is able to return home through the support of Ho‘ōla iā Mauiakama Long Term Recovery Group (Ho‘ōla iā LTRG), Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS), Cajudoy Construction, and many community partners.
The dedication marked a milestone in Lahaina’s long-term recovery, as families continue their journey toward healing, stability, and home. More than 150 project partners, friends, family and community supporters, including Mayor Richard Bissen, gathered recently to celebrate.
The event program included welcoming remarks and partner acknowledgements; a meet-and-greet circle with partners and the ‘ohana; words from Auntie Val; remarks from Mayor Bissen; prayer, hymn, and gift presentation by MDS; a mō ka piko ceremony with pule and opening of the lei; and a blessing by Bishop Tausinga Hafoka of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The dedication concluded with entry and a tour of the home.
“After almost three years away from Lahaina, I kept praying and hoping for a miracle,” said Auntie Val. “Today, that miracle became real as Milo and I were welcomed home. This home is more than we could have ever asked for, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who supported us, believed in this project and helped make this day possible. We are forever grateful.”
“Ho’ōla iā LTRG is a nonprofit organization supporting survivors of the August 2023 Maui wildfires
through coordinated long-term recovery efforts,” explained Rhonda Alexander-Monkres, Ho’ōla iā Executive Director. “We focus on disaster case management, stabilization support, volunteer coordination, and rebuilding assistance to help families move toward stability by returning home. Auntie Val’s dedication is
especially meaningful, as it is the first home furnished through our House to Home Program. This program helps wildfire survivors furnish and set up their homes after rebuild completion, so that families can return home with the basic items needed to resume everyday routines.”
Alexander-Monkres continued, “Also, this blessing represents so much more than the completion of a house. It reflects the love, volunteer service and commitment of so many people who have walked alongside Lahaina families on the long road to recovery. We extend the biggest mahalo to all of the generous nonprofit, faithbased, governmental and community partners, and everyone who helped make this new home construction project possible.”
For Ho‘ōla LTRG and its partners, each completed home represents another step forward in Lahaina’s longterm recovery. To date, the nonprofit organization and its partners have completed four homes in Lahaina, although other homes have been built by different organizations as well.
The team works with homeowners to review their needs, connect available resources, and explore rebuild support.
Cash donations for Ho‘ōla LTRG’s House to Home Program are being accepted through the Maui Pono Foundation. To donate, visit www.mauiponofoundation.org/ waystodonate.
Those interested in supporting the rebuilding effort through services, building materials, contractor discounts, or financial contributions should contact Rhonda AlexanderMonkres of Ho‘ōla LTRG at (808) 298-6673 or email rhonda@ mauilongtermrecovery.org.
Owner-occupied single-family homeowners whose homes were destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire, and who are uninsured or underinsured, are encouraged to apply for disaster case management services through Ho‘ōla iā LTRG at www. mauilongtermrecovery.org.
Don Rheinheimer, MDS Project Coordinator, said the organization restores hope by coordinating volunteers to rebuild homes for disaster survivors and thanked Sacred Hearts Church and Catholic Charities for supporting volunteers with housing and meals. Got to mds.org for info.
Cajudoy Construction, LLC, a Maui-based, women-owned construction company, serves as construction manager. Along with their private projects, they help guide the construction process with care, coordination, and local expertise. Owner Brandy Cajudoy concluded, “It is a blessing to support wildfire survivors as they rebuild and return home in Lahaina.We are grateful for all those who continue to support Maui’s long-term recovery, and we welcome sponsors, funders, donors, and volunteers as more families move toward rebuilding and returning.” For information, visit online www.cajudoy. com, or call (808) 276-3013. Y
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Ho‘ōla iā LTRG, MDS, Cajudoy Construction, and friends all celebrate Auntie Val’s new home. Photos by Cindy Schumacher.
Auntie Val shares her joy and appreciation
Venturing Into Downtown Lahaina
Almost three years after the Lahaina fire, I finally ventured into downtown. Even after living in West Maui for 28 years, I found myself struggling to remember what once stood there. The visit stirred emotions I hadn’t quite expected, it was a somber experience.
Scattered reminders remain: a burned-out gas station where I used to fill my tires with air, a lone bank sign standing near where the building is long gone and many more. Miraculously, Maria Lanakila Church survived.
The Banyan Tree thrives. Beyond clearing almost all destroyed commercial buildings and rebuilding a handful of homes in downtown Lahaina, progress feels slow. Many roads have reopened and are being repaved, and mostly tourists quietly drive through to witness the devastation.
There are hopeful signs. The harbor has reopened, surfers have returned, and life is slowly reappearing. But if rebuilding takes only 10 years as was predicted, I’ll be pleasantly surprised. ~ Eric T. Richter, Publisher
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Tarot
Photo Credit: Pacific Whale Foundation
Helping False Killer Whales Avoid Extinction
Article continued from Page 1.
3D imaging technology. Comparing those scans with drone measurements allowed researchers to estimate weight within approximately three percent accuracy.
“This level of precision allows us to pinpoint exactly when and where these whales are struggling, which is key for directing conservation efforts,” said Lars Bejder, director of the Marine Mammal Research Program at UH Mānoa and a coauthor of the study.
While false killer whales are found throughout tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide, Hawai‘i’s population is unique. Over thousands of years, these animals evolved to live around the main Hawaiian Islands and are genetically and behaviorally distinct from other populations.
“The species as a whole is fine,” Currie said. “It’s the population that is home to Hawai’i that is struggling. A very unique part of the Hawaiian Islands is at risk of becoming extinct ...Unfortunately, not a lot of people know about the endangered population of false killer whales...You try and tell somebody there’s a false killer whale population that’s struggling, and their first question is, ‘What is a false killer whale?’”
Regulators Could Play a Key Role; Cultural Aspects & What You Can Do
Researchers say part of the solution may require stronger support from lawmakers and resource managers. Scientists say robust management of pelagic fish stocks and informed policy decisions will be essential to the species’ longterm survival.
Also, the study findings carry cultural significance: “Hawaiian culture has been losing many kūpuna, elders who carry the libraries of knowledge in cultural practices,” said Ka‘apuni, Cultural Advisor at Pacific Whale Foundation. “Losing our native population of false killer whales removes even more knowledge from our islands and our history. We cannot afford to lose any more pieces of Hawai‘i.”
Researchers stress that recovery is still possible. Residents and visitors can help by learning more about Hawai’i’s endangered false killer whale. You can also sign a petition to support strengthening protections. Go to: https://protectesa.good.do/hawaiianfalsekillerwhale/SaveFKW/ to sign.
Book Challenges Lahaina Fire Status Quo
Author,
Maui County Charter Commissioner and Director of Maui Community Investigation, Paul Deslauriers has released How the Lahaina Inferno Sparked a Global Awakening: Quantum Grassroots Development for Systemic Change
According to Deslauriers, when the 2023 fires devastated Lahaina, they did more than destroy a town— it exposed something far deeper —not just about the catastrophe but about how energy waves operate… how narratives are shaped… and how reality itself functions.
His group became a repository for community-sourced evidence, forensic collections, and firsthand accounts. Deeper questions emerged—challenging official narratives and opening the door to a broader inquiry of advanced energy-based technologies.
Through direct access to source material, linked via QR codes, you are invited to examine the data for yourself and draw your own conclusions. More than a story about a fire, Deslauriers says it is about awakening awareness—and the power of aligned individuals to reshape the world. Available at Amazon, and MauiCommunityInvestigation.org
Unknown Eater Discovers Yummy Fish At Good Prices In Kihei
By The Unknown Eater
After a morning tennis session followed by a refreshing swim in the ocean, my spouse and I arrived at the Paia Fish Market in Kihei shortly after opening at 11 a.m.
Hungry and ready for lunch, we were greeted by the restaurant's laid-back atmosphere and menu packed with local favorites.
To start, we ordered the fried calamari. Unlike the typical rings served at many restaurants, these were long, tender strips of calamari lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp. The generous portion was served on a bed of fresh romaine lettuce alongside both cocktail and tartar sauce. The calamari was tender inside, crunchy outside, and disappeared quickly.
For our main course, we both chose sandwiches from the restaurant's "Charbroiled Burgers" section, although we opted to skip the bun. Diners can choose from grilled ono, mahi-mahi, snapper, chicken, or a traditional cheeseburger. We selected the snapper and were impressed by the generous portion of fish served on each plate.
The snapper was grilled perfectly—moist, flaky, and seasoned just enough to allow the fresh fish flavor to shine. Accompanying the fish were
The Art of Chocolate Hawaiian Style
shredded Monterey Jack cheese, fresh tomato slices, and coleslaw. Without the bun, the toppings created a satisfying fish-and-salad combination that felt both hearty and fresh.
We also ordered a side of home potatoes. These thick-cut grilled potatoes were lightly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and soft in the center. They paired nicely with the fish and rounded out the meal. Fries are also available for those looking for a more traditional accompaniment.
One of the most impressive aspects of the meal was the value. At around $15, the charbroiled fish sandwich offers a substantial serving of fresh local fish at a price that is becoming increasingly rare. The Paia Fish Market first opened in the North Shore town of Paia and has since expanded its popularity with locations in Kihei, as well as on Oahu (Waikiki and Kailua), and Kauai. Despite its growth, the restaurant continues to deliver the simple formula that made it successful: fresh fish, generous portions, reasonable prices, and casual island hospitality.
Whether you're coming off the beach, finishing a workout, or simply craving fresh local seafood, Paia Fish Market remains one of Maui's reliable go-to spots for a satisfying meal.
What Maui And Summer Teach Us About Slowing Down
By Jonathan Yudis
One of the first lessons Maui teaches us is that life doesn't always move according to our schedule. The mainland has its clocks. Maui has its rhythm.
Here, traffic slows because someone stopped to admire a rainbow. A single lane can become two miles of patience after a fender bender on the Pali. Construction crews work on island time, and there always seems to be another stretch of road work—and someone holding a "Slow" or "Stop" sign beside a truck in the middle of the road. The checkout line at Mana Foods—or even Walmart—pauses while friends catch up, ask about each other's families, and “talk story.”
And somehow ... life goes on. At first, visitors sometimes become frustrated. They glance at their watches. They wonder why everything takes so long.
But if they stay long enough, something remarkable begins to happen.
They slow down too.
Perhaps that's one of Maui's greatest gifts.
We live in a world that constantly tells us to hurry up, get going, and keep scrolling. More emails. More meetings. More notifications. More deadlines. We race from one obligation to the next as though our worth is somehow measured by our speed and efficiency.
Yet nature has never been in a rush. When was the last time the wind arrived late? The waves arrive on the shore exactly when they're meant to. The sun never races to set. Even the ancient banyan trees have spent generations teaching us that the strongest things in life grow slowly.
Summer has a way of reminding us of this. Kids on the beach don't measure a perfect day by how many waves they jump or sandcastles they build. They remember the tide pools they explored and the laughter they shared for no reason with the people they love.
Whenever life begins to feel overwhelming, I've found one simple practice that always helps.
I simply slow down my breathing.
One long, gentle inhale.
Followed by an even slower exhale.
Almost immediately, our bodies begin to remember that we are safe. Our hearts settle. Our minds become clearer. Nothing outside of us may have changed—but everything inside of us does.
Maybe that's the true meaning of Island Time.
It's not about being late. It's about being present.
Here on Maui, time isn't measured only in hours and minutes. It's measured in tides, sunsets, conversations that weren't planned, and memories that linger long after summer ends.
This month, wherever you find yourself, give yourself permission to slow down.
The world can wait a few moments.
Perhaps Island Time isn't about losing time at all.
Perhaps it's about finding ourselves again.
Hawaiian Themes Blended With Science,
Keiki Experience Innovating Today, Inspiring Tomorrow
By Cindy Schumacher
The Harrison and Helen Miyahira STEM Center at Maui High School recently hosted a week-long event organized by Maui Economic Development Board’s (MEDB) STEMworks™ Innovators Summer Camp program. Camp Kauwela, named after the Hawaiian word for summer, is a place for middle school students to learn, grow, and explore. It blends STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education with Hawaiian culture. Using 3-D printers, Tinkercad, and Microbit coding, 38 middle-school students and nine high-school STEM experts produced 14 Hawaiian-themed projects done over a period of five days, with a showcase held for visitors on the last day.
STEMworks is about educating keiki for the betterment of Maui communities.
Photo by Cindy Schumacher
“Camp Kauwela is based on scaffolding mentoring, a teaching method in which a mentor breaks complex skills into smaller steps, providing support until the mentee grows more confident while completing tasks above their current skill level,” explained Leslie Wilkins, MEDB President & CEO. “Together, the younger students are learning from the older students how to use these tools to improve our community.”
Lalaine Pasion, STEMworks Program Specialist, shared, “Through hands-on learning, Camp Kauwela students developed skills, connected with local stories, and deepened their understanding of Hawai‘i’s land and people. They also toured UH Maui College to explore future career pathways. More than anything, they left with a stronger sense of identity, heritage, and the power they have to make a difference, all while exploring how science and technology can help shape a better future for Maui.”
Pasion continued, “One of the best parts of Camp Kauwela is seeing young people grow into leaders. As a STEM mentor, our role is to give students the tools, resources, and opportunities to succeed, but it also starts with building trust and believing in their potential. I love that our high school student STEM leaders are creating lessons and helping teach their younger peers.”
WE PROTECT
Maui High School leader, Sophia T. said, “Being a girl in STEM deeply impacted my confidence and expanded my perspective in STEM education and careers. It also inspired me to uplift and empower other students in the field.”
Alexis K, a middle school student shared, “Our Hawaiian word was kupuna (elder). We were able to express a deeper pride and understanding of our heritage as we worked on our project titled Medminder, a wrist device using Microbits to help kupuna stay healthy by reminding them when it’s time to take their medication.”
In another group of participants, Madison S. used a 3-D printer to make a ‘Charger Weight’. “Our Hawaiian word was malama (to care),” she said. “Our team designed a weighted stand to keep phones and small devices from falling or breaking while charging. I also learned about different careers and how to work together on challenges and share creative solutions that can make an impact for our community. Thank you, MEDB!”
Pasion added, “Working in teams, campers identified real-world problems, brainstormed solutions, and mapped out their designs to present their innovations to family and friends. Mahalo to all our partners, volunteers, and supporters who made this year’s Camp Kauwela so special.” More information about STEMworks and upcoming summer programs can be found online at https://www.stemworkshawaii.org/.
July 3
MAUI COMMUNITY BAND from 5–6pm at the Lower Level Performance Area, The Shops At Wailea. The free community concert will feature local favorites and seasonal classics. theshopsatwailea.com
July 8
MARYA STARK - World-renowned vocalist & folk musician performs in Pāia, Wed. July 8, 6pm. Tickets: maui-yoga.com/marya-stark
July 8
BROTHER NOLAND is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
July 10 – July 26
WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S LONG LOST First Play (abridged). A comedy that includes comic violence, mild innuendo, bawdy humor, and the occasional rude word. Forewarned! The premise: An ancient manuscript proves to be the long-lost first play written by Shakespeare. Multiple performances at the historic Iao Theatre, Wailuku. Check mauionstage.com
July 11
KALANI PE’A EIA LĀ 10 Year Anniversary Concert ~ Fourtime Grammy Award-winning
Events Calendar
July 18, Sept. 25
William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (abridged) promises comedy and baudiness in Wailuku July 10-26.
July 23
DEEP WISDOM: A Film Journey Underwater with the Humpback Whales. World premiere of a breathtaking 30-minute underwater film from Whale Wise Productions, a Maui-based team of ocean lovers, naturalists, and storytellers dedicated to sharing the wonder of humpback whales and the ocean they call home .7:30pm at ProArts Playhouse, Kihei. Tickets: proartsmaui.org
July 30 & 31
proudly announces a milestone in his career, celebrating a decade of recording Hawaiian, contemporary, and soul music. 7:30pm at ProArts Playhouse, Kihei. Tickets: proartsmaui.org
July 15
Jeff Peterson is featured at the Slack Key Show at Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www.Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
July 17
KE KANI HONE O WAILEA ~ The signature concert series returns 5:30–7pm, featuring Henry Kapono, Grammy-nominated, Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award-winning artist. At The Shops At Wailea. theshopsatwailea.com
Succulent Dish Gardens & More
At the Sunday Market, Old Kahului Shopping Center 4pm-8pm
Rhonda J. Felix 808.205.8302 www.gardenmaui.com Or call for private viewing!
2026
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
July 22
WAILEA WEDNESDAYS ~ Kason Gomes performs 4:30–6pm at The Shops At Wailea. Free! theshopsatwailea.com
July 22
SONNY LIM is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www.Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
ALI WONG LIVE ~ Enjoy awardwinning actress, comedian, writer, and producer known for her breakout Netflix stand-up specials “Baby Cobra,”“Hard Knock Wife,” and the Emmy-nominated “Don Wong” as well as “Ali Wong: Single Lady.” Mature subject matter. 7pm at the Castle Theater, MACC. Tickets: mauiarts.org
August 12
KEN EMERSON is featured at the Slack Key Show at Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
August 12
JOHN CRUZ Island Style Series. 7pm at ProArts Playhouse, Kihei. Tickets: proartsmaui.org
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Visit us every Sunday at the Maui Sunday Market in Kahului and at many Maui events. Stop by, say aloha, and find your next favorite plant!
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Page 8 Maui Pulse July/August,
Hawaiian music artist Kalani Pe’a
Events Calendar
Is Maui ready for comedian and actress Ali Wong? See her July 30 & 31 at the MACC in Kahului. Visit mauiarts.org.
August 15 & 16
CELLULAR REGENERATION
TECHNIQUE with Gina Kim, DC. Aug. 15 & 16, 9-5. Learn to release emotional, energetic, spiritual and physical issues, and live in bodymind-spirit balance. $300 paid by 7/17/$400 after. Registration deadline Aug. 10. 808-871-6996. www.celluarregeneration.org
August 19
NATHAN AWEAU is featured at the Slack Key Show at Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
August 26
BRAD BORDESSA AND KEALA LINDSEY are featured at the Slack Key Show at Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858
ONGOING EVENTS
WEDNESDAY FARMERS MARKET~ 7-11am. Free Bountiful Basket Giveaway Every Week. Supporting Maui’s Organic Farmers. 10 Kupaoa St., Pukalani.
CELTIC MUSIC TWICE EVERY SUNDAY Hamish’s ‘Maui Celtic Radio Show’ 8-10am & 5-7pm on KAKU 88.5fm Maui. No signal?online at https://www.akaku.org/ kaku-88-5-fm/
BAHA’I FAITH ~ Do you yearn for a community that is openhearted, loving, resilient, empowering and a haven of peace ? Do you long for a community that is dedicated to awakening the energies latent in the human soul and channeling them toward the betterment of our community and the world ? We welcome you to check out our community and explore together how we might nurture a world where everyones spiritual reality can flourish. Every Sunday 10 to 11:30 Maui Baha’i Center, 3574 Kekahi Pl. Makawao. Videos music refreshments. Questions text (808) 281-0866 or bahai.org. Free of charge.
GEORGE KAHUMOKU’S SLACK KEY SHOW: Every Wednesday. Napili Kai Beach Resort July Artists: Led Kaapana, Brother Noland, Jeff Peterson, Sonny Lim and Stephen Inglis. August Artists: Led Kaapana, Ken Emerson, Nathan Aweau, Brad Bordessa & Keala Lindsey Tickets: www.SlackKeyShow.com/ show-schedule or 808-669-3858
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
ART HAPPY HOUR, 3-6PM Fridays at The Village Galleries, near Bank of Hawaii next to Lahaina Cannery Mall. Meet guest artists and enjoy refreshments! (808) 661-4402
FREE LIVE MUSIC most nights at South Maui Gardens, Kihei. Enjoy food from 10-plus food trucks, artisan and farmer’s market, special events and more, all in a laid-back, family friendly atmosphere. Visit southmauigardens.com.
Maui Pulse calendar listings are 40 cents a word. Send to Maui Pulse@aol.com before Friday, August 21 to be included in our September edition.
Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives
By Barry Wurst II
Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s “Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” (2010) is a handful, both to say aloud and absorb. This one-of-a-kind wonder from Thailand is a fantasy, family drama and nature meditation. It’s also among the most hypnotic, original and gloriously unpredictable works of pure cinema I’ve ever encountered.
When we meet Uncle Boonmee (played by Thanapat Saisaymar), he’s an elderly man living alone in Thailand, being visited by his family. Boonmee is in poor health and believes in reincarnation, a faith that becomes literal over the course of the film. One night, during dinner with his family, Boonmee’s late wife Huay (played by Natthakarn Aphaiwong) materializes, not to frighten him, but to continue a conversation. There’s also Boonmee’s long-lost son, Boonsong, who appears as a “monkey ghost” with glowing red eyes.
Things get stranger from there, though it never becomes a horror film or intends to frighten. Here is a film about the spirit world, not as something to dread but as a thing of wonder, connecting us to nature, our past and true selves. The tone is everything, as Weerasethakul wants viewers to get lost in the wonder and possibilities of his story.
It’s also very slow, which means some will abandon ship long before the notorious scene with an amorous catfish (you read that right). If you’ve read this far, then you probably have the patience for Weerasethakul’s film and will find yourself hypnotized, if not altogether enraptured. This isn’t magical realism but magic as it exists in a world of spirits, which no one in the film ever questions.
The cinematography is gorgeous and observant, capturing scenes of beauty and stillness. Weerasethakul’s film, which won the Palm D’Or (best picture) award at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival, is cinema as meditation. Weerasethakul hasn’t created something self-consciously weird or off outing but, nevertheless, true cinematic expression. In the best way, it’s challenging, personal and always dazzling.
There are characters and a narrative to latch onto but watching this is more akin to witnessing a painting in motion than a conventional movie. Outside of Ingmar Bergman or Yasujiro Ozu, few contemporary filmmakers ever attempt something like this. The visual effects are simple but startling, and there’s almost no music, just the ambient sounds of the forest outside Boonmee’s home.
Weerasethakul made me consider how films can be conduits for people who are long gone, whose work we can rediscover every time a movie begins. After all, aren’t characters in movies just sprits who fade in and out of focus, coming to life with every rewatch?While it floats on and off streaming channels, “Uncle Boonmee…” is currently available to borrow from the Hawaii Public Library. For anyone who considers themselves an “adventurous” filmgoer and cinephile, this is an essential and unforgettable trip to take. (Barry Wurst is the founder of the Hawaii Film Critics Society and teaches film classes at University of Hawaii Maui College).
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When You Can’t Always Get What You Want...
By Elena Lissone
Hi, it’s Elena, your self esteem increaser. We are into summer now on Maui, getting a little much needed rain too.
I had a rough month in May, and delivered myself much needed compassion during the struggles.
I kept reminding myself that everything passes, so that helped, and things turned out positive. Contacting spirit, I also turned to prayer which paradoxically empowered me in letting go and accepting the realities of life during this very trying time.
High self esteem doesn’t come along when trying to control what is. Learning that reality is simply what is, and not what we wish it were or what it could be, or what it used to be, is in itself self esteem producing.
As the song says “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometime, you just might find, you get what you need.” And that’s the way it went. As the month went on, I did my share of yammering on the stage of self-pity and forgave myself all the while.
Life was giving me a pounding. I mustered up some grace to take it as it comes. Self esteem suffers when we can’t accept our current state of being. I was grateful to notice how screwed up I felt.
I also knew it would be okay in the long run. What’s a month in the bigger picture of things? Resolution occurred simply costing some time, energy, and cash. I was lucky to have had all three. The overall trials of life can become exhausting. I think I was mainly confused with my current state as it was kicking my a**. It took a lot of strength to recognize my own capacity for endurance. You can do this by stopping the action before letting your mind overwhelm you. In all fairness, there will be frustrations and perceived failings as you hold on with God-given strength. It’s always better to count your blessings than your misgivings. When
we examine deeper, we usually find more blessings than the negative conjurings. Sometimes we just have to dig further inside to notice this. Stay the course. Forgive yourself and others, for we are all imperfect beings. That’s called being human. Stay humble and try to find the beauty in all. Best of times ahead. Aloha for your journey.
Hale Kau Kau
Seeking Volunteers
The month of May was the most monumental and challenging month for Maui’s Hale Kau Kau in its 35 year history, announced President Barry Rosenfeld. 3475 meals were delivered to Kapuna and those with disabilities, an average of 112 per night.
Onsite, in Kihei, 2625 meals were provided to anyone with food insecurity, no questions asked. That amounted to an average of 85 dinners every night. This is the largest monthly number ever provided to both homebound and onsite.
With increasing needs in the community, the organization is requiring more volunteers to assist in its outreach. Kitchen helpers work three hours and delivery drivers need to allot 2 ½ hours. The organization is looking for people to volunteer 2-4 times monthly. Call or email (808) 446-0799 or brosenfeld1@gmail.com) to learn more. Y
Clarity & Power with Helen
“When I have a difficult decision or concern, I call Helen. She helps me ‘see’ through ‘real eyes’ what resonates with who I am at the soul level. I find joy is an experience of path intertwining with the soul. Helen shines a light that helps me see both.” - William Greenleafl
Text/call (808) 276-4859 or email haikuhelen@gmail.com. Let’s chat! Also: E-mail Promotion visit haikuhelen.com
am Located in the Pauwela Cannery | Next to Baked on Maui | 375 W. Kuiaha Road, Haiku (808) 793-0051
Discovering A New World Of Mangoes
By Jayanti Nand, Natureworks Nursery
I’ve loved mangoes for as long as I can remember. After more than 30 years of growing fruit trees on Maui, I thought I knew mangoes pretty well. Like many people in Hawai‘i, I grew up appreciating the wonderful varieties already here and believed that was simply what mangoes had to offer. Then I discovered there was an entire world of mangoes I had never experienced. Over the past several decades, passionate mango enthusiasts in Florida have quietly transformed the world of mango breeding. They didn’t create genetically modified trees or manipulate genetics in a laboratory. Instead, they planted thousands of naturally pollinated seedlings and patiently observed them for years.
Nature created the diversity. Their role was to patiently observe thousands of seedlings over many years and carefully select those that consistently proved to be truly
exceptional. Out of well over a thousand seedlings, only a few dozen ultimately earned a name. When I first began tasting these new selections, I realized just how much diversity exists within the world of mangoes.
Varieties like Lemon Zest and Orange Sherbet revealed an entirely new range of flavors, with bright citrus notes that surprised me the first time I tasted them.
Others stood out for their remarkable productivity, disease resistance, or growth habit. The Vietnamese variety Cac, for example, has shown great disease resistance and may prove to be a good choice for some of Hawai‘i’s wetter growing areas.
Even my wife, Naïma, has found one of her favorites in Ceci Love, a compact tree with exceptional fruit quality that’s well suited for smaller gardens.
At NatureWorks Nursery, we’ve made it a priority to help introduce and propagate these exceptional mango varieties.
With every graft, every orchard visit, and every year of observation, we’re learning which varieties are best suited for our islands’ diverse climates and elevations.
I truly believe we’re standing at the beginning of a new chapter in mango growing across Hawai‘i.
As more of these outstanding varieties become available, growers will have more choices than ever before; not just for incredible flavor, but for trees that are better matched to where they live and how they grow. The future of mangoes isn’t just about introducing new varieties.
It’s about raising the standard of what we can grow, what we can taste, and what we can expect from mangoes across Hawai‘i.
I believe that over the coming decades, these remarkable selections will transform the culture of mango growing and we’re excited to help make that future possible!
Glimpses Of Lahaina
S CATTER A SHES M AUI
Makani Ash Scattering & Kokua
Full-service Ash Scattering ceremonies on Maui. We honor your loved one with heartfelt, customized ceremonies. Whether simple or elaborate, each moment is handled with reverence and care. We can assist you from anywhere with your loved one’s final wish to be scattered on Maui. Call for details.
Some of what we offer:
• Unattended ash scatterings
• Pet scatterings
• Multi-person memorials
• Private residence ceremonies & boat charters
• Floral tributes, musicians, dove releases, personalized song
• Custom puolo & full coordination
“Brenda made my brother’s final resting space so special. The way she wrapped his ashes, the music, the setting… it was everything he wished for and more.”
“She handled everything. We scattered my husband and our dog Mark together—his best friend. From the music to the doves to the lei, it was breathtaking. All we had to do was show up. Five stars.”
ScatterAshesMaui.com info@scatterashesmaui.com 808-298-3473
A sign on the fence at Banyan Tree Park warns No Trespassing for the destroyed King Kamehameha III Elementary School, which has reopened in modules near Kapalua Airport.
Amida Buddha at Lahaina Jodo Mission intact, guarding the damaged grounds.
The famous Lahaina Banyan Tree is thriving while the Old Courthouse awaits reconstruction. No bank, no 24 Hour ATM.
How To Keep Your Computer Healthy
Hints To Protect From Viruses, Malware And Scams
By George Gordon
Hey, let’s chat about keeping your computer healthy! With all the viruses, malware, and scams floating around, it’s a bit of a minefield for your computer, especially if you’ve got your bank accounts, credit card info, and other sensitive stuff stored on it.
But don’t worry, there are some cool ways to shield your info and fend off these attacks. One awesome tool is a VPN, which can help protect your computer from anyone trying to hack into it. It’s called a virtual private network, and some are free, while others might cost you a bit.
Basically, when you’re online, you’ll first visit their site to grab info and send info, and they’ll peek at it to make sure no one can steal it. And when someone sends you info, they’ll check it out before it hits your computer. This app or program can slow your computer down a bit, but it’s still super protective.
There are also other programs called virus protection programs, like Norton antivirus, McAfee antivirus, and AVG, which I really like. If you spot a virus on your computer screen and it pops up asking you to call an 800 number, don’t do it!
There’s a program called Malware Bytes that you can download for free and delete the virus for you. After that, I use AVG to keep an eye out for any hidden viruses that lurk behind.
I’ve worked on tons of computers, and over the years, I’ve found older ones that have their hard drives packed with pictures, documents, and music so bad that it takes 10 minutes just to get to a desktop.
The best way to keep your computer running fast is to clean up your hard drive at least once a year. To do that, back up all your pictures, documents, and music, onto an external hard drive then delete everything off the computer’s hard drive.
After that, do a fresh reinstall of Windows. Finally, transfer all your pictures, documents, and music onto the new windows hard drive. This will give your computer a turbo boost, almost like it was brand new. Also, things like videos and photos can take up a lot of space.
To keep your computer healthy and speedy, consider buying an external USB hard drive and copying all your pictures onto it. There are tons of ways to speed up your computer and keep it in tip-top shape, but it would take forever to list them. If you need any help, reach out to me at mauimist@aol.com or give me a call at (808) 280-5055.
Classified Listings
PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT & Enrichment! Private classes Voice, Dance, Acting. Life Coach. Rosalind (808) 572-1000 Or (808) 283-4593 text.
HALE KAU KAU is seeking volunteers! Help deliver meals to the homes of kapuna and folks with disabilities and/or food insecurity. Cobtact (808) 875-8754 or halekaukau@rcchawaii.org.
HELP US THRIVE. Visit and tell our advertisers you saw them in the Maui Pulse!!
PSYCHIC READING ~ The Oracle (by donation) 808-463-0779 (text, please)
SPIRITUAL AWAKENING ADVENTURES: ActivateExplore-Transform your Body Mind and Spirit www. soulvoyageadventures. com (808) 264-0972 .
MARKET YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS practice or business in Maui Vision Magazine! Target your most likely prospects. New edition in early August! Act now! For info., text (808) 344-6195 or visit www.mauivision.net.
CLASSIFIED LISTINGS run 40 cents a word. Send your listing to MauiPulse@aol.com by Aug. 21 to get into the Sept. issue!
Crystals, Tarot Readings, Magical Treasures
Maui Mana Smoke Shop And Magical Emporium
Jewelry, Sage, Incense, Unique Gifts, Mystical Tools, Tarot Cards And More!
Huge selection of local glass pipes, water pipes, incense, vaporizers, dab rigs, largest selection of papers on the island.
• CBD • Legal Psychedelic Mushrooms, • Kratom Powder And Capsules • Kava Elixirs
3682 Baldwin Ave., Makawao, HI 96768 (Across from Casanova’s) • 808-298-0403
Target Market Maui’s Health and Fitness Community With An Ad or Listing in Maui Vision Magazine! Our Aug./Fall edition publishes August 4 and reaches up to 7500 readers interested in improving their health, longevity and happiness. Check it out! Call/text (808) 344-6195 Or (619) 993-3305 or visit us on the web: www.mauivision.net before Friday, July 17.
