FOCUS MAUI NUI

Acts of Love

Feb 12, 2020 | Community

Love is in the air! Assistance Dogs of Hawaii (ADH) is celebrating their 20^th anniversary — graduating over 100 service dogs to serve in the community — individually and in community outreach programs such as hospitals, courthouses, and child advocacy agencies across the state.

“We specialize in training service dogs for children and adults with limited mobility,” said Executive Director Mo Maurer. “We approach the matching process from both sides — client and dog — knowing the client’s expectations, then training the dog with additional tasks specifically for its human partner. The dogs learn over 90 commands and assist their partners by performing tasks such as opening doors, finding help when needed, and turning on and off lights. It has been amazing to see how the dogs really go above and beyond once they are placed with their partners—they seem to have a sixth sense about knowing what they need. Our upcoming ADH Annual Valentine’s Benefit Event on February 22nd makes this all possible plus placing Service Dogs with lifetime follow-up support.”

Over the years, ADH dogs have rescued their partners from drowning, as well as alert a family member during a life-threatening seizure. “Dogs are extremely intelligent and have so much untapped potential to help people in need,” Mauer explained. “We published the first study teaching dogs to detect life-threatening bacterial infections in humans. Their accuracy rate was incredible and shows this has the potential to save many lives. We have been invited to present these findings at an infectious disease conference in Europe later this year.”

Sharon Dahiquist, ADH Assistant Director said, “I feel so lucky to have a job that is so rewarding—to truly help make peoples’ lives better. Our service dogs have enhanced, extended, and in some cases saved the lives of their partners. When Hawaii resident Melanie Johnson was trapped in a house fire, her service dog ‘Freedom’ brought her the cordless phone, and later pulled open the door to let the firemen in”. Johnson exclaimed, “ I would not be alive today if it were not for Freedom. He is my hero!”

No One Fights Alone

Jan 15, 2020 | Community

Recently, the Maui Cancer Wellness Retreat (MCWR) for cancer survivors from Maui and Molokai was held at the Napili Kai Beach Resort. Following the Hawaiian opening ceremony officiated by Rev. John Hau’oli Tomoso, the three days focused on the retreat theme, ‘Healing Cancer from the Inside Out’. Led by Dr. Bridget Bongaard and a staff of healthcare professionals, MCWR, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was attended by 21 cancer survivors who all received scholarships to participate. Dr. Bongaard, a board-certified internal medicine physician with a post-doctoral fellowship in integrative medicine, designed the event to help cancer survivors, with any diagnosis, transform their lives into a new and better level of health and wellness.

“Integrative medicine looks at all angles to solve problems,” Bongaard explained. “My approach to wellness is a three-dimensional process, physical, emotional, and spiritual. When one has the power of information to make changes, the results become apparent quickly. Best of all, the ripple effect of building community, having support, and being able to care for ‘self’ is massive. It creates effective problem-solving and resilience strategies. It works to eliminate suffering while improving the physical, emotional, and spiritual quality of lives. We look forward to starting healing circles and to supporting each other as the journey — and more retreats –continue.”

A key MCWR presenter was board-certified Lifestyle Medicine physician, Dr. Irminne Van Dyken, who is also a trauma surgeon on Maui. Patrick Brault, a participant from Pukalani said, “Van Dyken’s presentation was relevant information to anyone with cancer. Her talk, “How to Restore the Physical Body to Heal” highlighted the importance of diet, nutrition, physical activity and the dangers of tobacco use and stress.” Attendee Ben Massenburg summarized the general feedback from all the MCWR participants, “With great teachers and fellow cancer survivors, we stood together and supported each other, learning techniques to create a more resilient spirit to promote healing.” A closing ceremony by Rev. Tomoso charged the cancer survivors to move forward in their healing journey. Attendee Rhett Ferguson concluded, “No one fights alone; this was never more evident than during this MCWR.”

Happy New Year 2020!

Jan 1, 2020 | Community

January 1 will mark not just a new year but will be the first day of the 20’s. Most consider the new decade will actually start in 2021 — the first year A.D was 1 and therefore any year ending in one marks the beginning of a decade.  However, it seems much easier to group the 20’s as a new decade.  How will you celebrate?

There is a tradition to make noise at the stroke of midnight to ‘ring’ in the new year. Enthusiasts will bang drums, ring bells, blow noise horns, sound sirens or simply pop off a champagne cork. This came about in many cultures around the world to chase away evil spirits. Fireworks were invented in the seventh century A.D. in China for that purpose. Here on Maui fireworks are a long-standing feature of New Year’s celebrations; please take care and use legal fireworks during the permitted hours.

In addition to the noisy tradition, it is a time to enjoy special New Year foods.  Japanese families will be gathering for Mochi pounding – the pounding of sweet mochi rice that has been soaked for days to turn into mochi balls. It is a community affair meant to bring peace and prosperity in the New Year.

Sashimi is also a New Year tradition in Hawaii that is believed to bring good luck. If you want an excuse for eating doughnuts, then consider them lucky! Some cultures believe that ring-shaped treats symbolize “coming full circle” which leads to good fortune.

Kissing someone at midnight is not just about showing affection but another respected tradition that brings good luck. It is thought to bring support to someone as they enter the vulnerable transitional period of a new year.

So as you plan to make noise, eat and be merry — Maui Economic Development Board Staff would like to be among the first to wish you “Hau’oli Makahiki Hou” and the very best for 2020 –  Happy New Year!

Christmas Wonder: The Overview Effect

Dec 25, 2019 | Community

It began 51 years ago. On Christmas Eve, 1968, the Apollo 8 astronauts, Air Force Col. Frank Borman, Navy Capt. James A. Lovell Jr., and Air Force Major William A. Anders, became the first humans to see the far side of the moon and the first to enter lunar orbit. They also became the first to see the Earth as a whole planet, which Anders captured in his famous Earthrise photo− making us aware of our planet’s splendor and vulnerability.

Author Frank White later used the term “Overview Effect” in a 1998 book of that title, to describe the astronauts’ reaction to seeing the entire Earth at once. White explained, “As reported by almost all astronauts, the effect of seeing our planet’s beauty and fragility during spaceflight produces a cognitive shift in awareness. In this state of mental clarity, the viewer becomes overwhelmed and awed by the size and magnificence of Earth, seeing it hanging in the void.”

Maui Economic Development Board has invited numerous astronauts to speak with students during the annual Student Space Exploration Day. Astronauts Dr. Leroy Chiao, Dr. Ed Lu, and Dr. Janet Kavandi are among those who have shared their spaceflight experiences and the Overview Effect with Maui youth in recent years.

About her time in space, Kavandi recalled, “Being in space has made me more aware of the impact of humanity on the Earth. It made me feel more responsible and caring about the sustainability of our planet, and the peace and love it generates.” Lu said, “I became more aligned with universal purpose. I looked back at the planet and was struck by its beauty and vulnerability. Seeing massive craters pressed into its crust by past bombardments, I co-founded the B612 Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to defense against asteroid impacts.” Chiao added, “Looking down at our beautiful world, I appreciated life more than ever. It made me reflect on what really is important. The grandeur of Planet Earth is mesmerizing. Seeing it from space made me want to be a steward of Earth. We, humanity, are on it together.”

As the New Year approaches, let us all take a moment, like our astronaut friends did, to reflect with admiration, gratitude and wonder for our planet Earth.

Yes, There is a Santa Paws!

Dec 4, 2019 | Community

Santa Paws brightened the spirits of the Maui community during the Maui Humane Society’s (MHS) second annual Holiday Pet Adoption and Wellness Fair. “I love being at the MHS at this time of year, taking photos with all the animals and their families!” Santa Paws exclaimed. “I love all animals! All my pets are from the shelter. Adoption is the most important thing you can do for an abandoned dog or cat, giving them a new life in a loving home, at Christmas and always.”

The MHS, a non-profit organization, has been in existence for 66 years and is the only open-admission animal shelter on Maui. Their mission is to protect and save the lives of Maui’s animals, accepting all in need, educating the community, and inspiring respect and compassion for all animals.

Steve Mackinnon, CEO of MHS, said, “We are thrilled to be able to provide these much needed services to our community, especially during the holiday season. We appreciate the support we receive throughout the year and this is our way of giving back to our community.”

Nancy Willis, MHS Director of Development and Marketing, added, “At the MHS we are proud of our programs and services. Working diligently to find new homes for Maui’s homeless animals, we encourage the community to check out our adoptable pets and learn more about the services we provide, including foster pet care. We envision the day when every animal on Maui will have a loving home and we dedicate ourselves to protecting and nourishing the human-animal bond which we feel makes for a better and kinder society.”

Maui resident Mark Simon said, “Five years ago for Christmas our family adopted Lily, our dog and best friend. Adopting a dog for a Christmas present is a memory we will never forget. Choosing Lily was a family event that presented the true meaning of the season: It is not about what you get; it is about what you give. Opening our hearts to pet adoption delivered this timeless message and we have remained MHS supporters throughout the years. A pet for Christmas is pure love!”

Making a Difference, Together

Nov 27, 2019 | Community

Each day of the week the Hale Kau Kau (House of Meals) program serves a hot meal to the hungry and the needy from their kitchen located at St. Theresa’s Church, 25 West Lipoa Street in Kihei. “During this season of Thanksgiving, I would like to share my gratitude to all the community members who help sustain the Hale Kau Kau program on a daily basis,” said the Reverend Monsignor Terrence A.M. Watanabe, pastor of St. Theresa Church and Hale Kau Kau Executive Director. “Working together makes such a difference and speaks volumes of how we are supposed to be involved with one another and caring for the needs of our community.”

Hale Kau Kau welcomes all who are in need of a hot, nutritious meal. They offer a wide range of delicious options, 365 days a year, including an entrée, salad, starch, dessert and drink. For the convenience of the diners, they have a number of picnic tables available, a sink for washing up, and the good company of all those who join them each day. The arrangement is win-win: all who need a meal and those who volunteer receive nurture for their bodies and nurture for their souls. A volunteer tourist from Wisconsin noted, “I am a big supporter of this program and when visiting Maui I want to help people.”

Hale Kau Kau was founded August of 1991 by a diverse group of South Maui individuals. Today, their mission, feeding with compassion and aloha, is to serve anyone who comes to their kitchen at meal-time. They deliver to ill and disabled homebound clients in South Maui, and distribute weekly food baskets and emergency food supplies to families in crisis.

Rev. Watanabe explained, “Sorting and stocking the pantry is a daily job for those who generously give of their time and cooking talents. Everyone in need is welcome and there is something for everyone to do and contribute. Individuals can become fundraisers, delivery drivers, or donors of money, food, goods and clerical services. Dinner is served Monday-Friday, 5-6pm; Weekends 4:30-5:30pm; and Thanksgiving and Christmas at 12 noon.”

Aloha Around the World

Oct 2, 2019 | Community

Keola and Moana Beamer, Hawaii’s First Music Couple, tour the world to present their unique vision of Hawaii’s cultural arts and to share aloha. Keola, a master musician and slack key artist, who earned a place on Billboard’s Top World Music Albums Chart, and Moana, renowned for her mastery of authentic hula dancing, bring life to the natural beauty and cultural awareness that makes Hawaii uniquely appealing.

“Since my husband and I began touring together, the value of connecting with different communities has been quite apparent to us,” said Moana. “Over time, it seems our work has opened numerous paths for sharing aloha around the world.”

Moana reflected, “One such path began as an opportunity to meet and work with Emmy-award-winning filmmaker Dr. Tom Vendetti on a film project called ‘The Quietest Place’. We hit it off and from there followed an invitation to participate in a film festival Vendetti had begun in Cambodia, where a large group of enthusiastic children prepared a hula performance to welcome us.”

“Keola wondered aloud what these children might also accomplish with a ukulele in their hands,” said Moana. “The instrument that many of us here in Hawaii have been blessed to grow up with—four strings, simple, portable, historically well-traveled, versatile. Perfect!”

The following year, the hotel that sponsored the Angkor Wat Film Festival had generously agreed to host the Beamer’s Ukulele Education Project, providing space for classes and meals for the children. Bringing teachers from their Aloha Music Camp, the Beamers’ taught 40 poverty-stricken children living in Cambodia how to play the ‘ukulele. The children are now performing concerts in Siem Reap. The Beamers’ hope to continue this effort, sharing the aloha spirit in Myanmar, as well as other places around the world.

“I am sure there can be no better outcome for those individuals who helped make it all possible,” Moana said. “But, best of all, for the children whose lives we were privileged to touch for a brief moment in time. It was one of those experiences that enlighten our sensibilities for a long time to come.”

Help When You Need It

Sep 4, 2019 | Community

On Maui since 1972, Mental Health America (MHA) of Hawaii has been a leading mental health education and advocacy organization. Dedicated to promoting wellness, MHA’s prevention programs are designed to improve the care and treatment of people living with mental illness and to reduce the stigma of it. “As we look ahead, the Maui office of MHA is gearing up the education side of our agency for a very busy year,” said Danielle Bergan, MHA Maui Community Coordinator. “We hope to expand mental health awareness in schools and community organizations and continue to advocate at the legislature for mental health on behalf of the community.”

Some of the programs available for youth and adults include Youth Suicide and Bullying Prevention, to combat bullying and suicide ideation amongst Hawaii’s youth. “It aims to teach youth how to recognize and intervene in a bullying situation and how to use suicide prevention tools,” said Bergan. “We will be conducting several of these two-hour trainings for our Maui intermediate and high schools throughout the year. We can also provide it for agencies that work with youth, including community and church groups.”

Youth Mental Health First Aid is an eight-hour public education program which introduces participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents. It builds understanding of the importance of early intervention and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. Additionally, there is a Mental Health First Aid program that is geared for adults.

“Especially for adults we offer ‘Live Your Life Well’,” Bergan explained. “This training is a one-hour mental wellness presentation about stress in everyday life and the workplace that includes a clinically tested program of 10 actions that can help to improve mental health. This is a great training for companies and organizations to help their employees better cope with stress.”

Bergan concluded, “We hope raising awareness of the issues and recognizing the signs of mental illness will bring insight to handling its challenges. It is a sign of courage, not weakness, to seek help.”

Aloha is Everything!

Aug 21, 2019 | Community

Rachael Ray, a successful Maui artist, was invited for the first time as a guest speaker at Maui Economic Development Board’s 3^rd annual Hawaii Small Business Conference (HSBC). “I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to make a lasting impression on the HSBC attendees about the importance of service with aloha in our island chain,” Ray said. “For my part, sharing aloha in my business permeates all my relationships and every canvas I paint.”

Ray, a self-taught artist who loves to paint with Rembrandt oils, can often be found talking story with customers and working in U’i, her Kahului Maui art gallery. A graduate of Baldwin High School, Ray remembers her early childhood on Molokai as the beginning of her appreciation for Hawaii’s majestic surroundings. “I find endless inspiration through the vibrant colors and movement in my Hawaiian landscape and from my love and respect for the ‘aina,” she said.

U’i Gallery, Ray’s 1500 square-foot space, offers not only her own artwork. An exclusive selection of hand-made products by other local craftsmen are offered in a price range for everyone. Through her hospitable aloha service and the gallery’s allure, Ray’s customers soon become family.

“I love talking story with our customers and getting to know them,” she explained. “While making a sale is important, even if they don’t purchase the first time, people come back when they are cared for, and the repeat business helps our bottom line year after year. Aloha is communicated. I call it ‘coconut wireless’.”

Ray uses Hawaiian values to support her life and her business. Believing in aloha-motivation over profit, she makes a conscious effort to have gallery visitors leave feeling good and welcomed with aloha. She believes this is a responsibility we each have to become better in our own personal and business relationships.

Ray concluded, “Growing up in Hawaii we were taught to give first and then receive. Aloha builds on itself. It is contagious, with extraordinary results. Aloha is imperative to our mental and physical health, our overall welfare, and to Hawaii’s business vitality. Live Aloha!”