Maui Pulse, March/April, 2026 edition

Whale Counts Holding Steady Amidst Change

By Taryn Kama

Each winter, something ancient stirs in us as the first humpback whales surface off Maui’s shores.

People gather along the coastline not just with binoculars, but with awe—scanning the horizon for breaching koholā (humpback whales) as if greeting returning relatives.

For many in Hawai‘i, whales are more than marine mammals; they are symbols of mystery, memory, and connection, weaving science, culture, and emotion into a shared seasonal ritual.

That deep human connection is one reason more than 1,000 community volunteers participate annually in whale counts across the islands. 30th Anniversary of Sanctuary Whale Count

While it’s peak season for the return of humpback whales to Maui, this winter also marked the 30th anniversary of Sanctuary Ocean Count—a milestone that reflects not only decades of data collection, but decades of devotion.

Launched in 1996, Sanctuary Ocean Count is the signature volunteer monitoring program of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, according to its website.

On designated days during peak season, trained volunteers gather at shoreline sites across Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Moloka‘i and Hawai‘i Island to record whale sightings, behaviors and calves in nearshore waters.

The Sanctuary’s Ocean Count operates statewide, while Pacific Whale Foundation’s Great Whale Count takes place at 12 sites on Maui and one on Lāna‘i.

The Great Whale Count began in 1995, and in 2018 the two programs began coordinating efforts. The most recent count was held Jan. 31. Volunteers counted 694 whales off of Maui Nui.

“These counts are snapshots,” said Jens Currie, chief scientist for Pacific Whale Foundation. They are invaluable for understanding seasonal presence and engaging community scientists, he said, and when paired with long-term research, they help define population trends.

Pacific Whale Foundation has studied humpback whales in Hawai‘i since 1981. That long-term commitment contributed to one of the most significant recent publications on North Pacific humpbacks: the 2024 update to SPLASH (Structure of Populations, Levels of Abundance and Status of Humpbacks).

Published in Royal Society Open Science as “Bellwethers of Change,” the peer-reviewed study brought together nearly 70 co-authors and analyzed the largest individual photo-identification dataset ever assembled for a cetacean population.

Researchers examined humpback trends from 2002 through 2021 across breeding grounds in Hawai‘i, Japan, Mexico and the Philippines, and feeding areas from Alaska to Russia.

The findings are complex. Whale Trends

North Pacific humpback whale numbers peaked in 2012 at an estimated 30,450 whales after decades of recovery following the end of commercial whaling. Following the 2014–2015 Pacific marine heatwave, researchers documented a significant decline. By 2021, the estimate had fallen to 22,198 whales.

“That doesn’t necessarily mean 8,000 whales died,” Currie cautioned. “It likely reflects a combination of factors, including changes in migration patterns and distribution.”

The marine heatwave, intensified by a strong El Niño cycle and broader climate trends, disrupted ocean productivity. Warmer waters reduced plankton growth, affecting krill and small schooling fish—key food for humpbacks.

Because humpbacks rely on building fat reserves in northern feeding grounds before migrating to Hawai‘i’s warm but nutrient-poor waters to breed and

“ They’re (false killer whales) are unique to Hawai‘i. If we lose them, we lose an irreplaceable part of our marine ecosystem. ”

give birth, nutritional stress can influence whether some whales migrate in a given year.

Researchers observed signs that the population shifted from a recovery phase to what the study describes as a climate-response phase, where environmental variability plays a larger role in abundance and distribution.

Preliminary findings from a second Hawai‘ifocused study under peer review suggest similar trends: a peak around 2012, a post-heatwave decline, and early signs of gradual recovery.

Monitoring Other Species

While humpbacks capture the spotlight each winter, Currie emphasizes that other marine mammals require urgent attention—particularly false killer whales.

The main Hawaiian Islands population of false killer whales is federally listed as endangered and exists nowhere else in the world. Since 2010, the population has declined from roughly 201 individuals to about 139.

“They’re unique to Hawai‘i,” Currie said. “If we lose them, we lose an irreplaceable part of our marine ecosystem.”

Unlike humpbacks, false killer whales do not migrate long distances to rebuild energy reserves. They must feed year-round, often competing with commercial fisheries for tuna and mahi-mahi. Drone research has documented signs of nutritional stress

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Maui Scientist Aims To Find Extraterrestrial Life

By Cindy Schumacher

On March 28, the search for life beyond Earth won’t happen in a lab or through a telescope—it will unfold on stage at ProArts Theatre in Kihei.

Song for the Stars, collaboration between scientists and musicians, brings together cosmic discovery and live performance to spotlight the ExoLife Finder (ELF), a nextgeneration telescope array designed to detect signs of life on distant worlds.

At the heart of the project is Maui resident Dr. Jeffrey R. Kuhn, physicist and astronomer leading the Laboratory for Innovation in Optomechanics, whose team is developing technology capable of scanning exoplanet atmospheres for chemical biosignatures—the fingerprints of life beyond Earth.

“The ELF is a testament to LIOM’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of opto-mechanical engineering,” said Kuhn, who, along with his team, is dedicated to advancing these cutting-edge technologies. “It literally has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe and the potential for life beyond our planets.”

Kuhn received his Ph.D. in physics from Princeton University and specializes in astrophysics. For the last 12 years he has been the director of the UH Institute for Astronomy (IfA) in Maui. He has received more than 24 grants from NASA and the National Science Foundation for his work on solar technologies in Maui and for the development of the most powerful optical instrument, the Advanced Technology Telescope.

Recently retired as IfA director, Kuhn remains a prominent astronomer and professor at the University of Hawai’i. He studies global solar properties, infrared

spectropolarimetry, and new optical designs for telescopes. He is known for his contributions to astrophysics and the search for extraterrestrial life, particularly in the areas of telescope and detection system development, the study of the Sun and its corona, and the search for planets around other stars.

As a former director of the IfA, Kuhn facilitated advanced research in astronomy, particularly on Haleakala, where he played a key role in developing the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope.

“With ELF, a telescope designed exclusively to detect signs of life on exoplanets, we are about to look where no one has looked before,” Kuhn explained. “This bold objective will not only bring us face-to-face with humanity’s most profound discoveries, but it is also pushing our technical capabilities to the limit by reinventing optics, photonics, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing systems. The search for life beyond Earth is not just a scientific question; it’s a driving force transforming the technology of our own planet. And, we are on the verge of finding the answer!”

The revolutionary new class of telescopes is designed to answer one of humanity’s most profound

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questions: Is life unique to Earth, and/ or is it scattered across the cosmos?

Using ELF’s cutting-edge imaging systems capable of directly detecting biosignatures in the atmospheres of planets orbiting nearby stars, we may be able, for the first time, to isolate the faint light of an Earth-like exoplanet from the overwhelming glare of its host star and analyze its potential for life.

“With ELF, we stand on the edge of a scientific and philosophical breakthrough, one that could redefine our place in the universe and challenge everything we think we know about life. I firmly believe that we will find extraterrestrial life within the next 10 years.” Kuhn added, “This goal of developing new types of telescopes that make use of disruptive technologies to detect life on planets beyond our solar system, has become a global initiative.”

ELF’s global mission, led by LIOM, is supported by an international network of scientific and industrial partners. Together, the dedicated scientists, physicists and engineers are committed to

advancing the field of astrobiology and discovering the potential for life beyond our solar system.

The international partners bring together diverse skills and expertise and is driven by a shared passion for exploration and discovery. This global alliance powers ELF as a truly transformative endeavor.

Perhaps surprisingly for many of us, Kuhn, after listening to a lot of indigenous music, had the powerful (aha!) realization that isolated cultures communicate ideas and feelings directly through their music.

“Then, it struck me!” Kuhn recalled, “the projects I’m working on in the Canaries, ELF and LIOM, to create the technology and giant telescope that will allow us to find and communicate with worlds around other stars, could use music to spread the word about how we may transcend petty limitations in both our culture and species!”

The program started as a way to help tell the story that creative art and science can be symbiotic forces in an undivided human civilization. Kuhn offered, “Why shouldn’t we imagine and use music as a fundamental medium when creating this communication?

With the help of Maui experts and international musicians, the event will join native music creators Juan Mesa from LaGomera, Nawang from Tibet, and Jeff Peterson from Maui to test our ability to connect music with science.

“I hope this harmonic convergence will be a starting point and the beginning of a growing public message about the power of music and science. Surely it will be magical!” he said.

Visit proartsmaui.org/events/ for ticket information. Y

Bill 9 Controversy Continues

Maui is again facing a crossroads over the implementation of Bill 9, a new law which eliminates thousands of properties previously allowed to operate as short-term vacation rentals. At press time, the Maui Planning Commission nixed a plan to create new hotel zoning for some of the condominium complexes.

Ultimately, the intersection of Bill 9 and the Planning Commission’s decision underscores a pivotal moment for Maui. As a community dependent on tourism, do we want to prioritize affordable housing accessibility above all? Or should we continue to accommodate the tourists who rent the affected units, that help to pay our bills? We will again face a housing train wreck when FEMA rental assistance, instituted after the 2023 fires, is scheduled to end in early 2027. On the West Side, the affected short-term rentals (where some of the survivors live) won’t convert to long term until after December, 2027. You do the math!

There’s no easy solution, we can't allocate water and build fast enough.

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Maui Pulse is published by Maui Promotions.

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Whales Receive Scientific Scrutiny, Protection

in some individuals, underscoring their vulnerability to changing ocean conditions and shifting prey availability. What you can do

If you want to help the false killer whales, the Pacific Whale Foundation has created a petition to NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service and Hawai‘i’s Division of Aquatic Resources urging immediate action to safeguard the population. You can sign it here: https://protectesa.good.do/ hawaiianfalsekillerwhale/SaveFKW/ . Currie is also lead author of “The Impact of Vessels on Humpback Whale Behavior: The Benefit of Added Whale Watching Guidelines,” published in Frontiers in Marine Science. The study found that vessel speed and approach behavior in Maui Nui can alter humpback swim speed and dive patterns, reinforcing the need for strengthened whale-watching practices. Community members also play a role. By participating in whale counts, following the 100-yard viewing rule, reporting injured animals and supporting responsible operators, you can help reduce human impacts and strengthen ocean stewardship.

Havens Harborside Delivers A Polished, Delicious Experience

By The Unknown Eater

After a late afternoon paddle off the Pali, sun-kissed and salty, my spouse and I found ourselves craving good food and an ocean view for sunset.

We made our way to Havens Harborside Fish and Chop House at Ma‘alaea Harbor, not entirely sure what to expect but having heard it was worth trying. What we quickly discovered was an upscale fish and chop house with a polished atmosphere—and a menu to match, both in quality and price.

The restaurant sits right along the harbor, offering front-row seats to the boats drifting in and out and the sky turning shades of pink and gold as the sun dips below the horizon. After a day on the water, it felt like the perfect setting to unwind. Our server was knowledgeable and genuinely friendly, taking time to share details about the chefs and the restaurant’s awards. That kind of pride in the establishment always adds something special to the experience. It made us feel like we were in good hands.

We started with the Maui ‘Ohana Wagyu Croquettes, served with Castelvetrano olives, mozzarella, tomato jam, and za’atar. They reminded me of an Italian arancini—crispy on the outside with a rich, savory center. The wagyu was tender

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and flavorful without being too heavy, and the tomato jam added just the right touch of sweetness. It was a refined but comforting start to the meal.

For drinks, I ordered a Lokahi Pilsner from Koholā Brewery, which was crisp and refreshing. It paired beautifully with the seafood-forward menu. We opted to share the harborside catch of the day: a whole opakapaka, fried and finished with ginger and ponzu (a citrusy shoyu sauce). There were three different weights to choose from, which I appreciated since you could tailor the portion to your appetite. The fish arrived beautifully presented, golden and aromatic. Once the bone was removed, the meat flaked effortlessly under the fork. It was tender, moist, and absolutely mouthwatering. The ginger and ponzu added brightness without overpowering the natural sweetness. It was served with rice, and we ended up ordering an extra side to soak up every bit of sauce. We couldn’t resist dessert. We chose the Kokoleka Ice Cream Cake with sea salt and caramel. It was decadent without being too sweet.

Havens Harborside delivered more than just a meal; it offered an experience. From the elevated dishes to the attentive service and harbor sunset views, it felt like a well-earned reward after a day in the ocean.

Una Balloona Twists Her Way Into Maui Audience's Hearts

By Cindy Schumacher

Maui resident Una Bella, a professional clown, magician and balloon twister known as Una Balloona, has served the Maui community for almost 20 years.

After leaving the island for approximately 10 years for a career in cybersecurity, she is back with one goal in mind: to create unique fun, magic shows, and enchanted balloon experiences for everyone, and to make them smile and laugh while doing it.

“I love making people happy, especially those who might be struggling through any sort of issues life throws at us,” Bella shared. “I enjoy asking adults and children what they would like to have made and do my best to please them. Simply put, serving others brings me joy and fulfillment.”

Bella began her career by delivering balloons and saw the magical energy and love that she could create. She has managed to establish Una Balloona as an integral part of Maui entertainment by doing numerous gigs and deliveries each month. Twice a month, Bella visits Roselani Place, Maui’s assisted living community in Kahului.

“One of Roselani’s missions is to keep residents happy, active and smiling,” Bella noted. “If I can keep people, many of whom are challenged with memory, captivated through a whole magic and balloon show, it makes me feel good. In fact, on two Wednesdays a month, happiness is just a twist away.”

Kalei Figaroa, Roselani Activity Director, noted, “We have many visitors and entertainers who come to Roselani and volunteer their services. Bella has a following and she never disappoints. The residents get to keep their balloons which represent shared happiness and collective celebration. Psychologists believe that balloons tap into our sense of nostalgia; symbolizing happiness, hope, and the joy of life.”

Bella’s latest venture is a new 501C3 nonprofit named BalloonaGram Projects. A BalloonaGram is a unique delivery of delightful encouragement on Maui and throughout the islands. She brings out the magic toolbox: tricks, balloons, fun tattoos, music, and smiles. Her experience includes five years at Kapi’olani Hospital, two years at Vanderbilt Hospital, and numerous years at Hadassah Children’s Hospital in Jerusalem. Bella’s very first children’s ward visit was in 1986, and she has continued ever since.

BalloonaGram Projects are based on donations to the nonprofit, intended to focus on parts of society that deserve love and attention and do not always get it. Some examples are long-term hospital stays, assisted living facilities, elderly day care, homeless shelters, Women Helping Women, Imua, and others. In these services, no money changes hands and all are welcome to request a postman delivery without worrying about payment.

“In a world where people feel isolated, grieving, or simply unseen, a BalloonaGram reminds them they are loved,” Bella explained. “Every visit is a story unfolding; surprise turning into connection, and hearts opening where they were possibly closed. It’s a knock on the door that changes everything!”

Bella added, “We welcome your help and donations and full support for BalloonaGram to see so many people on Maui and throughout the islands feeling loved. Donations bring the magic to life, funding balloons and magic supplies. Together, BalloonaGram Projects and the community can spread smiles across the state, one person at a time.”

Bella is also available for hire for parties and almost any special occasions. She is doing dynamic magic shows, equipped with PA systems, music, and a wonderful assortment of tricks that include audience participation. She offers glitter tattoos, arts, games and balloon figures.

Presently, you can also find her every Saturday and Sunday 6-8pm at Pizza Madness in Kihei and she’ll be performing magic shows at ProArts Playhouse in Kihei in the near future. Send queries to Balloonagramprojects@ gmail.com, or call (808) 707-9421 for more information.

The Wrecking Crew Is Oahu Set, Unruly And Hilarious

By Barry Wurst II

Angel Manuel Soto’s “The Wrecking Crew” is the Jason Momoa/ Dave Bautista action/ comedy team up that is getting big ratings on Amazon Prime but should have had a theatrical release. I’m unsure why the powers that be decided this obvious crowd pleaser would be best watched at home, when it likely would have played to blockbuster business in theaters.

Momoa stars as Jonny Hale, a Hawaii born misfit and suspended police detective who has been living with his on-again-offagain girlfriend Valentine (played by Morena Baccarin) in Oklahoma. Jonny’s brother, James, played by Dave Bautista, is a Navy SEAL who suspects that the hit and run killing of their father wasn’t accidental. When Jonny and James meet up at the funeral on Oahu, after years of silence and animosity between them, they slowly discover a vast conspiracy that involves not just the truth about their dad’s murder but a dark network in Hawaii.

Soto, who previously made the DCU entry “Blue Beetle” (2023), is up to the challenge of crafting a throwback action comedy, the kind of muscles/guns/’splosions/quip-a-thon that everyone from Arnold Schwarzenegger to Bruce Willis rocked in the 1990’s. Actually, while there are a few similarities to “Hobbs and Shaw” (2019), this is a much better ride. “The Wrecking Crew” is ultraviolent, crass, proudly un-PC and very funny.

Momoa, coming off the triumph of “Chief of War” on Apple TV +, isn’t just an ideal man of action but has strong comic timing. He gets big laughs in nearly every single scene and Momoa always excels at playing a wild card. Bautista, who can play drama as well as dry comedy, has the more serious role, though he gets in some choice deadpan lines in.

Late in the film is a scene where the leads visit Hawaiian Homelands- it’s a strong scene, well written and performed. It’s to the film’s credit that the scene made the final cut and offers political commentary that is unexpected and welcome.

By the time we get to the big freeway chase, involving a helicopter/ninja battle (you read that right), I assumed things were about to wrap up. Actually, this sequence, with some poorly rendered CGI, is just the set up for the even bigger grand finale. Although the film overstays its welcome, I love the bit where our heroes get a pre-battle meal at Zippy’s.

The opening use of Guns N’ Roses “Paradise City” is an obvious reminder of the recent Maui-set “Paradise City” (2022), the Bruce Willis/ John Travolta dud that should have been a sure thing but wasn’t.

“The Wrecking Crew” is no better at maintaining the “Magnum P.I.” cliché that Hawaii is a setting for criminals and car chases (oh, please), but at least here, it’s meant to be a violent farce. They also bring in professional scene stealer Branscombe Richmond for two scenes and even nail the unlikely use of a Phill Collins tune. Sequel, please.

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March 11

JEFF PETERSON is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858

March 13-April 5

RENT ~ A play set in the East Village of New York City, Rent is follows a group of impoverished artist dealing with falling in love, finding their voices and living for today, At ProArts Playhouse in Kihei. Visit proartsmaui.org for tickets.

March 14, April 21

HAMMOCK YOGA & SOUND HEALING + Temple Spa Mini Retreat with Heather & Donny Regal, 2-6pm, Saturdays March 14, April 25.   Two hours Spa + 2 class $50-$80.  Must preregister BlackSwanTemple.org 808-269-4333

March 15

MAUI POPS ORCHESTRAHAWAIIAN SOUL

Under the Direction of Maestro Jim Durham Featuring Maui’s own three-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano winner Paula Fuga. 2pm, Castle Theater at the MACC. Visit mauiarts.org for tickets.

Events Calendar

March 17–19

HARDY, EXPERIENCED BACKPACKERS needed for service to protect native habitat in Haleakalā National Park. Stay in Kapalaoa Cabin, and help the Friends of Haleakalā National Park remove invasive plants or collect native seeds.  Register readiness at www.fhnp.org/Service.html, then contact andy@fhnp.org.

March 17-21

REIKI INITIATION RETREAT with Heather & Donny Regal.  March 17-21. BlackSwanTemple.org 808-269-4333

March 18

Ken Emerson is featured at the Slack Key Show at Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www.Slackkeyshow. com or 808-669-3858

March 21

NATURE’S DOWNLOAD: “Achieve Your Potential” March 21. Pre-Registration Required: soulvoyageadventures.com (808) 264-0972

March 21 & April 18

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

Page 8 Maui Pulse March/April, 2026

sound bath. Crystals are provided and available for purchase. For more info: 808-757-1111. $55

March 25

STEPHEN INGLIS is featured at George Kahumoku’s Slack Key Show. Napili Kai Beach Resort. 6:30pm Tickets: www. Slackkeyshow.com or 808-669-3858

April 3–5

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for service in beautiful Kipahulu District, Haleakala National Park.  Participants will drive to site, help remove invasive plants and stay in campground or bunkhouse.  Learn more and register readiness at www. fhnp.org/Service.html, then contact Peter@fhnp.org.

April 4

“THE ART OF RECEIVING” Sound Healing & Group Energy  at Maui Scalar Room - Designed to open pathways to abundance, connection, and flow, through a blend of rainbow energy, sound frequency, and scalar energy,Info at: GoGetitEnergyhealing.com

April 4

REIKI LEVEL 1 TRAINING: Begin your Reiki journey by learning foundational energy healing techniques to support yourself and others while developing deeper intuition and healing abilities. Haiku. Info at: GoGetitEnergyhealing.com

APRIL 6-27

ELEVATE YOUR MIND AND BODY with Aikido.  Discover the transformative art of Aikido, a practice that harmonizes mind and body through breath work, meditation, and dynamic movement. Introductory Course for beginner adults and teens offered on 4 Mondays, April 6, 13, 20 and 27, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, at Maui Ki Aikido, 194 S. Market, Wailuku.  No prior experience or uniform required. Just come in comfortable,

Hawaiian musician Paula Fuga performs with the Maui Pops Orchestra March 15 at the MACC.

loose clothing and slippers.  Full course $40. For more information and registration: 808-357-5172 or mauikiaikido@gmail.com.

April 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

April 15

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

April 17&18

JOIN THE ANNUAL St. John’s Church Rummage, Bake, and Plant Sale on April 17&18, 9am-3pm, 8992 Kula Hwy. Call (808) 878-1485 for inquiries.

April 18

MOON RITUAL & TEMPLE SPA Mini Retreat with Heather & Donny Regal 2-8pm Sat April 18. Two hours Spa & 2 hour Cacao & Sacred Sound Ceremony & Light Vegan Dinner $60-$111.  Pre Registration required.  BlackSwanTemple.org 808-269-4333.

April 29-May 3

HANUMAN MAUI PRESENTS

“Ram Dass Loving Awareness” Spring Retreat at Napili Kai Beach Resort. Visit www.hanumanmaui. org for details.

ONGOING EVENTS

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

DANCE with Annie Stackhouse Browning MFA Mondays and Thursdays 8:30 to 9:30 AM Wailea Healing Center. A super fun way to improve posture alignment and body integration. Warm-up stretches followed by ballet basics, simple phrases and improv games. By donation. Join us!

Events Calendar

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/

GEORGE KAHUMOKU’S SLACK

KEY SHOW: Every Wednesday. Napili Kai Beach Resort. March Artists: Sean Parks, Jeff Peterson, Ken Emerson and Stephen Inglis. April Artists: Led Kaapana, Brother Noland and Sonny Lim Tickets: www.SlackKeyShow.com/showschedule or 808-669-3858

COMPLIMENTARY MONTHLY REIKI SHARE for people touched by cancer; by Reiki with Jenna in partnership with Maui Cancer Resources Angels on Assignment. Reserve: 408-621-4102 Jenna@ lifestylereiki.com

HUI NO‘EAU VISUAL ARTS CENTER, Upcountry. The Hui offers classes, workshops, and camps for all ages and artistic abilities. Hui classes include programs in drawing, painting, photography, printmaking, jewelry, ceramics, glassblowing, Hawaiian arts and more! Info.: huinoeau.com

ENJOY A VARIETY of sound healing and wellness events powered by scalar energy, with several offerings each week. Full schedule at mauiscalarroom.com/ events/

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.

Maui Pulse calendar listings are 40 cents a word. Send to Maui Pulse@aol.com before Fri., April 24 to be included in our May edition.

Finding A Satisfying And Magical Attitude That Radiates

By Elena Lissone

Hi, it’s Elena, your self-esteem booster. I have no idea why my self-esteem would suffer when upheaval comes my way. Right now, I’m in the middle of something I call “the breakies.” Besides making me anxious, it’s a setback when so many things break around the same time. The agitation I feel is not caused by the breakies per se, but rather by my personal feeling that I don’t have my s*** together with the logistics in my life. So, with car out of commission and my husband’s weed wacker broken besides all sorts of other little things, I figure I’m not the only person that feels unbalanced when experiencing the breakies. It’s little stuff in the big picture and yet my feelings of incompetence have escalated. I’m not saying that I need to learn how to fix all sorts of things, just my reaction, and, as always, that’s up to nobody but us.

When we decide that life will toss us here and there and up and down without falling apart, we are winners because the next step is taking it all in more stride. Changes of all degrees will come to pass and they are not

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always comfortable like those new shoes we haven’t broken in yet. I advocate for graceful acquiescence with the understanding that we don’t have much control over all things. Hopefully, you will exercise the control you do have, in wondrous loving ways

Personal self-esteem gets higher when we don’t give in to the misery of becoming a narcissistic individual while things around you are changing. The people in your life still matter and the reactions that you get from

- William Greenleafl

others will boost you when you are in right balance. It does matter and so do you.

I believe in win-win which never includes just getting our own way. If it’s not a winwin, to me, it’s a lose-lose because we all have the job of helping each other in this life. And as I’ve said before, not to our own detriment. That’s not a win-win.

First off, our main job is to find a satisfying and magical attitude that radiates from you to the universe. We owe that to each other and to ourselves to make decisions based on loftier thinking.

So when changes come your way, please don’t pine for yesterday and how things used to be. We hope to fashion our lives but not to let others do this for us. By the same token, we don’t really want to do this for anyone else either.

Even your children have the right to carve their own path, with guidance of course.

Thank you for staying highminded as you dig into more clarity and focus for wellbeing plus awesome and brilliant self-esteem.

Happy springtime until we meet again. Aloha.

The Quiet Roar Of Courage

By Jonathan Yudis

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says I’ll try again tomorrow.”

— Mary Anne Radmacher

March carries special meaning for me. It’s the month of my mother’s 85th birthday — and this year, it’s also the month I’ve been sitting beside her hospital bed, holding her hand as she faces a series of health challenges. In those quiet rooms, courage reveals itself in its purest form. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t demand attention. Sometimes it simply breathes.

My mom has always loved felines — both cats and lions. And I understand why. She embodies both. Gentle and fierce. Tender and strong. She has taught me that courage doesn’t always arrive with a roar. Sometimes it arrives as patience. Sometimes as humor in hard moments. Sometimes as the decision to meet tomorrow with an open heart.

Here on Maui, courage lives in the land.

Long before there were paved roads or place names, Polynesian voyagers set sail into vast, unknown oceans, guided only by stars, currents, and faith. They left everything familiar behind, trusting instinct and spirit to carry them forward. That bravery echoes still — in our mountains, our winds, our people.

Hawaiian wisdom gives language to this deeper courage.

Koa — the warrior heart.

Ikaika — inner strength and resilience.

Imua — forward, always forward.

Wiwo’ole — fearless.

‘Onipa’a — steadfast, rooted, unshakable. These values remind us that true courage isn’t brute force. It’s endurance. Presence. Compassion. It’s staying soft in a hard world.

We practice courage every day, often without realizing it.

It lives in caregivers and first responders. In parents and teachers. In those rebuilding after loss. In anyone facing illness. In anyone choosing forgiveness. In anyone brave enough to begin again.

Courage is answering the phone when you’d rather hide.

It’s asking for help.

It’s loving after heartbreak.

It’s showing up when you’re tired.

It’s believing in healing even when the path feels long.

My mother reminds me that courage doesn’t require perfection. It simply asks us to participate — to meet life honestly, moment by moment.

So wherever you are right now, know this: your quiet efforts matter. Your small steps count. Your willingness to keep going is its own kind of roar.

And here on Maui — shaped by voyagers, values, and countless unseen acts of bravery — we are surrounded every day by reminders that courage doesn’t live only in history.

“ Your small steps count. Your willingness to keep going is its own kind of roar. ”

Your Body Is Not the Problem.

Janet Farnsworth, MSW

Trauma-Informed Somatic Therapist

Founder of Ready for Intimacy™

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or quietly exhausted—nothing is wrong with you. Your nervous system has been working overtime. Under prolonged stress, we shift into protection. Aliveness dims.

Pleasure fades. This isn’t weakness. It’s biology.

The way forward isn’t pushing harder. It’s learning how to feel safe again.

Janet's work helps women:

• Regulate and restore safety

• Reclaim pleasure and vitality

• Release shame

• Feel grounded and powerful in their own skin

Grounded in neuroscience.

Guided with care.

Designed for real life.

In-person (Maui) & online sessions available. Currently welcoming a limited number of private clients. www.janetfarnsworth.com

Innovations Rolling Out

New Tech To Make Life Better!

By George Gordon

Get ready for an amazing 2026 packed with life-changing new products that’s going to totally transform how we live! Apple is set to lead the charge with some fresh innovations. Remember those whispers about an Apple car? Well, with Chinese companies creating affordable electric and selfdriving cars, Apple is finally ready to roll out its own model.

Since the iPod, iPhone, Watch, iPad, and the Vision Pro (which didn’t quite hit the mark at $3000), they’re gearing up to launch their first pair of smart glasses, similar to the Ray-Ban Meta. These glasses can translate any language while you and someone from another country chat next to each other

Plus, there are rumors of a Ring and a new foldable, clear-screen iPhone that could display a holographic image of the caller—like a ghost right in front of you when you make a call!

We all have internet access, and this year, Hawaiian Telecom is bringing fiber optic cable to homes at 1 gigabyte download speeds, compared to Spectrum’s 300 megabytes. But hold on, Spectrum just announced they’re also getting fiber optic to their customers! Another option is Star Link, which uses satellites to send signals, and now Amazon is jumping in with their own satellites. So, which one should you choose?

Star Link starts around $125 a month, while Amazon will start at $60 a month. The fiber optic companies start around $60 per month but offer much faster speeds. Your iPhone can now use a satellite connection when you don’t have cellular or Wi-Fi, so you don’t need to buy a satellite phone. It’s going to be an exciting year with tons of new ways to make your life better with cool tech.

If you need any computer help, give me a shout at (808) 665-1025 or email me at mauimist@aol.com. Y

Maui County Seeking Business Feedback

The County of Maui Office of Economic Development (OED) is encouraging Maui County businesses to participate in the Maui Nui Business Health Check, a countywide survey focused on understanding current business conditions and identifying opportunities that support recovery, stability and longterm growth.

The survey is designed to capture perspectives from businesses across industries and regions, recognizing that Maui County’s economy continues to evolve as businesses respond to a range of conditions, including post-wildfire recovery.

“This survey helps us better understand current business conditions and where County support can be most effective,” said Jade Rojas-Letisi, director of the County of Maui Office of Economic Development. “Input from businesses across Maui County will help inform future programs and ensure our efforts are aligned with real needs and opportunities.”

Responses to the Maui Nui Business Health Check will be reviewed and used to inform economic development planning and coordination with County and community partners. For businesses, participation helps ensure their experiences and perspectives are reflected as OED considers future programs and initiatives that support a resilient and diverse local economy.

The survey takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Responses are confidential, and businesses may choose to opt in to receive updates from OED related to business assistance and economic development efforts.

To participate in the Maui Nui Business Health Check survey, visit https://www.mauinuistrong.info/feedback. The survey is open for feedback through April 30, 2026 For questions regarding the survey, please email economic.development@mauicounty.gov.

Techniques Us Help Propagate Exceptional Fruit Trees

By Jayanti Nand, Natureworks Nursery

At NatureWorks Nursery, two of the propagation methods we value most are grafting and air layering. These are not just techniques we teach, they are methods we use every week to grow better fruit trees for our Maui community.

Let’s start with mango. When you plant a mango seed from a fruit you loved, you can’t always predict what kind of mango that new tree will produce. In many cases, the fruit will vary in flavor, texture, or quality. You might also wait years for fruit, only to discover it tastes different or produces less than you hoped. That’s why we graft our mango trees.

Instead of leaving it to chance, grafting allows us to intentionally propagate a specific mango variety. We take a cutting, what we call scion wood, from a mango tree known for exceptional fruits, then we unite it with a young mango tree we grew from seed.

Once they heal together, they grow as one tree, carrying forward the exact genetics of the mango we selected. In simple terms, grafting lets us copy what works. Mango is just one example. We also graft avocados, citrus, and many other exotic fruit trees at the nursery.

Any time we want to propagate a special variety, whether it’s known for flavor, productivity, or adaptability, grafting allows us to multiply that genetic material and share it with confidence. Grafting also helps trees bear fruit much sooner than

We use a similar principle with lychee, though we typically propagate it through air-layering. Lychee is one example of a tree we air-layer, but it is not the only one. Many tropical fruit trees respond beautifully to this method as well. With airlayering, we encourage roots to form on a branch while it is still attached to a mature fruiting tree.

Once the roots form, we cut the branch and turn it into a new tree. This new tree is then genetically identical to the original one we took the branch from. Like grafting, air layering allows us to propagate excellence. It allows us to multiply trees we already know are productive and flavorful. And like grafting, it also helps trees produce fruit much sooner than if they were grown from seed.

These propagation methods are more than techniques; they are ways of safeguarding special genetics. They help ensure that outstanding fruit varieties continue to exist in our orchards and backyards. They allow us to protect quality, shorten the wait for harvest, and plant with intention rather than uncertainty.

If you would like to learn these techniques hands-on, we will be hosting our next Grafting and Air Layering Class at NatureWorks Nursery on April 11. Space is limited, so we encourage you to sign up in advance by visiting NatureWorksNursery.com. When you understand propagation, you are not just growing trees, you are cultivating abundance for generations to come! Y

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Ready to Release, Recharge & Reclaim Your Inner Peace?

Discover the power of Go Get It Energy Healing

Experience a personalized energy healing session guided by intuitive hands to restore balance, renew your spirit & promote deep relaxation at Go Get it Energy’s North Shore location. Heal, relax & release blockages.

Sat. April 4 - Maui Scalar Room - “The Art of Receiving“ Sound Healing & Group Energy Event, designed to open pathways to abundance, connection, and flow, through a blend of rainbow energy, sound frequency, and scalar energy, Book a private session; join a training or an event today!

Sat., April 4 - Haiku - Reiki Level 1 - Full Day Training: Begin your Reiki journey by learning foundational energy healing techniques to support yourself and others while developing deeper intuition and healing abilities. Info at: GoGetitEnergyhealing.com

• Transformational wellness gatherings

The Energy Enhancement System offers a peaceful environment for profound relaxation and energetic support.

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Come unwind. Let your body recalibrate. Your nervous system will thank you.

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