I’ve been telling myself it’s only a tree. But it seems to be a lot more. Lahaina, Maui has been home to a massive banyan tree for decades. It’s said to be the second largest Ficus benghalensis in the world, and it spreads over an entire block on Front Street, just steps from the Pacific Ocean. Planted 150 years ago, this handsome, romantic, shady tree has witnessed wedding proposals and probably a few break-ups. It’s thick vines have been swung on by kids for generations, and its multiple trunks carved into far too many times by visiting lovers. Still it’s Read more
rebuilding Lahaina
I wrote last week about how Lahaina and Maui residents have to be at the forefront when the times comes to rebuild the city. I’m happy to see a community group has been formed to make sure that happens, and I’m also happy to see that the governor of Hawai’i and U.S. President Joe Biden (VERY late to the game, by the way) agree. The Maui News reports that a group called Na Ohana o Lele is calling on Governor Josh Green to ensure that “all decisions about rebuilding Lahaina” are made in the open and with the “full participation” of the Lahaina community. Read more
