Guest chefs and Amy Hanaiali‘i to headline ‘Buy Back the Beach’

Hanaiali‘i
LAHAINA — Maui Coastal Land Trust’s ninth annual “Buy Back the Beach” benefit hosted by Old Lahaina Luau will treat guests to a tasty and tasteful evening of Hawaiian music and dance, and an exciting showcase of West Maui’s hottest restaurants.
The gala on Saturday, April 10, will feature a who’s who of celebrity island chefs, plus the unmistakable vocal powerhouse of Maui’s own songstress, Amy Hanaiali‘i, performing live with her band.
The dynamic duo of Tony Takitani and Deidre Tegarden will emcee the fund-raiser.
The addition of food stations to the event provides partygoers the opportunity to taste the innovative cuisine of guest chefs Mark Ellman of Mala Ocean Tavern, James McDonald of Pacific’O, Peter Merriman of Merriman’s Restaurants, Ivan Pahk of Sansei and Cane & Taro, Joey Macadangdang of Roy’s Restaurants and Sheldon Simeon of Star Noodle. Old Lahaina Luau host chefs Craig Masuda and Jorge Perez will also prepare traditional luau fare.
The “Adventures for the ‘Aina” live auction will return with great adventures on Maui and beyond. There are exclusive packages (heli-hike to the Pu‘u Kukui Forest Reserve), fun packages (canoe surf with legendary waterman Dave Kalama), and great getaways, including an all-inclusive weekend at a private 11-room ranch on Molokai, or a week-long vacation along the Washington coast’s Long Beach Peninsula. An auction preview is available at www.mauicoastallandtrust.org.
“Over the last decade, the success of this event and community support for MCLT have grown enormously. We are so appreciative,” said board President Helen Nielsen.
“This is the most exciting luau benefit we’ve planned yet. I suggest everyone book early so they get great seats.”
Tickets, $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight, include entertainment, tasting feast and two cocktails. Seating is limited. To make reservations, call Maui Coastal Land Trust at 244-5263.
“Buy Back the Beach” is Maui Coastal Land Trust’s signature gala, accounting for close to half of its annual fund-raising.
MCLT proudly acknowledges Whalers Realty Inc., First Wind, Aloha Recycling and Mana Foods as 2010 event sponsors. The group is especially grateful to Old Lahaina Luau and its staff, who graciously donate their time, venue and expertise every year.
Maui Coastal Land Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting coastal, agricultural, environmental and culturally significant lands in Maui Nui.
Since 2001, over 15,000 acres have been placed in MCLT stewardship for perpetuity.
For information on membership and volunteer opportunities, call 244-5263 or visit www.mauicoastallandtrust.org.