To someone in West Maui with a love for kitties

As a former County Councilmember and a person who has always had the best interests of our community at heart, I am seriously concerned about the cost of housing and rentals here in West Maui. It is driving away the very people who are involved in helping to make our community a better place.

One of my dearest friends who manages a local nonprofit that provides services to help manage and eventually reduce our serious cat overpopulation must relocate. Like many others who rent here in West Maui, property owners are selling their homes for top dollar in a hot real estate market and leaving renters homeless.

People who have pets are even more challenged when trying to find affordable rentals that will allow any animals. It is my hope that my friend will be able to continue his work here, but that will not be possible if he is forced to leave. I know this is not an easy ask because so many people are in need; however, it is something that will not only benefit one person, but it will benefit our entire community.

It is a troubling time in our world, and people question why cats or other animals should even be of concern when there are other needs that must be addressed.

My comment to that view is: “when we care for the defenseless animals who have no voice of their own, it is the most sincere form of compassion and caring that we as humans can offer. It is, in fact, what defines our humanity.”

When one looks at the videos of refugees fleeing the Ukraine, it is so moving to see them cradling their pets as they seek safety and freedom. It is heartbreaking to know that such suffering exists, yet the actions of these brave people shows that they have not lost their humanity. They risk everything to care for the people and animals they love.

It is my friend’s mission in life to help alleviate the suffering and cruelty that is being inflicted on both feral cats and the pets that have been lost or stolen and dumped. He has spent all of his savings and continues his work through the generosity of those who share his mission.

My hope is that whoever reads this letter will be able to offer my friend a ray of hope by either renting to him at a reasonable rate, allowing him to serve as an overseer for their property or make an accommodation that is mutually agreeable.

I am happy to provide a stellar reference for him, as are many of his friends and volunteers throughout the community. He is a rare and precious resource that we cannot afford to lose. Please contact me if you are able or willing to help with this heartfelt request.

Because I am a caregiver for my husband who has Alzheimer’s, I may not be able to respond immediately, but please accept my sincere thanks for considering this humble request. God Bless those who continue to help make West Maui a community filled with caring and compassionate people. We need more of them in this world.

JO ANNE JOHNSON WINER, johnsonj031@hawaii.rr.com, West Maui

Rickard deserves recognition

Na Kupuna O Maui wishes to recognize Todd Rickard for his 25-plus years of service leading our Luna Ladies since the mid-1990s to 19 Maui Interscholastic League Basketball titles.

His dedicated service is a testament to all that is great in our community, both on and off the court.

We are blessed by his presence.

AUNTY PATTY NISHIYAMA, Na Kupuna O Maui

Correct a fiasco by creating a heritage park

Writing letters to the editor has been fun. Nevertheless, it does take time and effort to choose the right words in a succinct way. Anybody who knows how much I talk would agree that limiting words is sweat equity for me. Lately, some readers have inquired to why fewer letter submissions. Truth be told, watching Korean dramas is probably a contributing factor, but here are my best excuses.

My son is getting married and moving off-island. Although happy for him, having a computer helper and book writing adviser in the next room has been a blessing for a computer illiterate, uneducated writer like me. Writing is heavy lifting. After hours of slaving over the right words, my brain turns to mush. Working on a book, finishing it has been put off long enough. Telling about my experiences with the Kahoma developments seems more urgent now. Diagnosed with cancer a year ago, facing mortality makes one more intentional with doing important and meaningful things.

Wondering if the book would be read and if it will make a difference has been another reason for procrastination. If it fails to succeed, why even try and put in all the hard work? Then I read what Mother Teresa said: “I am not called to be successful, but to be faithful.”

Still, I get discouraged. The European war only makes it worse. How do we expect Putin or all the other evil world leaders to do what is right, if our own local government fails to do so? It has been over nine months since the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled against the Maui Planning Commission and Stanford Carr Development. The ball was put in their court to address the wrongdoings, but so far nothing has been done to right the wrongs committed.

Hopefully, something wonderful will come of the Kahoma Village fiasco. A heritage historical park in Lahaina for starters. Consider ways to get involved. Besides a beautiful place for recreation, education and preservation, developing a heritage park is a way to honor people, families and businesses making up our amazing community.

MICHELE LINCOLN, Lahaina