As someone who loved visiting Lahaina Town for its historical charm and middle class vibe, I hope the State of Hawaii and local authorities will mandate a plan for rebuilding that doesn’t result in another Kaanapali complex of high rise hotels for the wealthy, pushing out all the locals! As a resident of coastal California, we know well the political influence of real estate speculators and developers working with pro-development city councils, who work in tandem to undermine the local citizen approved careful planning of city, county, state and coastal commission efforts.
With tourism in mind, think about commercial developers mindset on this area pre fire, ”if only there was a clean slate to build on” or “these people won’t sell!”. My “conspiracy brain” feels like Mother Nature was assisted.
I know that Kaanapali is YES, a high rise hotel and time shares. I purchased my time share in Kaanapali...a long time ago, while staying at the ORIGINAL Kaanapali Beach Resort. I have such fond memories of that place! We sat out on our lanai every night watching the night time shows. And built a relationship with some of the employees, that we would go back and find year after year. However, circumstances were what they were, and we ended up buying at one of the bigger resorts. We have NEVER upgraded our original purchase. I just want to be able to lay near the beach, jump in a pool....and walk along the sidewalk and enjoy. It is NOT about fancy high-rise resorts. I am at the lowest value. AND now, want out of it and don't know how!!!
I have some buddies that are real estate developers. They showed up in Lahaina right afterwards and made full cash offers to many folks that lost their homes. It was a very good deed and provided much needed financial support for those who lost their homes.
Mahalo. I served three weeks with the American Red Cross in helping Lahaina citizens with immediate financial relief. Also serving the men and women of Maui Fire, Rescue and Police. My heart belongs to you, my Ohana.
The Maria Lanakila Catholic Church with the RED ROOF in the video, (time stamp 17:20) was never touched by the Lahaina inferno fires. Even the Rectory wasn’t touched, either was the grass & palm trees on the property, they weren’t even singed! Furthermore, the inferno fire and heat that completely destroyed other properties that surrounded the Church property, the intense heat from all that surrounding destruction, didn’t even wilt the flowers on the Altar inside the Church. Lastly, Maria Lanakila stands for OUR LADY OF VICTORY!!! Ave Maria! Viva Cristo Rey!
There is no god only fact and superstition. The building is brick with a metal roof. Stop reading into it some supernatural explanation, it's science and fact nothing else.
I work in toursim in Maui and I recommend your content to EVERYONE.. Mahalo for your very informative videos. Truely the sourse for information and visiuals.
With the Hawaiian Islands so far away from the Mainland, it's amazing to see how much cleanup has been done so far. I think the cleanup here is going much faster than in the 9th Ward of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. My heart still aches when seeing these drone flyovers, but so much Aloha for the People of Lahaina and glad to see a sort of normalcy slowly starting to return. Mahalo!
I am very surprised to see how much progress has been made! For such a widespread area, it looks like the teams responsible in the rebuilding process are doing a fantastic job!
@missgretchen74 I agree. I know a lot of people wish the cleanup could go quicker but there were a ton of logistical considerations that slowed things down in the early stages. Finding a place to dispose of all the ash and debris was one of the biggest issues. I'm grateful for the progress.
Why aren’t residents allowed to put up a prefab trailer or RV or even a tent on their own property? They should be able to start living on their property instead of being displaced in various locations, still having to pay their mortgage.
@@lorla151 RV's have their own water and septic storage which can be emptied and refilled. Solar panels, generators, and propane can supply electricity. They are made for all those perks. At least people would be able to cook, sleep in their own beds, and be somewhat comfortable without the expense of renting.
As much as I do appreciate your update videos.... There is no way that it will be possible to rebuild Lahaina as it WAS. I TREASURE walking through every gift shop with creaky floors, and no extra flair. BUT, they were original family owned shops!! And will they EVER be able to afford to rent or own these store fronts again? It just breaks my heart to remember the shops, WITH THE MOST FRIENDLY PEOPLE. I would rather make my purchases from them. I haven't been back to Maui since the fires. Was supposed to go last year. But I don't know if I REALLY would not CRY the entire time. Feeling so much for these people. Thank you for sharing, and I HOPE that no one takes this comment as anything negative. I am a very sentimental person, I can't help it.
We have a timeshare in Maui and was there in 2021. I look back at many of the pictures I've taken and cry, knowing that such buildings as the Baldwin Museum are gone forever. We took a submarine tour in Lahaina Harbor, and seeing the aftermath. Just breaks my heart. My eyes are tearing up just writing this reply.
Ich komme aus Deutschland ,aber ich kann deine Meinung absolut nachvollziehen. Es kann nicht mehr so sein wie vor dem großen Feuer . Auch ich habe geweint als ich die Berichte im Internet gesehen habe . Es tut mir unendlich leid für die vielen Menschen , die gestorben sind 😢 und die alles verloren haben. Ich denke so viel an sie, und wie es wohl jetzt für sie weiter geht. Ich bin sehr traurig .
that was fun, just walking up and down Front Street, going into little shops with, as you said, the creaky floors. And the fancier art galleries (Friday Nite was art nite)
*Things need to be changed so the fire doesn't happen AGAIN! "Creaky floors" mean old wood that will burn easier. They need fire safe buildings, less dried vegetation, etc. People doing a better job keeping their neighborhood safe and cleaned up!
@@22lyric of course creaky floors means old wood, the buildings were old--that was the charm, it is unfortunate that they didn't have sprinklers in them due to their age.
My wife and I live in Miami but we have vacationed in Maui 13 times over the past 25 years. We have walked Lahaina dozens of times over the years and as devastating as the fire was, I’m happy to see all the work that has been done to bring back the area in recent months. We continue to pray for those impacted by the fire hopefully all those families waiting to return to Lahaina to live and work will be able to ASAP.
These videos cheer me up seeing the progress for the people of Lahaina. Prayers for all there. The people were so wonderful when I lived there. Just the kindest place ever.
I live some 4,500 miles from Lahaina and have been following your video updates for some time. This airborne series, illuminating the scope of the Lahaina tragedy and the power of the collective human response, is moving and inspiring. Many, many thanks.
Jesse: We just returned from our Condo on Kaanapali, Maui, on June 1st, and it is both heartening and amazing to see how much Progress has been made in the last 30 days, since your last major Video and Aerial photography update. You are the most reliable resource for the rapid, positive work being done by the phenomenal Cleanup & Recovery effort. Kudos to the people of Lahaina and West Maui, the Corps of Engineers, the Red Cross, and all the volunteers who have stepped in and stepped up to drive this progress. Keep the regular Video Updates coming. Your Videos speak volumes, and tell the truth about these inspiring Lahaina Cleanup, Recovery and Rebuilding efforts. Thank You!
Maui was my home for 25+ years - I worked at Ka'anapali Beach Hotel for over a decade. It breaks my heart to see the devastation of my former home. I'm not going to second guess what should or should not be done for the reconstruction, but my heart will always be with those struggling to return to their beloved Lahaina. Maui No Ka Oi!
Ka'anapali Beach hotel was the hotel we stayed at my first time to Maui. Lovely hotel, we got upgraded to a full ocean front room (and that made us happy lol). That was back in the 70s, traveled back to Maui many times staying at different locations from the Hyatt to some nice vacay rental condos. Always on my mind to go back again, but now with Lahaina gone, the desire is gone.
Mahalo! It’s still very heartbreaking to see what is no longer. I have very fond memories of Lahaina only as a tourist and at the same time i am glad the progress that is made and the hope for the locals to get their homes back, hopefully sooner than later. You do great work with these regular videos and all the new info with it. Keep it going
We were there for 8 days last month and the progress was uplifting. However I still cried every time we drove by the affected areas. We live in a high fire danger area and have been evacuated many times. My heart goes out to everyone there.
Thank you very much for putting these videos on. We were there 5 years ago and fell in love with Lahaina. We were devastated when we watched the fire. So we are glad to see your videos. Progress is definitely being made. Keep up the good work, and thanks again
I see why some people in power are so jealous that they want to destroy that place! Looks beautiful I would love to live there if I can near the ocean!
Thank you. My family has been visiting Lahaina town for over 20 years. We have loved it and we were devastated when it burned, families lost their homes, loves lost, business just gone and worst of all the historic sites I loved the most. Your videos are great as the news tells us nothing. I think that the reconstruction is happening in good time. Such damage takes a while especially in Hawaii! I just hope the rebuilds will not be too "modern" and take away the character of the town. Narry a frown in Lahaina town!
If I had my drivers, ID like to see it built back almost exactly as it was...but with more fire protection. But that's my sentimental side. (I lived in Lahaina years ago.)
It is nice to see all the progress they have made clearing lots. Knowing how slow the county permitting review process has been in the past it is nice to see the focus they are putting on quickly approving fire rebuild permits. These are very informing videos.
Thank you Jessie for another informative update. You are second to none in bringing us a first hand view of the cleanup efforts. It would be great to hear what the town is going to do about its infrastructure like power, water, sewage. I never admired the insane amount of wiring that drooped from building to building on Front Street. Hopefully we will see that addressed before all the new construction starts. Mahalo
Thank you for keeping us updated. It is amazing how much progress has been done on the island despite having roughly 2000 miles of Ocean in between it and the mainland.
Mahalo Jesse for keeping all of us who love Laihaina and its residents up to date on the recovery process. I was so pleased to see how much progress has been made thus far and hope that this continues at an even more rapid pace. My husband & I are coming back to Maui in September, and plan to support the community and the businesses with our vacation $$. Please keep making these videos and posting them.
The clean up numbers are very impressive. I’m amazed how fast things are progressing, hope the building goes at a rapid pace like the cleanup. Thank you for you informative videos.
Thank you for making this video. I am coming to Maui in September and want to be respectful of the Maui people and environment. I’ll keep watching this incredible progress. Aloha ❤
Great job! I have been coming to Lahaina for 23 years and your tour updates has been both informative and helpful for my anxiety over the loss. Thank you!
I’m very excited about the progress! I was planning on visiting Hawaii for the 1st time in many years just before the fire! I’m now hoping to visit in the next year or so as the recovery starts to rebuild! I’m really hoping Mick Fleetwood rebuilds Fleetwood on Front Street ASAP. I think that would be a real inspiration for the town!!! I love your videos!!! Keep up the great work!!! By the way I’m so happy the Banyan Tree seems to be doing ok! Please do a specific update on its health and such ASAP. 😎🌺
Wow, lots of progress; however, noticed several large burned out trees on cleared lots. Is tree removal part of the lot clearing process? PS - Hope one of the recommendations from Japan will be the inclusion of underground water cisterns for fire fighting. My neighborhood in Japan had these street cisterns that are automatically filled by rain and available for fire trucks to tap into during any incidents. PS2 - Great series of videos
@williamlloyd3769 Yes, they are clearing the dead trees as part of the clean up. However many property owners are asking for the trees to be re-evaluated because they want to give them a chance to come back if they have any signs of life. It can be a challenging balance between preserving public safety and honoring the property owners wishes.
As I prepare to come to Maui next week from Washington State, I have been following your videos and progress in Lahaina. It's great to see the progress in recovery, and look forward to adding revenue for the area local businesses. It matters that you do these!
We really appreciate your updates as Maui and Lahaina are special to us. We really want to see the local people to be helped in their recovery. Perhaps the rebuild will cause the building structures to be limited in how close they are to each other.
aloha Jesse, I am a Maui girl and Baldwin high School 1981 graduate . sadly I no longer live on Maui. while looking through pictures on our phone. we came across your commentaries. it has been helpful to me to know what's happening in Lahaina. as you have stated multiple times. that there is so much false information being told out there. it warms my heart to know that somebody is there paying attention to what's happening. while sharing it with the rest of us. mahalo for all that you do for the Maui residents, The folks that live there and abroad. again, mahalo and aloha. Laura
Hi Jesse, I hope that the county is requiring Hawaiian Electric to improve the safety of the communities they serve. I say that because i lived in California where the following wildfires were caused by power pole: The 2018 Camp Fire destroyed the town of Paradise and resulted in 85 fatalities. 2018 Dixie Fire which burned 963,390 acres Laguna Fire and the Thomas Fire. P.G.&E. was found to have failed to safely maintain their poles. It’s my prayer that Maui consider using this opportunity to require the Hawaiian Electric to improve the safety of the communities they serve. I very much enjoy your updates on Lahaina’s recovery progress. Mahalo and Aloha! Pam Kaegi
Thanks, Jesse. Good information and I've been following your updates! I know the homes being rebuilt for the homeowners is priority #1, etc. Post-home rebuilds and when everything settles, it would be nice to have a memorial for those who have passed away during the fires... Thanks for sharing... Mahalo ~ D
My wife and I wpent part of 30 winters in and around Lahaina. First at Kaanapali Royal then Maui Islander, Puamana and finally Kahana condos. Many weeekdays at Wahikuli Beach, Saturdays Mai Tais at Lahaina Fish Company and Sundays at KBH brunch. We have many local friends, some of whom lost everything. We miss Lagaina and our friends there greatly buy know we won't live o\long enough to see the full rebuild. We look for your updates every day, and appreciate them greatly. We are both 86 and if we kick the bucket befor rebuild is completed, we'll be watching your updates from high above your drone. Thank you so much for the good work. Aloha, God Bless, and keep it up. Inge and Joe Osterhout watching in Chicago
This recovery phase is so good to see. I live in Santa Rosa, Calif and experienced the Tubbs Fire of 2017. Our recovery was just a training ground for those fire rebuilds to follow. The progress made in Lahaina is impressive from my prospective. In just one year this is amazing to see. Take heart that you are all doing a hard job but it is happening and will be over. I am so glad to hear about the replanting of the trees. They are as needed as the homes. I will probably never be able to get back to my beloved Lahaina but it warms my heart to see it will come back. Thank you for this hopeful video.
Thank you for the drone videos. It just breaks my heart to see the devastation again. I appreciate the time and effort you spent creating these images. My heart goes out to those affected by the Lahaina Fire.
We rely on you for all our updates,thank you. Lahaina born and raised (CA now), residential movement is promising but I”m concerned about the rebuilding of downtown. Will there be any effort to recapture the architectural history that made my birthplace magical and special? What about the Pioneer Inn with those wonderful balconies overlooking Front Street? Even though my family remains in north Lahaina and Kahului, I always stayed at the Pioneer twice a year just to revel in my boyhood memories. Mahalo Jesse. Your drone tours are vital to us all.
@whitescion70 Thank you for your kind words and support! It means even more coming from someone who was born and raised in Lahaina. Like you, I also hope there is a concentrated effort to recapture the architectural history that made Lahaina such a magical and special place. As soon as I hear more about the plans for Front Street, I will make sure to share.
I would like to hear from local families. Get updates on their perspective and how the process has been for them with their lot clearing, insurance coverage and insurance reimbursements, also what they look forward to with the new construction. I’m curious if the style/ innovation with drastically change, infrastructure improvements and what the community goal is for modernization. Thanks for this coverage, I had recently heard a completely different and less positive update, this was refreshing and I’m so happy for the families and small businesses owners who have some idea of when they’ll regain their properties.
My heart breaks for all of those who lost their lives, loved ones, homes and businesses. I have been visiting Maui from Canada since 1996, and Lahaina was always one of my most special places. Thank you for posting this update. It is still so hard to see the devastation that the fire left in its wake, but I am trying to be positive about seeing some progress in the rebuild. I really appreciate your thoughtful commentary.
Thanks for the videos. Been coming to Maui since 94 and feel like a part of Lahaina. I hope they take their time and do the rebuild right. Make the people whose homes were lost no. ONE!
I appreciate your objective reporting. It is good to see the progress being made. My family has been been frequent visitors to Maui (Kahana) and love being there. It was heartbreaking to see the devastation this last visit. Thank you for the updates.
Thanks for your videos to keep people informed of the ongoing progress. I think the progress made in less than a year is incredible. Hopefully homes will be rebuilt soon. Thanks Jesse.
Who is investigating the missing school children? Why aren’t people asking? Saw pictures after the fire and it appeared that the parking lot full of school buses was empty. Devastating yet no one can ask/talk about it?
Because there ARENT any "missing children". Everyone has been accounted for. You're just believing social media nonsense. I bet you read that Oprah had tunnels to hide kids too, right?
Thank you so much for your video updates. My wife and I met on Maui in April, 1974 when I was a member of a Honolulu Symphony. The orchestra was performing with the Hawaii Opera Theater on the island on the evening of the 24th. We are celebrating our 50 anniversary in August. We are very familiar with Lahaina Town and have wonderful memories of our visits. Recovery is progressing slowly but will eventually be complete. Please keep the videos coming. Mahalo!
Oh wow ! I bet the orchestra sounded just beautiful!!!! And congratulations on 50 years !! There’s something to be said for that ! My parents celebrated 60 years last year and I’m so proud of them ! Anyways thanks for your comment. What did you play ? ❤️💯🙏
@@leanneadams2549 I was the tuba player with the orchestra. That evening we performed an opera by Verdi. Seems like yesterday! My wife was on vacation staying with a friend of another orchestra member. We were engaged 8 days after we met and married 4 months later. Wow! It sounds like a fake story but it’s true. Fate! Aloha
@@JesseGWald Mahalo! It’s an incredible love story that is 50+ years in the making. We have been back several times. There probably is one more trip to Maui. What’s your favorite hotel/resort?
@@rogerrocco5211 So many good hotels and resorts on Maui. It really depends on size, location and price range. I personally really like Honua Kai, Kaanapali Alii and the Montage in Kapalua.
The loss is staggering! Mahalo for this video. I was just there in Lahaina and could not mentally comprehend the extent of the damage. Seeing this now, I’m seeing it’s much worse than what I saw through walking and driving around. I could feel the extreme trauma that the residents are going through. My heart goes out to all of you. Where is all the ash and debris being put? Sending love, aloha and prayers for healing to all of you from Kaua’i ❤️🙏🏽❤️
I very much look forward to and appreciate these videos. Seeing the lots go from ash to dirt to gravel is gratifying. I'm very much looking forward to seeing new-build construction in the next video. Thanks from 'Arizona.
I'm so happy to see the progress that's going on there. It's definitely a positive. Thank you. I live in Fresno California, and we have had a number of wild fires here also. This gives me hope.
Wow! Still standing, white, blue, solar panel (with blue reflection), homes and buildings. Especially in areas that are heavily burnt. It’s very strange to see one house still standing and yet it’s color is blue.
@@hu_b if you read correctly, you would’ve seen blue white and those buildings and houses with solar panels that are reflecting the sky. and it is very strange that most of those buildings in the highly burned areas that are still standing and for whatever reason seem to be those three colors. but maybe your brain farted and you just couldn’t read any further.
@@dianesorensen5437 hahahaha white has been added as one of the magic colors that protects against lasers. Now add brown, green, red, tan... and all the other various colored objects that didn't burn. btw before the fire nearly half of the houses in Lahaina had solar panels 🤯🤯🤯
@@hu_b you are the only person talking about lasers and children missing. I really don’t even know why. I never brought it up. I merely made an observation about the homes and buildings in highly burnt areas which are still standing. Living in the islands as a child, I noticed that mist homes are painted earth colors and a smaller percentage of homes were ocean and sky colors, Blue and white. The newer condos are all adorned with solar panels. For me a sight of which in the older housing units I observe very little of when I visit my family there. I know for certain that none of the homes (old ones) around my son’s neighborhood have none. They still leave the windows and doors open for trade winds to blow through. You’re tripping man.
Thank you for sharing these videos of this beautiful island, and the progress. I have visited on 8 occasions from the UK , and will continue do so to support the economy. You are always in our thoughts. All the best.
Thank you so much for the video and fantastic commentary. Prayers to all the families and businesses impacted and we hope it keeps moving quickly on the rebuilding.
Thank you for your perspective and update. I watched as it happened in awe of the massive loss in such a short period of time. Our hearts are with you.
These updates are so valuable. Thank you for sharing the process, dear Jesse! We've visited Maui and Lahaina many times and it was an absolutely shock to see what's happened last year in August. We pray that the constructions will run well and that all of you will stay save, healthy and secure. We are planning to visit Maui in 2025. All the best!
Thank you very much for the video; please keep them coming! I appreciate being able to see the situation for myself, and your logistical guidance is most helpful. Even though I have walked those streets many times, I still find it hard to identify some of the places--so I listen carefully to your descriptions of what we are seeing. I am positively impressed with the cleanup efforts and am glad to hear that planning meetings are taking place. Hopefully, there is a coordinated vision of how Lahaina will "remake itself". Thank you for including facts and figures related to how many residential and commercial lots have been cleared and updates on the permitting and then construction. Great job!
It is amazing to see the progress to date. However, I wonder if the progress will slow down as residents make choices to rebuild or relocate, again many folks are still looking at another year to complete the rebuild. The question is really economic will there be jobs for these folks w/o commercial construction.
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My heart still will be with those who will never be able too rebuild their homes .
You can blaim Congress. Yet they hang out money like candy to Ukraine 350 billion. That can rebuild all of lihana
America last it seems.
@@captretired159 All the progress in recovery shown in the video must be disappointing for you America Lasters
@@hu_b Facts, Joe Biden must be seething
@@hu_b This level of progress is actually quite slow
As someone who loved visiting Lahaina Town for its historical charm and middle class vibe, I hope the State of Hawaii and local authorities will mandate a plan for rebuilding that doesn’t result in another Kaanapali complex of high rise hotels for the wealthy, pushing out all the locals! As a resident of coastal California, we know well the political influence of real estate speculators and developers working with pro-development city councils, who work in tandem to undermine the local citizen approved careful planning of city, county, state and coastal commission efforts.
beginning to understand
With tourism in mind, think about commercial developers mindset on this area pre fire, ”if only there was a clean slate to build on” or “these people won’t sell!”. My “conspiracy brain” feels like Mother Nature was assisted.
I know that Kaanapali is YES, a high rise hotel and time shares. I purchased my time share in Kaanapali...a long time ago, while staying at the ORIGINAL Kaanapali Beach Resort. I have such fond memories of that place! We sat out on our lanai every night watching the night time shows. And built a relationship with some of the employees, that we would go back and find year after year. However, circumstances were what they were, and we ended up buying at one of the bigger resorts. We have NEVER upgraded our original purchase. I just want to be able to lay near the beach, jump in a pool....and walk along the sidewalk and enjoy. It is NOT about fancy high-rise resorts. I am at the lowest value. AND now, want out of it and don't know how!!!
@@jerseydevil1ABSOLUTELY
I have some buddies that are real estate developers. They showed up in Lahaina right afterwards and made full cash offers to many folks that lost their homes. It was a very good deed and provided much needed financial support for those who lost their homes.
I pray every single day for the people of Lahina-that decisions are made with wisdom and love, not greed.
Prefab that stays on the ground & not blown away from a furious storm.
Global elites playing games with you folks do something now or we r screwed
LOL!!!!!! LIER!!!!!!!!!!!
Mahalo. I served three weeks with the American Red Cross in helping Lahaina citizens with immediate financial relief. Also serving the men and women of Maui Fire, Rescue and Police. My heart belongs to you, my Ohana.
Do you not realize that it was a DEWs attack on Lahaina??
700.00 wow that's bs
That city gov is bs
Where did all the garbage from the houses go
It went to contaminate Ola Walu, the ocean, and the mother reef
The Maria Lanakila Catholic Church with the RED ROOF in the video, (time stamp 17:20) was never touched by the Lahaina inferno fires. Even the Rectory wasn’t touched, either was the grass & palm trees on the property, they weren’t even singed! Furthermore, the inferno fire and heat that completely destroyed other properties that surrounded the Church property, the intense heat from all that surrounding destruction, didn’t even wilt the flowers on the Altar inside the Church. Lastly, Maria Lanakila stands for OUR LADY OF VICTORY!!! Ave Maria! Viva Cristo Rey!
I was surprised to see that Maria Lanakila was still standing. That’s where my wife and I got married.
@@YoureWatchingBTV_Official
That’s wonderful! God Bless You and your wife!
There is no god only fact and superstition. The building is brick with a metal roof. Stop reading into it some supernatural explanation, it's science and fact nothing else.
wow !!! Praise be to God and Blessed Mother Mary. Jesus, you are our loving allpowerful God ! 💝💖💝💘
Wow! Amazing grace!
I work in toursim in Maui and I recommend your content to EVERYONE.. Mahalo for your very informative videos. Truely the sourse for information and visiuals.
@Wendy-ov5hu Thank you !!!
We will be in Maui in 10 days.
Mahalo for keeping us updated!❤
I am so thankful for your current videos. God Bless everyone that lost everything!
With the Hawaiian Islands so far away from the Mainland, it's amazing to see how much cleanup has been done so far. I think the cleanup here is going much faster than in the 9th Ward of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. My heart still aches when seeing these drone flyovers, but so much Aloha for the People of Lahaina and glad to see a sort of normalcy slowly starting to return. Mahalo!
yeah other disasters take way longer, honestly.
Prays go out to all that lost so much. 😢😢❤❤
Hoping you'll have a new home soon.
They lost everything. Especially they native artifacts which meant everything to them. Never can be replaced ever.
I am very surprised to see how much progress has been made! For such a widespread area, it looks like the teams responsible in the rebuilding process are doing a fantastic job!
God bless the Lahaina businesses and families. Can the power lines be buried for beautification to keep power during and after storms?
The streets were barricaded near Front St and patrolled by 2 men at each intersection. Even former residents were not allowed to enter the area.
@missgretchen74 I agree. I know a lot of people wish the cleanup could go quicker but there were a ton of logistical considerations that slowed things down in the early stages. Finding a place to dispose of all the ash and debris was one of the biggest issues. I'm grateful for the progress.
@@JesseGWald where are they disposing of it all?
We will be visiting soon. Thank you for your updates. I appreciate the fact-based updates.
Why aren’t residents allowed to put up a prefab trailer or RV or even a tent on their own property? They should be able to start living on their property instead of being displaced in various locations, still having to pay their mortgage.
I agree with you 100%
Because the hotels are gonna buy up all the land. Just wait and see
Everything an official touches turns to ruin.
How would they access water, electricity and waste services?
@@lorla151 RV's have their own water and septic storage which can be emptied and refilled. Solar panels, generators, and propane can supply electricity. They are made for all those perks. At least people would be able to cook, sleep in their own beds, and be somewhat comfortable without the expense of renting.
As much as I do appreciate your update videos.... There is no way that it will be possible to rebuild Lahaina as it WAS. I TREASURE walking through every gift shop with creaky floors, and no extra flair. BUT, they were original family owned shops!! And will they EVER be able to afford to rent or own these store fronts again? It just breaks my heart to remember the shops, WITH THE MOST FRIENDLY PEOPLE. I would rather make my purchases from them. I haven't been back to Maui since the fires. Was supposed to go last year. But I don't know if I REALLY would not CRY the entire time. Feeling so much for these people. Thank you for sharing, and I HOPE that no one takes this comment as anything negative. I am a very sentimental person, I can't help it.
We have a timeshare in Maui and was there in 2021. I look back at many of the pictures I've taken and cry, knowing that such buildings as the Baldwin Museum are gone forever. We took a submarine tour in Lahaina Harbor, and seeing the aftermath. Just breaks my heart. My eyes are tearing up just writing this reply.
Ich komme aus Deutschland ,aber ich kann deine Meinung absolut nachvollziehen. Es kann nicht mehr so sein wie vor dem großen Feuer . Auch ich habe geweint als ich die Berichte im Internet gesehen habe . Es tut mir unendlich leid für die vielen Menschen , die gestorben sind 😢 und die alles verloren haben. Ich denke so viel an sie, und wie es wohl jetzt für sie weiter geht. Ich bin sehr traurig .
that was fun, just walking up and down Front Street, going into little shops with, as you said, the creaky floors. And the fancier art galleries (Friday Nite was art nite)
*Things need to be changed so the fire doesn't happen AGAIN! "Creaky floors" mean old wood that will burn easier. They need fire safe buildings, less dried vegetation, etc. People doing a better job keeping their neighborhood safe and cleaned up!
@@22lyric of course creaky floors means old wood, the buildings were old--that was the charm, it is unfortunate that they didn't have sprinklers in them due to their age.
Thank you so much!!! Our news isn’t covering recovery. Thank you again!
The MSM Has never shown any pictures of Lahaina burnt or otherwise.
My wife and I live in Miami but we have vacationed in Maui 13 times over the past 25 years. We have walked Lahaina dozens of times over the years and as devastating as the fire was, I’m happy to see all the work that has been done to bring back the area in recent months.
We continue to pray for those impacted by the fire hopefully all those families waiting to return to Lahaina to live and work will be able to ASAP.
Seeing Lahaina like that still breaks my heart, BUT is is go good to hear how hopeful YOU are. THAT is the most important thing.
These videos cheer me up seeing the progress for the people of Lahaina. Prayers for all there. The people were so wonderful when I lived there. Just the kindest place ever.
Aloha & Mahalo Jessi for the Lahaina recovery update. So grateful for your well informed report of our beloved Lahaina. Much love & Blessings!🌺
@kuuleiodowd789 Mahalo for your support !!!
Just bringing the huge volume of building materials requires enormous effort, with so many projects going at once!
I live some 4,500 miles from Lahaina and have been following your video updates for some time. This airborne series, illuminating the scope of the Lahaina tragedy and the power of the collective human response, is moving and inspiring. Many, many thanks.
God bless everyone involved in bringing back all that has been lost
Jesse: We just returned from our Condo on Kaanapali, Maui, on June 1st, and it is both heartening and amazing to see how much Progress has been made in the last 30 days, since your last major Video and Aerial photography update.
You are the most reliable resource for the rapid, positive work being done by the phenomenal Cleanup & Recovery effort. Kudos to the people of Lahaina and West Maui, the Corps of Engineers, the Red Cross, and all the volunteers who have stepped in and stepped up to drive this progress.
Keep the regular Video Updates coming. Your Videos speak volumes, and tell the truth about these inspiring Lahaina Cleanup, Recovery and Rebuilding efforts. Thank You!
Many thanks to Japan for sharing advice. 🌺
Very nice of them to cover all the expenses for that trip.
Maui was my home for 25+ years - I worked at Ka'anapali Beach Hotel for over a decade. It breaks my heart to see the devastation of my former home. I'm not going to second guess what should or should not be done for the reconstruction, but my heart will always be with those struggling to return to their beloved Lahaina. Maui No Ka Oi!
Ka'anapali Beach hotel was the hotel we stayed at my first time to Maui. Lovely hotel, we got upgraded to a full ocean front room (and that made us happy lol). That was back in the 70s, traveled back to Maui many times staying at different locations from the Hyatt to some nice vacay rental condos. Always on my mind to go back again, but now with Lahaina gone, the desire is gone.
Thank you for sharing with us. It’s good to see the progress; but my heart goes out to everyone affected by this massive tragedy.
Mahalo! It’s still very heartbreaking to see what is no longer. I have very fond memories of Lahaina only as a tourist and at the same time i am glad the progress that is made and the hope for the locals to get their homes back, hopefully sooner than later. You do great work with these regular videos and all the new info with it. Keep it going
We were there for 8 days last month and the progress was uplifting. However I still cried every time we drove by the affected areas. We live in a high fire danger area and have been evacuated many times. My heart goes out to everyone there.
Thank you very much for putting these videos on. We were there 5 years ago and fell in love with Lahaina. We were devastated when we watched the fire. So we are glad to see your videos. Progress is definitely being made. Keep up the good work, and thanks again
@nancyshelton7221 Lahaina is an easy place to Love. Thanks for your support and words of encouragement.
Thank you so much for doing this. As someone who used to live there, it is helpful and comforting to see the progress on rebuilding.
I see why some people in power are so jealous that they want to destroy that place! Looks beautiful I would love to live there if I can near the ocean!
My humble thank you to you for keeping us apprised and seeing everyone's efforts to bring life back to Lahaina.
Thank you. My family has been visiting Lahaina town for over 20 years. We have loved it and we were devastated when it burned, families lost their homes, loves lost, business just gone and worst of all the historic sites I loved the most. Your videos are great as the news tells us nothing. I think that the reconstruction is happening in good time. Such damage takes a while especially in Hawaii! I just hope the rebuilds will not be too "modern" and take away the character of the town. Narry a frown in Lahaina town!
If I had my drivers, ID like to see it built back almost exactly as it was...but with more fire protection. But that's my sentimental side. (I lived in Lahaina years ago.)
As a California resident, and a frequent visitor and lover of Maui and Lahaina, I appreciate your efforts on keeping us informed.
It is nice to see all the progress they have made clearing lots. Knowing how slow the county permitting review process has been in the past it is nice to see the focus they are putting on quickly approving fire rebuild permits. These are very informing videos.
Mahalo for showing Lahaina as it is now. I pray the recovery will continue for all affected.
Aloha and Mahalo for this beautiful view of recovery, Aloha Lahaina ❤🌺
I’m glad to see Maui is on the comeback trail keep up the wonderful work
Thank you Jessie for another informative update. You are second to none in bringing us a first hand view of the cleanup efforts. It would be great to hear what the town is going to do about its infrastructure like power, water, sewage. I never admired the insane amount of wiring that drooped from building to building on Front Street. Hopefully we will see that addressed before all the new construction starts. Mahalo
Thank you for keeping us updated. It is amazing how much progress has been done on the island despite having roughly 2000 miles of Ocean in between it and the mainland.
Mahalo Jesse for keeping all of us who love Laihaina and its residents up to date on the recovery process. I was so pleased to see how much progress has been made thus far and hope that this continues at an even more rapid pace. My husband & I are coming back to Maui in September, and plan to support the community and the businesses with our vacation $$. Please keep making these videos and posting them.
Following from Clearwater Beach Florida, thank you for the updates, the people of Lahaina are in our thoughts and prayers...
It's so good to see progress. You all are still in my prayers.
The clean up numbers are very impressive. I’m amazed how fast things are progressing, hope the building goes at a rapid pace like the cleanup. Thank you for you informative videos.
Please keep the GREAT videos "coming"... it is so wonderful for visitors to keep up with the progress.
Thank you for making this video. I am coming to Maui in September and want to be respectful of the Maui people and environment. I’ll keep watching this incredible progress. Aloha ❤
lahaina strong!, Lahaina Strong!, LAHAINA STRONG!!!! honor the past, persevere, overcome adversity, thrive and prosper!
Great job! I have been coming to Lahaina for 23 years and your tour updates has been both informative and helpful for my anxiety over the loss. Thank you!
I’m very excited about the progress! I was planning on visiting Hawaii for the 1st time in many years just before the fire! I’m now hoping to visit in the next year or so as the recovery starts to rebuild! I’m really hoping Mick Fleetwood rebuilds Fleetwood on Front Street ASAP. I think that would be a real inspiration for the town!!! I love your videos!!! Keep up the great work!!! By the way I’m so happy the Banyan Tree seems to be doing ok! Please do a specific update on its health and such ASAP. 😎🌺
Wow, lots of progress; however, noticed several large burned out trees on cleared lots. Is tree removal part of the lot clearing process?
PS - Hope one of the recommendations from Japan will be the inclusion of underground water cisterns for fire fighting. My neighborhood in Japan had these street cisterns that are automatically filled by rain and available for fire trucks to tap into during any incidents.
PS2 - Great series of videos
@williamlloyd3769 Yes, they are clearing the dead trees as part of the clean up. However many property owners are asking for the trees to be re-evaluated because they want to give them a chance to come back if they have any signs of life. It can be a challenging balance between preserving public safety and honoring the property owners wishes.
Thank you for taking the time to do this. We appreciate you!
Thank you for the update. It looks like the clean up moved quickly but rebuilding seems to be moving much slower.
As I prepare to come to Maui next week from Washington State, I have been following your videos and progress in Lahaina. It's great to see the progress in recovery, and look forward to adding revenue for the area local businesses. It matters that you do these!
We really appreciate your updates as Maui and Lahaina are special to us. We really want to see the local people to be helped in their recovery. Perhaps the rebuild will cause the building structures to be limited in how close they are to each other.
Thank you Jessie. We have been coming to Maui for over 40 years. I am happy that there is progress but I am still devastated and heart sick. ❤️🇨🇦
aloha Jesse,
I am a Maui girl and Baldwin high School 1981 graduate . sadly I no longer live on Maui. while looking through pictures on our phone. we came across your commentaries. it has been helpful to me to know what's happening in Lahaina. as you have stated multiple times. that there is so much false information being told out there. it warms my heart to know that somebody is there paying attention to what's happening. while sharing it with the rest of us. mahalo for all that you do for the Maui residents, The folks that live there and abroad. again, mahalo and aloha.
Laura
Hi Jesse,
I hope that the county is requiring Hawaiian Electric to improve the safety of the communities they serve.
I say that because i lived in California where the following wildfires were caused by power pole: The 2018 Camp Fire destroyed the town of Paradise and resulted in 85 fatalities.
2018 Dixie Fire which burned 963,390 acres Laguna Fire and the Thomas Fire.
P.G.&E. was found to have failed to safely maintain their poles.
It’s my prayer that Maui consider using this opportunity to require the Hawaiian Electric to improve the safety of the communities they serve.
I very much enjoy your updates on Lahaina’s recovery progress. Mahalo and Aloha!
Pam Kaegi
Thanks, Jesse.
Good information and I've been following your updates! I know the homes being rebuilt for the homeowners is priority #1, etc. Post-home rebuilds and when everything settles, it would be nice to have a memorial for those who have passed away during the fires...
Thanks for sharing...
Mahalo ~ D
My wife and I wpent part of 30 winters in and around Lahaina. First at Kaanapali Royal then Maui Islander, Puamana and finally Kahana condos. Many weeekdays at Wahikuli Beach, Saturdays Mai Tais at Lahaina Fish Company and Sundays at KBH brunch. We have many local friends, some of whom lost everything. We miss Lagaina and our friends there greatly buy know we won't live o\long enough to see the full rebuild. We look for your updates every day, and appreciate them greatly. We are both 86 and if we kick the bucket befor rebuild is completed, we'll be watching your updates from high above your drone. Thank you so much for the good work. Aloha, God Bless, and keep it up.
Inge and Joe Osterhout watching in Chicago
This recovery phase is so good to see. I live in Santa Rosa, Calif and experienced the Tubbs Fire of 2017. Our recovery was just a training ground for those fire rebuilds to follow. The progress made in Lahaina is impressive from my prospective. In just one year this is amazing to see. Take heart that you are all doing a hard job but it is happening and will be over. I am so glad to hear about the replanting of the trees. They are as needed as the homes. I will probably never be able to get back to my beloved Lahaina but it warms my heart to see it will come back. Thank you for this hopeful video.
Mahalo for all you do. Your passion for Lahaina and its people is helping in the recovery.
Thank you for taking the time to produce this outstanding update ....informative, comprehensive, well articulated description of the progress.
Building permits?
What about the infrastructure?
Electric
Water/ sewer
Mahalo for the update.
Building/rebuild permits are aligned with infrastructure
Reef Watchers Demand fireboat stations with water canons that reach at least the lower road Hwy
all the building standards are different. even insulation electrical water framing etc must meet new standards.
Thank you for the drone videos. It just breaks my heart to see the devastation again. I appreciate the time and effort you spent creating these images. My heart goes out to those affected by the Lahaina Fire.
Thank you Jesse for showing the progress in Lahaina.❤
Thank you for the continued update of Lahaina and surrounding areas. My thoughts and prayers are continually with the residents.
Thanks for the update Jesse. Glad to see Opukea at Lahaina complex too.
@flyingpz9704 I'm glad the video is helpful. Yes, I love Opukea too... I lived there for many years before moving to Kahoma Village.
Thank you. I am so happy to see the recovery in progress. This was such a tragedy. I will have to go back and watch your other videos as well.
We rely on you for all our updates,thank you. Lahaina born and raised (CA now), residential movement is promising but I”m concerned about the rebuilding of downtown. Will there be any effort to recapture the architectural history that made my birthplace magical and special? What about the Pioneer Inn with those wonderful balconies overlooking Front Street? Even though my family remains in north Lahaina and Kahului, I always stayed at the Pioneer twice a year just to revel in my boyhood memories. Mahalo Jesse. Your drone tours are vital to us all.
@whitescion70 Thank you for your kind words and support! It means even more coming from someone who was born and raised in Lahaina. Like you, I also hope there is a concentrated effort to recapture the architectural history that made Lahaina such a magical and special place. As soon as I hear more about the plans for Front Street, I will make sure to share.
I would like to hear from local families. Get updates on their perspective and how the process has been for them with their lot clearing, insurance coverage and insurance reimbursements, also what they look forward to with the new construction. I’m curious if the style/ innovation with drastically change, infrastructure improvements and what the community goal is for modernization. Thanks for this coverage, I had recently heard a completely different and less positive update, this was refreshing and I’m so happy for the families and small businesses owners who have some idea of when they’ll regain their properties.
Thank you for ALL of your updates. I wish things could be moving much quicker for the residents.
My heart breaks for all of those who lost their lives, loved ones, homes and businesses. I have been visiting Maui from Canada since 1996, and Lahaina was always one of my most special places. Thank you for posting this update. It is still so hard to see the devastation that the fire left in its wake, but I am trying to be positive about seeing some progress in the rebuild. I really appreciate your thoughtful commentary.
Thanks for the videos. Been coming to Maui since 94 and feel like a part of Lahaina. I hope they take their time and do the rebuild right. Make the people whose homes were lost no. ONE!
Thanks for putting these up!!!
@KT-cj5gx No problem. It helps me to heal as well.
Thank you so much for another, professional, heart felt, informative video. Please keep them coming.
Thank you for your great videos of the progress being made in Lahaina Town.
I appreciate your objective reporting. It is good to see the progress being made. My family has been been frequent visitors to Maui (Kahana) and love being there. It was heartbreaking to see the devastation this last visit. Thank you for the updates.
You are the best source by far for information about the rebuild, thank you.
@ZenWithKen I really appreciate that. I do my best to just keep it factual without all the political commentary that seems to be so common now.
Thanks for your videos to keep people informed of the ongoing progress. I think the progress made in less than a year is incredible. Hopefully homes will be rebuilt soon. Thanks Jesse.
Thank you for the updates! The progress is amazing
@26sclancy I agree. Thanks for your support.
Progress is definitely being made!
Outstanding footage and great narrative!! Thank you and looking forward to the next installment!!!!
Who is investigating the missing school children? Why aren’t people asking? Saw pictures after the fire and it appeared that the parking lot full of school buses was empty. Devastating yet no one can ask/talk about it?
Because there ARENT any "missing children". Everyone has been accounted for. You're just believing social media nonsense. I bet you read that Oprah had tunnels to hide kids too, right?
Good to see signs of life on the banyan tree.
Thank you so much for your video updates. My wife and I met on Maui in April, 1974 when I was a member of a Honolulu Symphony. The orchestra was performing with the Hawaii Opera Theater on the island on the evening of the 24th. We are celebrating our 50 anniversary in August. We are very familiar with Lahaina Town and have wonderful memories of our visits. Recovery is progressing slowly but will eventually be complete. Please keep the videos coming. Mahalo!
Oh wow ! I bet the orchestra sounded just beautiful!!!! And congratulations on 50 years !! There’s something to be said for that ! My parents celebrated 60 years last year and I’m so proud of them ! Anyways thanks for your comment. What did you play ?
❤️💯🙏
@@leanneadams2549 I was the tuba player with the orchestra. That evening we performed an opera by Verdi. Seems like yesterday! My wife was on vacation staying with a friend of another orchestra member. We were engaged 8 days after we met and married 4 months later. Wow! It sounds like a fake story but it’s true. Fate! Aloha
@rogerrocco5211 Thanks for your support and a huge congrats on your 50th anniversary!
@@JesseGWald Mahalo! It’s an incredible love story that is 50+ years in the making. We have been back several times. There probably is one more trip to Maui. What’s your favorite hotel/resort?
@@rogerrocco5211 So many good hotels and resorts on Maui. It really depends on size, location and price range. I personally really like Honua Kai, Kaanapali Alii and the Montage in Kapalua.
The loss is staggering! Mahalo for this video. I was just there in Lahaina and could not mentally comprehend the extent of the damage. Seeing this now, I’m seeing it’s much worse than what I saw through walking and driving around. I could feel the extreme trauma that the residents are going through. My heart goes out to all of you.
Where is all the ash and debris being put? Sending love, aloha and prayers for healing to all of you from Kaua’i ❤️🙏🏽❤️
I very much look forward to and appreciate these videos. Seeing the lots go from ash to dirt to gravel is gratifying. I'm very much looking forward to seeing new-build construction in the next video. Thanks from 'Arizona.
Thank you for continuing to show us the progress in Lahaina. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for the info and the updates good job 😊😊
I'm so happy to see the progress that's going on there. It's definitely a positive. Thank you. I live in Fresno California, and we have had a number of wild fires here also. This gives me hope.
Wow! Still standing, white, blue, solar panel (with blue reflection), homes and buildings. Especially in areas that are heavily burnt. It’s very strange to see one house still standing and yet it’s color is blue.
lol was it very strange to see the buildings that didn't burn that weren't blue? Have you found the children yet? Did a laser hit you in the brain?
@@hu_b if you read correctly, you would’ve seen blue white and those buildings and houses with solar panels that are reflecting the sky. and it is very strange that most of those buildings in the highly burned areas that are still standing and for whatever reason seem to be those three colors. but maybe your brain farted and you just couldn’t read any further.
@@dianesorensen5437 hahahaha white has been added as one of the magic colors that protects against lasers. Now add brown, green, red, tan... and all the other various colored objects that didn't burn. btw before the fire nearly half of the houses in Lahaina had solar panels 🤯🤯🤯
@@hu_b you are the only person talking about lasers and children missing. I really don’t even know why. I never brought it up. I merely made an observation about the homes and buildings in highly burnt areas which are still standing.
Living in the islands as a child, I noticed that mist homes are painted earth colors and a smaller percentage of homes were ocean and sky colors, Blue and white.
The newer condos are all adorned with solar panels. For me a sight of which in the older housing units I observe very little of when I visit my family there.
I know for certain that none of the homes (old ones) around my son’s neighborhood have none. They still leave the windows and doors open for trade winds to blow through.
You’re tripping man.
@@dianesorensen5437 good thing you're not one of those dimwits "duh gubmint lit duh fire frum space but i wear a blew hat so i'm safe er derp"
Thank you for sharing these videos of this beautiful island, and the progress. I have visited on 8 occasions from the UK , and will continue do so to support the economy. You are always in our thoughts. All the best.
These videos bring me hope. I think the progress is very impressive compared to how slowly it started. Please continue to keep us updated.
@dorkyvonmunchmunch9912 I agree, the speed of clean up has definitely increased.
Thank you so much for the video and fantastic commentary. Prayers to all the families and businesses impacted and we hope it keeps moving quickly on the rebuilding.
Thank you for the update. It is greatly appreciated.
@anthonygarbo8114 I am glad it is appreciated by other... it also helps me to heal.
Incredible. Blessings to all in Lahaina
As I came from Ohio, please keep these videos coming. It helps me with understanding the recovery efforts from a non-biased platform. Best wishes ...❤
Thank you for your perspective and update. I watched as it happened in awe of the massive loss in such a short period of time. Our hearts are with you.
What happen to the missing kids any update?
Same place the missing houses are
If you know about the children, they delete your comment or it doesn't show up in the comment count.
Ask the churches
There’s no missing kids. That was all false
Exactly!!!
These updates are so valuable. Thank you for sharing the process, dear Jesse! We've visited Maui and Lahaina many times and it was an absolutely shock to see what's happened last year in August. We pray that the constructions will run well and that all of you will stay save, healthy and secure. We are planning to visit Maui in 2025. All the best!
Any info on whether they're planning on moving the powerlines underground?
@davidgiles9751 Unfortunately I haven't heard plans for underground power lines...but it seems like a very logical thing to do.
Thank you very much for the video; please keep them coming! I appreciate being able to see the situation for myself, and your logistical guidance is most helpful. Even though I have walked those streets many times, I still find it hard to identify some of the places--so I listen carefully to your descriptions of what we are seeing. I am positively impressed with the cleanup efforts and am glad to hear that planning meetings are taking place. Hopefully, there is a coordinated vision of how Lahaina will "remake itself". Thank you for including facts and figures related to how many residential and commercial lots have been cleared and updates on the permitting and then construction. Great job!
It is amazing to see the progress to date. However, I wonder if the progress will slow down as residents make choices to rebuild or relocate, again many folks are still looking at another year to complete the rebuild. The question is really economic will there be jobs for these folks w/o commercial construction.
@espee9980 I agree. There is a tricky balance between prioritizing the re-build of homes but also supporting the economy with the commercial re-build.