Please LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE… It Really Helps Our Channel.
Summary & Transcript Below…
See all our shows with transcript, summary & full site search engine at. https://MauiNeutralZone.com
Maui Neutral Zone- Jason Schwartz talks about Current Events & Shares some Great Music, too 2-2-2026
(Please excuse AI’s Spelling Mistakes!) See? They’re NOT perfect!
[00:09] Introduction and Broadcast Information
- Jason Schwartz welcomes listeners to The Neutral Zone, broadcast on KAKU 88.5 FM, Maui’s community radio station, and Akaku Maui Community Media Studio, Channel 55.
- Shows are simulcast and archived at MauiNeutralZone.com with a searchable database of over 550 past shows covering diverse topics like affordable housing, Hawaiian culture, and more.
- The platform serves as a community hub encouraging open dialogue on political, social, and cultural issues, emphasizing inclusivity and shared understanding.
[01:35] Jason’s Recent Experience and Reflection on Service
- Jason recently volunteered for kitchen duty at the Mankind Project’s New Warrior Training Adventure (NWTA), a weekend event focused on men’s personal growth and emotional expression.
- The weekend involved 69 staff and 35 participants, highlighting themes of service, support, and male empowerment.
- Jason reflects on the importance of communities supporting men to be authentic and expressive, viewing this work as vital for societal well-being.
- He also notes the physical toll of the weekend but values the experience deeply.
[03:20] Contextual Social Commentary
- The weekend coincided with nationwide protests against ICE and immigration raids, notably in Minnesota where two American citizens were killed during enforcement actions.
- Jason expresses hope for de-escalation of tensions and more compassionate approaches to immigration issues.
- He observes a disconnect in American society, including low veteran participation compared to previous generations, and a general sense of social hypocrisy.
- Not specified: Specific solutions but calls for more openness, love, and cooperative social relations.
[08:37] Preview of Upcoming Interview and Lanai Visit
- Jason introduces an upcoming interview with Alberta Dejetley, a Lanai community leader connected to local development efforts.
- He reports on positive developments in Lanai, including a busy bowling alley operated without alcohol, enabling youth employment.
- Larry Ellison’s ownership of Lanai is discussed as a potential catalyst for innovative, sustainable community projects, with Jason hopeful about replicable demonstration models in Maui County.
- He contrasts local ownership capacity with broader trends of wealthy individuals holding land in Maui, emphasizing Ellison’s potential role in positive change.
[11:13] Interview with Victor Manzano: Agriculture and Moringa Farming
- Victor Mangano, a 99-year-old resident of Kihei for 35+ years, joins the show.
- Background: Victor worked 34 years for the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines as an extension agriculturist and university-trained expert.
- After arriving in Maui, Victor managed the farm at Lahainaluna High School for over 11 years before retirement.
- Victor remains active in the community, offering agricultural advice and promoting organic farming practices.
- He established a Moringa plantation in Maui, producing organic Moringa capsules, a superfood with growing local demand.
- Victor’s expertise is framed as a valuable resource for local farmers and the community.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Victor Mangano’s Age | 99 years old |
| Years in Maui | ~35 years |
| Prior Experience | 34 years, Dept. of Agriculture, Philippines |
| Role in Maui | Farm manager, Lahainaluna High School (11+ years) |
| Current Activity | Agricultural consulting, organic Moringa farming |
| Moringa Products | Capsules and powder, available locally |
[17:40] Moringa as a Superfood and Organic Farming in Maui
- Victor confirms good potential for organic crops in Maui and notes the success of his Moringa plantation.
- Moringa capsules were already popular in the Philippines before being introduced locally.
- The interview includes practical insights into farming and community health benefits from organic agriculture.
[22:19] Jason’s Personal Journey and Media Work
- Jason recounts his 35-year involvement with Akaku Maui Community Media, beginning as a producer.
- He credits key figures like Fred Ruge, a Korean War veteran and advocate for veterans and Japanese American WWII soldiers, for mentoring and opportunities.
- Jason highlights the importance of public access media as a platform for diverse voices and ideas.
- He stresses nonpartisan openness, interviewing guests across political and ideological spectrums to foster constructive dialogue.
- FCC regulations occasionally limit content but Jason strives to maintain an open forum.
[26:28] Challenges in Advancing Ideas and Political Involvement
- Despite many years of sharing ideas, Jason notes slow progress in turning concepts into action, partly due to lack of funding and political dynamics.
- He formerly ran as a Green Party candidate in West Maui, gaining 11% of the vote but not winning office.
- Political shifts and local leadership changes have influenced community development trajectories.
- Jason expresses optimism that current economic and technological conditions favor new demonstration projects in Maui County.
[28:56] Vision for Demonstration Community Projects
- Jason envisions a demonstration community led by a single owner with capacity to implement innovative, sustainable, and community-focused models.
- Emphasis on improving quality of life, environmental sustainability, and replicability of successful methods.
- Such projects could serve as national and global examples of alternatives to current social and economic systems.
- This aligns with broader goals of cooperation, support, and integration among diverse groups.
[30:25] Reflection on Global Integration and Social Cooperation
- Jason recounts meeting a man from Mexico City who has participated in 49 New Warrior Training Adventures worldwide, reflecting global interconnectedness.
- He underscores the need for economic systems that support all without undermining capitalism or social norms.
- The show acts as a platform for sharing stories of individuals contributing to community resilience and positive change.
[31:50] Music and Cultural Highlights
- Jason introduces songs celebrating fun, cultural identity, and gratitude:
- Ministry of Fun by Mele Willow, inspired by Lili Townsend, promoting the idea that work and life should be enjoyable.
- Gracias Señor by Ames and Mary Ann Anderson, a tribute to immigrant workers and their contributions to society, with lyrics in Spanish and English expressing gratitude and respect.
- Maui Stylin’ by Lono, a song about community spirit, Hawaiian culture, and mutual support across Maui’s diverse regions.
- Peace in Our Hearts by Louise Lambert, a call for global and local peace beginning with individual transformation and mutual respect.
- Pu’uhoku by Lono, a reflective and affectionate song about Maui’s natural beauty and enduring friendship.
[35:00] Musical Context and Local Artist Appreciation
- Jason shares background on local musicians Ames and Mary Ann Anderson, originally from California, known for the Simple Pleasures Band.
- He highlights the cultural significance of their music in local communities and immigrant experiences.
- The music selections emphasize community values, peace, and cultural pride.
[46:38] Closing Reflections on Hawaiian Culture and Immigration
- Jason expresses deep appreciation for Hawaiian culture and the local Hawaiian people.
- He acknowledges the complex history of immigration and settlement in Hawaii, noting that some Hawaiians perceive mainland Americans as immigrants to their land.
- Emphasizes mutual respect and understanding among diverse community members.
[56:09] Conclusion and Call to Engagement
- Jason thanks listeners for joining The Neutral Zone.
- Encourages exploring the Moringa interview and upcoming shows on MauiNeutralZone.com.
- Invites continued community participation and shared efforts toward positive social and environmental outcomes.
- Ends with aloha and blessings to the global community.
Key Insights
- Community media like The Neutral Zone serves as a critical platform for dialogue, cultural exchange, and political discourse in Maui.
- Mankind Project’s NWTA exemplifies efforts to support men’s emotional health and expression.
- Immigration and social justice remain pressing issues, with ongoing protests and calls for compassionate responses.
- Larry Ellison’s ownership of Lanai might enable innovative community development projects with replicable sustainability models.
- Victor Mangano’s agricultural expertise, particularly in organic Moringa farming, represents valuable local knowledge bridging global and local food systems.
- Music plays a vital role in expressing cultural identity, community values, and social messages in Maui.
- Jason’s personal journey highlights the challenges and potential of grassroots media activism and community engagement.
Timeline Table
| Timestamp | Event/Topic |
|---|---|
| 00:09 | Show introduction and broadcast details |
| 01:35 | Jason’s participation in Mankind Project NWTA |
| 04:29 | Discussion of ICE protests and immigration |
| 08:37 | Preview of Lanai visit and interview with Alberta DeGietli |
| 11:13 | Start of interview with Victor Manzano |
| 17:40 | Discussion on Moringa farming and organic crops |
| 22:19 | Jason’s media career and public access TV work |
| 26:28 | Political reflections and challenges |
| 28:56 | Vision for sustainable community demonstration |
| 31:50 | Music segments introduction |
| 46:38 | Reflections on Hawaiian culture and immigration |
| 56:09 | Show conclusion and call to action |
Glossary and Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Mankind Project (MKP) | A global nonprofit organization offering personal growth programs for men, including NWTA. |
| NWTA | New Warrior Training Adventure, a weekend initiation and growth experience for men. |
| Moringa | A nutrient-rich plant considered a superfood, used in organic farming and health products. |
| Akaku | Maui’s community media organization offering access television and radio services. |
| ICE | U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, involved in immigration enforcement and raids. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the Mankind Project NWTA?
A: It is a weekend personal growth program focusing on emotional expression and support for men, involving staff and participants from across the country.
Q: Who is Victor Mangano?
A: A 99-year-old agriculturist from the Philippines with 34 years’ experience in agricultural extension work, now living in Maui and running an organic Moringa farm.
Q: What is Moringa and why is it important?
A: Moringa is a superfood plant with significant nutritional benefits, increasingly cultivated organically in Maui under Victor’s guidance.
Q: How does Larry Ellison factor into Maui’s development?
A: As the owner of Lanai and other properties, Ellison has potential to fund and implement sustainable, innovative community projects on the islands.
Q: What role does music play in The Neutral Zone?
A: Music is used to celebrate cultural identity, promote social messages of peace and gratitude, and connect diverse community members.
This summary encapsulates the core content and themes of the broadcast while preserving the chronological flow and key details for clarity and credibility.
00:09
Good morning everyone!
00:18
Aloha, everyone. This is Jason Schwartz, your host here at The Neutral Zone. MauiNeutralZone.com. We are in KAKU, 88.5 FM, the voice of Maui, nestled in Akaku, Maui Community Media Studio, Channel 55. We’re also simulcast on there.
00:40
Right now and again Saturday at 11 a.m. You can find all this and all our past shows up on MauiNeutralZone.com And then you’ll see it or you just put it in the search engine. That’s a site-wide search engine. Better than 550 shows up there. So if you say affordable housing. What about Joe Souki? Lyons Naone?
01:11
Hawaiian culture, anything you want. Up comes, anytime it was spoken in the last 550 shows we have up there. There are more, and everything can be found on YouTube, but it’s nice to know that we have a directory, sort of like someone took a pile of our old shows, Jim Carey is his name, and turned it into a library that’s searchable. So all the subjects we’ve been speaking about
01:35
Well, now I can’t almost believe that I’ve been doing TV shows here for 30 years with 30 years plus. All that subject, all the political chatter. I’ve done a lot of shows up close and personal over 15 or 16. God knows election cycles. I just came back from a weekend of kitchen duty. I volunteered. They called me M.O.S.,
02:02
A man of service. And there was a crew of seven of us, led by Robert Sinclair. And many of you who don’t know him, he was the chief guy at Matteo’s restaurant there in Wailea. Now he’s retired, lives on the Big Island. Beautiful guy. We had a small but mighty crew, and we had a…
02:22
69 staff and 35 participants in the Mankind Project’s NWTA, New Warrior Training Adventure. People that look up on the website, Mankind Project, I think, mkp.org, both of those. You’ll find it and see what the whole thing’s about.
02:42
Man of service who at 70, almost 75 in April, immediately from feeling like a young and virile, I can keep up 75. I was keeping up, but at the end, boy, was I tired. But it was a wonderful weekend. Blessings to Mankind Project, to all the men that are new initiates.
03:01
and also the men that were staffed there. Good thing to check out why the whole world doesn’t have a goal of being supportive and helping men stay, stay, if you will, be themselves and be fully expressive inside and out.
03:20
Anyway, that was a wonderful thing to be doing, but I’m tired. So what I did was I went into the studio, into the field. Maui’s quite a field to be in. All you around the world will see when I say I’m into the field. Like, what does that mean? That means that I wasn’t here in the studio. I went to see Victor Mangano, Victor Mangano.
03:43
a gentleman who’s 99 years old lives in kihei been here 35 years 35 years and in the philippines he was running the whole agriculture thing and was also you know a university guy there knows a heck of a lot about farming and phyllis robinson who is doing a farmer apprentice training um
04:11
Said to me, Jason, you know, I’ve met some farmers over the years. One really great guy that I’ve met that I think is really important to speak to is Victor. So Victor is on with me. You’re going to hear that it’s about 35 minutes long, so I have a little time to schmooze and talk up front.
04:29
I can’t go past this February 2nd date, 2026, without noticing that Saturday, while I was up there in Mankind Project, in 50 cities across this country, zillions, that’s a little overestimated, sort of like a Donald Trump crowd,
04:47
Anyway, to be continued, there was protests about ICE and demanding ICE get out. That’s the immigration raids. Minnesota is the most celebrated and horror-filled, and the two American citizens were killed. Murdered is sometimes used here. Anyway, there was major protests. I hope all of that can get…
05:14
de-escalated and we can learn that you know this weekend one guy got up and started crying and sharing how in that world we had people from all over the world 69 staff why do all those people want to be on staff
05:31
for a 35 people group that got together because Mankind Project I almost think it feels like to me like the Masons or a group I don’t know any of these other groups but I know that a goal to have people all around the world be equal and we all are the same
05:49
I wish the world would understand that in a little better way and be supportive of each other like I experienced and have continued to experience in people that have gone through this mankind project and other things too. But I just happened to go through it and it’s the weekend of protest against Donald Trump.
06:11
And the ICE, it’s not really Donald Trump. It’s, you know, immigration being handled by these raiding groups that are masked and going into communities and creating an upheaval. And again.
06:28
We’ll see what the news reports and how it all relates to what really happens. But I know that I would hope that the world could reorient and be more open and loving and giving. At least in the world that I live and the world that we live and that we can share, we can celebrate life and sharing and a world community, you know.
06:55
And the environment suddenly becomes important, and our social interactions become most important, the way we treat each other. You know, we’re such a hypocritical group here in the United States as a whole. And in that group, you know, they said, okay, they were raising the American flag, and they said, how many of you guys are veterans?
07:16
And I was shocked to see how very few, used to be everyone was in the military, and then it became optional, and so very few actually participated in the military. Sort of like in my mankind world, very few of the people probably have participated in being an MOS and realize you’re not participating in any of the weekend except preparing the food. That is service. It was a workout. But Americans not enrolling in military…
07:45
um what do they say if there’s a war i think we’ll all feel conscripted and know how to and be ready to defend you know but not offend about defend but we don’t want to get there because we can look like in the neutral zone we let everyone here talk about what they want when they want and then we’re not here with weapons i carry no sword
08:14
There’s no reason. They say use your sword when you need it. Yeah, when we don’t need it. It’s a neutral zone. Everyone’s trying to break up this situation where we can all come together on things because we find after talking we have lots of commonalities and we begin to work on the smaller, finer points that can fall away.
08:37
And live a happy and progressed life and save our planet and all the rest of that stuff that sounds so unreachable is reachable. Speaking of reachable, coming up is going to be an interview I did with Alberta, going to be Alberta DeGietli. I went over to Lanai and had a wonderful experience over there.
08:57
In fact, the bowling alley, when I went there, a guy named Christian, who also runs the Hotel Lanai, I guess has a lease, all that stuff owned by Larry Ellison, he built the bowling alley.
09:12
Four lanes was super. They told me that wasn’t crowded. It was very full and busy and they had no alcohol on the premises. So they’re able to hire younger people. What a wonderful, wonderful experience. All of the night and all the things they’re doing over there. So we’re going to have an interview with Alberta coming up.
09:32
But I already got to travel around and see the real good that Larry Ellison has been doing there. And I haven’t really anything yet to do with Larry Ellison. I heard from a gentleman I met on the weekend that he met him when he was in Malaya and Larry Ellison came over on his boat, one of his boats, I guess, to pick up meals for his crew. He’s a very nice man.
09:57
I look forward to having him see what we’re doing. And we can create a demonstration community in Maui County and have one owner who, because he’s the owner, has the capacity, he has the personal capacity, has the capacity to do it. So good ideas can be put into action if they make good sense.
10:16
And we have someone who can help fund it. We don’t have to go looking for grants because here’s an owner who could see the wisdom and take action. What a fantastic way to duplicate great things. If there’s anyone in the news recently, you know, we hear about Jeff Bezos, Peter Thiel, all these other very wealthy people that have pieces of Maui County.
10:41
Larry Ellison has an island, but I was very impressed with what I saw, but also the feeling that I got there from the people that I spoke to about.
10:52
the lanai in the whole trip anyway let’s see oh we have plenty of time we have a show coming about 33 minutes it has an opening credit of one of our supporters and then music you’ll hear of the show and then we’re going to start the interview
11:13
Anyway, please enjoy. This is an interview with Victor Mangiano. And this is a story, well, he’ll tell you. It’s about Moringa and the beginnings, or maybe not initially, of the Maui Organic Moringa Farm.
11:34
It’s not exciting. So here we go. I’m going to get it up on my… Here it is. There we are. That’s our…
11:54
People aligned in positive action. That’s us, Dream Maui. And now, The Neutral Zone. We’ve been trying and playing with AI, with Grok, and seeing ways to have fun with the opening of the show. And here we are. Please enjoy. Victor Maggiano, me, earlier here in January.
12:23
Aloha everyone. This is Jason Schwartz. I’m here in the field. What a field. Maui. Mauineutralzone.com. I am often in the studio on Mondays, but I know what it means to go out into the field because we have a very rich field here in Maui. And in this rich field,
12:44
my friend Phyllis Robinson who works with new farmers and some of her young new farmers and all the people she’s met over the years on occasion I’ve met some gems and what she said to me was
13:01
Jason, this gentleman is great. Victor, what’s your last name? Manzano. Spell for me. M-A-N-Z-A-N-O. Manzano. Manzano. And you lived here in Kihei a while? Yes, almost 35 years now that I’ve been here. 35 years? Now, I understand you didn’t come here empty-handed. What were you doing before you got here? Oh, I was a…
13:31
One quick moment. Could you put that fan off, please? Thank you. No, it’s on the back of the thing. There it is. Just one turn. Good, perfect. Ah, that’ll help. So before you came to Maui, I just turned the fan off. So before you came to Maui, what were you doing? I was…
13:59
working for the Department of Agriculture in the Philippines. Oh! What did you do there? Well, there were so many positions that were given to me until I came here to
14:18
United States. So were you more a scientist or more in the field learning a little of each? Yes, well, I am an agriculturist, and I really work as an extension man, agricultural extension man, going from province to barrio to barrio, or we call that a little village, going to the province.
14:48
and I was also given a specialist position before I left.
14:54
Yeah, coming to the United States. So let me see if I can put it in perspective for me. Were you at the university there? Yes. You had a degree of some sort? Yeah, I have that bachelor’s degree in agriculture. Okay, from university, I guess. Of the Philippines. Of the Philippines. And then you used it, how many years were you working there? Thirty years? Thirty-four years. Thirty-four. That’s before you came here, right? Yes. Wow. So here you came to Little Maui.
15:23
I feel very honored. I bet if I want to grow a plant on my balcony, you can tell me. So you’ve been helping villages of people learn how to grow effectively for a long time. So I can see where Phyllis Robinson would say, ah, this is a gemstone. This man knows how to make everything grow. Now, we’re going to get more specific, but
15:52
What do you think of what you’ve seen here on Maui all these years? You see anything that… Oh yes, there is really a great potential when I came here where I landed a job at Lahaina Luna High School as a farm manager. Then after 11 years, 11 and a half years as a farm manager at Lahaina Luna High School, I retired and come here to
16:22
We’re also participating in a radio station, announcing to the people that if they need my help as an agriculturist, I could always help them. You’re still doing this? Oh, yes. So let me ask easily. Do you mind putting out your email address for everyone? Sure. So be here. What is your email address?
16:48
I cannot remember right now. Okay. I’ll put it right on the screen. No one worries, you see. When someone thinks that we have the magic of television. Boop! There it is. It’s going to be on screen. Okay. So you have a website that you use, too, or no? Oh, yes. I have a website. We’ll have that up on also. Let me see. I have a website in here, but I have not printed it for a long time already, you know.
17:14
Let me just see. So are you on the radio here? MoringaSuperfoodMaui.com. Does that sound right? Moringa, M-O-R-I-N-G-A. Obviously, you’re somehow interested in moringa, organic. So tell me, everything that you’ve seen, do we have a pretty good organic crop on this island of everything? Oh, yes. We do. Before…
17:40
I established the moringa plantation here at Maui. I was already making a moringa product in the Philippines capsule and it was a great demand of this capsule.
17:57
Yeah. People make their own caps up? Yeah. Or you do both ways? This is the capsule, yeah. You can buy it both ways? Oh, yes. I don’t want to block this camera. Okay. Well, we’re going to take a snapshot of these. You’ll be seeing them on the screen, you guys. So… You can find them up on the website. It is really a sober… Well, I have read that many times in the…
18:27
That’s called, it’s on a telephone and it is having what’s called, it’s loading the next piece. See if I was doing this show, otherwise you who will watch television won’t notice it because I am going to correct this and everyone, you can go watch it again up on the web and you’ll see it exactly the way it should be. A continual interview that doesn’t have pauses like this.
18:57
You really won’t find it on Akaku because we have it on our website. So that’s where you find all our shows. But when it’s live, you’ll hear it on Akaku, Maui Community Media, Channel 55, tomorrow morning, 7 a.m.? Saturday, 7 a.m. And like I say, mauineutralzone.com. Taking a long time to load here, Internet.
19:23
This phone thing. That’s what they call buffer. Wow, my phone is going down in power, but that’s because it’s running a show. Well, you can see why I decided that I should let this play and where I’d come in rather than not. I’m pretty tired from this weekend, but thought it was a wise idea to come in.
19:50
This kind of stuff on TV, you won’t be seeing this. Once I go home, do the editing, put the credits on, all the stuff I do for the world. But here at Akaku, you won’t. Obviously, this is live, so we have live. Well, it’s going to continue in a minute. I may just decide to kill it here if it takes too much longer. And you can always go up and watch it there, but it will be on here.
20:16
Next week I have Tom Lenovo. You’re going to like that. That’s really a good show. But one of these weeks soon. Plus, again, it’s going to be up at MauiNeutralZone.com. So you don’t have to wonder where to find it at Akaku. You won’t see it there on the website. But KAKU Radio.
20:36
I guess we’ll send them a copy of the show that I recreate for them to use if they want in the place there. This is crazy. I’m going to just close it and stop it.
20:55
All right, let’s see. 35 minutes. Well, you got 35 more minutes of me. I bet I can fill up 35 minutes with a lot of good things, including fun. Anyway, I’m also very excited about this Moringa plantation. Maui Organic…
21:12
Moringa. I’m really glad to know that. I guess it’s been here, but now it’s going to be getting more visible and teaching people about Moringa. M-O-R-I-N-G-A. Well worthwhile to look up. You’re going to see a show coming up again from us, but it’s up there right now. And
21:35
I’m very excited to be introducing a superfood. One thing I can tell you though, when I think of the people that I know from Hawaii, and I stand them next to people around the world, and even those that are not really very conscious of what they’re doing here. Hawaii, you know, is a youthening thing. Somehow living in this kind of climate,
21:59
And the kind of environment that I’ve been able to enjoy for half of my life. I’m just, I’m amazed I’m 75 and feeling still very thankful that I’m healthy. I have a beautiful and wonderful partner in Ariel. And that I’ve been able to be in this giving role forever.
22:19
Incredibly, for 35 years, I started here working at Akaku. Never. I was a producer that came out of classes that Akaku had when they first opened the station.
22:35
And so I was very blessed to be in that first group that out of 225 in the lottery, I was number 17. I thought, I’m never going to get an opportunity to take this with all the people wanting this unless I just jump and do it. And I did. And then Fred Ruge, R-U-G-E. Fred Ruge was a wonderful man. May he rest in peace. Many veterans here know him. He was a real champion of the…
23:03
Japanese Americans that fought in World War II, the 442 group. And he was a Korean veteran and really a strong advocate for them. But he also was always helping veterans all these years.
23:21
Fred Houston baseball team up in Seattle. He was a very interesting man. He said, hey, Jason, you can qualify for a show if you come help me a little while. We’re doing the Maui Symphony Orchestra. Okay. So I got to go into the MAC and go to the back and meet the people and met a guy that I
23:42
didn’t know him but he was on the in the music business and i was around there and jackson brown years ago rusty who ran the back of the mac in fact in 2011 i think it was dalibor mclauchage came from serbia and serbia out there in yugoslavia i don’t even know what to call it these days belgrade he plays all through europe he plays with his hands and his feet on a piano
24:10
Did you know that Mozart created music with his hands and his feet with a second keyboard down below? Well, Dalibor traveled all through Europe doing this. We needed to get a piano on Maui. That was his standards. And no one could find one. And then I called Rusty. He said, well, why don’t you come out? We did a show. You can see it there at the Neutral Zone site, mauineutralzone.com.
24:33
You’ll see the interview, full transcript. What a wonderful experience it’s been to be serving Maui all these years from a platform of public access television. Incredibly important thing in our community, and I hope to use it, continue to use it responsibly to be able to provide a place for all voices to be heard,
24:55
When I was doing interviews, I was interviewing Greens and Democrats and Republicans and Liberals and couldn’t matter. Because I, again, I’m interested in making things better. And I take that from every guest I have and look for the good. And if there’s bad, I let them bring it out and have the public that you decide what you think.
25:20
We’ve had guests from all over the world, some here in studio and some on different forms of online Zoom and a lot of the different platforms. But it’s been a pleasure. I’ve had really no one telling me not to, except the FCC when they say, just like George Carlin used to say about them, you cannot say these words. There are seven words.
25:46
And I have guests that somehow use them liberally, and I have to cut them out or stop them. But anyway, it’s been a pleasure to be here with you, and today’s another one. And we have technical difficulties. If it was early on, I would have panicked and said, can I sit there and talk for an hour? I found the people in my life say, Jason, you fill in every spot with some kind of talking. It’s like…
26:12
The world isn’t that way. People think and sit. So I recognize I’m filling up the airways because I don’t want to have dead air. Dead air to our listeners on radio or television.
26:28
Well, you know I’m excited about just where we’re at. I never did understand why the ideas that I’ve been sharing for so many years here on Maui haven’t gotten out further and haven’t been
26:43
what do we say, accelerated toward action. And I think it’s mostly because I’ve been an unfunded guy and bringing up ideas and because I ran in early times as a political, not really activist, I was a Green Party candidate in West Maui. And I remember Butch Suarez when he said to me, Jason, I’m Republican. I would have won this election against Dennis Nakamura, but you got 11% of the vote.
27:13
I was a big Green Party, 11% of the vote. I don’t think the people that voted for me would have voted for him, except Dennis was relatively inexperienced and became the choice when Howard Cahooni, who was the chairman of the council,
27:32
in sudden moments, decided to not run again, which some of the people in more recent years have said, well, that’s right, he shouldn’t be running all these years, just like now. We don’t want anyone to run and run and run and run and run. Goro Okama, Ricky Okama’s dad, was on council, seemed like a small eternity.
27:56
Well, that representation, Lanai then passed over to Rikki Hokamo, which is amazing. That’s how I met Alberta Dugetli. She was a candidate at the time. Her husband passed away. He was the manager of the Hana Hotel. She moved back to Lanai and…
28:16
has been there was running their newspaper and then sold it to Larry Ellison here in recent years so when I called her up that tied in and brings all the ideas that have been I want to say waiting to be but things have changed and improved over the years where the economic things make sense on a lot of technologies and ways of being that weren’t before so
28:46
I feel that this is a time of the potential birthing of a demonstration project with a community
28:56
by an owner who has the capacity to improve his bottom line, but also be that great example for the United States and for the world of alternatives to some of the things that we’re doing now and methods that we’re using now. I’m not talking about law enforcement, things like that. I’m not talking about big business. I’m talking about…
29:23
way of life and business and technologies that improve the quality of our life. And if this were to be implemented in scale, could save our planet. So I hope everyone is listening hard and will share this show and other shows and see if we can all be supportive of what we’re doing to be an example to the world of some better ways of accomplishing things we need to do
29:53
that are
29:55
impacting locally and can be duplicated just like you heard victor in that interview you can hear about moranga you know it’s like go to a village and teach them how to grow well we could be an example to the world in so many beautiful ways right on that’s why and i came from a mankind weekend mankind project weekend so i’m just full of appreciation and understanding
30:25
for the notions of cooperation and being supportive of each other. Men and women and children and greens and blues. There was a man from Mexico City who’s done 49 of these. 49 new warrior training adventures all over the world. And he says he now lives in a suburb of Mexico City called Chicago.
30:53
The world is integrated and immigration and all that stuff. Now, if we would figure out systems that would work economically and not feel like we’re taking away capitalism or destroying social mores or in some way creating something that isn’t supportive of everyone,
31:17
But that’s not what we’re doing. And you’ll hear about that if you have it. If you look at our shows, you’re going to see many people who are the fabric, just like you, are the fabric of the potential of what we can do. Right? So I’m just very excited about that. Rather than me talking for a half hour, I’m going to give you some of my personal hit parade. You’ve heard some of these before. Here’s what I’m going to record.
31:46
And I really like this one.
31:50
This is a song called Ministry of Fun. Years ago, Arielle interviewed Lili Townsend. In fact, I think this last year, this artist named Jet, I don’t know her last name, Jet did a picture of Lili Townsend that won some contest. It was sitting in the Schaefer Gallery here earlier. It was last year. But Lili Townsend, why did I bring her up?
32:20
See what happens? I’m getting a little buggy from this weekend. Anyway, this song is called Ministry of Fun because Lili is the minister of fun who’s been spreading a concept. If it’s not fun, don’t do it. If you gotta do it, make it fun. Here’s a song by Melee Willow called Ministry of Fun. If it’s not fun
32:47
don’t do it if it’s not fun don’t do it but if you gotta do make it fun make it fun make it fun
33:02
If it’s not fun, don’t do it. If it’s not fun, don’t do it. But if you gotta do it.
33:32
You don’t have to work hard. You just work to be a part of it.
34:02
This ministry of fun And you know we’ll get it done
34:11
If it’s not fun, don’t do it If it’s not fun, don’t do it But if you gotta do it Make it fun, make it fun, make it fun We got a one-to-one connection to the one One-to-one action with the one, so If you’re feeling kinda down now
34:38
That love is all around, it’s in the trees and in the air In fact, it’s absolutely everywhere We are a one-to-one connection with the one, oh yeah One-to-one connection with the one, oh yeah We are a one-to-one connection with the one, oh yeah One-to-one connection with the one, oh yeah
35:07
Wow. Ministry of Fun by Melee Willow. I’m going to record that with some local musicians here. Speaking of recording with local musicians.
35:19
Mary Ann and Ames Anderson. What a story they are. They are wonderful people. Around this island, you’ve seen Simple Pleasures Band. That’s them. Ames and Mary Ann came from California. In fact, you guys saw them on the show here. And this song, Gracias Señor, was, in fact, adopted by some group here recently.
35:45
introduced to them by our guest for next week small world and uh…
35:52
It’s called Gracias Senor. And as you hear it, you’ll hear a praise and tribute. They were making, Ames wrote it. He was making a tribute to his worker who allowed him to come and be more here in Hawaii, which is the story. But as things got going in this country, this song relates to really appreciating someone who came to this country to make his family better. Listen to this beautiful song.
36:30
I got to see the background of Larry Oaks and others. Gracias, Señor, por lo que ha dado Su honestidad
36:59
You came here to work hard for you and your family.
37:29
You have done as you said, to your word you’ve stayed true. This country is stronger for the strength you have given. For all you have given to me, my thanks I give to you.
38:24
Cuídese amigo mío, cuida su esposa y su hijo. Trabaja duro por una vida mejor. Por usted, su familia aquí y su familia en México. Gracias hasta la vista y vaya.
39:28
to work hard for you and your family. You have done as you said to the word you’ve stayed true. This country is stronger for the strength you have given.
39:49
For all you have given to me, my thanks I give to you. Gracias, Señor, por lo que ha dado. Gracias, Señora, por lo que ha hecho.
40:20
Gracias Señoras por lo que han hecho Gracias Señor Gracias Señor Gracias Señor
40:47
Thank you, Ames and Marianne. Gracias, senor. Gracias, senor. Thank you, immigrants, for all that you’ve given us. Gracias, senor. And the world. We’re all immigrants, are we not? Many are. Gracias, senor.
41:10
Thank you, guys. Last night with the Grammys, I understand it was… Again, I was pushed from working all weekend. You know, people that are working and doing all these jobs, we should have… That’s another show. Let me forget that. But…
41:30
Consider it that that was really a beautiful song. I’m really glad that a group is adopting it to use for a broader sense than the original beautifully written song. Thank you, Ames. Thank you, Marianne. Now, I have 15 minutes to go, and I’m thinking, okay, which songs do I want to play of some of my favorites?
41:51
I’m looking at, you know, this show started years ago when I interviewed my friend Lono. Lono, let me come up and jump and sing with him. And there was one of his songs that we cut down to be the opening song when we were doing shows, Maui Stylin’. And it is a song about…
42:15
you’ll hear it about different canoe clubs and how working together but it is just a song that i’ve always loved we loved and you guys have loved all these years it’s maui styling by lono no matter where you go no matter what you do take that maui style with you cause if you ain’t maui styling you just living on an island
42:41
Maui’s Thailand, don’t let me down Maui’s Thailand, don’t let me down Maui’s Thailand, don’t let me down Maui’s Thailand, don’t let me down There is sunshine in your heart It’s been with you from the start Lift your head Look to the heaven
43:12
Then you will feel brand new again Don’t stop me now Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Reach out your hand and help each other
43:38
Your mother, your father, your sister and brother There is love in this family Pick yourself up
43:52
And get on your feet Don’t stop me now Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Maui style it, don’t let me down Pōkela style it Nakaibalu style it Hawaiian style it Hiei style it
44:22
Don’t stop me now, Maui’s styling.
44:48
We’ll all reach the finish line The six of us, no one left behind We’re all winners, no matter what When there is love in your Maui heart Don’t stop me now, Maui style it Don’t let me down
45:16
Maui’s styling, don’t let me down. Maui’s styling, don’t let me down. Maui’s styling, don’t let me down. Makenna’s styling. Upcountry’s styling. Kapo’s styling. Kahana public’s styling. Hana’s styling. Waiehu’s styling.
45:44
Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye. Bye.
46:17
Maui Stylin’ Wow, Maui Stylin’ by Lono. Thank you, Lono. Lono is just a wonderful guy. He’s now been over in Molokai for a number of years teaching ukulele at Ukulele Camp. Wonderful guy, wonderful performer, wonderful person.
46:38
We’ve been friends. You know, I have felt such a closeness and I want to say appreciation for the Hawaiian culture over the years and the Hawaiian people over the years. I hope that we all can be as appreciative of each other. Here in this area, we don’t have immigrants. The immigrants, the Hawaiians think these people, they were Americans that moved into their area here. Yeah, that’s a whole different story, isn’t it?
47:08
Anyway, thank you, Lono, for that song. You know, when I only have nine minutes and I have so much beautiful music, it’s like, okay, what do I play? I know. This is a song I really love. I played it before. Louise Lambert’s written many great songs. But peace in our hearts. I want to record this one, too. Every day. Every day. Worlds are born. Every day. And worlds die away.
47:42
Seems like now the world’s so small We see it all right here on our TV
47:58
Seems like the more we bridge the distance The harder it becomes for us to see Of all the worlds, a stage for actors in a play With an ancient script of fear and doubt and greed
48:20
To write another page To find a better way Reverence for life is what we need For peace in our world For peace in our country For peace on the street Peace in our hearts And it starts with peace in our hearts
48:57
We fear the dark We’re mortgaged all our future To keep the hooded horsemen from the door We’re talking peace But building bigger weapons Always closer than it ever was before But in the land of the free And the home of the brave
49:23
Why do so many people need a gun? If it were just you and me, the world could be safe. If deep inside, we know what must be done for peace in our world. For peace in our country. For peace on our streets.
49:53
Starts with a piece in our hearts Seems like there’s something we can do
50:20
We’ve got something real close to home As we say life through the eyes of a child We’ll find again the truth we’ve always known For peace in our world For peace in our country
50:53
in our hearts
51:23
peace in our hearts well we only have five minutes left and i’m trying to think which one do i want to play for you guys so many beautiful ones so many great songs in this world and that we’re going to bring again i think
51:43
With only a few minutes left, I’m going to play another song by Lono that Lono is singing. It’s called Pu’uhoku. It’s from years ago. He’s still recording and writing, but this is a beautiful song. In English. In English.
52:14
I set my eyes on the mountainside. Can I be there? Can I be with you? We climb high into the clouds. Build a sandcastle, walk the shoreline. Can I be there? Can I be with you? Look across.
52:44
Call all of it Oh, McKenna
52:50
Nevertheless, never second best Maui, I love you too You’re always on my mind Destiny will find You’ve made a friend in me And I’ll be yours forever guitar solo
53:18
A lava valley I have seen And when I dream, I dream of you See the waterfall flow
53:33
to the sea it once was called we drove the cattle we worked the land looking over
53:50
Oh, Molokai. Molokai. Nevertheless, never second best. Molokai. I love you too. You’re always on my mind. Destiny will find you’ve made a friend in me. And I’ll be yours forever.
54:22
Come to Maui Watch the sunset Just once You’ll be amazed Watch the stars So brightly shining For you and me So from the shoreline Of this island Can I be there Can I be with you Aloha
54:51
Oh, Maui. Nevertheless, never second best. Maui, I love you too. You’re always on my mind.
55:12
Destiny will find You’ve made a friend in me And I’ll be yours forever Forever Nevertheless Never second best Maui I love you too You’re always on my mind
55:39
destiny will find. You’ve made a friend in me, and I’ll be yours forever. Forever. Forever. I’ll be yours.
56:09
Wow, we have 30 seconds left. Holy mackerel. Thank you for joining us today here at The Neutral Zone, MauiNeutralZone.com. You can watch this show. You can watch the show about Moringa. That will be there. And we’re going to see you next week with a great guest as well. It’s been a pleasure being here. Thank you for joining us. Blessings, everyone. We’ll see you again next week. Aloha, you people of the world. Blessings, everyone.
