John Berger

The first anniversary of the Lahaina wildfire has been observed and the 102 lives lost memorialized. But as the historic seaside town moves toward a new future, the basic needs of many residents still need to be met.

Teresa Bright, a multitalented Native Hawaiian entertainer known for her sweet and sultry vocal style and innovative blending of Hawaiian, Japanese and Okinawan music, died Sept. 1 after a period of declining health. She was 64.

Hawaiian language, history and culture are prominent as Hawaii's vibrant community theater groups announce their 2024-2025 schedules. The University of Hawaii at Manoa opens its season with “Puana,” an original hana keaka (Hawaiian language theatrical production) on the Kennedy Theatre Mainstage, and Honolulu Theatre for Youth has scheduled plays about the cultural importance of salt, the many winds of Hawaii and the invention of the Hawaiian steel guitar, as it celebrates its 70th season.

Georgette Deemer — whose 16 years as Hawaii film commissioner launched the islands’ international film and television industry­ — died Sept. 1 in Honolulu after a long battle with cancer. She was 71.

Gary Shimabukuro sat at his computer in the immaculate home studio where he composes, records and teaches music, reflecting on his life's work.

Sharon Thomas Yarbrough — a prominent member of the Black culture and arts community in Hawaii for more than 30 years — died Sept. 23 at Kaiser Hospital in Honolulu. She was 71. Yarbrough was the founder and president of Sisters Empowering Hawaii, an organization dedicated to uplifting, motivating, educating and empowering women. Sisters Empowering Hawaii produced speakers programs, hosted luncheons, and presented book signings, art shows and poetry readings.

His willingness to let the people of Hawaii see whatever prudish public officials said should not be seen made him a legend in Hawaii's entertainment history. His belief that it was better to do something and ask forgiveness than to ask permission and be denied was legendary as well. Jack Cione — entrepreneur, nightclub and showroom owner, cabaret show producer, dance instructor, author and creator of Hawaii's original naked waiters revue — died Oct. 1 in Honolulu. He was 97.

Michael Titterton, whose 17 years as president and general manager of Hawai‘i Public Radio from 1999 to 2016 saw the nonprofit broadcaster grow to reach radio audiences across Hawaii, died Oct. 4 at his home in Honolulu. He was 76.

The 2024 Hawai‘i International Film Festival announced awards recently at the Halekulani Hotel.

Martin Charlot — a Hawaii resident for more than 40 years who described himself as “painter, muralist, writer, actor, filmmaker, iIllustrator and educator” — died Oct. 2 at the Hilo Benioff Medical Center in Hilo. He was 79.