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Memories of Maizie

For over a decade we occupied an office next to the former publisher of The Maui News, Mary Cameron “Maizie” Sanford.

There was a constant stream of people in and out of that office — family, friends, former Maui News employees, fellow philanthropists and ordinary citizens of our island.

She lived to listen, exchange ideas and eventually help all who were determined to aid causes and people in need. She loved her family, her friends, Maui, Hawaii, the arts and The Maui News — roughly in that order.

In the years that we worked near her and spoke with her on an almost daily basis, she never raised her voice or spoke ill of anyone. Even those she disagreed with over a business decision were given the benefit of the doubt — they were “poorly informed” or “didn’t understand” how things were done on Maui.

It can be awkward having an office next to someone who has held a position you now hold. If asked, she would offer counsel about running The Maui News — never criticism. Far from being a distraction, Maizie’s presence was a comfort to this publisher and every employee of this newspaper.

She was the heart and soul of The Maui News. She remains so, a little over a year after her death.

Maizie’s office has remained vacant since that sad day she decided she couldn’t continue to commute regularly from Oahu. As far as we are concerned, it will remain that way. It will always be Mazie’s office.

* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.

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