By Maui Now Staff

Photo courtesy Whale Trust.

The name is a little odd – is it giving you life? Is it the life that went into providing you with a snack? C) something else? – but go ahead and order the ‘Gift of Life’ appetizer at Fleetwood’s on Front Street regardless, as your money goes entirely to a good cause.

“During the month of December, all purchases of the ‘Gift of Life’ appetizer at Fleetwood’s on Front Street will help to support Pacific Whale Foundation’s whale research, public education and conservation programs to protect whales and the oceans,” states Eric Waddell, general manager of the award-winning Lahaina restaurant.

The restaurant is owned by rock and roll icon Mick Fleetwood who added, “Our restaurant has, from day one, worked diligently with the Maui community to support causes important to us. The whales, turtles, spinner dolphins and all the sea life here are so much a part of the sensibilities of what Maui is. I’m glad to have a small platform to contribute to the betterment and protection of the ocean environment as well as supporting education and information programs, all provided by Pacific Whale Foundation.”

If the red flag is waving, Mick is in the house. Photo by Vanessa Wolf.

The ‘Gift of Life’ appetizer changes daily and is based upon the fresh fish or produce acquired that day.

“I try to make a unique creation daily that reflects the best of the island on each day,” says Fleetwood’s Executive Chef Eric Morrissette. “100% of the price of the $16 appetizer – not just the profit – but the entire purchase price of $16 – will go directly to Pacific Whale Foundation.”

Greg Kaufman, founder and executive director of Pacific Whale Foundation noted that the donation will be used to support humpback whale research off Maui, the Be Whale Aware education program aimed at preventing vessel-whale collisions, the marine education programs provided to Maui schoolchildren, and marine debris prevention programs, including monofilament line collection and recycling.

Fleetwood’s on Front Street is located in Lahaina and is open Sunday through Thursday, 11 am to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 11 p.m.

The restaurant asks that you request the ‘Gift of Life’ appetizer by name or mention it while making a reservation.