Uncle Tom’s Gabbin’

SCENE IN HAWAII ... Michael Buble and Argentinean actress Luisana Lopilato - the two lovebirds were celebrating their new engagement on Maui. Congrats, Michael. Would love to have you back for another concert. ...

Also newly engaged: Alicia Keys and boyfriend, rapper Kasseem Dean (aka Swizz Beatz). The two were spotted on a romantic stroll on the beach while celebrating Alicia’s 29th birthday ...

Ashanti enjoyed a family vacation with a little bit of jet-skiing, luaus and good old-fashion fun in the sun ...

Fun fact: Ashanti plans to release her fifth album later this year ...

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In the 1960s in Los Angeles, the radio station to listen to was Boss Radio KHJ. The station’s biggest promotion was the “Big Kahuna.” Few knew he was portrayed by local boy Chris Varez, who grew up in Kailua. In 1966, Varez was on the Mainland, rubbing shoulders with rock stars, when his friend KHJ program director Ron Jacobs found Varez in Chicago with the Butterfield Blues Band and hired him to play a happy, trend-setting wise man called the Big Kahuna. The hit radio promotion made Varez a superstar on Southern California radio - as big as anyone in Hollywood. Celebrities wanted to meet him. Neal Young and The Bobby Fuller Four wrote songs about him. In the ‘80s, the Big Kuhuna returned to Hawaii and his first love, fishing. Varez died Jan. 24 on Kauai. Among others, he is survived by his brother, noted Big Island artist Dietrich Varez ...

This week in 1961: The 25th Show Of Stars is held at the Civic Auditorium and I have fun introducing the lineup of teenage stars: 18-year-old Bobby Rydell, 19-year-old Chubby Checker and 14-year-old Dodie Stevens who, at 13, became the youngest female ever to sell a million copies of a single with her hit Pink Shoe Laces ...

The No. 1 record is Pony Time by Chubby Checker ...

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FUN, FUN, FUN! The Beach Boys are back Feb. 13 at Blaisdell Arena. Tickets now on sale at ticketmaster.com or at the Blaisdell box office ...

Seen recently on the rock were Owen Wilson vacationing with a mystery woman; Carrie Prejean and her boyfriend, NFL quarterback Kyle Boller; and Meg Ryan, who was here for a little R&R ...

The first K-Drama to be filmed in the state! Munhwa Broadcasting Corp plans to film its first episode of The Divine Hero in Hawaii. The week-long shoot begins on Feb. 16. Executive producer David Lin said, “We definitely want to showcase Hawaii” ...

The rumors are true! Ozomatli returns Friday, Feb. 19, at Pipeline Café, and on Maui Saturday, Feb. 20, at the MACC Castle

Theater. Ozomatli will rock the house with hits such as Saturday Night, City of Angels and Cumbia de los Muertos. Tickets available at the Pipeline Café Box and online at ticketmaster.com ...

Elton John enthralled the crowds during his three-hour sets at the piano, while Ray Cooper treated us to a rhythmic percussion medley on 15 different instruments. Truly magical nights! Celebs spotted grooving to Crocodile Rock were Kanye West and girlfriend Amber Rose, the Osbournes - Ozzy, Sharon, Jack and Kelly (with boyfriend Luke Worrall) - Kylie Minogue, Jimmy Buffett, Glen Larson, Gabrielle Reece and Kirk Hammett, the Brothers Cazimero, Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Haumea Ho, Emme Tomimbang and Makana, to name a few…

This week in 1974: I make a trip to Vail, Colo., to huddle with friend Bill Thompson about a music group that will change the local music scene, whose shows were taking the area by storm - they’re rehearsing for their upcoming debut album on Columbia Records. It’s the first time I hear them, even though their “home” is the Rainbow Villa on Kalakaua Avenue, close to my office at K-POI. What I hear in Vail prompts me to promote their appearance at the Waikiki Shell on March 2 and to plan another concert following the summer release of the album. On Aug. 31, the excitement that album creates results in a record-breaking crowd of 10,000-plus in the Waikiki Shell to see Cecilio & Kapono ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii is The Way We Were by Barbra Streisand ...

 

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IT BEGAN IN 1982 when I took Jimmy Buffett to perform in Tahiti at the O’tac in Papeete. After the show Monte Brown, a friend from Kona who was GM of Hotel Bora Bora, invited our party to spend a few days at his beautiful hotel. While there, we all enjoyed an evening at the island’s newest restaurant, Bloody Mary’s. We were invited to stay after all the other customers had left for a “surprise.” Out came a 16mm projector, and we were treated to a screening of South Pacific. What made it really special was the mountain visible from Bloody Mary’s that, rumor had it, was the legendary “Bali Hai.” Wow! What an evening. We headed back to the hotel humming songs from the movie. The favorite seemed to be Some Enchanted Evening.

A year later, I got a call from Tahiti’s premier entertainer and dear friend, Gabilou, asking to put together a fundraiser for victims of a recent hurricane. Jimmy immediately agreed to perform, and along with John Rowles and Loyal Garner we all headed for Tahiti. While there, Jimmy finished recording One Particular Harbor, which he had written on the previous visit with Tahiti resident Bobby Holcombe.

 

In the following years we often talked about returning. It finally happened ... after Jimmy’s surprise concert at Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber in Waikiki, we headed for Tahiti for the show’s last weekend at Bloody Mary’s. Thanks to managers Craig Gould and Rick Guenett, and owner Dexter Hewett, all proceeds from ticket sales are being donated to build a playground for the children of Bora Bora. And thanks to another dear friend Francis Teai, the Tahitian government provided the best technical equipment to make it a truly first-class presentation. And Gabilou flew in from Papeete to provide a special introduction.

Needless to say, it was very special with Jimmy concluding his performance with a rousing One Particular Harbor.

The crowd wanted one more encore. Well, I had witnessed Jimmy and his brilliant sidemen, guitarist Mac McAnally and steel drum virtuoso Robert Greenidge, working for hours on a special Buffett arrangement of Some Enchanted Evening, and was delighted when Jimmy wisely chose this as his final offering.

He had never performed the song in public before this special moment, and the look on the faces in the audience, young and old, was something to behold. There were tears in many eyes - including mine ...

 

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Longtime pal Glen Larson was in the audience at this past NYE celebration with the Stylistics. Glen and I have been friends ever since I introduced him on stage at The Show of Stars at the Civic Auditorium when he was a member of the Four Preps. Since then he has gone on to create and write some of television’s all-time great shows such as “Magnum P.I.,” “Quincy,” “The Fall Guy,” “KnightRider” and “Battlestar Galactica.” The following is an uplifting piece that Glen wrote about his experience in welcoming 2010.

It’s New Year’s Eve, 1990. Money is flowing, people are going to shows - big shows, like Paul Anka at the Hawaii Ballroom of the Sheraton Waikiki.

The perfect recipe for romance: a bottle of champagne, my lovely wahine and the most romantic voice of my era. I look at my watch: 11:55 p.m. I pop a mint.

 

11:59 p.m.: Ah, the song ends and I get ready for the big moment ... that never comes. Paul continues on for another 45 minutes, not a word to the packed house about New Year’s Eve, no Auld Lang Syne, and rubs salt in the wound with an encore of I Did It My Way.

After that, I couldn’t go to another NYE show. And neither could most of Honolulu.

In the years to follow, I’d ask Tom Moffatt, “Who are you bringing in this year?” He’d tell me people are staying home, spending time with their families, six-packs and sparklers.

My life went on. The world Magnum P.I. knew began to fade. We bid farewell to Dick Jensen and Don Ho, and the climate was shifting in many ways: The economy was collapsing worldwide. On the upside, Hawaii is incredibly resilient: Lost brought TV production back to the Islands, and one of Hawaii’s brightest young talents, Makana, gave great promise to the future by appearing at the White House. Shortly thereafter…

It’s New Year’s Eve 2009. Our country has learned to cut back, but the spirit of the people is strong. Perhaps Honolulu is not being treated to the most bombastic, high-priced ticket act to ring in the new year, but that night, in the Coral Ballroom of the Hilton Hawaiian Village, an act appears that simply brings everyone together: People are singing, hugging and enjoying one another, including the guy sitting next to me, Mayor Mufi Hannemann, whose voice is pretty darn good. The Stylistics, in their legendary and uplifting fashion, along with openers Touch of Gold, of which two members serve in the Honolulu Police Department, brought back the old-time Spirit of Aloha. The performers had heart. The audience had heart. And, by golly, we all actually got to sing Auld Lang Syne.

Looking back on what happened that night, I am reminded of stories of the Great Depression. Money was short; people went to the movies in unheard of numbers, and show biz gave them hope. One week ago a movie set an all-time box-office record at more than $1 billion. The deeper the challenges we face, the deeper our need for inspiration. I’m thankful for those, like Tom Moffatt, who bring it to us.

And in that inspiration, I, Glen A. Larson, feel that good days lie ahead ...

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BACK AGAIN and more amazing than ever! ... The Shanghai Circus returns Jan. 15-17 to Hawaii Theatre. The all-new 2010 show dazzles with its intense showcase of acrobatic prowess featuring astounding performers from the People’s Republic of China. More information is at hawaiitheatre.com ...

Teeny weenie white polka-dot bikini ... spotted on actress Michelle Williams, who took some time to paddleboard and kayak with 4-year-old daughter Matilda Rose, whose father is the late Heath Ledger ...

Fun fact: Rumor has it that Michelle is currently mulling over an upcoming film in which she would star as Marilyn Monroe ...

Also on holiday ... Meg Ryan on the beach in bathing suit and board shorts. The actress is taking a break with family and friends after the release of her latest movie, Serious Moonlight, which opened earlier this month ...

And yes ... that was Erik Estrada shopping at Longs in Kihei last week ...

Cher‘s six-bedroom luxury home with a view of the ocean and Hualalai Golf Course is set to be auctioned Jan. 18. The property is estimated to be worth between $8 million and $12 million. The residence was designed by Cher and “balances modern sophistication with traditional Balinese style” ...

Musical Impressions of Dog Eaters - A Manga by Malcolm Wong comes to life with music. Jason Gaye (saxophone), Dennis Ouchi (guitar), Mark Lindberg (drums), and Ikaika Tecson (keyboards) explore the comic book series from 8 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 17, at The Dragon Upstairs above Hank’s Downtown ...

Kyle Cease, best known as the “slow clap-per” in Not Another Teen Movie and as Bogey Lowenstein in 10 Things I Hate About You comes to Pipeline Café Wednesday, Jan. 27, to perform his stand-up comedy routine. Critics say Kyle’s shows are “as exhilarating and playful as an hour of recess.” You won’t want to miss this ...

This week in 1985: Tina Turner performs in the Coral Ballroom of the Hilton Hawaiian Village just a few days after Julio Iglesias rings in the new year down the beach at the Sheraton Waikiki ... The No. 1 record is Like A Virgin by Madonna ...

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‘TIS THE SEASON for stargazing in Hawaii ... starting with The Hills’ Brody Jenner, seen sunbathing poolside earlier this month with ex-girlfriend and Playboy model Jayde Nicole. Rumor has it that Brody is now enjoying his newly single status on a visit Down Under ... Meanwhile,

Fran Drescher was spotted in a bikini, and Snoop Dogg and family soaked up some sunshine on Maui ...

Speaking of Maui ...Loveline‘s Dr. Drew Pinsky and clan are partaking of some well-deserved R&R before the third season of Celebrity Rehab airs Jan. 7. Upcoming patients undergoing detox and treatment at his Pasadena Recovery Center: Mackenzie Phillips, Heidi Fleiss, Tom Sizemore, Dennis Rodman, Mindy McCready, America’s Next Top Model‘s Lisa D’Amato, Alice in Chains rocker Mike Starr, Joey Kovar of Real World fame and Playboy‘s Kari Ann Peniche ...

 

Also finding Maui No Ka Oi - Hercules & Xena‘s Kevin Sorbo, Hill Street Blues’ Betty Thomas. And bringing music to the air on New Year’s Eve at Mala Restaurant, Marriott Wailea, Nickelback‘s Chad and Mike Kroeger along with Alice Cooper, Mick Fleetwood and others ...

Front Street in Lahaina closes down for three days Jan. 12-14 for the filming of the new Steven Spielberg movie Hereafter directed by Clint Eastwood ...

The film crew of Battleship will be on hand on land, on the sea and in helicopters Jan. 7 when the USS Missouri comes out of dry dock. The film has a budget of $150 million ...

New Year’s Eve: F&M brings its most infamous White Party to apartm3nt on Thursday ... dress code is all white after 8 p.m. - no exceptions. Ring in 2010 with DJs Byron the Fur & Lex1 starting at 9 p.m. For inner or bottle service reservations, .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ...

The Stylistics at the Hilton Hawaiian Village this New Year’s Eve is a great value with one drink per person or a bottle of champagne per couple starting at 9:30 p.m. with special guest A Touch of Gold. Tickets just $49 each ... and while we’re on the subject ...

This week in 1989: The Stylistics ring in the new year in the Hawaii Ballroom of the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. A few months later they appear with Hawaii’s own Glenn Medeiros on the hit single Me-U=Blue reaching No. 35 on Billboard‘s Adult Contemporary chart ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Another Day In Paradise by Phil Collins ...

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SARAH PALIN was vacationing last week on Maui along with hubby and two kids. Her party was picked up at the airport by a former baby-sitter and was driven to Kaanapali Beach Hotel in a 15-year-old Ford Taurus. Of course, they arrived on Alaska Airlines!

Spotted in a bikini with Starbucks in hand: Helen Hunt enjoying some rays on her winter vacation here ...

K-Pop to Kalakaua: Korea’s Barbie, Han Chae Young, most recently seen on the popular The

Boys Over Flowers drama, posed for an Allure magazine photo shoot at Hyatt Regency Waikiki not too long ago. The mag’s January issue includes a full spread of pictures and interview ...

LOL - possibly against your will - with comedian and political satirist Will Durst live at Pipeline Café on Wednesday, Jan. 13 ...

Congratulations and belated Happy Birthday to The Prodigy! B.J. Penn‘s recent win defending his lightweight championship belt has fueled rumors about a UFC visit to Hawaii. Dana White states, “We’re looking to take this thing to all the different markets we haven’t been this year, and Hawaii is definitely on the radar. And we will be doing a stadium there.” Chances are more than likely that Penn will headline here in 2010 ...

This year’s 15th annual Christmas Island Moments with Emme Tomimbang features some of the Islands’ top talents: Willie K, Na Leo, John Cruz, Jimmy Borges, Pauline Willson and some surprise guests! See the encore presentation at 3 p.m. Christmas day on KHON 2 ... Mele Kalikimaka!

This week in 1966: “Gentleman” Ed Francis presents Christmas Night Wrestling at the Arena. TV commentator is Lord Blears, and the ring announcer is Gene Good. Beauregard and Fuji end up in a draw ... the tag team of Neff Maiava and Kongozan defeat Mighty Atlas and Steve Stanlee ... Tarzan Tyler and Karl Gotch end in a draw, as do Billy White Wolf and Cyclone Negra. For the U.S. Tag Team Championship, Ray Stevens and Pat Patterson defeat The Missing Link and Jim Hady ... and in the wild main event, Ripper Collins is defeated by “Handsome” Johnny Barend ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is I’m A Believer by The Monkees ...

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NA LEO TAKES the stage Dec. 20, 22 and 23 at Hale Koa Hotel Luau Gardens for their annual Holiday Music Spectacular ... One of their special guests will be Hawaii’s rising star Anuhea, niece of Na Leo’s Nalani Choy. You won’t want to miss the first time that Nalani and Anuhea perform together on the same stage! For more info, visit naleo.net ...

Spotted: Newt Gingrich and wife Callista were seen soaking up some winter sunshine ...

 

Also sighted at one of the watering holes on the North Shore during the Eddie Aikau surf competition was MMA fighter and former Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Champion “Babalu” aka Renato Sobral ... Fun Fact: The Brazilian is a member of the Gracie Barra Combat Team and has a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Carlos Gracie Jr. ...

Congrats to Tom Arnold, who recently tied the knot (for the fourth time) to Ashley Groussman on Maui in a Buddhist ceremony attended by 100 guests including funnyman and Tom’s best man Dax Shepard, Helen Hunt and Mike Myers ...

Fun fact: The rehearsal dinner was held at Mala Wailea restaurant at the Wailea Marriot. The entertainment? Karaoke! ...

Where are they now? Seawind recently licensed its reunion CD in Japan with Sony Music, also completing a very successful “Reunion Tour” there. It’s a great CD ... hopefully to be released here soon. Here are a couple of pictures from the CD: Seawind 1979 and Seawind 2009. That’s Ken Wild behind Pauline Wilson, then (left to right) it’s Jerry Hey, Bud Nuanez, Kim Hutchcroft, Bob Wilson and Larry Williams ...

Two years new to the isle, composer and music publisher M.E. Reich caught the attention of virtuoso vocalist Anita Hall. The two recently produced a Christmas song called Kailua Christmas that you can listen to at kailuachristmas.com ...

This week in 1972: It’s Ten Years After in Blaisdell Arena! The blues-rock group from Nottingham, England, draws a crowd of 6,000 ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii (fifth week in a row!) is I’m Stone In Love With You by the Stylistics ...

 

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ROCKIN’EST TICKETS IN TOWN: Bon Jovi brings its Circle World Tour to Blaisdell Arena Feb. 11 and 12! Tickets for both nights go on sale this Saturday at the Blaisdell Box Office and Ticketmaster ...

Hot New Year’s Eve Tip: The Stylistics in the Coral Ballroom at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel. Tickets on sale this Friday at Ticketmaster ...

Spotted: Grown Ups star and loyal Islands patron (50 First Dates) Adam Sandler here enjoying the warm tropical weather with his family! Always good to have you back, Adam! ...

Among those disappointed by the cancelation of this weekend’s Brothers Cazimero Christmas concert at Hawaii Theatre is California Lt. Gov. Mona Pasquil, the state’s first female and first Filipino lieutenant governor. Hoping brother Roland recovers from pneumonia soon…

Camera Obscura presents Twas the Night(MARE) Before Xmas at The Loft - a dark holiday celebration for all you Goths - as well as DJ Nocturna‘s birthday bash this Saturday from 9 p.m. for 21-plus with spins by DJ Nocturna, Christ and Politix ...

Word got around quickly after HPU tennis coach Stefan Pampulov was spotted having lunch at Maile’s Bistro in Hawaii Kai with Prince Harry! When asked by the waitress if he was the prince, he replied, “Yes, but I’m undercover.” Restaurant staff was very polite, not even asking for photos. But, as it turns out, “Harry” is actually a champion tennis player whom HPU is recruiting. If that doesn’t work out, he could get a job doubling as Harry’s twin! ...

Still looking for the right gift? Hit up Last Stop Holiday Gift Fair for last minute shoppers on Dec. 20 at Waikele Elementary. Shopping starts at 9 a.m. and goes till 3 p.m. Have your picture taken with Mel Cabang dressed as Santa! ...

This week in 1974: Dave Donnelly mentions in his Star-Bulletin column The Surfers have a new album out, Shells. I produced the album with the help of arranger Brian Robertshaw. I’ve always been proud of it, and 35 years later still love listening to it, and was happy that Hiilawe from the album is included in The Legacy CD that’s just been released ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Kung Fu Fighting by Carl Douglas ...

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ELTON JOHN, along with his flamboyant percussionist Ray Cooper, returns to Blaisdell Arena next month. With Jan. 6 a fast sellout, a second concert has been added on Saturday, Jan. 9, with tickets going on sale this Saturday at Blaisdell Box Office and Ticketmaster. Cooper first performed here with Elton in three sold-out concerts Oct. 25, 26 and 27, 1974, in the Arena ... Fun Fact: From a 1974 Sunbums concert review by Hank McMonigle: “Ray Cooper played drums, congas, tambourine, chimes, assorted percussives and a gong, which he eventually knocked off the back of the stage. At one point, Ray himself fell off the back of the stage!” Welcome back, Ray! It’s been 35 years since I picked you up from the airport the last time you were here! ...

Janet Jackson‘s new video Make Me features two of Hawaii’s own dancers: Cara Horibe from ABDC’S FANNY PAK and Mark Kanemura from SYTYCD ... Fun fact: Both Mark and Cara are graduates of Castle High School ...

 

Jake Shimabukuro‘s audiences have included Neil Young, Robin Williams, Dave Koz, Dennis Hopper, Les Paul and Danny DeVito - not bad for a kid from Kaimuki High School ... Next he’ll be traveling to England Dec. 7 to join Radford’s Bette Midler, performing at the Blackpool Opera House before her Majesty the Queen! ...

What’s next? Next Door is hosting The Aggrolites Live with GO Jimmy GO and Black Square Friday, Dec. 11, at 9 p.m. ... Fun fact: The Aggrolites were featured on the Van’s Warped Tour ‘09, which ended with a national movie theater screening of the tour’s 15th anniversary celebration in L.A. ...

One of the all-time great holiday TV specials, The Three Tenors Christmas, starring Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo and the late Luciano Pavarotti, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special showing on PBS this Saturday at 8 p.m. Originating from Vienna, selections include White Christmas, Jingle Bells, Winter Wonderland and Sleigh Ride, as well as beloved carols and sacred songs such as O Holy Night, Adeste Fideles, Ave Maria and Amazing Grace. The tenors are accompanied by the Vienna Symphony and joined by the Gumpoldskirchner Spatzen Children’s Choir. ...

This week in 1959: I had the pleasure in introducing these stars at the 19th Show Of Stars at the Civic Auditorium: Jimmy Clanton, The Four Preps, Japan’s Hirao Masaaki, Jan and Dean, Dick Jenson and The Royal Drifters ...

 

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MAUI NO KA OI ... Fighter Chuck Liddell and family enjoy a little getaway… Looks like the Valley Isle melted the UFC’s “Ice Man” ...

Help fight the war on AIDS at the 14th annual DJs Against AIDS on Thursday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. at Hulas, 21+. Info at djsagainstaids.com ...

Check out the latest men’s and women’s urban fashion trends at Ecosystems, located in Waikele upper level, locally owned and managed by Thad Park and Chris Meheula of Artist Groove Network and Todd Yamanaka of ImageIV Designs. Online shopping will be available in mid-December at ecosystemshawaii.com ...

Want to be entertained by singers, comedians, jugglers and more? Attend the live taping of Entertain Me! Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. @ Hawaiian Brian’s Billiards. The show will begin airing in January 2010 on Saturday nights at 9 p.m. on KHON Fox 2 ...

Hats off to Loggins & Messina for a great show Nov. 14 ... It was SRO in the Concert Hall - wow, it was a special night! ...

In the market for an awesome ukulele? Check out Jake Shimabukuro‘s collaborative effort with the world-famous Takamine guitar company. Sales of the specially designed uke will benefit Music Is Good Medicine’s “Four Strings for Kids” program, which seeks to put the ukulele in the hands of kids worldwide ...

Fun Fact: Takamine is located in Sakashita, Japan, and turns out exquisite guitars for the likes of Garth Brooks, Kenny Chesney, Bruce Springsteen and Glenn Frey, to name a few. ...

It’s the return of “Friends & Nabors” ... Hawaii Theatre kicks off the Christmas season with “A Merry Christmas with Friends & Nabors” starring Jim Nabors this Friday, Saturday and Sunday… Welcome back, Jim! ...

This week in 1978: David Gates and Bread perform at Blaisdell Arena. Glen Larson, in the audience, is inspired to use the group in an episode of his Hardy Boys hit TV series titled Defection To Paradise, set in Hawaii. Yours truly overnighted to LAX then drove to Santa Monica Civic Auditorium (former home of the Academy Awards) to “play” the MC of their Honolulu concert - a five-second slot! Ah, the wonders of television ...

The No. 1 record is MacArthur Park by Donna Summer ...

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Philadelphia Phillies star Shane Victorino is home on Maui for a very special occasion. The St. Anthony’s grad tied the knot Saturday with longtime girlfriend Melissa Smith at a private home in Makena. Rumored to be at the wedding: Jon Gosselin

^... Looking for a laugh? See that “fluffy” comic in a Hawaiian shirt, comedian Gabriel Iglesias, Friday, Nov. 27, at Blaisdell Concert Hall ...

Fun fact: The 32-year-old has been on Last Comic Standing, ABC’s My Wife & Kids, Showtime’s Resurrection Boulevard, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Good Morning America, The Late Late Show, FOX TV’s The Family Guy, Showtime at the Apollo and BET’s Comic View.

Spotted around town and dining at Zippy’s: the ever-impromptu Wayne Brady ...

Fun fact: The last time I brought Wayne out here to do a show he couldn’t get enough of Zippy’s ...

Prom time comes early ... Get Gothed up in black and crimson, dark corsages and boutonnières, and grab a date (or two) to attend the Goth Prom at The Loft Saturday Nov. 28 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Music provided by Nocturna, Modboy and Shadowfaxxx ... See who gets crowned Bat King and Bat Queen. 18-plus welcome. More information at myspace.com/808cameraobscura ...

After rumors of Steven Tyler leaving Aerosmith, talk around the water coolers suggested they should take Journey‘s lead and shop on youtube for an Arnel Tyler or maybe a Steven Pineda! Ha ha! ...

Mark your calendars! Carlos Barbosa-Lima performs both classical and Brazilian guitar Sunday, Dec. 20, at 4 p.m. at the Doris Duke Theater. Trained as a child by the great composer/performer Isaias Savio and Andrés Segovia, Carlos has recorded and performed around the world since the age of 12 ...

Fun fact: Doris Duke’s home Shangri La is now open for guided, small-group tours and educational programs. I was last at Shangri La for an all-night jam session with a handful of local musician buddies. At sunrise we were all treated to a gourmet breakfast. The chef: Doris Duke ...

This week in 1983: U2 performs at Blaisdell Arena on its way to a first tour of Japan. Opening act is Oingo Boingo ...

The No. 1 record is All Night Long by Lionel Richie ...

 

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LOGGINS AND MESSINA live in concert at Blaisdell Concert Hall this Sunday night! Fun fact: This is the way they looked (at left) when they performed here on Nov. 22, 1972, before a sold-out Andrews Amphitheater crowd ...

John Cruz returns to do it Island Style - coming home for a string of concerts Nov. 6 through Dec. 4. Joining in are Frank Carillo on bass and Imua Garza on keyboards. See them in Waikiki at Jimmy Buffett‘s at the Beachcomber on Tuesday Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m. More info is at johncruz.com. Shine on, John! ...

Spotted on the shores: a very fit Adrien Brody reprising Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s role in the remake of Predator with co-star Topher Grace ...

Fun Fact: Brody is the youngest actor ever to receive an Academy Award for Best Actor and the only American actor ever to win a César Award. ...

 

Japanese actress Misaki Ito has reportedly announced plans to marry pachinko king Yoshinori Enomoto Nov. 24 here in the Isles in the company of friends and family. Ito is rumored to be wearing dresses created by fashion designer and socialite Uno Kanda ...

Fun fact: Enomoto and Ito first met last November while attending a wedding here ...

The first monograph ever published about the extraordinary printmaker John Melville Kelly will be released this Saturday. Titled Hawaiian Idyll: John Melville Kelly and written by Natasha Roessler Drucker, it’s filled with more than 90 color illustrations. Available exclusively at the Honolulu Academy of Arts ... Drucker will be signing books on release day from 1 to 4 p.m. Details can be found at http://www.honolulu-academy.org ...

This week in 1969: Donovan packs the Arena - and I do mean packs ... it’s the biggest crowd ever. With just Donovan and minimal production equipment onstage, more seats are made available than for any other show. One thing is missing ... when Donovan sings Mellow Yellow, Paul McCartney isn’t there to whisper as he did on the hit record ...

The No. 1 record is a two-sided hit by The Beatles: Come Together/Something ...

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RETURNING TO Blaisdell Concert Hall on Nov. 10: internationally acclaimed singer Lea Salonga! The Tony Award-winning Broadway star celebrates The Magic of Disney & Broadway Musicals. Her sold-out performances here in January 2008 wowed everyone, so don’t miss her!

Fun Fact: After last year’s concert, Lea had an impromptu meet-and-greet in the lobby of the concert hall, where fans got to meet her, take pictures and get autographs.

Let’s hope this happens again next week ...

Ben Vereen‘s recent performances with the Honolulu Symphony were a special treat. In his final performance, the symphony left the stage promptly at 10:30 p.m., but Ben continued with his trio. After his first song, symphony guitar player Zanuck Lindsay returned to his seat and joined Ben in an impromptu and beautiful version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Chicken skin time ...

LOL at Pipeline Café Nov. 11 with Bruce Vilanch. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are on sale at the Pipeline Cafe Box Office, Hawaii’s Natural High, or by phone at 1-877-71-GROOVE ...

Fun Fact: Pipeline Café was voted the No. 2 club concert venue in the world for the first three quarters of 2009 via Pollstar ...

After viewing the Michael Jackson movie, top Hawaii film producer Angie Laprete had this to say about This Is It: “Wow, what an incredible film. I felt I was at the actual concert ... and it brought back amazing memories of Aloha Stadium! What a performer - like no other! Very sad. It was an emotional roller coaster.”

Fun Fact: One of the film’s producers is Paul Gongaware, who was my associate when we presented Michael Jackson Jan. 3 and 4, 1997, at Aloha Stadium.

This week in 1961: The “world premiere” of Blue Hawaii takes place at the King, Palace and Waialae drive-in theaters. Reviewer Birch Storm writes, “Blue Hawaii will do more for the Islands this year than the HVB, the Statehood Commission, Dole Corp. and the macadamia nut division of the Honokaa Sugar Company all put together.” And how right he was! Elvis and Hawaii never looked better and, after its national release on Nov. 22, were eventually seen by millions worldwide ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Cotton Fields by The Highwaymen.

The No. 1 album is Blue Hawaii by Elvis ...

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FRIDAY IS PARTY NIGHT with Go Jimmy Go! Celebrate their long-awaited fifth CD release with original ska and reggae tunes at Anna Bannana’s from 9 p.m., featuring special guest performances by the Throwdowns from Maui and Black Square ...

Fun Fact: The GJG boys just returned from a successful West Coast Space 5-0 Tour with the Phenomenauts -

Go Jimmy Go! ...

Aerosmith‘s concert knocked the socks off of the sold-out crowd at Blaisdell Arena. Spotted in the audience: actor and dancer Ben Vereen, Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives host Guy Fieri, former Ken Rosene Presents right-hand gal LeAnn Moen, and manager to the stars (Alice Cooper among them) Shep Gordon ...

 

Fun Fact: The mystery woman on Joe Perry‘s guitar is his personable, lovely wife, Billie ...

Clint Eastwood is taking his new project Hereafter around the world, hitting the French Alps, London and Hawaii to film! Keep your eye out for Eastwood and Matt Damon, who stars in the movie.

Hereafter is a supernatural thriller written by Oscar nominee (Frost/Nixon, The Queen) Peter Morgan ...

OOSPOT takes over Halloween at the Hyatt this Saturday with compadres Tantriq, Vertical Junkies and Architechs Entertainment to host DJs XL, G-Spot, Delve, Anit and QuikSilva. Dress to impress for the first place $1,000 cash costume contest! Runners up vie for a trip for two to Las Vegas or a sparkling diamond ...9 p.m.-2 a.m., 21-plus, $10-$15 cover. More info at www.double-o-spot.com or 591-3500…

Calling all villains and victims to the Loft (115 N. Hotel St.) this Thursday night! On the decks: DJ Nocturna, DJ Modboy and DJ Shadowfaxxx. Find all the details at www.djnocturna.com ...

This week in 1970: John Rowles finishes his final week of a two-month gig at Duke Kahanamoku‘s in Waikiki. Originally scheduled for just one month, popular demand more than doubles his engagement! John’s big hit Cheryl Moana Marie is No. 2 on the K-Poi Action 20 ...

The No. 1 hit in Hawaii is I’ll Be There by The Jackson 5 ...

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BACK AGAIN, the most intense and chilling haunted house in Hawaii, SHOCKHOUSE VI! The “LEGENDS of FEAR” in one house Oct. 23, 24 and 28-31 at the Blaisdell Mansion on Ward Avenue! See you there ... if you dare! Muwahahahaha ...

After wrapping up filming of Dream, K-drama actress and singing sensation Son Dambi was spotted here earlier this month with her company members and her friends.

She needed a well-deserved break before her upcoming concert in LA ...

It’s the 15th anniversary of Emme’s Island Moments ...

This year’s Food, Wine and an Island Moment in D.C. features Chef Alan Wong in Washington, D.C., Chef Roy Yamaguchi on Iron Chef and sommelier Chuck Furuya. And Emme Inc. wins national Telly award! The one-hour telecasts run on KHON2 Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. and again Oct. 24 at 4 p.m. ...

It was a celebration of Filipino entertainment, food, and culture at the Barrio Fiesta last Saturday at Pipeline Café.  Featuring performances by: Comedian David Lee, The Sharon Sanchez Band, A Trust, DJ’s Flip and Flykid, The Zodiac Band, & the Tekniqlingz Dance Crew. Two luck people also won tickets to see Lea Salonga in concert at the Blaisdell Concert Hall on November 10th…

Fun Fact: Funee guy David Lee was one of the top finalists in Pipeline’s got talent.  He humored the audience with his jokes and singer impersonations for the likes of Creed, N’ SYNC, Nickelback, and the King of Pop- MJ…

Speaking of the King of Pop, see the world’s No. 1 MJ performer, actor and Michael Jackson historian - LIVE! E’CASANOVA performs at the All Ages Halloween Bash-The Thriller “Halloween Teen Massive” on Oct. 29 at Pipeline Café and at “The Thriller” at LEVEL 4 on Halloween night ...

This week in 1972: Elton John makes his second appearance in Hawaii, performing before a sold-out crowd at the HIC Arena. Elton appears onstage wearing an aluminum suit, vest, tails, sparkling stars and striped pants, a top hat, a large pair of white, oval-shaped sunglasses and towering boots with six-inch heels! He begins the evening with Tiny Dancer and encores with Great Balls Of Fire and Hercules...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Beautiful Sunday by Daniel Boone ...

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IN CASE you missed Journey‘s Arnel Pineda on Oprah recently, he was a smash hit! He told his rags-to-riches story, which hits the big screen next year, getting a standing ovation after he sang Faithfully. Chicken skin! I hope to bring Arnel and Journey back next year ...

Steven Tyler will be in the midst of fans this Sunday. A 40-foot-long-by-8-foot-wide ramp will extend from the center of the Blaisdell stage into the audience for the Aerosmith concert. It’s sold out, but tickets are still available for Maui ...

Got the blues? All you need are Friends of Adam! The exceptionally talented electric-blues rock band is performing live the first and third Fridays of each month at Jazz Minds Art & Café. They’ve got quite the following with a well-established international dance group and the crew of Lost among their fans ...

 

Fun Fact: A few weeks ago Friends of Adam just finished its set when members from the cast of Lost walked in. They put $200 in the tip jar and the show played on ...

Pacific Beach Hotel hosts a fun night this Friday: The Nifty Sixties Statewide ‘Oldies’ Bash. If you’re a ‘60s graduate of any high school in Hawaii, you’re invited! More at niftysixtiesoldiesbash2009.com. ...

Mabuhay! There’s a new Filipino voice in television, Veronica’s Blog, that recently premiered on the Filipino Channel (TFC). Veronica’s Blog is an educational sitcom set in California, chronicling a Filipino-American preteen and her adventures in discovering her Filipino heritage ...

Fun Fact: There are more than 3 million Filipinos living in the United States, who represent an estimated 18 percent of the total Asian population.

It’s the world premiere of the Princess Ka’iulani Suite by Academy Award-winning composer Stephen Warbeck this Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 4 p.m. at Blaisdell Concert Hall. Also highlighted are conductor Gerard Schwarz and pianist Arnaldo Cohen in performances celebrating Hawaii’s 50th anniversary of statehood ...

This week in 1995: No Doubt makes its concert debut in Hawaii - as the opening act for 311 at After Dark on Nimitz Highway. Tickets cost $15.50. The same week, the band’s breakthrough album, Tragic Kingdom is released.

The No. 1 record is Fantasy by Mariah Carey ...

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PIPELINE’S GOT TALENT! Congrats to the winners of the Pipeline’s Got Talent competition that dazzled the judges and audience. Stasia took first place with an original song, catchy lyrics, endearing stage presence and heavenly voice. Izreal came in second, also with an original song melding unique songwriting abilities with catchy wordplay and a strong voice ... Keep your eyes and ears on these two.

I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot more of them ...

Pay a visit to King Kalakaua and Princess Ruth‘s historic Hulihee Palace in Kona, recently reopened and welcoming visitors after sustaining severe damaged during the 2006 earthquake. Renovations cost $1.5 million ...

It pays to be creepy! Michael Emerson wins the Emmy for his portrayal of one of the creepiest characters on television, Lost villain Benjamin Linus! Emerson was noted as saying, “I always sort of cringe when people say, ‘You’re that creepy guy.’ Sinister I can live with, that’s fine. But creepy is like someone you wouldn’t sit next to at a diner ...”

The Mushroom Music Fest features Mark Farina Saturday, Oct. 24, at Pipeline Café; age 16 and over welcome. More info at http://www.Mushroommusicfestival.com. ...

Taste of The Pacific and Twilight Expo are featured at the 45th Annual Food & New Product Show Oct. 16 to 18 at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. This year’s show includes hundreds of local and Mainland exhibitors, shopping, great prize giveaways and an unbeatable eating experience. For more information, e-mail Yemun Chung at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ...

This week in 1960: The Pacific Jazz Festival, featuring Mavis Rivers, George Shearing and his quintet, The Hi-Lo’s and the Cal Tjader Quartet, happens at the Waikiki Shell. Ticket prices cost $3.75, $2.75 and $1.50. Mavis is pregnant at this time and will give birth to a son six months later - March 25. She names the baby Matt ...

Fun fact: Matt’s full name: Matt Catingub! Today he’s the acclaimed conductor of the Honolulu Symphony Pops ...

The No. 1 record is Poetry In Motion by Johnny Tillotson ...

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WHEN SPEAKING with Steven Tyler just after the contracts for Aerosmith’s October concerts were signed, he mentioned that since the ‘70s the band has looked forward to returning to perform for the people of Hawaii. “Now our dream is coming true,” he said. Steven asked if he could request something special for his dressing room ... I held my breath waiting for his order of a few hundred dollars worth of the finest wine or Champagne.

Steven’s request: a bowl of fresh poi. I happily replied, “You got it!” Fresh poi at the Blaisdell Oct. 18 and on Maui Oct. 20 ...’

In checking, it was 35 years ago, Dec. 15, 1974, that Aerosmith debuted at Blaisdell Arena as the opening act for The Guess Who. Sunbum’s review by Dave Dugle noted that “many people felt that Aerosmith stole the show.” ...

 

Feeling Jazzy? See the “Late Show with Santino” at The Dragon Upstairs (above Hank’s downtown), 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. every Friday. Joining vocalist Santino Sgambelluri are Salvatore Di Amore on drums, Steven Jones on bass and Ikaika Tecson on piano ... Fun Fact: Pianist Ikaika Tecson recently played keyboard for Mike Corrado, who opened for the Black Eyed Peas at this year’s Bayfest…

Artzone Theater presents “KK Kaminaka’s,” an artistic performance, play and concert wrapped into one. Perspectives: “The Journey Into the Mind of an Artist” is this Saturday at 7 p.m. Details at www.artzone.ws ...

Fun Fact: A funnier fact: Steven Tyler’s quote about his upcoming Hawaii concerts: “I’m going to ‘maholler’ my ass off!”

This week in 1979: We present a show at Aloha Stadium that today would be financially improbable anywhere in the country. It’s The Eagles and Jimmy Buffett - on the same show! The Eagles have performed here before at Blaisdell Arena and the Waikiki Shell, but this stadium gig is Buffett’s Hawaii premiere. Happy 30th Hawaiian anniversary, Jimmy!...

The No. 1 record is My Sharona by The Knack ...

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A big, bright congratulations to J. Robert Harmon and his Eggshell Lighting Company, recently named the regional winner of the Parnelli “Hometown Heroes"Award given to the best U.S. regional lighting companies as voted by readers of PLSN (Projection, Lights and Staging) magazine…

K-Pop Star Sightings: Newlyweds Jung Hyung Don and wife Han Yura were spotted at Incheon International Airport, checking in for their flight to Hawaii for their honeymoon…?

Can’t wait to hear the new Don Tiki CD out this week. Five years in the making, South of the Boudoir showcases 70 minutes of exotic Don Tiki music with 16 selections including Pagan Lust, Forbidden Finger, Billions Of Brazillions and Bla Bla Cha Cha...

 

Get ready to rumble, Hawaii! It’s the 9th annual Mai Tai Rumble band competition with over $30,000 in cash and prizes. Sponsored by the Mai Tai Bar at Ala Moana Center, it kicks off on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 9 p.m. and spans 10 intense weeks. Each competition night will be followed by pro entertainment by the likes of Koauka, Ooklah The Moc, Ten Feet, and Natural Vibrations. Get the whole schedule at http://www.maitairumble.com ...

This week thru Sunday at the Blaisdell Concert Hall the Shaolin Warriors perform kung fu as a dazzling art form. And what showmen!

Ron Bright brings West Side Story to an exciting new musical life opening Friday at Paliku Theater, Windward CC ...

This week in 1990: The Judds and their opening act Carl Perkins perform at the Sheraton Waikiki’s Hawaii Ballroom, their first appearance in Hawaii and Carl Perkins’last before he passed away in 1998. The Judds are in Hawaii at the start of a “50th Anniversary Tour” on behalf of the USO. The Hawaii leg takes them to the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt Waikoloa Resort and the Royal Lahaina Tennis Stadium. After the tour, Don Chapman writes in his ol’three-dot column: “Mel ‘The Money Man’ Lawrence was in town on vacation staying with Tom Moffatt. Mel happened to visit as Tom was putting on The Judds’ tour of the neighbor islands, which meant Mel ‘The Money Man’ was reborn, this time selling tickets and taking money. Mel was a hit at the old K-POI, going around town and giving away money”...

The No.1 record is The Joker by the Steve Miller Band - originally released in 1973, it regained popularity because of its use in a Levi’s ad ...

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QUICK QUIZ: What are the two most-common words used in sports interviews? See answer below ...

The 12th annual Manhattan Short Film Festival screens at Honolulu Academy of Arts this Sunday and continues Tuesday and Wednesday with three shows per day. Tickets are available online at tix.com or at the Academy of Arts box office. Represented countries are the United States, Australia, Mozambique, the United Kingdom, Israel, Spain, France, Sweden and Italy, in what festival organizers describe as a “Cinematic Olympiad” ...

Spotted swimming in her tiny two-piece bathing suit: adult film star and 2009 AVN Female Performer of the Year Jenna Haze, in Hawaii to take a break after launching her own production company, Jennaration X Studios ...

 

Fun fact: Jenna’s film in April 2007 became the first adult movie released on Blu-ray disc!

Calling all queens: It’s the official 26th annual Universal ShowQueen Pageant DVD Premiere Party this Thursday at Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand. The Brent Anbe Productions DVD highlights the world-renowned Universal ShowQueen Pageant, titled “The Ultimate in Boy Beautiful,” that took place at Hawaii Convention Center in June. It features a fierce competition in couture cocktail, evening gown, talent and Las Vegas ShowGirl costume ...

Fun fact: Judging the competition along with local celebs was Marian Morrison, choreographer and consultant for Walt Disney Entertainment! ...

Willie Nelson recently hosted a Maui release party for his new CD, American Classic. What was supposed to be a “secret gig” at Charley’s in Paia drew a standing-room-only crowd that responded enthusiastically to the country legend’s performing American classics from the CD such as Since I Fell For You, The Nearness Of You and Fly Me to The Moon ...

This week in 1958: The ninth Show Of Stars features the Elegants, Bobby Freeman, Jack Scott and Scott Engel. A special moment: When Bobby Freeman sings his hit composition, Do You Want To Dance. I wonder if Radford’s Bette Midler was in the audience and was inspired by the song -15 years later it would become her first national hit.

The No. 1 record is Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu (Volare) by Domenico Modugno ...

* Quick quiz answer: You know.

 

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ANNA PAQUIN and Stephen Moyer had a steamy romance on-screen and off filming True Blood. Two years later, the couple is talking wedding bells! Just one problem: Anna wants to wed in Hawaii, but Stephen prefers to tie the knot closer to home in L.A. ... Sounds like a no-brainer to me, but then again vampires shun sunshine ...

Spotted! Singer Ben Harper showing off his tattooed bod and stand-up paddle surfing skills while on vacation here recently ...

Fun fact: Harper is of African-American, Cherokee and Jewish ancestry. Can you say chop suey?

Also spotted: a very shirtless TV host Regis Philbin, who strolled around the Islands on his own vacation ...

It’s the Bat Cave at The Loft downtown lounge 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

Sept. 11, presenting SUSPENSION by Dan Eternal, DJ Nocturna, Modboy, Sniper Wells and fire dance by Sabrina Fox, 18 and over. For more information, visit http://www.djnocturna.com ...

At a recent party at the Philippine Consulate, Hawaii’s world boxing champ Brian Viloria gave a moving speech to the responsive crowd gathered to honor him. MC Amelia Casamina Cabatu then asked Brian what was next on his agenda. Looking over the buffet table, he replied with a twinkle in his eyes: “Adobo, lumpia, gisantes, pancit, sari and halo!” ...

It’s the first event to celebrate KTUH’s 40th anniversary as an FM college station! “Friends of KTUH” DJ Night at Indigo from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sept. 25 with 18 of KTUH’s finest DJs in three rooms of music, changing styles every 40 minutes. Ages 21 and over are welcome. The event is a fundraiser for KTUH and cover charge is just $10 ...

Fun Fact: My debut on a radio microphone was at KTUH ...

This week in 1975: The Faces, featuring lead singer Rod Stewart, perform at HIC Arena. The group will disband later the same year when guitarist Ron Wood becomes a full-time member of the Rolling Stones on Dec. 9. Wood will later return to Hawaii in January 1998 to perform with the Stones at Aloha Stadium, while Stewart will headline several shows at the Blaisdell. But this landmark Hawaii concert not only introduces Stewart to Hawaii audiences, it also features guitar wizard Peter Frampton ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Rhinestone Cowboy by Glen Campbell ...

 

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RON JACOBS’ BEST SELLER Obamaland was featured recently on ABC News’ Nightline. Jacobs debated a “birther” who claims that President Barack Obama is not an American citizen, while viewers offered real-time comments via Twitter. Citing various documents reproduced in Obamaland, RJ easily proved that Obama was born here at Kapiolani Maternity Hospital. Anchor Vicki Mabry called it “our most successful online show to date.” The complete half-hour can be seen via pod-cast at the Nightline Web site ...

True Blood star Mehcad Brooks, who plays Eggs in the series, participated in the “Tag the World” celebrity triathlon on the Big Island. The charity raises awareness and funds for children in foster care in Hawaii. Other celebrities included James Franco, Pauly Shore, Rebecca Maderand and Ryan Eggold, Kyle Lowder, Darin Brooks, Drew Lachey, Jeremy Jackson, Clayne Crawford, women’s soccer star Mia Hamm and supermodel Amber Valletta ...

The Cheesesteak King, Tony Luke Jr., has co-written and stars in a new film, The Nail, with William Forsythe, Tony Danza, Leo Rossi and Dayanara Torres. On DVD and in stores Sept. 8. Read all about it at http://www.mtivideo.com ...

This week in 1977: Ron Jacobs and I host A Blast From The Past at Blaisdell Arena starring Teddy Randazzo, Jimmy Clanton, Lance Curtis and the Uniques, Ronnie Diamond and The Royal Drifters. Sunbums reviews it: “A video tribute to Elvis Presley, who had passed away the month before, was shown on a large overhead movie screen that was placed above the stage. Lance Curtis, aka Dick Jensen, made his entrance on a motorcycle! More than 5,000 fans turn out for this fun event which also includes a dance contest and a best-dressed couple contest.”

Interesting Note: Sept. 3, 1977, was Ron Jacobs’ birthday, and he was presented with a birthday cake on stage by Dick Jensen. In keeping with Ron’s image as a villain, after singing a round of Happy Birthday, Dick threw the cake in Ron’s face! Even Ron joined in as we all laughed about it backstage after the show.

The No. 1 record is The Best Of My Love by the Emotions ...

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Spotted on the Windward side: Seal and his lovely (and pregnant!) wife Heidi Klum. The two are expecting a baby girl ... congrats! Fun Fact: This will be the former Victoria Secret model’s fourth child ...

Also on a romantic vacation, shirtless Grey’s Anatomy star Justin Chambers and his wife Keisha. He just wrapped up taping the new season and was due for some R&R…

Wow, what a party - MidWeek‘s 25th anniversary at the Pacific Club. A who’s who guest list enjoyed music from Maunalua, followed by Jimmy Borges and Ginai backed by Steve Jones, Jeff Peterson and Von Baron, followed by Ciana Pelekai, and then C&K! All MC’d by Al Waterson. Fabulous food, too, from Sam Choy, DK Kodama, Elmer Guzman, Russell Siu and Ruth’s Chris!

 

Waipahu’s own Hawaiian Punch Brian Viloria takes on Mexico’s Jesus “Azul” Iribe to defend his world title this Saturday @ 4:30pm at Blaisdell Arena..  Tickets are on sale now at the Blaisdell Box Office and Ticketmaster outlets…

Fun Fact:  The Viloria /Iribe Championship Fight is expected to attract a worldwide television audience of 315 million viewers. Here to cheer on Brain are HOT Filipina TV stars Pauleen Luna and Jolina Macdangal.  Jolina will be singing the Philippine national anthem.

Celebrate Kapi’olani Medical Center’s 100th birthday with a free party at Honolulu Zoo! Bring the family this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and enjoy keiki activities, prize giveaways, and live entertainment by Henry Kapono, Jasmine Trias, Uncle Mel & Keiki Palaka Band, and Hoku Zuttermeister, to name a few…

THIS WEEK IN 1970: Gentleman Ed Francis presents 50th State Wrestling at the Civic before a crowd of 4,452. Lord Blears provides commentary, Joe Moore announces from the ring. Ref is Wally Tsutsumi. Highlights include Hahn Lee defeating Friday Allman, Pedro Morales and Kenji Shibuya wrestling to a draw, and tag team-ers “Handsome” Johnny Barend and Billy Robinson defeating Eduord Carpenter and Jack Armstrong. The title event pits heavyweight champ Ripper Collins against Sam Steamboat in a steel cage match, but Collins’ compadre, Allman, trying to spray a green mist into Steamboat’s eyes, misses and hits the champ in the face instead! Unable to see, Collins loses, and the championship belt goes to Steamboat ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Close To You by The Carpenters...

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HAD A NICE chat with super producer Bob Rock backstage at last Tuesday’s No Doubt concert. Bob told me he’s working with Gwen Stefani‘s husband Gavin Rossdale on his new CD. Last time we met was at Michael Bubl‘s Maui concert, where Bob and Michael discussed a forthcoming recording project - which has been completed and is due for release. Can’t wait! ... Wednesday night was the finale of the No Doubt tour -

what a show! ...

Spotted Saturday night at new hotspot Apartm3nt: loud lounge singer Richard Cheese, in town recording some vocals with unmentioned Hawaiian artists and enjoying the No Doubt concert ...

Fun fact: Dick had a smashing performance at Pipeline Caf in February, where some of the crowd favorites were Don’t Cha from the Pussycat Dolls and Island In The Sun from Weezer ...

They’ve got enough gold records to revive the economy! Experience a night of memorable songs with The Coasters, Platters and Drifters this Friday, Aug. 21 - part of Hawaii’s 50th Anniversary Celebration at the convention hall. I’ve introduced them all on different occasions, but never in one show together - WOW! Get ready for the hits - and wear your dancing shoes ...

Fun Fact: The Platters kicked off 1959 on New Year’s Day along with Bobby Darin in the 12th Show of Stars at the Civic Auditorium ...

The inspirational 60-minute 2000 documentary, John A. Burns: The Man and His Times, has been updated for rebroadcast and release in a special statehood anniversary commemorative DVD by EMME Inc. This exceptional encore presentation on Hawaii’s former governor will be shown this Thursday, Aug. 20, at 8:30 p.m. on PBS Hawaii Channel 10 ...

This week in 1959: President Dwight D. Eisenhower signs the Proclamation of Statehood for Hawaii on Aug. 21, which also happens to be the first night of a three-night run of the 17th Show Of Stars at the Civic Auditorium. Featuring Neil Sedaka, Jo-Ann Campbell and Duane Eddy & The Rebels, it’s the first Show Of Stars held in the state of Hawaii! For 20-year-old sensation Sedaka, it’s his first visit to the Islands to make his first professional appearance on the very first night we’re the 50th state ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Mama, Can I Go Out Tonight? by JoAnn Campbell ...

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LOVIN’ HAWAII! Very foxy Jennifer Love Hewitt and beau Jamie Kennedy were spotted cavorting around the island over the weekend. Kennedy indulged in some basketball while Hewitt showed off her bikini body. The two were spotted lip-locking most of the time they were together ...

Disney stars and identical twin brothers Cole and Dylan Sprouse celebrated their 17th birthday in true Suite Life fashion, swimming up a storm during their Isle vacation ...

Fun Fact: A reader sent along this interesting note: Aug. 4, 1961, the date President Obama was born at Kapiolani Hospital, I was over at the Waikiki Shell introducing Pat Boone ...

Super photographer Kim Taylor Reece is looking for a super model - and has a new reality show to find her! Dancers in Paradise began with 12 contestants who worked at perfecting the elements of grace, strength, creativity and affinity with their surroundings. Kumu Hula Keola Dalire and choreographer Tunui Tully are the judges ... eliminating contestants until the final female is left dancing. Don’t miss it! Dancers in Paradise airs at 6:30 p.m. Saturdays on KITVABC ...

Ballet Hawaii presents Peter Pan at Blaisdell Concert Hall for two matinee performances on Aug. 15 and 16. They’ll perform Septime Webre‘s version of the timeless tale (Webre is artistic director of the Washington Ballet) with beautiful sets and costumes from the Cincinnati Ballet. For tickets, call Ticketmaster 1-800-745-3000 ...

And this week in 1967: After successfully touring the islands with The Young Rascals, The Byrds return to Oahu and perform at a dance held at HIC Exhibition Hall. The event is called A Fly-In With The Byrds and also features The Val Richards V, Loves Special Delivery, The Blues Crew and The Intriques. Advance sale tickets are priced at $1.50. It was David Crosby’s last appearance with The Byrds in Hawaii ...

The No. 1 record is A Girl Like You By The Young Rascals ...

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IT’S THE 10th anniversary of the Willows restaurant this Friday! The festivities starts at 5:30 p.m. and go till 10, filled with fun: music by Kahua, food by Chef Jay Matsukawa and beverage stations galore. No cover charge. Food and drink tickets available at the door. Call
952-9200 or go to www.willowshawaii.com ...

FUN FACT: The original Willows restaurant was opened July 4, 1944, by Kathleen Perry, whose family owned the property. Husband Al was musical director of Hawaii Calls ...

August Moon wine tasting at The Contemporary Museum Gardens this Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. Sample boutique, organic and biodynamic wines with food from Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse and more. Details at 237-5231 ...

Funny gal Tamayo is back and better then ever! She rocked Hawaii’s comedy circuit in the 1990s and then took a bit of a break. Last week pal Dan Bradley and I presented her in Bali, where she performed at the new Anantara Resort and Spa Seminyak-Bali. She was a sensation ...

On my way back to the Islands, I stopped in Tokyo to have lunch with Japan’s super concert promoter and longtime friend Al Arashida. As we left the restaurant to walk through the sea of 12 million people, I looked up to find myself face-to-face with Hawaii-Japan radio personality Kamasami Kong. What are the odds? (I guess one in 12 million, hah!) He invited me to join his party at the Cecilio and Kapono concert that night, and it had to be a big table to have included Kong, Akebono, Musashimaru and Konishiki ...

This week in 1970: Jimi Hendrix performs before a sell-out crowd at HIC Arena in what would become his last American concert before his death six weeks later. Two days before the Honolulu concert, Jimi performs at a “free” show in a horse pasture above Seabury Hall on the upcountry slopes of Haleakala. Footage from that concert is used in the movie Rainbow Bridge ...

The No. 1 song in Hawaii is Make It With You by Bread ...

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SPOTTED: Enjoying the surf and sand was Jenny McCarthy with her main squeeze - funny guy Jim Carrey ...

Here’s a splash! Spotted in Makaha was Daryl Hannah ...

It’s Artists of Hawaii Aug. 1-16: The exhibition presents the best works of Hawaii artists. For more information, call 532-8700 or visit www.honoluluacademy.org ...

Did you know: G-Spot was given the 25th anniversary of House Music Award for his outstanding contributions to the Electronic Music industry? Way to go! ...

FREE musical theatre concert for the community featuring HOT young opera stars Jake and Jill Gardner. “It’s a Grand Night for Singing” will showcase rising stars from Hawaii (many are UH Music School students/graduates) with the stars of opera on stage this Friday and Saturday at Roosevelt High School at 7 p.m. Call 596-7858 or e-mail .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ...

CHARO CONQUERS LAS VEGAS!! Again!! That was the headline from a recent publicity release. The former star of the old Tropics Showroom at Hilton Hawaiian Village opened at the Riviera earlier this month for a six-month run. The show was such a hit, with Charo singing and playing her flamenco guitar (she is one of the best!), along with dancers and full orchestra, that her contract was just extended to an 18-month run ...

This week in 1973: We present a blockbuster show in the Arena. The Doobie Brothers and Tower of Power - it’s the Hawaii concert debut for both groups. Tower Of Power literally stops the show when their horn section struts around the arena while the rest of the band keeps the beat going onstage. The Doobie Brothers have a hard time following, but finally get to the audience about halfway through their set. What a night ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is a composition by Richard Carpenter and John Bettis, performed by Richard and his sister Karen - The Carpenters - Yesterday Once More ...

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GUESS WHO’s back?! Spotted on the beach again was Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger taking another vacay, maybe just to visit family ...

The rumor had it that Anna Farias and fiancé Chris Pratt were spotted on Maui tying the knot over the weekend, but it is not true! The two lovebirds were spotted sporting some major blingage, though ... Perhaps they were looking for a wedding location ...

TAG teams up with the London Theatre Company to stage the world premiere of Miso in Honolulu! The play is set in 1930s Japan when patriotism and militarism were riding high and the youth of Japan were entranced by Western culture. Runs July 24 to Aug. 16, Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. For reservations, go online: http://www.taghawaii.net/OrderTickets.html ...

 

Happy 25th Birthday, MidWeek! Let’s see what was happening around town the week you debuted in 1984: Jack Lord emcees the first Po’okela Awards Banquet held at the Hale Koa Hotel. The event, put on by the Hawaii State Theatre Council, is Hawaii’s first award show for theatrical excellence ... The Richie Walker Band is at Bill Walton‘s Waikiki Junction, the Brothers Caz are in the Monarch Room of the Royal, Jon and Randy are at Orson’s Kailua, Jimmy Borges wows ‘em at Trappers, Toma/Natto are at Monterey Bay Canners/Pearlridge, Ikona featuring Ledward Kaapana is at Chuck’s Cellar, The Krush and Freddie Morris (and Moku Kahana) are in the Outrigger Waikiki Main Showroom, Frank De Lima and Na Kolohe at the Noodle Shop, Sonya Mendez rocks Wave Waikiki, Karen Keawehawaii is at Surfboard Lounge in the Waikiki Beachcomber, Olomana is at The Ranch House, Tavana’s Polynesian Show packs the Garden Bar, The Peter Moon Band is at Oasis, Melveen Leed is at the Garden Lanai of the Ala Moana Hotel, and Michael Franks performs in concert at the Waikiki Shell ...

The No. 1 record is When Doves Cry by Prince ...

 

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HAPPY 24TH B-DAY to Ashley Tisdale, spotted on the beach with music director Scott Speers. The two smooched for the cameras ...

Fun Fact: Ashley celebrated her 23rd here, too ... Guess it’s safe to say that Hawaii’s her favorite celebration spot! ...

Yay for the Royal Hawaiian! Local entertainment is back in the Monarch Room every Thursday with two shows nightly at 7:30 and 9:30 ... Now through August it’s Makana; September through October, Moanalua; and November through through December, C&K ...

The 11th annual Love Festival at Wet ‘n’Wild (formerly Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park) happens Saturday, July 18. This year it’s a hiphop/dancehall/reggae event. Tickets and information online at 00spot.com ...

The biggest show in Waikiki opens this Friday at the Royal Hawaiian Theater - Heartbeat Hawaii. It’s a show for all ages and features a cast of 75 direct from Beijing, including 540 costumes. Wow! Shows Tuesday-Sunday at 7 p.m. Reservations: 931-6100 ...

Watching the reruns of Michael Jackson rehearsing for his This Is It Tour, I wasn’t surprised to learn that super choreographer Kenny Ortega was helping Michael put the show together. I was fortunate to work with Kenny in the ‘80s during Gloria Estefan‘s first concert appearances in Hawaii ...

Argh! It’s Voltaire for the second annual Pirates Ahoy on Friday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Next Door, with Camera Obscura’s music and dancing after the concert! For more information, go to www.djnocturna.com ...

This week in 1997: Hawaii’s new radio station107.9FM presents it first “Oldies” concert, “A Million Dollar Party,” featuring The Drifters, Coasters, Shirelles, Crystals, Tokens, Barbara Lewis, Lenny Welch and The Champs at Blaisdell Arena. Dave Donnelly writes the following in his July 17, 1997, column: “The Star-Bulletin‘s Rod Ohira is one of those ‘60s kids who was stoked by the Oldies concert at the Arena Saturday night. Ohira, who took in many of the old “Show Of Stars” shows and “Million Dollar Parties” in decades past, called it ‘The best concert I’ve seen, and that includes the Eagles”... The No. 1 hit is I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy and Faith Evans ...

 

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CHOCOLATE MAKES the heart grow fonder ... especially for these celebrities! It was a star-studded, glamorous culinary party in Wailea ...Spotted at the Four Seasons Resort Maui’s Taste of Chocolate: Tori Spelling and hubby Dean McDermott; Jillian Michaels, host of The Biggest Loser; Anna Faris from House Bunny;

Justin Chambers of Grey’s Anatomy; Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs;

James Marsden of XMen; Kristen Bell of Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Virginia Madsen from Sideways all enjoyed the delectable delights ...

Seen over at Mala Wailea @ the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa were Willie Nelson and Zooey Deschanel with boyfriend Ben Gibbard. Veteran actors Richard Chamberlain and Madsen also joined the table to enjoy the buffet and Maui’s own Ocean Vodka martinis. “It was a fun party,” says Mala partner Shep Gordon. “It was a little bit of Hollywood right here on Maui” ... A. PINEDA RETURNS WITH THE BLACK EYED PEAS ... That caught my attention when scanning their traveling name list. But of course that would be Apl Pineda, not Arnel of Journey. Apl returns Aug. 16 with the Grammy Award-winning Black Eyed Peas at BayFest! Both Arnel and Apple are originally from the Philippines .... Any relation? ...

 

Hawaii favorites Hiroshima in town this Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. at Level 4 in Waikiki. Michael Paulo will guest star to make it a really special evening of jazz. Ticket info: 550-8457 ...

This week in 1966: I spend three nights with Them and Van Morrison. The first night is at the Waikiki Shell with the Ramsey Lewis Trio.

Fun Fact: Ramsey’s drummer is Maurice White, who would form Earth, Wind & Fire three years later ... The second night the Poi Boys present “Direct From England In Person ... Dance With Them” at the HIC Exhibition Hall. The third night it’s on to the Garden Island to present the first rock ‘n’ roll concert in the new Kauai War Memorial Convention Hall. All three nights the crowds thrill to the Them mega-hit G-L-O-R-I-A ... GLORIA ...

The No. 1 hit in ‘66 is Little Red Riding Hood by Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs ...

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MICHAEL JACKSON‘s last U.S. concert was at Aloha Stadium 12 years ago. It was the biggest concert I’ve ever been associated with - two packed nights with tickets selling out in hours. No one, before or since, has sold out two nights in Aloha Stadium. An extraordinary engagement with an extraordinary performer - one I’ll always remember. Aloha, Michael ...

WOW! Two of the hottest female vocalists in the music world will be performing here within three days of each other. Gwen Stefani and No Doubt in Blaisdell Arena Tuesday/Wednesday, Aug. 11 and 12; and Saturday, Aug. 15, Fergie and Black Eyed Peas at BayFest at the Marine Corps Base Hawaii ...

Calling all songwriters! Are you looking to develop your talent? It’s the first Mele Songwriters Workshop July 10-12 at Honolulu Community College Building 2, Norman Loui Conference Center. The workshop is designed for songwriters, from beginners to professional, looking for new ideas. For more information, e-mail .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ...

Summer fun in the sun: Hawaii-lovin’ hottie Kristen Bell was spotted on another vacation with boyfriend Dax Shepard ...

Also flaunting her curves shoreside was Hilary Duff ...

A little tropical getaway for Eddie Murphy ... Sources say he is in better shape then ever, and was sporting a six pack of abs at the beach! ...

This week in 1965: The Kinks perform at the H.I.C. for the Royal Ball, which also features Hawaii’s Spirits, Undertakers, Moptops and Casuals. Tickets? $2 ...

The next day we board an Army bus for a show at Schofield’s Conroy Bowl. I remember brothers Ray and Dave Davies writing a song on the bus ride. Wonder if it could’ve been their 1970 hit, Lola? As I recall, it kinda sounded like it. Take a listen Saturday morning on The Rock & Roll Drive In and I’ll play it for you!

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is I’m Henry VIII, I Am by Herman’s Hermits ...

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CONGRATS TO to Lisa Hamilton, who is $195,000 richer now that she’s won the World Series of Poker Ladies Championship in Las Vegas - first from Hawaii to take home a WSOP championship bracelet! ...

Emmy Award-winning talk show hostess and former supermodel Tyra Banks on vacay on Maui with businessman boyfriend John Utendahl ...

Also spotted was Matt Damon, hitting the waves with three lovely gals on their annual trip to Hawaii - daughters Isabella and Gia tested the water, while mom Luciana looked great in her pink bikini ...

Fun Fact: 2007 was a special year when the Damons were joined here by the Affleck family. ...

WWE Action July 5 in Blaisdell Arena ... Gorgeous ladies wrestling in a SmackDown Diva Tag Team Match - Gail Kim and Melina vs. Michelle McCool and Alicia Fox with Maria as the special referee. ...

Ron Jacobs celebrated the recent Kamehameha Day holiday by driving up and down Kamehameha Highway for six hours ...

It’s the fourth annual Honolulu Family Festival at Magic Island Thursday, July 30, through Sunday, Aug. 2. Food, live entertainment and thrilling rides by E.K. Fernandez Shows! The award-winning entertainers includes the Amazing Augustino, Hawaii’s favorite ladies Nina Keali’iwahamana, Marlene Sai, Karen Keawehawai’i, Misty Kelai and Iwalani Kamahele, and hula dancers Beverly Noa and Pi’ilani Smith. Plus comedian Frank DeLima, Gregg Hammer Band, Kapena, Kenny Endo Taiko Ensemble, Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winner Holunape, and the legendary Henry Kapono. For more information or show schedules, visit .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or call Huy Vo at 275-3014.

This week in 1969: The Rascals - Felix Cavaleri, Gene Cornish, Eddie Brigati and Dino Danelli - perform together in Hawaii for the last time with two concerts in the Arena.

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Crystal Blue Persuasion by Tommy James & The Shondells ...

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SMOOTH MOVE by Perry & Price ...Their KSSK Saturday morning breakfast show is moving from John Dominis to Jimmy Buffett‘s at the Beachcomber Hotel in Waikiki beginning July 11 - great news for local folks: free parking, and the buffet is affordable and onolicious! ...

It’s the 12th anniversary celebration of Sam Choy‘s Breakfast, Lunch & Crab on Nimitz from 6 to 9 p.m. June 24! The evening, a benefit for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii, will feature Chef Aurelio Garcia‘s special dishes. Chef Choy also is offering a mojito bar, wine and Sam’s “Big Aloha” microbrew beer assortment.

Entertainment includes Willie K, Laga Savea and Sean Tiwanak, with local celebrity emcee Augie T. Donations also will be accepted. Please make your check payable to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii and mail it to RMHC-HI, PO Box 61777, Honolulu, HI, 96839-1777…

Spotted: The very sexy Natalie Imbruglia pulling off a hot, black wetsuit to reveal an even hotter black bikini ...

Fun Fact: Imbruglia is currently filming some death-defying stunts for Jack Osbourne‘s new reality TV show, Celebrity Adrenaline Junkie ... This week in 1973: Some of the action in Waikiki: Don Ho is at the Polynesian Palace, John Rowles at the Monarch Room, Al Harrington at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Tapa Room, Carole Kai at the Garden Bar, Zulu and Arthur Lyman at Duke Kahanamoku’s, Melveen Leed at the Sheraton Waikiki Prow Lounge, Rene Paulo at Keone’s on Lewers, Linda Green and The Sonny Knight Trio at The Blue Velvet Lounge on Seaside, The Aliis are at the Outrigger Main Showroom, Emma Veary is at the Halekulani, Nephi Hannemann at the Ilikai’s Canoe House and the Surfers featuring dancers Leinaala, Kaipo Kincaid, Sweetie Moffatt, Darah and Dana Lau at the Hale Makai Hotel.

Tavana’s Polynesian Spectacular is presented five nights a week (Monday through Friday) at the Waikiki Shell, and Frank Zappa and The Mothers Of Invention with opening act Cecilio & Kapono are in concert at the Civic Auditorium. ...

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THE BETHANY HAMILTON story, Soul Surfer, is scheduled to film here with prepping tentatively set next month at Turtle Bay ...

HOT Cameron Diaz spotted here in the tropics cooling off in her itsy-bitsy teenyweeny green bikini ...

So you think you can dance? ... 23-year-old Kailua boy Kuponohi’ipoi Aweau, a contemporary dancer, passed the choreography test and gets that golden ticket to Vegas. Congrats! ...

Fun Fact: Pono’s name means “Child of Cherished Honesty” ...

Welcome home, Nicole Scherzinger. Last time here was with Eden’s Crush at the World Cafe on Nimitz Highway, and we had fun a few days before on a quick trip to Guam for a free concert there. Congratulations on your worldwide success with the Pussycat Dolls ...

No more tickets: Pearl Jam‘s Eddie Vedder concerts July 1 and 2 at Hawaii Theatre are sold out ...

Fun Fact: In 2007, Eddie released his first solo album: the soundtrack for the film Into the Wild. ...

Buy one, get one free for Magic of Polynesia! Good at 8 p.m. shows at the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. Free parking at the Miramar Hotel and Island Colony! This summer special ends Sept. 30, so call 971-4321 now for reservations ...

“The Ultimate In Boy Beautiful” is back! The 26th Universal Snow Queen Pageant is this Saturday night in the Kalakaua Ballroom of the Hawaii Convention Center. Info: Call Jason (372-9350) or Erica (927-2327) ...

This week in 1959: The 16th Show Of Stars headlines Jimmy Clanton, The Champs, The Fleetwoods and Dion & The Belmonts. It’s a kick introducing these great Mainland stars on stage at the Civic Auditorium along with Hawaii’s own Dick Jensen & The Uniques, Ronnie Diamond, Al Lucas, The Royal Drifters, Dan Dalton, The Jokers and Baby Doll - backed by Charlie Santos and his orchestra. Quite a show!

The No. 1 record is The Battle Of New Orleans by Johnny Horton ...

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SPOTTED: The 27-year-old self-made billion-aire babe Taysha Valez! This empire empress was seen leaving a brunch touting her new Tri-myTAY telecom company ...

Fun Fact: Taysha was rocking the new Hermes Fall 2009 riding leggings and Rena Yip alligator green-soled pumps! ...

Also sighted was Brooke Hogan at HNL airport last weekend ...

Casting Call! TAG’s next production, MISO, a drama by Susan Shirwen directed by Clare Davidson, is looking for two young cast members to play Shoji Nagao, a gentle, athletic teenager, and Masataka Nagao, an “otherworldly thin” tweener with consumption.

 

Ages are 17 and 12, respectively. Auditions will be held Wednesday, June 24 at 6:30 p.m. @ TAG’s Downtown hale, 1116 Smith St., second floor ...

The Hawaii Harmonica Society performs Saturday, July 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Mission Memorial Auditorium, City Hall Annex. Free admission and free parking at the municipal parking lot! For more info, contact Bob Omura at 833-4336 ...

WIN WIN WIN free gas, Las Vegas trips, luxury cruises, cash and more! It’s the Home, Garden and Remodeling Show at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall June 12-14. Live entertainment by Augie and Tahiti Rey, Mel Cabang, Danny Couch and Karen Keawehawai’i. Come by and say hi Saturday at 1 p.m. at the main stage booth, where I’ll be signing my book, speaking with fans and giving away some goodies. General admission is $3; free for children under 12 - what a bargain! More info can be found at pacificexpos.com or by calling 945-3594 ...

Last week in the year 1978: Shaka Khan and Rufus draw 6,000 fans to Blaisdell Arena. The crowd goes wild when they perform Sweet Thing ...

This week in 1965: “Sad Sam” Ichinose and Ralph Yempuku present the first sold-out boxing event in the new HIC Arena. Before a crowd of 8,406, Hawaii’s Stan Harrington scores a unanimous 10-round upset decision over former five-time world champion Sugar Ray Robinson ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Laurie by Dickey Lee ...

 

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Congratulations to starlet Anna Faris and Chris Pratt, who plan to tie the knot. Rumor has it that Anna doesn’t want a multi-million dollar wedding. The House Bunny actress wants something spontaneous. “We’re going to elope! We were thinking maybe in Arizona because we met there, or maybe Hawaii.” She goes on to say, “We are just so casual and laid back. I feel like we would be just as happy living in a trailer in Kansas as we are here, probably even happier…”

Stopped by Wolfgang’s Steakhouse with newlyweds Glen and Jeannie Larson, and ran into owners Wolfgang Zwiener and his son Peter. Their steaks are really special as is their wine cellar - the biggest in town! Recent diners include Mayor Mufi, Hollywood producer Chris Lee, Dog and Beth Chapman, Ann Kobayashi, actor Ken (Borat) Davitian, Makana, Donovan Dela Cruz, Jimmy Borges and Star-Bulletin and MidWeek president/publisher Dennis Francis. Fronting Kalakaua, it’s a great addition to the third floor of Royal Hawaiian Center…

 

A couple of nights later, across Kalakaua at Jimmy Buffett’s at the Beachcomber, we met up with Peter and Chef Stefano and his wife Sabrina of Sabrina’s Restaurant. Lots of food talk!...

Was honored to be honored last week at the MPI Aloha Chapter awards dinner at the Waialae Country Club. M.C. Starwood exec Michael Troy’s humor made it an extra special and fun evening - one-liners galore ...

It’s the Honolulu Broadway Babies’ 4th Annual concert entitled, “A BROADWAY FASHION ROCK REVUE,” featuring Broadway and Musical headliners from New York, L.A., Europe and Hawaii - June 4, 5, & 6 at the Leeward Community College Theater. Go to honolulubroadwaybabies.com for more information…

Sad to hear of the passing last week of Hollywood publicist Lee Solters, who I had the pleasure of working with on Frank Sinatra’s AT&T Concert at Aloha Stadium. A real gentleman, recognized as one of the tops in his field. Aloha, Lee…

Shaka Khan & Rufus draw 6,000 fans to Blaisdell Arena. The crowd goes wild when they perform Sweet Thing...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Shadow Dancing by Andy Gibb...

 

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JEFF HARDY vs. EDGE headlines WWE Wrestling in a World Heavyweight Championship match July 5 at Blaisdell Arena. Among the lineup of Smackdown & ECW Superstars on the card is Michelle McCool ...

Independent comedy film Skills Like This premieres Friday, May 29, at the Kahala Theatres. The SXSW Award-winning film has a Hawaii tie through kama’aina resident George Gaudiello, one of the executive producers of the movie. George got involved in the movie through longtime friend and Academy Award-winner Donna Dewey. After sellout audiences in New York, Denver and Los Angeles, George is excited to bring the movie to Honolulu ...

Rhianna is back in Hawaii recovering from a recent incident with leaked photos. Seen biking around Diamond Head. Hope the aloha here brings some sunshine to her year ...

Spotted: Owen Wilson trying out some paddle boarding on Maui. Taking some time off before his release of Night at the Museum 2, which hits theaters in about a week ...

 

The incredible Erykah Badu and Goapele star in the Aloha Music Fest @ the Waterfront at Aloha Tower Marketplace, May 29 at 7 p.m. Also performing: Kimo James, Nesian Nine, Poetry by Climbing PoeTree and DJs Salaam NYC and MIN ONE. More info at diglifestyles.com ...

Former Girl Next Door Bridget comes to Oahu with her new show Bridget’s Sexiest Beaches. Here she dances the hula on Waikiki beach, pilots an underwater scooter in Maunalua Bay, goes on a shark adventure off the North Shore and gets a view of the world-famous Banzai Pipeline from a hang-glider. Included in her Hawaii guide of must-sees are Duke’s Canoe Club Waikiki, Oahu Ghost Tours, Hawaii Shark Encounters and Aoki’s Shave Ice, to name a few ...

TV Tip ... Keola Beamer & Friends - Bridging Worlds Through Music ... airing this Thursday (5/21) at 8:30 p.m. on PBS ...

This week in 1974 ... Cat Stevens at the Waikiki Shell, Gordon Lightfoot at the Arena, Glen Campbell at the HHV Coral Ballroom and Tower of Power and Lighthouse in the Arena. What a week!

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is I’ve Been Searchin’ So Long by Chicago ...

 

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HOT MOM IN HAWAII ... Julia Roberts had a fun day at the beach with her kids and was spotted sharing romantic moments with hubby Danny Moder. Also spotted on Julia was a tattoo on her lower back featuring the names of her children: Phinneaus, Hazel and Henry ...

On the Lohan sisters’ recent visit to Maui: Rumor has it that Lindsay Lohan did a little shopping at the local Ritz Camera store and Gucci after receiving about $17,000 for an exclusive photo shoot. First night on Maui she treated a group of friends to dinner at Mala at the Marriott ...

Ron Jacobs ”OBAMA-LAND:Who Is Barack Obama? is a big seller locally, with sales spreading beyond Hawaii. A contributor to the book was Pulitzer Prize-winning author David Maraniss, whose best-sellers include When Pride Still Mattered - A Life of Vince Lombardi and First In His Class - A Biography of Bill Clinton. Maraniss will join Jacobs May 19 at Windward Community College for what promises to be a very interesting discussion: “Obama & Clinton: Born in Hawaii & Hope.” For ticket info, go to http://www.windward.hawaii.edu/Calendar/2009/Obama/

Changes at Clear Channel Hawaii ... Looking for your favorite radio personalities? Here is the local radio lineup: Gregg Hammer and Rory Wild leave Hot 93.9 (KIKI) after 19 years on the air and are moving to Island Rhythm 98.5 (KDNN), giving Lanai a chance to sleep in and concentrate on distributing his newly bottled red wine, “a smooth, full-bodied Grenache/Shiraz” labeled “Look Me In The Eye.” Maleko moves over to Hot 93.9 mornings, will maintain a three-hour shift doing afternoons at Star 101.9 from 1 to 4 p.m., and will continue to program the music for Radio Free Hawaii (KUCD-HD2) ...

This week in 1973: Beck Bogert and Appice perform at the HIC. It was the first rock ‘n’ roll concert held at the Concert Hall. Guitarist Jeff Beck last performed in Hawaii on Sept. 4, 1966, at the HIC Exhibition Hall as a member of the Yardbirds. Bass guitarist Tim Bogert and drummer Carmine Appice had last performed here in July of 1969 at the Civic Auditorium as members of Vanilla Fudge ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii (fifth week in a row) is Tie A Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree by Tony Orlando & Dawn ...

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IT’S BEEN A LITTLE more than 50 years since I first met Glen A. Larson and introduced him as a member of the Four Preps, who co-starred with the Everly Brothers at the Civic Auditorium in the 8th Show Of Stars. Glen went on to become a giant TV producer with mega-hits Battlestar Galactica, Magnum, P.I., Knight Rider, Fall Guy and Quincy, to name a few. Hawaii’s always been his second home, and we’ve remained close friends through the years, so it was my great pleasure to be at his wedding this past Saturday to give away his lovely bride, Jeannie Pledger, at Kaluahole Beach near Diamond Head ...

Fun Fact: The location of the wedding was mere feet from the spot where I introduced Jimmy Buffett to Tom Selleck during the filming of Magnum, P.I. ...

Must see! Hawaii Theatre Center presents Hawaii’s own Keo Woolford in I LAND, one night only on Saturday, May 9, @ 7:30 p.m. Hula meets hip-hop in this outstanding one-man performance that explores the search for the meaning of heritage in a post-modern world. Check him out at hawaiitheatre.com ...

 

Sheryl Crow is enjoying Maui after her concert there last week, spending a few extra days at the Fairmont Kea Lani. ...

This week in 1962: The Tom Moffatt Show premieres on Channel 4 KHVH TV Monday through Friday from 4 to 4:30 p.m., following Dick Clark‘s American Bandstand. Dick records a voice message for us that would run over his closing credits, telling listeners to stay tuned for our show. It becomes very popular, and soon features a group of high school regular dancers who become stars in their own right. Popular dances of the day include The Twist, Continental/Stroll, Bop, Limbo, Cha-Cha, Mashed Potato and, once in a while, a s-l-o-w fox trot ...

My regulars in the below photo, from left: Dominick LaRocco (McKinley), Yvonne Usita (Maryknoll), Lovina Bermudez (Farrington), Carlyne Cunningham (McKinley), yers truly, John Damas (McKinley) and Dianne Paresa (St. Francis Convent)

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Mashed Potato Time by Dee Dee Sharp ...

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Film action on Kauai… TV show-High School Reunion in for a month, culminating June 7. Twenty years after graduation, 15 of Arizona’s Chandler High School Class of ‘88 reunites on the beautiful island of Kauai. The Jock, The Homecoming Queen, The Ugly Duckling, The Class Clown, The Outcast…

Also on the Garden Isle: Roger Corman Jr., returning to film two low-budget sci-fi horror movies over a one-month period ...

Spotted earlier this month was the former Saturday Night Live funny lady and current Kath & Kim star Molly Shannon surfing some waves.

Also spotted: Red Hot Chili Peppers’ lead singer Anthony Keidis. He was here vacationing with his girlfriend and son.

 

Trivia from two weeks ago: Hollywood star Don Stroud, featured in Joe Moore’s Righteous Revenge, was Playgirl Magazine’s first centerfold - back in November 1973…

Motion Music Festival.com features Ladytron and Jesse Saunders (Godfather of House 25th anniversary tour) on Friday, May 29, at the Cellar, and on Saturday, May 30, at Pipeline Cafe.

WRESTLING FANS ALERT!: Tickets will go on sale this Saturday at the Blaisdell and on Ticketmaster for the July 5 WWE Summer Slam event in the arena…

Saturday and Sunday a great classical program comes to the Blaisdell Concert Hall featuring renowned pianist William Wolfran returning to perform Rachmaninoff’s First Piano Concerto with the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra. Guest conductor will be Vasily Petrenko, principal conductor for the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britan.

This week in 1978: Shaun Cassidy performs two concerts in the Blaisdell Arena. While here, Shaun gets a call from Glen Larson that his series The Hardy Boys Mysteries is being renewed for another season. Hundreds of “Aloha Shaun” banners are made for the hundreds of fans who line Ala Moana park holding the banners and greeting Shaun as his limousine drives by on the way to his hotel from the airport.

The No. 1 record is If I Can’t Have You by Yvonne Elliman

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HAWAII’S HOT Summer Concert will feature one of my favorites: Gwen Stefani and No Doubt ... stay tuned for details ...

The official White House Dog “Bo” is named after Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legend Bo Diddley.

Bo is pictured here next to his eternal sidekick and maracas shaker Jerome Green just before I introduced them at the June 1960 Show of Stars at the Aloha Theater in Hanapepe, Kauai ...

This weekend: The 34th Annual Spring New Products Show at Blaisdell Exhibition Hall features hot vocalist Tahiti Rey, body builder Michael Monis, tasty foods and tons of fantastic giveaways such as a Ford F150 4x4, free groceries, gas, trips and much more ... and Saturday there’s a free community event at Kualoa Ranch: the 10th annual Ho’okupu Aloha. For info, call 238-HULA (4852) ...

Attention Roosevelt ‘59 grads: 50-year reunion parties are happening this weekend. Call Karlotta Kaa @ 383-5222 for details

 

Local Magic: Buy One Get One Free for The Magic of Polynesia starring Hawaii’s super magician John Hirokawa at The Beachcomber Waikiki ...

This week in 1962: The Twist is the current rage with songs featured on my radio show, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, that include The Twist by Chubby Checker, Bunny Hop Twist by Ray Anthony, Patricia-Twist by Perez Prado, Twist, Twist Senora by Gary U.S. Bonds, Sugartime Twist by The McGuire Sisters, Twistin’The Night Away by Sam Cooke, Peppermint Twist by Joey Dee & The Starliters, and Everybody’s Twistin’ by Frank Sinatra.

So the Show of Stars at the Civic Auditorium features Johnny Crawford, The Orchids (billed as the sensational Twist band from New York), Super Twist contests and Al Lucas. We also present the show on the Big Island, in Lihue on the Garden Island, and in Kahului, Maui. After returning to Honolulu for the final shows at the Civic, the last stop is Schofield’s Conroy Bowl ...

Fun Fact: The young star of the hit TV series The Rifleman, Johnny Crawford, collects data on William S. Hart, the silent movie Western hero. Johnny visits the Big Island’s Parker Ranch for a couple of days between shows at Honokaa and Hilo ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Good Luck Charm by Elvis ...

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ATTENTION WRESTLING FANS: The WWE is planing to return to Blaisdell Arena in early July. Stay tuned ...

It’s Operation Aloha from Maroon 5, Gomez & Phantom Planet members! They set up shop in a compound of tree houses with friends on Maui resulting in a collection of songs that showcase the tranquility, freedom and spirit of Hawaii. Their self-released/self-titled debut album will be out May 12.

Operation Aloha musicians include Dajon Everett, Ian Ball, Olly Peacock from Gomez; James Valentine and Jesse Carmichael from Maroon 5; Sam Farrar from Phantom Planet; photographer Christopher Wray-McCann; Charles Danek, Fil Krohnengold from All Spots To Black; Mathew Chaney, Maureen Wray-McCann, Nadav Kahn from Kahn Brothers; Saam Gabbay and Will Nash ...

 

Can’t wait to be part of the audience for the premiere of Joe Moore‘s latest thespian offering, Righteous Revenge, Saturday, April 18, at the Pacific Aviation Museum at Pearl Harbor. It’s the true story of the Doolittle Raid, a daring (and harrowing) retaliatory strike against Tokyo after the attack on Pearl Harbor led by Lt. Col. James “Jimmy” Doolittle on April 18, 1942.

Joe, who will portray Doolittle, leader of the “Task Force 16” pilots, has assembled an outstanding cast of local actors to portray the events leading to this historic event - one of whom was featured in a nude centerfold spread in Playgirl magazine. No, it wasn’t Joe! Find out who next week ... and for more information on Righteous Revenge, call 441-1008 ...

Eddie Vetter of Pearl Jam goes solo at Hawaii Theatre July 1 and 2 with a Maui Castle Theater date scheduled for June 29 ... and The Pussycat Dolls featuring Hawaii’s own Nicole Scherzinger to Blaisdell Arena June 13 ...

This week in 1982: After a two-year absence as a duo, Cecilio and Kapono perform at the “Together Again” reunion concert at Waikiki Shell. The show is recorded by renowned producer Frank Day and results in a double album titled Together Live ...

The No. 1 record is I Love Rock ‘N Roll by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts...

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IT WAS AN AMAZING end to my March Madness as Journey put on three sell-out shows at Blaisdell Arena, a show on Maui and one in Kona. When Haumea Ho learned that Journey’s Arnel Pineda was a fan of her late husband, she surprised him after their last arena concert with a copy of Don Ho: My Music, My Life. Truly a special moment when I introduced them backstage. Arnel was really pleasantly surprised and told me later that earlier in the day he had visited Don Ho’s Island Grill ...

Missing from last week’s issue: Apicture of Rolling Stone Ron Wood and Mark Ellman after dining at Mala in Lahaina ...

From the Golden State to the Aloha State, it’s Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, his gorgeous wife Maria Shriver and their children! They just left Maui after a relaxing vacation where Arnold read the paper and Maria did some snorkeling ... They too dined at Mala, but at the new Wailea Beach Marriot location ...

Also spotted: Jeremy “Hobie” Jackson from Baywatch (played the role of David Hasselhoff’s son), recently seen on VH1’s Confession of a Teenage Idol. The now reformed and sober Californian may be ready for a comeback ...

Staying at the Kahala was Rihanna!

She was here for a few days doing some recording work and enjoying some time to herself ...

Performing live! Grammy Award-winning artist Deniece Williams, Ray Parker (Ghostbusters), Brian Simpson, Freddie Washington and Michael Paulo. April 10 and 11 @ 7 p.m. in the Royal Hawaiian Theatre at Royal Hawaiian Center. For more information, check out www.smoothjazznights.com ...

This Week In 1964: Ron Jacobs,Tom Rounds, Mel “The Money Man” Lawrence and I present the first show in the new Honolulu International Center Arena. Called “A Million Dollar Party,” it features Teddy Randazzo, Bobby Rydell, Paul & Paula, Betty “Shoop Shoop” Everett, Jan & Dean, Johnny Crawford, April & Nino, The Dovells, Ray Peterson, Bobby Freeman, Paul Revere & The Raiders and Hawaii’s Casuals and Telstars.

Tickets? $2! The show is backed by the Joe Castro Orchestra featuring top Hollywood recording session musician Hal “The Drummer Man” Blaine. The K-Poi Top 10 includes The Wonder Of You, No. 9 by Ray Peterson; The Shoop Shoop Song, No. 7 by Betty Everett and New Girl In School No. 3 by Jan & Dean ...

The No. 1 record is Twist & Shout by The Beatles ...

 

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MICK FLEETWOOD is taking a three-week break with the Fleetwood Mac super tour. Their final concert last Thursday was before nearly 20,000 fans in Toronto. When the tour picks up April 17 in Cleveland, a similar-size crowd is expected. Mick is looking forward to the intimate 700-seat Royal Hawaiian Showroom, where he will debut his Mick Fleetwood Blues Band this Thursday night. The band received rave reviews on a recent European tour. For info: ticketmaster.com ...

Spotted: Christina Milian and The-Dream lip-locking poolside while vacationing on Maui, with the Dip It Low singer-turned-actress stripped down to her smokin’ Gucci bikini ...

 

Fun Fact: Christina’s been planning a blond makeover and a sexy new look ... From where I sit, she’s already got the sexy part covered.

There’s a new set member on Lost - Eleanor! Her dad is grip Chris Putt. Uncle Jack Bender, executive producer and director, and the entire cast and crew absolutely adore her and love having her around ...

Isaac Lamb opens March 31 for a one-week run at Hawaii Theatre of the national tour of Defending the Caveman by Rob Becker.

Lamb was a member of the Sinatra Opera Workshop, a group sponsored by the Frank Sinatra Estate to further education in operatic training, and is also appearing in productions of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro and Cosi Fan Tutte ...

Rolling Stone Ron Wood, vacationing on Maui, is pictured with Chef Mark Ellman after dining at Mala in Lahaina. Ron worked on his Maui suntan before heading to Cleveland to present an award at this week’s Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame inductions ...

This week in 1964: It’s “Wigs And Pies” on the Ala Wai! The Poi Boys hold a competition on the Ala Wai Canal wearing Beatles wigs and flinging listener-contributed pies at each other while riding on little motorized rent-a-boats -remember those? Scores of fans line the banks of the canal to watch the battle and cheer us on, while Paul Revere and the Raiders play live on the roof of the K-POI building at 1701 Ala Wai ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Twist And Shout by The Beatles ...

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SPOTTED! Hot 39-year-old Austin Powers actress Heather Graham, living it up with boyfriend Yaniv Raz ...

Ellen Degeneres and her better half, Australian actress Portia DeRossi, were seen taking surfing lessons off Waikiki Beach ...

Hawaii Film Partners began production last week on You May Not Kiss the Bride, directed by Rob Hedden. It’s a romantic adventure comedy set in Chicago and Tahiti but filmed entirely on location in Hawaii, starring Dave Annable, Rob Schneider, American Pie‘s Mena Suvari, American Idol singing sensation Katharine McPhee, Vinnie Jones, Hawaii’s own Tia Carrere and Borat‘s Ken Davitian ...

 

Fun Fact: Ms. Carrere recently won a Best Hawaii Album Grammy (with Daniel Ho) for Ikena.

Your Spring Break party lineup: Thirsty Thursdays “Live” @ Zanzabar Night Club with Rick Rock - all university/college girls get VIP access all night long ... Shangri-La Friday Night @ Hush hosted by Artist Groove Network.

Drink specials galore; contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to get on the VIP list ... Beautiful Saturday Nights @ the Pearl Ultra lounge courtesy of Russell Tanoue! More info at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ...

Surf Shack Saturday @ Shack Waikiki (wristbands: no cover). Wear your board shorts and bikinis to this themed party ... Spring Break: The Nut & Bolt Special @ Dragonfly Room (Diamond Head Grill, formerly the W Honolulu).

Ladies get the bolts and men get the nuts - mingle with others and match the nut and bolt to win a prize! Put together by Kurious Productions & Flipside ...

The Band Champ finals air this Wednesday at 9 p.m. on KHON2 following American Idol. Statewide eliminations were held over the past few weeks, and of the top teen bands, these made the finals: Kauai’s 2nd Nature, Maui’s Why Bother, Big Island’s Violet Eclipse, and Oahu’s Kalani Koa.

Viewers can vote for their favorite by phone or text that night, and the winner will be announced Thursday during KHON2’s Hawaii at 6 with Joe Moore. The winning band receives $5,000 cash, a recording contract, a Washburn electric guitar, and Mobi PCS cell phone with one-year activation. Band Champ - the biggest teen band search since the ‘60s Blastoffs ...

This week in 1965: The Chantays, with their monster surf hit Pipeline, headlines the Best of Blastoff dance at H.I.C. Exhibition Hall.

The Spirits, Impacts, Dimensions and Rivals also are featured along with the winners of the recent Blastoff competition - attended by 9,000 at Waikiki Shell - Linda Green and the Tempos from Kaimuki High, who won out over 19 other Oahu high school bands. Admission: $1 ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Wooly Bully by Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs ...

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AMERICAN IDOL star Randy Jackson won’t be playing with Journey in their three sold-out Blaisdell Arena concerts. In the ‘80s when they did multiple shows in the arena, Randy was Journey’s bass player.

Congratulations to an adorable and talented ballerina. Sabrina Ocasio advanced in the Youth American Grand Prix Ballet Competition, taking first place in the San Francisco semi-finals for 9-to 11-year-olds and advancing to the international finals in New York, April 17-22 ... Fun Fact: Punahou fifth-grader Sabrina has been dancing ballet for eight years.

A Theatrical Experience!! ArtZone’s Theater on Wheels present Once Upon a Bus Sunday, March 29 at 3p.m.

Spotted on Maui! Paris Hilton and new squeeze, The Hills star Doug Reinhart. The lovebirds stayed at the Four Seasons. Paris partook in scuba-diving lessons and was photographed in her bikini with tropical parrots, beachside ... Also spotted were Joe Montana and his son Nate. The two were at the beach tossing a football back and forth in the water ... Fun Fact: Joe won four Super Bowls and three Super Bowl MVPs ...

 

Verizon Wireless Hawaii Junior World Surf Team is hosting a Send Off Party Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at Hard Rock Cafe. Attending are the 12 Hawaiian amateur world team surfers who will be competing against 29 countries in Ecuador March 27 to April 5. “These young ambassadors of Aloha will represent our islands as they surf and spread Aloha around the world,” remarked Rainos Hayes, team captain ...

More nuptials in paradise! High School Musical stars Zac Efron and fianceé Vanessa Hudgens are rumored to get married here in September. They fell in love with Hawaii last year while visiting for a friend’s wedding. Vanessa has been quoted saying “to get married on a beach so it’s perfect” and “Zac is over the moon” that Vanessa said yes.

John Carter Cash concluded a vacation last week at the Kahala ... The only son of Johnny and June just authored a children’s book, Mama Loves Her Little Son, due for release next week by Simon & Schuster.

This week in 1971, The Johnny Cash Show featuring June Carter packs the Waikiki Shell. The crowd goes wild when Johnny sings Folsom Prison Blues ... The No. 1 record is Just My Imagination by The Temptations ...

Uncle Tom’s best-selling book “Showman Of The Pacific,” written by Jerry Hopkins, is available at leading stores and online at amazon.com.

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A FEW DAYS AGO in Jimmy Buffett‘s at the Beachcomber ... After a couple of songs by Jimmy, a beautiful face appeared on the video wall singing a familiar song ... It was none other than Sheryl Crow. What a knockout and what a talent! I’ve been trying for several years to get her to come here. It was happy irony that, the next day, I got a confirmation from her agent that she’s accepted our offer and will be in Hawaii for a concert April 25 at the Waikiki Shell ...

KPOI-FM was in the red, playing what was called “elevator music.” Young entrepreneur Jesse Sartain approached me about programming album tracks by the likes of Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Aretha Franklin, The Grateful Dead and others that KPOI and other AM stations were not playing. I liked the idea and gave it a try. The new format was one of the first in the country, and KPOI-FM Sunshine became an instant success. One of the first DJs to join our team was Harvey Weinstein, who became music and program director and guided the station through five Sunshine Music Festivals in Diamond Head Crater. Weinstein was a radio pioneer who succumbed to cancer recenlty. Aloha, friend Harvey ...

Jazz legend Dave Brubeck performed in April 1961 at The Zebra Room on Kalakaua Avenue at Young Street (remember that place?). During the engagement, the then little-known pianist fractured a neck vertebrae while surfing at Waikiki. He was in danger of being paralyzed, but said, “I just didn’t have enough money to be admitted into the hospital.” He finally went to Tripler Army Hospital (he was a veteran), where he spent three weeks. The wipeout shut down the rest of his gig, and his musicians flew back to Los Angeles. But he had plenty of money a few months later with the summer release of his hit, Take Five, the first million-selling jazz single ...

Fun Facts: UH buddies of Barack Obama Sr. told Ron Jacobs that the president’s father, a huge jazz fan, may have been there during the Brubeck gig. And congrats to Whodaguy, who now adds best-selling author to his resume thanks to OBAMALAND: Who Is Barack Obama, which features a photo of the erstwhile Zebra Room!

This week in 1960: The Dave Brubeck Quartet and the Arthur Lyman Group perform at the Civic Auditorium. Ticket prices are $3.75, $3 and $2.25. Dave’s band is made up of Paul Desmond on saxophone, Gene Wright on bass, Joe Morello on drums and Dave on piano. As the lights go down and I’m introducing the group, a rat runs across the stage, passing quite close to the drums. It scares the heck out of Morello. The group launches into a brilliant set after Joe manages to calm himself down ...

The No. 1 record in Hawaii is Teen Angel by Mark Dinning ...

 

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THE SALUTE TO Maui’s guitar legend Henry Allen at Don Ho‘s was truly a night to remember, with the elite of Hawaii’s entertainers on hand to join in the tribute to Henry.

A special moment was when Ann McCormick belted out her signature song, That Old Black Magic, backed by Rene Paulo on piano, Harold Chang on drums and Ann’s son, actor Don Stroud, on congas. Now 88 years young, she sang and moved like she did when she first appeared here more than 50 years ago at the South Seas at the corner of Kalakaua and McCully on the way through town after an Australian tour with Frank Sinatra. She’s best remembered as the singing star in her popular Waikiki restaurant, the Embers ...

Fellas, have you checked out the 2009 Sports Illustrated swimsuit calendar yet? Lihue native Jarah Mariano is featured for the second year in a row.

 

She has appeared in ads for Victoria’s Secret, MAC, Armani Exchange, Sephora, Roxy, Quiksilver, Rock and Republic, Redken, H&M, Avon and Abercrombie & Fitch. She also has made several appearances in numerous fashion magazines such as Self, Taiwan Vogue, Luomo Vogue and Italian Vanity Fair.

Fun Fact: Jarah is of Hawaiian, Korean and Chinese descent and lived on Kauai until she was 4 years old.

A remarkable musical moment during Jimmy Buffett‘s Hawaii concerts. After Jimmy’s introductions, the stage cleared, leaving two masters and their instruments: Robert Greenidge with his steel drum and Jake Shimabukuro with his ukulele. The two performed an unforgettable rendition of My Guitar Gently Weeps. Audiences were dazzled.

The senior communications adviser to Gov. Linda Lingle, Lenny Klompus, has been rehearsing for the Hawaii premiere of Curtains, on stage at the Army Community Theatre now through March 14. Klopmus plays the director of a 1950s musical who finds his leading lady (Tina Shelton) murdered on opening night ...

This week in 1965: “Blast Off” is held at the Waikiki Shell featuring 20 groups on three stages, drawing nearly 10,000 fans. Linda Green and The Tempos from Kaimuki High School win the contest and receive $1,500 in cash and a recording contract ... The No. 1 record in Hawaii in 1965 is Eight Days A Week by The Beatles.

 

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HAWAII’S BUZZIN’ about Journey‘s concerts here next month, with extra buzz created by its lead singer Arnel Pine-da from the Philippines.

The cast of The Hills spotted at Sunset Beach - Lauren Conrad, Lo Bosworth, Audrina Patridge, Brody Jenner and the rest of the crew minus Heidi and Spencer filming scenes for an upcoming episode. The guys also tried out some surfing while the ladies sunned, sipped drinks, chatted, sipped drinks, giggled and met up with the guys for more drinks!

Filming at the end of March is Soul Surfer, a bio about Kauai surfer Bethany Hamilton, who had her left arm bitten off by a tiger shark some five years ago.

According to executive producer Dutch Hoff-stetter, filming will take place on the North Shore and on Kauai. Based on Hamilton’s book, Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family and Fighting to Get Back on the Board, shooting will take around 26 days. Bethany will do her own surfing sequences, but will not act in the film.

Couture Fashion Week-New York came to the Waldorf Astoria Hotel’s Starlight Roof last week. There were designer collections featuring unique creations by Soucha Couture of Egypt, Dany Atrache’ of Paris and Lebanon, Linda Ellis of Australia, as well as the producer of the event and designer Andres Aquino, models and an audience from all over the world with a huge international press turnout ... Honolulu’s very own Mahealani Diego designed all the makeup looks, from classic to outrageous, with a creative crew of makeup artists. Hairstyles were created by Federico Calce and his excellent team from the Federico Salon NYC.

Happy Birthday to Eddie Sherman, who formerly filled this space for years. On Sunday he turned 86 and is looking terrific. As Eddie says, “Whoever has the most birthdays wins!” ...

This week in 1952: Louis Armstrong performs at the Civic Auditorium. More than 5,000 fans pack the Civic to see “Satchmo” in his first Honolulu appearance. His band includes drummer Cozy Cole, clarinetist Barney Bigard, trombonist Russ Phillips, bassist Dale Jones, pianist Marty Napoleon and vocalist Velma Middleton ...

The No. 1 record (a 78 rpm) is Cry by Johnny Ray.

 

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