Photo courtesy Anne Namba

In fashion, nothing is static.

“You have to keep changing in order to keep current,” says Anne Namba, president of Anne Namba Designs. “You can’t just rest on your laurels.”

It’s a mentality that has allowed her business to thrive, surviving in an industry that for many others is nearly impossible even to break into.

Her philosophy has been a simple one: “If you’re going to spend your time doing it, then do a good job – you might as well do a good job, or the best job that you can do.”

This year, Namba will celebrate 25 years in business.

To say a lot has happened in the 15 years that have passed since Namba first appeared on MidWeek‘s Sept. 22, 1999, cover would be an understatement.

Twelve years ago, she opened a studio in Kakaako. Accessible to the public six days a week, it functions as a retail store for Namba’s designs.

She also has received numerous accolades, including the Roselani Medallion of Excellence from the National Society of Arts and Letters, and the Woman of Distinction honor from Girl Scouts of Hawaii. In June, she will be recognized by the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center in Los Angeles at its annual gala. Namba says it is the largest Japanese-American cultural center in the nation.

In the meantime, her newest collection is slated to be unveiled March 4 at a private event. A departure from screen printing and the use of any black, Namba instead used digital printing to create detailed and colorful floral patterns.

“It so intricate and detailed, and all very beautiful colors,” she says. “It’s an ombre from purple to blue to turquoise.

“I took a big gamble on it and, so far, the reaction is phenomenal.” Namba’s busy schedule doesn’t stop there. She also will travel to Washington, D.C., to be featured in its Cherry Blossom Festival in addition to working with cosmetics company Trish McEvoy and coordinating her nephew’s June wedding. She also will design costumes for Hawaii Opera Theatre’s The Mikado this summer, and has shows between now and May in various locations throughout California.

“I’m just all over the place,” she says.

She continues to present benefit fashion shows, and completed two last week with Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Hawaiian Humane Society. Working with the latter organization is especially personal for Namba, who recently adopted a dog from the society.

Namba continues to draw inspiration from many things (don’t be surprised to see a future line of pet wear) and applies herself to the fluidity of her craft.

“(We are) constantly analyzing and trying to be creative and stay ahead of the game,” she says.

Photo from Marc Schechter

Having arrived in Hawaii in the 1970s, fashion designer Takeo Kobayashi will bid adieu to the Islands next month when he and partner Eric Chandler move to Washington state.

“(I will miss) good people filled with aloha and wonderful friends who have filled our lives with great joy and a continued sense of promise,” he says.

There, Kobayashi and Chandler, who were featured on MidWeek‘s Dec. 15, 2006, cover, have an apple orchard on an acre of land. Though still in its initial stages, they plan to begin a new company selling rare, 100-year-old antique apple trees, which Kobayashi says can be grafted to new stock.

“We will be on the path of discovery as we identify the several types of apples in our orchard,” he says.

The duo, who founded 2Couture and are best known for their involvement in the Miss Hawaii USA and Miss Hawaii Teen USA pageants, as well as Hawaii’s Most Beautiful Man competition, among many others, doesn’t have plans to do that in Washington.

“I just want to enjoy my life,” he says.

These days, Kobayashi has turned to fine arts, spending his time painting and working with acrylic and mixed media.

He finds inspiration in life’s memories, recalling moments he spent traveling on the Mainland before coming to Hawaii, and abroad in Paris. Through his exploration of fine arts, Kobayashi says he has found deep satisfaction.

“The reason we so enjoy the fine arts is because we are able to totally and completely express ourselves,” he says, before adding that Chandler and he “will always be couture designers, as this is such an essential part of our souls.”

While on the Mainland, Kobayashi plans to show his art in various states, reconnect with the many friends he has made over the years and meet with fans who have purchased his artwork. Though he plans to live permanently in Washington, he will return here to vacation with friends and family.

After years of experience, Kobayashi says health, friendship and living a humble life have been the most important for him.

“Before, I did not understand a rock ‘n’ roll song called Born To Die; now I understand,” he says. “The journey of life is a humble experience, and I enjoyed it.

“We (would) like (to) extend a big mahalo to our dear friends who helped us, inspired us, supported us and filled our lives with kindness.”

Photo courtesy Hawaii Pacific University

After working for 10 years with one another under an affiliate agreement, Hawaii Pacific University completed a merger with Oceanic Institute Jan. 1.

This and a bevy of other research initiatives the university has undertaken continue to expand its programs.

“One big thing is making sure that our programs draw from and sustain Hawaii,” says HPU president Geoffrey Bannister, Ph.D.

In addition to its recent innovative studies regarding yellow tang, the university also has plans to build a feed mill on Hawaii Island and is working with Asian countries overseas to restore the shrimp industry.

Bannister, who was featured on MidWeek‘s cover Jan. 19, 2011, has been the university’s president since July 2011. The former New Zealand cycling champion says his term so far has been a learning experience.

“The whole community is so diverse that (it) changes the nature of the classroom from most places, because we’ve got a high mix of international students, Mainland students, locals and a great deal of diversity,” he says. “Our student body is a real asset for the learning experience.”

On the horizon for the university, which has the largest Master of Business Administration program in the state and is one of the largest providers to the military, is its Aloha Tower Project, estimated to be complete by spring or fall of next year. With a capacity for close to 300 students, the completed project will feature loft spaces and a ground-floor incubator to meet the technological needs of students to prepare business plans and have a meeting space.

Bannister also says it plans to include a Barnes & Noble, a coffee shop and a Hawaii-themed restaurant to fill the space Don Ho’s Island Grill had occupied.

“The objective is to make it somewhere the community would feel really welcomed,” he says. “We really take the more urban, long-term view, and that’s why the Aloha Tower Project makes so much sense to us, ’cause it’s nicely located to the business district.”

In the meantime, Bannister continues to work to provide his students with the practical learning experiences they desire.

“Our students tend to be students who like to get their hands on things,” he says.

HPU will celebrate its 50th birthday in September 2015. Though a relatively young university in comparison to others throughout the world, Bannister likens it to a startup, noting that the state university system itself is very recent.

“A lot of what we’re doing is building for the future,” he says.

Nathalie Walker photo

At Jim Nabors’ sprawling Diamond Head beachside retreat, photos with silver screen legends such as Debbie Reynolds and Carol Burnett are scattered throughout his house, revealing a glimpse into Hollywood’s glamorous past.

In one framed photo, Nabors stands in a crowd with TV stars Mary Tyler Moore, Dick Van Dyke and Bea Arthur, to name a few.

But the man who has starred in television and films, recorded numerous albums and headlined a show in Vegas for 35 years says the enormity of his fame still hasn’t hit him.

“I just never think of that,” he says. “It was just a lot of fun work, and I felt very blessed to be able to do that.”

He credits his humbleness to having his family alongside him his whole career – especially his mother, who lived with him until her passing.

“She was quite remarkable,” he says.

Though Nabors, who appeared on MidWeek‘s April 15, 1987, cover, has been taking the time to “just kind of lean back now,” he isn’t slowing down entirely. This year, he still plans to travel in May to the Indianapolis 500 to sing Back Home Again in Indiana to open the race.

It is a tradition that began 42 years ago, when Nabors was approached at the last minute to sing the song in front of a crowd of approximately 500,000. Popular among those who grew up watching him on TV (as Gomer Pyle), Nabors became a mainstay for the race.

“They always give me a great reception,” he says.

Aside from what will be his final performance at the Indy 500, Nabors no longer is acting and singing.

Last year, he quietly married longtime partner Stan Cadwallader in Seattle. The two have been together 39 years now, having met initially through friends.

“It’s just been grand,” he says. “If you can find your best friend in life, you better stick to ‘em; you got to hang on.”

The duo serves as event chairmen for this year’s Tuxes & Tails, Hawaiian Humane Society’s annual gala, April 5 at The Royal Hawaiian. All proceeds from “Bow Wow to Hollywoof: A Night at the A-CAT-emy” will go to HHS.

The event, in which Nabors and Cadwallader previously have participated, is of personal interest for the owners of dogs Daisy, Candy and Jimbo.

“We were poor, but we always had dogs,” Nabors recalls of his childhood. In the meantime, Nabors, who successfully underwent Hawaii’s first heart valve procedure a couple of years ago at The Queen’s Medical Center, notes that he says his prayers daily.

“I’m very blessed to have all the friends I’ve had and success,” he says. “So I really have not taken it lightly, and I thank God every day.”

Photo from Glen Eharis-Yoza

Last year, viewers across the nation tuned in to Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race as eight teams traveled more than 4,000 miles to compete to win $50,000 and ownership of their truck.

The caveat: No prior experience running a food truck was allowed.

Among them was Hawaii’s own Aloha Plate, helmed by Shawn Felipe and brothers Lanai and Adam Tabura.

After successfully overcoming a series of challenges, during which the team memorably introduced the Mainland to the wonders of Spam, Aloha Plate was crowned champion of the network’s fourth season.

“I’m glad they didn’t show it, but I wept like a proud baby,” says Lanai Tabura. “I was so proud of Shawn and my brother Adam.

“People of Hawaii have been so supportive and appreciative that we had the opportunity to share aloha, and of course, some flavor from Hawaii.”

Today, along with collaborating with local brands and utilizing local products in its dishes, Aloha Plate also partnered with Kona Coffee Purveyors to offers its own brand of coffee. Adam’s recipes also can be found in various 7-Eleven stores throughout the state. With plans to expand, the group currently is touring, making appearances at events throughout the nation and, in September, will set sail with its own cruise to Alaska.

“The Aloha Plate cruise is exciting because whoever wants to come with us is welcome to come,” says Tabura.

Suffice to say, a lot has happened in Tabura’s life since he last appeared on MidWeek‘s June 19, 2002, cover. And with much more on the horizon, Tabura shows no signs of slowing down. In addition to his Aloha Plate activities, he is focusing on a travel company he launched in 2011 after officially teaming up with Hawaii-Aloha travel agency.

“Travel really expands your mind and soul, and I like to experience it with local people,” he says.

It’s appropriately named Lanai’s Travel Club, and Tabura himself takes groups to places like Japan, Korea and the Mediterranean. In August, Tabura will lead a tour to Venice and Greece for 10 days, during which he plans to take participants to a champagne vineyard for a private tasting. The club aims to offer its travelers unforgettable experiences at affordable prices, even offering a layaway plan.

“Our goal is to give local people a chance to experience and explore the world and not have to break their bank,” he says. “I want to help people cross things off their bucket list, and I really enjoying sharing it with them.”

You can hear Tabura on 99.1FM Hawaii No Ka Oi, a station he and Augie Tulba recently launched. The duo is on air weekday mornings from 6 to 9 a.m., and listeners who have trouble tuning in to its low frequency also may find them on iHeartRadio, which allows listeners to tune in from any location.

“It’s been pretty amazing to get emails from cities I’ve never heard of, from the West to East coast,” he says.

The busy man also can be seen Mondays at 7:30 p.m. on OC16 with his latest TV show, Cooking Hawaiian Style. The show recently completed filming for its second season and will air in Las Vegas next month. Tabura fans can keep up with Aloha Plate on Facebook or at alohaplate.com, and can learn more about Tabura’s travel agency by visiting lanaistravelclub.com.

Photo from Brad Goda

It began in 1915 with a small group of women who convened to read plays. Now, it welcomes 40,000 theater patrons annually.

One year before its 100th anniversary next September, Diamond Head Theatre (DHT) continues to thrive as the third-oldest continuously operated community theater in the nation.

With much planing still to do for an anniversary gala and more, the theater is revisiting its history.

“I think we are very proud to be approaching our 100th anniversary, and it is really a testament to this community that they have supported our theater for all these years,” says Deena Dray, who has served as the theater’s executive director since 1995.

For Dray, who appeared on MidWeek‘s Dec. 15, 2004, cover, the theater’s anniversary also will mark 20 years of working alongside artistic director John Rampage.

“Over the years, we have become a solid team,” she says. “We have our differences, of course – he is the creative and I am the business person – but I respect him tremendously. I consider him not only my partner in running Diamond Head Theatre, but my friend.”

The duo has worked to establish DHT’s financial security while balancing its creative needs. It is a task they have met with success, Dray says, allowing the theater to have “been in the black” for 18 years.

“We operate efficiently and yet we don’t sacrifice our artistic sensibility to do that,” she says.

Currently, DHT is presenting Show Boat through April 20. A Broadway musical with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, the story spans 40 years and features a theater group that travels down the Mississippi River.

The show marks the debut of Anthony Feliciano as Gaylord Ravenal, and opera singer Lea Woods Almanza in the role of Magnolia Hawks. John Sloan III, also new to DHT’s stage, recently wrapped with Honolulu’s production of The Lion King, and will play Joe, singing the well-known classic Ol’ Man River. Fredrico Biven, Lisa Konove, Tricia Marciel and Alison L.B. Maldonado round out the cast.

With summer approaching, DHT also is preparing for its popular seven-week Musical Theatre Experience camp. The theater also continues to provide the community with its performing troop Shooting Stars.

“Education is No. 1 here,” says Dray. “It’s entertainment and education and volunteerism – (those) are kind of the three legs that are very important to us.”

In the near future, DHT hopes to build a new theater next to the existing one. Though a few years down the road, once the new theater is ready, DHT wants to demolish the current theater and utilize the space to create gardens and walkways.

“(Right now I am) talking to the community, making sure they know about the new theater, making sure they see what our plans are,” says Dray. “We want to be very transparent, and we want to be sure that everybody is happy with what we come up with and that we’ll be proud of the final results.”

Photo from University of Hawaii at Manoa

Had it not been for the perseverance of those who paved the way for women’s athletics and the passage of Title IX, Marilyn Moniz-Kaho’ohanohano may not have celebrated her 25th anniversary last Thursday as associate athletics director with University of Hawaii at Manoa.

“The past 25 years have been an incredible journey, and I am so grateful for all the people that have made this possible,” she says.

“Especially Dr. Donnis Thompson, Congresswoman Patsy T. Mink, Jean King, Faith Evans, Congresswoman Pat Saiki and all the women and men of the ’70s who made these opportunities available so we could achieve our dreams.”

Moniz-Kaho’ohanohano, who appeared on MidWeek‘s May 31, 1989 cover, has really been with the department much longer than 25 years.

In 1972, she played for the university’s first women’s volleyball program and was the first four-year letter winner, competing with the Rainbow Wahine until 1976.

“It’s my privilege to continue to work with them throughout these four-plus decades,” she says.

In those decades, much has changed. Today, women’s athletics operates with an $8 million budget and has grown from 98 female athletes to approximately 200.

“When I first came on board we had seven women’s sports and now we have 13,” she says. “Tremendous improvement.”

As someone who benefitted directly from Title IX, Moniz-Kaho’ohanohano has played a vital role in upholding the department’s compliance with its gender equity plan, a requirement of the NCAA that began in the 90s.

Currently titled, “Believe It, Achieve It,” its areas of focus include facilities, scholarships and opportunities for student participation. Every two years, a committee reevaluates the plan, which must be updated every five years.

“We’re still believing it and still trying to achieve it,” she says. “It’s just so important in us achieving gender equity to have those things in place.”

Because of the impact Title IX also had on the opportunities to attend professional schools, Moniz-Kaho’ohanohano was able to attend UH’s William S. Richardson School of Law.

“I got the other side of Title IX also,” she says. “I had athletic opportunity and then I had an opportunity to go to our law school.”

A member of the school’s fourth graduating class, she serves as an honorary committee member for its 40th anniversary celebration April 11 at Iolani Palace.

“I have been very fortunate to be a Rainbow Wahine and be a part of an amazing group of coaches, staff and student-athletes,” she says.

Jaimie Kim photo

The crinkles at the corners of his eyes that appear with every burst of laughter speak of the decades Danny Kaleikini has spent as an entertainer.

But in every story that provides a glimpse of his showbiz memories lies the magnetic personality that prompted former Gov. John Waihee to proclaim him “Ambassador of Aloha” in 1988.

“I can honestly say because of aloha, and because I was involved in music, I got to see the world,” he says.

These days, Kaleikini spends his spare time at Mike Sapp Fitness, where he has been exercising for 12 years, three days a week.

“I think it’s important for everyone, that way you keep yourself fit,” he says. Kaleikini first appeared on MidWeek‘s cover in December 1984, just months after the paper’s launch, and most recently the Sept. 16, 2009, cover, when he and five other seniors were recognized for their dedication to community service. It is a passion that continues to fuel Kaleikini, who is participating in this year’s Kupuna Power.

Being held today (April 16) from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the state Capitol Rotunda, Kupuna Power, helmed by state Sen. Brickwood Galuteria, aims to provide answers to any questions seniors may have.

“I was very honored to be asked to be a part of it,” Kaleikini says.

Unlike other educational seminars, the event intends to create a unique, lowkey atmosphere by melding exercise, information and entertainment provided by Kaleikini, Marlene Sai and Da Bruddahs’ Tony Silva.

Approximately 31 organizations will participate, and topics of various sessions include “avoiding identity theft” with deputy prosecuting attorney Scott Spallina, “long-term insurance” with Pamela Cunningham and more.

Attendees are encouraged to come prepared with any questions they may have about any subject. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make poi, learn how to cook a pig in an imu or find out which bait will catch you the most fish, Kaleikini says the kupuna are there to answer.

“I think we can all come together as one ohana, as one family,” he says. “And I think if you have questions, this is the time to bring it, because you’re going to get the right people to hear the right answers.”

Kaleikini himself, for example, has honed his talents from the kupuna who have enriched his life.

“If it wasn’t for them, I would have no idea of how to play a nose flute,” he says.

As someone who has benefitted greatly from kupuna, Kaleikini also encourages youths to participate in Kupuna Power, where they may gain the knowledge kupuna have to share.

“I’ve always said that we live in the greatest place in the world,” he says. “And what makes it successful and so different and unique from any other places (is) we have that magic word: A-L-O-H-A. But most important, aloha is the one thing that keeps us together, keeps us going.”

Photo from Hudson Hott

Hudson Hott’s lively personality has been hard to miss for listeners tuning in to Star 101.9 during their morning commute since she first joined the station in 1998 – especially when she’s engaging in friendly and humorous banter and debate with on-air co-host Scotty B.

“We’re just two different playing fields, like I’m still the eclectic crazy one … and he’s the ‘in bed by 9′ guy. We’re a good yin and yang,” she says.

It’s a partnership that dates back to 1999, when they first began working together. Since then, the longevity of the duo continues to attract new and old listeners, some of whom even invite the pair to emcee first birthdays and other personal events.

“Scotty and I could do the show with our eyes closed,” says Hott. “We’ve been doing it together for so long, and it’s sort of cool watching our audience grow up.”

These days, Hott, who appeared on MidWeek‘s Nov. 15, 2000, cover, is keeping herself busy with her son Julian, whom Hott jokingly says was born and raised in her studio. Now 12, he is a professional hip-hop dancer and actor, who began with 24-VII Danceforce before quickly signing with an agency in Los Angeles.

Today, his most notable roles include a spot in the Microsoft Surface Tablet commercial, the in-flight safety video that airs for Virgin America that went viral, and just a few weeks ago he was part of the opening act for Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards. He also appeared in a music video for rapper Machine Gun Kelly and recently finished filming a movie.

“It feels crazy, you know, to have somebody else in the entertainment business on a totally different level,” she says. “It’s surreal to watch.”

As a single mom, Hott spends her time flying back and forth between Honolulu and L.A., sometimes doing her show from the Golden State.

“I go pretty much every weekend; if not every weekend, every other weekend,” she says.

Though the commute keeps her incredibly busy, Hott has no plans to make a permanent move to L.A.

“It feels good to be on the same radio station for so many years, and still have that connection with our audiences’s children – you know, people who grew up with us who are now having kids,” she says. “And it’s like a big family, it really is.

“It’s like one big, huge ohana that we’ve all grown together.”

Lawrence Tabudlo photo

The scene at Kagyu Thegchen Ling in Nuuanu is serene.

Outside, the wind gently rustles branches in large trees that surround the Tibetan Buddhist meditation center that from outward appearances looks like any other neighboring home.

The facility is just as calm inside and for now is empty, though it sometimes welcomes up to 30 visitors weekly.

Expansions that were completed in 2009 allowed the center to enlarge its prayer room and add a bookstore. These are the most notable changes since its senior resident Lama Karma Rinchen was featured on MidWeek‘s April 12, 2006, cover alongside his assistant resident Lama Tempa Gyeltshen.

The duo continue to work alongside one another, teaching and leading meditation throughout the week. Though eight years have passed, Rinchen, one of the few remaining lamas who trained in Tibet, shows little sign of aging or slowing down. His soft smiles and calm demeanor are an infectious embodiment of the religion he teaches, and his goals remain simple and concise.

“I want to help people,” he says.

At the root of Tibetan Buddhism is a desire to discover and achieve inner happiness.

Contemplative meditation, Rinchen says, not only allows people to understand the causes of happiness, but also the unexpected suffering everyone encounters in life.

“(If you) only hear things (but don’t) contemplate, then you cannot learn,” he says. “But when you meditate and contemplate, then practice, sooner or later it works.”

Kagyu Thegchen Ling will host the North American Kagyu Monlam three-day prayer festival May 9-11 at Neal Blaisdell Center. The annual event takes place in eight different countries and began in North America in 2010.

This is the first year it will take place in Hawaii, and Rinchen expects approximately 200 attendees from various countries.

Open to the public for a fee, each day is scheduled to run from 8:30 a.m. to about 5:30 p.m. and will include prayers, meditation and Buddhist dharma teachings. On Sunday (May 11), a traditional Tibetan procession will take place and will include all monastic participants dressed in traditional garb and accompanied by Tibetan musical instruments.

“It feels good,” he says, of Kagyu Monlam coming to Hawaii.

Rinchen himself has lived in the Islands since arriving in 1976 after traveling to numerous countries.

“I think Hawaii has the best weather,” he says, his smile growing. “In Hawaii, (it’s) just slippers, shirt, you know, very nice.”

For more information on Kagyu Monlam, visit kagyumonlamhawaii.org.

Photo from Elyse Butler

Ignace “Iggy” Jang’s musical career began at an age when most can only dream of what to become when they grow up.

Inspired by recordings his mother would play, Jang began his violin studies at the tender of age 5.

“It’s been a long journey, and as I get older, what I enjoy about it is that I feel that I can still learn from playing the violin,” he says. “If you do it right, then you can hopefully communicate without using words – and that’s, I think, ultimately what I would like to achieve.”

Concertmaster for Hawaii Symphony Orchestra (HSO), and before that Honolulu Symphony since 1997, Jang, whose parents are from Korea, was born and raised in France. Though he’s since lived and worked in a variety of places, it’s Hawaii’s interactive diversity that he says is unique and something he continues to enjoy.

He says he finds it difficult to describe what his job entails as HSO’s concertmaster, explaining that his years of experience allow him to rely on body language and instinct.

“(I’m) just trying, in my own way, to make the orchestra more unified, I guess, as one voice,” he explains.

This Sunday, HSO features Jang as a violin soloist along with guest conductor Gerard Schwarz at Neal Blaisdell Concert Hall. A “concert conversations” session, hosted by University of Hawaii West Oahu assistant professor of music Jon Magnussen, is slated for 3 p.m. before the concert, which begins at 4.

And since it’s taking place Mother’s Day, HSO will offer a free lei to the first 100 mothers who walk through the doors.

The program will open with Jang performing Mozart’s Symphony No. 39, which he describes as a soulful and in-depth piece. He then will perform Mozart’s Adagio for Violin and Orchestra, and Paganini’s La Campanella alongside HSO.

“People can look forward to hopefully being seduced by the first piece and mesmerized by the second half,” he says.

When he isn’t performing, Jang can be found teaching aspiring musicians. In addition to being on the University of Hawaii at Manoa’s Music Department faculty, Jang offers private lessons to high school students. This summer, he also is involved with Hawaii Performing Arts Festival, a camp open to children of all ages.

“I think you just try to pass on whatever legacy your own teacher passed on to you,” he says.

For tickets to Jang’s performance and more information, call 593-2468 or visit hawaiisymphonyorchestra.org.

Photo courtesy Lee Donohue

For most people, retirement means shedding a busy schedule to make way for free time to spend recreationally. But 10 years after retiring as Honolulu Police Department’s chief of police, Lee Donohue seems to be experiencing quite the opposite.

Officially, he serves as director of security with Securitas Security Services Inc.’s California-Hawaii region, and he runs his own private investigation business, utilizing the knowledge and experience he gained from 40 years with HPD.

Then there is karate school American Karate Kai, of which he is owner and sensei, and the approximately 10 nonprofit organizations with which he is involved.

“I’m so busy, I’m working more now than ever,” he admits with a laugh. This Friday evening (May 16), Honolulu Police Community Foundation holds its seventh-annual fundraising event. The foundation, which Donohue co-founded in 1997, was inspired by his own visit to New York Police Foundation.

“We went and we saw a lot of good things that they did for the police department and the community, (so) I brought the idea back,” he explains.

Money raised during the fundraiser support the organization’s community and HPD-related endeavors.

Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $100,000 in scholarships to college-bound students in the community. It also provides HPD with money to purchase equipment to improve the quality of safety for officers in the field, and funds medical-alert devices for the elderly through Honpa Hongwanji’s Project Dana.

The evening also will honor Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), and Visitors Aloha Society of Hawaii, a nonprofit funded by HTA that assists visitors who fall victim to theft or lost property.

“We kind of look to the community for people who deserve the recognition,” he says.

Donohue, who was on MidWeek‘s July 22, 1998, cover, also continues to aim his passion and experience as an eighth-degree black belt toward Kick Start Karate, a nonprofit he co-founded in 1994. Open to youths ages 6-18, it is a Police Activities League program that educates and encourages character development through martial arts. Annually, the free program welcomes about 100 participants.

“I’ve always been involved with kids, and I guess it’s just been part of my way of giving back,” he says.

To attend Honolulu Police Community Foundation’s event and for more information, call 396-1733 or visit honolulupolicecommunityfoundation.org.

Photo courtesy Natalie Ai Kamauu

Natalie Ai Kamauu’s personality is as charming as her music, which has entranced and entertained fans with each new venture.

Last year, she released Eia through Mountain Apple Company. An anthology CD, it combines the names and songs of her first three albums ‘E, ‘I and ‘A.

Though some fans have questioned whether Kamauu will name her follow-up albums after the last two vowels, she feels it is complete with the release of Eia.

“I did that to close that chapter,” she says. “And it just so happens to be super cool that ‘eia’ means ‘here,’ so those three albums are stepping stones that have brought me here.”

Kamauu, who appeared on MidWeek‘s Nov. 28, 2008, cover, also recently released Moana Memories, an exclusive album only available to the public at Moana Surfrider’s Moana Lani Spa.

The project began last July when the resort sought to use her music in its spa. It eventually led to an entire compilation album, played and timed perfectly to Moana Lani’s lomi lomi facial.

“The rhythm of the lomi lomi goes with the rhythm of the song,” she explains.

Also on Moana Memories is a song written specifically for Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, titled The First Lady of Waikiki.

Inspired by an overnight visit at the resort, Kamauu sought to incorporate the emotions and feelings it stirred.

“I asked if I could stay in the older part of the hotel so that I could really be inspired not only by what it looked like, but also even the creaking of the floors, and even the smell,” she says. “All those things inspired me.”

These days, Kamauu no longer teaches with her family’s hula halau, though she does work closely with her sister on musical arrangements. As always, Iolani, her husband of 23 years and musical companion, plays a vital role in all Kamauu accomplishes.

“I can’t do anything without him. Are you crazy?” she says with a laugh. “If they could know everything he does, they would see that he really does more than me.”

Currently, Kamauu is in the studio recording her next album, which is slated to be released in November. Though there is no album title yet, she’s certain of the direction she’s taking with each song.

“I’m going to stick with the original,” she says, “what I love, what speaks to me, and hopefully, if the song speaks to me, then I can translate it into a new version of how I feel, and people will be able to feel what I feel.”

Photo from Hawaii National Guard Youth Challenge Academy

As a senior at Aiea High School, Nolan “Alika” Kaahanui was lost.

Dabbling in substance abuse and far from receiving his high school diploma, he already was on probation and facing another year of it. Then, in a gas station, he stumbled upon a brochure for Hawaii National Guard’s Youth Challenge Academy (YCA).

After showing it to his counselor and speaking about it with his probation officer and judge, Kaahanui eventually enrolled in the program.

What followed wasn’t an overnight transformation. The military-style program was physically and mentally demanding, and within the first week, Kaahanui wanted out.

Threatening the staff and on the verge of doing anything he could to leave, Kaahanui was placed in a room with one of the program’s participating sergeants. What ensued was a session of some very tough love, but it also made Kaahanui realize that he did not want to fail his grandparents, who always had been there for him.

Luckily, YCA gave Kaahanui a second chance. “And thank God they did,” he says. “It was life-changing; it actually saved my life.”

Kaahanui eventually graduated from the program’s second class with his high school diploma, though his release from YCA wasn’t a smooth transition. Soon Kaahanui found himself meeting his “old self.”

One day, his mother returned from a period of abandonment that had left Kaahanui in charge of his eight siblings. With nothing to eat and no money, he sought to take the family to his grandparents’ home.

On that same day, a mentor, with whom he had been placed as a graduate of YCA, called asking to hang out. Informing him of the situation, Kaahanui asked for a ride.

“He didn’t even have to think about it, he just said, ‘Sure,’” Kaahanui says of his mentor, who lived in Kailua, while he and his family lived in Makaha.

As he and his siblings went through their closets looking for items to take with them, he stumbled upon his old YCA uniform.

“I looked at it and I just dropped to my knees,” he says. “That’s the only time in my life everything was going right when I was wearing that uniform — that’s the only time I saw my ‘reflection.’”

Today, Kaahanui is a technical sergeant with Hawaii Air National Guard and a father of three with one more on the way. His busy schedule prevents him from being as active in YCA as he once was, though someday he hopes to become the program’s director.

This year, YCA, which was featured on MidWeek‘s May 16, 2012, cover, celebrates 20 years. Since its inception, the program has seen the successful graduation of more than 3,600 teenagers, many of whom have been in similar situations of distress and in need of direction and motivation.

On July 18, YCA will hold an anniversary dinner to honor Kaahanui and two other YCA graduates, Boyd Torricer-Montero and Anthony Selvanathan.

Proceeds from the evening will be used to establish a computer lab program at its Kalaeloa and Hilo campuses.

For tickets, call 497-7264.

Photo courtesy Dita Holifield

Dita Holifield’s electrifying country crooning has captivated local audiences for years, both on stage and over radio airwaves.

Currently director of sales for all of SALEM Communications’ seven Hawaii stations, she no longer hosts Country 97.5′s morning show. “It’s hard to take the entertainer out of me,” she says. “I miss it.”

But Holifield, who appeared on MidWeek‘s March 3, 2002, cover, hasn’t completely gone behind the curtains. For the past two-and-a-half years she has been performing with her latest band, Dita Holifield’s Hillbilly House. The band has opened for country legends such as Alan Jackson and Toby Keith, and most recently opened for Florida Georgia Line’s sold-out performance at Neal S. Blaisdell Center.

“It’s been a good year,” she says.

Aside from her musical career, the Texas transplant, who has called Oahu’s Windward side home for the past 24 years, also devotes her time to the community. Inspired by other local female performers who have done the same, Holifield sees it as her way to “thank the local community for what they did for my career in Hawaii as a country entertainer.”

Lately, these efforts have gone toward reviving Waimanalo’s rodeo after a 10-year hiatus. Holifield has committed to five years with the event and hopes to continue to build its presence in the community.

Dubbed Dita Holifield’s All American Rodeo, the event kicks off Friday (June 20) at with a 7 p.m. show and continues Saturday (June 21) with shows at 1 and 7 p.m. at New Town & Country Stables. A portion of proceeds will go to Kamaaina Kids, Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii, Bikers Against Child Abuse and Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The show will feature more than 100 animals and a full list of 155 competitors facing off in competitions such as bull riding, team roping and bareback bronc riding.

“It’s going to be like going to the X Games, only with animals,” she says. “The show is going to be amazing.”

Aloun Farms will sponsor a watermelonand corn-on-the-cob-eating contest for keiki. Also on site for families to enjoy will be a petting zoo, pony rides, dunk tank, climbing wall, mechanical bull, food, live music and more.

Local artists Patrick Ching and Jeff William will paint 4-foot ceramic cowboy boots. Proceeds from the sale of both boots will benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“Dust off your cowboy boots, your Wranglers, your cowboy shirts and hats, and giddy on up to Waimanalo,” Holifield says with a laugh.

Presale tickets are available at rodeo.kamaainakids.com, hawaiisalem.com, Dixie Grill and Whiskey Dix Saloon in Aiea and Nashville Waikiki. Tickets can be purchased at the door, but are subject to availability.

Photo courtesy Hawaii State Public Library System

Gone are the libraries of the past — where technology was not much more than a fanciful concept of the future seen only in the books that lined its shelves.

These days, patrons don’t even have to make a trip to any of Hawaii State Public Library System’s (HSPLS) 50 branches to look up a book, place it on hold or even renew its due date. All of this now can be done through a downloadable app or online.

HSPLS also has enhanced its services to include e-learning courses and programs, allowing access to more than 80 online databases.

“It’s letting us provide more materials in more ways to more people than we’ve ever been able to in the past,” says state librarian Richard Burns.

A partnership with Microsoft, for instance, has allowed it to become the only statewide public library system in the world to offer free access to the Microsoft IT Academy and Digital Literacy Training Program. Participants are able to obtain online digital literacy and advanced technological training.

In 2010-2013, it also received two federal Broadband Technology Opportunity Program grants totaling $36 million. Partnering with University of Hawaii and the state Department of Education allowed the organizations to provide free wireless Internet access for all public library locations, as well as high-speed fiber-optic connectivity for all libraries, public schools and community college campuses, among other improvements, according to a release.

It’s only a fraction of what HSPLS has accomplished in recent years, and much of it can be credited to Burns, who leads the system.

“It’s exciting times for public libraries,” he says.

At the end of this year, Burns, who appeared on MidWeek‘s April 30, 2013, cover, will retire, marking an end to more than 30 years of working with HSPLS, with seven spent as state librarian.

“I think it’s time,” he says. “I think over the last several years we’ve positioned the Hawaii State Public Library System very well to continue to expand and further library services statewide.

“And working with the (Board of Education), we’ve developed a high quality strategic plan that lays the foundation for future growth and future successes.”

In his time with HSPLS, he not only has enjoyed working with those who have walked through its doors, but also those who make all of its services possible.

“To be able to work with such a wonderful group of dedicated people who work so hard to provide so many resources and programs and services for the people of Hawaii has just been very rewarding and very inspirational,” he says.

Though he doesn’t yet know what retirement will bring, one thing is certain: “Retirement will let me read much more, that’s for sure,” he says with a laugh.

Jaimie Kim photo

Seven years ago, Honolulu FBI special agent in charge Charles L. Goodwin was forced into retirement — a mandatory requirement for agents at age 57.

But looking at him now, it’s impossible to imagine how he could be even older than that.

“I’ll be 64 this year, but you know, I’m in as good shape as people who are 57 years old,” he says with a laugh.

Goodwin’s career with the FBI spanned more than 25 years and had him working in offices across the nation.

In 2003, trying to decide between moving to San Antonio or Honolulu, Goodwin and wife Diane made the “easy” decision to move to the Islands. Here, he led the FBI office and was responsible for the Hawaiian Islands, and all trust territories and U.S. interests in the Pacific.

“I miss it — all of it,” he says, noting that he especially misses seeing and interacting regularly with those in other law enforcement and government agencies with whom he worked closely.

Retirement, however, has not meant a slower pace of life. In fact, it’s been quite the opposite.

Goodwin, who likes to keep in shape, works as a security consultant for the PGA Tour. Along with six other consultants, all former FBI agents, Goodwin acts as a liaison between the tour and its tournaments, as well as the police, paid security, volunteers and other individuals involved. At every event, at least one security consultant is present, overseeing security and risk management for the tour.

“It’s not FBI work,” he says, laughing. “It’s challenging, but in a different sense.

“I’ve made a lot of new friends in the police officers who work with us on the tour. There are some great organizations and some really great people out there.”

It certainly isn’t a bad gig for Goodwin, who enjoys playing golf in his spare time. While he has had the opportunity to meet nearly every golfer, none of it has fazed Goodwin.

“I’m not at all what you call ‘starstruck’ or taken with these guys,” he says. “They put their pants on like you do every day — they just happen to be much better golfers.”

In addition to the PGA Tour, he is involved with the U.S. Marine Corps, working to develop a museum. He also sits on the board of directors for Pacific Aviation Museum, which is of particular interest to Goodwin, who is a pilot.

“I doubt that I’ll ever ‘retire’ retire,” he says. “I’m just not wired that way. I’ve got to have something to do.”

Photo courtesy Blake M. Nuibe

Imagine a group of boys ages 7 to 12 standing perfectly still on stage for about 45 minutes.

As quixotic as it may seem, this is no hypothetical situation.

For 28 boys who comprise Honolulu Boy Choir, it’s just business as usual.

In 1974, Roy and Nyle Hallman founded Honolulu Boy Choir at Central Union Church, inspired by Vienna Boys’ Choir and others across the nation. It primarily served to provide boys from all ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds with an opportunity for a musical education.

For current and past participants, however, lessons learned from Honolulu Boy Choir extend far past musical experiences.

“In training the boys to stand still on the choral riser, to focus on the choral director, to listen to the music — you develop poise (and confidence),” says current executive director Blake M. Nuibe.

Nuibe’s involvement with Honolulu Boy Choir dates back to 1989, when his son first joined. He quickly became invested in the program throughout the years and officially re-joined the organization in 2007 as executive director, a voluntary position.

“I love working with the kids,” he says.

Many former Honolulu Boy Choir members have gone on to professional careers in music. Past members include Jordan Segundo, Weldon Kekauoha, Fred Kamaka Jr. and many others, including MidWeek columnist Roberto Viernes.

This winter, Honolulu Boy Choir will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a Dec. 20 concert. Nuibe hopes to reunite as many alumni as possible to participate in a couple of musical numbers, including This Is Our Island Home, its signature song.

“Part of the reason we’ve been able to go on for so long is through the generosity of individuals in the community,” says Nuibe. “A special ‘mahalo’ to Central Union Church for its generosity and for providing a home for the Boy Choir.”

These days, children’s schedules are packed with extracurricular activities, making it difficult for some who have wanted to commit to the choir’s twice-weekly rehearsals.

Currently, Honolulu Boy Choir is recruiting new members. In the past, Nuibe says it has accommodated as many as 175 boys.

The only requirements are that boys be between the ages and 7 and 12, and have a cheerful smile. Previous musical experience is not required. Auditions are conducted by appointment only and should take only 10-15 minutes.

Those interested in joining Honolulu Boy Choir should call 596-SING (7464) or email Nuibe at bnuibe@hotmail.com. Nuibe also encourages past members who would like to participate in the 40th anniversary concert to contact him.

Photo courtesy surfpix.com

Bitsy Kelley’s earliest memories are of time spent learning the ins and outs of her family’s business, Outrigger Enterprises Group.

When she was old enough, Kelley was tasked with stopping at the hotels before school to sweep out laundry rooms, re-stock soap and clean lint drawers.

“The hotels were a part of our everyday life with our family,” she says. Founded by her grandparents Roy and Estelle Kelley, it’s a mentality that has enabled Outrigger Enterprises Group to survive into its fifth generation of family members.

“It doesn’t come without work,” she says. “We work really hard as a family to have regular meetings, to communicate a lot and to educate the next generation about the business and how to work together.”

Kelley, who was featured on MidWeek‘s May 9, 2001, cover, recently returned to the Islands after living on the Mainland for a little over a decade, though she never stopped working for the company.

The decision came after a phone call from brother-in-law and Outrigger Enterprises Group president and CEO W. David P. Carey III, who expressed his desire for her to return home as the company underwent its next stages of growth. Moving home also meant Kelley would be able to spend more time with her two grandchildren.

With three locations and an additional corporate headquarters in Thailand, its newest addition is a property in Mauritius, an island off the coast of Madagascar. Outrigger Enterprises Group will be building in Vietnam and Hainan, China, and constantly is seeking opportunities for further growth in the Indian Ocean area.

“Knowing that we were doing this strategic growth and knowing that we want to continue to grow the business with the future generations of the family, I wanted to help be a part of taking the company to the next level and perpetuating the family business for future generations of the family,” she says.

As it branches out globally, Kelley, who serves as the company’s vice president of corporate communications, emphasizes a focus on sustainability. Aside from general practices and conservation efforts, Outrigger Enterprises Group works with employees and the community to enhance each location’s culture.

“Whether it’s in music or in art, or in language or in storytelling, it’s sustaining that culture not only for the visitors to enjoy,” she says, “but for future generations so that you don’t lose your culture.”

Sustainability is a topic of personal importance for Kelley, who enjoys the outdoors, and also hunts and fishes for her meals.

Locally, Outrigger Enterprises Group is looking to update and revitalize Outrigger Reef on the Beach, a final phase of its Waikiki Beach Walk project.

“(As we are) growing out in the Pacific and Asia-Pacific, we are still dedicated to Hawaii,” says Kelley. “We are still a Hawaii-born and -bred company.”

Mark Hussman photo

If you haven’t yet seen Janel Parrish on ABC Family’s Pretty Little Liars, you never would guess she’s currently on the ballot to win the Teen Choice Awards’ Choice TV Villain.

For most, it would be difficult to get past her friendly face and imagine her as someone capable of bad behavior. Fans of the show, however, certainly won’t be surprised.

In the series, currently in its fifth season, she plays Mona Vanderwaal. But for all her villainess tendencies, Parrish has given dimension to her role, portraying an emotional depth that continues to entrance viewers.

“She is a very complex character and ultimately just wants to protect herself,” says Parrish. “I just try to play with all the layers so that she isn’t just a villain.

“She’s a person, and everything she does, she does to survive.”

Her popularity on the show and with fans has earned Parrish the Choice TV Villain award for the past two years.

“It’s such an honor to be acknowledged for what I am so passionate about,” she says.

Parrish, who appeared on MidWeek‘s Jan. 9, 2013, cover, also has spent her time adding to an already impressive resume.

“I have a very exciting project coming up that I can’t speak about yet,” she teases.

Soon, Parrish can be seen on the big screen in High School Exorcism and is finishing up The Concerto alongside Jackson Rathbone. Since December, she also has been working with For The Record Productions in Los Angeles, Calif.

“(It) is an amazing live theater production, bringing famous directors’ works to life in a musical mashup,” she says.

On the horizon, Parrish, who also has a background in music, hopes to do a musical movie or TV show.

“Anything where I can bring music and acting together,” she says, adding that she also one day hopes to work with film director Baz Luhrmann.

A “Hawaii girl at heart,” Parrish, who grew up in Kaneohe, also says she is due for a trip home. During visits, Parrish says she enjoys spending time with her family, eating local food, going to the beach and driving to the North Shore, among other activities.

“I miss Hawaii a lot, but the main thing I miss is the aloha spirit,” she says. “It’s so special, and I haven’t found it anywhere else.”

This year’s Teen Choice Awards airs Sunday (Aug. 10) on FOX. Fans who would like to vote for Parrish to win Choice TV Villain may do so online at teenchoiceawards.com. Voters must be ages 13-19 and voting ends at 11:59 p.m. Saturday.