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Japan, March 2012 pt 1 of 3

Alan Okami — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:17:27 +0000
This year, we been more than gypsies. They got nothin' on us I tell you. Through the end of March, we had officially been away longer than at home. This month marks the only month we've planted our roots here in the 808 State.
Trip starts off at HNL airport as we cruise the Japan Airlines Lounge, courtesy of Okubo san. He's the COO of JAL here in Hawaii. Made friends working on the Rainbow for Japan Kids stuff we been doing. Free coffee, pastries and soup. Emphasis on the coffee...
Before we knew it, we were in Tokyo Japan. Actually, wasn't quite that fast. 10-1/2 hours til our hotel. Here's the view from the room overlooking the lobby. Gorgeous hotel!
Adjoining the hotel is a kind of galleria of eateries. This is pretty neat in Japanese culture. Whever you go, there's always some kind of hub that you can find a lot of things from food to personal amenities. Which brings me to my first meal in Japan on this trip, red miso udon with shrimp tempura. This warm bowl of goodeness totally hit the spot after a long flight into Narita & the following bus ride into Tokyo. Next day was already showtime as we headed out to the first event we had planned, "The KoAloha Story" part one. We were able to sell the house out at Aloha Table in Tokyo. The place was wall to wall with folks that came over to enjoy the film and music. The place is comfortable and does quite a decent Hawaiian menu. All the heart is there, but Hawaiian ingredients are a little challenging. No mo Foodland over there... Got to hang with 'lil Faithy again (remember the visit to the elementary school?). Soon she'll be off to pursue her masters degree in education. Even got to welcome two of our newest supported artists, brother team, Kazuki and Naoto Imai. Theses two boys are talented and humble. You can find them on FB. Their mother can be found under the name Reiko Imai. Closing out the night was a total surprise for me. Someone let the cat out of the bag that it was my birthday. The staff at the restaurant prepared for me my first ever ukulele shaped cake. I was truly touched. Spending it away from family was hard, but all the love and aloha made it much better. More to come from Japan.


Back to NAMM/Vegas part 2 of 2
Alan Okami — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 01:05:01 +0000
After dining on such wonderful cuisine at Bernini, let's head back to my travels as of late. By the way, Bernini just celebrated their first anniversary and added a few items to their menu. Go check them out and see what I'm raving about. 
Flashback to January 2012 and we are in Anaheim as we often are that time of the year, attending the annual NAMM show. It's one of the world's largest and arguably best musicial manufacturer's trade show, touching markets from around the world. We're always knocking out business there, but also try to factor in some R&R in the process. In fact, we often get teased about how little we're at the show itself. That either tells of how effective or truant we are. 
This year, we decided to factor in a trip to Vegas! 2012 marks a year that we will expand as never before and heading into this year of hard work, we needed a refresher. Took two hard working staff as their reward for going above and beyond the call the past year.



Thanks to family discount, we were able to roll in style in luxury vehicles provided by Enterprise Car Rentals, hitting the strip, taking in all the sights and sounds. Unlike other places, it's not safe to say that the place hasn't changed. Vegas seems to change each time I head there.



Home base was minutes off the strip at Silverton Hotel and Casino. Find Bass Outdoor World and you find the hotel. Here's the huge tank located right inside the lobby.



Of course we funned it up while there. Took a lover's ride in the gondolas, Venetian hotel. Was soooo romantic, despite being the "only guys" gondolas riding around.



I tried my hand at making some extra dough, but something just wasn't right. I blame my costume....BTW, I'm the guy with the tshirt....ha ha



If not for the weight, this baby would have made its way home with me. Perfect for Medieval Martial Arts training sessions with brother Wolf and crew.



You might be wondering what this is....



SImple answer, Heaven, one bowl at a time. This is the most amazing thing I've eaten in quite a while. It's a bowl of lobster bake, available only at Palace Station's Oyster Bar on the casino floor. Forget the oysters (we didn't though), head straight for these bowls of decadence! I dream of this stuff.





Food is a big part of whenever we travel and of course, of this blog. No wonder I'm constantly trying to lose weight....

We went to Osaka Japanese Restaurant, 10 minutes out of the bright lights and were not disappointed one bit. I've traveled the world as of late and have eaten at some of the best places. Proud to say that Osaka delivers. Not your typical "mainland" failed attempt at doing Japanese. It's the real McCoy. They are one of the only places that I know of that serve the full fare; teppan, sushi, teishoku & ramen. 
NAMM & Vegas, thanks for the recharge. It's 3 months later and I think I need another one soon. Set a place for me at the oyster bar and I'll be right there.



Bernini!
Alan Okami — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 08:11:52 +0000
Let's take a break from travels, cause Lord knows I'm tired from traveling. Seems like I've been in a constant state of jet lag lately. so join me as I celebrate a good find here in the local dining scene. True to Hawaii's "small world" nature, of course there's some personal ties here. Come to find, this place is my friend's cousin's place or something like that 



It was birthday month in the Okami house and my kids got some expensive taste. No McDonald's here. Good stuff, so we headed to Bernini. It's located in the old Sweet Nothings location on Waimanu Street, just a block away from Ala Moana.



While it's stylish and chic, the atmosphere is warm and pleasant. The night we went, seemed like it was a who's who amongst Honolulu notables. I sat right next to Bill McCorriston and over to the back was Rick Blangiarti of Hawaii News Now.



I'm not a wine drinker (most times) but they have quite a nice selection as far as I could see.



They stock fresh ingredients as claimed on the menu and the items were all delightful.



Hard at work, these are the folks that create the magic that comes from the kitchen. The place is spotless and easy to see that this is not one of the kitchens to hide.



We started with what I believe was the largest asparagus in the world. They were prepared wonderful. Despite their gargantuan size, they were firm, yet soft and sooo sweet. The best asparagus I've ever had. Now I cannot buy em at the market.....sigh



Then we followed that with an amazing scallop salad. The flavors tingled in my mouth and the scallops added the light delicate balance to the vinegarette.





Even though I'm on a starch diet, I cannot resist a good pasta. These two dishes did not fail me. Four plates into our meal and I was absolutely amazed.



With two young ones, of course we ordered pizza too. This one has got to be the first time I've ever had a clam pizza. This was as good as it looks. Melty cheese goodness with seafood galore.



Just as I thought it couldn't get any better, we ended our meal with this incredible steak. The selection of beef was tender and juicy, bursting with flavor. Incredible!



According to co-owner Motoyo Koyata, their fares are inspired by their trips to Italy. They feature traditional meals, prepared in the modern fashion of Italy today. The flavors and ingredients are meant to take us on a trip to Europe.
They will be celebrating their 1st anniversary this week and adding a new menu item in celebration. I loved the place, but don't take my word for it. Make reservation (space fills up fast) and see what I'm raving about.
Bon appetit! (wait, that's French)
Bernini Honolulu

1218 Waimanu St. Honolulu, HI 96814
Open 5:30PM~11:00PM (Tue~Sun)

Last Order: 10:30PM

(808) 591 8400Telephone:

(808) 593 9200FAX:

E-mail: info@berninihonolulu.com



NAMM Show/Vegas Part 1 of 2
Alan Okami — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 07:00:57 +0000
Yeah, I'm in a writing mood. Mostly, I'm caught up with most of my work and I was out sick today. Being the hyper active person I am, I decided to write another post. It's not that I don't have content, in fact, I may too much. Life's been a blur and I can hardly keep pace with it. This year has proven to be more of the same and here's how my adventures began this year:
Most new year, we schedule a trip to attend the annual NAMM show in Anaheim (North American Music Manufacturers) It's one of the largest musical expos in the world and arguably the most productive, over Shanghai and Frankfurt.



This is a "stolen" picture as they don't approve of them, but no one ever checks or stops you....does that make it right? This is an area near where we spotted Stevie Wonder. Wanted to take his picture, but part of my entourage was kindly shoved away by large bodyguard saying "NO PICTURES, NO PICTURES!!" Like Stevie would know.....I know, bad joke, but I was offended.



I couldn't help but wonder what in the world our folded towels were supposed to be. Looks a little PG-13 to me....



We got to hang out with one of our newest artists, Gabe Bondoc. He's a YouTube sensation. His ukulele video garnished 50,000 views just two days after posting. Wow! He's a great guy and a wonderful addition to our KoAloha ohana. Here we are as he treats the folks at Island Bazaar, HB, to a free, surprise appearance. Hoping to take Gabe with us to Asia soon.



After Island Bazaar, we were hungry, so our tour guide extraordinaire and bestest buddy in HB, Tom Noble, kindly recommended 50/50. It's a nice burger joint that features a 50/50 split of ground beef and bacon burgers. OMG! Heaven!





We were in awe to see such beautiful creations. This is my brother's burger and mine. We were all into the beef, while some of their customers forgot about the burgers and were going gaga for Gabe.



Day 2 was more NAMM show, but we got to sneak in some Downtown Disney time after working. Here's a shot of the security area where I got stopped. I made it through the checkpoint, but was politely greeted by a girl saying, "Excuse me sir, you have something in your pocket that's not allowed here..." She was referring to my knife. Apparently, it's Disney contraband. What she didn't know is that I actually had two, ha ha.



OK, enough with the blade. Mickey Mouse rules here, so I paid homage to him by taking a picture with his ears. I love Disneyland. I admit I work hard and this place is a great escape from reality. The staff is all super friendly and helpful (with the exception of the grouches at the garden bar) and the atmosphere is so unmistakably Disney.



Part of our trip is always about bonding too. Following tradition, we headed to THE Joe's Crab Shack in Newport, out favorite location. Is there another anyways? Newport is the place we discovered them and as far as we're concerned, it's the place to be.



Joe's is famous for their fun atmosphere and of course the food. Their steampots are the best, I swear. At Newport, you eat overlooking the boat harbor and can see folks traveling in and out of the channel. It's awesome.



I was so caught up in the hype that I think I may have had a zen experience.



Finally, we headed back to Anaheim after another fun night and stopped at a Gelato place in HB. The gelato was terrific, but the real treat came as we left.
My brother was accosted by a wicked horde of 13 year old girls. They mocked him about his Fu Man Chu goatee, chanting, "Respect! Respect!" and gesturing with moustaches made with their fingers. My brother was so embarrassed that he didn't even get angry. That was the best dessert I ever had.
More to come as we conquer Vegas on this working vacation.



2012 Good Times a Rollin'
Alan Okami — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 07:48:45 +0000
Took my first trip out to Aulani about a month ago and I was quite impressed. Hats off to Disney for being sensitive to Hawaii's culture. I was expecting "Disney-esque" pomp and circumstance, but was delightfully met with a beautiful property.



The property is sprawling with waterways, canals and pools that create a whimsical, imaginative setting that only Disney can create.



I was tempted to jump in and join in the fun, but that's reserved for paying guests. Be sure to check them out to enjoy all the hotel has to offer.



The chefs on property are committed to ensure that the pools are not the only thing you remember. While I can't remember the name of eatery, I do remember that I really enjoyed my food (along with some bites of my family's meals as well)

For those of you just not into hotel food, Aulani is conveniently located minutes away from Kapolei Marketplace, insuring that any fixation for a plate lunch goes satisfied.



We started 2012 in good fashion with a hang out day with my boys from work. They gave me a great year in 2011 and I wanted to give them a paid day off (hanging out together)
We started out our day, supporting a local eatery, Todai, in Waikiki. We ate until we were stuffed and I got the crew there to sing Happy Birthday for Doos, complete with the Todai man in tow.



Then off we went to the main attraction of the day, Waikiki Gun Club. Their rates are very reasonable and children as young as 7 can fire away. The excitement built up as we got our orientation and signed all the "will not sue if we die" papers, ha ha. Just kidding.



The guys looked a little too comfortable shooting the guns if you ask me. *Note to self* - be VERY nice to the crew.....



After all the rounds were fired, we took a vote and awarded the winner a gift certificate to enjoy another session at WGC. 

I've been traveling a bit this year, going back to fall of 2011. It's been tiring, but the future looks very bright as we keep steady in the ukulele biz and promote our beloved Hawaii. There's much more travel ahead and we will be sure to keep visiting hospitals, orphanages, children's homes, schools and all that define the heart of our business. Of course food and fun are an important part of what we do as well. Stay tuned as I'll feature what I can, here on Ka Leo.
Waikiki Gun Club is very safe and well monitored by a capable staff. We are not advocates of violence of firearms. Our outing was intended to be a bonding experience for our shop. 



2011 Year End Recap Pau, 3 of 3
Alan Okami — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 07:25:37 +0000
Wow, what a year. Every fall, I get nervous about the new year as it's not typically heading into our busiest time. While we aren't really seasonal, the opening is a time of adjustments and creativity. This year and last proved to be otherwise. Looking towards 2012, we are anticipating to be even busier. Lucky for me and my family, we have the BEST team. Ohana. We are ONE unit, all moving forward together. Here's the last look at our year in snapshots, hope you enjoy the show
As I mentioned in the past, I'm no celeb hound, but we get our share passing through and hanging out. This year was no exception



Then acting mayor, Kirk Caldwell came on down and hung out with us. Even brought us lunch. While I waited for the "pitch", there was none. I respect that a lot. Just building relationships. Even came back to visit after losing the race to Carlisle. Class act.



Oh mu goodness, remember Tiger Beat magazine back in the 70's? This guy was a regular on the cover and heart throb for many a girl and guitar God for many a shredder. The one, the only Peter Frampton. (now a KoAloha player)



E komo mai new KoAloha artist, Natalie Ai Kamauu, pictured with guitarist/husband Iolani. Wonderful voice, beautiful people.



Not to be left out, more KoAloha artists, Kupauoa (Kellen & Lihau Paik) and Nat's cousin, Napua Makua. Here's a totally awesome impromptu performance that we even got mom to dance to. Good stuff. Love my job



"Wastin' awaaay in Margeritaville...." huh, Oh yeah! the ever beachboy coolest brother on Earth, the legendary Jimmy Buffet. Gave my 'ole buddy Tom Noble in Huntington Beach a call and let him talk to Jimmy. Thought it was a prank, but ended up making my dear friend's day as a faithful Parrothead.



Sony Music's Rob Wiesenthal in the house with his lovely friend and as a newly christened KoAloha ukulele fan. Come to find out, he's an ukulele buff......not a bad thing at all......



We got the man, oh the ladies go wild! The YouTube sensation, Gabe Bondoc in the house and KoAloha sponsored artist. The guy is amazing and a wonderful person to boot. Looking forward to great things together.



And we can't forget our superstar in the making, Ryan Imamura of Guam. Fellow Che'lu with our Brian. This young man is simply amazing and NOT a clone of anyone. Yet, he is interesting and appealing. His strong family background is a definite bonus and we'll be promotional touring with him shortly. Keep an eye open for his first cd coming soon.



Also reconnected with an old friend, Gensen Rabacal. He won the Hawaii Stars competition for people with special abilities. Despite being sight impaired, Gensen hears and plays with the heart, opening the imagination far beyond what the eyes can see. Love this guy
Of course we had events. Had one or two just about every month of this year. Hard work, but good stuff. Here's more



Pops and crew got to open the Pan Pacific Festivals this year, performing "Nandemo Dekiru/You Can Do It If You Try", our song for Japan. We still have a free download available on our website.



Had another great year as a board member of Hawaii Youth Symphony. Servicing all of Hawaii, the organization brings top notch music into the lives of youth. Here is Mike Onofretti and ED Selena Ching promo-ing on my radio show





With our dear brother Gary San Angel, we got a film into HIFF. "My KoAloha Story" screened three times, Dole Theaters, Sunset on the Beach and Hilo HIFF. Awesome experience. Kudos to Anderson Le (Toys & Joys - a giving family and company) and staff for a well organized festival.



Our Ukulele Sweetheart, Raiatea Helm debuted a line of products with Le Sportsac. The Mele series is doing well and taking Hawaii to shores here and away.



Got to experience my first Nahiwahiwa Festivals in Japan as the former Treasurer of Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts. A wonderful three day event that showcases Hula and Hawaii's top musicians.
Then on to my favorite part of what we do, our Aloha for the world around us. The life source of KoAloha.



While at Nahiwahiwa, Pali and some Hawaii musicians also got together with brother Ryoji (Aiea HS grad) of Ogo's Ono Loa Restaurant to raise some funding for the ongoing Japan relief efforts. Was a two day mini festival that attracted from all over Japan.



While there, I also visited an elementary school in Tokyo to share about Hawaii and play some music for them on my ukulele. Mahalo to Faith Suzuki for making this possible.



As a Peace Bridge board member and VP, we supported our Wolfhounds of Schofield Barracks as they hosted the orphans on Holy Family Home in Osaka for the record 54th year. This is the longest community relationship in the history of the US Army.



Our hearts melted again as we played host to the Rainbow Kids of Japan. Thanks to generous sponsors like Japan Airlines, Sony and many others, these children affected by the calamities in Japan had 2 weeks to get refreshed. None of them have a home anymore.....We did a bbq for them and they mysteriously received 20 ukulele from some company to remember their experience....(yes, the tears flowed.) One girl was overheard saying, "My dream is simply to touch a real ukulele...." Dream big young ones, because sometimes they more than come true. Did I mention I LOVE my job?



Bowled for Big Brothers Big Sisters Hawaii and took away the Team Spirit Award. Made some money for them and had a great time doing it. Had some support from our Twitter friends too



Continuing on the traditions we are establishing in Molokai and Hawaii, we built 40 ukulele with the children of Lanai. My secret ambition is to grow our company so that we can build 50% of our instruments with children all over the world. Eventually, 100%. "Lord, let me win the lottery. You know what I'll do....."



Staged a private Lu'au in Korea, but not withour visiting a local hospital to spread da Aloha.



Did a Lu'au in Thailand too, but first things first. We visited a children's hospital's cancer ward. The stories we could tell from this visit. Tear jerking and inspiring at the same time. How the heart expands if you let it. 

Thanks for sharing my year with me. Our "exploits" are not on display simply for entertainment value. We're a small company, but we Believe we're making a difference. All it takes is a spark and we hope that we can serve as that inspiration. If a little company like us can do it, so can you. All it takes is a willing heart and the actions to follow that call.
Stay tuned, more to come in the new year. Mahalo ke Akua for your many blessings. "We Will" Lord, we will.



2001 Year in Review Part 2 of 3
Alan Okami — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:02:16 +0000
OK, so after I checked "not even all" of the photos that I wanted to include on my blog, I realized that there are more than I anticipated AND even more tales to share about this past year. What a year it has been! As I always claim, we are blessed. We do our part, but the real credit goes to the One Upstairs, high in the sky. Our source and provider, the big JC. 
Now on to more of our adventures of 2011:



Kinda like a dream come true, we were able to travel and perform with the Legendary Ohta San as we supported our dealer, Ukulele Source in San Jose. We put together a concert/film screening and it was a blast.



Which allowed me to visit San Francisco for the first time in my life. I loved it! Tony C was part of this trip and he was playing "I Left My Heart in SF" the entire ride, ha ha.



Joined Melissa Chang and Russ Sumida in launching Channel808.tv. Here's one of our fun events, remembering our dear friend, CO.



As we transitioned to UPS as our preferred shipper, we got invited to join in on an exclusive cruise of the West Coast on a private catamaran. (Duran Duran's "Rio") raced through my head on this shot....



Went to Hawaii's Hamakua Coast and became investors in a koa planting project. In 20 years, my kids will still have wood. The in between might be a little more challenging.



On Molokai, we officially passed the 300 instrument mark in our yearly building project.



Became an officer of Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts and took part in my first Hoku Awards ceremony (WOW, it was awesome!)





Celebrated "My KoAloha Story" with film maker Gary San Angel and 200 something good friends out at Luana Hills. Mahalo to Garret Kamei and the staff of Willows Hawaii for all your kokua.



Hung out and helped out our friends from Langley, BC, Canada on their annual tour of Honolulu



Of course the Annual Ukulele Festival, my guys did it all this year from the games to showing our products. I'm so proud of them
There's more to come as I recap this wonderful year of friendships and doing things our special way. Stay tuned. Just cleaned up 2800 spam comments and I'm ready to post more. 
Merry Christmas everyone

Al



2011 Year in Review part 1 of 2
Alan Okami — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 02:21:25 +0000
What a year this has been! I'm exhausted, but it's been mostly good stuff. This post is more of a picture show of some of the things we did, places we went and all that feel good vibes. Thank you faithful Ka Leo readers for following me. There's even more to come in 2012!



NAMM Show with the whole crew in Anaheim



KoAloha BBQ, the official launch party for the annual Ukulele Picnic in Hawaii



One of our many trips to TV land this year, pictured with the ever lovely Olena Heu



Me Pappy getting inducted into his Alma Mater, McKinley HS Hall of Fame



Recipients of recognition in Hawaii Business' Small Biz Awards



At the Grammy's, celebrating Daniel Ho's 6th award



Hanging with Herb Ohta Jr, Walt Keale & Bryan Tolentino, shooting a film for Japan TV



Selling Hawaii with Hawaii Tourism China offices



Launching my radio show on AM 760 KGU. Lloyd Kawakami of Iolani Sportswear/Manoa DNA in the background.



Hanging with Ning Cai, aka Singapore's Magic Babe Ning and radio star, Pam Ho.



Emotional day, sending off my brothers, the Wolfhounds of Schofield Barracks.



Pakele Live, introducing "Nandemo Dekiru/You Can Do It If You Try", a free download off our site, a song for Japan.



200 ukes and counting on the island of Hawaii with Keoki Kahumoku's Center For Hawaiian Studies







First promotion in Korea with Herb Ohta Jr & Daniel Ho



Introducing Hawaii's Small Business Administration's Family Owned Business of the Year



Our new Aloha Shirt parter, Rix Island Wear
Whew! That's only half the year so far. More to come. Stay tuned as I wrap up a wonderful year to say the least.



Packing a LeSportsac for a trip on the Sea of Love
Alan Okami — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 23:21:04 +0000
Raiatea Helm, a lovely young woman with many bright days ahead. We've had the pleasure of working with her since our first meeting at the former Big Island Steak House in the Aloha Tower Marketplace. Since then, we've seen her blossom from a local, Molokai Island Girl to the sophisticated Young Woman from Molokai. She does you folks well my brothers and sisters on the friendly isle. This fall, in addition to her many travels around the world, she's become part of a very special collaboration:



With the release of her latest CD, "Sea of Love", Rai got an additional boost by partnering with a prominent handbag collection.



Here she is with the CEO of Waikiki Trader Corp, a locally owned and operated business here in Hawaii. They're the parent company of LeSportsac in Hawaii and Guam. They're also operate the David and Goliath stores, popular amongst the young crowd.



The young lady travels extensively around the world, so we were lucky enough to catch up with her as Le Sportsac hosted an exclusive launch party at their retail store in the Ala Moana Shopping Center. Here she is with Melissa Chang of HawaiiIRL for an interview.



Manager extraoridinaire, Guy Sibilla was gracious enough to let us coax her into doing something special for this interview as well. He's been the one man pwerhouse behind her marketing and appearances. Some of you may recognize his name from his former stints as a successful local attorney and photographer. A man of many talents, for sure.

 

What we were able to do, was to get her to perform a song from her CD. To get the performance, log on to HawaiiIRL and get a one song preview of Rai doing the oldies from Waikiki.



Of course behind the camera, working the production end is the tireless Russ Sumida, aka @Parkrat on Twitter.

 

I got to sneak in a pic as well. This was an awesome night, full of music, food, a Hawaiian bag line and good times. As I always say, I love my job.




Celebrating Good Times
Alan Okami — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:35:48 +0000
I remember when we first started. Times were tough coming off the Precision Plastics. Always as the brink of bankruptcy, no hope, no future in sight. Then Pops decides that we're going to make ukulele. "Great, just great...." I thought. Needless to say, it was not the easiest transition. We became ukulele makers. Only one thing stood in the way,...we didn't know how to make them. That didn't appear to bother Pops. Neither did not getting a paycheck for the first 2-1/2 years. 
Forward 16-1/2 years later, I can say that Pops made the right decision. We've been enjoying the ride and there's been no looking back. Well, maybe just a little. It's a reminder of how far we've come. The story is still unfolding, but one thing remains consistent. We can't do it without all the love and support we receive. This is a team effort. One of the celebrated moments came the past few weeks as we were fortunate enough to be featured in HIFF. It is by no means an announcement of "We Made It," but another display of the Aloha that carries us through the thick and thin.



When you see Braddah Wade and crew of KINE 105.1 FM, you know there's a party a comin'. He's a the hardest working man in radio and remains true to his local boys roots. Always good to see him.



True to form, the music follows. This is Jesse Gamiao of Kaeha, his new group. Some of you may remember Jesse from his days with The Fabulous Krush. Those heart throbs from the Waikiki Disco days. Earlier in the morning, they debuted their song, "What is Aloha" on KSSK's morning show with Perry & Price.



There was also a sighting of the ever lovely Natalie Ai Kamauu pictured with yours truly. Yes, I am proud to say that I've lost a few pounds. It's hard work, but getting in shape is a top priority for me these days. Death comes to all, but might as well try and make it less painful when it happens yeah?



So what am I talking about? HIFF of course. Can't help it, we're still in awe from such an honor. We were fortunate enough to be selected for multiple screenings. The first being Sunset on the Beach. Was such a good time and humbling to see our film on the big screen. Touching back to Precision Plastics and early KoAloha, I would have never dreamed....



I don't want to give too much away as the film still needs life after HIFF, but it was neat to see the footage taken a couple years ago. This shot is one of our favorites as we see Dustin, aka Doos, and how young he was coming in to us straight out of high school. He sent over a very touching email to me and my brother this past Christmas, saying that he came in with no direction and passion. Now he says that he's found his purpose of being and where he wants to be all the way until retirement. Wow. My tears flowed. I'm so proud of this guy and blessed to see him blossom before my eyes.



The whirlwind wasn't over yet. Got to talk story with braddah Ben Guitterez on Hawaii News Now, sharing about our next screening. Even got to meet Mazie Hirono in the waiting room along with pianist extraordinaire, Ikaika Tecson and artist Yoza. What a morning!





Then came the moment of surreality. Thursday, October 20th, 6:30 PM at the Dole Signature Theaters. "My KoAloha Story" on the big screen. Wow. Walking in and seeing all the HIFF posters and our name on the theater doorway was amazing!



We even got to play Hollywood at their step and repeat. Here we are decked out in our Rix Island Wear shirts. Yes, we support local first. Made in Hawaii is soo important folks.



We revealed our little secret after the film, extending all in attendance to join us at our afterparty at Willows restaurant. We encouraged folks to come out and share their own KoAloha stories with us in the spirit of the film. Me, my brother and Herb Ohta Jr took stage and did a few numbers for the crowd. Paul always steals my thunder when he dances....gotta think of something new....



The folks were blown away by newest supported artist, Rio Sato of Japan. This little guy has so much soul when he plays and made us all feel like putty in his hands. Good job Rio!



Rounding out the festivities was the final screening in Hilo. We sent a small team there to spice up the hype as we were the official openers for HIFF in Hilo. This was an amazing two weeks indeed.
This is not intended to be a "wear it on our sleeve" post. Not at all. We're such a small company, but we have a big message to share. For us, it's all about relationships. "KoAloha Story" and "My KoAloha Story" puts on open display of the things we hold so dear that we want to share it with the world.
For those of you that weren't able to join us, you can log on to:
KoAloha Story or imdb
On KoAlohaStory.com, you can post your own story. It's meant to live on and share with everyone how a small little company like us can play a role in people's lives, despite our limitations in size and reach. On IMDB, please post a comment and help us get the film into other film festivals. We're ready to take the Aloha show on the road and infect others with the message of hope and investment into others.
Thanks for reading and following along. More adventures to come