The Kona Times

U Top It Last Day 1-22-12

2012-01-22T13:34:00.001-08:00

Chef Curtis and his family at U Top It breakfast and lunch cafe will close its doors after today. A long-time sentimental favorite among the people-in-the-know behind Lava Java in the Alii Sunset Plaza in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, was noted for its omelets and Pan Crepes.
There was some hoping that they will find another location to put the painted mural in and to continue operation. We shall see.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Akaka Falls

2012-01-09T09:39:00.000-08:00

I took a trip over to the other side of the Island of Hawai'i to enjoy the natural beauty of Akaka Falls and its surrounding area. It's been a while since I've been there, so I was surprised to find a $5.00 parking fee. But if it helps pay for an attendant to oversee the parking area, its worth it.
Akaka Falls is about 10 miles north of the town of Hilo.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Christmas Hula at the Hulihe'e Palace

2011-12-19T10:48:00.000-08:00

Just had the annual Christmas Hula and concert at the Hulihe'e Palace featurung the Halau Hula Napua U'i O Hawai'i under the direction of Etua Lopes along with the Merrie Monarchs singing group.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Signs of Christmas in Kona, Hawaii

2011-12-17T13:45:00.000-08:00

Poinsettias along the road to Holualoa.

John and Hope Keawe performed at the Kona Hotel.

The decorated Christmas trees are up at the Mauna Lani Resort for all to see.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Waimea Creek Appears

2011-12-17T13:23:00.000-08:00

Heading north in Kohala I came across this run-off stream coming from Waimea after the heavy rains on the north east side of the island.

(photo by Randy Magnus)

Hannan's Barber Shop

2011-12-12T21:51:00.000-08:00

Hannan's Barber Shop in the upper part of the Kona Old Industrial Area is now being operated by three girls, Sue Tan from Hong Kong, Gaou from Thailand, and the other one wasn't present when I got my haircut.
The guys are gone, so no more old fashion shaves. Just the girls giving $15 haircuts, plus tip.
Check them out.

Lunch in Kailua Village, Hawai'i

2011-12-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Pho (Vietnamese soup) at Ba-Le, next to KTA on Palani Rd. They have a $5 mini portion menu that's great.

Chicken salad with broccoli, cucumbers, walnuts, grapes, raisins, and tomato at Kimagure Deli in the Kona Marketplace off of Ali'i Drive for $6.00 plus tip. An older Japanese couple run it, and service can be slow if crowded.

The Tostada Ceviche at Tacos El Unico Mexican Food is a $3 standby, also in the Kona Marketplace on Ali'i Drive. Wednesdays is $1.50 tacos.

A Basil Roll at Taeng-On Kona Thai food in the Kona Inn Marketplace on Ali'i Dr. Delicious.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

King David Kalakaua Hula Portraits

2011-11-21T19:15:00.000-08:00

Kumu Keala Ching along with Ka Pa Hula Na Wai Iwi Ola put on E Mau Ana Ka Hula (The Hula is Perpetuated), a tribute to King David Kalakaua at the Keauhou Beach Resort. The best one yet.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Miss Kona Coffee Pageant 2011

2011-11-14T08:51:00.000-08:00

Another exciting Miss Kona Coffee took place at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort in Keauhou-Kona, Hawaii.

photos by Randy Magnus

Halloween at Huggo's 2011

2011-11-01T15:31:00.000-07:00

One of the happening places for Halloween in Kona, Hawaii was the costume contest at Huggo's On The Rocks.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Halloween Costumes at Keauhou Shopping Center 2011

2011-10-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

Some of the Halloween costumes we found in Keauhou this year.

photo by Randy Magnus

Past Halloween in Kona, Hawaii

2011-10-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

Suzanne and the gang.

Noe Noe with lots of feathers.

At Huggo's On The Rocks in 2008.

Heidi as a hula lamp.

Molly as a carton of Lucky Strike.

The Smirfs.

Halloween is coming up here on the west side of the Island of Hawai'i. Here are a few shots from past Halloweens in Kailua Kona, Hawaii.

photos by Randy Magnus

Kona Ironman Highlights 2011

2011-10-14T12:20:00.000-07:00

The water patrol.

Including some famous people.

The start of the swim.

The bike.

The run.

At the finish line of the 2011 Ford Ironman.

photos by Randy Magnus

Ironman Parade of Nations 2011

2011-10-14T12:12:00.001-07:00

Some of the Ironman race announcers.

One of the Japanese mascots.

Off The Grid Productions dance troupe.

The Aussies were in town.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Keiki Ironman Swim and Run 2011

2011-10-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Right before the Ironman parade is the Keiki Ironman Little Swim and Run.
Future participants.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

The Underpants Run 2011

2011-10-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

It was the 14th annual Underpants Run in Kailua Village here in Hawaii. So many people, creating gridlock, becoming a block party in the center of Kailua-Kona.

photos by Randy Magnus

Malcolm - The Net Keeper

2011-09-27T15:03:00.000-07:00

One morning we found the volleyball net at Magic Sands Beach had been cut-up.
So this regular, Malcolm Oakley, pulled everyone's money together, and using mostly his own dough, went out and bought a new volleyball net for Magic Sands here in Kailua Kona, Hawaii.

photo by Randy Magnus

Hula At Hulihe'e Palace 9-2011

2011-09-22T21:24:00.000-07:00

Kumu Hula Etua Lopes and Halau Hula Pua U'i O Hawai'i performed along with the West Hawai'i County Band with the Merrie Monarchs at Hulihe'e Palace in Kailua Kona, Hawaii.

photos by Randy Magnus.

Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Race 2011

2011-09-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

Koa wood and fiberglass outrigger canoes head out to the start of the biggest long distance canoe race in the world from Kailua Bay down to the Place of Refuge. There were 150 entries or so each way this year with the wahines going down and the kane coming back up.

photos by Randy Magnus

Kanaka Kava Bar Celebrates their 10th Anniversary

2011-09-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

Zack and Johanna celebrated the 10th anniversay of the Kanaka Kava Bar in the Coconut Grove on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. There was live music featuring Sahra Indio, Maka, and many others along with Hawaiian food and lots of kava. The extended staff and longtime supporters were present.

photos by Randy Magnus

Salsa Dancing at The Remixx in Kona, HI

2011-09-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

You can dance Salsa on Thursday evenings at The Remixx in the King Kamehameha Shopping Mall in Kailua Village on The Big Island of Hawaii. You will find DJ Rick spinning tunes from his massive private collection, starting around 9pm. Nice light show too.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Doing the Tango at The Remixx in Kailua Village

2011-09-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Tango dancing is available at The Remixx in the King Kamehameha Shopping Mall, right above the King Kamehameha Kailua Bay Hotel in Kailua Kona, Hawaii on Wednesdays.
Classes began at 7:30pm and general Tango dancing follows.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Mai Tai Festival at The Royal Kona Resort

2011-08-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

A pool party with Henry Kapono with added guest Mic Fleetwood.

Beachbum Berry was one of the judges for the Best Mai Tai at the 3nd annual Don The Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival.

Kaleiula showing off their tiki mug collection which was acquired for the event.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Mango Festival in Hawaii

2011-07-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Mango Festival will be held on July 30th from 10am to 4:30pm at the Keauhou Beach Resort in Keauhou-Kona, Hawaii. Mango variety tasting, food samples, music, art, and more.

photo of Joy by Randy Magnus.
(taken especially for the Mango Festival)

Keei Buddhist Church Bon Dance 2011

2011-07-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

The place was opened up for this annual Bon Dance along Middle Keei Road in Captain Cook. The Kona Hongwanji Mission Taiko Drummers provided the music and drumming as people danced around the tree.

photos by Randy Magnus

Kaiso Yakitori Shop in Kailua Kona, HI

2011-07-16T18:10:00.000-07:00

Stopped by Kaiso, the Japanese Yakitori Restaurant that's at Waterfront Row for some pork belly yakitori. It was good, next time I'm trying the grilled checken with green onion yakitori.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Kumu Charles Ka'upu Passes Away

2011-07-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

Kumu Hula and Master Hawaiian Chanter Charles K Ka'upu Jr passed away last night who unexpectedly died early this morning, shortly after returning from Japan and Okinawa.
I would read about his journeys to the Mainland, Japan, and Oahu on Facebook. He was always traveling, sharing his Aloha to the world that he touched.
Every time I saw Charles I would be greeted with a smile and a warm hug.
Charles was a very special spirit in the world of Hawaiian culture.
He will be missed.

(photos by Randy Magnus.)

Daifukuji Soto Mission Bon Dance 2011

2011-07-11T09:49:00.000-07:00

Rev. Jiko Nakade was leading the opening dance at this year's Obon Festival at the Daifukuji Temple on Saturday evening. The Taiko Drummers were in excellent form as it being their final performance before leaving for California and performing there. Many of the participants wore ethnic kimonos and hapi coats, adding to the wonderful ambiance of the evening.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

4th of July in Kailua Kona, Hawaii 2011

2011-07-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

The annual 4th of July Parade in Kailua Village was full of flag waving, military, politicians, and dogs. (Most of which you can see on the dvd.)

photos by Randy Magnus

UCC Kona Marathon 2011

2011-06-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

The 2011 UCC Kunitake Farms Kona Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5K Family Fun Runs took place last weekend. 28 year old Justin Gillette from Indiana won for the 4th straight time, 20 minutes ahead second place. Local Bree Wee won the Half Marathon for the women (only one guy beat her.) Co-founder Jon Kunitake ran the full marathon.

photos by Randy Magnus.

Upcoming Bon Dances in Kona, Hawaii

2011-06-24T15:05:00.001-07:00

Upcoming Bon Dances schedule:

July 9 - Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission
July 16 - Keei Buddhist Church
July 23 - Kona Hongwanji Mission

(photos of the season opener
at Keauhou Shopping Center by Randy Magnus)

Habaneros Is Back in Business in Keauhou, HI

2011-06-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

Habaneros Mexican Restaurant in Keauhou Shopping Center has completed the remodel and cleaning job. Looks good. The salsa bar is gone, ask for the condiments when you order. I had the chicken tostada.

photos by Randy Magnus

Tsunami Repairs Still Underway in Kailua Kona, HI

2011-06-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

My favorite trees and vines on Ali'i Drive are in bloom. Love the color combination.

This house was picked up by the tsunami and put down off its foundation.

King Kamehameha Kailua Beach Hotel is replacing the palm trees and grass after the salt water killed the plants.

Its been 3 months after the tsunami from the Japan earthquake, and places is still recovering. (Have you noticed the sidewalk along the rock wall across from Fish Hoppers is still in need of replacement.)

photos by Randy Magnus

King Kamehameha Day Parade 2011

2011-06-13T14:29:00.000-07:00

Horses, a little hula, and the Tongans made up this year's King Kamehameha Day Parade in Kailua Kona, Hawaii this year.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Konawaena High School Graduation 2011

2011-05-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Wildcat mascot has returned to Konawaena High School, making an appearance at the graduation, as did cool guys and after the ceremony; plenty flower and candy leis for the graduates.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hula at Keauhou Beach Resort on Sundays

2011-05-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

On Sunday's starting around 4:30pm you can catch the hula halau Na Wai Iwi Ola under the direction of Kumu Hula Keala Ching performing at the Verandah Bar in the Keauhou Beach Resort in Keauhou, Hawaii.
On this Sunday, the keiki were dancing for the older member's enjoyment.

photos by Randy Magnus

Hula At Hulihe'e Palace 5-2011

2011-05-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

It was a band concert this month, with a little hula from the Keiki in the middle of the program.

photos by Randy Magnus

Daifukuji Soto Mission Bazaar 2011

2011-05-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

The Daifukuji Soto Mission held their annual building maintenance repair fund bazaar, with Walter hosting the event.
And there was the famous Daifukuji Taiko Drumming, along with used items for sale, plants, and even massages were offered.
Good to see old friends.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Drysdale 2 Closes in Keauhou-Kona, Hawaii

2011-05-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

On May 11, 2011, the sports bar Drysdale 2 in the Keauhou Shopping Center, served its last meal. I remember Uncle George Na'ope taking me there to have a drink and to show me the picture of himself on the wall.

Noted for its burgers and deep fried food, this place outlasted Drysdale 1 in Kailua Village, due to the lasting power of the baseball player, Don Drysdale's ex-wife for staying in the community after the divorce.
It looked like its last day will go down as one of its busiest.
(I had a salad with grilled Cajun chicken.)

(photos by Randy Magnus)

May Day at Honaunau School 2011

2011-05-09T10:30:00.000-07:00

May Day returned to Saturday morning at Honaunau School in Captain Cook. After years of performing mainly for each other on a Friday morning, the event returned to Saturday morning so the entire community could enjoy the pageantry.

photos by Randy Magnus

Hilo Farmers Market in Hilo, Hawaii

2011-04-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

Wednesday is the busy day for the Hilo Farmers Market, with lots of produce and lots of customers walking through.

photos by Randy Magnus

Saddle Road on the Island of Hawaii

2011-04-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

Took a trip over Saddle Road on the way to Hilo to check out the hula vibes for the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Here's a few shots along the way.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Earth Day 2011 in Keauhou-Kona, HI

2011-04-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

Deborah dressed for the occasion to get the message across of 'take care of nature, of Mother Earth.'

Hapa was the headliner, playing their jazzy slack key guitar playing and with thoughts going out to the people of Japan.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hula At Hulihe'e Palace 4-2011

2011-04-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

The Daughters of Hawaii presents every month at the Hulihe'e Palace in Kailua Village a hula performance by Halau Hula Na Pua U'I O Hawai'i under the direction of Kumu Hula Etua Lopes.
Here Namaka is showing her hula moves during last Sunday's performance.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

From the Archives: Uncle George Na'ope Does Hula

2011-04-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dug this out of the Art TV Hawaii archives, its a rare clip of Uncle Rae Fonseca with Merrie Monarch Hula Festival co-founder Uncle George Naope dancing hula as part of Etua Lopes 50th birthday party in 2004.
video by Randy Magnus.

Twilight in Kailua Kona, Hawaii

2011-04-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes twilight is the best time in Kailua Village.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

New West Hawaii County Offices Open House

2011-04-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

The new West Hawai'i Civic Center is located on Ane Keohokalole Hwy.

The West Hawaii chambers for the County Council.

The Mayor's West Hawaii office.

Former Mayor Harry Kim made a rare appearance, having the projected started during his administration.

Kumu Keala Ching with Ka Pa Hula Na Wai Iwi Ola gave the blessing.

County of the Island of Hawaii Mayor Billy Kenoi at the new West Hawaii Civic Center.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Sahra Indio at Kanaka Bar

2011-04-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

video by Randy Magnus

The Mural of Hunu Turtle

2011-04-06T12:12:00.000-07:00

A sunny day with tropical breezes in Kailua kona, Hawaii.

(photo by Randy Magnus)

Kona Inn Shopping Center Is Open

2011-04-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

PonchoMan is hanging in Just Ukes, selling good quality ukuleles.

Pook is happy in her Khanittha Jewelry Shop with her Kailua Bay view.

After the tsunami the Kona Inn Shopping had to wait for some electrical parts to arrive and get installed. The grass area is roped off and brown, but the green is coming back.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

People Enjoying the Kona Beaches

2011-03-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Magic Sands with waterdrops. (Just got out from boogie boarding.)

Ku'a Bay seems to have a lot of tourists getting sunburnt.

Kahalu'u Beach Park is rather crowded on Wednesdays when the cruise ship is in town.
It seems like the Kona beaches are getting full of people, many of them tourists who are here for Spring Break and the warm sunshine. It's Hawaii, what can I say.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Kahalu'u Beach

2011-03-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Trying out a new camera in its special effects modes. Diarama on top, pinhole in the middle, and straight on the bottom.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Life Slowly Resumes at Hulihee Palace in Kona, Hawaii

2011-03-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

It looks like things are getting back to normal after the tsunami as Kumu Etua Lopes conducts hula lessons at Hulihee Palace in Kailua Village. The staff of Hulihee Palace are still cleaning up after the disaster.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Clean-up Underway in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii After Tsunami

2011-03-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Ali'i Drive near the Kailua Pier is getting some new sidewalk and pavement being done by the County.

The Kohala Center rallied its volunteers in cleaning up Kahalu'u Beach Park, including clearing out the pond.

And Kumu Etua Lopes noticed that the tsunami cleared out the sand at Keauhou Bay, exposing a canoe boat ramp the has been covered for years.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Tsunami Waves in Kona, HI 3-11-2011

2011-03-11T20:51:00.000-08:00

Kahalu'u Beach parking lot by Toby Hoogs.

Ali'i Drive in Kailua Village in front of the Fish Hopper by Chuck Soell.

A few of the images and videos from the tsunami on March 11, 2011 hitting Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Painter of Hawaiian History Passes Away

2011-03-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

Got word that renowned painter of Hawaiian History Herb Kane passed away on March 8, 2011 at the age of 83.
Herb Kane was considered a Hawaiian Living Legend for depicting in paintings, prints, and in books the history of Hawai'i.
Pictured here is the last picture he sent out to his email friends and fans, an image of Kamehameha invading Oahu in 1795.
In 2009 the Mayor of Hawaii Billy Kenoi declared it Herb Kane Day, and awarded the honor to him at a Kohala Center function.
Herb enjoyed The Kona Times, in December 2010 saying "Mahalo, Randy,
I enjoy Kona Times — seeing what I've missed by being shut up in my studio."

You can see a 40 print collection of his work currently up in the lobby of the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel in Kailua Village. See more of his art at his blog by clicking here. Check it out.
He will be missed.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Sahra Indio Live at Kanaka Kava Bar 2-19-11

2011-02-21T11:57:00.000-08:00

The amazingly talented reggae artist Sahra Indio was live at the Kanaka Kava Bar at Coconut Grove in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii along with Tuff Lion, who was celebrating his birthday last Saturday.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Searching For Buddha in Hawaii

2011-02-16T20:44:00.000-08:00

Two of the Buddha statues that can be seen in the Daifukuji Soto Mission in Honalo, Hawai'i, under the direction of Rev. Jiko Nakade.
The standing Buddha is Kannon Bodhisattva of "Great Compassion" was carved in Japan by master sculptor Sosaku Miki and enshrined in 1937.
The seated one is Shakyamuni Buddha, the "Historical Buddha" and was enshrined in 1921.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

The Joy of Hula and Her Hula Outfits

2011-02-15T06:09:00.000-08:00

Joy in some of her various outfits during her Monday evening hula show at the Kona Hawaiian Village on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

The Winter Coastline of Kona, Hawaii

2011-02-11T15:03:00.000-08:00

The algae is growing on the rocks that were covered over with sand.
Still sunny, still warm. Welcome to Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hilda Keanaaina Passes Away

2011-01-30T09:37:00.000-08:00

"Saying goodbye is never easy! My Granny had the most amazing life....RiP Hilda Keanaaina. We will miss you!!!"
I knew Hilda. She was a hula friend of Uncle George Na'ope, and she told me once that her best hula student was Kumu Jay Jay.
Hilda didn't get out that much, but it was always such a pleasure to see her show up at hula performances.
I'll miss her...

(photo of Kumu Hula Hilda Keanaaina with Halau Kukuimalamamala o Kona.
She taught their hula instructor and founder Kumu Jay Jay Akiona.)

photo by Randy Magnus
opening text from her granddaughter

Talking Dolphins Recording Studio

2011-01-29T12:38:00.000-08:00

I stopped by to see Jay at Talking Dolphins Recording Studio, and he is having a financial struggle.
So if any of you have any out-standing bills the you owe him, or if you have borrowed equipment and brought it back broken - stop by and give him some money. When I saw Jay was trying to repair some tweeter horns for his field PA system that came back blown out. And he mentioned that people owe him thousands of dollars in fees for use of the recording studio.
Talking Dolphins Recording Studio is a professional recording studio with top notch equipment. So if you have a song to record, book the studio, get it recorded, and remember to pay for the studio time. Help Jay out.

(photo by Randy Magnus)

Keep Kona Country

2011-01-27T17:53:00.000-08:00

The landscape of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii is still the same, but always changing. The King Kamehameha Beach Hotel is done with its remodel, the Donkey Mill mural on Palani is still there, and there are still horses along the countrysides.
(But I have not seen the wild goats at the golf course lately.)

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Viva Senor Santo Nino Celebration in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

2011-01-16T11:24:00.000-08:00

It was the 14th Annual Fiesta Celebration by the Santo Nino Group of Kona.

There was dancing and food and a Catholic service, and a procession where they parade around with their Senor Santo Nino statues.

This is a Filipino celebration honoring the coming of the baby Jesus figure which appeared on the Philippine Islands in April 28, 1565. There have been several miracles that are related to the power of Santo Nina.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Images of Captain Cook, Hawaii

2011-01-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple shots I took while driving in the Capt. Cook area - a lava beach around Two Step across from the Place of Refuge, and a Fruit Stand down Middle Keei Road.
The Island Life on The Big Island of Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

A Little Snow in Hawaii for The New Year

2011-01-14T10:42:00.001-08:00

The recent storms that have passed through the Hawaiian Islands has left some snow on the top of Mauna Kea.

Magic Sands in Now Magic Rock

2011-01-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

Magic Sands Beach in Kailua Kona is now Magic Rock due to the big crashing Winter waves coming in and washing the sand into the water.
We'll have to wait for the gentle rolling Spring waves to wash the sand back ashore.

This also brings out the treasure hunters, looking in the cracks between the boulders for jewelry that fell off while people were playing in the water during the year.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Fish For A New Year

2011-01-02T11:35:00.000-08:00

A yearly custom for me is to be able to taste Don's and his buddies fish dishes on New Year's Day.
It brings good luck to Kona, Hawaii for the year.
Happy New Year.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Art TV Hawai'i Changes Time

2010-12-29T11:02:00.001-08:00

A new time for watching Art TV Hawaii, now at 8:30pm on the Island of Hawai'i cable CH 54. Tune in for art, culture, and community.

Kona Theatre For Sale

2010-12-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

It looks like Kona Joe of Kona Joe's Kona Coffee of Hawaii is trying to sell the Kona Theater that's across from Choice Mart in Captain Cook.

A fixer upper.......

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Merry Christmas from The Kupunas of Kona, HI

2010-12-20T13:33:00.000-08:00

I was asked to attend this luncheon at the Ocean Restaurant with the Ladies of Kona and their friends. We ate and sang Christmas chorales.
Merry Christmas from the Kupunas of Kona, Hawaii.

(photo by Randy Magnus)

Holiday Celebration in Kailua Kona, Hawaii

2010-12-15T10:13:00.000-08:00

A fun time was had by all of those who attended the Christmas Hula performance by Halau Hula Napua U'i O Hawai'i under the direction of Etua Lopes and backed up by the Merrie Monarchs at Hulihe'e Palace in Kailua Village.
That was followed by a concert by Amy Hanaiali'i. An excellent holiday celebration for the Kona area of the Island of Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hawaii Culture Downsized at Keauhou Beach Resort

2010-12-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

Hawaiian Cultural Appreciation at the Keauhou Beach Resort comes and goes. Kumu Keala Ching has announced that he is moving on ......

"It is what it is! As of December 3, our cultural department at the Keauhou Beach Resort will be downsized. I am leaving the resort as the Cultural Director. It has been a blessing. I will be focusing on our non-profit educational foundation as a new beginning. Go to www.nawaiiwiola.org for future information."

Keala Ching

A Day in Hilo, Hawaii

2010-12-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Spent a day going over to the other side of the island, to Hilo, to relax in a different atmosphere. The rain was over for the day, big puffy clouds, blue skies, lush greenery.... Started at the Farmer's Market and downtown. Then the afternoon at the zoo just outside of Hilo, and the early evening at the UH Hilo library and student center.
We took the Saddle Road, which has been repaved for much of the stretch.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hawaiian Landscapes

2010-11-29T05:19:00.001-08:00

Just north of the harbor.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Ultra Man 2010 in Kona, Hawaii

2010-11-29T05:04:00.000-08:00

In three days they swim 6.2 miles, 261.4 bike race, and 52.4 mile run.

The winner this year was Mike LeRoux with Jonas Colting 2nd, Slater Fletcher 3rd.

The top four women all beat the previous women's record for the event with Amber Monforte 1st, Hillary Biscay 2nd, Shanna Armstrong 3rd, and Kathy Winkler 4th.
Three days of enduring fun, twice the distance of Ironman, ending at the Kona's Old Airport.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

E Mau Ana Ka Hula (The Hula is Perpetuated)

2010-11-22T17:33:00.000-08:00

Kumu Hula Keala Ching put on his yearly day-long hula festival at the Keauhou Beach Resort on November 20, 2010. It is a tribute to King David Kalakaua, to make sure that "The Hula is Perpetuated." Here are a couple portraits of some of the performers and Kumu Keala Ching.

Next year this free event will be on November 19, 2011 at the Keauhou Beach Resort in Kona, HI.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hula Over The Weekend in Kona, Hawaii

2010-11-21T17:37:00.000-08:00

Three videos of recent performances in the Kona area.

videos by Randy Magnus

Empty Houses in Kaluia-Kona, Hawaii

2010-11-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

There are a few empty houses in my neighborhood here in Kona, Hawaii. A sign of the times.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Miss Kona Coffee Pageant 2011

2010-11-14T13:58:00.000-08:00

The Basque Girls (Grace, Priscilla, and Ruby, and others) put on a fine Miss Kona Coffee Pageant this year at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort.
The winner of Miss Kona Coffee for 2011 is Lacy Deniz and Miss Aloha Hawaii 2011 is Tatiana Boteliho.
Freddy and his daughter were the MC's for the event.

(photographs by Randy Magnus)

More People At Magic Sands Beach

2010-11-03T12:03:00.001-07:00

Warm days, warm water, got sand, and some waves. It's a good time to enjoy Magic Sands Beach before the winter waves come and wash the sand back into the water.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Halloween in Kona, Hawaii 2010

2010-11-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

Kailua Village on the Big Island of Hawaii was hopping on Halloween night with costume contests at Huggos On The Rocks, Oceans Sports Bar, Lulu's, and Rosa's Cantina.
There was plenty of unique and interesting costumes, and everyone had a good time as the occasional misty rain gently fell.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Some of the Best Halloween Costumes in Keauhou 2010

2010-10-31T11:39:00.001-07:00

The crowds at the Keauhou Shopping Center's "Return of Thriller" Halloween Block Party were colorful, but not as big as expected. I think it was due to having only off site parking, which made people park their cars along the street and in the adjourning neighborhood. If people did not find a parking spot, they drove on.
The Haunted House had a line all across the parking lot and was fun to go into with my former assistant and her lovely daughter (who told me to take the photo again because she blinked behind those dark glasses.) The music was all bass and vocals. (I couldn't hear the keyboards or guitars at all.)

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Its All About The Water

2010-10-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Here in Kona Hawaii its all about the water. Here we have shots of Magic Sands and Kahalu'u Beach.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

KONA FM-92 Is Off The Air

2010-10-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

Listeners tuning in Tuesday morning (October 5th) to KHBC-FM, Kona-FM and KIPA-AM hoping to hear longtime radio personality Mynah Bird instead got what radio people call "going dark" -- no signal at all.

"We're hoping it's a temporary situation while we try to regroup and refocus our efforts on going back on the air, perhaps looking at new formats," Parker (the owner and general manager) said Tuesday. "The economy is tough right now, and we've fallen victim to that."

Seven employees were laid off by the stations, which broadcast an eclectic mix of music in Hilo at 92.7 FM and 1060 AM, and in Kona on 92.1 FM. In addition to Mynah Bird -- whose real name is Mel Medeiros -- and Randy Parker, those pink-slipped include Kona personality Tommy Kahikina Ching, aka the "Polynesian Pirate," and Brad "B. Free" Freeman, the station's program director and an on-air personality.

West Hawaii Today

Ironman Water Patrol 2010

2010-10-09T14:18:00.001-07:00

The Ford Ironman Water Patrol was put together by Mike McMichael of Pacific Vibrations, full of qualified water people.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Ford Ironman Underpants Run 2010

2010-10-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

More people than ever participated in this year's Underpants Run at the Ford Ironman 2010 in Kailua Kona Village on the Big Island of Hawaii. There was so many that the exercises had to began on the pier before all of the runners got there. It was a big slow-moving boat.
The outfits were great, the event was great, and that the money goes to The Big Island Special Olympics made it even better. The 13th Annual Underpants Run is in the books.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Hawaii Kupuna Hula Festival 2010

2010-09-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

The Hawaii Kupuna Hula Festival was great fun for all who attended. Aunty Bernie was there, also John Keawe, Tony's group from Japan, and many others were present at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Queen Lili'uokalani Outrigger Canoe Race 2010

2010-09-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

The 39th annual canoe race took off on Labor Day Weekend with 126 canoes or so.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Country Livin'

2010-08-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

I went to the Keauhou Beach Resort Verandah Bar on a Friday night to see Bulla, who is no longer performing there. But in his place is a new group, Country Livin', featuring Jamieson Wong, Gene Akamu, and Greg "Toy" Wongyuen. Some great music, and a fun time. Check it out.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Kona Hongwanji Bon Dance 2010

2010-07-25T12:21:00.000-07:00

The Kona Hongwanji Bon Dance this year was blessed with no serious rain, just an occasional mist.
The two local taiko drummers were present, pounding out the rhythms of the songs for the kimono-clad dancers, as we reminisced about the bon dances of the past.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Keei Buddhist Church Bon Dance 2010

2010-07-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

Everyone who attended the Middle Keei Rd. Obon Festival last weekend have a fun time dancing around the tree, listening to the taiko drummers from the Hongwanji temple, and eating Obon food.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

TV Star at Teshima's

2010-07-21T22:42:00.000-07:00

She said that she was on "Da Bruddahs" on OC16.

(photo by Randy Magnus)

Kumu Tis'alona Kalili on Her 60th Birthday

2010-07-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

Kumu Tis`a (who studied under Uncle George Na'ope) celebrated her 60th birthday with her halau Kahula O Ka Moena Pakipika from Napoopoo at the Veranda Bar in the Keauhou Beach Resort.
She got up on stage and performed an exciting set of traditional Hawaiian songs with her halau dancing the evening away. It was a delightful night of song, dance, food, and drink.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission Bon Dance 2010

2010-07-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

It was an evening of chanting to acknowledge the ones who have passed on, to dance, to hear and see the taiko drums, to wear kimonos, to eat the food. Its was a fun cultural event last night at the Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission grounds. A great time was had by all.

More images can be seen on Facebook.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Kona Marathon 2010 Portraits

2010-06-28T09:03:00.000-07:00

Jim Lovell, Jon Kunitake, the staff and all of the volunteers put on another successful UCC Coffee / Kunitake Farms 17th Annual Kona Marathon as 1,400 participates ran and walked the course.
The winners included the Gillette family, with Justin winning the men's marathon for the third straight time, while his wife, Melissa, won the female division of the 26-plus mile race.

Miss Kona Coffee with Jon Kunitake and winners Justin and Melissa Gillette.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Sailing Vessels Off the Coast of Kona, Hawai'i

2010-06-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

A couple of the sailing vessels that have been hanging out of the coast of Kailua Kona, Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Horses Show Up in the Villages of Kona, HI

2010-06-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

Some of the many horses that took over the King Kamehameha Day Parade in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

A couple little horses that show up in Holualoa Village on special events. They are associated with the early days of the Kona Coffee industry in the region.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

King Kamehameha Day in Kailua Kona, Hawaii 2010

2010-06-13T17:24:00.000-07:00

Susan Huihui-Graffe was representing the Island of Lanai on the horse, the Kona Community Hospital was present for this Kailua Village parade on King Kamehameha Day.
Kumu Aloha Victor's Halau Kalaakeakauikawekiu had a multi-tiered hula float that was highly decorated with designer-created flowers and allowed each hula group to have their own space on the flatbed.
And the horses had their own elaborate leis.

Only in Hawaii.

(photos by Randy Magnus)

Celebrating King Kamehameha Day in Kohala, Hawaii

2010-06-12T05:16:00.000-07:00

The traditional lei draping ceremony at the King Kamehameha 1 statue in his birthplace of North Kohala in Kapaau on the Island of Hawai'i takes place every year on his birthday of June 11th.
Kumu Suse Soarse Sr. was presiding over the event.

(photos by Randy Magnus)