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Symphony, Borges
highlight Halekulani’s
New Year’s Eve

The Halekulani's dinner-dance was easily one of the best New Year's Eve parties in town and the Honolulu Symphony had plenty to do with it. The resort is a major supporter of the Symphony and the orchestra showed its appreciation by performing a variety of music, including classics, a little polka and even a bit of rock under the baton of Stuart Chafetz. The jazz-pops duo of singer-bassist Bruce Hamada and pianist Jim Howard had things in an upbeat mood earlier with their selections. To bring in the New Year and the spectacular offshore fireworks, they and drummer Sonny Froman backed up swinging singer Jimmy Borges, who had people jumping and jiving on the dance floor. Guest singer Stuart Gasston also got in his licks. Jimmy mentioned that a couple of Marines who served in Iraq were in the house, bringing much applause. Maj. Tom Prentice served in Iraq twice. He was seated with Marine Lt. Gen. Wallace Gregson and Lt. Col. Otis McGregor. Before I had the general's first name, I asked the major what it was and he replied, "I didn't know he had a first name. I thought it was Sir" ... Abe Weinstein says Jimmy, the Rich Crandall Trio and guests will perform in Hyatt's old Trappers Lounge April 1 as part of the Hawaii International Jazz Festival. Call 941-9974 for info ...

Damiani celebrates 80 years of fine jewelry

The Halekulani was the site for Damiani jewelry's 80th anniversary reception last Wednesday. Hosts were Andy Yip, Can Lee and Brenda Chung of Damiani Honolulu, along with the Italian firm's Katrina Estrin of New York. Jewelry pieces were displayed. Brad Pitt designed wedding rings with Silvia Damiani that he and Jennifer Aniston wear. They also designed Jennifer's engagement ring. Sophia Loren, Sharon Stone and Penelope Cruz are others who wear Damiani pieces ...

Toshiko Wight, golf sales manager at Turtle Bay, celebrated her birthday Sunday at a L'Uraku luncheon party thrown by her husband Rick. Toshiko, a golfer, says that her bad shoulder is still bothering her. But friends shrug and say that will not get her any more strokes ...

Indestructible Helen Altonn returned to work yesterday after recovering from her second broken hip in five years. Helen is the Star-Bulletin's senior reporter ...

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