Wood Craft Ben Wood

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Hawaii arts groups hold party at Duke’s Shangri La

Hawaii arts groups staged a major coup by getting Doris Duke's magnificent Shangri La, overlooking the ocean at Diamond Head, to hold a garden party Thursday evening. Guests were also allowed to look over some of the rooms inside the fabulous, sprawling home, with heavy Islamic influences. A huge, spectacular Baccarat crystal chandelier over a low dining table in one room was a highlight. A well-worn rug from Turkey owned by Duke's tobacco baron father, James Duke, is under the table. No stepping on that, please! It's not a magic flying carpet but if any home in Hawaii should have one, this is it. Docents provided info on the rooms and Islamic art treasures. Security personnel kept watch. The grounds on the five-acre estate are full of lush greenery. Public tours are arranged by the Academy of Arts; call 532-3853. Shangri La is well worth a visit. The arts groups involve theatrical companies, museums, Iolani Palace, Queen Emma Summer Palace, the Academy of Arts and more. Their representatives were on hand, as were hotel concierges who help arrange tours. Guests enjoyed a huge buffet from Shanghai Bistro and Hong Kong Harbor View restaurant and beverages from Southern Wine and Spirits. The Bobby Ingano Trio provided music ...

Veranda magazine's March/April issue has a four-page spread about the "Life in the Pacific of the 1700s" exhibition, written by Honolulu Academy of Arts Director Stephen Little. Stephen is curator for the exhibition, which opens Thursday. Entry to the exhibit will be free through May 14 in celebration of the Year of the Museum 2006 ...

Ernie Els breaks ground Monday at Ewa Beach

Ernie Els breaks ground Monday at Ewa Beach for his first signature golf course in Hawaii. The Hoakalei Golf Course and Country Club is part of a new development by Haseko ... Bally opened its spacious new store at Ala Moana Center Thursday. Models wore the firm's new clothing line as well as shoes for which the company is known. Ginniberries catered ... D&D Furniture donated $4,000 worth of ergonomic office furniture to the Arc in Hawaii on Valentine's Day. The nonprofit Arc provides adult day health programs and residential services to adults with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities ...