Wood Craft Ben Wood

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Wong's 'Back to the Roots' party helps Plantation Village

ALAN WONG'Swas packed with 200 people Sunday for "Back to the Roots," a benefit for Hawaii's Plantation Village in Waipahu. Tickets were $125. Foods and recipes from the multi-racial people who worked on the plantations were given Chef Alan's million-dollar culinary touch. Project managerLeigh Itosaid it took months of planning to do the party. Alan researched authentic ethnic dishes that inspired his menu. Twenty-four dishes and five desserts were presented at the stand-up affair. "It's wonderful to have the support," a happy Alan said. "I had a great time preparing the menu about where we came from, what we ate and where we are today." Guests were happy. "What a treat," said KITV'sGary Sprinkle as his wife, KITV'sPamela Young of "Mixed Plate," interviewed Alan.Danny Akaka, Sen.Daniel Akaka's son, gave the blessing. Fine Hawaiian music was performed bySam Kaina, Mark Tang andHelene Woodward. Guests received numbered medals crafted byTeddy Yee. Those with lucky numbers won prizes ...

THE FRENCH 75, with special ingredients added to gin and champagne and served during the cocktail hour, was a popular drink Friday for guests at the Halekulani's first spirited dinner. The classy cocktails were by World Class BartenderDale DeGroff. His yuzu vodka gimlet, rimmed with red Hawaiian salt, was also a favorite. Three other classics by the mixologist were served with dining courses that Executive ChefDarryl Fujitacrafted to go well with the spirits ...

Abigail Kawananakoa marks 80th birthday

ABIGAIL KAWANANAKOAcelebrated her 80th birthday April 22 at Lanikuhonua with about 300 people. On April 24, she was honored by 24 state senators, led by Sen.Clayton Hee, in the Senate chambers. The descendant of Hawaiian royalty was recognized for her work restoring Iolani Palace and for her efforts to preserve Hawaiian culture. She was president of Friends of Iolani Palace from 1971 to 1998 and was a key figure in guiding the palace restoration to its completion. At her birthday party,Mahi Beamer andKimo Alama Keaulana and hisLei Hulu dancers entertained. Eight bagpipers piped their way into the party in honor of her Scottish ancestor,James Campbell ...