TOPS IN HIS PROFESSION: Marsha Wienert, left, represented Gov. Lingle and Lt. Gov. Aiona, and state Sen. Lorraine Inouye represented the Senate, in welcoming Commodore R.W. Warwick and the RMS Queen Mary 2 to Honolulu Wednesday at an intimate reception aboard the liner. Warwick is the master of the largest ocean liner in history; the QM2 can accommodate more than 2,700 passengers. Bruce Krumrine, second from left, and Dean Brown, right, attended on behalf of the Cunard Line; Rod Haraga brought aloha from the state Department of Transportation.

STARR'S THE STAR OF THE STAR: A romantic set of pop standards by Starr Kalihiki Lutu was the perfect finale to a luxurious Five Star dinner off Waikiki Tuesday in the Super Nova Room aboard the Star of Honolulu. With Del Choy on sax and Lenny Keys on keyboards, Lutu had all the support she needed for beautiful renditions of all-American love songs.

ALIVE AND WELL: Kip Welborn, left, talked opera with Neva Rego and Guy Merola at Hawaii Opera Theatre's "Meet the Stars of 'Il Trittico" party Sunday at the Diamond Head home of Jeanne Anderson. Welborn had a major role in the opening story, "Il Tabarro," as Luigi, a barge man who is murdered by his lover's husband.

CATCHING UP ON LOCAL STUFF: Jeremy Blossey, left, and Leslie "Buz" Tennent enjoyed the buffet at the HOT party. Blossey's portrayal of Tinca added a bit of lightness to "Il Tabarro." Tennent was featured in "Gianni Schicci." Blossey studied music at the University of Hawaii, so he and Tennent had plenty to talk about.

BUT CAN HE COOK FOR CATS?: Private chef Francesco Valentini came out to talk with Lorna and John Mount as the HOT party was winding down. Valentini prepared a great selection of Italian food for the party. Lorna Mount's orchestra is one of the bright spots in Army Community Theatre's production of "Cats."