December 2007 | Small Business News
Bob Sigall's New Book - The Companies We Keep 2
Whose idea was Magic Island? Which Hawaii non-profit was inspired by an Oprah show? What did Imelda Marcos think of Frank De Lima's impression of her?
These and many other stories can be found in Bob Sigall's follow up to his bestselling book: The Companies We Keep 2 - More amazing stories about Hawaii people, places and companies, published by Small Business Hawaii.
Sigall says he expected people would come forward with interesting stories after the publication of his first book. "I found out, for instance, that Magic Island was Henry Kaiser's idea, and he wanted to build two real islands on the reef parallel to the beach, along with six hotels. The legislature reeled him in. I have a photo of the eight foot model he built to showcase his idea."
An Oprah show about "Random Acts of Kindness" led to the founding of the Visitor Aloha Society, which helps tourists who are the victims of crime or calamity.
"Another great discovery is that the Honolulu Advertiser has 500,000 well organized photos and they were very amenable to my browsing and using them," Sigall says. The 240 page book has 250 pictures, with many in color. Some great pictures of Frank De Lima dressed up as Imelda Marcos led to an interview with him. "Imelda told Frank she couldn't believe how much he looked like her!"
Sigall also interviewed Joe Moore, who talked about Aiea High School - his dad was transferred to Ohio in his senior year. "Most people think he graduated from Aiea," Sigall continues. "He also revealed what he sees as his secret to success and longevity and well as his career plans. He's been KHON anchor for 27 years, and now that he's at the tail end of his career, he didn't object to sharing things that might help his competitors."
Which Hawaii organization was inadvertently created by former Gov. Cayetano? It's Hawaii Reporter. Cayetano pressured PBN to fire Malia Zimmerman, but she left to found Hawaii Reporter.
Another interesting story is about how the Civic Center site was chosen for the State Capitol in 1959. Twenty locations were considered, including Fort Armstrong, Aala Park, the current site of HPU's Windward campus, Fort Ruger, and the Ala Wai Golf Course.
The Companies We Keep 2 is available at most major bookstores. It's a great gift for business people and those who have moved to the mainland.
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