Post #286686 by Son-of-Kelbo on Mon, Feb 19, 2007 11:57 AM

Terrific Pics, Ojaitimo Tim! A wonderful account of last Saturday evening, and a compelling retrospective of the historic merit and importance of Trader Vic's Beverly Hills.

And a heartening turnout by everybody who could make it! It was splendid having an opportunity to meet with the TC-ers in the Marco Polo Room and around the Bar, who could gather there to wave the flag a bit and discuss how we might carry on the fight to save TV's 90210. Libby and I had a blast returning to the "scene of the crime" (our wedding reception in the Garden Room) with some friends from that occasion who joined our group, Scott Hunter (son of Jeffry Hunter), and his new bride Viechel.

I am entirely unashamed to have asked Sven to autograph my copy of the Book of Tiki (wouldn' you, too?), which he did with great generosity and aplomb. Mr. Kirsten's book was a beacon across a sea of scattered islands, which has helped to give focus and perspective to a cultural revival that continues to bring together so many who remember the old times, and new enthusiasts who are discovering the contemporary vibrancy of this scene, every year since its publication.

The general native crowd, beyond those of us who were there with the intention of rallying to save TV's BH, was large and loud (the place was packed!), so let's put the lie to any pronouncements from "demolition-minded quarters" that Trader Vic's has seen its day. It's as lively a nexus among LA's nightspots as it ever was, and any PR to the contrary is bilge from the bulldozer's camp, period.

And yes, SwampTiki, you were thought of, and mentioned more than once during the course if the evening. Can't recall if we actually knocked back a Mai Tai or two in your name, though, so I'll take tare of that right now...

Cheers and aloha nui to all who could be there, and all who were with us in spirit. Let's do it again in one month (3-17-07), and ride a petition swell to save this great place from the wrecking ball.

SOK