Post #724277 by TikiTomD on Wed, Jul 30, 2014 12:24 PM

Aloha, Matt!

1. Yes, Nani Maka Maloney is one and the same as Princess Nani Maka starring in the movie, Pagan Island. Nani, along with Puanani "Greta" Kanemura (later to be Mrs. Bob Van Dorpe), was the original Mai-Kai Mystery Girl. The movie itself was filmed in Miami, with the underwater scenes filmed at the Miami Seaquarium. Bunny Yeager, famous pin-up model and photographer, selected the cast. Nani was one of Bunny Yeager's models.

2. I believe the mural remains at Julian's, but the property is still for sale, despite a newspaper article some time ago indicating a buyer who planned to rename it and keep it as a restaurant. The mural is definitely in jeopardy. Last weekend I drove by Julian's, and the for-sale sign now sports a "Reduced" price sign (no price stated) :(

3. The little hut is one of several I was fortunate enough to acquire from Tiki Central's master miniature hut maker, uncle trav... here is a Tiki Central link to his creations.

4. Love the works of Miguel Covarrubias, particularly the examples you cited... I don't personally have any of his original art.

5. Awesome that you have such a view! We acquired that painting decades ago from the artist in Waikiki along the Honolulu Zoo fence.

Totally agree, we on this forum are all connected to some degree, and that is a good thing... I have learned much here, contributed a few things, and found new friends and interests through Tiki Central.

Mahalo, Matt, for your visit. Please come back :)

-Tom