The Left Lane
Skinny chefs shine, Vintage surf stuff sought for auction, How long can they go?

KHON

Skinny chefs shine

Look for Chai Chaowasaree of Chai's Island Bistro and his pal Beth-An Nishijima of Nori's in Hilo to share the spotlight in a special edition of "Hawaii's Kitchen," 7 p.m. Sunday and 8 p.m. Monday on KHON. Hosted by Brickwood Galuteria and celebrating the second anniversary of the bistro, the show also features music by Hapa (before the duo's breakup) and the Brothers Cazimero.

The special was supposed to air two months ago, but was put off because of Chaowasaree's troubles over his U.S. residency status (the Thai chef is currently awaiting a court ruling). He said the show is meant to be a pilot for a possible series featuring him and Nishijima, titled "Two Skinny Chefs." "I think we have good chemistry," he says of the pairing. "I'm straightforward, teaching people how to cook ... and she makes people laugh."

— Esme Infante Nii, Advertiser assistant features editor

Vintage surf stuff sought for auction

Here's your chance to put that old Lightning Bolt surfboard or that original "Endless Summer" movie poster that hasn't seen the light of day for decades to good use and make some cash at the same time. Surf promoter Randy Rarick is searching for additional items to include in his Vintage Surf Auction, scheduled for July 21 at the Hawaii All-Collector's Show 2001.

Ninety percent of the auction proceeds will go to those consigning items, while 10 percent will benefit the Hawaiian Lifeguard Association Junior Guard Program. Rarick is looking for vintage long boards, artworks, decals, Duke Kahanamoku memorabilia or anything that's old and surf-related. Call Rarick at 638-7266.

— Will Hoover, Advertiser staff writer

How low can they go?

Asking a travel agent to find the lowest airfare seems like a simple request. But a report last week by the Consumer Reports Travel Letter indicates that agent's self-interest may be coming between you and the best fare.

When asked to find the lowest non-stop fare on specific routes, almost half of the 840 travel agencies surveyed failed to do so. When surveyors reiterated the question, a total of 63 percent found the lowest fares. Another 25 percent didn't disclose all the lowest-fare options. And 12 percent never quoted the lowest fare at all.

The reason may be commission overrides, bonuses airlines pay travel agencies that meet sales quotas on certain routes. The bottom line: Shop around. The complete report in the June newsletter is available online.

— USA Today