Jasmine Trias Maryknoll graduate Jasmine Trias, had more Hawai'i votes cast for her as a contestant on "American Idol" than were cast in the recent presidential election. She captured the hearts of the people of Hawai'i. In fact, there are as many people rooting for Jasmine to have a winning season this year as there are for June Jones. She's sweet and she represents Hawai'i in the most positive light. You go girl!
		Michelle Wie You can't talk about up-and-comers without mentioning Michelle Wie. Can you believe this kid? Even on her worst day, she's hitting the ball farther and longer than most grown men. As the youngest ever golf phenom, she's humble, she's driven, she's beautiful, and the entire 50th State is rooting for her.
		Duane "Dog" Chapman If you are on the run, he will hunt you down. Dog the Bounty Hunter has proven himself to sniff out criminals wherever they may hide. The star of his own A&E TV show, Duane "Dog" Chapman and his family have captured the reality TV show hearts of Americans everywhere. Hats off to Dog.
		Raiatea Helm Passion is a word that can also be used to describe Raiatea Helm, who burst onto the Hawaiian music scene in 2000. At age 18, the depth of vocal talent she demonstrates is purely inspirational. She plays the ukulele. She dances hula. She's graceful, emotional and so very talented — she took home four Na Hoku Hanohano Awards including Female Vocalist of the Year and Favorite Entertainer of the Year. A real superstar, keep your eye on the dynamic Raiatea Helm.
		Chad Rowan Chad Rowan (Akebono) is changing careers. The professional sumo legend is making a comeback this year with his debut on the World Wrestling Federation tour. His high energy and enthusiasm helped to grow the sport of sumo — and at age 36, he hasn't lost his fight.
		Edgy Lee Independent film maker Edgy Lee's thought-provoking documentaries, including "The Hawaiians — Reflecting Spirit," "Ice: Hawai'i's Crystal Meth Epidemic" and the sequel "Life or Meth: Hawai'i's Youth," continue to garner national acclaim. A fifth generation Hawai'i-born artist and classically trained in piano and violin, Lee studied fine art at the San Francisco Art Institute. Her work is both educational and inspiring and she's changing lives.
		Lynn Finnegan Every mom's hero, newly selected State House of Representatives Minority Leader Lynn Finnegan was initially motivated to get into politics to improve education for children. Her uncompromising values, her level head, and her ability to see obstacles as challenges resonates with her coworkers and her constituents.
		Jack Johnson Keiki are idolizing singer/songwriter Jack Johnson. If aloha has anything to do with heart, Johnson's Kokua Festival benefiting his environmental-education foundation is certainly an example. This North Shore resident is a role model for students and parents alike — with integrity through and through. He doesn't just teach people to be environmentally conscious, he's passionate about it. His commitment to the cause and his talent as a musician make him a star in every sense of the word.
Tiki Taboo What happens when you take five guys and throw them back 40 years to the age of surf and sand? The answer is Tiki Taboo. This super hot group is freestyling hits way into the hearts and souls of all Hawai'i. It's all about surfin' music, dude. If you loved "The Endless Summer" you'll love this vintage sound. They don't come any cooler than Tiki Taboo.
		Jake Shimabukuro He's so fast, it's hard to believe that Jake Shimabukuro can possibly sit still for five minutes. When he plays the ukulele, everything is a blur. But the melody is sweet and his genius is something to marvel. Traditional Hawaiian ukulele music is nothing new here, but Jake is taking it to a new level and taking it global.