Joyce Takemori: For Love of Bobby

Joyce Takemori is no groupie but there's a very special place in the Aiea's
woman heart for Bobby Rydell.

Takemori is the only Hawaii member of Rydell's fan club, still has the
program from his 1960 concert at the Civic Arena and recently wrote him
explaining how pleased she is that he's performing here again.

"I was one of those crazy, screaming teen-agers at his 1960's concert," said
Takemori, 52, the mother of two. "He was so good looking with that hair, that
voice, and he could really move."

(Takemori's favorite Rydell songs are "Swingin' School" and "Cha Cha Cha"
because "they're so danceable.")

Rydell was moved by Takemori's letter. "It's incredible," he said. "Imagine
someone actually taking the time to sit down and write to me about a
performance 38 years ago! She even sent a clipping from the program. It
makes you realize that some things you did in your life had meaning."

Takemori -- and her husband and two friends -- are attending Saturday's
Valentines Day Hop.

"We're in the second row center section, seats 4, 5, 6, and 7," she said,
giggling. "I might even bring a lei for Bobby.

"My husband says, 'Why not, go for it.' "

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