WHEEL OF
FORTUNE

Twelve years after it's first remote outdoor remote in Hawaii, America's top syndicated television series once again set-up shop at the Hilton Waikoloa to film twenty shows here on the Big Island. After learning about the tapings from one of our clients, Big Island Sam's, David Tatera and I acquired some tickets for the show and made plans to attend.  Well, it was a blast. 

We arrived at the Hilton Waikoloa Village around 7:30pm and made our way to the guest tent where hundreds of other Wheel fans were eagerly waiting. There were several monitors showing the earlier tapings of the show, and there was a lot of excitement in the air.

At about 8:30pm, we were lead down the path to the elaborate Wheel of Fortune filming area. It was HUGE and incredible. There was a giant bleacher seating area that held approximately 1300 viewers, and a giant overhang that reminded me of the stage at the Queens' Garden where Earth Wind & Fire performed. And there, right before us, was the world famous wheel! It was sitting atop a beautiful green stage, and to the left were the famous letter monitors that we knew would soon be tended to by the famous Vanna White.

The producer, Steve Schwartz greeted the crowd and gave us some impromptu training and help (especially stressing to not shout out the answers!) Apparently, this has happened before, and the entire show had to be re-taped! 

Well, within a few more minutes, Pat Sajak and Vanna White appeared on the stage, made a few funny comments to the crowd, and the games began! We watched two tapings (which are to air November 15 and 16,) and watched several local people win some really cool prizes. Big Island Sams was mentioned as a sponsor (by Pat Sajak,) and the shows will be watched by approximately 15 MILLION people each night in November. So mark your calendar!