Baraquio busy with CD

The only problem with trying to update Angela Baraquio's fans on her latest endeavors is choosing which ones to talk about. The 31-year-old former Miss Hawaii (2000) and Miss America (2001), who is now a mother of two children, ages 3 and 1, is visiting Honolulu from her Los Angeles home this week for Thanksgiving. While she's here, a special episode of "Living Local with the Baraquios," in which they pay tribute to Angela's brother, who committed suicide last November, airs on OC16. Look for multiple reruns throughout the weekend (www.livinglocal.tv). In the wake of his death, they are "trying to make the most of a really tragic situation." And this is the reason the Baraquios reunited to make a CD of inspirational songs.
"We realized that music was the thread that kept us together," she said. "We're not the best singers by ourselves, but when we sing together, it's a totally different feel. My mom and dad always told us to use your talent to give back to the community. The message is about taking care of each other."

The Baraquios will appear at Ala Moana Centerstage from noon to 1 p.m. tomorrow. CDs will be sold there, or at www.baraquio.com.

Aside from starting a new business with her musician husband, Angela recently was appointed to the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation - a panel of celebrities and leaders established to encourage volunteerism nationwide. Though she misses Hawaii, she loves living on the mainland for the career opportunities, the proximity to the East Coast and, of course, Disneyland for the kids.

"Screen Time" is an occasional feature in the Today section. E-mail knichols@starbulletin.com.

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