How come, how long... Drafts in the Queue

There have been some posts that I wished I have the time to write, but always I got distracted someway or another. Here are some:

- FNS and YTV charts; 30-11-2007 (No biggie, really)

- Of Leah Dizon, AKB48, Shokotan in Kouhaku 2008; 26-11-2007 (You all know this)

- Other variations of wotagei; 20-11-2007 (Yes there are others, darn cute too)

- Yaguchi Mari denying her alleged relationship; 12-11-2007 (For those who missed it, yeah she had one scoop but not big news either, since she is not in MM anymore)

- Hello Non Pro Hour Lost Months EP01-05; 31-11-2007 (Remember the time when I was missing for months, there were 5 episodes of blog contents that was in queue to catch up on old news while I was away. But time and wife got in the way.)

- Onna ni Sacchi Are translations; 02-07-2007 (Yes I am still doing translations, but now... now i am not so confident of squeezing the free time anymore)

- Bishoujo Club 31; 29-06-2007 (Found out about them while I was looking for info on Berryz Captain Saki-chan. A very interesting alternative to MM, NGP and AKB48)

- KiraPika; 11-06-2007 (Trying to detect a plagiarism act on LuckyStar manga ^_^)

- Relationship between Sky Corp and UFW; 25-05-2007 (The agencies from Sugiura's and Tsuji's agency. There is a connection....... i think. )

- Hello! Project Idol Life and Private Life Part 1 & 2; 09-05-2007, 10-05-2007 ( This series was actually 90% finished. But I forgot now why I did not publish it. Perhaps it was too spicy for anyone to read. This series talks about boyfriends of MM girls and discusses the meaning of Dekikon (shotgun marriage). Also included are my own conspiracy theory of what happened behind closed doors. Could potentially be a novelty piece. )

- Sukeban Curse; 30-04-2007 (I did not come up with this one. But this was too funny, XD)

- Morning Musume Alpha - Onyanko Club; 23-04-2007 (Yes, I did not lie... there is a follow-up piece to the Tokyo Performance Doll article. Yet this article went unfinished due to lack of research materials. )

- Sunday Girls; 07-04-2007 (Old Jpop lovers should know them. The fate of all Japanese act that invade Taiwan with little follow-up)

- Aibon - When did Fiction become fact 29-03-2007 (One of my many Aibon articles, which I am known for. This one talks about the many versions of eyewitnesses on what went behind the curtains of that "love onsen trip". The question is of course which one of them is true. Confession excerpts come from a Aibon fan-forum.)

- Morning Musume - Asahi Shinbun Interview 25-03-2007 (Translation from a newspaper interview)

- Psychology analysis on Morning Musume's body language; 22-03-2007 (Definitely pseudo-science. For fun only.)

- Another H!P curse - Newscasters curse 22-02-2007 (Ever noticed that one by one, every newscaster/reporter of H!P mock news segments like Hello Pro Wide and Hello Pro Channel are in some sort of trouble? ^_^)

- Are the girls in H!P happy? 21-02-2007 (Ever wonder if the girls in Hello! Project are happy what they turned out to be? Would they want to be an undying idol legend like Matsuda Seiko or a ero-kawaii and sexy Koda Kumi?)

- Michishige Sayumi - Unsung Talent 11-01-2007 (An entire article dedicated to Sayu, the true epitome and definition of a pure Japanese Aidoru/Idol)


- Berry Koubou - Healing Power 09-01-2007 (I was sick at that time, and listening to Berryz made me get well faster. I'm not kidding! Therefore i wanted to write a single by single review of all Berryz singles. But once again, no time.....)

There are more of these. Any of these of any interest to anyone?

I'm banging on the idea of plucking some of the old drafts to be published once and for all. But time... time is my biggest enemy. Real life catching on you is NOT something fun. I wish there are 36 hours in an Earth day. If not I'd settle for Earth to have the same length of day as Mars (24.7 hours), cos it sucks to have Venus' length of day (eq. 243 Earth days!).


(; -_-)b Voo!
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Chances for Kago Ai's Return to Showbiz

Another news that I have missed out... It's about Kago Ai. It's been a long time since I wrote something about her.

If you haven't noticed. I have prevented myself from calling Kago with the showbiz name "Aibon" or "Kago-chan" because essentially, that is her showbiz brand, and she is not in it at the moment. Figured that it will be more appropriate for me to address her as a person, as Kago Ai. But that's just me, you do not have to agree with me, you may call her whatever way you're comfortable with.

Here I found a news clip that showed some newscasters analysing the development of Kago Ai and her exile from the entertainment scene due to her reckless behavior.



The news corner starts of by stating that Kago has been terminated from her agency UFA for 7 months already, and further mentioned that reportedly Kago had stayed in Nara for some time after her termination, and afterwards have lived in Hawaii with some relatives, before finally settling down in New York with you-know-who. As much as I love the idea that the "important announcement" on next week's Haromoni would be about her return to showbiz, but after the past frustrations I decided to remain realistic this time. The panel and analysers however decided to shed some positive views on Kago's case this time.

Then the analyser began to explain the possibilities and reasoning of Kago's comeback.
1) Kago provides her family consisting of her divorced mother, 3 siblings (7 yrs old brother, 6 yrs old sister, 2 yrs old brother). She has to work to support her family, and it would be truly difficult for her to work as an OL (office lady) at this time (after being in showbiz for so long), therefore she has no choice but to return to showbiz.

2) Kago deserves another chance. Although she has to pay the price of smoking underage, there are others who have done even worse things but still able to return to showbiz. Furthermore, her smoking did not really cause harm or hurt anyone. One panel mentions that it was not right of her to smoke because of her status as an idol.
The lady panel presents that Kago. like Goto Maki, although still an adolescent she had to work as an "adult" in showbiz for a long time ever since she was 12 years old. And because she is forced to be like an adult (even though she was not) with no one to depend on and be herself, probably she has been looking for a way to release her (suppressed) true self, and found that opportunity with a 35 year old man. The lady panel hopes that Kago is able to make choices for herself in the future, because people will depend on her, and she may break down under pressure again.
The 3rd panel supports the idea of Kago's comeback, though he is concerned about the media and paparazzi who have been working too hard to haunt and expose Kago.

3) Kago turns 20 years old February next year, the legal age in Japan, and it would be a good timing for her comeback. And there are many ways she can do so, even if it meant that she has start from scratch by going into a Kansai-limited circuit (because her hometown Nara is in the Kansai region of Japan), and she can do this while she decides how she wants to shape her career path.


I am contented with this news broadcast, because at least it's not about bashing Kago left and right about what she had done. What I think, is that if Kago does come back, chances are that it will not be with Hello! Project/UFA. The top guns at UFA are known to be ruthlessly strict about maintaining their rules. But I do wish Kago a good "afterlife" from showbiz, and that she live well and healthy...

Peace ^_^
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HNPH, Lost Months - Prologue and H!P Incidents Flashback

Here's to catch up on old(er) news while I was on a break, I do feel that I need to comment on some of the happenings. Not all of them of course, life goes on, and I'm sure there are more incidents to come.



Commenter anna provided a list for me to look into. Some I know, some I didn't. These I do not know ...

- forming of duet Kira☆Pika, Kusumi Koharu and Hagiwara Mai
(^_^)b~~ Yay! Maimai!!

- Aibon's MOM going nude
(o_o;) Good Lord... please have mercy on me eyes...

- Athena & Robikerottsu, formed with Gaki-san, Mittsi, Sato and Saki
(^o^)/~~~ YAY!! Gaki-san!

- Formation of group 'Buono!', formed with Momoko, Miyabi and Airi
(^_^)/ That's great! Though it seemed like 2nd 'Aa!' with Momoko replacing Reina...

-Berryz and C-ute's recent success
(^_^)? Nice!!... but what is it? Sales? Concert attendance record?

- Melon Kinenbi's infamous PV
(o_o)? What happened...? Did they strip off their clothes?

- Tsunku Jr./NG Project
(O_O;)! WHAT?! So it was true?!

- THE Possible graduated from H!P Eggs
(^_^) Aww.... I was gettin' ready to warm up to them. Wait... they'll still be around, right?



On the negative note, the word "scandal" takes on a wider scope by now, so it will called 'Incidents' from now on. Look at what incidents we have so far ->

- Yoshizawa Hitomi's brother died in vehicular accident.
- Kago Ai discovered working intern, caught smoking again, spent the night in onsen trip with old guy... and subsequently fired.
- Hello Morning has transformed to HaroMoni, changes in concept and style.
- 2 Chinese girls accepted to Morning Musume as "exchange students"
- Tsuji Nozomi got sick and dropped out from theater, later discovered that she was actually pregnant, got married with the father of the baby. Currently on a break till baby is born. It was said that the two were introduced to each other through Yaguchi Mari, though they denied of this.
- Shortly after being appointed as Momusu leader, Fujimoto Miki discovered to be in a relationship with a comedian, and subsequently fir-... err I mean, resigned from Morning Musume. Later, rumours surfaced that Fujimoto and her guy were introduced to each other by Konno Asami in her birthday party.
- Konno Asami returns to Hello! Project to join Gatas futsal and musical group

The above stuff that ones I covered, here are some things what happened during my break.

- Iida Kaori got pregnant and married the baby's father - an acquaintance of Tsunku.
- Abe Natsumi got driver license, promoted traffic safety. but soon after ran down a motorcycle in an accident.

And of course the latest news about Goto Maki ->
- Goto Maki got sick and dropped off from concert tour and afterwards rumoured to be pregnant (after Tsuji's case, 'acute-gastroenteritis' is another word for pregnancy ^_^ ). Then her brother got caught committing crime stealing cables, then Gomaki subsequently announced her resignation. [Edited 12:11 p.m.]


Then, found more stuff from the ever-resourceful WHG. Things like:

- Ex-member of Momusu, Ishiguro Aya divorced, husband Shinya wanted to reform LUNA SEA.
- Low attendance in H!P summer concert in Saitama Super Arena
- The A-Team (Morning Musume 10th Anniversary Team), was jeered in live promos. In Oricon chart, A-Team's 2nd single lost to AKB48 by double sales.
- Gatas music group lost to PERFUME in Oricon chart.

I have no way of confirming these sightings and stats, though. Sales figures prolly retrieved from Oricon which is, of course, not really accurate.

Welp... *stretching arms and cracking knuckles*
... time to go to work!

*Commencing search-and-blog mode* (^_^)v


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Scandals, scandals..... What the heck is going on in Hello! Project?!

Been SO busy with work and I didn't have the time to digest the news of Tsuji's marrying Sugiura. Please take this blog post as my personal way of ranting and collecting my thoughts. Apologies in advance for any offense caused.

So here we go...

There are so many scandals going on in Hello! Project. That I can't help but wonder - what has happened? Who or what started it? Here I recount some, and only some, of the many scandals that I can recall and blog about.


Yaguchi Mari
Any news press that talk about scandals within Hello! Project will surely mention Marippe on their articles. Now, she is not only remembered for her outgoing and outspoken personality, she has become the mother of all scandals in H!P. Sure, Nacchi and Kaorin had been rumoured to have boyfriends, it wasn't as shocking as Marippe's.
I've said this before and I'll say it again - I've always thought Yaguchi Mari's scandal with Oguri Shun wasn't a coincidence. At the back of my mind, I still think that it was damn well planned and orchestrated. Why? Because I've read news, rumours and other hear-says that Marippe was tired of being Morning Musume leader but nobody listens to her, or do not offer enough respect. When I watched the video of the jacket photoshoot for "Namida Tomaranai Hokago" single, I saw the other girls playfully teasing Marippe for her height. Sure they're friends and all, but come on... she's their senpai and leader. You don't see them do that to Kaorin, do you? (With the exception of Yossie, of course) Therefore, I suspected that she used this method to force her agency to remove her from Morning Musume.

Now, being a big fan of "The Gooch", I still reserve about 30% of doubt about her scandal. Maybe she did indeed found a happy relationship with Oguri. However, apparently due to work commitments, they broke up, but Oguri found another girlfriend soon after, in Tokuzawa Naoko . Marippe, on the other hand, doesn't seem too shaken by this, and found herself headlining the Friday tabloid with another relationship, this time with former Kansai Johnny's Jr. - Uotani Teruaki.

But, no matter what was the truth behind her private life and relationships, in my view, this has caused a chain reaction of scandals later on. Did the other girls used Marippe's case as an example? Did Marippe's daring actions and having the guts to make her own decisions about her own life affect others?


Kago Ai
Kago Ai was caught enjoying a puff on Virginia Slims at a restaurant, and as we all know, was suspended for underage smoking. Later on, she was reportedly feeling the regret, and worked as an intern en route to her come back. Then it happened again, and not only because that she was reported by Weekly Gendai that she was smoking again, she spent the night with Ishimoto of SOMA at an onsen.
However, I suspected that this incident may have happened much, much earlier. There were sightings of Kago going for onsen trips during the same year of her suspension, so maybe that news was recycled again due to her hot comeback news. Cos' I still cannot get over the fact that the current chief editor of Weekly Gendai was formerly working for Friday. Nevertheless, Kago had admitted to the relationship.



Matsuura Aya
Ayaya have long been associated with Keita Tachibana of Jpop super trio w-inds. Later on, good ol' Friday tabloid made it official when they spotted her loaded with bags groceries and stayed over night at his house that one night. This news didn't get too publicized, due to it being an "open secret". The storm slowly settled down and nobody got kicked out of either of their agencies. Which brings me to the next person who also didn't get kicked out.



Tsuji Nozomi
This by far is the least scandal-like. Mostly due to the positive feedback by UFA, and the much televised press conference announcing the marriage. Why, yesterday's Haromoni@ even featured the announcement in the final minutes of the show. Tsuji did the right thing of pre-informing the agency about her relationship, probably have lessen the severity of her "scandal". However, I still lament the timing of it. But who knows, maybe the agency have gotten used to these news already, OR maybe this is a start of how differently the management view their talents' personal life.


... and the most ironic of them all...

Tanaka Reina
Sorry I had to bring this up, CJ.
I dove into my picture archives and found this....

"Tanaka Reina in Love and Retires"

"And the plan is to get pregnant..."

Can't remember when and where I got this from, but most possibly it was back when Reina got Friday'd last year.
Reina was involved with a boy in high school, and eyewitnesses said that they saw the two have been going out together many times. The agency couldn't afford to lose her to a scandal at that point of time, where Morning Musume's popularity was already fading and was trying to promote her by making her center in the "Ambitious! Yashinteki de Ii Jan" single.
So the agency summoned her to the meeting room and asked her "Either you break up with him, or you quit", in which Reina promptly replied "Okay, I'll quit", much to their surprise. We don't know what happened in the end or what UFA did, eventually Reina is still around and her boyfriend was never mentioned ever again. But as a result, Reina was never featured much ever since then and became the least active member in Morning Musume... compared to Sayu, Kame, Gaki-san, and even newcomer Mittsi, who have their own radio shows.

The ironic part of that news clip is that a personnel from another agency suggested a surefire method for her freedom from UFA - get pregnant. However, this method cannot be executed smoothly because her boyfriend was still in high school. Whether Tsuji picked up this idea from Reina or not, is up to us to guess.



These are only a few that made it to the headlines. I didn't even list down the other rumoured scandals yet and...... you know what, I think I might do that on my next post.

Thanks for reading.
Peace ^_^
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Kago Ai is Back In Showbiz?!

Just caught this on WHG.

Kago Ai is BACK??!!
From what we have up there, as televised in TBS, apparently she has joined an agency in Kansai area, reportedly in her hometown, Nara. Eyewitnesses comments that this comeback is a bit too soon, as she had just been fired only a short while ago. Can anyone reading this or anyone who had caught the news on TV help confirm please?




Now.... from Aibon's firing till today, what I've hearing about with regards to rumours on Aibon's whereabouts, is that Aibon's mom have been going around looking for an agency to accept her daughter. Frantically. It's difficult, and we all should understand why. But this means that Aibon's mom had wanted her child to get back to showbiz. I've also read that the man involved in a relationship scandal with Aibon, Ishimoto of SOMA cafe, was hounded by paparazzi and is starting to get annoyed. He had responded angrily when approached with questions by the journalists. Now he is in the midst of preparing to file a lawsuit against them.

Wait... this can't be right....

With all this happening... should we discard the speculation that Aibon wanted to quit, get married and be a stay-at-home mom? And I will have to throw my guess out the window, that Aibon had orchestrated this scandal to quit UFA?
And all this while... she was caught doing her smoking business... merely because she was just negligent and careless?!

What has become of this world.....?



I'm still scavenging for more information.......


Source from WHG
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It's Official... Tsuji Nozomi, Gyaru Sone and Tokito Ami In New Unit "Gyaruru"

UPDATED 11:50 P.M.: Thanks for waiting... Have to run off to attend to my wife who fell ill, and in my haste made some mistakes on this post. Fixed the mistakes and added some more info.

For the past week, of shady news and such, magazine clips and speculations, it's official.

In an event and press announcement in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki - Tsuji Nozomi, Gyaru Sone and Tokito Ami will team up in a new Unit "Gyaruru". It's a ganguro fashion-based Para-Para gyaru unit, a trend that is popular in places like Shibuya, Tokyo. They each get a nickname for themselves - 'Tsujiji', 'Amimi' and 'Sonene'. I think you can guess who is who.



Surprise #1[EDIT]: Guess what? Gyaruru will be releasing a new single produced by Tsunku, and fashion coordination will be handled by one Gyaru manager/entrepreneur - Fujita Miho of G-Revo. The single is called "Boom Boom Mecha Macho" c/w "Onna no urutora", and will be released under TNX on 20th June this year.

Surprise #2: Tsuji talks about Aibon. This time she did it properly.

"あいぼん（加護）が東京に上京した時は頑張るぞと思っていたので、（あの騒動は）残念だった。自分自身としては“ギャルル”をイチからやって、“辻希美”として頑張っていきたい"

I think Aibon (Kago) did her best when she came to the capital city, Tokyo. It was unfortunate (that the scandal happened). I want to be myself and do "Gyaruru" from the start, and to do my best, as "Tsuji Nozomi".

Influenced by her sister's gyaru style, Tsuji admired her, and said that "I want to walk in the streets with this make-up. Center of the street will be nice. At that time, I want to be called 'Tsujiji' by others". Tokito on the other hand comments that "we enjoy the gap. And the glasses won't be taken off.", Gyaru Sone remarks that "Furthermore, it(the fashion) will keep on changing" with a appealing smile.

See the 3 girls' transformation to Gyaruru's gyaru look from Ranzuki magazine here -->
1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Personally, I don't care much about the gyaru or ganguro fashion thing. It's only natural Tsuji likes it because of her sister (those of us who remember Tsuji's home footage of her family after her addition to Momusu was announced would have seen her sister's ganguro look. ^_^)
What's important is that Tsuji has finally got something going on at the moment. I wonder if she will be allowed to appear in HaroMoni@ after that? ^_^

====================== @@@ ========================

UPDATE 070425 11:04 A.M.:
And the rumours that we have hearing all this while was true. The club tickets, posters and all ... Gyaruru DID perform at Club Pride as reported by Sanspo press.
Hello! Online has some pics, info and a fan recording for listening preview. Get it from Some Boys! if you can't reach it. I think it's great, suitable for a Initial D soundtrack. Heh! :) And Nono... sorry I meant Tsujiji's voice is so distinctive. ^_^

Additionally, the comments from the girls as reported by Sanspo are a bit different. Tsujiji's comment about Aibon:

地元・奈良で謹慎していた）あいぼんが（復帰に向けて）上京してきた時、一緒に頑張ろうと思っていたので残念です。（今でもＷを）やりたい気持ちはあります」と少し寂しい表情を浮かべたが、気を取り直し「ギャルルを一から、辻希美として頑張っていきたい」

"It was unfortunate, when Aibon (who was suspended in her hometown, Nara) came to the city (towards working on her comeback), I had thought that we can work together again. (Even now)I have the feeling of doing it(W) again." said Tsuji, with a lonesome expression, but changes the mood with "Will give my best as 'Tsuji Nozomi', to do Gyaruru from the beginning".

Awww~~~ (T-T)

"私はなりきるタイプで、ミニモニ。では一気に子供っぽくなれたし、このギャルルの衣装を着たら、さばさばした自分を発見しました。この格好で見かけた時は『辻ちゃん』と呼ばれても振り向きません。『つじじ』と呼んで"

I'm the "be anything" type of person. In MiniMoni I can be very childish, but when I dress in this Gyaruru costume I discovered a candid side of me. When you see me dressed in this outlook, don't call me 'Tsuji-chan', I won't respond to it. Call me 'Tsujiji'.

Cute~~~! (^_^)/


Amimi, apparently the sexiest of the 3 by providing lots of cleavage for viewing pleasure, while she remarks:

３人では私が一番変わったと思いますが、そのギャップを楽しんで。でも、トレードマークのメガネは変わりませんよ

I think among the 3 of us I'm the one that changed the most, I enjoy this gap (between my usual image and now). But, I won't take down my trademark glasses.

I like the ending note by Sanspo:

イベントでは「土浦から東京、名古屋、大阪へと乗り込みます。最終目標は海外進出。ハワイへ行きた〜い」と語り、ギャルル旋風を巻き起こし、世界へ打って出ることを高らかに宣言した。Ｗで果たせなかった夢をギャルルで果たす！！

Gyaruru loudly declared in the event, that they want to move on the international level and creating a worldwide Gyaruru Boom, with the words "From Tsuchiura, we will move into Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. Finally will advance to overseas. We want to go to Hawaii!". The dream that W was unable to achieve, is now fulfilled with Gyaruru!!

====================== @@@ ========================

UPDATE 070426 12:34 A.M.:
Japan Probe has a summary of the Mezamashi TV news report on the Gyaruru's event.





Sources
News from Yahoo! News
News from Sanspo
News from eltha
News from Japan-Zone
Single release from TNX
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Tsunku comments about Kago Ai

Tsunku attended a press conference in Harajuku, Tokyo. Because of his producing of comedian duo Ogiyahagi's debut single. What transpired there, and why he is producing a comedy group's song I don't know (well, the song was supposed to be released as a tune to some commercial also). My focus is that he finally talks about Kago Ai. After the "no comment" from Tsuji Nozomi, finally Tsunku himself comments about Aibon.




Oricon's version. Also in Yahoo! News.

"It is regrettable, because I was looking forward towards the comeback. Whether she will return to the entertainment biz (in the future) or not, I will give support from a different parental love, and a teacher's heart. But rules are rules. We will take it (seriously)."

Actually, I don't quite understand that second last sentence => "芸能界に復帰するかどうかは別として親心、師匠気分で応援はしていきたい". "別として親心"?? Can anyone help, please? Malmeingehr, if you are reading this, I need your help please... Onegai shimasu~~ m(_ _)m


Nikkan Sports's version is a bit different. Where he was quoted:

"Rules are rules. Whether it is her or us, we have no choice but to accept it."

Sports Hochi has a different version. Also in Yahoo! News.

"It is regrettable, although we* have worked hard on the comeback. Aside from the return to the entertainment biz, will continue to give my support from a producer's parental love in an important way/sense."

* I'm not sure Tsunku is referring to himself or Aibon. So I'm don't know if it was a "we" or a "she".



I know that there are always some discrepancies in the news reports depending on the reporter. But this time the differences are significant to me..... because I understand them with totally different meanings.

I mean....
- Who decided on the termination? UFA? Tsunku? Or both?
- It sounded as if Tsunku wasn't part of the decision making.... Or was he?
- Does he want to take Aibon under his wing (TNX) after this?
- Was the comeback forced on Aibon or not?




So what's next... oh yeah, Flash (a men's magazine) have released their topic titles, and will talk about "the background history of the man who destroyed Kago Ai". This dude will be hounded with news till the end of the year, it seems.

This is not going anywhere... when will all this END??

UPDATE:
In the comments section, Malmeingehr pointed another version of the news clip. Additionally, added a link where a video stream of the interview can be found, and a full transcript of the interview... Well, just Tsunku's part at the final 45 seconds of the video.

Credit: Image taken from Oricon.
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The Wrath of Mo-Wotas - Visit to SOMA

Just when you think my previous post about Mo-Wotas (Morning Musume Otaku) paying SOMA a visit is purely fiction... they DID pay a visit there for real!


I've been wondering now that Aibon case is closed, would the fans go to the SOMA restaurant out of curiosity, and... err... "talk" to that man Ishimoto (who needs no introduction by now). And what would they do once they get there. I would suggest "Where's the owner?" to start things off.


First, the location of SOMA. Go here. Can't locate it? Have no fear, Google Map is here.


Well... Looks the same as what we saw from the website. Seems like a nice, quiet place. Only that the dude who took the picture probably didn't realise his reflection can be seen from the glass. ^_^


Eating time. Left some notes on a sketchbook.

"We came from the Ookami" and "SOMA Off" ....... Sort of like "John was here" kind of message?

NOTE: Actually, I wonder if it was deliberate, and that he actually meant "Musume".
狼 [Ookami] means wolf
娘 [Musume] means daughter
Unless of course, that visitor means that he came from Ookami2ch - 狼ニュース＠2ｃｈ, a Mo-Wota BBS.


Then comes the bill, signed "Ookami". LOL :D



And these are the business cards found on the cash register.

Yup, they also have a massage services.
Check out the slogan - "Sublime meets ridiculous" - What creativity. Their use of "Engrish" did not fail to impress me. That picture of a trio smoking their lives away is also very educational indeed.


You know what's even freakier about this? Some good fellow left a message on their lanterns at night - A piece of card with "Kago Ai" written on it.


Vandalism with a purpose...... I suppose. (^o^)/

SoOOOooo... SOMA got a national exposure out of scandal. Not sure if it's fair though. I don't know if those fellas did anything more than that. But if they do, it probably won't be published in the BBS only..... it would be on the national news again.

My thoughts... I hope nobody's hurt. The wotas, I mean.


Source from WHG here and here.
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The Wrath of Mo-Wotas

Hehe~~! I'm having a double posting carnival here. ^_^
But this is one is just too funny.... or scary... whichever you prefer.

Wrath of the Mo-Wotas (Morning Musume Otaku).
Image source here.

I'm pretty sure somebody edited the dialogs to parody his/her message. I think you can guess what this is all about, and who that restaurant owner was supposed to be.


"Where's the owner?"




"Boss~~~! Big trouble! There's some weird bunch of people here!"
"Huh?"



Ishi 0 --> "Who are you people?"







"We are the Mo-Wotas"











"So what are you Mo-Wota people doing here?"




"Um....."




"Well....."




"Hey! Are you even listening?"






"Naww~~ We was just wondering where you guys are hiding her... "

"... Aibon"




(Note the SOMA logo)
"Huh?"
"What are you saying? There's no way she can be here."



"We were thinking about that. So we thought that we'd come in and search around"


"What?! So you just come in here to pick a fight? You gotta be kidding me!"



"No, we're not kidding"




"Pick a fight?"

"I think you have misundertood"








"We're just here to wreck this joint up!"






To be continued....
>> Read the rest of this article

The Aftermath of Kago Ai's Scandal

Yeah, I know I shouldn't have posted this. But I cannot get it out of my system just yet.

Seems like Kago Ai's scandal have a significant amount of impact to everyone around her.

First, her now-former agency Up Front Agency. Sports Hochi reports that UFA is reinforcing/reevaluating their system of educating their talents, to avoid similar cases from occurring again. The details are not revealed, but tagged as "industrial secret". Apparently fans were protesting over UFA's decision of terminating Aibon, saying that the punishment is too much. But the agency are not swayed.

Then NikkanSports notes that lots of Aibon related sites have begun shut down, notably a popular Aibon fan site AI am, which will close down by the end of this month. The webmaster came to this conclusion - "you reap what you sow". Also, the man who was in the tabloid with Aibon, Ishimoto, has not appeared in his restaurant in the city and is not available for response/comments, according to the workers there.

As for the fans... not much different from us fans across the oceans. Absolute chaos. There were:
- The calm ones ("Smoking is illegal, she got what she deserves", "Things wouldn't turn out this way if she didn't start it again"),
- The frustrated ones ("Termination is too harsh!", "Give her a second chance")
- The die hard ones ("Aibon, we believe in you!", "It's not her in the photos")
..... etc etc. Like I said - not any different from us. Overall, I think the otakus in Japan has evolved, is more modern-minded and ready to accept the change with the times, not all wotas are necessarily blind followers of their idols. But who knows... we cannot judge the majority based on reactions of the minorities. Myself included.
>> Read the rest of this article

Arrivederci Kago Ai.... Some Thoughts and Closure

Okay, I'm more sober today. Yesterday, I was bawling away over the departure of Kago Ai. But after reading the recent entries by fellow bloggers like pengie and CJ, I realise... things could have been worse, and that life goes on no matter what. Everything needs a closure, so here's mine:

By now, Aibon's case have been all over the news:

After watching all other news reports, all agree with the speculation that Aibon may be scheduled to return to showbiz at either Yoshizawa Hitomi's graduation concert OR Aibon's birthday next year, when she turns 20 years of age. Check out the news clips accumulated here.... it's no wonder we call Morning Musume "National Idols".

Overall, I think Aibon's exit is just too... improper. To exit with a scandal may set a bad example to the younger artistes in Hello! Project. However, it has probably taught UFA a great lesson and made them realise that they have a greater responsibility to play as custodians and "foster parents" in order to educate their talents in their artiste roster.

Related to what I wrote back in the Momusu 8th gen auditions, you want to stay in the game, then play the game. There are rules and ethics to follow in every organization you join. I'm sure other agencies like Avex, and Stardust Promotions have their own rules. I find it hard to believe Aibon do not know the consequences of breach of contract. There must more than we know about the whole scandal issue... something behind the scenes and meeting rooms that we have no access to.

There were many rumours and hear-says travelling around about this case. I'll examine them point by point here. Just my own speculation and analysis of the matter.


Aibon doesn't want to come back to show biz
Rumour has it that Aibon has said it herself, that she wanted to marry and become a mother before she turn 20, just like her own mother (who had Aibon when she was 17). I guess her own mother was a huge influence that lead to this kind of mentality. I remember from some TV show that Aibon do have dreams of becoming a young stay-at-home mom (I think it was the Kochi-ike drama interview). Which brings me to my next point.

UFA wants Aibon back, but Aibon does not
I have made my share of speculations, one of them is regarding the contractual terms between Aibon and UFA, and which party is the one holding back the final say of contract termination. Combined with the rumours I can only conclude that UFA is one holding back and is trying to keep Aibon. But Aibon on the other hand, probably due to the long suspension that gave her ample time to think her future over, decided that she wants to quit. UFA, of course, could not accept the loss of opportunity of balancing the revenue loss due to the first scandal, probably is enforcing the comeback upon Aibon. Therefore, maybe.... just maybe, Aibon devised a plan of her own...

Action from example - Yaguchi Mari
Take from a past example that worked, force UFA to a situation that they HAVE to release her - a scandal. Up till this day, I still do not think Marippe's scandal with actor Oguri Shun was by any means an unfortunate circumstances. Marippe, whom we all know, is a serious worker who understands the ethics to be a good entertainer and professional idol. I don't think Marippe would be that careless to allow paparazzi catch her playing Pachinko with Oguri in public, and allow the reporters to approach them to ask a few questions. If I were in that situation, I'd RUN! Deep inside, I feel that Marippe was trying to leave Momusu early, before the image is totally glued to herself. But UFA would not let her, because they had plans to go a long way with her, using her to carry out new projects. It started Mini Moni, then the Hello! Project Kids project with ZYX. That's why I think the scandal is no coincidence.
Same goes with Aibon. She camouflaged herself with thick-rimmed glasses, changed her attire, tied her hair up, wore a cap (before entering the restaurant) back when she was caught smoking in the first place. A few days ago, she is totally in the open, without cover, car windows wind down, hold hands in public.... I mean, what is THAT? It's so obvious that she simply doesn't care if anyone catches them at all.




Ok... that's all. I have a lot more in my mind but I decided to put this issue behind me. Whatever happened has happened. Whatever the truth may be, we have no choice but to leave all questions unanswered. Life goes on. I cannot go on dwelling on the issue. God has been good, to let Aibon come into our lives, who grew up with us. For the countless times she entertained me with her natural antics and in song, I can never thank her enough. I wish Aibon the best of luck in whatever she do. Mayhaps we may see her again sometime, someplace, somewhere...

Thanks for reading. Peace ^_^

>> Read the rest of this article

It's over.... Kago Ai contract terminated...

This just in.




Title text: News Flash "Kago-chan contract terminated."

And it's all over.


Official announcement from Hello! Project.

EDIT 8:10 P.M. : Scroll down or click here for translation.

加護亜依　一部報道記事について
関係各位　殿

　弊社所属　加護亜依について報じた３月２６日（月）発売週刊誌の記事について、加護本人から報告を受け、残念ながら事実であることを確認しました。

　１年前の喫煙問題の時は、まだ将来のある17歳という年齢も考慮し、実家での謹慎という処分を課しました。１年間の反省過程をみて話し合いの場を設け、再起に向けて一から準備を始めるため、今年の１月２３日に上京してから、東京の事務所で社会勉強と事務の手伝いをさせていました。約二ヶ月間きちんとした勤務ぶりでしたが、今回に関しては二度目ということもあり、復帰については断念することにしました。また、未成年であるため御家族と相談の上了承を頂き、契約についても解除することとなりました。

　このような事態になってしまった事については深く反省し、管理責任を痛感しています。

　今後、尚一層の責任感を持ち、特に未成年のタレントに対しては指導の再徹底を行っていきます。

平成１９年３月２６日
株式会社アップフロントエージェンシー
代表取締役　川口勇吉

Other news sites:
Yahoo! News, sourced from Sport Hochi.
Nikkan Sports
Sanspo

Excuse me for a sec.... I ... err... gotta go take a breather. Will be back to translate... If I can...

**************************

UPDATE 8:10 P.M.:
I have translated the announcement as best I can. Don't mind the grammar, I can't think at the mo. Let me know if you spot any mistakes.

Kago Ai - Concerning a report
To whom it may concern,

Concerning an article that our company have received about Kago Ai on 26th March from a weekly magazine, we have received report from Kago herself, and regretably have verified it to be fact.

One year ago during the smoking issue, taking into account that there is still a future being at 17 years old, we have imposed a house arrest at home.

In observation of the one year contemplation process, providing a space for discussion, we had (Kago) to come to the city for internship and helping with office work in the Tokyo office, towards beginning a preparation for comeback.

Although after approximately 2 months of properly fulfilling her duties, with regards to a second occurrence at this time, we have decided to abort the reinstatement.

Additionally, because it is a case of a minor, receiving acknowledgement after discussing with her family, her contract has been terminated/canceled.

Concerning the becoming of this situation, the custodians has come to full realization with regret. *

From now onwards, we will hold a higher level of responsibility, to provide a thorough supervision especially to the minor talents.

26th March Heisei Year 19
Representative for publicity company Up Front Agency
Kawaguchi Yuukichi

* Not so sure about this phrase. Any takers?

**************************

Well... the wait is over... It's FINALLY over. Yeah, I know there's a chance that Aibon can still approach other agencies for work, and we can still see her.... but for now, Aibon says:

"Sayounara..."

I guess it's expected already. I'm a gonna get some beer tonight...
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai Scandal Acknowledged.... Fans in Denial

So after a month when Aibon exclaimed that "I am deeply sorry, I still want to sing" in Friday's scoop about Aibon working in Tokyo....... this happens. Suddenly Friday seemed like the good guy now.

Whether this scoop is true or not, all I find is that other news sites are already acknowledging the scoop reported by Weekly Gendai.

Sanspo
Nikkan Sports
Yahoo! News sourced from Daily Sports

WHG has highlighted some news scans.



Hopping on the bandwagon to keep up-to-date with "the current hottest news"?
.... Or the naked truth?


"I don't believe this.... this can't be true?!"

That's the same thought I had when I first receive the news of Kago Ai having a go at the cancer stick. I still think of it. Now, a lot of us fans are in denial as to whether the girl in the recent tabloid pic is really Aibon. Come to think of it, we thought the same thing when we saw the picture of a girl wearing a pair of thick-framed glasses smoking her life away in a restaurant late night in February last year.

What I think at least, IMO, is that the mention of Aibon smoking again could be made-up by the WG stalker-reporter. Because, as collaboratively highlighted by all the news site mentioned above --> there are no picture evidence to show that she actually smoked. I mean, come on... you can take clearcut and close-up photos of a girl from the side window of the car but none where she has a cigarette on the mouth?? Not that this would have lessen the brevity of the "crime" if it wasn't mentioned, cos' there's still the love relationship scandal to consider. BUT we all know that relationship scandals have never hurt Goto Maki's nor Matsuura Aya's career in the past, and they have quite a few of them. Just say "It wasn't me" or "We didn't do nothin'", and everything will be alright.

But then again, am I being logical and skeptic? Or just being in a state of denial?



*sigh*
I'm tired. As Ray put it nicely -> We have contracted the "Kago Fatigue".



I better get back to work...
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on the News Again....? [Updated]

Oh GREAT! What is it this time now?!!

I was just thinking of logging in today, to explain my disappearance and announce some happy news... but I received an email from Patrick (Thanks for the heads-up) and double checked at WHG and m.m.p.-san's blog

Seems like Aibon is back on the headlines again.



"Kago Ai on a 'Smoking' Onsen Love Vacation" ??!!

Found even more scans and message alerts about this news. No, it's not Friday again, it's Weekly Gendai. Honestly, I'm a bit frustrated now. Suspicious also, but darn frustrated as well.


UPDATE:

Scans from uploader --> 1, 2, 3, 4

This scoop was covered by Weekly Gendai to be released next month. Date of incident is 18th March. Noting that a couple was spotted walking towards a car parked at a gasoline stand, 600m away from a hotel. It was clearly seen that the two were holding hands.

Then it proceeds to identify the girl to be Kago Ai, and recounts her past "smoking scandal" incident as reference. Also noted her previous news of internship with her management company, Up Front Agency.

Whoever the reporter was, it was truly stalker-style reporting. Because it went on to detail everything from Aibon's clothing and every single noticed action in the car - her cautious expression, body contact with the driver, and ... notices that "something between her index and middle finger, and white smoke coming out", and is puzzled to as to why this action is performed in a public place. Apparently, the driver was assumed to be a heavy smoker, and so probably Aibon gave in to the temptation.

Personally, I find it even more disturbing that the reporter managed to snap a side-view photo of the car while on the move. (Though no picture of her smoking was captured, thank God) What's more disturbing, is how they went as far as get the menu list of what they ate on the Onsen house, even though it was VIP/private function. Further probing finds that the dude was about 37 years old, and the Onsen house workers denies that they were lovers.

I don't want to ramble on, and provide a word-by-word translation. The more I translate, probably the more chances I make mistakes on my comprehension of the article. So here are the focus points:

1) The identity of the man with mustache -> the owner of a popular cafe "SOMA", Ishimoto Haruki, he's married. Reportedly, he is famous amongst some celebrities who patronizes the cafe often.
2) It was supposed to be a small gathering with some relatives, where 7 other people attended as well.
3) UFA was contacted for comments --> "(Ishimoto) is, as pointed out, a close acquaintance. It would be thoughtless/careless of Kago if she did in fact stay overnight". [edited]

My concern about Aibon is the hand-holding part and the smoking part. Good golly, she really should watch herself when in public. I have no problems if she had a boyfriend or something, but she should at least behave in public at a critical moment like this.

I hope nobody will assume that Aibon's is trying to make a return to showbiz by sleeping with some guy, in order to acquire some "assistance". Because the article is clearly making a mountain out of a molehill - 60% sighting reports, 30% speculations news, 10% actual facts. In other words, typical tabloid writing format.

But here's the catch: The current chief editor of Weekly Gendai, was formerly Friday's chief editor. The switchover was 3rd of March 2006. Fishy, fishy...

Again, thanks to those who provided the heads-up. Let me know if anyone find out more about this.

EDIT:
Hello! Online provided a summary of the article, PLUS info from the BBS in 2ch. I may have misunderstood some things, so please go ahead and read it too, to compare.
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai Blues

An Aibon fanvid found on Youtube. Sing along if you like. LOL ^_^



"Kago-chan....... Dai suki~~~!"

........ I don't think John Lee Hooker sang that though. \(^o^)/
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on Friday 5 ... Voices from Japan (Summary)

Belated post.

Firstly, I forgot February is only 28 days, thus I didn't pay my internet bills. And after I managed to reactivate my account, my PC crashed on me. And THEN when I managed to restore it, my ethernet card is giving me problems! *sigh*

Anyway, everything is fine now.

On topic then..... When I went to reactivate my internet account, I stopped by the bookstore and ...

... bought the issue of Kago Ai interview with Friday magazine. I'm having mixed emotions looking at it, although now this news is old. However, I was curious: How are response from the people from Japan with this news?

What I've found are based on reactions and comments from blogs, news sites and a short talk with handful of people residing in Japan. May or may not represent the entire fandom's voice as a whole.

On writing this, I realised that how greatly influenced I am by the popular (now cancelled) weekly Sunday Blog Roundup by Ray of AmericanWota.com. And it shows in the some parts of this article. Heh! ^_^ Don't worry if you cannot read Japanese. Just thought that I'd include my sources in here. So now you know where I mostly do my patrolling. ^_^

Firstly, news sites like Sanspo have acknowledged the exclusive by Friday. Even Yahoo! News have covered it as well with an article (sourcing from gendai.net), adding that there are concerns as to whether Aibon can make her comeback. It is commented that ex-Momusu members are suffering decreased activity, stemming from the current Morning Musume's drop in popularity. It drew such comparison like Goto Maki for being unable to create a wave with her recent sexy image and Nakazawa Yuko's decreased activity. Geinouscoop echoes this article. It further comments, being unsure whether Aibon could at least match up to Yaguchi Mari's current activity.

From the shores of Japan, blogger topspin1 begins by saying if Aibon returns to showbiz, she may be arranged to go on a "different route" and additionally notes that the 1 year suspension is good for Aibon - in a good way (in order to teach her a lesson, perhaps). Further stating that Aibon, due to her being one of the most popular girls back in her Morning Musume days, and had probably become arrogant. Coupled with stress, she became brave enough to smoke. (But I think influence from friends played a big part there too).

On the official return date - there is none announced. But by now, a lot of us have heard about the steady rumour about Aibon's return to showbiz on the graduation day of Yoshizawa Hitomi - 6th of May. Also noted by m.m.p. And I agree with him, and the commenters that posted on my previous posts - Aibon's reinstatement (if it ever happens soon) should NOT coincide with Yossie's graduation. It only makes sense, otherwise it will hurt the meaning of Yossie's graduation. But it's the comments left on that blog that caught my attention. Will explain below.

I found a collection of links of blogs and news sites about Aibon's news, and that's a LOT of links and cross-links. I wish I could join their community to post comments and ask questions, without looking like a complete under-informed gaijin noob. But I cannot, so here's a summary of what I discovered:

1) Aibon haters exist
2) Among blog commenters, a lot of them are pessimistic on Aibon's return.
3) There are no blogs or news sites that bad-mouth Aibon. Only commenters and BBS posters do that.
4) Some people think that the suspension is too short
5) Some compared Aibon's suspension to the ones within Johnny's Jr. And thought that is unfair that Aibon to be allowed to return to showbiz.
6) Some think that Aibon should not be allowed to return because what she did(smoking) had an impact on the younger generations, and that is unforgivable
7) Aibon has gone skinny (Duh!)
8) The "aura" that Aibon projected in the Friday interview emits negative energy. Not sure if Aibon can come back and resume the image back when before she got suspended.
9) Aibon has faded to a mere "normal girl"
10) Bloggers are more hopeful about her return, and agree that her return should not coincide with Yossie's graduation
11) Some think that Aibon has changed/matured. And they are love how she looks now.
12) A small number predicts that she returns when she is 20 years old.
13) Aibon may not be able to sing when she returns. Career path may be more on drama acting, like Yaguchi Mari.
14) "I can't wait for her to come back!"
15) "It's about time!"

..... etc etc etc.


After reading what I have found, I hate to admit it but as the Hello! Project management office(referring to UFA perhaps) said, they DO know what is going on and what's at stake to reinstate "Kago Ai" to the showbiz. And it is a difficult task - currently it is but, in their own words, a "blank sheet of paper". There ARE a bunch of people that have negative views on Aibon after the incident. I guess the plan to bring her back is much more tedious than we expect...

Of course, I do understand that they still have to guard their own interest at all costs. I can only hope that whatever they are planning to do, will pan out just fine. For now, whether the people hate her or love her... one thing's for sure - All the world's eyes are on Aibon.



As for me, Aibon had expressed her regret in the interview. After all, she has said the words I wanted to hear:

"歌いたい・・・"

(Utaitai ~ I want to sing...)

And that.... that matters most to me. Good luck, Aibon!

Thanks for reading.
Peace ^_^
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on Friday 4 ... Voices from Japan (draft)

I wanted to know what the reactions of the Japanese fans, media, and non-fans are like, with regards to Kago Ai's interview with Friday.

So there I was, patrolling the Japanese domains, news sites, blogs...etc. And the result is ... very unexpected, to say the least. I'm in the midst of information gathering, accumulated links and articles. Then I'll see what I can summarize from there.

Man, it was a heck of a lot of input, I'm getting an information overload here. One of the things highlighted, and I'm sure many of us have heard of by now, is the rumoured return date of Aibon - 6th May 2007. The same day of the graduation of Yoshizawa Hitomi. And that Aibon is rumoured to make a surprise comeback to appear at the concert in Saitama Arena. While some fans are happy, most of the rest are not, because it may take away the spotlight of Yossie's graduation event.

I'll get to the compiling afterwards and start on the draft. I'm in office right now, and I really shouldn't be surfing while at work. Heh! ^_^
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on Friday 3 ... Translation Summary

I don't have the time to translate the ENTIRE article, but I thought I'd post a summary of it.

I want to provide a translated summary of the article, but Hello!Online have it posted already.
Those guys there are uber-effective!

EDIT:
Okay, I have problem accessing Hello!Online just now. But I want this good news to spread. So here it is:

Source from Hello!Online

Full Article summary:

- Kago's been working in the UFA offices since January 23rd.
- The photos of her on the street were taken while she was on her way to the office.
- She's working in the office because UFA wants her to get back some self-confidence, and to help her to start from scratch by learning about how the company works.
- The reporter was surprised that UFA let him meet Kago without any prior arrangement. Kago was quite nervous hearing that he comes from Friday (as they broke the news about her smoking incident in the first place. Interestingly enough, smoking, tobacco, etc., isn't mentioned in the interview part).

Interview tidbits:
"For that entire year, I haven't met my friends at all. I was scared to leave the house."
"At the beginning, I also had problems eating anything, and before I knew it, I had gone down from 47kg to 39kg"
"I didn't watch TV much. I saw Musume a few times, thinking "Ah, MoMusu. This is a new song"
"I didn't know much about household chores before, but being at home, I learned some cooking, cleaning and laundry. I started to like doing these."
"I'm cooking myself a lunchbox every day. When I come to the office, first I start with cleaning. My job is to serve tea to customers, and pick up the calls. I still have problems saying "Wait a minute, please" properly. (:D) Also, I'm studying kanji, reading newspapers and helping with searching information on the PC".
"When I was helping out backstage during the Yokohama Arena concert, I met with the members again. But as I lost weight, they had problems recognizing me. Even Nono passed by me without noticing. But everyone said, "Welcome back!" to me, so I was happy."
"Nono brought me a birthday cake, and we did the "Double U desu!" pose again after more than one year"
"I feel bad about how I betrayed the fans, especially the youngest ones. It still feels rough, even after one year. I lived by the motto, "Let things flow" until now, but I realized that doesn't work in the real world. My aim is to be positive and work hard from now on. I don't know when it will be possible, but I really want to sing again."

UFA's stand

"The last year's incident was very serious, so we had Kago stay in 'house arrest' in Nara for almost one year. We checked up on her to see if she had learned from it, and talked to her parents, and now we've allowed her to return to Tokyo. Fans and ordinary people might think we are underestimating this, but by observing her behavior and taking into account that she's already 19 years old, we decided to start preparing for her comeback. But as for exact dates or details, these are unsettled yet."

Mine is a bit longer, but H!O gave us the most juiciest part of the article. Indeed, the first page is all boring stuff on the scandal history, how they discovered Aibon in Tokyo.... blablabla. It's like they are trying to protect their journalistic integrity there. The remaining pages is where the important points are. So click and go there to have a look!

I'm smiling away as I publish this post from my workstation. I need to get back to work now, before they start to think I've gone crazy.... because I've been acting weird since 1:51 P.M. yesterday!

But before I go..... *ahem* (clears throat)

\(^o^)/ WHOOOHOOOOOO~~~~~~~~~~~!!!!!!!!
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on Friday 2...... Clearer Scans

Welp... I went to the store alright, but nope, no latest issue of Friday (the one with Aibon), it seems like we are at least a week late over here. Apparently, it's already on sale in Okinawa, Japan. Probably that's where these scans come from.

Luckily for us, the larger and clearer scans are already up in the uploaders.








Other than having to break my vow of not purchasing Friday anymore since February 2006, yes I am happy for this news. But there are some things that I'm thinking about...

Just why... why has it got to be FRIDAY providing this follow-up news?

I had thought that UFA and FRIDAY would be sworn enemies after the smoking scandal, but no... their reporters even get served tea by Aibon. Something tells me that there is an underlying agreement between UFA and FRIDAY.

Okay, we all know that the paparazzi and the entertainment biz have to co-exist to stay alive. That one cannot live without the other. But shouldn't there be a line drawn somewhere?

I'll get to reading the scans now...
>> Read the rest of this article

Kago Ai on FRIDAY! [ UPDATED ]

UPDATED 5:51 P.M. : From FRIDAY content listing, apparently this article will be published on 9th of March. But I wonder how the contents got leaked out...

m.m.p. has the article excerpts. Found the same the contents at 2ch, BUT I am unable to confirm the authenticity of the excerpts.


FRIDAY article excerpt:

元モーニング娘。の加護亜依が、喫煙問題で謹慎処分を受けて丸１年。
その彼女、今は上京し、事務所で「修業生活」をしているのだそうです。
フライデーは彼女の事務所に取材を敢行。応接室に現れたのは・・・。
復帰はまだ先のようですが、元気そうでなによりでした
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　フライデー

Other excerpts and comments by Aibon herself:

『・今は事務所でお茶くみと電話番してる（記者にもお茶を出していた）
・ファンにもスタッフにもメンバーにもいろいろ迷惑かけてスマンカッタ
でもやっぱり「歌いたい・・・」
・去年は実家で家事ばっかりやってた　友達にも会わなかった
今は都内で自炊生活してる
・今までは「なるようになる」と思って生きてきたけど、今は違う
お母さんから「自分の人生は自分で切り開け」と言われてきたけどやっと意味がわかった
・横アリでひさしぶりにメンバーにあったけど痩せたので誰にも気づかれなかった
・この前辻が事務所にケーキ持ってきてくれた 』


事務所
『復帰させたいとは思っているが時期も方法も未定 』

EDIT: Good man epifanes at Hello!Online have saved our time and went ahead to translate partially:

- currently, she is serving tea and taking phones at the agency (she served tea to the Friday reporter as well)
- "I feel bad for (what my action caused to) fans, staff and members, but I definitely want to sing again"
-last year she spent doing household works all the time, no time even for meeting friends. Currently she is living in Tokyo and cooking for herself.
- up until now, her life motto was "Let things flow", but it changed. She finally understand her mom's saying "You should open up(decide) your own life"
- she met the members after long time in Yokohama Arena, but as she lost weight, no one recognized her at first
- Tsuji brought her a cake to agency a while ago

Agency: We are thinking of wanting to let her (Aibon) return, but the timing and method is still undecided.

If this was for real, I don't mind Aibon working part-time or serving tea for a little while longer,.... until the shackles have been taken off, of course. ^_^

I'm still be going to the store to double check. At least NOW I know how the cover looks like.


Bring back Aibon! \(^o^)/

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UPDATE 3:32 P.M.:
Found the full text from 2ch ==> 上京、事務所で“お茶汲み”修行生活

"Going to an office in the capital city(Tokyo), 'serving tea' training life"
?? O_o ?? Man... she better not be working as a OL (office lady) or tea lady or something...



Additionally, I found out that lots of people having calling up the H!P fan club for news and....
.... you know what, I'll stop here and just stick to getting the magazine. It's all hear-say stuff anyways.


And I got a job to keep too...

==================== @@@ ========================

Published: 1:21 P.M.

Thanks to Anna for the headsup!

Found Kago Ai's picture on the FRIDAY magazine from the uploaders.






I could not find similar info/pic from the Internet FRIDAY website.
Usually, it's typical of FRIDAY to pre-announce their scoops and headlines before it hits the stores and online accounts. But I could not find anything there, and I don't have an account with FRIDAY.

So let's just analyse what we got...

Picture #1: What we have here are only a few big readable words that I'm concerned about - 上京修行.
And a small "奈良 ->". We got "Going to the capital city from Nara to study". O_o
Can't make out the first two words from that line on the top right but it translates to "[ XX & Confession ] Scoop"

Picture #2: Now, it's this picture of Aibon sitting down with a cuppa on hand that caught my attention. What is THIS? An exclusive interview? For the same magazine that caused her career??



I'm busy at work now, will go to the stores tonight. And if it is available, I suppose I will ...*sigh*... BUY the magazine, to confirm the news and to see what it's all about... AND to check if it is an old picture after all.


......*sigh*... so much for boycotting FRIDAY...


For those who have the mag and have more info on this, please share with us. Thanks!
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