SPRD luau draws statewide interest

Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) staff were unsure what kind of response they would get to a Hawaiian luau in a Western-themed town, but the response has shocked even the most optimistic staff members.

SPRD is now asking guests to please bring blankets and their favorite folding chairs to the event, set for Thursday, August 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Village Green, since pre-sale tickets have already exceeded the seating currently at the venue.

When asked about the recent flood of ticket sales, SPRD Adult Program Coordinator Shannon Mokuahi Rackowski said: "Mahalo Nui, many thanks to Sisters Country for the great response to SPRD's Hawaiian Luau. We are getting calls, emails and walk-ins for ticket sales like crazy. Come ready to enjoy the food, music, and dancing."

The entertainment was originally slated to be Shannon dancing Hula and local musicians providing the sounds of the islands. However, word has been spreading though the Hawaiian community of Oregon, and in the traditional spirit of Hawaiian unity, musicians from as far away as Coos Bay have been calling up to volunteer to come and play at the event.

"With all the new people coming on board, this is truly going to be one of the can't-miss events of the summer," said SPRD Executive Director Liam Hughes.