Luau at the Zoo
Martha D. Urquides-Staab Vistas Editor
The weather is getting warmer and it’s time to break out the bikinis and grass skirts and get down to the annual luau party at the Spring River Park and Zoo, April 28. The Sweet Leilani’s, NMMI Pacific Island Club and Pahu Menaolana Club bring the annual luau party to life. The luau party will have door prizes, silent auction, refreshments and a Hawaiian shirt contest. This event brings the essence of Hawaii to southeastern New Mexico. The
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
event will have island music and dancers that reflect the beauty of Polynesia. The songs and dances are both sacred and tell stories of life, love, people, the ocean, and the rituals the islanders preserved of their history and culture. The rituals were the forerunners of what is called hula today. The Leilani’s diverse cultures reflect the all-American city and are calling out the community to come join them celebrate the Hawaiian culture “We love to share the beautiful culture of the Pacific island within our community. We want to Photo courtesy Mary Hart
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continue enriching our knowledge of the Hawaiian traditions that express the aloha spirit,” said Leilani Emma Arzda. The Sweet Leilani’s has been an organization for more than ten years, led by Mary Hart who had studied dance for several years, formed a group of women who wanted to dance and contribute to the community. This non-profit organization has put a serious dent in several causes and organizations in the community. Anywhere these ladies can contribute they do. Some of those include, CASA, Humane Society, Adopt-A-Mile, Lend-a-Hand, UFO Days, Bataan March, Adopt a Soldier, Assisted Living Centers and many others. Their efforts in building a better community have landed them several recognitions. In a few weeks the Leilani’s will be attending the Roswell City Council meeting to receive the 2012 Dorothy Mullins Arts and Humanities Southwest Regional Award. VISION MAGAZINE
In 2010 The Leilani’s received the New Mexico Recreation and Parks Association Arts and Humanities program of the year award in recognition of commitment and contribution to citizens of Roswell. The Sweet Leilani’s have also extended their efforts on a personal level with New Mexico Military Institute. Hart contacted Dr. Farrell and engaged in the Ambassador Program. The Sweet Leilani’s visit the cadets and they currently have pen-pals in Somoa. From this ambassadorship the NMMI Pacific Island Club was born. Cadets are here from various islands and they learn and share their heritage. They will be perfoming at this year’s luau. “Having worked many years at NMMI I was aware of the wonderful group of Pacific Island cadets. It was a natural teaming up of our group and theirs to educate and entertain Roswell in the city luau. Guests will be amazed at the cadets dance
energy, skill and dedication to their culture. People should not miss this opportunity to see them perform,” said Leilani Marla Higginbotham. The luau is the Sweet Leilani’s biggest event that is held annually at the Spring River Park. The Sweet Leilani’s promise a day of fun in the sun and all the proceeds from the event will go to benefit Lend-a-Hand. Roswell Folklorico director Frank Herrera is helping the Sweet Leilani’s in a special dance that will be performed at the event. “I love learning at the Hawaiian class. It’s not just a dance but a unique culture about their traditions, customs, costumes, and lives. Most of all I love the friendships that I have found at class which is priceless,” said Leilani Silvia Flores. This event is sponsored by the city of Roswell Parks and Recreation Department. For more information call 973-4412 or 622-3725 THURSDAY, APRIL 19, 2012