Post #4069 by Kailuageoff on Sun, Jul 21, 2002 8:15 PM

Hukilau (and Vics) was everything and much more than Wahine Marian and I ever expected... Beachcomber hats off to Swanky, Ford and Christie for the fantastic job they did organizing this event and much mahalo to Sven, King Kukulele, Dejie, Wayne & Becky Coombs, the gang from KreepyTiki and all the other artists and musicians who came to together and created a great vibe for all of us. It was a pleasure meet and share libabtions with one and all. To me, this weekend was like Woodstock for tikiphiles. There was always something happening with a very warm and friendly feeling among everyone -- whether tiki-informed or not -- and the only hassles I witnesses were those experienced by the overwhelmed staff at Vics (Hey, what are we going to do? I think we're running out of rum!) One question I asked alot was "how did you find out about this," and the variety of answers were fairly remarkable. Many people didn't know a thing about Tiki Central, but were interested to know how they could find out more about tiki culture, how we stayed connected and when the next gathering would be.
Sven started this topic commenting on the huge flamming and smoking tiki's Wayne Coombs brought from Coco Beach, Florda. Those babies were so unexpected and so awe-inspiring, they really set the mood for the weekend from the first minute we arrived at the Echo Lounge. I also take pride that they were made in Florida, a land far removed from the Pacific but rich in tiki cultural heritage. We ended up spending much time with Kilikopela(Chris) from Tampa and meet many other fine people from Florida for the first time which we hope to see again soon. We took two rolls of film, and will try to post some pictures in a few days. If anyone is in Ft. Lauderdale next Friday, please join us at the Wreck Bar in the Sheraton Yankee Clipper. We may also venture over to the Mai-Kai a bit later for a flamming beverage or two.