5th Hawaiian Luau Raises Funds to Fight Spinal Muscular Atrophy

On August 7, 2010 Naperville, IL was a little more tropical than usual as the 5th Hawaiian Luau Fundraiser for Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy took place at Jane Avenue.  This biannual event took root 11 years ago after Henry Hamman passed away from complications due to SMA.  Neighbors of the Hamman Family wanted to dedicate their block party in memory of him and raise money for FSMA.  Unforeseen to the neighborhood and attendees, it was just the beginning of bigger things to come.  The next year Henry’s parents decided to throw an even bigger block party and include family and friends. Lisa & David Hamman had both experienced luau themed parties in their youth and had fond memories of these fun summer events.  So with the help of family, friends and neighbors they turn their block into a Hawaiian Paradise for one night every other year.  There is a hog roasting, a rock formation waterfall flowing from a tree, 20 foot palm trees lining the street, a smoldering volcano and tiki torches galore.  It is an event for the whole family and includes games for the kids, hula dancers, fire twirlers, a band, a dunk tank and even a mechanical surf board to try out your surfing skills.  It is definitely a night of great food, great music, great entertainment and great family fun.  Best of all, between hula dancing and Mai Tais, the 500 plus guests and friends this year raised over $31,000 for FSMA.