Celebrating late Senator Spark ‘Sparky’ Matsunaga

HANAPEPE — Celebrate the 104th birthday of former U.S. Senator Spark “Sparky” Matsunaga in a garden made in his honor, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Storybook Theatre of Hawai‘i in Hanapepe.

Mark Jeffers of Storybook Theatre of Hawai‘i explains the importance of Matsunaga’s event.

“It is appropriate for Kaua‘i keiki to know the story of Sparky Matsunaga and to remember him as an outstanding citizen, patriot, and a pursuer of world peace in our lifetime,” Jeffers said. “Sparky, like so many young people today, found a pathway to fulfilling life through his courage and his desire to help others.”

All those who choose to come to celebrate are encourage to bring a lei to put on his statue to honor his memory. There will also be the lighting of his garden with new pathway lights.

Jeffers said he has decorated his storefront and doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and there will be temperature checks and masks for everyone who attends in person.

The narrator will be Jerry Hirata for the slide show of the images they have of Matsunaga, his family, his colleagues, and accomplishments.

After the ceremony, free desserts from MCS Grill of Hanapepe will be provided.

“Chimes and her mother, Debbie, have put together a delightful selection of treats for us to sample,” Jeffers said. “Lastly, we’ll social distance outdoors in Sparky’s Garden for the Lighting Ceremony of our new lighting installation by Southside Landscaping with special thanks to the 2018 Hawai‘i State Legislature.

Jeffers said anyone that comes in early can help with decorations before the ceremony begins.

For more info: www.storybook.org or call 808-335-0712.