Disney characters enliven ‘Polar Express’

KAPA‘A — The appearance of Disney characters topped the free movie guests were expecting to see, Friday night at the Aston Kaua‘i Beach at Maka‘iwa.

Partnering with the Rotary Club of Kapa‘a, the Waipouli resort pulled all the stops to treat guests to a break from the holiday frenzy.

Paul Arrigo of the Rotary Club of Kapa‘a said there were some challenges getting the screen, but the club came through with it and a projector. Myron Lindsey and the Maka‘iwa’s Engineering Department set up for about 200 guests.

“We thought we would check it out because it sounded like a family-type event,” said Jack Yatsko of the Kapa‘a Elementary School PTSA who had his family in tow.

They lost little time diving into the freshly grilled hamburgers, hot dogs and award-winning chili created by Maka‘iwa executive chef Rafael Camarillo. Also on the menu were bags of popcorn, one bag being enjoyed by Malie Miyazaki who was in the audience with her mom and grandma.

“This is something we felt would be a nice way to give back to the community,” said Maka‘iwa General Manager Ike Cockett who brought his family out to enjoy  the Disney movie, “Polar Express.”

Lindsey said the resort staff felt they would start small and if the event was successful, plan for future similar community events.

Guests huddled under blankets, towels and jackets as the cold winds stirred the night as darkness enveloped the last vestiges of sunlight.

With still some time left before the movie started, the shadow of three giant characters stirred the guests and as they recognized the familiar mouse ears. Blankets were tossed aside as life stirred on the lawn, young people scurrying forward to hug and dance with the Disney characters.

That set the stage for the movie which Arrigo said was provided by Blockbuster.

A portion of the proceeds from the food concession was earmarked for the Rotary Club of Kapa‘a to help the youth in the community.