The idea of a hurricane happening in the Midwest is as corny as those "Surf Kansas!" bumper stickers. However, at the Florida-themed Sandbar in Lawrence, the owners are so enthusiastic about incorporating the hurricane idea into a campy floor show that it's oddly endearing. The festivities kick off every night at 7 and 10, when a staff member recites a poem. Then the bar TVs cut to a fake newscast, in which Lawrence notables warn of the approaching storm. A siren goes off, a wind machine is turned on and howling storm sounds are played for about five minutes. When that dies down, the staff stands on the bar and dances to a bastardized rendition of "Copacabana." The effect is even more startling after a few foofy girl drinks festooned with umbrella-and-bead-necklace garnishes.
