New *Rotary* Year Celebrations on Maui

On a recent Monday evening over 100 members and friends of the nine Rotary Clubs on Maui gathered at Seascape Restaurant to celebrate the induction of the 2023-24 club presidents.  Master of Ceremonies Joshua Laguana from the Rotary Club of Hickam Pearl Harbor led this unique party-like event.  As part of the celebration Mayor Richard Bissen addressed the group to congratulate the outgoing and incoming presidents on their past and future roles as providers of service activities for the island of Maui and beyond.  Kumu Kimokeo Kapahulehua shared the opening pule and a special Hawai’ian blessing for the new presidents and the event opened and closed with slack key entertainment by Shem Kahawai`i.  District Governor Elect Mark Merriam from the Rotary Club of Metro Honolulu was the induction officer for the nine 2023-24 presidents.  Each of the new presidents received a lei and pin from their respective past president.  Ten of the attendees were Rotary leaders who traveled from neighboring islands to attend the celebratory occasion.  A special feature of the event was the recognition of Joanne and Larry Laird for their leadership of many Rotary-sponsored programs on Maui and beyond.  After 20 years residing on Maui the Lairds will be departing for a 3-year residential world cruise at the end of 2023.