MEDIA RELEASE

From L-R: Kyle Kawano, Barbara Hastings, Rose Anne Navalta, Cedric Mitsui, Bettye Williams and Roy Takemoto.

The Rotary Club of Hilo Bay installed Barbara Hastings, partner at Hastings & Pleadwell: A Communication Company, as president during ceremonies marking the Club’s 26th anniversary.

Outgoing president Cedric Mitsui, O.D., a Hilo optometrist, passed the gavel of leadership to Hastings June 25 at a celebration attended by members of Rotary clubs from East Hawaii.

Other officers installed were Mitsui, vice president, Kyle Kawano, secretary, Paula Uusitalo, treasurer, Rose Anne Navalta, Sergeant at Arms, and Roy Takemoto, Attendance Secretary. Bettye Williams is president-elect. Officers were installed by Hawaii County Prosecutor, Mitch Roth.

Neil “Dutch” Kuyper, president and CEO of Parker Ranch, was the event’s guest speaker. Kuyper spoke about Hawaii Island megatrends—food and energy—two game changers he believed would be responsible for ensuring that residents continue to enjoy a high-quality way of life in the islands.

This year, Rotary International has chosen the theme “Light Up Rotary!” to challenge Rotarians to light up their clubs and communities through service.

Rotary Club of Hilo Bay averages about 50 members who participate in community service projects and financially support local scholarships, local, statewide and international service.

More information about the Rotary Club of Hilo Bay is available at www.hilobayrotary.com