Weekly Newsletter 05/06/2026

The Rotary Club of Hilo Bay: Meeting Notes – May 6, 2026

Call to Order

President Tim Hansen brought the meeting to order at 7:12 AM due to technical issues. 

 

Opening Activities

The meeting opened with Mary Begier leading the Pledge. This was followed by an inspirational moment from Richard Cunningham. ”If you want to be successful don’t be afraid to strike out.”

 

Trivia and Notes

When did Boys Day begin? It was made a national holiday in Japan in 1948 but its antecedents go back to the 8th century.

 

Guests, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Inductions, Special Recognition

  • Birthdays: None
  • Anniversaries: David & Caroline DeLuz, Steve & Hirona Sylvester, Yu Yok & Mike Pearing
  • Inductions: Joanne “JoB” Balberde, Patrick Bodell
  • Guests: Lisa Williams, Damien Chitwood & Ohana
  • Kim Keahiolalo asked Damien Chitwood to approach the podium. Damien was awarded a $1,500 scholarship from the Club. Damien is graduating Hilo High and attending San Franciso State University major in criminal justice. He will become a police officer after graduation SFU and hopes to return to the Big Island. Damien was joined by his family and pictures were taken.
  • Richard Cunningham announced that the pile of wood, also known as jewelry, was ready to receive a new owner. Everyone who contributed $50 or more to either HRYF or UofH Foundation had a chance to win the box. After an impromptu drum roll, Damien handed Richard a name—Lorraine Davis!

Club Announcements

  •  President Tim announced that he found, as a result of moving, a thank note from Admiral Ryan Mahelona and his wife for the warm welcome they received in Hilo. Plans are underway for their return in 2027.
  • President Tim also announced that the annual dues invoices are going out. Individual dues are $300 and couples dues are $450. Payment should be made asap and checks or cash are preferred.
  • Virginia Juettner announced that things were wrapping up for the year one last Birth Day books distribution next Wednesday and the final class reading.
  • May 16th, the Food Fight to End Hunger. The goal is to raise $6,000 to be distributed to the Food Basket, Salvation Army and Hope Services. Please make your generous donations payable to the agency or agencies which you want to support. May 16th will be the Food Fight Day at St. Joseph’s cafeteria from 1-3 pm. In addition to collecting money, you can contribute by attending, playing games and pieing local Rotary dignitaries. All proceeds will be distributed to the three previously listed agencies.  The Rotary Club with the highest per capita giving gets bragging rights for winning the Food Fight to End Hunger. Rotary Club of South Hilo pledged $3,000 and Hilo Rotary Club pledged $1500. Where is Hilo Bay?
  • Jill Jacunski and her family reminded us that the Jacunski Memorial Scholarship will be awarded  at the Friends of the Children’s Justice Center Gala on 5/23. All Rotarians are invited to attend.
  • President Tim announced that the YWCA fundraiser will be held on 5/21.
  • Alan Okinaka reported that Club Runner is holding online workshops to introduce its new version, Nova. Sign up online.
  • Jan Hamaguichi-Abundo reminded Rotarians that she was having a retreat on Saturday for her officers and committee chairs.
  • The Hilo Chocolate Festival was this Saturday at the Hilo Hotel

 

Happy Dollars—postponed until next week to allow our guest speaker time for her presentation.


Guest Speaker—President Tim asked Andrea Wernli to take the podium and present. Ms Wernli is the Ex.Dir. of HIAC. HIAC is the only adult day care program on the island. It provides kapuna the ability to age in place. 

  • Each attendee receives a personalized care program designed by the HIAC team.
  • Attendance at the program is determined by the kapuna. Some are there everyday others a few times a week or a month.
  • Most importantly, transportation is provided when need.
  • The staff are trained in dementia care techniques, nutrition and activities that support memory, movement and connection.
  • HIAC will train all employees or private caregivers upon acceptance.

HIAC receives a mix of funds from individuals and organization. It’s major fundraising event is the Golf Tournament on July 24th at the Municipal Golf Course. Big mahalo to Art Taniguchi who instituted this event 20 years ago.

For more information on HIAC, go to https://www.hawaiiislandadultcare.org

 

Door Prize Winners: Kathleen Rowden won two wooden bowls hand turned by Richard Cunningham

 

Closing announcements

  1. Next week’s speaker will be Alan Okinaka.
  2. RI Convention in Taipei June 13-20.
  3. D5000 District Conference August 21-23 in Honolulu.
  4. Sister Rotary Club Visit to Japan, May 2027?
  5. Check your emails and the website, hilobayrotary.com, for the latest.
  6. See Lorraine Davis about door prize donations and inspirations. If this is too much for you, split it with another Rotarian.

 

Four Way Test: Tim Hansen

 

Door prizes and Inspirations for May

                Patrick Bodell,                   May 13th

                Bob Juettner                      May 20th

                Mary Begier                       May 27th

You can’t be a door prize winner without door prizes. Lorraine is looking for volunteers for door prizes and inspiration. Her calendar is in need of names and commitments.