It was a royal affair when the Rotary Club of Pago Pago had a changing of the guard at Cecilia’s Restaurant Saturday night.
Incoming President Cherith Lober-Soliai was coronated the Queen of Rotary with a blessing by Archbishop Peter Tinitali. Duties for the Vailima Queen’s Guard were handled by Richard Quintana and Justin Tuiasosopo and the Men In Waiting were Raymond David and McCann Utu. The Royal Decree was read by Danielle King.
Afterward, the new president gave remarks introducing the Rotary theme for the year and announcing the new board:
- Cherith Soliai – President
- Moeroa Hardman – Vice President
- Jackie Hall – Secretary
- Raymond David – Treasurer
- Peter Crispin
- Danielle King
- Leilani Tuamoheloa-Tilo
- Faafua Cummings
- Agnes Polu – Seargeant at Arms
- Katrina Mariner – Immediate Past President
- Frank Barron – Area Governor
Lober-Soliai, the 53rd President of the Rotary Club of Pago Pago, referenced Rotary International’s theme for the year, “Create Hope In The World,” during her coronation speech.
“Our focus for the year will be, first, to have fun doing what we do out in the community,” she said. “If you have a passion for helping others, then you will definitely have fun. Second, look after each other; meaning have respect for your fellow Rotarians and enjoy each other’s company. Then, of course, when we have those two together we can then go out and create hope in the world.”
Outgoing President Katrina Mariner gave farewell remarks and presented gifts to the outgoing board members, including a special trophy for Raymond David as Rotarian of the Year.
Moeroa Hardman received a Service Above Self award for fundraising efforts.
A video and detailed account of the festivities is on the Rotary Club of Pago Pago’s website.
