Eighty-year-olds were celebrated. Kupuna sang and danced. The mayor offered thanks.
“You are our connection to our past,” Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen said at the Older Americans Luncheon at the West Maui Senior Center on Thursday. “You are the folks who remind us of the values and commitment to community that we should aspire to.
“So our thanks is probably not enough to really show our appreciation to all of you.”
The Lahaina-Honolua Senior Citizens Club organized the annual event that drew about 50 members, elected officials, including the mayor, state Sen. Angus McKelvey and Council Member Tasha Kama.
Former Council Members Robert Carroll, who was recognized for turning 80 this year, and Gladys Baisa, whose husband Sherman was honored, also attended the celebration. (Gladys was MEO CEO from 1983 to 2005). Other 80-year-olds honored were Harold Anbe and Brenda Wong.
The five Lahainaluna High winners of $1,000 scholarships from the club were announced. The club has historically funded the scholarships by selling lei at the Baldwin Home Museum.
Na Kupuna O Serenaders entertained attendees with assorted cultural dances and music. Lunch was provided by Old Lahaina Luau.
MEO supports kupuna and their clubs countywide through the Maui Planning & Coordinating Council. For more information about kupuna programs, contact Maui Planning & Coordinating Council Senior Coordinator Zilpah Kaimiola at (808) 243-4313.
Norma Kronkite (center) and Adela Corpuz of Na Kupuna O Serenaders perform the hula at the Older Americans Luncheon on Thursday at the West Maui Senior Center.
Evelyn Toba, Nellie Arcangel and MaryAnn Wu check in attendees.
Gladys Baisa, former council member and MEO CEO, talks about her husband, who was honored for joining the ranks of 80-year-olds.
MEO offered certificates to 80-year-old honorees Robert Carroll (front left) and Sherman Baisa. Shown with them are (back from left) MEO CEO Debbie Cabebe, COO Gay Sibonga and Maui Planning & Coordinating Council Senior Coordinator Zilpah Kaimiola.
About 50 people attended the Lahaina-Honolua Senior Citizens Older Americans Luncheon.
Jozie Ramos of Na Kupuna O Serenaders offers a dance.
Ernie Kronkite performs a hula.
