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From: Libby Leonard
Sent: Thursday, April 25, 2024 3:22 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony in Support of Allocation of Funding for Kamehameha Day Celebration
Dear Members of the Hawaii County Council,
I'm a resident of North Kohala, who has written about and extensively photographed the Kamehameha
Day Celebration in North Kohala, which is an extremely vibrant and beautiful tradition. I am writing in
strong support of the allocation of funds to ensure that this cherished community tradition remains vital
and impactful.
While I did not grow up here, it is clear that the deep importance of this tradition in the King's birthplace is
so incredibly important in terms of preserving the culture and history for Kohala's current and future
generations, white also fortifying and uniting our beloved community as it comes together to celebrate --
particularly with those who have shared history and roots, some of whose bloodlines still go back
directly to the King.
I strongly encourage you to approve the necessary funds for the Kamehameha Day Celebration in
Kohala. Your support will not only honor Kohala's rich past, but also enrich the lives of current and future
generations in the community.
If you have the time, please view this very movingvideo, which interviews some of the pa'u riders and
chair on the importance of their kuleana and remaining connected to their ali'i on this day. View here.
Mahalo foryour consideration and commitment to preserving the traditions that make Kohala unique.
fCD
Aloha,
�
Libby Leonard
Comm. CEO 7 1z
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