HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0196.004 2024-2026Laysan Unger
14 SE 71" Ave
Portland OR 97215
April 1, 2025
counciltestimonygg,hawaiicoun ov
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair, and members of the committee.
My name is Laysan Unger, I currently live in Portland, Oregon, but I grew up in Waiea and
maintain a strong connection to my hometown. I am on the board of the Kona Historical Society,
and I am testifying today in support of CRF Resolution No. 118.
The Kona Beekeeping Legacy Project is a vibrant multimedia initiative that documents and
celebrates the vital beekeeping industry on Hawai'i Island. The project highlights Kona's essential
role in the global beekeeping industry through a captivating combination of a mini -documentary,
a museum exhibit, and a keiki field trip program. Its mission is to preserve Kona's diverse
agricultural heritage while inspiring future generations of beekeepers and sustainable farmers.
Funding from the County of Hawai'i Contingency Relief Funds will support the documentary co -
produced by Leandra Rouse and renowned photographer and cinematographer Andrew Richard
Hara, a Hilo native. The ten-minute documentary brings Kona's beekeeping history to Life through
stunning views of Kona's picturesque bee yards and a look into the kokua relationship between
beekeepers and landowners. This film is the first -ever professional documentary about Kona's
beekeeping industry.
This documentary is at the heart of a project that, throughout the course of its development and
release, has created jobs in Kona, will educate local keiki, kama`dina, and visitors, and will
preserve vital stories of Kona's history. I strongly believe these are worthy endeavors for the
County of Hawai'i to financially support and are in line with the County's goals.
I encourage you to vote yes on CRF Resolution No. 118
Thank you for this opportunity to testify.
Laysan Unger
97215
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