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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0711.097 2008-2010Yoshimoto, J From: DM Wong [dmwong @hawaii.rr.com] Sent: Sunday, March 07, 2010 8:27 AM To: DM Wong Subject: Hawaii County Band The Department of Parks and Recreation has decided not to fund the Hawaii County Band next fiscal year which means the band will cease operations on June 30, 2010. The band has served the island of Hawaii with loyalty and pride since 1883 as a part of the Hawaiian Monarchy, the Republic of Hawaii, the Territory of Hawaii, and the State of Hawaii. Thus, the Hawaii County Band is the oldest entity in the county government and is being eliminated because of the budget.. I am urging you to not allow this to happen by finding a way t� fund the . band. The band's budget is ONLY 1.3% of the Parks and Recreation total budget which means the band's budget is very, very small in the total budget of the County of Hawaii. What is really disturbing was that P &R Assistant Director Honma admitted that furloughs or pay cuts weren't even considered. .The Hawaii County Band was founded in 1883 by Joaquin and Jules Carvalho, who were Portuguese immigrants and originally named the band the Hilo Portuguese Band. Later the group was known as the Hilo Band and following the overthrow of the monarchy, the Hawaii County Band. The Hawaii County Band provides live and appropriate music at parades, ceremonies, community events and concerts. The band services the entire county and proudly represents the government of the County of Hawaii. For 127 years, the Hawaii County Band has been a contributor to the rich, cultural heritage of Hawaii. In today's complex society, we need, more than ever, the diversion and therapy of music. Please do not let it end now — let the band play on. We need the Hawaii County Band. Thank you. Sincerely, DM Wong 3/8/2010 0 00 Page 1 of 1 Coma t'to. Ref. To: Ref. Dote MAR 2 2 2 g