HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0711.059 2008-2010Yoshimoto, J
From: wak @mui.net
Sent: Wednesday, March 03, 2010 12:29 PM
To: Jyoshimoto@co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Creative way to save the Hawaii County Band
Aloha Mr. Yoshimoto. The local newspaper reported that you were looking at a creative way
to save the Hawaii County Band. I would like to offer a suggestion that I hope you would
consider. Would the county consider a 50% reduction of the band budget to almost pre 2000
fiscal budget until the financial situation of the county improves?
Though unfavorably disproportionate when considering reduction of other divisions, it is
far better than a total elimination of the band. The band would still be able to rehearse
regularly (once a week instead of twice) and honor the veteran's at the cemetery memorial
services and participate in some community events that would have no live music without
the county band such as the Pahoa Christmas Parade, Volcano Fourth of July Parade, Kona
Coffee Festival, and Hilo Community College commencement.
For the children, the band can still be there by continuing to sponsor the annual Big
Island Concert Band Festival which hundreds of Big Island and outer island students
participate. The band can still be there to feature outstanding students and give students
for generations a venue to rehearse and perform with adults and professional musicians.
A reduction of the band budget will reduce the services the band can contribute to our
island, but a total elimination of the band's budget would change a part of our island
heritage forever. Please consider my proposal. Thank you for your consideration.
Wayne Kawakami,
Music educator, musician, former Hawaii County Band director
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