HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0327.006 2012-2014 COUNTY CLERK
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July 8, 2013
2013 JUL 10 P11 2: 4 8
Mr. J. Yoshimoto
Hawaii County Council
25 Aupuni St
Hilo, Hi 96720
Subject: Confirmation of Duane Kanuha as Planning Director
Dear Mr. Yoshimoto,
I am submitting this testimony in support of the appointment of Mr. Duane Kanuha as Planning
Director.
Although I had no direct contact with Mr. Kanuha he had a major impact in allowing our family
to cultivate taro on land that was previously occupied by my mother and her family. We could
feel the ancestors support in the taro farm especially when we found an "o'o" embedded in the
trunk of a kukui nut tree (our elders use to hide their tools that way).
Our taro patch also brought together underprivileged teens who came to help and left with a
feeling that they were special individuals.They were so appreciative of being able to spend the
time to reflect and each person left us with a message of feeling the "Mana".
We also made poi and gave to babies that couldn't eat anything else.
My daughter is now attempting to keep up with the taro farming and restore it to it's original
farm. It is hard work but we get great satisfaction when we harvest and supply the family with
taro and poi for consumption. She is the fourth generation that will cultivate taro on that land
and we hope to continue with many more generations to come.
We support your appointment of Mr. Duane Kanuha as Planning Director,wholeheartedly as he
is fully qualified for the position. With all his experience and expertise he will be an asset to
you and the County of Hawaii.
Sincerely,
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Esteban Rabang Jr.
Comm. No. 32 7•
Ref. To:
Ref. Dote 0 2013
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