HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0991.004 2016-2018 P/PWPRC..
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Aloha. My name is Nicole Albright. I have been a member of Na Hoa Holomoku since the year
2000. I have enjoyed fellowship with friends new and old at potlucks and weekend sail days
where I enjoy the use of many different sailboats. Now that I have children we all enjoy
weekend sailing. My kids have learned how to be safe on the water and work in a team. Being
on the water is a healthy family activity that we enjoy together.This summer my 11 year old
son was able to take part in sailing camp for two consecutive weeks with a talented instruct4
who came especially to instruct them. Just yesterday he was able to pilot a topper by himseloc-o
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with confidence. �c
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It has been brought to my attention that the sail club is being asked to move their boats (yeto,,
again) and I must ask why? In the time that I have been a part of this amazing club it has beef -T1n
moved to three different locations, the latest being in my opinion the best. The current space,. >rn
to the South of the canoe clubs has bathroom access and shower access at a walk, and easy
beach access. It gives space to the canoe activities and provides shade under the tall trees. Tt __
is also a location which has been host to many transients, people living in cars, and troubling
behavior in the past. The sail club has cleaned up this site and regularly hosts clean-
up/maintenance days to keep the grass down and trash off the beach.
To be frank, Hilo and Puna are quite lacking in activities for our youth, particularly the 12-18
set. Places we once frequented have been closed since May due to lava. Our new community
gym and playground facility and our beloved pool, Pohoiki, Kapoha, green mountain and the
Warm Ponds. We, and many other families find ourselves in Hilo every day for children's
activities. We will be driving to Hilo every afternoon for swim team now Pahoa pool is closed. At
a time when we need more healthy places for our children why is the sail club being asked to
pack up and go?
To my eyes the sail club is a great contributor to this community. It constantly improves the site
it rests upon and offers confidence and autonomy building programs for our youth. In an age
where digital devices lure our youth, outdoor activities are at a premium. As a mother of a pre-
teen I cannot place enough value on this activity which engages my son's interest and provides
him with self-confidence in a circle of friends his own age. Sailing gives him the much needed
autonomy he seeks under safe supervision.
If the many canoe clubs in Hilo are afforded a permanent space on the beach with bathroom
access and parking should this courtesy not be extended to the only sailing club also?
Thank you for your consideration on this matter. I regret I am unable to attend the hearing. I
will be picking up children from school and driving to swim practice at that time. My son has
asked that you know how important to him the sailing club is also.
Regards,
Nicole Albright
808) 938-3846
411.4 Comm.
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