SPP-21-000227 05.10.23 M. YUEN TESTIMONY

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County of Hawaii Mingta Yuen Leeward Planning Commission, 78-6808 Kuhinanui St. Chair Vitousek Kailua Kona, HI 96740 101 Pauahi Street, (gag "3 7 2 5a Hilo, HI 96720 Dear Sir/Madam, COH PLANNING Drpr NAY 10 2023 PH2:34 PUBLIC HEARING - KONA AERIALS SPECIAL USE PERMIT#21-000227 I refer to the above and would like to express my thoughts on the subject. My daughter has been a participant of Kona Aerials, under the guidance of Coach Nanette Guiffrida from the ages of three to sixteen (2001-2017). During this time her skill level went from a beginner to Level 9 which is one level short of qualification to be considered for participation at the Olympic level. While taking part at Kona Aerials competitions she and her teammates have represented not only Kona Aerials but also the Big Island itself when they competed on the other islands but more importantly so on the mainland. It was her decision to step down in order to concentrate on her academics. She went on to graduate with a Bachelor Degree of Arts in communications at the University of Hawaii. But it does not end there. She has gone on to contribute to the young lives of pre-school Kindergarten and 1st Grade children by currently teaching at Kokua Academy. Without any prompting from me she recently, amongst many other activities, took it upon herself to participate in the Miss Kona Coffee pageant and was crowned Miss Aloha Hawaii 2023. This achievement requires her to represent Kona at many functions both locally and on Oahu. She is now vying for placement at the Miss Hawaii pageant on Oahu this coming June. Amongst my daughter's Kona Aerials teammates, who are lifelong friends of hers, one has graduated with a Master's Degree and the other is currently in pursuit of the same. All of the aforementioned were, in no small part, infused by their participation with Kona Aerials. Throughout the years of dedication and discipline inspired and instilled by Coach Nanette, she has given children, and continues to do so fervently, the determination, poise, elegance, skills and strength to navigate their lives to what can only be described as "becoming successful' at whatever they choose to do. Kailua Kona has a variety, yet limited, number of resources to enrich the lives, both physically but more importantly so mentally, of our youth when compared to those that reside on the mainland of the United States. Kona Aerials is one such resource and with the above attestation I am personally able to laud the invaluable benefits this activity/sport has contributed to the lives of our children. I understand that the current gymnasts or would be gymnasts but more importantly Kona are facing the possibility of losing this tremendous asset. The parents have in no small way also dedicated their finances and valuable time to make each and every year a success in representing Kona Aerials. I can personally substantiate what they are going through for their Ohana(s). To lose this facility and what it is capable of doing for our children would mean one less opportunity to enrich their lives. I plead and urge you to grant this permit that has been approved every year without obstruction with undue haste. With much Aloha and a sincere Mahalo for your consideration /44