HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPP-21-000227 05.10.23 M. YUEN TESTIMONY 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
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