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From: trace epstein <br /> To: LPCtestimonv <br /> Subject: Testimony in support of Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team's request for SP 21-000227 <br /> Date: Wednesday, May 17,2023 11:56:25 AM <br /> Aloha Chair DeFranco and Members of the Commission, <br /> I am writing in strong support of the Kona Aerial Gymnastic Team's request for <br /> Special Permit 21-000227 to ensure that our community will continue to benefit from a <br /> program that has developed our keiki into strong athletes and leaders since I was a <br /> kid here in Kona. <br /> My 7-year-old daughter has been training with Kona Aerials for almost a year and a <br /> half. In that time, I have seen her grow in physical and emotional strength, <br /> independence, and confidence. As one of the newest members of the Kona Aerials <br /> team, she has developed a mental toughness that has translated to other areas of her <br /> life, and she continues to grow in strides in everything she puts her mind to. I am <br /> certain that it is her gymnastics experience that has molded her into the well-rounded <br /> kid she is today and am thankful for the Kona Aerials program for helping her develop <br /> such a strong foundation. <br /> My family and I live on agricultural land about a mile mauka from the gym. We are <br /> strong supporters of the ag lifestyle, and I can say without hesitation that the Kona <br /> Aerials gymnastics facility is in no way incompatible with this area. In fact, this specific <br /> program at this central Kona location with a facility of this size fills a need for West <br /> Hawaii that perhaps no other site could. Kona Aerials has also taken the initiative to <br /> resolve past violations and ensure legal compliance and has continued to <br /> demonstrate its unfettered commitment to this place and the larger community. <br /> Failing to grant this special permit would only serve to interrupt the lives of countless <br /> athletes and their families who rely on these programs to develop the strength and <br /> skills that make our community stronger and better. <br /> I humbly ask that you approve Special Permit No.21-000227 so that Kona families <br /> can continue to enjoy the many benefits that Kona Aerial Gymnastics and the <br /> Nakuwaina Foundation provide. <br /> Mahalo for the opportunity to provide testimony on this important matter. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Tracy Epstein (and `ohana) <br />