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From: Koohan Paik-Mander <br /> To: W PCtesti mono <br /> Subject: In support of Axel Kratel"s Agri-tourism Bed&Breakfast <br /> Date: Thursday, March 21, 2024 10:42:41 PM <br /> To whom it may concern: <br /> I have known Axel Kratel for about a decade through my work as a former PONC <br /> commissioner representing Hamakua, and as an advocate of environmental restoration, <br /> agroforestry and food sovereignty. Axel has been a tireless innovator in Hamakua, practicing <br /> local agriculture, agroforestry and soil health for carbon sequestration. <br /> I strongly support Axel's Bed and Breakfast application. His Bed and Breakfast will become a <br /> vital addition to the fabric of agri-tourism in East Hawaii and add much needed economic <br /> stimulation that is also environmentally friendly. <br /> Small family-owned regenerative farms do not enjoy the vast subsidies that industrial, <br /> chemical agriculture firms receive. In Hawaii, farmers have a unique opportunity to <br /> complement their farm income with revenue from overnight guests and other agri-tourism <br /> activities. Providing agri-tourism and bed-and-breakfast opportunities to small farmers are a <br /> way we can support Hawaii's economy,regenerative agriculture and Hawaii's food <br /> sovereignty. <br /> Most small farms in the United States require a secondary income in order to make ends meet <br /> as the income from agricultural activities is usually not enough. Axel's case is no exception. I <br /> urge you to approve of Axel's Bed and Breakfast application so that he can continue his great <br /> environmental stewardship. <br /> Thank you. <br /> Koohan Paik-Mander <br /> In Axel's case, <br /> "If we make no effort to change direction, we will end up where we are heading." <br /> -- Chinese Proverb <br />