Kurt Tsuneyoshi
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Kurt Tsuneyoshi (above, center), owner of Platinum Limousines, helped spread some much needed holiday cheer to deserving keiki during the second annual “Rides for Angel.”
“I see so much happiness with the kids in the limos,” Kurt says earnestly. “I know that they may never, ever, ever get a chance to ride in these limos in their lifetime. Just to see them smile and party like a rock star, it’ll be a great memory and something they can dream about.”
More than 500 underprivileged children from organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Honolulu, Make-A-Wish Foundation, New Hope Prison Ministry and HUGS were given tickets based upon their needs. Each family that attended the “Rides for Angels” has a struggle to overcome. He tells of one mother who e-mailed him the next day just to express her gratitude. He says that, in order to salvage some sort of Christmas for her children, she had told them this was their gift from Santa.
“There’s an array of sad situations that just touch my heart,” Kurt expresses. “What made me happy, too, is that I got to see the parents have one break in life and have a relaxing moment. These people, they struggle every day with their kids, and there’s just no breaks. There’s just no luck sometimes.”
No doubt their luck changed, at least for one night, as packed limos traveled around Honolulu for a free Christmas City Lights tour. Each tour lasted approximately 45 minutes, and upon arriving back at Platinum Limousines’Kapahulu location many good boys and girls got to visit and get their photos taken with Santa.
Kurt sends his aloha to the drivers and staff who kept 10 limos running non-stop and looking pristine. He also thanks all the gracious donors who made sure there were enough toys, food and smiles that night. They include Hawaii Pacific Entertainment, Subway Ewa District, Safeway, Hokulani Bake Shop, Ilona Irvine, SHOPO, Pastor Roy of New Hope, the O Lounge, Clear Channel Radio, Sam’s Club and all the anonymous angels.
“The whole community got together to serve one common cause,” says Chad Tsuneyoshi, Kurt’s brother (above left) and the company’s vice president. “It’s our civic responsibility as companies to bless other people with what we’ve been blessed with.”
The Tsuneyoshis (pictured with Ngana Aholelei) plan to continue “Rides for Angels” every year, hopefully carrying it through the holiday season. “It’s not just about one day, it’s the practice of giving back,” Chad says, adding that they make donations throughout the year. “People helped us along the way, and if it hadn’t been for other people helping us out, maybe we would-n’t be in the position we are now.”
To offer support or for great limo service, contact Platinum Limousines at 739-0007.
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