Oct 22nd 2017 O.A.
Grand Opening Ceremony New Torrance District Office
Assemblymember, Al Muratsuchi opened a new office in Torrance on Friday, September 22nd. Since 2012 and being re-elected on 2016’s general election, Assemblymember, Al Muratsuchi represents the 66th district where many Japanese Americans live. Local supporters and city council members attended the opening ceremony. And kagami-biraki, a Japanese sake barrel breaking ritual was also held. The office is on the 4th floor of the building near the Del Amo Fashion Center. Until next November, Muratsuchi will be dealing with many regional topics.
The 30th Southern California Japanese Surfing Contest
October 9th was the annual Southern California Japanese Surfing Contest at the San Clemente Trestles Beach. It started in 1988 and this year is the 30th time for this event. When it started, only 20 people participated but expanded to the largest Japanese American surfing event in the US, where now more than 160 people from grading school kids to adults in their 60s participate. Trestles Beach is one of the beaches in the US known for having good waves where many world tournaments are held. Many organizations signup wishing to hold their events, too. However, due to environmental conservations, it is only allowed to have 6 contests each year. Donating the participation fees and assistant funds from sponsors to state parks, and keeping the beach clean; these long time efforts are perhaps why this tournament can be held at this beach each year. Organizer, Masaki Kobayashi hopes the younger generation continues the event and helps the environment. His son, Shaw, who is a pro surfer also working as a judge in official international contests; also understands his father’s message and commented that he also wants the younger generation to continue this event.