2025 JCCSC Installation of Officers and Award Luncheon

On Sunday, January 26, the Installation of Officers and Award Luncheon, organized by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Southern California (JCCSC), took place in Montebello.

The JCCSC is a nonprofit organization that supports Japanese businesses in Southern California, promotes social welfare, and fosters U.S.-Japan goodwill activities.

The event began with a moment of silence observed by all attendees in memory of the victims of the wildfire that occurred in January.

15 newly appointed officers took their oaths, pledging their commitment to contributing to the community.
Haruo Takehana, now serving his fifth term as president, addressed the audience of approximately 100 attendees.

Following speeches by distinguished guests, including Kenko Sone, Consul General of Japan in Los Angeles, an awards ceremony was held to honor individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community.

This year’s Nikkei Spirit Award was presented to Mr. George Sugimoto, the founder of an electronics components manufacturer with over 60 years of history.
He has actively supported various volunteer activities within the Japanese American community.

The Community Organization Recognition Award was given to the Okinawa Association of America.
Established in 1909, the association currently has approximately 800 member families and has contributed to the preservation of Okinawan culture and U.S.-Japan goodwill.

2025 Nanka Kenjinkai Kyogikai Officers Installation and Friendship Luncheon

On Sunday, February 9, the Officers Installation and Friendship Luncheon of the Nanka Kenjinkai Kyogikai took place.

Founded in 1964, the Nanka Kenjinkai Kyogikai is a nonprofit organization composed of prefectural associations based in Southern California.
Currently, 37 associations are members, working together to preserve Japanese culture, provide scholarships, and support disaster relief efforts.

The ceremony began with nine newly appointed officers taking their oaths, pledging to serve the community.

This year, Kazue Kitagaito stepped down as president after dedicating efforts to fundraising for the Noto Peninsula earthquake relief.
Kihei Otani has now assumed the role as the new president.

Mr. Otani, originally from Ehime Prefecture, immigrated to the U.S. at the age of four.
While serving as the longtime president of the Ehime Kenjinkai, he has contributed to U.S.-Japan goodwill efforts.
On this day, he delivered his inaugural address before an audience of approximately 160 attendees.

The event also featured congratulatory speeches from distinguished guests, followed by the presentation of appreciation plaques to individuals recognized for their contributions to the community.

The evening concluded with entertainment, including the annual “hometown pride” presentations by various Kenjinkai.
Additionally, a guest from Japan performed a special musical number, bringing a warm and festive close to the gathering.

2025 Asian American Expo

On February 15 and 16, the Asian American Expo was held in Pomona.

This event, which brings together Asian products and businesses, is now in its 43rd year.
With special deals on food and goods, live performances, attractions, and a wide variety of Asian street food, the venue quickly filled with visitors as soon as the doors opened.

Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula also promoted a special campaign where a brand-new home was being given away.
Until May 30, Pechanga Club members who play slot machines or table games and activate their raffle entry every Friday will have a chance to win a newly built home in Temecula.

Additionally, Pechanga announced the reopening of its popular pool area, The Cove, which had been closed for the off-season, just in time for spring.
For more details on the home giveaway campaign and the pool area, visit Pechanga.com.