Thursday, December 14th was the Pacific Rim Client Appreciation Dinner held by Bank of the West at Pasadena. Bank of the West is an American bank where their HQ is located in San Francisco, and has over 600 locations mainly in western and central regions. Entrepreneurs that are mainly working in US and Asia were invited to the appreciation dinner, and the bank’s 2018 economic prospect was announced at the conference. Chief Economist, Scott Anderson stated “In 2018, Asia region, especially the developing countries will grow exceeding global trends. On the other hand, China and Japan will grow in a stable cycle.” He also stated that the employment rate for the US will rise and the unemployment rate will decrease even more in the coming year. Head of Pacific Rim Banking Division, Yukinori Nishio stated his new year’s resolution saying “We will continue to work hard in order to overcome issues and matters we shall encounter in countries with different values and cultures for new business opportunities.”
Sharing Is Caring
Meals were served on Monday, December 26th at Torrance for local community individuals and citizens needing for support in their daily lives. This is an annual event held by the American Honda at the local hotel with the salvation army. This year is the 27th time, and long lines were formed outside as volunteer staffs from Honda set up the tables from early morning. About 1000 people participated this year with many of them being a family. Everyone enjoyed their warm turkeys, salads and desserts. This event started when a parent broke into the store ran by the salvation army because they didn’t have any money to buy their kids a Christmas present 27 years ago. Since then, Honda gives back to underprivileged family. Participants took pictures with Santa Clause after their meals. From children to senior, they all spent a warm holiday.
The 86th Hollywood Christmas Parade happened on Sunday, November 25th. And the second nebuta of the LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai “Kintoki” appeared in it. The LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai started making this “Kintoki” in October with 6 members including nebuta creator, Hiroh Takenami. It is the 3rd year for the LA Nebuta to participate in this parade. Kintoki made its debut to the public this day. The Hollywood Christmas Parade features Hollywood celebrities and characters, so it is nationally known. This year, 130 people joined the Nebuta team with the Japan Aomori Nebuta staff and the cheering groups. The nebuta walked the 3mile road, accompanied by dancers and music. And excited the crowd filling the street of Hollywood. This year marks the 10th anniversary since the nebuta was introduced in LA. Bonds were formed within those years, wishing to spread the Japanese tradition in the US.
The Emperor’s birthday celebration
December 5th was the Emperor’s birthday celebration at the official residence of the Consulate General of Japan in LA. The Emperor of Japan will become 84 years old on December 23rd. The Emperor’s birthday is a national holiday in Japan, and a party is held at each embassy throughout the world as local representatives are invited. 450 people were invited at the official residence of Consul General in LA. Representatives of Japanese American organizations to well-known individuals, and city, government related individuals joined the party. After the speech, each city and state representatives presented a letter of appreciation to Consul General Chiba, celebrating the friendship between Japan and the US. At the reception, a tea ceremony by the Urasenke were performed. And many Japanese foods were served with local specialities and sake.
Japan House Los Angeles Shop
A shop in Japan House LA of Hollywood Highland opened on December 20th. Japan House is a facility that aims to spread Japanese culture and technologies to the US, and will complete around next Summer. This shop is the first service that opened up. This shop sells beautiful Japan made utility and general goods, where you can see the Japanese traditional craftsmanship. A gallery will open on January 19th and the Japanese brand, ANREALAGE will hold an exhibition.
An update event was held on November 28th at the Little Tokyo’s JANM. Japan House is a project that the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs started and built in the cities of: LA, London and San Paulo. Its mission is to strengthen the distribution of Japanese culture and technologies to the world. President Yuko Kaifu announced the newest facility currently in construction at Hollywood and Highland, and explained the upcoming programs. Japan House LA has a gallery on the 2nd floor and a Japanese restaurant and library on the 5th floor. The interior has a delicate yet playful Japanese design. A shop with Japanese goods opened on December 20th on the 2nd floor. The exhibition of ANREALAGE, a Japanese fashion brand with the concept of “Art & innovation” will be held starting in January at the gallery. The entire facility will be open next Summer.
Shohei Otani joins the LA Angels
It is now official Shohei Otani is joining the LA Angels. More than 1000 local fans appeared at his press conference on December 9th. Otani has been negotiating with various teams as he desired to move onto the MLB from his team in Japan, Nippon Ham Fighters. It is now official that he agreed to join the LA Angels the day before the conference. The reason why he picked the LA Angels is because “We had good vibes going on” according to him. Otani is known as the “Two-way Player” since he can both pitch and hit. He made history in Japanese baseball as he is the only player who is chosen in the Best 9 for both pitcher and designated hitter as Nippon Ham Fighters won the Japan Series in 2016. Coach Scioscia commented “I have high hopes for his playing style of course, but his growth emotionally and physically since he is still young.” Otani will start his career in major league next February at the Spring raining held in Arizona.
LA Auto Show Part 2
LA Auto Show happened on December 1st through the 10th at the LA Convention Center in Downtown LA. More than 1,000 cars including the newest models were announced by over 50 car makers. Mazda had their newest model, Mazda6 make its world debut. A drastic improvement was made for the exterior and interior. SKYACTIV-G 2.5T direct-injection turbocharged gasoline engine is used for the engine, and the Mazda Radar Cruise Control is used for a more safer drive. Honda announced 3 cars. Starting with their fully remodeled 2018 Honda Accord; the Honda CLARITY FUEL CELL, which received the Green Car of the Year; and the derived models, the PLUG-IN HYBRID and the ELECTRIC. The attendees enjoyed the auto show through virtual reality and seeing specially made models as well.
The LA Auto Show was held from December 1st till 10th at Downtown, and many cars were displayed. Toyota announced the concept car for their FT-AC as this year marks their 60th anniversary in the US. FT-AC is the abbreviation for Future Toyota Adventure Concept. It is an SUV in which customers can thoroughly enjoy the outdoors as the name suggests “Futuristic adventures.” They have selected Prospect Green for the car. The wide front grille and LED fog lights are very attractive. The LED fog lights are detachable and can be useful for the outdoors. Customers can enjoy an even more powerful off road experience with a 20-inch wheels and wide fenders. Compact cameras are built in the side view mirrors and they are also detachable. The FT-AC allows Wi-fi connection so customers can upload movies they took on the camera to the Cloud system as well as live streamings. The bike rack calls attention on the back. It is retractable and be able to carry mountain bikes as needed. Cargo rack is attached on the top so customers can carry various equipments. The LED lights are changeable through mobile apps and the lights are used as the flash for the compact cameras. This day was also the world premiere for the Lexus RX350L. This model is made with a longer RX model, which is the main model of the luxurious Lexus cars, and has a third seat. The third seat can become flat when it is not in use. RX 450hL is thier Hybrid model and will be available in the US next year. We will bring more details of the LA Auto Show next week as well.
The annual year‐end charity campaign
The annual year‐end charity campaign had begun. This event is held by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of SoCal and 7 organizations like: OCJAA, Nanka Nikkei Fujinkai and the SoCal Showa Kai joined. They are calling for donations in front of the Japanese supermarkets at LA and OC district. The Kick Off Ceremony was held on the first day, Saturday, December 2nd at the Little Tokyo Village Plaza. Consul General, Akira Chiba and representatives of the organizations attended the event. The charity started with Counsil Chiba’s donation. The Nisei Queen and her court participated this day, and waved to the people. The donations collected here will be sent to the LA/OC Regional Food Banks, and will be used for seniors and low income families. 1 in 8 workers in SoCal cannot have a decent meal even if they are employed. We are holding this charity event because we can give out 4 meals per dollar, so we hope to support those individuals. The year‐end charity campaign will also be held next Saturday and Sunday.
Sunday, November 19th was a kimono class at the Shoseian, located inside Glendale’s Brand Park. This event was held by Glendale and Friends of Shoseian. Varieties of cultural classes are held every month at this tea ceremony room. The Nadeshiko Organization participated this time to spread the kimono culture. This class concentrated on kimonos for adults, and kimono demonstrations were done by 2 former Miss Hanagasa winners as models. The participants had the opportunity of actually wearing the kimono and experienced the Japanese culture. The Shoseian was found in 1974 celebrating the friendship between the city of Glendale and Higashiosaka, Japan. Lately, the tea ceremony has aged so the local volunteer group, Friends of Shoseian are calling for donations to the repairing fee. 20 people participated in this event They enjoyed the Japanese culture while helping out the fundraiser.
LA Nebuta Part 1
“Kintoki” the second Nebuta the LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai made, participated in this year’s Hollywood Christmas Parade. “Nebuta” always lives up the summer Nisei Week Festival and the winter Hollywood Christmas Parade. This nebuta was made this October, taking 3 weeks in making. It was made by the nebuta maker from Aomori, Hiroh Takenami and 6 other craftsmen of LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai. The model of this nebuta is the great warrior, Kintoki Sakata known in old Japanese fairy tales as “Kintaro”. His bravery and the koi depicts a bright future for the nebuta culture. LA Nebuta Bayashi Hozonkai was formed after the nebuta of Takeda Shingen was made in 2007. The heart of wanting to spread the Japanese nebuta making in the US reached the mainstream of Aomori, Japan. Since then, the craftsmen of the two countries have deepened their friendships. A celebration happened on November 25th at the Little Tokyo’s Nanka Aomori Kenjinkaikan to congratulate the nebuta appearing in the Hollywood Christmas Parade. Cheer groups from all over Japan attended this celebration and united everyone together. The next morning, the truck carrying the “Kintoki” drove to the Hollywood Christmas Parade.
Sunday, November 5th was the Sushi & Sake Festival at Little Tokyo. This event was held by the Japanese Restaurant Association of America and is for the public. 25 food related companies participated and introduced the latest trend of Japanese food. Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii stated his congratulations at the opening ceremony, and the industry individuals did the sake barrel breaking. This year is the 18th time for this all you can eat and drink event, and 850 people attended. At the sake booth, Sho-Chiku-Bai, Gekkeikan and other sakes by the brewers were introduced. Sushi, ramen, udon, oden, takoyaki and varieties of food were served at the food booth. Filleting demonstration of the giant Spain tuna also happened, and the sushi eating contest winner received the prize from Akira Yuhara, President of JRA. The JRA is formed by the Japanese food manufacturers in US, and they annually hold this event to spread real Japanese food.
American Film Market
November 1st to 8th was the American Film Market at Santa Monica. AMF is an expo for the film industry where studios and film distributing agencies from over 80 countries throughout the world participate. They make over $100 billion revenue each year. 445 companies participated this year. Buyers and distributors exchanged information about the films through premieres and on-demand previews, and discussed business opportunities. In recent years, the Asian market like China, Korea and India have been expanding and JETRO also participated as the Japan booth. 12 Japanese companies participated to sell their films. Popcorn tastings were also held to promote Japanese culture, and Japanese flavored popcorns were served, like matcha green tea flavors. This year, Japan Film Commission, a nonprofit organization that coordinates film shooting location participated. They promoted Japan from the standpoint of film shoots. A summit and workshop by the well known film studios and distributors were also held. 7400 people attended this 8 day long event.
Friday, November 3rd was the premiere at Downtown LA, of the anime currently making a great trend. That is the “Fate/stay night Heaven’s Feel Part 1” distributed by Aniplex USA and AZOLAND PICTURES. The Fate series launched in 2004 as a visual novel style game. It now expands to TV anime series, manga and movie. This is their second animation film. It is a trilogy and this is the part 1. It premiered in Japan on October 14th and since then, it marks a great hit at their box office. The Fate series are also very popular between the American audience, and more than 1600 tickets were sold at this event. Long lines were formed for the movie. At the red carpet, American voice actors; as well as Director, Tomonori Sudo and Noriko Shitaya who starred as the main character in the film appeared. The film depicts the story centering around the main characters, Shiro Emiya and Sakura Mato; how they get involved in the battle between mages for the Holy Grail that shall grant any wish. At the event, there was a panel discussion with the creators and merchandises were also sold. Fans enjoyed the event.
Shichi-go-san
Sunday, November 12th was the “Shichi-go-san” event at the temples in Little Tokyo. The Shichi-go-san (7,5,3) is a cultural event in Japan. It is also an annual event here in Little Tokyo during this time of the year. Here at the Zenshuji Temple, many children that are 3, 5 and 7 years old dressed up and gathered. Chief Priest, Shumyo Kojima recited the sutural and wished for each children’s healthy living to the Gods. Many children also gathered at Koyasan Buddhist Temple, too. Families, about 300 people paid their visits. Rev. Jukun Imamura recited the sutra and Gomataki fire burning was held. Lastly, the kids were given Chitose-ame candies and took a photo. The families spent a memorable day.
Japan-Korea Family Gathering & Seminar was held on Sunday, October 29th. This event was held by the FS Lutheran Community to support the Japanese and Korean households. At the event, Congressman, Al Muratsuchi did the keynote speech. Followed by Consul, Shigeru Kimura and Seung Keol Oh stated their congratulations. This event was planned by Minister Hongsun Kim of the Lutheran community. Minister Kim has been active to bond both communities from growing up in both Japanese and Korean communities. Minister Kim decided to hold this event to strengthen the bonds of two communities by providing an opportunity to think what kind of supports are needed for children that grow up in both communities. Therapist, Carol Sim was invited to lecture about the necessary skills for forming healthy identity and how to utilize multilanguage.
Japanese Community Pioneer Center Open House
On Monday, October 30th, the Japanese Community Pioneer Center held an open house at JACCC. The JCPC is a nonprofit organization founded in 1969. They provide services for Japanese speaking seniors with cultural education programs and social welfares. The newly renovated multi-purpose room that finished in June was shown, and various activities the different classes offer was introduced. At the cultural class, haiku, tanka, senryu poems; Japanese flower arrangements; sashiko stitching and Japanese folksongs are offered. Also, photo classes and citizenship seminars and other 22 classes are offered. The annual fee is $30, also allowing members to rent the facility at a low cost. The staff of JCPC are all volunteers and their funds are supported by donations. They are planning to increase the numbers of staff due to the aging community, and expand their services to pensions and health insurances as well.
Saturday, October 21st was a seminar of the “Iyashi Care” program in Yamaha Music Center in Irvine. This seminar was organized by the nonprofit organization, Keiro that provides nursing care and welfare to elderly Japanese Americans. At the seminar, a lecture about palliative care was held. It is said there are currently 70,000 Japanese Americans over 65 years old in LA, OC and Ventura county. 97 percent answered they wish to live in their homes and receive in-home care. And many of them are facing language barriers, issues in lacking health care and supporting services. Facing these issues, Keiro decided to partner up with Providence Health & Service Southern California for the next 3 years. They specialize in the palliative care field, and Keiro started their palliative care under the name of “Iyashi Care” from August of this year. At the lecture, Dr. Yuichi Yanami of PH&SSC spoke as a guest speaker, explaining the difference between palliative care and hospice care to the attendees. Dr. Yanami explained palliative care using the term “The hiatus of health care.” This is when a patient is unsure where to consult their physical condition and health problems to. Palliative care betters patient’s lives by providing a solution to this issue and also provides “Iyashi” to them as well. The “Iyashi Care” program offers telephone consultations, home visits if necessary and counseling services for free by Dr. Yanami and Dr. Komatsu.
Kansui-Ryu America Kinyu Ginshi-Kai
Sunday, October 22nd was the autumn recital of the Kansui-Ryu America Kinyu Ginshi-Kai in Torrance. The club was founded in 1930 by the Kayamoto Kansui Shi. They have 24 branches throughout California and 8 are in SoCal with 70 members. The SoCal area holds an annual recital. At the event, 45 members, from beginners to masters, performed and did their best. Shigin poetry is a traditional Japanese entertainment that started in the late Edo period, where they recite classical Chinese poetry with unique melody and singing style. It was loved by the Japanese people since the prewar days. The Nagauta Minori-Kai, a group also active in SoCal; Tsugaru Shamisen Sasaki Mitsuru-Kai and Satsuma Biwa Tsuruta Ryu also joined this recital.
An event for spreading knowledge and understandings towards disability was held at The Alhambra on Sunday, October 15th. This first time event was held by APIDC, an active organization for the Asia-Pacific region disabled individuals. APIDC is a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 and has been active to spread knowledge towards disability for the people of Asia-Pacific region, since people tend to hide their own disabilities feeling ashamed of it. 40 education and welfare related organizations participated and socialized with disabled individuals and their families. At the student booth, attendees learned daily problems the disabled individuals face through games and recreations. At the education booth, rare documents explaining the disabilities of celebrities were displayed. The programs were planned by the graduates of APIDC’s Youth Leadership Institute.
Japanese Classic Car Show
Saturday, September 23rd was the gathering of the Japanese Classic Car Show Association at the Long Beach Queen Mary. 400 Japanese classic cars made before the year 1985 were displayed. The cars were brought in by the manufacturers and attendees. Classics like the Mazda Cosmos Sport and RX7 were displayed at the Mazda booth since this year marks the 50th anniversary of the rotary engine. At the Honda booth, the first Honda sold in America, N600 and rare light pickups, T500 were displayed. Fans not only love the performance but also the unique designs of the Japanese classic cars. Despite the maintenance fees, many owners still wish to ride them because of the values Japanese classic cars have. This event originally started just between small number of fans, but it gradually expanded since the popularity of Japanese classic cars grew and this year is the 13th time.
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.
The 25th anniversary ceremony for Nishiyamato Academy of California
The 25th anniversary ceremony for the Japanese school, Nishiyamato Academy of California located in the city of Lomita was held on Friday, September 22nd. Nishiyamato started in 1992 with its main campus located in Nara, Japan. It is the only full-time Japanese school in west coast that is officially recognized by the MEXT of Japan. Students and parents; House of Representatives, Al Muratsuchi; Lomita mayor and local community members attended the ceremony. Chairman and founder, Ryotaro Tanose who attended from Japan stated “The reason why this school was able to overcome many obstacles is all thanks to the school staff and supporters.” Celebrating their 25th anniversary, Innovation Culture Center that is currently under construction, was revealed to the attendees. After the construction is completed, the facility will be used as a student library, media center and a gathering spot for the local community members. Student speeches and koto music performance, as well as choir sung by the entire students were performed at this ceremony and celebrated the school’s 25th anniversary.
Rhamnan health seminar
Friday, September 29th was Rhamnan health seminar in Gardena. This seminar was held by the health product manufacturer, KONAN USA. Guest from Japan, Koji Suzuki Ph.D. of Suzuka University of Medical Science also did a lecture. Suzuki Ph.D. specializes in thrombosis research and talked about the effects the rhamnan sulfate – a component from green seaweed, has on the human body. Rhamnan sulfate is mainly contained in aosa seaweeds, an ingredient in Mie prefecture that is used in dishes like miso soups. According to Suzuki Ph.D., the rhamnan sulfate controls blood clots, prevents strokes and coronary thrombosis. It also has potentials of improving lifestyle diseases. The aosa seaweed has many microscopic cells shaped like konbu kelps. There are multiple ingredients in between those cells, and rhamnan sulfate is one of them. We hope consumers can get the positive effects of the aosa seaweed by consuming health products that contain condensed and concentrated rhamnan sulfates. Q&A session was held after the lecture, and a mini concert by the community choir group entertained the attendees.
The 29th Japanese Food & Restaurant Expo was held at Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, September 30th. This expo is held by the Mutual Trading for restaurant business individuals. This expo introduces the latest trend of Japanese food. 126 companies and 2,700 attendees participated this year making it the highest number in its history. Lately, Japanese food in the US have split into 2 categories of haute and popular food. Miyazaki Beef and Ultra-low Temperature Refrigeration Technology (ULTS), which makes it possible keeping the seafood quality for those haute Japanese restaurants. New products of the popular ramen, karaage and gyoza were also introduced. Mutual Trading concentrated on “curry” this year to widen the range of popular Japanese food. Seminars were held to share the knowledge of Japanese curry, too. At the Sake Pavilion, local distilled beverages, shochu, and local beers were served and introduced. At a restaurant, local sake that is worth more than $1,000 was introduced as well. Kitchen knives were also sold. The eating utensils, which are always popular and sells out. Attendees enjoyed the event.
The Senior Citizen Appreciation Day Luncheon
Sunday, September 24th was the Senior Citizen Appreciation Day Luncheon at the OC Buddhist Church in Anaheim, awarding seniors that are 80 years old and above. This event is annually held by the OC Japanese American Association to show appreciation by awarding the individuals that have contributed and built the local Japanese American community. About 300 people including the recipients that are all 80 years old and above, and their families as well as guests. President, Kimiko Fujita stated at her greeting, “Seeing the active seniors who are 80, 90 years old makes me want to continue to work hard and thrive.” The award ceremony was held for 17 seniors participating for the first time, and President Fujita handed each of them a letter of appreciation. Also, the two grantees of the Nerio Japanese Cultural Scholarship, who succeeds the Japanese culture, was announced. Scholarship winner, Naoki Atkins performed his Tsugaru Shamisen and the OC Doyo Kids Club sung nursery songs at the event as well.
The 2nd Annual Service in Japan Alumni Reception honoring the Japanese and US veterans and their families, was held on Thursday, September 7th at the official residence of the Consul General of Japan in LA. There are over 10 thousand US military related individuals and their family members, including civilian employees of the army residing in Japan. This is the 2nd time for this reception party held by the Consulate General of Japan in LA. Military personels that once resided in Japan were invited, as it was aimed to strengthen interests and continue the friendship bonds between the two countries even when they shall return home to the US. About 100 individuals from current on-duty, first reserved to veterans attended. They introduced themselves and spoke about their experience in Japan and socialized with one another. At the opening greeting, Consul General, Akira Chiba stated “We are still very grateful about the Operation Tomodachi that happened back in the year 2011 during the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake. And also stated “The bond we currently have will be essential when facing the current tense situation of the Asia Pacific Ocean region.” Responding to this statement, a guest speaker from the US Navy stated “We wish to keep and continue having the strong US/Japan friendship even in these difficult times.” Each person stated their feelings as well. At the event, Japan’s must see places and a model of the Japan House that will be opening at Hollywood was introduced. Japanese foods were also served, like the local sakes, sushi, takoyaki and food menus from the Naha Air Base Curry. Attendees also enjoyed Japanese culture through performances by the Minyo Station and Ryukyu Matsuri Taiko.
California Coastal Cleanup Day
Every 3rd Saturday of September is the worldwide Coastal Cleanup Day. Local volunteers also gathered up on beaches on Saturday, September 16th to clean their beaches with their bear hands. City of Torrance, Torrance Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the American Honda cooperated for the cleanup of this Torrance Beach. Pariticipants brought buckets and small to large trashbags as they thoroughly cleaned the 1.5 mile long beach.
North America’s largest Japanese anime film festival, LA Anime Film Festival happened for 3 days from September 15th at Downtown LA. This event was made possible by the Rydgen Inc. and the cooperation of the film distributor, Azoland Pictures.20 titles were shown including new titles that had their North American premiere and classic titles that received high reviews overseas.This year is the 100th anniversary since anime was first produced in Japan, so one of its first anime film was also shown. On its first day, one of the main events of this festival, the premiere of the English dubbed anime movie “No Game No Life Zero” was shown. VIP guests and English voice actors were invited. “No Game No Life Zero” is an anime film based on a popular TV series where the main character battles in a fantasy world where “Everything is decided through games.” This is the first time being shown in the states as it will be introduced in theaters all over the US in October. About 6,000 people attended to this 3 day event. Q&A session with the creators were also held and fans enjoyed the Japanese anime.
A Luncheon of Senior Citizen’s Day at Sakura Gardens
A luncheon happened on Friday, September 8th at Sakura Gardens in Boyle Heights to celebrate Senior Citizen’s Day. Every 3rd Monday of September is Senior Citizen’s Day in Japan. To celebrate the elders’ hard work towards our society, a luncheon was held at Sakura Gardens as well.
Regional VP of Operations for the Northstar Senior Living, John Peters commented “We are very grateful to our powerful seniors for teaching us something new everyday.” Lunch menu included: sashimi, black cod and red-white buns with bean paste fillings. that provides care for the Japanese American seniors and volunteers made this event possible. Currently, 128 residents live in Sakura Garden and 50 residents are over 90 years old. Each names were called at the awarding ceremony and gifts were handed to them. 3 people were the eldest being 98 years old. After lunch, enka ballad songs and Japanese dances were performed. Choir group by the Sakura Gardens residents, “Baachans” energetically performed 4 songs like “The Bear Song” and “Beautiful Spring.”
