THE WATSONVILLE-SANTA CRUZ JACL

Newsletter May 2016 

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Date: Sunday, May 1, 2016 Time: 6:30 PM, Doors open at 6 PM. Place: Room 450 (Forum Building – upper campus), Cabrillo College, 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003 Admission and parking are free.

Forum topics will include: A primer on Islam and Islamphobia. When racist rhetoric had disastrous results for the

Chinese, Mexicans, Filipinos and Japanese. Few Americans stood up to defend those targeted.

Maybe this time? Formulating an action plan for the present and

future.

Background: Recognizing the distressing historical similarities between the present-day scapegoating of Muslims, Mexicans and immigrants in general, the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Chapter of the National Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the History Department of Cabrillo Community College, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), and the Islamic Network Group (ING) will host a timely and appropriate discussion about Islamophobia and how it relates to our community. It is hoped that the event will start a community-wide conversation about how we might respond personally and as a community.

The American historical landscape is littered with examples of peoples and religions being targeted by some Americans who somehow felt threatened. Some of these groups have included but are not limited to African-Americans, Irish, Jews, Chinese, Japanese, Filipinos, Mexicans, et al. More often than not, the wider American public in the past has just watched silently as communities different than their own were targeted. The ultimate example occurred in the 1942 when the entire Japanese community living along the west coast was vilified and eventually imprisoned for the acts of Imperial Japan. Very few non-Japanese protested as they were taken away. The present-day scapegoating of Muslims and Mexicans is very familiar to the Japanese-American community, and it hopes to work collaboratively

with the rest of the community to head off a repeat of its incarceration concentration camp experience of World War II; it must never be allowed to happen again to anyone.

Project: The evening will include a short primer of Islam and Islamophobia and feature the showing of David Washburn’s documentary film, An American Mosque, that tells of the 1994 destruction of a mosque by an arson fire in Yuba City, CA and the way that the non-Muslim community rallied to support its rebuilding. The film was shown nationally on PBS in 2014, and, given the current national anti-Muslim climate, we believe that the film is a timely starting- point for a discussion about how we might approach our own community’s future. David Washburn will be present to discuss the background of the film and his experiences showing it to communities all across the United States.

Representatives of several regional Muslim organizations will join us in addressing ways that we might proceed to help to create a climate of compassion and trust in our community.

We urge you to attend and add your presence and voice to this effort. This non-partisan event is not affiliated or supported by any particular political party.

For more information, please contact Paul Kaneko of the Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL at 831-476-7040. TELLING “THE JAPANESE AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: THE INCARCERATION” STORY Among those included in this 2016 “speaking season” were (not a complete list): Jan 20 History Forum, Museum of Art and History Feb 4 Aptos High School March 1 UCSC retired employees association March 3 Impact Academy (HS), Hayward, CA March 4 Watsonville High School March 8 SIRs (Sons in Retirement) Watsonville March 9 Ann Sobrato High School, Morgan Hill March 10 Notre Dame 8th grade, Watsonville March 11 Harbor High (one class) March 14 Watsonville High (two classes) March 22-23 Harbor High (two classes) March 31 Museum of San Ramon Valley April 26 Harbor High (limited English proficient students) May16 Gateway School, 5th graders, Santa Cruz At Moreland Notre Dame, each student was to ask ten adults of varying ages if they knew anything about our incarceration. A majority replied, “No.” We must continue our work so that the unjust incarceration never happens again to anyone or any group.

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Impact Academy of Hayward. Photo by Marcia Hashimoto.

Museum of the San Ramon Valley presents “The Art of Survival, Ending the Turmoil of Tule Lake,” an exhibit of the Japanese American incarceration of World War II. This exhibit which features artifacts from camp, the living conditions of camp, the valor of the 100th/442nd/MIS soldiers, and a DVD of Amache, CO camp is open now to the 15th of May, 2016. It is extremely well-done, and those in the Bay Area should visit it with their children and grandchildren. This museum is located at 2015 Railroad Avenue, Danville, CA and is open from 1-4 pm Tuesday to Friday; 10

am to 1 pm on Saturday; and noon to 3 pm on Sunday. Call (925) 837-3750, or click: museumsrv.org.

Mas Hashimoto made his PowerPoint presentation to nearly 100 adults on the evening of Thursday, March 31 at the neighboring Danville Community Center. Above photo, courtesy of Tomoko Ha. On April 14, there was a presentation by Marty Laurie and Kerry Yo Nakagawa on “Baseball and its Impact on America During WW II, and on April 21, a presentation by Shirley Muramoto-Wong on “Hidden Legacy,” of the rich cultural arts and heritage shared by those incarcerated. On Friday, May 6, at 7 pm “Survival with Dignity” with a special celebration of life in camp told with music, poetry, film, and conversations with renowned Nisei army veterans will be held at the Danville Library. We are grateful to Daniel Dunn of the Museum of San Ramon Valley and all those responsible for calling attention to our story of incarceration during WW II.

Mas Hashimoto presented National JACL’s Japanese American Experience reference guide to high school senior Stephanie Martinez and Vice-Principal Vicky Tarumoto-Wallace, Impact Academy of Hayward, CA. SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER (SPLC) The Confederacy is alive and well. That’s the finding of a new SPLC report that identifies symbols of the Confederacy across the country, many of them put in place during the early decades of Jim Crow or during the civil rights movement. The report – Whose Heritage? Public Symbols of the Confederacy – catalogs 1,503 examples of monuments and statues; flags; city, county and school names; lakes, dams and other public works; state holidays; and other symbols that honor the Confederacy.

 

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"It means so much that President Obama will be joining us at this year's APAICS Gala," said Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA), chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus and APAICS board member. "Whether keeping families together through his immigration executive actions, expanding healthcare to millions through the Affordable Care Act, promoting diverse candidates to the federal bench, or putting our economy back on the path to success, President Obama has been there for the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. We look forward to thanking the President for his leadership and honoring his legacy at this year's gala, and welcome the opportunity to celebrate with him in May."

The APAICS Annual Awards Gala Dinner is the premier event in Washington celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) stakeholders, community and business leaders, and the largest gathering of AAPI local, state and federal elected officials and appointees from across the country.

"It is an honor to have President Barack Obama participate in the 22nd Annual APAICS Awards Gala Dinner and share his legacy with the Asian American and Pacific Islander community," said S. Floyd Mori, President and CEO of APAICS. "President Obama has demonstrated his commitment to the AAPI community and shares our determination in developing future opportunities for AAPI leaders."

The evening program recognizes individuals and organizations for their contributions to the empowerment and advancement of Asian American and Pacific Islander community. The 2016 honorees are Congressman Xavier Becerra--Lifetime Achievement Award; Aziz Ansari & Alan Yang--Vision Award; and Toyota--Corporate Achievement Award.

Media coverage space is limited. All media will have to register to be considered for credentials. Please contact Kelsey Crow -- kcrow@veng-group.com. SENIOR CENTER NEWS By Jo Ann Vear There have been some fun activities for the Seniors to attend this past month. There was a flapjack breakfast at Applebee’s Restaurant on April 17 to raise money for our sister city -- Kawakami, Japan. On April 24 the Watsonville Bonsai Club held their 43rd Bonsai Exhibit at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple. Thirty-nine seniors and friends spent the day at Table Mountain Casino on March 29. Goodies on the long bus ride were provided by Alice Misumi, Rubie Kawamoto, Jon and Alice Drier, Toshi Yamashita, Jackie Yamashita, Kazuko Sakai, Eiko Nishihara, Yoshiko Nishihara, Kimi Kimura, Fumi Tanimasa, Cindy and Gary Mine, Edna Nagata, Yaeko Cross, Jean Akiyama, and Jean Yamashita. We thank you all for keeping us well fed! Thanks to big winner Sunao Honda who paid the bus driver’s tip with his winnings. Thursday, April 7 was Hanamatsuri at the Senior Center. Reverend Shousei Hanayama gave greetings from the Watsonville Buddhist Temple and explained that Hanamatsuri is a celebration of Buddha’s birth. He encouraged each of us to live each day fully as one never knows what might happen in the future. The Buddhist

Women’s Association donated a beautiful cake and twelve of the 28 seniors 90 years of age or over, cut the cake. Each of our 90+ seniors was given a beautiful plant.

Rev. Hanayama then led the BWA members in singing the Hanamatsuri song using a small “boom” box.

Seniors over 90 at Hanamatsuri: Haruko Yoshii 98, Miye Yamashita 98, Mitzi Katsuyama 95, Tea Hashimoto 95, Fred Oda 92, Chiyeko Shikuma 91, Haru Ishibashi 90, Kimiyo Fujii 90, Satoko Yamamoto 90. Seated: Michi Hamada 94 and Mitsue Tao 92. Photos by Carol Kaneko. After many games of bingo, we enjoyed a delicious obento dinner from Sushi Gardens. June Honda made a beautiful “stained glass” Jell-O for dessert. Guests from the BWA were Kiiko Akiyama, Ryoko Suruki, Riiko Yoshida, Aiko Nitao, and Keiko Hanayama. Thank you to all who helped with toban this past month: Judy Hane, Jo Ann Vear, Gail Wurtenberg and, of course, always June Honda and Jean Yamashita. Monetary donations were received from: Janice Tao, BWA, The Russell Family Foundation through Henry Izumizaki, and Hisako Uemura. Thank you very much. Paul Kaneko announced a special event forum entitled, “Toward a More Perfect Union: Overcoming Islamophobia,” to be held on May 1, 6:30 p.m. at Cabrillo College. Paul and Sandy Lydon will be moderating this event covering racist statements against Muslims. Part of our US Constitution states “A More Perfect Union” and that is what they are trying to achieve. All are welcome to attend this forum. The Seniors do not have a trip to Chukchansi scheduled; however, there is a bus from Watsonville on Tuesdays that leaves from Target at 8:45 am. The price is $25. Anyone who is interested can join in this group. Leigh Sakaguchi announced that there will be another collection of outdated prescription medications to be held on Friday, April 29th at the Bronte Street Clubhouse from 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. and another at the Police Department on April 30th, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. If you would like to bring your

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“meds” next Thursday the 28th to Senior’s, Leigh will take them for you. Jean Yamashita announced that a Tai Chi class will be held at the Buddhist Temple on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please see the flyer posted on the bulletin board for more information. If you have not received a calendar of events for May and June, please see Carol Kaneko. Seniors have noticed and missed Edna Nagata for a few weeks, and we were sorry to hear she is at home with a case of shingles. Cindy Mine announced the importance of getting your shingles shot. Edna did have the shot so hopefully hers won’t be as bad as if she didn’t get the shot. Please take care of this right away. There are 4 tickets left for a tour of the USS Hornet in Alameda which has a wonderful display of the military exploits of the 100/442/MIS during WW II. This day-trip, sponsored by the Mid-County Senior Center, will be held Wednesday, May 18, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and the price is $72.00. Please contact Eiko Ceremony if you are interested.

Hisako Uemura was honored for her 88th birthday. She blew out all the candles on her special cake and was presented with a beautiful orchid plant. Congratulations to Mrs. Uemura! Thank you to Jean Akiyama and Hisako Kodama for the birthday flowers. Thank you to all

who were so generous with bingo prizes this past month: Jean/Iwao Yamashita 12 lemon bars, 5 green tea mochi,

5 bags apple cinnamon cake Eiko Stewart 12 rolls toilet tissue Sunao/June Honda 5 peanut mochi, 5 BBQ pork buns,

8 pkg. spicy California roll and Spam musubi, 8 plates blueberry mochi

Dylan/Aubrie/Alex Matsuo 1 box chocolate chip cooks, 1 bag Honey Wheat pretzels Toshi Yamashita 2 bags chagashi Miyeko Yamashita 2 bags chagashi, 9 snack treat Rubie Kawamoto 24boxes Kleenex, 2 boxes Cheez It Haruko Yoshii 6 rolls toilet tissue Chie Sakaue 1 bunch flowers Mary Perez 5 peanut butter cookies Eiko Ceremony 4 cans Spam Yaeko Cross 9 jumbo toilet tissue, 24 Ramen noodle soup Jane Sugidono 2 pkgs. sushi nori, 1 orchid plant Kazuko Sakai 4 boxes Kleenex, 200 lunch bags Mitsuyo Tao 5 bags lemons, 10 basket strawberries Terry Hirahara 9 rolls toilet tissue, 4 boxes

Kleenex, 2 bags Chex mix Kimi Fujii 6 rolls paper towels, 5 bottles Dawn dish soap Yoshiko Nishihara 15 bottles Dawn dish soap Eiko Nishihara 1 dozen strawberry jam Jean Akiyama 6 boxes Kleenex

Mitzi Katsuyama 5 banana bread Satoko Yamamoto 10 bags tangerines Chiyeko Shikuma 1 pkg. soba Eileen Byers 10 Dawn dish soap Nobuko Akiyama 12 extra-large paper towel rolls Hisako Kodama 8 packages Ramen Hide Nagamine Lots of cucumbers Carol/Paul Kaneko 12 boxes Kleenex tissue Mitsuko Ruble 12 rolls toilet tissue Gary/Cindy Mine persimmon and peach fruit wraps

Upcoming events: Thurs May 5 Mother’s Day Celebration; Hong Kong Gardens 4:15 pm Thurs May 12 & 26 Regular Bingos Thurs May 19 May Birthday Party Sat May 21 Baisho Matsumoto performance, Kizuka Hall 3-5 pm $10 Our new Chief of Police, David Honda, was sworn in at City Hall, and he is tentatively scheduled to be at Kizuka Hall to meet the Seniors on May 5. We will also be celebrating Mother’s Day at the same time. There will be a film festival in Japantown, San Jose on May 20-22. See Paul for a schedule of movies. The Baisho Matsumoto performance on May 21st at Kizuka Hall is a special Japanese Cultural Fair fundraising concert. A $10 donation is requested. Time is 3 to 5 pm. Reminder: We are looking for donations for our Mother’s Day raffle on Thursday, May 5. Useful and practical gifts for our mothers are appreciated. Please check out our Senior Center website: http://kizukahallseniors.wordpress.com to keep up with our activities, see photos in color, and view our calendar. WATSONVILLE BUDDHIST TEMPLE NEWS We want to thank all of our temple members, organizations, and non-members that unconditionally volunteered countless hours, donated items, and/or participated to help make our Hanamatsuri Festival such a

success. We couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you! We also want to thank our wonderful community for its continuous donations and support. We hope you enjoyed all the great food, wonderful

entertainment, demonstrations, beautiful ikebana, bonsai, floral, doll, scout displays, Nikkei Traditions, and mostly the company you engaged with and that surrounded you. Hope to see you all again next year! Sincerely, Watsonville Buddhist Temple Hanamatsuri Committee

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President Bill Wurtenberg chaired the Hanamatsuri Service on April 3rd.

Dr. Reed Kuratomi dropped his purple flower petal while Norman Uyeda is just about to drop his pink petal ….

Rev. Dennis Fujimoto, the “Peanut Butter” minister of Idaho and Portland, OR, raises a knife especially designed for spreading peanut butter on a piece of toast.

Mathew Maemura pours sweet tea over the statue of the Buddha, and Keiko Hanayama gasshos.

Watsonville Buddhist Temple’s May Calendar: 1 Sun No Service 3 Tue 7:30 pm Temple Board Meeting 4 Wed 1 pm BWA Meeting 5 Thu 10 am ABA Meeting 6 Fri Secretary off after Temple Board meeting 8 Sun 9:30 am Japanese Service 10 am Shotsuki Hoyo, Sunday Service & Dharma School MOTHER’S DAY 13 Fri No San Juan Howakai Service 15 Sun No Service 22 Sun 10 am Gotan E & Late Bishop Memorial 29 Sun Memorial Day Cemetery Service to be

determined. Check your email or with the Temple Secretary.

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Shotsuki Hoyo Service 10 am Sunday, May 8, 2016

Shotsuki refers to a gathering to express gratitude for being able to find the meaning of life through Nembutsu. The families of the following deceased members are invited to Oshoko (offer incense). We look forward to seeing you at the service.

May Memorial List Akiyama, Hideo Akiyoshi, Jutaro Akiyoshi, Fumiye Aramaki, Fujie Arao, Akiharu Arao, Tamehachi Chihara, Akino Etow, Yayeno Flanagan, Sharon Fujii, Chiyoko Fujii, Sumito Fujii, Yuichi Fujita, Jim Yoshio Hashimoto, Hideo Hashimoto, Noriyuki Hayashida, Kichiji Higaki, Mariko Hirahara, Fumio Hirahara, Takeso Horibe, Frank Yoshimi Ikeda, Somekichi Iwami, Yasutaro Izumizaki, Fumiyo Kadotani, Haru Kajihara, Ippei Kato, Tadaaki Kawasaki, Sakae Kimura, George Kuroiwa, Kichiemon Maemura, Toshikazu Marui, Youemon Matsunami, Mitsuo Misumi, Yoshino Morikawa, Okon Morimoto, Reymi Morimoto, Yoshi Morishima, Chieko Muronaka, Hiroshi Nishita, Betty Ouchida, Misako K. Sakamoto, Michiko Sakaue, Yoshimi Shibata, Hideji Shirachi, George Takamune, Masaki Takamune, Rin Takei, Iowa Tawamoto, Hisa Teshima, Akira Tsuji, Yoshie Tsuda, Frances Tsuda, Matsue Uchimaru, Gary Uchimaru, George Uchimaru, Shizue Ura, Dorothy Uyematsu, Teiko Wada, Masao Yamamoto, Emi Yoshida, Masao

Yoshii, Senzo YBA/Dharma School decorated the Hanamido on Saturday, April 2nd. Thank you to everyone who came to help decorate it. It came out beautifully. Thank you, Ryoko Kozuki and Green Valley Floral in Salinas for donating the beautiful flowers. We sold baked goods/drinks at the Hanamatsuri Bazaar on April 10th. Thank you to everyone who donated their delicious baked goods. They were very much appreciated. BWA News: Gotan E Service and Late Bishop Memorial Service will be on May 22nd when BWA will serve luncheon and desserts. BWA will give a monetary gift to Dharma School. The 2017 Japan Trip for the Monshu Installation will be for 9 days from March 29 to April 6, 2017. If you are interested, please contact the Temple office at 831-724-7860. BWA was very pleased with all the help we got to make our maki sushi, inari and chirashi. Thank you so much for the help and delicious refreshments. ABA Report: ABA Memorial Service on January 29, 2017 will have guest speaker Reverend Motoyoshi of Stockton. The 2017 Japan Trip will be 9 days from San Jose Airport to see the new Monshu Installation in Kyoto. There will be a Kyoto tour, Tokyo tour, Hakodate tour to

enjoy onsens and seafood and lastly to Sapporo. It will be cherry blossom time. Departure will be on March 29, 2017 at 11 am from San Jose and back home on April 6, 2017. BWA cooking classes to be scheduled for those who want to learn to make sushi, etc. Boy Scouts: The Scouts hosted the Pancake Feed on March 20th from 8 am to 11 am. Would the board like the Scouts to take over the Spaghetti Feed as well? They need fundraisers to take the kids to camps, for badges, etc. The one thing that Scoutmaster Chris Garcia would appreciate is the money to cover the membership fees to the Monterey Bay/Santa Cruz Charter, which is around $500. The board will pick up the expense for their charter membership. The 2017 BCA National Council meeting will be from February 28th to March 5th in San Jose. There was a seminar on Dharma Thon, Social Justice, Membership – Retention and Propagation & Anti Bullying. The Sangha needs to plan yard cleanings during the year before major events.

The 2016 Hanamatsuri Festival in photos. The BWA ladies and volunteers are preparing the sushi and chigashi, which sold out quickly! Following photos were contributed.

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While the BWA ladies sold sushi, YBA and Dharma School students sold soft drinks and desserts.

Individuals were invited to visit the Hondo (chapel) to see the April 10th Hanamido with its purple wisteria (fuji), the official flower of the Nishi Honganji. They also enjoyed the festival with its ikebana, bonsai, musicians, doll making and display, and Watsonville Taiko.

PACIFIC CITIZEN (PC) SURVEY Please return the postcard you received from the National JACL. It asks if you wish to continue receiving a hard copy of the Pacific Citizen (official newspaper of the JACL) and/or a digital PDF version sent via your current email address, which you must provide. If you change your email address, you must inform the National JACL and probably the PC staff, too.

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Come help celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Monterey Peninsula JACL Hall (1926-2016) and the grand reopening of the Heritage Center on Sat., April 30, 2-4 pm.

Historians Sandy Lydon and Tim Thomas will discuss the history of the hall and the Japanese community on the Monterey Peninsula. There will be a traditional tea ceremony, taiko, and a musical presentation from the students of the Japanese School. The event is free, and light refreshments will be served. Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans (FFNV) The FFNV will hold its annual memorial service in Oakland Hills on Armed Forces Day, Sat., May 21, 2016 with 442nd RCT veteran Lawson Sakai as the keynote speaker. The service will start at 12:00 noon followed by potluck picnic at the same site. The memorial service site is located in Roberts Park, off Skyline Blvd/Joaquin Miller Rd/Highway 13 in south Oakland.

This memorial service began in 1992 as a tribute to fallen members of E Company, 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Now it honors veterans of the Military Intelligence Service and veterans of all wars. Warm clothing is highly recommended. Upon arrival at the gate of Roberts Park, announce that you’re attending the memorial service. Then the entrance/parking fee will be waived. Drive to the lower parking area and look for signs to the memorial service site. Questions may be directed to Brian Shiroyama at bshiroyama@gmail.com or (408) 896-1021. KAWAKAMI SISTER CITY NEWS By Robb Mayeda Because Ramsey Park is installing a skate park, we could not have our annual car wash. Thus, on Sunday, April 17, Kawakami Watsonville Sister City Association had its third fundraiser at Applebee’s. Hopefully, we will be able to return to Ramsey Park next year.

We would like to thank the community and Applebee’s for their support. Above enjoying their pancake breakfast are Terry and Kaoru Hirahara, Leigh Sakaguchi, Fred Oda and to the right, Susan and Richard Uyematsu. Photo by Robb Mayeda. Our sixteen students and two chaperones will be leaving May 10 for their eight-day trip to Kawakami-mura and Tokyo. They have been attending weekly Japanese lessons at E. A. Hall taught by Takashi and Kitty Mizuno. ANNUAL WHS ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT GOLF TOURNAMENT, “A TRIBUTE TO TOMMY ARITA”

The Eighth Annual Watsonville High School Golf Tournament will be held this year at Spring Hills Golf Course, 501 Spring Hills Drive, Watsonville, CA 95076 (note the change of the golf course) on Friday, June 17, 2016 with a shotgun start at 1 pm. Please sign up before

June 10, 2016. If you are interested in playing, sponsoring, and/or volunteering please contact Brad Hubbard, Tournament Director, at (831) 728-6390, ext. 6463 or email Brad at brad_hubbard@pvusd.net. Did you know there are 18 boys and girls sports programs? Brad states that 100% of the proceeds will go towards benefiting our young athletes. All alumni and friends of the Wildcatz are encouraged to support this program.

 

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We will work together with Chief Honda, as we have in the recent past with Chiefs Ray Belgard, Terry Medina, and Manny Solano.

WATSONVILLE TAIKO AND SHINSEI DAIKO By Bonnie Chihara Thank you to all who came to see our anniversary show Eventide Over Momoyama, April 16th-17th.

After many months of practice and hard work we were able to present Sensei Ikuyo Conant's original production and music. The children from Watsonville Taiko's Youth Group, Hinoki Taiko and Niseishin Taiko really stole the show with their energetic renditions of Irohauta, Sakura Ondo, Takinobori and Kodomobayashi. The following weekend, we participated in the Cupertino Cherry Blossom Festival and the Big Sur Marathon (see photos below where we encouraged the runners).

For more information on our upcoming performances or classes please contact us at (831) 435-4594. Or, email us at info@watsonvilletaiko.org. Our upcoming schedule: May 7th Human Race, Natural Bridges May 15th St. Clare's Festival, 941 Lexington Santa Clara June 4th Japanese Cultural Fair, Mission Plaza Park

Santa Cruz June 18th Land of Medicine Buddha Festival, Land of

Medicine Buddha Soquel June 25th JACL Picnic, Aptos Village Park July 2nd Summer Concert Series, New Brighton

Beach State Park July 16th Relay For Life, Watsonville High School July 27th Wharf to Wharf, Capitola Aug. 7th Church Street Fair, Santa Cruz Nov.13th Big Sur Half Marathon Dec. 4th Multicultural Celebration, Watsonville

WATSONVILLE BONSAI CLUB’S 43RD EXHIBITION Nearly everyone—of the 100 bonsai enthusiasts and friends in attendance—missed Don White, a bonsai expert, and wish him a speedy and complete recovery.

Master bonsai sensei, Katsumi Kinoshita, artistically creates a California juniper into a newly shaped bonsai. He was assisted by Margaret Brubaker. Note the difference between the top bonsai and the one Margaret is holding.

The surprised raffle winner of the magnificent bonsai was Margaret Brubaker! Well deserved! With Sensei Kinoshita is WBC’s President Michael Alciati.

A beautiful bonsai forest of maple trees.

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NCWNPD GALA LUNCHEON HONOREES On April 23, JACL’s Northern California Western Nevada Pacific District honored Emily Teruya, John Yamada (Mrs. Yamada accepted on behalf of her husband), and Fred Okimoto for their tireless efforts and service as our NCWNPD treasurers.

Alan Teruya, Emily Teruya, NCWNPD Governor David Unruhe, Lilia Yamada, Fred Okimoto, and Yen Marshall (AT&T rep).

Also recognized with appreciation for their dedicated service to the JACL and the greater community were unsung heroes nominated by each chapter.

Our Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL Chapter Daruma Award Honoree is Cindy Hirokawa Mine, shown here with husband Gary Mine. Her caring and helpful outreach

to our organization and community were highlighted in our March newsletter. Cindy is truly deserving of this special award.

In attendance were Mas Hashimoto; Fred Inami; Jeanette Hager; Kimiko Marr; Cindy, our honoree! Gary Mine; Marcia Hashimoto; Victor Kimura; and Laurel Mayeda. Absent in this photo was Karen Graham Kimura. A silent auction helped raise funds to support an exhibit of JA incarceration artifacts to be displayed at the Smithsonian in 2017. W-SC JACL gratefully acknowledges artists George Dymesich and Carol Kaneko for creating and donating a magnificent vase with the 442nd RCT patch, barbed wire and the words, “Let it not happen again” engraved in Japanese. The vase is a beautiful unique work

of art, and it received high interest among the gifts presented at the silent auction.

This magnificent vase was created and donated by George Dymesich and W-SC JACL board member Carol Kaneko.

Delphine Hirasuna, author of “The Art of Gaman,” was the event’s guest speaker. She spoke about the surprising success of her publications in regards to the arts and crafts of the Japanese American incarceration camps during WW II and how it became a traveling exhibit shown at various museums in this country and in Japan. Among the half million people who have seen the exhibit are the Emperor and Empress of Japan. Members of our chapter enjoyed the event thanks to the Gala organizing committee – Carol Kawase, Debbi Endow, Thaya Mune-Craig, Nikki Hikari, Janice Lusczak, and Michelle Huey. IN REMEMBRANCE, … FRANK OKAMOTO Frank Okamoto died surrounded by his family in Moss Landing on April 7, 2016. He was 50 years of age. Mr. Okamoto was born in Los Angeles and then became a long time resident of North Monterey County. He graduated from North Monterey County High School and attended Hartnell College in Salinas. He was a man of many wonderful traits. He worked for various jobs and, lastly, as a technician for a soil engineer. He was a bowler, golfer, avid sports fan and his favorite team was the Oakland Raiders.

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He is survived by his mother, Itsuko Okamoto and siblings Michael, Charles, and Roy (Mae) Okamoto. A service was held on April 16 at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple. GEORGE M. TANIMURA We mourn the passing of the patriarch of the Tanimura family—George Minoru Tanimura—who passed away at the age of 100 on April 15, 2016. His life and contributions were based upon human dignity and hard work. George Tanimura was born on July 2, 1915 in San Juan Bautista, the eldest of a dozen siblings. When his father died during the Great Depression, he took over the family’s affairs, starting as a worker in the lettuce fields. The family lost its small holdings when the family members were incarcerated in Poston, AZ during WW II. Returning after the war, the five Tanimura brothers rebuilt the family business from scratch, working as farm laborers on a ranch in Gilroy and saving their earnings. Steadily, they rebuilt their lives, and with a partnership with “Bud” Antle of Watsonville and later with “Bud’s” son, Bob Antle (Watsonville High School Class of 1953), Tanimura & Antle Inc. (T&A), was established in the Salinas Valley in 1982. T&A is a renowned grower and shipper of fresh vegetables including lettuce, cauliflower, Artisan Lettuce and hydroponic vegetables. Mr. Tanimura is most beloved for helping others in so many ways. The housing shortage for field workers and the education of young people were priorities. His charitable foundation outreached to the community, and the Tanimura & Antle Memorial Library at California State University, Monterey Bay is a legacy of the Tanimura and Antle families. Mr. Tanimura is survived by his wife of more than 71 years, Masaye, a son Glenn Tanimura, a daughter Leslie Morishita, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is survived by a brother Tommy Tanimura, a sister Rose Yuki, and a sister-in-law Sachi Tanimura. Funeral services were held on Sun. April 24 at the Salinas Buddhist Temple. We send our deepest condolences to the Okamoto and Tanimura families, relatives, and friends.

LOOK WHAT’S HAPPENING WITH THE JAPANESE CULTURAL FAIR (JCF) By Paul Kaneko There are numerous events happening leading up to the 30th Japanese Cultural Fair (JCF) on June 4th, 2016. It started on Jan. 18th with a fundraiser at the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) on Avenue 41st in Capitola where 20% of your tab that day will be donated to the JCF. Your last opportunity to dine at the IHOP will be May 23rd. Just present this small coupon.

For all you connoisseurs of good, locally produced beer, on Monday, May 2nd, you can indulge yourself at the Discretion Brewery off Avenue 41st in Soquel (across from the Safeway/Best Buy/Home Depot center, in back of Homespace). The Brewery will donate 20% of its beer proceeds that day to the JCF.

On Saturday, May 7th, the JCF will have a bowling fundraiser at the Boardwalk Bowl in Santa Cruz from 9 AM to 11:30 AM. You don’t have to be a bowler or know how to bowl to enter. All skill levels are welcome. Form a team of 4-5 people with an entry fee of $100 and get pledges if you like. For more information and entry forms go to: www.jcfsantacruz.org. All fees and donations are tax deductible. This will be a lot of fun for the whole family, with all proceeds benefitting the JCF. On Saturday, May 21st, Master Shamisen Player Baisho Matsumoto will perform at the Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL Kizuka Hall, 150 Blackburn St. Watsonville, CA from 3 PM to 5 PM. He will be performing with local shamisen player, Mr. Kyle Abbott of Santa Cruz. Matsumoto-san is from Japan and in this area performs for the annual Hakone Gardens Festival in Los Gatos. At this special performance, Mr. Matsumoto will be performing not only the shamisen, but also the shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese bamboo flute. Mr. Matsumoto has been playing the shamisen and singing folk songs for over forty-five years. He has performed all over the world in order to introduce the world to his wonderful Japanese music. When he turned 70, he turned over a new leaf of his life and changed his name to Matsumoto Baisho. (His former name was “Hidekatsuryu Fujimoto.”) Matsumoto-san’s mission in life is to continue performing traditional Japanese music all over the world. He says: “Your support and encouragement will be greatly appreciated.” Mr. Abbott has been playing the shamisen since he was fourteen years old and learned his basic techniques from Mr. Kevin Kmetz. He published a book called Shamisen of Japan: a Comprehensive Manual designed to teach anyone how to build and play their own shamisen. In 2010, he traveled to Japan for the first time to compete in the National Hirosaki Tsugaru Shamisen Tournament. He surprisingly placed in that competition. In 2011, he founded the Bachido School, the world’s first international shamisen community. Membership is free and now boasts over 1,300 members worldwide. He and a team of his followers went

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back to the National Hirosaki Tsugaru Shamisen Tournament placing third in 2013 and first in 2014. In 2015, Mr. Abbott founded the world’s first international shamisen workshop series in Japan which attracted top shamisen instructors to share their skills and inspire shamisen players from around the world. The next “Shamicamp” is scheduled for San Jose in 2016. Admission to the event will be available at the door with a $10 donation to the JCF. Doors will open at 2:45 PM. Then, on Saturday, May 28th, the JCF will conduct another special event headlined by Mr. John Kaizan Neptune, a master shakuhachi player from Kamogawa, Chiba-ken, Japan. A Californian-born American, Mr. Neptune received his master’s certificate from the Tozan School of Shakuhachi in 1977. He is the author of the book “Shakuhachi” and has performed and recorded in many countries around the world. His second album, “Bamboo” was named Outstanding Record of the Year by the Cultural Affairs Agency on the Japanese Ministry of Education. Neptune-san is regarded to be one of the top shakuhachi masters in Japan. Mr. Neptune will be joined on stage at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center (320-2 Cedar Street in Santa Cruz) by Mr. Abbott, Shirley Muramoto on koto, and others. Doors open at 6:30 PM with the concert beginning at 7 PM. Tickets will be available through Brown Paper Tickets for $20 in advance ($25 at the door). A limited number of choices “Gold Circle” seating will be available for $35 in advance through Brown Paper Tickets or $40 at the door. On Saturday, June 4th will of course be the 30th Japanese Cultural Fair at Mission Plaza Park in Santa Cruz, CA. As in many previous years, one of the major co-sponsors of the event will once again be the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Chapter of the JACL. This is a major opportunity for the entire community to get to know what the chapter does regarding fighting for civil rights of everyone while also purchasing delicious obentos, ocha, and locally grown strawberries and produce. Admission to the JCF is free and attendees will be treated to great examples of the traditions of Japan all in one day with the performances of two taiko groups, Minyo Folk Dance, Koto, Bon Odori, Shakuhachi, Tsugaru Shamisen, Awa Odori, and Okinawan Dance, and more on the main stage in the park; Bonsai, Ikebana, Tea Ceremony, and a Kimono workshop at the Zen Center; and the various martial arts demonstrated at the Aikido of Santa Cruz Dojo on Mission Street. The JCF will begin at 11 AM and conclude at 6 PM. A free shuttle will be available all day long between the park and the County Government Center. A free bicycle parking valet will be provided in the park. For more information about these and other programs of the Japanese Cultural Fair, please go online: www.jcfsantacruz.org. Thank you for your support. WESTIVEW CHIMES By Leslie Nagata-Garcia

Let's do something beautiful for God. – Mother Teresa

I recently saw the movie The Letters about Mother Teresa based on letters that just surfaced about her life and struggles. She was an amazing prophet

in our time speaking through the actions of her very life, about the dignity and worth of each person in the degrading face of the pursuit of corporate profits, materialism, racial tensions, religious separation, and more. She helped us all realize the joy of loving others—by just stepping out and doing it one person at a time. I feel the more I personally reflect on her life and words the more loving I become, the more of a servant I become, and the more I see how life really is about just caring for each other one interaction at a time. I wanted to encourage you to see this movie and also to reflect on her life and her words, so here are some of her words of wisdom (It would be a blessing to reflect on one each morning this week.): Love cannot remain by itself--it has no meaning. Love has to be put into action and that action is service. Whatever form we are, able or disabled, rich or poor, it is not how much we do, but how much love we put in the doing; a lifelong sharing of love with others. The dying, the cripple, the mental, the unwanted, the unloved-- they are Jesus in disguise. The more you have, the more you are occupied, the less you give. But the less you have the more free you are. Poverty for us is a freedom. It is not a mortification, a penance. It is joyful freedom. There is no television here, no this, no that. But we are perfectly happy. We can do no great things; only small things with great love. We must make our homes centers of compassion and forgive endlessly. When I see waste here [U.S.A.], I feel angry on the inside. I don't approve of myself getting angry; but it's something you can't help after seeing Ethiopia. Would you like to see Jesus? [Mother Teresa takes Bishop Curlin around a few walls to a man lying on a black leather pallet who has clearly visible things crawling on his body. As the bishop stands there in shock, Mother Teresa kneels down and wraps her arms around him, holding him like a baby in one's arms.] Here he is. [The bishop asks "Who?"] Jesus. Didn't he say you'd 'find me in the least person on earth?' Isn't this Jesus challenging us to reach out and love? You and I, we are the Church, no? We have to share with our people. Suffering today is because people are hoarding, not giving, not sharing. Jesus made it very clear: Whatever you do to the least of my brethren, you do it to me. Give a glass of water, you give it to me. Receive a little child, you receive me. Clear. Mother Teresa went out into the slums of Calcutta with the equivalent of 1 British Pound in her pocket, but with lots of faith and an un-quenching desire to follow

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God in the service of others, unknowing that her simple ministry to the least would catch fire! “Let’s do something beautiful for God!” How is God urging you to be love (to serve) those around you? How might God be urging you to start something small or do something small that will make a difference in one life? Who knows it may grow to touch thousands. Please keep Westview Church in prayer especially for how you can continue to reach out and be a blessing to others! You are a wonderful church family! In LOVE and GRATITUDE, Pastor Dan

Help your youth/children grow a strong foundation in Christ!

Youth/Family Upcoming and Past Events

Gym Nites are usually the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month, from 5:30 –

8 p.m., at Westview. Mark your calendars for the following dates in November and December:

May 6th – Gym Nite; 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Beach Party, Manresa Beach

May 20th –June 3rd – June 17th – Gym Nites

Open Your Eyes Through Education and

Service

Youth Trip: Urban Hollywood and San Diego Border July 18th – 23rd, 2016. Contact Pastor Dan or Hanna to sign-up Space is limited.

Wednesday Study Series

What is the confusing Book of Revelation really about and how does it speak into our time? Wednesday Study Series are usually held the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Westview – come explore the Book of Revelation as we discuss Max Lucado’s study of Revelation. Please mark your calendar for the following dates: May 11th, May 25th, June 8th, June 22nd

We Will Miss You Joao

Joao, an agricultural science student studying here in Santa Cruz County for the year, has been worshipping with us and attending our Wednesday Night Bible Study during his stay here. His last Sunday with us was April

24th as he will be going back to Brazil in May. Westview celebrated his time with us by presenting him with a “We’ll miss you” cake and a gift. Joao presented Westview with a generous gift of a white tablecloth with “In remembrance of

me” written in Portuguese gold lettering. Westview was blessed that Joao chose to spend time with our Church and we wish Joao success in whatever path he chooses. He will always be a part of our Westview family.

We have 10 children coming. Many have much need for help in math and reading and they are learning much! Our Tutors are awesome!—Mary Lou Hoffman,

Diane Mio, Susan Manabe, Nancy Shott, Hanna Kasik, Pastor Dan and sometimes Joanne Hayashi! If you want to join us Thursdays 3:30 - 5 pm let us know! It has been a delight to reach out with love and care for our neighbors.

DAY OF REMEMBRANCE EDUCATION FUND The Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL sincerely appreciates your generous support. Thank you! Gary Kono of Scotts Valley George Shimizu and Mary Takai of Walnut Creek “Keep up the excellent newsletter!” We are very grateful to all who renew their annual membership on or before their due date for your action saves us time and effort, but more important it tells us of your commitment to the cause of social justice, equality, and civil and human rights. Thank you! We have no paid staff. All board members are dedicated volunteers who believe in serving you, your family, and our community. JOIN US--WATSONVILLE-SANTA CRUZ JACL If you are not now a member of the National JACL, we’d love to have you join our W-SC JACL chapter. A membership application form is included in this newsletter. And, thank you for reading this May 2016 Newsletter! Comments are most welcome. Onward! Mas Hashimoto, Editor

WATSONVILLE-SANTA CRUZ CHAPTER JAPANESE AMERICAN CITIZENS LEAGUE

P.O. Box 163, Watsonville, CA 95077-0163

2016OfficersMarciaHashimoto President,

GiniMatute‐Bianchi1stVicePresident,AimeeMizuno2ndVicePresident,

VictorKimura Treasurer,

CindyH.Mine SecretaryBoardMembers

JoeBowes

JeanetteO.Hager

MasHashimoto

DavidKadotani

CarolKaneko

BrookeRains

KimikoMarr

LaurelMayeda

GaryMine

PhilipShima

IwaoYamashita

    April 27, 2016   Dear Members and Friends:  For  over  100  years  the  Japanese  American  families  of Watsonville  have  enjoyed  a  traditional  event  known  as  the “community  picnic.”  This  was  established  by  our  immigrant Issei  pioneers  who  struggled  and  worked  tediously  and  who could  afford  only  one  day  out  of  the  year  to  relax  and celebrate with gratitude the survival of another year.  Since  the  end  of  World  War  II,  the  Watsonville‐Santa  Cruz Japanese American Citizens League (W‐SC JACL) has sponsored this  important  cultural  tradition.    As  a  community  picnic everyone  is  welcome.    Highlights  of  the  picnic  include  a delicious barbecue lunch, the presentation of scholarships, fun races for all ages, free bingo for our Senior citizens and friends, entertainment by Watsonville Taiko, and an exciting raffle.  We cordially invite you and your family to join us at this year’s picnic, which will take place at the beautiful Aptos Village Park, 100  Aptos  Creek  Road,  Aptos,  CA  95003  on  Sat.,  June  25th, 2016 from 11 am to 4:30 pm.  Yours truly,    Marcia Hashimoto, Picnic Chair Watsonville‐Santa Cruz JACL Tax ID #94‐2659895 

1 1 : 0 0 A M — 4 : 3 0 P M

APTOS V ILL AGE PARK 1 0 0 A PTO S C R E E K RD. G P S : N 3 6 5 8 . 6 4 4 , W 1 2 1 5 4 . 1 5 4

For more information, contact the Watsonville-Santa Cruz Japanese American Citizens League: Email: wsc.jacl@gmail.com or visit us at http://www.watsonvillesantacruzjacl.org

General public parking is at the upper lot area. Clearance is needed for fire trucks, so there is no parking along the driveway down to the park.

Lower parking area is reserved for our volunteers, Seniors, handicapped, and Watsonville Taiko.

Featured Entertainment

Wat sonv i l le Taiko

T H E W A T S O N V I L L E - S A N T A C R U Z J A C L 2 0 1 6 A N N U A L

Community PicnicFree admission! Join us for a day of family fun! Everyone is welcome!

S AT U R D AY, J U N E 2 5 , 2 0 1 6

11:00–Noon Races and Senior Bingo

Noon Watsonville Taiko

12:25 Scholarship Presentations

12:45 LUNCH!

1:45–3:00 More Races and Senior Bingo

3:00 Ice Cream Social

3:10–4:30 Raffle! with many great prizes!

Parking is limited – Please Carpool !

LunchBBQ chicken, hot dogs, chili, r ice, salad, French bread and beverages

TEENS & ADULTS TO 69 YEARS $8

SENIORS 70 YEARS & UP $5

CHILDREN 6 TO 12 YEARS $5

CHILDREN 5 YEARS & UNDER FREE

TOWARD A MORE PERFECT UNIONO V E R C O M I N G I S L A M O P H O B I A

A Free Locally-Grown Community Forum Sunday, May 1, 6:30 PM (doors open at 6:00) Room 450 (Forum Building) Cabrillo College Upper Campus 6500 Soquel Drive, Aptos (parking is free on Sunday nights)

Including a special screening of the PBS broadcast �lm:

An American MosqueWith introduction and comments by the �lm's producer-director, David Washburn

Forum topics will include: • A primer on Islam and Islamophobia • When racist rhetoric had disastrous results for the Chinese, Mexicans, Filipinos and Japanese • Few Americans stood up to defend those targeted. Maybe this time? • Formulating an action plan for the present and future Forum co-sponsored by: • Cabrillo College History Department • Watsonville-Santa Cruz Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) www.watsonvillesantacruzjacl.org • Islamic Networks Group (ING) – web: www.ing.org • Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) – web: www.cair.com • More information, contact Paul Kaneko (JACL): 831-476-7040

** This is a non-partisan event. Not a�liated with or supporting any particular political party. Simply supporting our Muslim neighbors.

Watsonville-Santa Cruz Chapter National Japanese American Citizens League (JACL)

No Increase in the 2016 – 2017 Membership Dues

Working toward our national goal of Better Americans in a Greater America is a worthy one. One does not

have to be of Japanese ancestry to be a JACL member, but one must believe that safeguarding the rights of all Americans and legal residents is of utmost importance in this country.

Please join us today. We are the most proactive, oldest, and respected Asian American civil rights organization, and our programs include cultural appreciation and educational outreach. Your membership is never taken lightly or for granted. We have worked diligently to earn your confidence and trust. Your active participation and membership can make a significant difference in what happens today in our community and in our nation.

Please help us fight racial prejudice, discrimination, racial profiling, bigotry, intolerance and indifference.

The 2014 National and local dues for our tax-deductible organization (ID #94-2659895) are as follows: Family/Couples ___$150 This includes two National dues with one subscription to the Pacific

Citizen, local dues and our monthly JACL newsletter, and all children under age 14 to be included.

Individual Member ___$80 This includes National dues with subscription to the Pacific Citizen, the official paper of the National JACL, and local chapter dues and our monthly JACL newsletter.

Youth/Student ___$25 for each of ages 14 to 24, which includes a subscription to the Pacific Citizen, local youth/student membership, and our monthly JACL newsletter. Youth membership is required for scholarship consideration.

For Thousand Club, Century Club, and Millennium Club and Life membership categories, please contact our

membership chair Jeanette Otsuji Hager.

Name:

(Last Name) (First Name) (Middle Name)

Spouse’s Name: (Last Name) (First Name) (Middle Name)

Address:

Home phone: (_____) E-mail:

For family membership, please list names (and ages) of all children under the age of 14:

Name: Age:

Name: Age:

Name: Age:

Please send your check payable to Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL and mail ASAP to: Watsonville-Santa Cruz JACL

c/o Jeanette Otsuji Hager, Membership Chair, P. O. Box 163, Watsonville, CA 95077 Thank you so much for your support.

Check out our websites: http://watsonvillesantacruzjacl.org and jacl.org. .