www.huoa.org January/February 2021 Issue #190 Circulation 9,657 Uchinanchu of the Year and HUOA Installation Celebration By Joy Schoonover and Robbie Umeno he United Association welcomes each new year There would be reunions with with the Uchinanchu of the Year (UOY) and HUOA Installation friends and family and new friend- Celebration.T This year, the event was held ships would be forged. “Heartfelt on January 16. However, unlike previous Meet and Greet” seemed like an years, the Legacy Ballroom at the Hawaii appropriate theme. In September Okinawa Center was dark and silent. 2020, the Okinawan government The Uchinanchu community did not sit officially announced the post- shoulder to shoulder in the ballroom, ponement of the Taikai until 2022. they did not bring lei and gifts for their Pat needed a new theme. He UOY or newly elected Executive Council asked Grant “Masanduu” Murata members, they did not dine on a delicious Sensei for advice. Murata Sensei buffet lunch or enjoy the festivities of the suggested “Chimugukuru Tiichi” day together with family and friends. (All hearts unite as one), a fitting The COVID-19 pandemic dictated theme based on the circumstances our behavior. Mask wearing, frequent of the pandemic. Ginowan Shijin hand washing and social distancing Kai member Morris Umeno had become the new norm. The UOY designed a visual representation deserved to be recognized and the 2021 to express the strong Okinawan Executive Council needed to be installed. spirit that brings together the A solution was needed for this quandary. hearts and hands of people, united Rewind to early 2020. President-elect as one, for everyone’s success. Patrick Miyashiro was making plans for The Planning Phase 2021. The Seventh Worldwide Uchinanchu Taikai was scheduled to be Disappointed but not discour- Lynn Miyahira at Jikoen pick-up. held and Pat was planning to take a large Hawaii contingent to Okinawa. aged, Pat and his planning committee, tri-chaired by Ellen Higa, Sandy Nishimoto and Robbie Umeno, held online meetings to plan and organize a virtual event. Ginowan Shijin Kai members willingly volunteered to help. There was lots of enthusiasm, but one big problem remained: the committee was mainly com- prised of retirees with minimal technological knowledge and skills. Joy Schoonover took on the enormous challenge of produc- ing the virtual event. She Google-searched topics and watched countless hours of YouTube videos on how to set up, shoot and edit video clips. The idea of putting together a Celebration Package was con- ceived. Charlene Tamanaha worked with Ron Hattori, General Manager of A Catered Experience (ACE) to come up with two bento options. The bento would include local and Okinawan favorites. Sisters Wilma Ogimi and Claire Matsumoto created a gift package to honor the occasion. Caro Higa set up an online Live broadcast behind the scenes David Jones, Jon Itomura, Jay Higa, and Guy Miyashiro. installation, continued on page 4,5 & 6 Inside This Issue Uchinanchu of the Year and HUOA Installation Celebration ••••••••••••• Page 1 President’s Message ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 2 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Honolulu, HI No. 659 Permit 2020 Uchinanchu of the Year Honorees •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 3 HUOA Virtual Annual Installation (cont. from pg 1) •••••••••••••••••••• Page 4 HUOA Virtual Annual Installation (cont. from pg 4) •••••••••••••••••••• Page 5 President’s Theme/Warabi Ashibi •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 6 Warabi Ashibi ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 7 Ikuyu Madin •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 8 Preserving Our Legacy ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Pages 9-11 HUOA Donations/Kin Town Donation/JTB Donation/Club News ••••••• Page 12 Club News ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 13 HUOA YouTube Channel Turns 1/Ehime Maru/Mensore ••••••••••••••• Page 14 Club News/Okinawan Proverb/Uchinaaguchi ••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 15

Hawaii United Okinawa Association Ukee Street 94-587 Hawaii 96797 Waipahu, HUOA Schedule of Events/HOT Schedule ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 16 2 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 President’s Message UCHINANCHU By Patrick Miyashiro Ippee Nifee Deebiru... Mahalo!

Uchinanchu is our voice — the voice of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association, its members, and the “home” we all built together, the Hawaii Okinawa Center. By sharing information and experiences, Uchinanchu keeps us connected as a family, dedicated to preserving, sharing and perpetuating our Okinawan cultural heritage. Every dollar donated — along with the valuable income from advertising - helps offset the cost of publishingUchinanchu . HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru to the following donors. Mahalo for keeping Uchinanchu alive and thriving.

Uchinanchu Donors January 1 to February 1, 2021. Haisai Gusuuyoo. Ii Soogwachi Deebiru! George Agena Robert Y. Miyahira Masao Shiroma Ed & May Asato Grover Miyasato William Speed hat an auspicious beginning to the New Year! The first- Jane Asato Mitsuko Miyashiro Evelyn Tengan ever virtual Uchinanchu of the Year (UOY) & Installation Gary Furugen Hannah Nakamura Amy Tsuru CelebrationW and bento sales were an exceptional success. There were Charles & Helen Higa Thomas & Jean Nishimura Walter Wauke 30 persons from 26 clubs who were recognized as their UOY. Thank Frederick T. Higa Clement Oshiro Wallace S. Yara you for your support of your clubs and the HUOA. Your dedication Sonia Honda Mark Perkins Jan Yuen Seizen & Helen Maeshiro Kenneth Shimabukuro Trudy Zukemura and hard work are most graciously appreciated. Alice Masutani Lillian Shimabukuro I want to thank Lynn Miyahira for her outstanding leadership in 2020, navigating the HUOA through all of the diversions of the COVID-19 restrictions. We learned the benefits of doing meetings in For more about Pat’s theme, see story on page 6. the Zoom platform, such as allowing neighbor island clubs to par- ticipate in the meetings without inter-island travel. Another benefit is that once the meeting is over you just turn off the computer and you’re already home – no travel time to and from the meeting. To David Jones – our president-elect for 2022 – and all the current officers and advisors, a great big mahalo for continuing to serve and support the HUOA. We will remain alert in 2021 as to what is allowed and what is not during the covid pandemic. On a positive note, Sun Noodle and Central Pacific Bank Foundation have partnered with the HUOA to distribute 500 boxes of noodles to our 50 member clubs. Each club will receive 10 boxes containing 12 packets of noodles to be distribut- ed to their members – especially the kupuna who may be facing hard- ship due to COVID-19. Nine HUOA officers volunteered to clean the Ehime Maru memo- rial on Saturday, February 6, in anticipation of the 20th year memo- rial service on February 9. Volunteering were: Clarisse Kobashigawa, Chikako Nago, Terry Goya, Aolani Yamasato-Gragas, Dave Arakawa, Eric Nitta, Roy Arakaki, Pat Miyashiro, and Jon Itomura. Officers and committee chairpersons are planning various pro- grams throughout the year to promote, perpetuate and preserve the Okinawan in Hawaii. Details will be provided in the Purple Blast as programs are put in place. As always, please stay safe and maintain your health and Chimugukuru Tiichi.

2021 Calendar of Events The year at a glance!

March 27 HUOA’s Class and Play - Virtual UCHINANCHU Uchinanchu is the newsletter of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association. Although Jun 8-10 Children’s Day Camp - Oahu, TBD subject to change, issues will be published bi-monthly. Volunteer writers are wel- Jun 18 Senior Health & Wellness Fair, TBD come. Send your name, address and telephone number to Uchinanchu Newsletter, Hawaii United Okinawa Association, 94-587 Ukee St., Waipahu, Hawaii 96797. Jun 22 Irei no Hi Rememberance, Virtual E-mail articles to [email protected]. Uchinanchu reserves the right to edit all mate- Sep 3-5 39th OKINAWAN FESTIVAL, TBD rial for clarity and accuracy. HUOA President •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Patrick Miyashiro Sep 18 Autumn Matsuri, TBD Executive Director •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Jon Itomura Oct 3-14 Study Tour in Okinawa, TBD Editorial/Production Services ••••••••••••••• MBFT Media: Arnold Hiura, Oct 29 Uchinanchu no Hi Celebration, TBD Eloise Hiura and Hilma Fujimoto Nov 28-29 Winter Craft Fair, TBD ADVERTISING INFORMATION Uchinanchu reaches over 9,700 households. For advertising rates and more Dec 8 An Evening in Waipio Craft Fair, TBD information, contact us at: Tel: (808) 676-5400 – Email: [email protected] – www.huoa.org Check HUOA website – www.huoa.org for more information. January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 3

2020 Uchinanchu Of The Year Honorees 4 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 installation, continued from page 1

Production team member Mike Schoonover. Behind the scenes with Joy Schoonover. Organizing Committee Zoom meeting. preorder form. Each family would receive a commemorative program Honey. A commemorative program booklet was also included. A total of booklet. 884 Celebration Packages were distributed from 10 a.m. to noon. The Production Phase At 2 p.m. (HST), the Uchinanchu of the Year and 71st Installation Mike Schoonover, Wilma Ogimi, David Jones, Jon Itomura, Copeland Celebration was broadcast to a worldwide audience of over 3,000. Emcee Talkington and Ellen Higa joined the video production team. After many hours spent planning, scheduling, script writing, rehearsing, record- ing voice overs, adding transitions and special effects, videotaping, re- videotaping and editing the first virtual Uchinanchu of the Year and Installation Celebration was ready for broadcast. Congratulatory letters, biographies and other written materials were requested, collected and edited by Jon Itomura, Robbie Umeno, Linda Kunihisa, Lauren Suekawa and Bonnie Miyashiro. The program book- let was designed and composed by Caro Higa and Morris Umeno. The color-coded sections of the pro- gram booklet are inspired by the vibrant hues of the bingata designs. The sections include con- Kachashi recording session with Pat and kids. gratulatory letters, biographies Guy Miyashiro opened the formal program with a call to celebration pro- of the 2021 HUOA Executive vided by Chinagu Eisa Hawaii. Pastor Russell Higa of Streams of Life Council and Uchinanchu of the Fellowship blessed the event. The outgoing officers, advisors and club Year, Program outline and photo- representatives were recognized and Judge Karen Nakasone installed graphs of past HUOA Presidents. the 2021 Executive Council. Lynn Miyahira, outgoing President, talked The Big Day about the difficulties faced by the Executive Council due to social dis- On the morning of January tancing requirements brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. President 16, 2021, a steady stream of Patrick Miyashiro shared his goals for the year – adapt and survive; cre- cars snaked slowly through the ate a vision for the future, and promote, perpetuate and preserve the Hawaii Okinawa Center parking Okinawan culture in Hawaii. His primary concern is the health and safe- lot to pick up their Celebration ty of the volunteers. He ended the speech with his favorite saying, “No Packages. Patrick was there to worry, we get um.” Hawaii and Dawn Ige; Okinawa greet and thank them for their Pat’s son Mark Miyashiro and Courtney Governor Denny Tamaki; Ginowan City Mayor Masanori Matsugawa, support. Across town at Jikoen Takara direct traffic. and Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi provided congratulatory messages Hongwanji Mission another pickup site was set up. Past President Lynn and well wishes. Miyahira and an almost life size poster of Patrick was there to greet and The 30 Uchinanchu of the Year from 26 Clubs were then honored. thank supporters. The Celebration Package consisted of the special bento, They spanned the generations from issei to yonsei, club membership from gift bag of three pieces of individually wrapped mochi, andagi provided by 75 years to less than two years. Respect for the past and an unselfish ACE and a bear-shaped bottle of Waimanalo honey from Hawaii Tropical willingness to support their clubs and the greater community were

HUOA pick-up: Gail Fuller, Amanda Higa, and Charlene Tamanaha. Wilma Ogimi, Sandy Nishimoto, and Charlene Tamanaha. Terry Goya at HOC pick-up.

more photos on page 5

Bonnie Miyashiro and Nona Miyashiro wrap andagi. Chris Santomauro and Randy Morisako at Jikoen. Prepping souvenirs at Jikoen: Leigh Morisako. January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 5 installation, continued from page 4

Pat, Sandy Yanagi and Kyra Pila at HOC pick-up. Pat and his daughter Marni Canubida at HOC pick-up Pat’s family at HOC pick-up: Daven Pila, Makayla Miyashiro, Matt Pila, and Aaron Pila.

Pat’s recording session. Photographer Dave Au, Lynn Miyahira, Naomi Reagan, and Pat. common threads all the honorees shared. The formal program concluded and Okinawan government with karii lead by HUOA Past Presidents John Tasato and Rodney officials. Kohagura. Even though we could not The entertainment began with the traditional piece, “Kazadihuu Bushi.” physically gather together, we Emcee Jay Higa introduced the special joint performance by Patrick could share the “same” meal Miyashiro on taiko and granddaughter, Kaitlynn Canubida. The Hooge while viewing the virtual cel- Ryu Hana Nuuzi no Kai Nakasone Dance Academy performed “Shinnen ebration from the front row No Yorokobi” and “Udui Kwadisa.” Chinagu Eisa Hawaii returned with seats in our living rooms and Performance Recording Kaitlynn Canubida and Pat. an energetic “Dynamic Ryukyu”. The program closed with kachashi featur- experience the excitement and pride of the Uchinanchu of the Year and ing some of the UOY honorees, members of the Installation Committee, 71st Installation Celebration. 6 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 President’s Theme Chimugukuru Tiichi – All hearts unite as one. By Clarisse Kobashigawa ewly installed HUOA President Pat Miyashiro has selected a most He worried that its meaning would be lost on people. His gut told him to fitting theme for 2021 – Year 2 of the pandemic. Pat’s theme fits search for something shorter, something that he would have no prob- himN well. Truly, the theme asks all of our members to open up their lem remembering and conveying in one breath. After appealing to hearts and minds so that they can understand and anticipate the Mark Higa, 2015 HUOA President, for help with the translation, needs of others and then to support them through action, with he was steered to Sensei Grant “Masandu” Murata. And it was words unspoken. It is a call to action and a reminder of what we there that his theme, “Chimugukuru Tiichi,” took shape. all can accomplish when we work together as one body, with one Aside from the unique wording of each theme, the artwork mind, and beating vibrantly with one heart. for the President’s logo also breathes life and character to the With decades of service under his belt, Pat is a long contributing words. The vibrant purple and red in Pat’s theme are symbolic. member of HUOA organization and his ancestral club, Ginowan Purple is often associated with Uchinanchu pride, and the red Shijin Kai. With his experience, he brings all immediately triggers images of a beautiful of us comfort and assurance that even these heart. daunting times shall also pass. When the Pat’s bold yet gently unifying theme sets circumstances around us say “no can,” Pat is a distinct tone. It reminds us all to lean in the one who says “can.” His one-liners often and do our part, to open up our hearts and bring outbursts of laughter at precisely the to lead compassionately, to selflessly search right time during often tedious and sometimes heavy planning meetings. out and place the needs of those next to us above our own, and to embrace Chimugukuru Tiichi - One is able to understand and support with an the challenges of the year together and never apart. One can only hope that unspoken word, the mind of another. this beautiful spirit will indeed wash over us, uniting all of the hearts and Pat’s journey in selecting the right theme was itself an interesting one. His hands of the HUOA community and supporters alike, moving in peace and first attempt resulted in a phrase that was too long and difficult to remember. harmony for everyone’s success.

Warabi Ashibi - HUOA’s Children at Play In the spirit of keeping our multi-generational homes interactively learning and playing together, we are happy to introduce Warabi Ashibi - HUOA’s Children at Play feature. In this section we hope to encourage our youth to learn and play as we promote, preserve and perpetuate the Okinawan culture across all generations with a special focus on engaging our children. January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 7

Coloring Shiisaa People believe that shiisaa are guardians. They protect the house against evil spirits. They come in pairs. One has its mouth open, and the other has its mouth closed. The open mouth shiisaa keeps evil spirits away, and the closed mouth shiisaa keeps good spirits in. Can you tell what these two cute shiisaa are doing?

Credit in the shiisaa coloring: Gordon Uehara 8 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 Bridging from Generation to Generation - For Our Children!

A Capital Campaign of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association

he Hawaii Okinawa Plaza opened its doors in late 2019 and is now home to five tenants. Rental income from the Plaza will go to the Hawaii United Okinawa Association to support its many cultural programs as well as the upkeep and capital improvements of the Hawaii Okinawa Center. Now that the Plaza is open for business, this campaign will be winding down. This accomplishment took years in the making and Ikuwould not have been possibley withoutu the Madinhelp and support of the over 1,200 donors in Hawaii and Okinawa. Since our last report, we received $18,600. InT honor of our previous generations and in promise to those to come, “shikinoo chui shiihii shiru kurasuru,” we will greatly enhance our shared way of life, now and for future generations. To all of our donors, we say Magukuru Kara Ippee Nifee Deebiru. – from our hears, thank you very much.

IKUYU MADIN KAI – 200 FOR 2M CAMPAIGN (Joined members who have either donated or pledged $10,000 or more to the 2M Campaign.) Aloha Tofu Inc., Paul Uyehara Arthur Kaneshiro Yasuo and Chiyo Sadoyama Aza Yogi Doshi Kai – Yogi Village Inez & Lincoln H. Kaneshiro Jr. Steven & Stephanie Saito Nancy Akamine Arizumi, Claire Nobuko Kida The Family of Akira & Jane Sakima Matsumoto, Wilma Ogimi Kin Chojin Kai Jane Serikaku Arashiro Ohana Rodney & Carol Kohagura Chris & Shiori Shimabukuro Charles & Gladys Tokunaga Asao Paul Y. & Kristi Komeiji Earl & Sue Shimabukuro George Bartels, Jr. & Doreen Bartels The Family of Richard and Kiyoko Kuba Herbert & Lillian Shimabukuro Dr. Glenn M. & Lucille K. Biven - Lui, Chung, Morikami, Kuba-Hori R.K. & C. Shimabukuro Ford & Daneil Chinen Asako Kuwazaki Bob & Mimi Shiroma Dr. Doris Ching Jane Setsuko & Won Kuk Lee George & Pat Takamiya Alton Chung Miki & Brian Maeshiro Courtney Takara Furugen Family Ltd. Partnership Mavis Masaki Karen Keiko Tamae & Akira Sugikawa; Gwen & Clayton Fujie Dwight T. Matsuda Roy, Dawn & Makana Sugikawa; Gaza Yonagusuku Doshi Kai Robert T. Matsuda Janet & Neal Yamanouchi Ginowan Club Sally & Hisashi Matsumoto Tamagusuku Club Ginoza Sonjin Kai Kenneth & Amy Mijo Cyrus & Ann Tamashiro Haneji Club Gordon S. & Faye E. Miyasato George & Emeline Tamashiro Hawaii Shuri-Naha Club Guy Miyashiro James M. Tamashiro Family, in memory Christine & Stanley Higa Florence Sueko, Patrick of Martha Kame Tamashiro Henry Shiyei Higa & Gladys & Nona Miyashiro Daniel Tengan Matsue Higa by co-trustees Lawrence & Alice Morisako Mark & Joanie Teruya Jane Akiko Kamiya, Alice Etsuko Catherine Morishige Charles T. Toguchi Higa & Edward Shisei Higa Mark Mugiishi Linda Torigoe Laverne Higa Russell & Charlotte Mukai Darryl Uezu Mark & Hanae Higa Nago Club Alice S. Uyehara Mildred Higa Nakagusuku Sonjin Kai Clayton & Cynthia Uza Dr. Kyoko Hijirida Carol & Jackson Nakasone Wahiawa Nakasone Family Hui Alu, Inc. Karen Nakasone Reunion & Golf Tournament Hui Makaala Mitsuko Toguchi Nakasone Maurice & Jean Yamasato Hui O Laulima Norman & Renette Nakasone Kenneth & Helen Yanamura Carol & Stanley Ige Okinawa Genealogical Nancy & Larry Yogi and Family Jocelyn Ige Society of Hawaii Yomitan Club Ralph & Jean Ige The Family of Shinichi & Bob Yonahara In Memory of Melvin “Blackie” Iha and Utome Okuhama Harold & Elsie Yonamine Benjamin “Blackie” & Violet Iha Oroku Azajin Club In Memory of Kenneth K. Richard Iha, Jr. Kaname Oshiro & Hazel C. Uehara Yuriko Inamine Ruth Oshiro On Behalf of Derek, Harold Jon Itomura Yoshimori Oshiro & Joyce Asato

Donations listed below were received from December 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021. Wayne & Muriel Arakaki Hui O Laulima Lillian Shimabukuro OurAza Yogi Doshi Kai - Yogi Village Suppo by Keith Nakasone Stanley & Carolr Igeters Amy E. Tsuru (2) Aza Yogi Doshi Kai - Yogi Village by Myles Nakasone Nobuko Kida In memory of Fusako Ikehara & Dennis Ikehara by Gwen Fujie Denise Liu Rodney Ikehara Eric & Loretta Fukunaga Kenneth & Amy Mijo In memory of Alice K. Arakaki by Kita Nakagusuku Gaza Yonagusuku Doshikai Family of Akira & Jane Sakima by Howard Sakima Sonjin Kai January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 9 Preserving Our Legacy2020 to 2021–Annual Giving Program hank you to the many members, friends and businesses that have responded to our 2020/2021 annual giving campaign. The coronavirus pandemic has impacted everyone around the globe and we understand that 2020 has been an extremely challenging year for many people. T That is why we are deeply grateful for the confidence you have shown in us. As we begin a new year, HUOA looks forward to new promises and challenges. Your donation allows us to create a bright future for the HUOA and the Hawaii Okinawa Center. The new campaign started in November 2020 and by the end of the month we received a total of 891 donations, representing $162,741. We are forever grateful to all of you. Please join us in 2021, in helping our community thrive and grow. It is through your continued contributions that we are able to have successful programs and upkeep our home, the Hawaii Okinawa Center. Ippee Nifee Deebiru! The following list of donors reflects contributions processed from December 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021. PLATINUM ($2,500 - $4,999) A. Miyashiro In memory of Masao & Shizue Yamashiro of Los Angeles by In memory of Dr. James & Haruko Tengan by Daniel Tengan Wilfred & Loretta Miyashiro Dale M. Kosei & Gail Nago In memory of Frederick & Lillian Yogi by Lynette Williams GOLD ($1,000 - $2,499) In memory of James Kiyoshi Yogi by Kay T. Yogi Anonymous Alben & Lynn Namihira In honor of Sensei Masakazu Teruya by Nina Teruya & Hui O Laulima Henry H. Takara Jeffrey Jocelyn A. Ige George & Emeline Tamashiro In honor of Niwa & Nabe Tohara by Craig Tohara Oshima & Itomura Jody Teruya Linda Teruya David Ueunten BRONZE ($250 - $499) Francis & Fran Toyama In memory of Ansei & Edna M. Arakaki by the Arakaki Anonymous (4) Family Thad & Yoko Wakasugi Cornell & Shirley Alos In memory of Taru & Kamado Arakaki by Tomiko A. See In memory of Sanra & Ushi Goya & Family by Jeannette Gary & Janet Kaneshiro Goya In memory of Tadao Beppu by Anita Beppu Ralph Nakama In memory of Rikichi Kohatsu by Joji & Ritsuko Seta In memory of Zenichi & Chiyoko Chibana David & Diane Nakasone In memory of Teruo, Emily Emiko, Sakae, Kame & Kame In memory of Joe & Yoko Higashi by Henry M. & Sharon H. Lance Shiroma Oshiro by Stephen M. Oshiro Higashi Steven Y. Takushi In memory of Nancy H. Takara by Shinichi Takara & Family In memory of Harold Toshi Kaneshiro by Gaye Oshiro Virginia Tanakatsubo In memory of June Nakama Taomae In memory of Shinko & Mieko Kuniyoshi by Karen Liu Gordon & June Tsukamoto In memory of Kwanko & Kana Toyama by Toki & Pat In memory of Kozen Miyashiro by Mary Ann Lundquist Wesley H. Waniya Toyama In memory of Kosuke, Kame & Shigeru Nakasato by Stephen Lawrence & Carole Yamamoto In memory of Seison & Kamata Yagi & Aaron Hatsuo M. Oshiro In memory of Wallace & Kay Chinen by Joyce N Chinen Oshiro by Sally In memory of Kamado Oshiro, Tsuyako Oshiro & David In memory of Pauline Nakachi Hirasuna by Thomas Oshiro Hirasuna & Jean SILVER ($500 - $999) In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Choyu Shimabukuro by Mrs. Anonymous (5) In memory of Thomas M. Ikehara by Walter Ikehara Jason Yuen George & Doreen Bartels In memory of Bokuzen & Haruko T. Kaneshiro by Frances T. In memory of Edward T., Gladys S., Michael ‘Sumo’ Uehara Arleen & Keith Kamita & Stacy Ed & Bobbi Kuba Continued on Page 10 10 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 2020 to 2021–Annual Fund Drive Preserving Our Legacy Continued from Page 9

In memory of Bokuzen & Haruko T. Kaneshiro by Sandra S. Steven & Janyce Miyashiro In memory of Dr. Phil Ige by Joyce N. Chinen & Carl S. Leroy Nagasako In memory of Thomas M. Ikehara by Emily Ikehara In memory of Seisuke & Ushi Kaneshiro by Wini Sakai Scott & Susan Nakahara In memory of Kama & Kamado Isa by Wayne & Corinne In memory of Masao & Shizue Nakasone by Mr. & Mrs. Mr. & Mrs. Harry Nakahodo Takara James T. Kubo Mildred S. Nakama In memory of Kiyome & Takeo Isa by Rodney & Sharon Isa In memory of Larry Masami Nashiro by Joyce Patterson Stanley K. Nakamura In memory of Fumiko Ishikawa by Stanley Ishikawa In memory of Clyde K. Sato by Gloria M. Sato Wayne & Karen Nakamura In memory of Fumiko Ishikawa by Suzanne Yamada In memory of Jane S. Shiroma by Masao Shiroma James S. Nakasone In memory of Merle Tamanaha Kajiwara by Ralph Kajiwara In memory of Yoshiaki Shiroma by Coletta J. Shiroma Charlene Nekomoto In memory of Charles K. Kakazu by Arlene, Jodie & Daryn In memory of Robert Tamaye & Travis Richardson by Sandra Nishimoto Kakazu Joanne Donald K. Nitta In memory of Kenneth M. Kaneshiro by Edward Kaneshiro In memory of Mosei & Chiyo Yahiku by Jean T. Tsuda Raymond & Betty Okuhara In memory of Akemi & Kaweo Kanoho by Nozomi Kanoho In memory of Carl T. Uyeunten by Arline Uyeunten Jeannene Oshiro In memory of Seijin & Kame Kiyuna by Judith Sheldon In honor of Seiko & Hatsuko Kaneshiro by Karen K. Street Momoyo Oshiro In memory of Mr. Kameichi Kobashigawa by Ellen S. CONTRIBUTOR ($100 - $249) Naomi Oshiro Miyashiro Anonymous (20) Nobuko Oshiro In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Kiichi Kobashigawa by Karen Miura Michael M. Arakaki Ray Oshiro In memory of Mitsugi & Yoshiko Kobayashi by Christine Pauline Arakaki Yoshimori Oshiro Kobayashi Priscilla Arakaki Charles & Elaine Ota In memory of Emi Matsuda by Vicki Hirano Arashiro Ohana Mr. & Mrs. Russell G. Owens In memory of Francis Militante by Sue Ann Militante Royden Arashiro Richard S. Oyama In memory of Alan Miyahira & Warren Miyahira by Ed & May Asato Rons Construction Corporation Leonard & Lorraine Nehl Jane F. Asato Clyde & Sandra Sakihara In memory of Miyashiro, Zentaro, Ushi & Walter Takashi by Vivian Chee Edward M. Sakima Nancy Miyashiro West Ford Chinen Thomas & Kazuko Sakuma In memory of James & Nancy Miyashiro by Merl & Sharon Anita & Jesse Choi Louis & Alice Shimabuku Miyashiro Susan Claveria Lillian Shimabukuro In memory of Kosei & Haruko Miyashiro by Florence S. Sally Dang Ernest & Lenore Shima Miyashiro J. Nakamoto Dilley Charles Shiroma In memory of Shigeharu & Ann Morita by Clyde B. Morita Gwen Fujie Julie Shiroma In memory of Steven & Thelma Nagamine by Jean Sundae Funai Yuki T. Sokei Shimabukuro Larry S. & Audrey K. Gibo Karen Sugikawa In memory of Mr. & Mrs. Koroku Nakama & Hiroshi Tsuneo Goya Toshi Sullivan Nakama by Rosalind Nakama Wayne Gushiken Miyoko (Doris) Takara In memory of Mr. & Mrs. James K. Nakanishi by Mr. & Mrs. Susumu William & Sylvia Gushi Morris T. Takushi In memory of Albert N. Nakasato by Roy & Doreen Higa Jane S. Higa Chokatsu Tamayose In memory of Kameju & Tsuruko Nakasone by Gilbert James & Aileen Hiramatsu David K. Teruya Nakasone Francis Hirashiki Shigeo & Grace Teruya Nora Y. N. Ige In memory of Yukichi & Toku Nakasone & Hiroshi & Tsuru Cynthia Toma Shiroma Richard Ige Shige Toyama In memory of Jean K. Nishikawa by Roy & Doreen Higa Akira & Barbara Iha Doris T. Uehara In memory of Stanley Osamu Owan by Mitchell Owan David Iha Eugene S. & Helen H. Uehara In memory of Baba chan Chiru Sakihara by Kim Yamauchi- Norman Ikei Stanley Uehara Wahlberg Joseph T. Imai Alan Uyehara In memory of Grandpa Seki by Lisa Carvalho Brian S. Isa Yukio Uyehara In memory of Shigeru & Soyo Serikaku by Carol Y. Matsuo Shirley Isara Roy T. Uyehara In memory of Shigeru & Soyo Serikaku by Ellen Ujimori Janice Ishiara Elnora Wakasugi In memory of Elton & Hideo Shimabukuro by Lily Lee Ishiara Bert & Mitsuko Yamaguchi Shimabukuro Shigeru & Fumiko Ishikawa Helen Yamamoto In memory of Fukusei & Teruko Shimabukuro by Joy Takashi & Janet Ito Bryan I. Yamashita Shimabukuro Mr. & Mrs. David Johnston Robert & Norma Yara In memory of Reynold Shimabukuro by Sally Shimabukuro Dennis Kaneshiro Albert & Nancy Yeda In memory of Richard & Iris Shimabukuro by Lyanne Inez Kaneshiro Richard & Kay Yogi Shimabukuro-Hijirida Sandra M. Kaneshiro Clayton & Shirley Zukeran In memory of Sanra & Kamado Shinsato by Allan & Mary S. Kanetake In memory of Ryoan & Naye Arakaki & Yasuko (Arakaki) Charlotte Hashimoto Kent & Steph Katayama Takeda & Shigekazu Takeda by Gloria J. Takahashi In memory of Thomas T. Shiroma Valerie Kato In memory of Shirley & Takeo Arakaki by Keith Arakaki In memory of Seizen & Tsuru Taba by Ed & Helen (Taba) Stephanie Kirimitsu In memory of Taketo Asato by Clara Goto Ginoza Mae T. Kishimoto In memory of Yuichi & Tsuyu Asato by Kenneth K. Asato In memory of Kame & Kamato Taira (Ginowan) by Tylar Umeno Tom & Karen Kiyabu In memory of Takeo Azama by Calvin Azama In memory of Yeikichi & Ushi Tamanaha by Karen K. Clarisse Kobashigawa In memory of Wallace & Kiyoko U. Chinen by Karleen Tamanaha Edwin Kobashigawa Chinen In memory of William & Gertrude Terukina by Jennifer A. Sheri Kobashigawa In memory of Bertha Kanako Ginoza Choo by Wendell Terukina Kenneth & Suzanne Kohagura Choo In memory of Harry Y. Toyama by Howard & Jane Takara Kimiko Kohagura In memory of Alyce E. Funayama by Sharon Funayama In memory of Hideko Tsukayama by Karen Arakawa Paul Komeiji In memory of Kiyuta & Ushi Ginoza by Edward Ginoza In memory of Mitsuko Tsukenjo by Stacy Kanayama-Trivedi Karen & Patrick Kubota Family In memory of Shigeko Gushiken by Ai Ogata In memory of Measagi & Saku Yago by Nancy & Jenna Henry & Carol Lau Teruya In memory of Charles Matsuhide Higa by Wayne Higa William & Loreen Leong In memory of Tsuneo & Aiko Yamashita by Don & Chris In memory of Claudia E. Higa Richard Maruyama Yamashita In memory of Harry S. Higa by Roy & Doreen Higa Amy Matano In memory of Patsy & Mac Yonamine by Leighton & Carolyn Matsuura In memory of Seishu & Kami Higa by Wayne & Diane Sharynne Sakamoto Matsuoka Dan Menda In honor of Shoichiro Itomura by Lisa Itomura In memory of Sidney K. Higa by Hawaii Shuri-Naha Club Shirley E. Miyahira In honor of George Tokuhama by Robin & Stephanie In memory of Warren Teruo Higa by Geraldine Higa Arlene Miyamoto Tokuhama In memory of Sandra Higuchi, & Chosei & Katy Arasaki Kimie Miyashiro by Cori Rose Miyashiro Continued on Page 11 January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 11 2020 to 2021–Annual Fund Drive Preserving Our Legacy Continued from Page 10

FRIEND ($99 AND UNDER) Cynthia Kishimoto Kent Teruya Anonymous (17) Derrick & Sherry Kobayashi William & Mitsue Teruya George Agena Darren Konno Ronald M. Toguchi Andrew & Shirley Arakaki Jason Louie Brian & Faith Tokeshi Miles T. Arakaki Melvin & Nancy Masuda Stanley S. Tokuda Mae Chung Kathleen Matsuda Sharon Toyama Skye Coo Darnell Barbara Y. Mishima Raymond & Toyo Trader Jill Fukui Linda Jean Miyahira Greg & Kristine Uramoto George & Blanche Galasinao Dwayne Miyashiro Agnes Yamaguchi Clara Goto (2) Patrick Miyashiro Jana Yamashiro Terry Lee L. Goya Kenneth & Frances Miyazono Yasuo & Irene Yamashiro Steven Gushi Hazel (Teruya) Murakami Carl & Sandra Yanagi Reiko Harris Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Murakami Keone Young Carolina Higa Norman Nago In memory of Walter Chur by Jean C. Chur Michael Higa Mr. & Mrs. Manabu Nakamoto In memory of Sachio Isagawa by Patsy R. Isagawa Ross & Lorna Higa Hatsuko Nakata In memory of Masei & Kama Miyasato by Eleanor Hoshide Don & Leona Hongo Sally S. Nakata In memory of Roy H. Tominaga by Sunny S. Tominaga Thelma Ho Florence Nashiro In memory of Helen K. Yamanuha by Bert Yamanuha Chantel Ikehara Kenn & Iris Nishihira In loving memory of Patrick L Shaw (Yara by Janet S. Shaw) Betty Inada Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Nishimura In honor of Bob Nakasone by Eric Chang Charles Isara Robert S. Nohara In honor of Seijun & Mineko Tamashiro by Sally Sakaitani Pauline Higa Iwamoto Marjorie Okuhara Carol Kadena Roberta Ono Joseph Kamiya Karen Oshiro Donald N. Kaneshiro Doreen Oshiro-Tulang Ellen F. Kaneshiro Mark & Frances Perkins Paul & Shirley Kaneshiro Jason Raquinio Reagan & Rene Kanno Paul & Sumiko Reinertson Kenneth S. Kato Edward & Jane Shiroma Diana F. Kawaguchi Joanne Shoho Diane Kawakami Courtney Takara Alice Kim Chisato Takeda Eric Kimura & Debra Kobashigawa John Tamashiro Alice N. Kishimoto Pamela Tanaka 12 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 Kin Town Donation ahalo to Kin Town, Okinawa, for donating 30,000 yen to HUOA in honor of the 120th Anniversary of Okinawan Immigration to MHawaii. It all started with Toyama Kyuzo – the father of Okinawan Immigration – who is from Kin Town. Toyama helped thousands of Okinawans create what is now the worldwide Uchinanchu network. Thanks to the diligence and strong ties of our Kin Chojin Kai club here in Honolulu HUOA DONATIONS and Kin Town, Okinawa, the two also became Friendship Cities in 2020. December 1 - January 31, 2021 Message from Mayor Hajime Nakama: HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru to We really appreciate the the following donors: support of Jocelyn Ige, Lynn V. C. Y. Chock Miyahira and other members EM Hawaii Inc. of HUOA in helping us form this Friendship City agreement First Hawaiian Bank between Kin Town and Honolulu. Raymond & June Higa We would like to make a donation Stanley & Christine Higa as an expression of our gratitude, Raymond & June Higa and we hope that it can be used to Roy & Doreen Higa support your activities. Colleen H. Hokutan I hope that the coronavirus Ralph & Jean Ige pandemic will end and we look forward to see everyone again Henry & Evelyn Isara in 2021. Christopher Ifuku Iwamura Kin Town’s Mayor Hajime Nakama JTB Cultural Exchange Corp. Takashi Kajiwara JTB Donation Robert & Jeanne Kaneshiro ahalo to the JTB Cultural Exchange Corporation for its continu- George S & Joyce S. Kaneshiro ous support of the HUOA, even during these tough times! The JTBM Cultural Exchange Corporation (JCEC) makes donations to organiza- Richard & Gwendolyn Maeda tions that contribute to cultural exchange between and the United Molly Nakahara States and decided to support the HUOA with a $2,000 donation. Chris Obizoza On December 17, they visited the Hawaii Okinawa Center and present- Jeffrey Ono ed Jon Itomura with the $2,000 gift. Oroku Azajin Club Doris Oshiro Milton Tamanaha Carolyn Tengan Dexter & Val Teruya Sandra & Miles Yasui In Memory of Margaret Okaneku Asato by Rodney Kohagura In Memory of Nancy Akamine Arizumi by Rodney Kohagura In Memory of Winnie Detwiler by Fidelity Charitable In Memory of Hatsue Higa by Hui O Laulima In Memory of Janet Matsu Hirata by Rodney Kohagura In Memory of Herbert Hayashi by Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai In Memory of Thomas I. Isara by Ronald and Carol Miyashiro (L-R): Christopher Li and JTB Honolulu Branch Manager Kyoji “Kevin” Koitabashi, President In Memory of Harold Toshi Kaneshiro by Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai of JTB Hawaii Mr. Kitagawa, Jon Itomura, and the president of Tachibana Enterprises Tatsuo In Memory of Annie Uyehara by Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai Watanabe, responsible for JTB Hawaii public relations. In Memory of Betsy Sakihara by Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai In Memory of Paul S. Tengan & Les Jun Higa by Tengan Bohannon Hui Makaala Announces DONATION the Shinki Kuniyoshi Clifford & Jaye Kobashigawa Sueo & Ruby Uehara Memorial Scholarship By Kevin Higa ui Makaala is happy to announce a new component to the current Scholarship Program—the Shinki Kuniyoshi Memorial Scholarship awardH beginning this 2021 school year. Hui Makaala has been awarding scholarships since 1947 and are proud of the hundreds of recipients that have completed their educational careers to become the leaders of yesterday, today and our future. Shinki Kuniyoshi was a 1952 Hui Makaala scholarship recipient and went on to become a successful civil engineer with his own Honolulu firm of Sato-Kuniyoshi Associates. Shinki attained his undergraduate degree at UH Manoa and his graduate degree at the University of Illinois. Shinki passed away at an early age of 41 with his wife, the former Hanako Lydia Nakama from Maui, by his side. Hanako graduated from Roosevelt High School and UH Manoa with a degree in Education and has since joined Shinki. The Kuniyoshis are proud parents of three children—Dr. Julie Kuniyoshi, California, Jon and Todd (Maria Chun) Kuniyoshi of Oahu. The four-year scholarship award back in 1952 while attending Maui High assisted Shinki to obtaining his graduate degree and being so appreciative Shinki vowed to give back to the community. Shinki has, indeed, given back to Hui Makaala with an incredibly generous bequest. Hui Makaala is so grateful that its scholarship program has a sound legacy with the addition of the Shinki Kuniyoshi Memorial Scholarship. Scholarship application forms can be obtained by visiting the Hui Makaala website at: www.huimakaala.org,, or through high schools around the state. The deadline for 2021 applicants is May 31, 2021. January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 13

Hui O Laulima Virtually Installs New Officers for 2021 ot to be deterred by the pandemic, the women of Hui o Laulima virtually elected and installed its new officers for 2021 during their lastN meeting of 2020. The officers took their oath of office from then-HUOA President Lynn Miyahira. They are as follows: President - Gwen Fujie Corresponding Secretary - Miyoko Hata President-Elect - Jane Au Treasurer - Sonnette Muramoto 1st Vice President - Cynthia Uza Asst. Treasurer - Bertha Arakawa This photo is a hands-to-heart Zoom photo of their first meeting of 2021. 2nd Vice President - Jocelyn Ige Auditor - Bobbi Kuba learning experiences along with fellowship and fun among its members. Recording Secretary - Laura Ajimine Immediate Past President - Audrey Gibo They are 303 members strong and have for years put on the cultural dis- Hui o Laulima is a diverse group of women ages 20-plus to 90-plus play at the Okinawan Festival as well as the annual summer Children’s who are interested in “giving a helping hand” (“laulima”), preserving, Day Camp. Anyone interested in learning more about HOL can contact perpetuating, and promoting Okinawan culture and the arts, and sharing [email protected]. Aza Gushikawa Welcomes in the New Year By Wendy Horikami za Gushikawa Doshi Kai rang in the New Year on Saturday, January 31, 2021 by conducting a Drive-Through Bento pickup at JikoenA Temple. Each of the 110 participating member families received a bag of rice and gift card along with their pre-ordered bentos and andagi to celebrate the Year of the Ox. Children and those individuals who attained the auspicious age of 80 were recognized with specially designed gift bags. Congratulations to this year’s lucky drawing winners Daniel and Diana Tengan! Daniel is the son of club founder, issei Dr. James H. Tengan.

Shinnen Enkai welcome banner. Pre-ordered Bento distribution.

Shinnen Enkai entrance. Check-in tent

Grand prize and grand prize winner. 14 Uchinanchu January/February 2021 HUOA YouTube Channel Turns 1 By Clarisse Kobashigawa The term “sweat equity” has taken on a new gety known to man. meaning for the HUOA. While Uchinanchu Year 1- Interesting Stats: Often shifting between the Chaya and the have always been known for their work ethic 2400 New Subscribers Legacy Hall, they constantly sought to make – as showcased year after year in the physical- 2 Million Minutes Watched the viewer’s experience better and better, often ly demanding event known as the Okinawan 21 Countries Reached digging into their own pockets to enhance the Festival – in 2020, the term has taken on a dif- 11,000,000,000 Calories Consumed Watching visual experience for a global audience – strang- ferent meaning as we hastened to find a new Weekly Yuntakus & Virtual Events ers united by the common bond of celebrating way of doing things. Just ask Chris Agena, for- and perpetuating Okinawan culture. mer VP of the Communications and Information The HUOA receives a few cents for every commer- DJ spearheaded the prep that occurred ear- Committee, and Chris Iwamura, member of the cial that’s played, so an easy way to help HUOA finan- lier in the week or the week before, taking extra newly formed Digital Media Team. cially is to keep our videos on repeat and watch them precaution with Chris Iwamura to film perfor- On January 23, 2021, the HUOA YouTube over and over again. mances on stage or out in the Takakura garden Channel officially turned one. And if this past If you’re enjoying our HUOA YouTube content, while abiding by COVID-19 rules. Add to that it’s important that viewers subscribe to our HUOA year was any indication of the value it brings to the hours spent interviewing guests ahead of YouTube channel and click the notify option. By sub- a world still searching for the “new normal,” it’s scribing, viewers will be notified whenever we post the show, developing content so that each show definitely here to stay. new videos and schedule a live stream event such as had a special one-of-a-kind feel. This past year was battered by one unfore- Yuntaku Live. Our subscription count is also essential Add to that the hours spent in pre-produc- seeable event after the next. Just when we began for HUOA in promoting our culture and events through tion, editing and prepping video content prior to ask, “Could this possibly get any worse?” We video. The higher the subscription count, the more to the weekly shows and, after each show, were reminded that yes, yes it can. YouTube assists in spreading our content to viewers in post-production, ensuring that each new Thankfully, we had the weekly “Yuntaku who may be interested in HUOA. The higher subscrip- episode was ready for upload to the HUOA Live” shows to turn to each week. For one to tion count also helps in our fundraising efforts through YouTube channel. Hours were spent break- one-and-a-half hours every Tuesday, one could our YouTube ad revenue sharing program. It’s really ing down the backdrops, cameras, computers, tune out the week’s events and escape into what easy to subscribe and it’s FREE! You can go to Youtube. screens, lights and wires…and in a blink of an was comfortable and known…while learning com and search “Hawaii United Okinawa Association”. eye the next week was upon them. A special important lessons about the history and culture Click on our HUOA Youtube channel and click on the thank you goes out to our next generation – big red “Subscribe” button! of the Okinawans. Tapping into that knowledge Jacob Higa and Copeland Talkington – for con- through song and dance reassured us that we tributing their time and effort to assist with the could get through times of uncertainty just as our ancestors did. weekly Yuntaku Live shows. Our weekly hosts – Immediate Past President Lynn Miyahira, President- Thus, “sweat equity” can’t even come close to describing the dedica- Elect David (“DJ”) Jones, and Executive Director Jon Itomura – virtually tion of this group that single-handedly created and then turned the HUOA stepped into our homes and made us all feel that we were a collective body YouTube Channel into a channel that reached out to an unknown audience of one no matter where we happened to live. The platform that made the and provided comfort and joy when it was so badly needed. weekly talk story series a worldwide event was the serendipitous pre-lock- The newly installed officers extend their sincere thank you for the count- down birth of the HUOA YouTube Channel in January 2020 by Chris Agena. less hours that have been poured into the HUOA YouTube channel in just Lynn Miyahira recalls, “Little did we know how important the HUOA one year and hope to see it further succeed and grow. Happy Birthday YouTube channel would become. COVID-19 forced us to reach out to mem- HUOA YouTube Channel! bers in new ways and the HUOA YouTube channel proved to be a hugely successful resource for us to reach our current members, as well as new audi- ences around the world.” Ehime Maru Cleaning Our engaging hosts brought on guest after guest each week and provided n February 6, HUOA Executive Council members participated an entertaining look at all facets of the Hawaii-Okinawan connection and in the clean-up of the Ehime Maru Memorial at Kakaako Park in culture. But the success of each episode depended on a lot of prep work and Honolulu.O The Ehime Maru, a high school training ship from Japan, was behind-the-scenes work. Week after week, a dedicated crew of volunteers tragically struck on February 9, 2001 by the USS Greenville submarine, made their way to the HOC and set up a spiderweb of backdrops, lighting, killing nine. Various prefectural groups and Japanese organizations help cameras, tables, computers, microphones, and all things electronic and gad- to maintain the memorial throughout the year. Family members from Japan arrive annually to attend the memorial service. Mensorewelcome! Mensore Dr. Ohno On February 2, Dr. Shun Ohno, a professor from Seisun University in , visited the Hawaii Okinawa Center at the invitation of Dr. Rick Higashionna. Dr. Ohno is currently conducting research on Japanese and Okinawan immigration to Hawaii, including how cultural influences and involvement have impacted fourth, fifth, and sixth generation Hawaii Okinawans.

(L-R): Eric Nitta, Aolani Yamasato-Gragas, Pat Miyashiro, Clarisse Kobashigawa and Chikako Nago.

HUOA librarian Charlene Nekomoto, Dr. Rick Higashionna, Dr. Shun Ohno and Jon Itomura. (L-R): Pat Miyashiro, Terry Goya, Roy Arakaki, Dave Arakawa and Jon Itomura. January/February 2021 Uchinanchu 15 and Zoom became the method of meeting communication. John Tasato led the group. Tri-chairpersons of the event were Ellen Higa, Robbie Umeno and Sandy Nishimoto. The many committee members worked diligently and tirelessly toward a first and very successful virtual “Uchinanchu of the Year” and Installation Celebration Ginowan Shijin Kai News with prepaid drive-thru pick- By Jane Nakamura up bentos. anuary 16, 2021. Patrick Miyashiro was installed as President of HUOA The Ginowan Shijin Kai in a virtual celebration. Sandra Nishimoto was honored as Ginowan New Year Shinnen Enkai ShijinJ Kai’s Uchinanchu of the Year. held on March 8, 2020 was 2020 was a year like no other year we have experienced! Except for our last club celebration. our New Year’s celebration, planned activities were cancelled because of This happy event was pub- the coronavirus and City mandates initiated on March 23 that essentially lished in the March/April “locked down” Oahu to keep residents safe. 2020 HUOA Newsletter. A We looked forward to the fun and gatherings of the annual picnic combined 2021 Shinnen Enkai planned for August 9, 2020 but they were cancelled. The Okinawan Festival and picnic event to be held chaired by president-elect Patrick Miyashiro was also cancelled, but instead virtually is tentatively being it was held “virtually.” These annual events usually brought together friends planned for July 2021. More and families locally, from the mainland and Japan. details to follow. Pat organized and ran a successful online drive-thru andagi sale on July Pat with Ginowan Club tri-chairs: Elaine Higa, The current Ginowan 19. Several clubs were involved in the event. Ginowan Club mixed the batter Robbie Umeno and Sandy Nishimoto. Shijin Kai officers will con- for the andagi with task assignments made prior to the date. A short meeting, tinue for 2021, President: Sandra Nishimoto, Vice President: Joy Schoonover, temperature and health were checked before starting the mixing process at Treasurer: Garrett Iha, and Secretary: Carol Kohagura. Advisors and Aza 6 a.m. Representatives will also continue to serve. Contact your Aza representatives Planning for Pat’s installation as president began in October 2020. Because for any club concerns. of the pandemic restrictions, face-to-face group meetings were impossible Volunteers Christmas Trees Mark 120th Anniversary Drive-thru of Okinawan Immigration ue to COVID-19 restrictions, we switched the traditional Volunteer ayor Kirk Caldwell directed the planting of a grove of trees at Luncheon to a Drive-Thru Bento pick-up on December 21, 2020. Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park to commemorate IppeeD nifee deebiru to our Gardeners, Kin Gardeners, Monday Crafters, theM 120th anniversary of Okinawan immigration to Hawaii and the 60th HOT Video Crew, librarians and office volunteers who have been very Anniversary of the Sister-City relationship between Honolulu and Naha. supportive during these very unusual times. The 16 Rainbow Shower trees were planted near the southern entrance of the popular park on December 30, 2020, Managing Director Roy Amemiya was joined by members of the HUOA, Council Chair Emeritus Ron Menor, Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation Director Michele Nekota, park and urban forestry staff for the planting and dedication. A delegation from Naha led by its Mayor Mikiko Shiroma was planning a visit to Honolulu in May 2020. The coronavirus pandemic put a halt to those plans; instead, this planting of trees and the dedication of a plaque to mark the event took place.

(L-R): Sandy Yanagi, Laura Ajimine, Jane Tateyama, June Tamashiro, Kaaren Takara, Renette Nakasone, Bonnie Miyashiro, Caro Higa and Corinne Takara.

(L-R): Council Chair Emeritus Ron Menor, Managing Director Roy Amemiya, 2020 HUOA President Lynn Miyahira, 2021 HUOA President Patrick Miyashiro, Hawaii Shuri-Naha Club President Greg Kuwazaki, Oroku Aza Jin Club Representative Beverly Tayra, Oroku Doshi Kai President Kelly Brown, and HUOA Executive Director Jon Itomura. Okinawan Proverb Uchinaa-guchi () Aratama nu tushi ni tan tu kuubu kazati kukuru kara shigata wakaku nayusa Word of the Month January English: Tan, n. Same as shimi Decorate with charcoal and kelp on New Years and you Shimi, n. Charcoal. Also tan. will become younger at heart and body February Source: Komago ni tsutaetai shimakutuba, Kugani Kutuba. Okinawa Kuubu, n. Sea tangle, kelp, sea weed Proverb. By Muneharu Zamami (Excerpted, with permission, from the Okinawan-English Wordbook, by Mitsugu Sakihara, edited by Stewart Curry, University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, 2006) Important notes for our March-April calendar entries: Our new episodes premiere on the first and third Saturday of the month at 7 pm and repeat the following Thursdays at 5 pm on ‘Olelo Community *Any event not already cancelled or postponed will be subject to Media Channel NATV 53. All our shows are submitted in high definition change given the unforeseen actions that may be taken by the (HD) format (except some older re-run episodes). ‘Olelo currently offers State and County, including entries marked ‘TBD’ HD programming on Hawaiian Telcom’s channels 1049 and 1053. ** All 2021 EC and BOD meetings will be conducted on ZOOM All ‘Olelo shows are streamed on the Internet at www.olelo.org. Our lat- video conference until further notice est shows are available on-demand on the same ‘Olelo website at: What’s on; OleloNet Video On demand; then search for keyword “Okinawa”. The March 2021 HUOA website www.huoa.org has links to the site. 10 Executive Council meeting, ZOOM Video Conference This TV schedule is also available on the HUOA website, which will be 7pm updated should any changes occur. 24 Board of Directors mtg, ZOOM Video Conference 7pm Because of the pandemic, ‘Olelo has allowed us to show previously aired shows in place of new shows. So, we are taking advantage of that, 27 Virtual Class: Karate Man, Origami Making 11am-noon; and you will see some re-runs of episodes that we hope you will enjoy. please see ad in this issue of Uchinanchu You can express your choices by emailing [email protected]. Mar 6 Sat 7 pm, Mar 11 & 18 Thurs 5 pm -(Re-run) HUOA Highlights April 2021 2018, the many activities of HUOA throughout the year 2018. 14 Executive Council meeting, ZOOM Video Conference Mar 20 Sat 7 pm, Mar 25 & Apr 1 Thurs 5 pm -(Re-run) Amawari, the 7pm Lord of Kimutaka Spirit, Show One. The performance is the contem- 22 HUOA Karii Event postponed to 4/21/22 porary version of an outstanding historical play of the (Kumiodori) performed by the students of junior and senior high schools in , Okinawa. Directed by Daiichi Hirata, this event was held at the IMPORTANT: All entries listed below continue to be on hold Hawaii Okinawa Center on November 28, 2008. until further notice. Apr 3 Sat 7 pm, Apr 8 & 15 Thurs 5 pm -(Re-run) Amawari, the Lord Classes • Other Meetings at Hawaii Okinawa Center of Kimutaka Spirit, Show Two. The performance is the contempo- HUOA rary version of an outstanding historical play of the Ryukyu Kingdom (Kumiodori) performed by the students of junior and senior high schools Ichi Go Ichi E in Uruma, Okinawa. Directed by Daiichi Hirata, this event was held at the Ikebana Hawaii Okinawa Center on November 28, 2008. Karaoke nite Apr 17 Sat 7 pm, Apr 22 Thurs 5 pm -(Re-run) Amawari, the Lord Monday Crafters of Kimutaka Spirit, Show Three. The performance is the contempo- Okinawan Genealogical Society mtgs rary version of an outstanding historical play of the Ryukyu Kingdom (Kumiodori) performed by the students of junior and senior high schools Uchinaaguchi in Uruma, Okinawa. Directed by Daiichi Hirata, this event was held at the Hawaii Okinawa Center on November 28, 2008. *Subject to Change (entries as of 2/17/21) BENTOS FOR EVERYONE! Seasonal Bento Specials Ready-to-Eat Okazuya Bento - $9.00/person Mochiko Chicken · Hash Patty Shoyu Hot Dog · Spam Chow Fun · Fried Rice Hawaiian Bento - $15.00/person Kalua Pig · Laulau Awapuhi Chicken · Poi Steamed White Rice · Lomi Salmon Macaroni Salad · Haupia Square Filipino Bento - $11.55/person Pork Adobo · Chicken Inasal Fish Sarciado · Pancit Garlic Fried Rice Keiki Bento - $5.00/person Boneless Teriyaki Chicken Nori Musubi · Vegetable Tempura Tamagoyaki

TO PLACE AN ORDER, CALL (808) 677-7744 Minimum order of five (5) bentos. Please place orders 4 days in advance. While supplies last