APRIL 1-14, 2011

PAGE 4 Japanese Americans of the Jet Age.

RECOVERY IN JAPAN HELPING THE HELPLESS PAGE 7 JACL, Japanese Americans Casinos target step up fundraising efforts. Asian Americans. PAGE 3 Father- daughter duo on ʻThe Biggest Loser.ʼ

AP PHOTO/MARK BAKER

# 3164 VOL. 152, NO. 6 ISSN: 0030-8579 WWW.PACIFICCITIZEN.ORG PAGE APRIL 91-14, 2011 2 apr. 1-14, 2011 LETTERS/COMMENTARY PACIFIC CITIZEN

how to reach us letters to the editor E-mail: [email protected] Online: www.pacificcitizen.org Civil Discourse Payback Comments Tel: (213) 620-1767 Fax: (213) 620-1768 on Immigration are Distasteful Mail: 250 E. First Street, Suite 301 Los Angeles, CA 90012 While I welcome a vigorous These comments, especially Staff debate on immigration, I also in regards to the Pearl Harbor Executive Editor feel that we should be committed attack, are because of fear and Caroline Y. Aoyagi-Stom to a civil discourse informed by lack of information (“Amid Assistant Editor Lynda Lin thorough research and evidence Rescue Efforts in Quake-hit (“Ariz. Immigration” letter, March Japan, Racist Comments are Reporter Nalea J. Ko 4-17). Rampart on the Web”, Pacific Federal social services require Business Manager Citizen, March 18-31). Staci Hisayasu citizenship. Moreover, we must I personally overheard a remember that immigrants — Circulation photo: lauren kanegawa/brooks institute person say: “Japan’s a rich Eva Lau-Ting sanctioned and undocumented — country — let them just help Advertising Representative are significant contributors to our themselves” shortly after the Brad Kiyomura Don’t Forget About Books economy. They are consumers, and earthquake and tsunami. The Pacific Citizennewspaper thus pay taxes, and toil in some (ISSN: 0030-8579) is published In regards to the Pacific Citizen article “Cultural Disconnect Among Franklin Roosevelt was an of the most grueling, unsafe jobs semi-monthly (except once in De- Japanese American Youth” in the March 4-17 issue, I would like to active participant in the events cember and January) by the Japa- with little to no avenues for social remind your readers that there is another way to learn about Japanese leading up to Pearl Harbor. nese American Citizens League, mobility. Pacific Citizen, American history besides learning it in school and talking to your In the book “Day of Deceit” Our economy, unfortunately, is 250 E. 1st Street, Suite 301, Los elders. It’s called “books.” by Robert B. Stinnet, many of Angeles, CA 90012 dependent upon maintaining an In the Indianapolis public library system, for example, there are 68 the events leading up to the Periodical postage paid at L.A., CA underground and exploited labor POSTMASTER: send address books about the internment (cataloged under “Japanese Americans- attack are clearly defined. The market. I am proud that the JACL changes to National JACL, 1765 Evacuation and Relocation, 1942-1945”). attack was really not a surprise Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 has taken a courageous stance The titles range from books appropriate for small children to — not to Roosevelt anyway — on immigration reform and is JACL President: David Kawamoto books by historians to the report of the Commission on Wartime and this should be known to all. National Director: Floyd Mori fighting against demonization of Relocation and Internment of Civilians, as well as oral histories Comments such as “payback” P.C. editorial board all immigrants. and books of photographs. Books make nice graduation gifts, too. are not right Judith Aono, chairperson; Paul Niwa, EDC; Kevin Miyazaki, MDC; J. deGuzman Bobbi Hanada, CCDC; vacant, NC- Nancy N. Conner San Fernando Valley Jon I. Takata WNPDC; Hugh Burleson, PNWDC; via email JACL Board Member Thornton, Colorado Jeff Itami, IDC; Cindi Harbottle, PSWDC; Sonya Kuki, Youth subscribe spring campaign national director’s report Get a one-year subscription of the Pacific Citizen newspaper at: www.pacificcitizen.org or call Warm Spring Thoughts (800) 966-6157 JACL Membership Advertise By Kevin J. Miyazaki To advertise in the Pacific Citizen, call (800) 966-6157 or e-mail: is an Ongoing Issue [email protected] As I sit at my desk writing during the LEGAL last week of March, I see freshly fallen By Floyd Mori No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express per- snow on the ground outside my window. mission of the Pacific Citizen. In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where I live, Thank you to all those who contributed Editorials, news and the opinions ex- Spring can arrive painfully late. to the JACL during the recent year-end pressed by columnists other than the national JACL president or national di- I am a product of the Midwest. And my giving program. We are very grateful for rector do not necessarily reflect JACL life here is a result of Japanese American your support. policy. Events and products advertised history, as my father’s family chose to Although corporate funds have in the Pacific Citizen do not carry the implicit endorsement of the JACL or settle in the Midwest after the war, rather been secured in recent years and have this publication. We reserve the right to than return to their former home and been beneficial to help run the JACL’s edit articles. © 2011 life in Tacoma, Washington. My mother various programs, it remains a fact Periodicals paid at Los Angeles, arrived later from her native Hawaii, and for some reason found the that the JACL is a membership driven Calif and mailing office. aforementioned weather agreeable enough to stay for the past 56 years. organization. The major monies for the Milwaukee is not unlike other cities away from the West Coast, in that operations of the organization are still JACL MEMBERS our JA community is a small one, and our JACL chapter is shrinking as derived from the membership dues. Change of our Nisei members age. On a recent trip to California, I was reminded National JACL is operating with some key positions remaining Address unfilled because of budgetary concerns. This makes increased work for see MIYAZAKI/page 13 the JACL staff, who should be commended for the good work they do If you’ve moved, with limited resources. please send new It is no secret that the JACL membership has been decreasing due information to: National JACL Spring Campaign to our members aging and passing on without enough younger people Help support the Pacific Citizen by donating today! 1765 Sutter St. to replace those who leave us. Now, as we go forward, we must do our San Francisco, CA name part as JACL members to build our membership base. We have been 94115 focusing on reaching out to young potential members. Allow 6 weeks for address address changes. see MORI/page 13 city S tate zip To avoid interrup- J0uly 7-1 tions in delivery, e-mail tel please notify your postmaster to q $50 q $100 q $150 include periodicals Mail to: Donate $150 or more in your change of to become a Wall of q $200 q other Pacific Citizen 14 Famer; $200 or more address (USPS for a chance to win a 250 E. First Street, Suite 301 weeks Mexican cruise! Mexican cruise prize donated by the Los Angeles, CA. 90012 Form 3575) NATIONAL JACL CREDIT UNION www.jacl.org/convention PACIFIC CITIZEN IN-DEPTH APR. 1-14, 2011 3 Japan Earthquake Fundraising Spikes, Nuclear Disaster Worsens The JUSA joined forces with other student American donors have dipped into photo: mark baker/ap their pocketbooks to help those organizations for a three-day event to raise in need following the devastating funds for the disaster in Japan. A total of earthquake that struck Japan. $8,000 was raised and 2,000 paper cranes were made in an effort to help. By Nalea J. Ko Members of the Olympia JACL chapter Reporter in Washington state held two events to also raise awareness about the recent devastation Fundraising efforts for Japan have revved in Japan. up nationwide as the nuclear crisis in the “This has a huge impact for us as Japanese country intensifies. Americans simply because Japan is part Donations from American donors for of our heritage, ancestral, and cultural the Japan earthquake and tsunami disasters awareness that we recognize and are very totaled over $161 million on March 25, proud of,” said Bob Nakamura, the president according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy. of the Olympia JACL. Nakamura says over American Red Cross has raised about $1,200 was raised, which will go to Direct two-thirds of the total donations collected. Relief International. The surge in donations comes two weeks The JACL partnered with Direct Relief after a 9.0 earthquake struck Japan, which International to create the Japan Relief and generated a tsunami. To date about 10,668 Recovery Fund. Direct Relief International are reported dead and some 16,574 people as of March 24 raised more than $1.9 are missing, according to Japanese police. million. The inundation of news coverage on the “The immediate need is cash in order to tragedy is overwhelming to some Japanese purchase the needed supplies,” said Floyd residents. Mori, JACL national director. “We looked a “I barely want to watch the news due to little bit further to determine what supplies the sadness of the tragedy,” said 34-year-old they were sending and who they were Kumi Sone Mendoza, a Japanese American helping. Their target has been the disabled living in Tokyo. “Every day since the quake and elderly and they have supplied fuel, and tsunami [it] is all they are showing on personal items, food, and blankets.” TV. But in the beginning of this situation, Those working in the devastated areas I honestly felt that they were ‘hiding’ the near Sendai say they are concerned about truth.” helping displaced residents with their long- Making recovery efforts more complicated term needs. is the developing nuclear disaster in Japan “I saw more people who have gotten that seems to worsen by the day. The the common cold by living in the crowded Fukushima Daiichi power plant, which shelters,” said 35-year-old Nahoko Harada, is northeast of Tokyo, was crippled by the New England JACLer and a registered nurse tsunami that hit Japan’s northeastern coast. who is working in shelters near Sendai. The facility’s power system that cools “Food, water and medication are vital for the nuclear fuel rods was destroyed in the a couple of months. But then people need tsunami. houses, jobs, education, and money which Officials with the Tokyo Electric Power they have lost.” Organizations in the U.S. are also helping Co., which owns the facility, said March 28 photo: nalea j. ko (Top) A mother feeds her that radioactive water was leaking from the to raise awareness about the tragedy in Japan baby at an evacuation facility. Traces of plutonium were also found amongst the youth. center in Yamagata in the soil outside on March 28. “Japan’s recovery will take years, and March 24. Hundreds Fears and anxiety over the crippled nuclear we hope to keep raising the awareness of of thousands remain plant in Japan are now spreading across the the younger generations,” said Saki Miata, homeless, squeezed world as other countries report finding traces the founder of Konnichwa Little Tokyo, a into temporary shelters without heat, warm food of radiation. nonprofit that introduces foster children to Japanese culture and history. “We need to or medicine and no idea “I think it’s far less serious than what to call home. Chernobyl,” said Naj Meshkati, a nuclear continuously meditate and send our positive energy toward the victims.” power plant safety expert at the University of In Little Tokyo (left), Students at Martin Luther King High Southern California, on March 23. “Because Japanese Americans step in the case of Chernobyl that started with an School in Riverside, Calif. will hit the stage up fundraising efforts for explosion of the reactor. Then there was not on April 1 to perform in hopes of raising earthquake and tsunami a containment dome to keep the radioactive funds for Japan. victims. material inside. In this case the reactors have “The students and I wanted to take the not exploded, thank God.” opportunity to find a way in helping. What explained 56-year-old Keiko Tanaka, a Daiichi power plant on March 24. Nuclear The 1986 accident at the Chernobyl better way to help them than to provide professor at Meiji Gakuin University. “I experts say power plant workers are putting Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine is considered music for a fundraiser,” said Charles Gray, have about 30 bottles — enough for my their lives at risk by saving the plant. the worst nuclear plant disaster in history. band director. family for a month.” Some say this nuclear accident is more than News of the nuclear disaster in Japan Fundraising efforts continue nationwide However some Tokyo residents are one country can handle and the international is changing daily, prompting Japanese as fears of contaminated tap water swirl in not worried about fears of contaminated community needs to step in to help. Americans to spring into action. Japan. The news sent Japanese residents to drinking water. “Where is the international atomic “Every time I watch the news, it scares the stores and vending machines in search of “I am personally not too concerned about agency in this situation?” Meshkati said. me, be it the new estimated death toll or bottled water. the tap water here, but I am sure families are “Unfortunately I followed the Chernobyl an update on the nuclear reactor situation,” Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara warned more cautious,” said 34-year-old Edward Yi, accident and I was very disappointed with explained Risa Naka, a senior at Cornell residents on March 23 that tap water was a Korean American living in Tokyo. “I don’t the international community’s response to University and president of the Japan U.S. not safe for infants because of high levels of plan to change anything that I have done that and everything.” Association, or JUSA. “There is a part of me radioactive iodine. with everything that has been going on.” “In this situation we see international that’s frustrated that we can’t do more for “But within a few hours of the news, all Radioactive water seeped into two workers atomic agencies really missing in action Japan and the people in Japan.” the bottled waters have disappeared from the supermarkets and vending machines,” boots and burned their legs at the Fukushima here.” n 4 APR . 1-14, 2011 IN-DEPTH PACIFIC CITIZEN The Japanese Americans of the Jet Age

Former Nisei stewardess Mae Takahashi (pictured here in 1968) sits in the engine of a Pan American airplane that has been diverted in Osaka, Japan during a snowstorm.

To compete with Japan Airlines, Pan American organization of former Pan Am flight attendants. really hard to have wild parties because you’re tired all the World Airways in the early 1950s amassed Through her research Yano documented the Nisei flight time.” a fleet of jets and hired Japanese American attendants’ experiences in the Jet Age. It was an era that “My mother used to tell me whenever I came in from a ‘Nisei stewardesses.’ came only years after the incarceration of JAs during World flight, she says, ‘You never hardly say anything andyou War II. really don’t smile. Were you unhappy about the flight?’” By Nalea J. Ko Pan Am turned to California to recruit Nisei stewardesses said May Tsukiyama, 76, who was one of the original Nisei Reporter for its program, Yano explained. But recruiters had more stewardesses hired in 1955. “I said, ‘No. I was happy about success hiring JAs from Hawaii. the flight. But I was smiling for nine hours and I cannot smile Gone are the days of the glamorous Jet Age that are “The feeling is that it was more difficult to get California anymore.’” memorialized today in vintage advertisements that depict Japanese Americans on board with this very public program, In addition to the exhausting schedule, there were strict dapper passengers dining on full course meals while en route which would put them in the spotlight after spending those dress codes for Pam Am’s flight attendants. to exotic destinations. years in the internment camps, sort of negating a kind of “We had to wear red lipstick. If we wore nail polish it had But a group of Japanese American women are keeping Asian American self,” Yano explained. to be red. We had to wear white gloves during the summer,” the Jet Age alive by reliving their time in the skies as Pan Some of the gatherings Yano attended as part of her Miyahara Kama said. “And also the grooming supervisor American flight attendants. research were a throwback to the Nisei flight attendants’ would actually sort of like, I would say, tap your rear end to “When we flew the women were in hats and gloves. The days during the Jet Age. see that you had a girdle on.” men were in suits. The service: you had a beautiful course- “Think cocktail hour. So they’re dressed up. Some Pan Am collapsed in 1991 and merged with United by-course service,” said Eva Reiko Miyahara Kama, who dancing,” Yano explained with a laugh. “It’s not a wild bunch Airlines, but former flight attendants remain active in World started with Pan Am in about 1964. “It’s not a glamorous at this age, but you can imagine. I would be falling asleep in Wings International. job anymore. All you’re on there for now is safety. That’s the the car afterwards and they would say, ‘Oh, we know she’s There are now about 2,400 members and 30 chapters of main goal: safety. Ours it was safety and service.” not really Pan Am. She can’t keep up with us.’” former Pan Am flight attendants with World Wings. Japanese Americans like Miyahara Kama first donned Some former Pan Am flight attendants like Hawaii resident The Hawaii chapter of World Wings continues to meet their blue, serge Pan American uniforms decades ago, but Mae Takahashi, 72, left careers as teachers behind to work regularly. This year their Hawaii chapter held a garage sale the “Nisei stewardesses” still meet regularly today. for the airline. fundraiser raising over $19,000, which mostly benefitted the They are part of a tradition that began in 1955 when Also a teacher, Miyahara Kama’s decision to become a Saint Francis Hospice in Hawaii. the now defunct Pan American World Airways recruited flight attendant was met with criticism from her family. “We had all kinds of stories to tell about different things Japanese American Nisei flight attendants—or stewardesses “They told me that I was bringing shame upon the family. that happened. And so when we get together it’s kind of as they were then called — to promote its Tokyo-bound They felt that being a stewardess was nothing but a waitress fun because you can talk about all those things,” Takahashi flights. in the sky,” Miyahara Kama explained. “My parents wanted explained. “I guess you know when you have friends during Not all of the flight attendants were Nisei, second to disown me.” a period of your life you remain friends. It’s like a class generation Japanese Americans. Later the program was Others were lured by the glamorous lifestyle of the reunion.” expanded to recruit other Asian Americans, but these women business and flight attendants. It has been decades since most of the former attendants would come to be known as the Nisei stewardesses. “Most people say, ‘Why do you want to be a stewardess?’ have worked with Pan Am, but their pride in the airline still Author Christine Yano, who is also a professor at the And the answer is usually, ‘I love to travel.’ But I hadn’t soars high. University of Hawaii at Manoa, has documented the stories of traveled that much,” Takahashi said, who never went back Despite her family’s objections to her career choice, Pan Am’s Nisei flight attendants in her new book “Airborne to teaching after being hired on with Pan Am in 1963. “My Miyahara Kama said she has never regretted becoming a Dreams,” which was released in January. cousin’s wife was a stewardess. She was just beautiful and flight attendant. Miyahara Kama’s parents eventually grew Yano will be on hand to talk about her book on April 10 at attractive and I really looked up to her. I thought, ‘That to appreciate their daughter’s occupation. Eastwind Books of Berkeley in Northern California. would be a wonderful life.’” “When my parents met people, people would say, ‘Well The author first started her research about the Nisei Despite the perks of being a flight attendant, the former what does your daughter do?’ They’d sort of mumble stewardesses of Pan American World Airways in 2005 when Pan Am employees say it was exhausting and hard work. stewardess or something. But then the second and third year their 50th anniversary luncheon was held. Takahashi says she flew around the world 55 times. I took both my parents on a trip I would take,” Miyahara Many of the retired flight attendants remained friends “They used to talk about these wild stewardesses,” Kama said. “Afterwards my father would say, ‘My daughter over the years and/or joined World Wings International, an Takahashi explained, who now lives in Hawaii where she is is a stewardess with Pan Am.’ the chapter president of the World Wings International. “It’s “He didn’t whisper it anymore.” n PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL APR. 1-14, 2011 5 Asian Americans Aim for ‘Ya es hora’-Style Citizenship The citizenship workshops will Univision and the National Association of “It is better to become a citizen,’’ said start in California and then go Latino Elected and Appointed Officials. Santis, who got help filling out the paperwork national Wang said she has often fielded questions through a local citizenship program. “You about why AA advocates can’t mount a work and you pay taxes and then you don’t By Amy Taxin similar campaign, which led her group to have a right to vote.’’ Associated Press draft a plan to create a naturalization network. Janelle Wong, a political science professor Under the program, AA advocates will host at the University of Southern California, said six large-scale workshops across California once Asian immigrants naturalize, they are LOS ANGELES—Inspired by a highly to offer free assistance in multiple languages relatively high-propensity voters. They are publicized Latino naturalization drive, Asian filling out naturalization forms. also more likely to get involved in politics in Americans are fanning out to help immigrants California is home to about 5 million other ways, for example, by contacting their across California — and eventually the Asians who account for about 13 elected officials. country — become U.S. citizens. percent of the state’s population. Many immigrants, from Asian American advocates say getting Advocates hope to eventually all countries, are reluctant more immigrants to naturalize is crucial expand the effort to other states to apply to become citizens, to flex the political muscle of the state’s with large Asian communities fearing their English isn’t good fastest-growing ethnic group and give such as Texas, Georgia, Nevada enough. Others are thrown off the community a louder voice. And it has ‘It is better and Ohio, said Karen Narasaki, by the $680 expense — often become even more pressing since the country president of the Washington- more if they seek help from a ramped up immigration enforcement, to become based Asian American Justice lawyer. making citizenship a requirement to get Center, an APALC affiliate. a citizen.’ In the California drive — more government contracts and to avoid Asian immigrants are already which is funded by $250,000 in deportation if convicted of a crime. more likely to naturalize than private donations — advocates The task is daunting. In California — Latinos and more than 60 plan to follow up with new home to a third of the country’s Asian — Peggy Santis, percent become U.S. citizens U.S. citizens to make sure they population — dozens of languages are 59-year-old within a decade of getting a are registered to vote. spoken, in addition to dozens of dialects, green card, according to 2005 Thai immigrant Asian immigrants have and myriad often-competing Asian-language statistics from the Department shown a strong interest in media outlets reach diverse segments. of Homeland Security. learning how to become “Everything we have to do is multiple But advocates say many still citizens, though many are in terms of the amount of resources and need help with forms that are skeptical about asking effort,’’ said Karin Wang, vice president of closely scrutinized by immigration officials, questions of the U.S. government. programs at the Los Angeles-based Asian especially older immigrants who may have That’s one of the reasons federal Pacific American Legal Center, which is difficulty with English. authorities rely on community organizations spearheading the drive. Peggy Santis, a 59-year-old Thai immigrant trusted by immigrant communities to help The campaign — which started last who became a citizen recently said having promote naturalization, said Jane Arellano, week with a workshop in the San Gabriel someone help fill out the paperwork makes district director for U.S. Citizenship and Valley’s sizable Chinese and Vietnamese a big difference. Immigration Services in the Los Angeles communities — is modeled after the “Ya es The insurance agent from Anaheim area. hora” citizenship campaign launched by a applied to naturalize last year after living in “That is how we reach our ethnic close-knit partnership between community this country for decades when she realized communities,’’ she said. “They trust their groups, Spanish-language media giant she felt like an American. leadership.’’ n Renewed Call for Confirmation of Edward Chen Chen, a magistrate judge, classified as a “judicial emergency.” has waited longer than any “The American people deserve true access other judicial nominee for a to justice, and our judicial nominees should confirmation vote. not be forced to live in limbo,” said Karen K. Narasaki, president and executive director of the Asian American Justice Center (AAJC). By Pacific Citizen Staff Born and raised in Oakland, Calif., Chen was part of the famed Fred Korematsu President Barack Obama’s pick for a legal team, which successfully overturned judgeship in San Francisco has cleared the Korematsu’s World War II conviction. Senate Judiciary Committee for the fourth In 2001 Chen was appointed as a time giving Asian Pacific American leaders magistrate judge in the Bay Area, and has hope that Edward Chen will be confirmed presided over criminal and civil trials. over a year after his initial nomination. Republican opponents continue to The committee voted 10-8 along party lines question his work with the American Civil March 17 to recommend the confirmation Liberties Union, where he served as a staff of Chen, a magistrate judge whom Obama attorney. first nominated to the U.S. district court in In 2007, the Bar Association of San August 2009. Francisco named Chen “Judge of the Year”. Facing Republican opposition, Democratic His other accolades include the Bay Area leaders have not brought Chen up for a Asian Pacific American Law Students Senate floor vote. Obama has re-nominated The seat Chen has been nominated to is classified as a ‘judicial emergency.’ Association Conference, Unity Award, him twice. Minority Bar Coalition and Building Bridges Asian Pacific American leaders are Lifetime Achievement Award, among others. renewing their call for a Senate confirmation we urge the Senate to give him the up-or- (NAPABA). He has also served on the board of without additional delay. down vote that he rightly deserves,” said Chen has waited longer than any other directors for the Chinatown Community “Judge Chen is eminently well-qualified Paul O. Hirose, president of the National judicial nominee for a confirmation vote. Development Corporation and the Asian to serve as a U.S. district court judge, and Asian Pacific American Bar Association The seat that he has been nominated to is American Bar Association. n 6 APR. 1-14, 2011 NATIONAL CONVENTION PACIFIC CITIZEN ‘Project: Community!’: Not Just a Summer Project college, other than the fact that I enjoyed the and community leaders who were working our counselors — who spoke about the need Japanese programs I could pursue at my own on a mural design of a growing tree that and importance of youth involvement in the leisure, as the opportunities were available. represented Little Tokyo — symbolic of further development of the community — Of course, looking at the consistent history the generations that have contributed to the were not just talking the talk, but walking it. of my activities and involvement with the JA growth and development of Little Tokyo The counselors were young and actively community and continuous and our community. And yet I working in the community, providing a study of the language, it was about to stunt the growth relatable and positive example. Never seems obvious that it had a of my own tree of knowledge before had I seen such genuine passion for much greater bearing upon ‘As the next of the importance of the JA the community as I did here, especially in me than just a hobby. community when it was just my mural project group. I was fortunate to But I didn’t actually generation, about to bloom. have Craig Ishii and Kristin Fukushima as By Molly Serizawa realize this until I it’s our What came to life in me my group counselors who, for me, embody participated in “Project: was the realization of my what it means to be a JA youth working in I grew up with a mom and grandparents Community!” To say responsibility true passion and sense of the community. who upheld traditional Japanese customs it was a life-changing obligation to my community. As the next generation, it’s our so I recognized that my Japanese American experience would be an to continue More than a year later, responsibility to continue our ancestors’ ethnicity was integral to my family, although understatement. our ancestors’ I have since transferred to efforts so that we can procure a future that I largely took it for granted. Just one week after the a school with a Japanese is as inspiring and beneficial for generations Up until the summer of 2009, when program ended, I was efforts so that language program and JA to come. “Project: Community!” taught me I participated in JACL PSW’s “Project: bound for Reed College students because I felt an that this isn’t just a summer project — it’s Community!” just before my freshman (Portland, Oregon), where we can procure acute cultural disconnect a lifetime commitment to our future as a year of college, I didn’t really know what there was no Japanese a future that is from the community I community. n it meant to be JA. Or, what it meant to be a language program and call home. If it wasn’t for part of that community. hardly any JAs. Something as inspiring and “Project: Community!” I Molly Serizawa is currently a sophomore at This may sound nonsensical since I’ve in me had changed during really don’t know when or Scripps College. been involved with the JA community “Project: Community!” beneficial for if I would have realized how from childhood, participating in everything Towards the end of the generations to much the community means JACL NATIONAL CONVENTION from Camp Musubi, OSULA summer program while my group to me. camp, Wakaba Japanese School, Yonsei 12 was working on our final come.’ What struck me most Join us at the July 7-10 JACL national basketball team, Nikkei Federation Rising mural project — our theme about the program was the convention in Los Angeles to participate Stars Youth Leadership Program, to serving was “Little Tokyo: Past, talented, passionate and in workshops and discussion tracks such as a teacher’s assistant and tutor in my high Present, and Future” — it determined individuals who as ‘Civic Engagement and Leadership school’s AP Japanese program. suddenly dawned on me what I would be came together to learn more about the JA Development’ and ‘Community Admittedly, I could not acknowledge why leaving behind. community and ensure its preservation. The Preservation and Development.’ it was important to continue my pursuits in There I was, surrounded by students most intriguing part of the program was that

Registration Packages 42nd JACL42nd JACLNATIONAL NATIONAL CONVENTION By 5/31 After 5/31 “JACL 2.0 - Making New Waves” Convention Package $250 $300 ______CONVENTION (incl Conference) Los Angeles July 7-10, 2011 Convention Package $200 $250 ______July 7-10, 2011 (incl Conference) After 41 Biennial National Conventions, the national JACL REGISTRATION FORM (Youth/Student) community will convene annually for the fi rst time in Los A separate form must be completed for each individual registra- Nikkei Conference Only $50 $75 ______Angeles, California, home of the Pacifi c Southwest District. tion. Additional registration forms are available online, or by email Nikkei Conference Only $25 $50 ______The PSW District is proud to host the 42nd JACL National at [email protected], or by calling (213) 626-4471. (Youth/Student) Convention in the City of Angels. First Name ______Last Name ______Individual Events In conjunction with Convention, JACL and the California Address ______Culmination Banquet $155 $200 ______Japanese American Community Leadership Council City, State ______Zip ______(CJACLC) will co-host the 2011 Nikkei Conference to bring Culmination Banquet $130 $150 ______the National JACL and the Japanese American community Home Phone ______Mobile Phone ______(Youth/Student) together to dialogue, envision, and plan for the future of an Email ______Awards Luncheon $70 $85 ______active and cohesive Japanese American community. Awards Luncheon $60 $75 ______JACL Chapter ______(Youth/Student) This year’s Convention theme: “JACL 2.0 - Making New Vegetarian Meals Yes ______No ______Golf Tournament $110 $125 ______Waves” is representative of the concept of eff ecting change (Hosted by JACL Credit Union) throughout the community. Waves symbolize the energy Special Needs ______from a central point spreading outwards- the way we hope GRAND TOTAL $______that we can mobilize the community to engage in an Payment Method active approach to plan the future of our community and Checks: Please make checks payable to “JACL Pacifi c Southwest On July 9, 2011 JACL will host the 2011 Nikkei Conference in con- reenergize the spirit of our people. District” and mail to: JACL National Convention, 250 E. 1st Street, junction with Convention. Please select which Conference Track Suite 303, Los Angeles, CA 90012 you are most interested in (please select one): Convention Hotel Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa Phone: (323) 856-1200 Credit Card: __AmEx __Visa __MasterCard __Discover ___ Art and Culture ___ Community Investment Cotact the hotel directly and mention “JACL National Con- Name on Card ______Civic Engagement and ___ Historic Preservation Leadership Development and Education vention” or book online: www.jacl.org/convention. Card Number ______Book early! ___ Civil Rights ___ Serving Nikkei Seniors Expiration Date ____/_____ Security Code ______Community Preservation ___ U.S.-Japan Relations We’ll see you Cancellation Policy and Development Cancellations must be received by May 31, 2011 for a 100% refund. in Los Cancellations received between June 1, 2011 and July 1, 2011 will Please mail completed form and payment (if applicable) to: Angeles! receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations JACL National Convention 250 E 1st Street, Suite 303 Los Angeles, after July 1, 2011. CA 90012 PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL APR. 1-14, 2011 7 Student in Anti-Asian Rant Says She’ll Leave UCLA The viral YouTube video was “Especially in the wake of the ongoing posted shortly after the Japan disaster in Japan, I would do anything to earthquake. take back my insensitive words. I could write apology letters all day and night, but By Associated Press I know they wouldn’t erase the video from your memory, nor would they act to reverse my inappropriate action.’’ LOS ANGELES—A student who posted On March 18, university officials said an Internet video of her tirade against they would not discipline Wallace because the Asian population at the her video was an exercise University of California, Los of free speech, not hate Angeles, said March 18 that she speech, and it didn’t violate is leaving the school, despite ‘In an attempt the student code of conduct. the university’s decision not to UCLA’s vice chancellor discipline her. to produce for student affairs, Janina In a statement to the Daily a humorous Montero, said in a statement Bruin campus newspaper, that campus officials were Alexandra Wallace said she YouTube “appalled and offended by has chosen to no longer attend video, I have the sentiments expressed classes at UCLA because of in the video,’’ but it did not what she called “the harassment offended In the infamous YouTube rant, Alexandra Wallace complained about Asians frequently talking seek to harm or threaten a on their mobile phones by saying, ‘Ohhh. Ching chong ling long ting tong.’ of my family, the publishing of the UCLA specific person or group. my personal information, death In the video, Wallace threats and being ostracized community said her complaints aren’t manners’’ and goes on to complain about Wallace took down the rant shortly after from an entire community” in and the entire directed at any individual Asians frequently talking on their mobile posting it March 13, but it had already gone the wake of the three-minute and people shouldn’t take phones while she tries to study. At one point viral and sparked a strong reaction at UCLA, video. Asian culture.’ offense, but “the problem she mocks them saying, “Ohhh. Ching chong where at least 37 percent of the school’s “In an attempt to produce a is these hordes of Asian ling long ting tong.” 26,000 undergraduates are Asian, 32 percent humorous YouTube video, I people that UCLA accepts Wallace suggests in the video that people are white, 16 percent are Hispanic and 4 have offended the UCLA community and into our school every single year.’’ calling to check on the fate of Japan’s percent are black. the entire Asian culture,” Wallace said in the She says the numbers would be fine tsunami victims go outside so they won’t Wallace could not be reached for further statement, her second apology. if Asian students would “use American freak people out if they get bad news. comment. n Crash Highlights Chinese American Gambling Market By Associated Press Another company, Sky Express, charges $12 for a round trip, with a free $60 casino NEW YORK—At age 75, Mon Ling Ng is bonus. hard of hearing and often lonely — a resident Ng celebrated his birthday March 11 by of Manhattan’s Chinatown who finds a way taking to Mohegan a World Wide Travel bus to fill his days: by gambling. that left about six hours before the one that About 30,000 Chinese New Yorkers like crashed. Patrick Kennedy, an unemployed Ng per week board discount buses that take car service chauffeur, was also on the trip. them from Chinatown to casinos outside the On March 14, Kennedy was at the bus city — buses like the one that crashed on a stop, greeting Ng. return trip from a Connecticut casino, killing “Me and you — we made it back!’’ 15 passengers. Kennedy told Ng as they gave each other “I go almost every day; it’s exciting, and I the thumbs up in front of a bus operated by have company,’’ said Ng, who takes a bus to Dwayne Smith, a driver for World Wide. a casino hours away. “Some people go almost every day,’’ The crash is illuminating how casinos Smith said, although only a handful of around New York in many ways treat the people showed up for the March 15 trip, city’s Chinese Americans as their bread and which was canceled. butter, a population with an ancient gambling Mohegan Sun, the casino in Uncasville, Connecticut, from where the doomed bus was Right behind the World Wide bus was tradition that will reliably hand over money. returning last month, caters especially to Chinese American gamblers. another one, run by Sky Express and leaving “If you run a casino, Chinese business is a for Connecticut’s Foxwoods casino at 1 major part of the business,’’ said Peter Yee, p.m. and returning around midnight, driver Chinese American gamblers; its website has $15 for the 200-mile round trip to Mohegan assistant executive director for behavioral Marvin Ha said. a Chinese-language section offering gaming Sun, said Matthew Yu, operator of Sunflower health services at the Hamilton Madison Many Chinese American gamblers and bus promotions. The casino estimates Express, the ticket agency that coordinated House, which offers Chinese-language are elderly, looking for company and that a fifth of its business comes from ethnic sales. treatment for compulsive gambling. “There’s entertainment. Others are immigrants with Asian clients. The World Wide Travel bus left Manhattan no other population that is exclusively few friends or family in the United States. The typical gambling package includes for Mohegan on March 11 and started the targeted by the gambling industry like the And some are men at risk of losing their a round-trip bus ticket, plus cash bonuses return trip just before 4 a.m. local time Chinese.’’ homes, jobs and families to accommodate subsidized by casinos, some of which also March 12. The journey ended when the bus Yee noted that Chinese children grow up their pastime, Yee said. offer meal coupons. flipped on its side just a few miles short of seeing some form of gambling “as part of As a result, Yee said, when gambling On any given weekday in New York, home and slid into a sign pole, shearing it in everyday ritual.’’ becomes a problem, people don’t seek about 4,000 seats are sold on dozens of such two and leaving a mess of bodies and twisted “We incorporate it in all major celebrations, treatment “until they are totally lost — buses, and 6,000 on weekends, Yee said. metal on Interstate 95. and it’s for money — playing cards, dice, pai until they lose their homes, their jobs, their More than 90 percent of the passengers come “People are scared,’’ said Yu, holding gow,’’ he said. families.’’ Others, he said, commit suicide. from Chinese communities, drivers told The his head in his hands as he sat in his tiny, Mohegan Sun, the casino in Uncasville, Three years ago, Mohegan donated Associated Press. windowless office up two flights of stairs Connecticut, from where the doomed bus $25,000 to Yee’s program, he said. n was returning last month, caters especially to Each passenger on the ill-fated bus paid from Canal Street, Chinatown’s main drag. 8 APR . 1-14, 2011 VOICES PACIFIC CITIZEN the shigeki shake down The Sendai I Will Never Forget VERY by peter shigeki frandsen truly yoursby harry k. honda

The Sendai Connection IN VIEW OF the disastrous earthquake, as Buhei Matsudaira. They boarded the devastating tsunami and the nuclear crisis in Pacific Mail side-wheeler, arrived in San Sendai plus Fukushima, Iwate and Miyagi Francisco on May 27, 1869, and went to last month, these areas of Japan are no Sacramento by riverboat to Gold Hill, El stranger to these pages. First of all, our late Dorado County, where they founded the photo courtesy of peter frandsen Tokyo correspondent Tamotsu Murayama Wakamatsu Tea and Silk Farm on June Peter Frandsen (left) in Iwate prefecture in 2003. has cited the first Japanese person to set 9. They brought Japanese mulberry tree foot in California was Hasekura Tsunenaga seedlings, rice, bamboo for food and craft, (from Sendai) in November 1613. tea nuts or seeds and silkworms. The year was 2003. The season was transitioning Lord Date Masamune of Mutsu The best known member of the colony from spring to summer and the location was a tiny private beach Province, a military commissioner of was Okei Ito, nursemaid to Schnell’s two the northern provinces for the Tokugawa daughters, Frances, two, and first U.S. born tucked away by a 45-minute hike through horrific events that we, as an international Ieyasu government based in Sendai, chose Nisei, Mary, two months old. the woods. The town was Miyako in the community and as individuals, have Hasekura as ambassador to promote trade Because of the heat, drought (1871) and Iwate prefecture of northern Japan. endured. We are forced to remember with Spain and visit Rome because of the lack of water to irrigate the farm, the My friends and I had spent the afternoon and relive the emotions of tragedies like Masamune’s “avowed object of acquiring colony went bankrupt. Schnell returned relaxing on that beach, basking in the beauty the earthquakes in Indonesia and Haiti, the esoteric details of the Catholic faith.” to Japan, promising to return with money, of this secluded town on the eastern shore Sept. 11th and Katrina. It is also easy to The embassy, with around 180 people, but didn’t. Thus, the farm was sold to their of Tohoku. We had purchased and grilled an quickly compare and contrast the extent of left Japan in October 1613, landed a month neighbor, Francis Veerkamp. obscene amount of yakitori skewers, passed destruction, support and reaction to these later at picturesque Cape Mendocino, Many returned to Japan but five were the time playing the ancient Japanese chess, various tragedies. Calif., for water and provisions. Continuing known to stay: Okei, Sakurai, Masumizu shogi, and telling stories. In this, I find great pride in being Japanese along the California coast to Acapulco, the and two believed to be from the colony I was a month or so away from completing American. embassy rested inland at Cuernavaca, the named in the 1870 Census as houseboys a two-year mission for my church, which Watching the news stories, reading Franciscan stronghold associated with the for Judge E.J.C. Kewen at El Molino Viejo, was based in Sendai, and I wanted to freeze e-mails from friends and relatives in Philippines and Spanish trade. now known as San Marino, Calif. time. I didn’t want Miyako or Hirosaki or Japan and listening to interviews on the The Hasekura Embassy, on a second ship Nursemaid Okei Ito, 19, who was Sendai or any of the other quintessential radio, I am stunned by the strength of the from Vera Cruz, stopped at Havana Harbor not found in the 1870 Census, died of inaka (rural) towns to ever change. They Japanese character. The lack of looting, the (where a statue of Hasekura stands today), pneumonia in 1871 and was buried on the were quaint and perfect, like a step back in commitment to community, the goodness on its way to St. Augustine, Florida. grounds of the Veerkamp property. Sakurai time. I guess I didn’t want my life to change of strangers looking and caring for one On a third ship to Spain, where they served the Veerkamp family until his death either. For that moment, everything was another is laudable in the highest degree. stayed for eight months, Hasekura was in 1901 and rests at Vineyard Cemetery, still and perfect. On the brink of despair, this Japanese baptized with 20 others before the court of Colma. The destruction of these cities has been ethos is incredible. Even as the international King Philip III in Madrid in February 1615. Masumizu married Carrie Wilson, the emotionally wrenching. Watching YouTube community rushes to bring aid to Japan, the On a fourth ship, the Hasekura daughter of a freed slave husband from videos of Miyako washing away and Japanese character is aiding the rest of the Embassy sailed from Barcelona across the Missouri and a Blackfoot Indian woman of looking at pictures of the aftermath of the world by teaching the rest of us how to deal Mediterranean to Civitaveccia, a port city Placerville. “Kuni” led a nomadic life as a earthquake and tsunami in those cities have with tragedy. for Rome since ancient time and one of the farmer, cook and fisherman. He died alone been devastating. I think of the people I We must not let them down. While many towns liberated by the 100th Infantry during in 1915 and was buried in Colusa. He had knew, who were likely going about their of us in the Japanese American community World War II. In Rome by November 1615, nine children, six died in infancy. Grant, regular lives, and it pains my heart. would love to jump on the next plane to the embassy was received with great pomp Harry and Clara survived. Listening to early reports about the Japan to help in any way possible, sadly, it and ceremony. Hasekura presented letters In 1941, the FBI summoned Mrs. Carrie Sendai airport being underwater, I thought is not realistic. But, there are other ways to from Lord Date and exchanged gifts with Wilson Masumizu, then in her 90s, to of all the times we would drive to the help, and we must use any avenue possible Pope Paul V. The letter and Hasekura’s inquire about her citizenship status since airport to pick up fresh, new missionaries. to salve the wounds of this catastrophe. portrait are preserved at the Vatican library. her husband, dead now for 27 years, was Watching the news footage of rice farms Many people have given money to THOUGH NOT OBVIOUS, the Japanese. being washed away with the force of the the Red Cross and donated through their Sendai connection is associated with Aizu Reporting at Walerga Assembly Center, tsunami waves, I remembered the many church groups or non-governmental Wakamatsu (Fukushima Prefecture), the she and “Kuni’s” children (half-Japanese, hours I spent on buses and trains traveling organization of choice. This too will help. strongest military post in the 1800s in and one-quarter African American) were across Tohoku marveling at the serenity and We must not let up in our efforts to help our northern Japan under Lord Matsudaira not evacuated. And it was Col. Bendetsen beauty of those rice farms. Katamori of Sendai. During the spasmodic who told Maryknoll Father Lavery if a I used to love the springtime when you Japanese brothers and sisters regardless of Japanese Civil War (1864-68), his army, child had one-sixteenth Japanese blood, could get off your bike and take a picture how many generations separate us from the loyal to the Tokugawa government in Edo, they “went.” in front of the rice fields filled with water motherland. Please make a phone call or get finally lost in January 1868 to the Satsuma, At the centennial celebration of the and capture both the mountains and their online to find ways to help. Choshu and Tosa forces, whose battle Wakamatsu Colony in 1969, a state reflections in your picture. Even as the media turn their cameras cry was, “Rid the foreigners, restore the historical plaque was dedicated at Gold Now pictures tell a different story. towards the next sensational story, we must emperor.” Hill with then Calif. Gov. Ronald Reagan Sendai will always have a special place in not forget to care for those in Japan. The With Lord Matsudaira’s fortune present. At the banquet in Sacramento, my mind and in my heart. With this tragedy, way in which we, as individuals, react to diminished, about 40 joined Eduard the presence of Kuni’s descendants was, I hope that it will find its way in the hearts tragedies like this will define our own n (John Henry) Schnell, 29, to start anew indeed, special. n and minds of the international community characters. in America. A munitions merchant who as well. taught gunnery to the Aizu forces, married Harry K. Honda is the editor emeritus of Stunning, unbelievable events like Peter Shigeki Frandsen is a Mount Olympus a Japanese woman and was naturalized the Pacific Citizen. this immediately bring to mind similar JACL member. PACIFIC CITIZEN ENTERTAINMENT APR. 1-14, 2011 9 ‘The Biggest Loser’ Father and Daughter Race to the Finish Kaylee and Moses Kinikini say it about it. It’s really about being with my has been a blessing to be together family, being with them as long as I possibly throughout their journey on ‘The can. ‘The Biggest Loser’ has given me my Biggest Loser.’ life back. I will be forever indebted for that.” In preparation for the finale Kaylee Kinikini, who was attending Brigham Young By Nalea J. Ko University in Idaho, says she has been Reporter working out about seven to eight hours a day. While on the “Biggest Loser” ranch Kaylee Kinikini says she had never been contestants are challenged by the four kissed before appearing on “The Biggest trainers to push their bodies to the limit. Loser” reality show. Now in the twelfth Contestants often train so hard that they week of the weight loss show the 20-year- vomit in the gym. old has shed 64 pounds and her former “The gym [laughs] it’s pretty good,” bashful exterior. Kaylee Kinikini said. “But I got to say Her transformation physically and sometimes it does smell a lot. You can mentally has kick-started her dating life. definitely smell the sweat and all the body “Right now I don’t have a boyfriend. But odor [laughs]. Sometimes it can be pretty I am dating a lot,” she said in a phone call messy.” to the Pacific Citizen while battling a cold. More challenging than the workouts is “There could be a boyfriend in the mix pretty the competitive nature of the show, say the soon [laughs].” Kinikinis. The 20-year-old’s new dating life is Less than half of the contestants remain not flustering her father, Moses Kinikini, in the competition as of week 13. The show who also appears on the NBC show. With started out with 22 contestants. Those who the show’s new trainer Cara Castronuova have been eliminated are still vying for the teaching contestants like Kaylee Kinikini $100,000 at-home prize. However, some of boxing techniques, Moses Kinikini says his those who’ve been eliminated needed to be daughter can likely fend for herself. on the show, some say. “If you’re going to date my daughter, you Many fans posted comments online don’t have to worry about me, her dad,” Moses Kinikini explained laughingly. “You chastising the Red team for voting off Arthur better worry about Kaylee because I think Wornum, who started the show at 507 she’d beat the crap of pretty much any guy. pounds. Trainer Bob Harper pleaded with She is fierce. Daddy will always worry. But contestants to consider Wornum’s health I know that my daughter can hold her own. and not the competition. These instances of She’s Tongan.” strategic game play were frustrating at times Being Tongan, Moses Kinikini says for contestants like Moses Kinikini. food was always an integral part of their “You know you’re cramped in there with lives. His family, he said, had a saying that everybody doing these things and it is a Tongans don’t eat until they are full, they game,” he said. “There was about a two- eat until they’re tired. Bad eating habits and week timeframe that I was allowing it to a sedentary lifestyle took a toll on Moses affect me more often. I just needed to let Kinikini. that go and really again focus on why I was At the show’s start he weighed 440 there, and what I needed to do rather than pounds, and his daughter at 233 pounds. what everyone else is doing.” Moses Kinikini says he was 475 pounds at The Kinikinis say they are blessed to have his heaviest. He suffered from sleep apnea experienced together “The Biggest Loser.” and high blood pressure, among other There was a time during the audition process ailments. that Kaylee Kinikini says her unemotional “I was in a lot of pain. No matter what I demeanor nearly threatened their chances of did it just did not feel good,” Moses Kinikini being casted on “The Biggest Loser.” said. “Then ten weeks of just doing that “I knew my dad wanted this so bad. I [exercising and eating right] I went from a being so guarded was kind of holding back,” 90 percent chance of getting diabetes to a Kaylee Kinikini said about being told by a one percent chance of diabetes.” producer to drop her guard. “I knew I needed The 47-year-old dropped 147 pounds on to open up and just dig deep.” photo: nbc Like everyone else on “The Biggest the show. He lost the weight even despite a The father and daughter duo are shedding weight to win ‘The Biggest Loser’ title and the Loser” Kaylee Kinikini eventually showed leg injury that sidelined him for about two $250,000 prize. weeks. But the Idaho-resident, who works as her emotions on camera. For others it was a garage door installer, did not give up and not as difficult to cry on cue. instead took to shadow boxing to stay in the “I think that within the first week they cry at home hearing the contestants stories. being Tongan. Let’s celebrate being Tongan game. realized how to make me cry,” Moses He often put his family before his health. and our culture. But let’s be smarter at what The father and daughter duo are shedding Kinikini said with a laugh. “All they had But Moses Kinikini says being on “The we do.” weight to win “The Biggest Loser” title and to do is just ask me … ‘So, Moses. So you Biggest Loser” has taught him to also take Win or lose, the Kinikinis say they are the $250,000 prize. think you’re wife would be proud of you?’ care of himself. He now hopes his story will happy to have made the journey together. But Moses Kinikini says the lessons he I’m like, ‘Oh, my goodness! Really, what inspire others to also make a lifestyle change. “I can’t imagine doing it with anyone else has learned about nutrition and exercise does that have anything to do with what we “Reality is I‘m not going to give up a besides my dad,” Kaylee Kinikini explained. mean more to him than any cash prize. just talked about!’ They knew that if I talked piece of chocolate cake or a doughnut or a “That’s something I’ll have and no one else “I realized winning $250,000 is great but about my wife, my girls or my family the hamburger. I will eat it a lot less often and can have, not even my mom can have that it doesn’t make you rich,” Moses Kinikini emotions would come out.” definitely not as much,” Moses Kinikini time that I had. It was a really special time. explained. “Maybe if it was a billion dollars Watching “The Biggest Loser” as a fan says. “That is actually what I hope to be It’s something that I’m going to cherish n [laughs] I might be a little more excited with his wife, Moses Kinikini says he used to able to teach my family, that yes, let’s enjoy forever.” 10 APR . 1-14, 2011 NATIONAL/COMMUNITY PACIFIC CITIZEN Hawaii Braces for Downturn in Travelers From Japan The state has close ties to Japan where market will bounce back soon when power is fully a quarter of their residents consider restored in Japan and life returns to some degree themselves full or part Japanese American. of normalcy. Kazuko Murota, a 58-year-old woman from By Jaymes Song Hokkaido, Japan, considered cancelling but went Associated Press ahead with her Hawaiian trip only because she was traveling with a group of co-workers. Murota, who was shopping in Waikiki on March 15, said HONOLULU—A tsunami spawned by the deadly she didn’t share with many people that she was earthquake in Japan caused tens of millions of dollars in leaving on vacation because she felt some guilt damage to homes, businesses and boats in Hawaii after about leaving Japan and being so far from home the waves roared ashore last month. during a tragedy. Now the islands are bracing for another hit — a loss in “We can’t help, because we’re far,’’ she said in travelers from Japan. Japanese. “It’s a feeling that we’re here having Gov. Neil Abercrombie predicted the economic fun on vacation and there are people who have consequences will be severe for this tourism-dependent suffered.’’ state that is already dealing with a projected shortfall of Hawaii has experienced sharp declines in the nearly $1 billion over the next two years. number of Japanese travelers after past tragedies, “It’s going to be terrible. It’s going to be rough,’’ he Hawaii is likely to see a decrease in the number of Japanese couples who from the deadly 1995 Kobe earthquake to the Sept. said. “It’s something that we have to come to grips with.’’ have destination weddings after the Japan earthquake and tsunami. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Hawaii is the top U.S. destination for the Japanese, Unlike other cultures that try to move on and hosting more than 1.2 million of the 16.6 million total return to normal as soon as possible following a outbound tourists last year. Visitors from Japan poured accepted at most banks in a new statewide campaign called tragedy, travel industry officials say the Japanese tend not to about $1.9 billion into Hawaii in 2010, or about 17 percent “Aloha for Japan.’’ Telephone service providers are offering travel or at least postpone in sympathy. of the $11.4 billion overall visitor revenue. free phone calls to Japan, and the Hawaii-based U.S. Pacific Newlyweds Tasuku and Mana Hashimoto of Tokyo were The Japanese are treasured in the Aloha State for their Fleet is also helping in relief and rescue operations. determined to make it to Hawaii for their honeymoon after affection of shopping and dining. They also embrace “This market is very important to us,’’ said Mike being married a day after the earthquake. Hawaiian culture and outspend American visitors nearly McCartney, president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism “We just barely were able to (have the wedding),’’ Mana 2-to-1 on a per-person, per-day average. Each day, there are Authority. “(But) for us, first of all, we’re most concerned Hashimoto said. “We had it in Yokohama. There were some 13 direct flights from Japan to Hawaii, bringing in anywhere about their well-being. More than dollars and cents, that’s friends who weren’t able to make it. But most did.’’ from 3,000 to 5,000 tourists. No. 1.’’ The couple considered cancelling their trip but decided to The tragedy is being followed closely here and has Hawaii has already experienced the cancellation of several go because there wasn’t much damage in their area and the prompted residents, businesses and government leaders groups from Japan, resulting in the loss of thousands of planes were flying. But they acknowledged it’s been difficult to respond with widespread fundraising efforts in this visitor arrivals. to fully enjoy their vacation, knowing the devastation back state, which has close ties with Japan. The first Japanese H.I.S. Hawaii, a travel agency that handles about a fifth of home. immigrants arrived here more than a century ago to work on all Japanese travel to Hawaii, saw new bookings plummet McCartney said an analysis and plan to address the the sugar canes fields with their children and grandchildren by half and cancellations tripling in the first three days possible downturn will be completed in the next seven to rising to prominence and power. after the March 11 earthquake, said Naomi Hashizume, the 10 days. Today, about a quarter of the state’s population, or 296,674 company’s assistant general manager. “We’re looking at the different scenarios, various markets residents, identified themselves as being of part or full However, the cancellation rate dropped to less than 10 and various alternatives, but our focus at this moment is Japanese descent, according to the 2000 Census. percent starting March 15 and Hashizume is hopeful that the offering them support,’’ he said. n The fundraising efforts include concerts to donations JAVA Offers Scholarships The Japanese American Veterans Association is calling for applicants for its 2011 scholarship program. Eight $l,500 scholarships are being offered, two more than last year, according to Dr. Ray Murakami, the new scholarship program chair. The deadline is April 30. Winners will be announced at the June 18 JAVA luncheon. To be eligible, the applicant must be a graduating high school student this year, and must be related lineally to a person who served during World War II in the U.S. Army’s 442nd Regimental Combat Team, the l00th Battalion, the Military Intelligence Service, or associated units. The applicant may also be a Japanese American who photo: pete souza/white house has served or is serving in Armed Services. Those related to a regular member of JAVA may also apply. President Obama stopped by the White House Initiative on AAPIs’ gathering to thank the group for their work. Applicants must also submit an essay on the subject: “What winning a JAVA scholarship award will mean to me” and provide proof of enrollment in a post-secondary Report Stresses Asian Americans Need Hepatitis B Education educational institution. The program honors the memory of Orville Shirey, Over half of people afflicted with the virus are of APAs. Douglas Ishio, Sunao Phil Ishio and Kiyoko Tsuboi- Asian American. The report addresses problems uniquely facing APAs such Taubkin, for whom scholarship funds have been separately as linguistic isolation, bullying and other civil rights issues. established. Early identification of chronic Hepatitis B Virus infection “We’ve made a lot of progress,” said Sec. of Commerce Again this year, there will be a special scholarship is crucial for Asian Pacific Americans who account for over Gary Locke, the White House Initiative’s co-chair. “A lot of honoring Teru Kamikawa Matsui. Also, a separate half of 1.5 million people in the U.S. afflicted with the virus, innovative thought went into this report to the president.” scholarship has been funded for Mary Kozono. according to a new report by the White House Initiative on The report was submitted to the White House during a Newly established funds also memorialize Joseph Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. gathering of two groups created under the executive order Ichiuji and Grant Hirabayashi. n Many APAs with Hepatitis B don’t know they have the establishing the White House Initiative on Asian Americans virus, according to the report, which was presented to the and Pacific Islanders, the President’s Advisory Commission For more information and application: White House March 14 with recommendations on how 23 and the federal Interagency Working Group, which includes n www.javadc.org federal agencies and offices can improve the everyday lives representatives from almost every federal agency. PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL/COMMUNITY APR. 1-14, 2011 11 Little Tokyo’s Challenger Monument Ships Off for Repair The monument honors designs and made the calculations Ellison S. Onizuka, the to make the 2,000-pound first Japanese American in monument structurally sound. space. Now, it’s back in the studio where it was created and Hirai is glad to By Pacific Citizen Staff see it again. “It’s my baby,” he said with a A space shuttle monument in laugh. Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo is on its The monument honors the latest mission. legacy of the Challenger’s crew. After 21 years of being exposed On Jan. 28, 1986, the space shuttle to the elements in Little Tokyo’s exploded 73 seconds after liftoff, Weller Court, the Space Shuttle killing all seven astronauts aboard, Challenger Monument is on including Ellison S. Onizuka, the assignment in Hawthorne, Calif. first Japanese American in space. to be refurbished by its creator, The Astronaut Ellison S. Isao Hirai, of the Scale Model Onizuka Memorial Board was Company. formed to honor the astronaut’s On March 22, the 12.5-feet- memory in Little Tokyo. tall model of the ill-fated Space “I met Ellison the year before the Shuttle Challenger was hoisted off accident. I was really impressed of its base and transported to the with the type of person he was,” said Herb Omura, of the memorial Scale Model Company site to get a The Space Shuttle Challenger Monument hovers above Weller Court just moments before heading for repairs. much-needed facelift. board. “I didn’t want people to “I’m happy the Orbiter is in forget.” astronaut’s honor. Lecture Series, an annual lecture afraid to go into space,” said good shape,” said Hirai. The memorial board is planning The monument will be re- program and hands-on workshops Linda. “He said he wasn’t because Cracks in the base of the a fundraiser to help offset the dedicated June 24, on what would at El Camino Community College the reward was always worth monument will be repaired, light cost of the $70,000 refurbishment have been Astronaut Ellison S. in Torrance, Calif. the risk. He even mentioned that fixtures will be replaced and the project. Onizuka’s 65th birthday. On the 25th anniversary of the sitting on the space shuttle was monument will receive a fresh Onizuka was grand marshal of In his memory, the board also Challenger tragedy, Onizuka’s like sitting on a ticking time bomb coat of paint. the 1985 Nisei Week Parade. In created the Space Science Day sister-in-law Linda described him until the rockets separated, but he Hirai spent about eight months addition to the memorial, the street Conference and the Astronaut as “humble.” always felt as though it was worth creating the monument, originally in Weller Court, formerly named Ellison S. Onizuka Memorial “I once asked him if he was it.” n installed in 1990. He sketched the Weller Street, was renamed in the

Mile-Hi JACL Hosts Twin Cities JACL Participates Teacher-Training Workshop in Social Studies Conference The Mile-Hi JACL Education A Day of Remembrance Committee sponsored a recent commemoration was held at the teacher-training workshop at the university the next day. Dr. Gina University of Denver focusing Mumma-Wenger spoke about on the World War II Japanese the history of art education in American experience. the WWII JA concentration A panel of speakers discussed camps. Mumma-Wenger said the impact of the WWII many of the children’s artwork incarceration on JAs. reflected the trauma they Incoming Mile-Hi Chapter suffered as a result of living in President Harry Budisidharta camps surrounded by armed also provided updates on guards and barbed wire fences. newly introduced legislation in Instead of teaching, camp Colorado since the passage of teachers were encouraged to test Arizona’s anti-immigration bill the children’s loyalty toward and the “ban” on ethnic studies the United States, according to in the state’s schools. Mumma-Wenger. Outgoing Mile-Hi Chapter There was an inherent (L-r): Carolyn Nayematsu, Janet Maeda Carlson, Judy Murakami and Sally Sudo at the Twin Cities JACL booth President Suzy Shimasaki irony in teaching incarcerated during the Minnesota Council for the Social Studies spring conference in Rochester, Minn. and the education committee JA students about American were instrumental in making democracy, said Dr. Jan Fielder The Twin Cities JACL copies of JACL publications Japanese American Internment and the workshop possible. Ziegler, a speaker at the event. Education Committee participated including, “Journey from Gold 9/11: Community Resources for Committee members include During WWII, many in the Minnesota Council for the Mountain: The Asian American Educators.” Kathy Namura, of the Japanese young JAs started to exhibit Social Studies spring conference Experience.” Carlson compared the hate American Resource Center of disciplinary problems caused held at the Mayo Civic Center in Janet Maeda Carlson, a retired crimes and responses in the Colorado; Bonnie Clark, of the by the loss of traditional social Rochester, Minn. on March 4. college professor, and Carolyn aftermath of the Sept. 11th terrorist University of Denver; Linda order, added Ziegler, winner Over 150 social studies educators Nayematsu, former executive attacks to the events after Japan Takahashi-Rodriguez, of the of the Adele Mellen prize for attended the conference themed, director of the Multicultural attacked Pearl Harbor. Asian Education Advisory her book “The Schooling of “Not Your Typical ‘Standards.’” Center for Academic Excellence Nayematsu discussed ideas on Council; Richard Hamai, of Japanese American Children Judy Murakami and Sally Sudo at the University of Minnesota, how to integrate the JA WWII the Mile-Hi JACL; and Leslie at Relocation Centers During manned the informational booth, led a breakout session titled, experience into the Minnesota Sakato. World War II.” n and distributed complimentary “Lessons Learned from the social studies academic standards. n 12 a Pr. 1-14, 2011 NATIONAL PACIFIC CITIZEN

Maui WWII Internment Camp Sites are Part of Research

The two sites are among 13 in Hawaii that will be part of a resource study.

By Associated Press

WAILUKU, Hawaii—The National Park Service has identified two sites in Maui as former Japanese internment camps. Park officials say the Kalana O Maui building in Wailuku and the Horizons Academy of Maui in Haiku lie on areas that held Japanese Americans during World War II. The two sites are among 13 statewide to be part of a resource study. Students Ask USC to Issue Honorary Degrees A Park Service spokeswoman says in Maui, there is little left The Los Angeles-based private university host such ceremonies after the passage of Assembly from the camps. But officials are holding a series of meetings has honored its WWII-impacted JA Bill 37, which called on California State University, across Maui County to seek the community’s input on how to students, but not with honorary degrees. University of California and community colleges to preserve their history. award these degrees. Congress recently instructed the National Park Service to carry Knowing that the last step hasn’t been taken to issue By Pacific Citizen Staff out the study. Internment camp sites have been found on all six honorary degrees at USC has motivated the coalition Hawaiian islands. n of students to act, said Kikuchi. Japanese American students at the University of The student group has spearheaded a petition to Southern California who were unjustly uprooted from “support the initiative to grant honorary degrees to our their homes and universities during World War II have fellow Trojans,” which will be delivered to university a new ally — a coalition of current USC students in president C. L. Max Nikias. Polaris Tours their 20s who are appealing to the private university to Setsuko Nishi, a former USC student whose Presents: issue honorary degrees to former Nisei students. education was interrupted by WWII, said honorary “We are putting to practice what our school degrees for Nisei students would be “symbolically 2011 Tour Schedule encourages us to do and apply our education through significant.” leadership,” said Sally Kikuchi, a first year master Jun. 7-Jun. 9 Las Vegas in Summertime: Shows: Celine Dion Many Nisei were in the transitional age between Jul. 17-Jul. 26 Summer Japan: Highlights for the Whole Family student studying public administration and coordinator high school and college when WWII broke out. To be of the Nisei Diploma Project at USC. Aug. 10-Aug. 17 Great Pacific Northwest: Vancouver, Victoria, denied a rite of passage like receiving a college degree Seattle, Whistler In 1942, over 120 USC students were forced and graduation is traumatizing, said Nishi, who went Aug. 30-Sep. 13 Gems of Malaysia to discontinue their education in compliance with on to earn her doctorate degree in psychology at the Oct. 11-Oct. 20 Legacy of the Incas – Peru, Machu Picchu, Executive Order 9066, which forced JAs into University of Chicago. Nazca Lines internment camps after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. “For those who didn’t finish their education or for Oct. 11-Oct. 20 Autumn Japan: Majestic Fall Colors The project’s goal is to honor these JA students who those who had a particularly bad experience [because Nov. 3-Nov. 13 Islands of Okinawa & Shikoku were unable to continue their education because of of the internment] this may be healing,” said Nishi Nov. 29-Dec. 13 Ancient Capitals of Thailand & Laos wartime hysteria. about the honorary degrees. Dec. 18-Dec. 20 Holiday in Las Vegas: Shows: Cirque du Soleil “Mystere” “What hits home is imagining your own degree Last April, the JACL national board unanimously 2012 being taken away from you and what emotional passed a resolution calling on USC to “act with a impact that has on you,” said Kikuchi. Apr. 3-Apr. 12 Spring Japan - “The Beauty of the Cherry Blossoms” particular priority on issuing honorary degrees to Apr. 12-Apr. 24 South Korea: All Major Highlights & Drama Sites In 2008, the USC Asian Pacific Alumni Association former Nisei students.” honored their former Nisei students during an April “I think it’s important because USC is a distinguished We will be happy to send you a brochure! 25 scholarships and awards gala. The university also school, and people view USC with such high regard honored the students during a football halftime show. 24 Union Square, Suite. 506 Union City, CA 94587 on a state, national, and international level that this Toll Free: (800) 858-2882 But many California universities and community www.tourpolaris.com project can only help USC gain even greater respect Email: [email protected] colleges have either already awarded Nisei students by demonstrating such commitment to its students,” with honorary degrees or have announced plans to said Kikuchi. n

Universities Seeking Nisei For Honorary Degrees Two California universities are seeking former Approximately 700 students enrolled at UC Japanese American students to recognize with Hastings and four other university schools were honorary degrees. among the 120,000 JAs sent to Santa Ana College’s spring internment camps during WWII. commencement is slated for May 20. Honorary Degrees Thus far, 10 students who meet the Twenty-two JA students who had their criteria established by the University college studies interrupted because of Help identify former of California have been identified. Nisei students who World War II have been identified. were unable to graduate UC Hastings students who were “It’s never too late to right a wrong,” because of the internment. unable to receive their degrees will said Erlinda J. Martinez, Santa Ana be awarded an honorary degree of College president. “This is our college’s Santa Ana College the University of California Inter opportunity to honor those former Send information to Silvas Academi Restituere Iustitiam. students who didn’t have the chance Mark Liang: AB 37, which became law last to finish what they started at Santa [email protected] October requires California’s Ana College. We want to honor their or 714/564-6040. public college and university sacrifice and present them with their systems to retroactively grant an long overdue diplomas.” UC Davis honorary degree to JA students, Similarly the UC Hastings College of Send information to living or deceased, who were the Law will confer honorary degrees to Stephanie Kang at forcibly removed and subsequently its former Nisei students May 15. [email protected]. incarcerated during WWII. n PACIFIC CITIZEN COMM UNITY/COMMENTARY APR. 1-14, 2011 13

Mori umbrella of a national organization continued from page 2 Mako Nakagawa to Keynote Manzanar Pilgrimage to assist them in advocacy and Mako Nakagawa, a community from Los Angeles. Pilgrimage issues important to them. We can Craig Ishii, PSW regional activist working to eliminate the participants should bring their own do a better job of inviting others director, has been running some use of euphemisms to describe the lunch, drinks and snacks. Water to join the JACL. New chapters, very effective programs for World War II Japanese American will be provided at the site. Both which include other Asian young people, including Project: experience, will be the keynote the daytime program and the MAD American groups, may also be Community! and Bridging speaker at the April 30 Manzanar event are free and open to the formed. Communities. pilgrimage. public. n Phillip Ozaki, membership Bill Yoshino, regional director Each year, over 1,000 people coordinator at the JACL in the Midwest, is running from diverse backgrounds attend headquarters in San Francisco, and successful leadership conferences the Manzanar pilgrimage, which Pilgrimage David Lin, JACL and workshops for commemorates the unjust WWII April 30 vice president of college students. imprisonment of over 110,000 An air-conditioned bus will ‘The JACL membership, have Karen Yoshitomi JAs in 10 American concentration depart at 7 a.m. from the been working on Nakagawa is the leader of the St. Francis Xavier Chapel and Patty Wada, camps located in the most desolate, depends on lapsed members ‘Power of Words’ movement. Japanese Catholic Center PNW and NCWNP isolated regions of the United and are trying to (formerly the Maryknoll regional directors, its members, States. come up with new Japanese Catholic Center), are working on Manzanar, located on U.S. is vital to preserve the truth of this youth programs in and we thank ideas to increase 222 South Hewitt Street in Los Highway 395 in California’s episode in history so that we can Angeles. Bus reservations are their areas as well. membership. Please you for being Owens Valley, was the first of these be vigilant in our resolve to protect being accepted on a first-come, support them as they The JA popula- camps to be established. our democratic way of life,” said first-served basis. stalwart present programs tion has been in the During WWII, Nakagawa, 74, Nakagawa, president and CEO of to the districts and U.S. for generations was incarcerated at the Puyallup Mako & Associates. “The Bill of members over chapters. Manzanar At Night and has assimilated Assembly Center in Washington, Rights and the U.S. Constitution 5-8 p.m. The JACL very well. Many the years.’ then at the Minidoka concentration failed us in our time of need. Let 538 South Main Street (US depends on its of the younger camp in Idaho, and ultimately at the legacy of our experience be Highway 395), in Lone Pine, members, and members of our JA the Crystal City internment camp that it never happens again to any nine miles south of the we thank you for community do not see a need for in Texas. group of people.” Manzanar National Historic Site being stalwart members over the the JACL. Additionally, there are The “Power of Words” resolution In addition to the daytime years. The JACL could not have many JA non-profits, community is part of a movement within the JA program, the pilgrimage will For more information: continued without you. We are also organizations, and churches to community to identify and address continue that evening with the 323/662-5102; grateful to our newer members who which people belong. We need to the use of euphemistic language popular Manzanar At Dusk (MAD) 42ndpilgrimage@ have joined. Anything any of you show others the value of the JACL. to describe the camps and the JA program at the Lone Pine High manzanarcommittee. can do to encourage friends and One way to increase our experiences of WWII. School gymnasium. org or http://blog. family members to join the JACL membership numbers is to include “Use of accurate terminology in Bus transportation to the manzanarcommittee.org would be greatly appreciated and other communities, which could describing the Nikkei experience pilgrimage is still available benefit from being under the beneficial to the organization. n 45251 JACL LTC ad.qxd 1/28/11 4:56 PM Page 1

With so many places to shop for long-term care MIYAZAKI of the P.C. (currently 1929-1944), coverage, how do you decide what’s best for you? continued from page 2 and the power that this resource of the vibrancy and scope of the holds, for historians, families and Start shopping from the Asian American communities students. Christine McFadden’s Shopping for source you can trust. there, and how we have to look a recent story, “Cultural Disconnect bit harder to find that in other parts Among Japanese American Youth” Call toll-free (March 4-17 issue), was a reminder Long-Term Care of the country. 1-800-358-3795 today. From my vantage point, this that history can be easily lost, and that stories are not always handed Insurance? Or visit is exactly why the existence and www.jaclinsurance.com. vibrancy of the Pacific Citizen down between generations in a family. In the act of archiving past is so important. Since 1929, the As a JACL member, you don’t have to worry. P.C. has delivered the news of our issues online, important content Don’t know That’s because you can trust JACL and JACL’s community to doorsteps (and now exists for Sansei, Yonsei and Gosei Long-Term Care Call Center. It’s available to computer screens), however far to discover now, or in the future. you, your spouse, your parents and your parents-in-law. flung they may be. It has served as So with snow (hopefully) being whom to trust? an important voice and record of in the past, I’m turning to warmer When you call the JACL Long-Term Care events. thoughts, and in particular to Call Center at 1-800-358-3795, you’ll get the P.C.’s More than ever, as the profile the Spring Campaign. I first-rate service you deserve from salaried, of our population changes, and remember something my father licensed agents. we share fewer communal meals said about the redress money he Your Long-Term Care Agent will ... received for his time served at Tule and chapter gatherings, the P.C. 3 Provide personalized one-on-one service continues to be there, as a fabric Lake and Heart Mountain. To him, that keeps both history and current the money itself wasn’t important. 3 Offer needs-based analysis based on your events within grasp. It connects us. But he said that this is how our personal situation and budget And importantly, the paper exists society places value to something 3 Help guide you through the long-term care in two forms — the print edition, — in this case, acknowledging buying process great wrongdoing. which many members prefer for 3 Custom-tailor a plan for you both its tradition and accessibility, Please remember that by Pacific Citizen and online, with an expanded and donating to the , What’s more, you’ll never be pressured to buy and you’re never under any obligation. vibrant website. This makes the you’re showing that you place value smart content provided by the in the hard work of its staff, and in Administered by: the important role it continues to P.C. staff obtainable and pertinent n to the widest possible audience, serve in our community. both in the JA and broader Asian CA Ins. Lic. #0633005 American communities. Kevin J. Miyazaki is the Midwest AR Ins. Lic. #245544 I’m excited about the online district representative on the d/b/a in CA Seabury & Smith Insurance Program Management archive of historical back issues Pacific Citizen editorial board. 50700/50216/50025 ©Seabury & Smith, Inc. 2011

50700 JACL (2011) Full Size: 6.0625" x 6.67" Bleed: N/A Live: N/A Folds to: N/A Perf: N/A Colors: B/W Stock: N/A Postage: N/A

MARSH Misc: N/A 14 APR . 1-14, 2011 CALENDAR PACIFIC CITIZEN effects on politics and economics hosted by Rick Quan, KGO-TV. Annual Cherry Blossom in the region. Ken Oye, an MIT Proceeds from the event will Festival associate professor of political benefit the work of Kimochi. LOS ANGELES, CA science and engineering Info: www.kimochi-inc.org or September 2011 systems, was in Tokyo during call Steve Nakajo at 415/931- Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo GOA NATIONAL• GUIDE TO NOTABLE COMMU•NITYDO EVENTS* the earthquake and will provide 2294 The 10th Annual Cherry Blossom SEE an eye-witness account of the Festival is around the corner! Join photo: oregon nikkei endowment event. He will also discuss his Sachiko Fashion Fundraiser for in the festivities and experience perspective as a political scientist Nihonmachi Little Friends a festival that brings together the and author of articles on Japan’s SAN FRANCISCO, CA Southern California community. nuclear policies. April 8 to 10 There will also be a booth where Info: 781/237-0268 or visit Kabuki Hotel’s Kyoto Suite attendees can donate to the www.wellesleyfriendsmeeting. 1625 Post St. American Red Cross to help org Sachiko, a 21-year-old fashion Japan. designer, will present a special Info: Visit www. The 5th Annual New York Asian three-day fashion series to cherryblossomfestivalsocal.org American Student Conference benefit Nihonmachi Little Friends’ NEW YORK, NY programs and building fund. The MIDWEST April 16, 9:30 a.m. GO! three shows will be held during NYU Kimmel Center San Francisco’s Cherry Blossom JACL Chicago Chapter Cocktail 60 Washington Square S. Festival. Party and Silent Auction This year’s Annual New York Info: 415/922-8898 or CHICAGO, IL City Asian American Student www.nlfchildcare.org April 14, 6:30 to Conference, themed “eMerging DO! Film Screening of ‘Prisoners and Patriots’ 9:30 p.m. Profiles,” will be a place to merge Tattoos in Japanese Culture The Noodle Zone PORTLAND, OR different perceptions of Asian SACRAMENTO, CA 5423 North Clark St. April 22, 6:30 p.m. and April 23, 1:30 p.m. Americans, to reveal the clashes May 7, 2 to 4 p.m. Cost: $35; $25/students (with University of Oregon, Portland Room 142/44 as well as the similarities of many Asian Community Center school ID) 70 NW Couch St views. 7375 Park City Dr. Please join the JACL Chicago Info: Visit www.nycaasc.com Cost: $5/donations chapter as they install the 2011 Why are tattoos so popular among board of directors. The silent Neil H. Simon, an award-winning filmmaker and journalist, IDC persons of all ages, especially with auction will be held at the JACL presents his new film “Prisoners and Patriots.” The film athletes, musicians, and actors? office at 5415 North Clark St. documents the Department of Justice internment camp in Santa The 6th Annual Japan Festival John Marshall, an internationally Info: Call 773/728-7171 or Fe as well as the internment experience in Lordsburg and Fort SALT LAKE CITY, UT known textile artist of natural [email protected] Stanton. It will run in conjunction with the exhibit “Taken: FBI at April 30, 11 a.m. fibers and fashion designer, will Japantown Street lead a lively discussion on the role Japanese American World II the Oregon Nikkei Legacy Center.” 100 South (Between 200 West tattoos have played in Japanese Internment Exhibit and 300 West) culture since earliest times. DAVENPORT, IA Info: Nicole Nathan at 503/224-1458 or The festival will begin with Info: 916/427-2841 or April 4, 4 to 7 p.m. [email protected] opening ceremonies and feature [email protected] St. Ambrose University, live entertainment on two stages Rogalski Center during the day. The Nihon Matsuri 518 West Locust St. Festival committee has arranged CCDC The exhibit “Japanese American EAST Wellesley Friends Meeting 26 Benvenue St. for performances and workshops Internment in World War by two Japanese artists, including The 26th Annual Shinzen II” intends to help viewers JACL New England Chapter’s Please join us for this discussion on Japanʼs earthquake and shinobue artist Miwako Mori and Run and Walk understand the lengths a country ‘Crisis in Japan’ Lecture taiko artist Takahito Nishino. The FRESNO, CA may go to sacrifice individual WELLESLEY, MA tsunami, recent events in Fukushima, and the long-term popular anime contest will be held April 23, 6 a.m. freedom and liberty of its April 2, 10 to 11:30 a.m. on stage as well. Woodward Park citizens when national security is Info: www.nihonmatsuri.com The JACL Fresno Chapter is threatened. pleased to announce this year’s Info: To pre-register call NCWNP run and walk! The event is open to 309/793-1300 runners and walkers of all levels a one-act OPERA of Japanese-American Internment The Chinese for Affirmative and benefits the Central California Free Film Screening of Action’s Celebration of Justice Nikkei Foundation, the Shinzen ‘Vincent Who?’ SAN FRANCISCO, CA Friendship Garden at Woodward MINNETONKA, MN June 9, 6 p.m. Park and the Fresno JACL April 3, 2 to 4 p.m. The Sisters of Empress of China Restaurant Scholarship Fund. Hennepin County Library 838 Grant Ave Info: www.proraceggroup.com 12601 Ridgedale Dr. The Celebration of SEE! or 559/434-1662 In 1982 at the height of anti- Justice is CAA’s Japanese sentiments, Vincent Manzanar largest fundraiser of Chin was murdered in Detroit MEET THE ARTISTS AT A SPECIAL VIP RECEPTION PSW the year where civil rights, LGBT by two white autoworkers who rights, and political leaders gather King’s Hawaiian Hukilau blamed him because they were to honor extraordinary individuals. Fundraiser out of work. This documentary It’s also a fun setting where old TORRANCE, CA features interviews with key friends can reconnect. April 20, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. players at the time. Info: www.caasf.org or call COMPOSER SOPRANO SOPRANO KEYNOTE COMMENTS BY ACTOR JAPANESE DANCER King’s Hawaiian Bakery & Info: Call 952/847-8800 or visit Paul Stuart Miwako Isano Lori Rohrs George Takei Monique Brian Fong at 415/274-6760 ext. Restaurant www.vincentwhofilm.com 313 2808 W. Sepulveda Blvd. PERFORMANCES BY Come support the Hukilau ADVERTISE HERE Sunday Clovis Heiwa Kimochi’s 40th Anniversary fundraiser at King’s Hawaiian Taiko Drummers Gala ‘Nightastic!’ Bakery and Restaurant. The Events in Go•See•Do are May 1, 2011 SAN FRANCISCO, CA fundraiser benefits Camp Musubi, listed based on space May 14, 6 p.m. a youth day camp. Participants availability. Don’t see your Early Bird Ticket Prices Expire April 10 at 1:30pm Hotel Nikko San Francisco must present a flyer to contribute event here? Place a 559.225.6737 222 Mason St. 20 percent of proceeds to the ‘Spotlight’ ad with WARNORS CENTER Cost: $175 fundraiser. photos of your event for FOR PERFORMING ARTS www.brownpapertickets.com The evening will honor co- Info: To receive a flyer, contact maximum exposure. founders and original organizers Marissa Kitazawa at 213/626- Free tours of the Pinedale and Fresno Assembly Center Memorials & of Kimochi, Inc., Steve Nakajo, 4471 or visit For more info: the Shinzen Japanese Garden will be offered on Saturday, April 30. executive director, and Sandy [email protected] Proceeds will benefit the Fresno Assembly Center Memorial, www.campmusubi.org sharing the local story of internment. Additional donations for Ouye Mori, retired development (800) 966-6157 Japan earthquake relief are appreciated. director. A live auction will be Southern California’s 10th PACIFIC CITIZEN OBIT UARIES APR. 1-14, 2011 15 TRIBUTE George Yoshito Masunaga September 2, 1914 - March 3, 2011 Furukawa, John Mutsuo, 88, Nagata, Grace Miyako, 88, Mission Inn located in Riverside, George Masunaga was born IN MEMORIAMCalif.; she later married art on September 2, 1914, in Fort student, Shigeru; her family was Lupton, Colorado, graduated interned at Heart Mountain during from Brighton High School WWII; she is survived by her and the University of Colorado children, Tek, Taka, Jeanie and School of Pharmacy in 1941. Seiko Buckingham; 9 gc; 9 ggc. He served as a chemist for the Denver and Rio Grande Tokunaga, Sumio, 84, Honolulu, Railroad before doing a tour of HI; Feb. 18; he was a retired duty with the U.S. Army during crane operator with Oahu Sugar; WWII. He served as a civilian Gardena, CA; March 5; he was survived by wife, Michiko; sons, pharmacist at the Lowry Air born in Kansas City, Mo.; he is Stockton, CA; March 22; her Nolan (Mavis), Leo (Diane); force Base in Denver. George survived by his son, Manabu John; family was interned during WWII sisters, Tomii Orita, Hisayo (Mikio) nephews, Kenny (Dianne), David at Rohwer, Ark.; she was an active Soma, Chiyono Hishinuma; 3 gc. and his brothers, Jess and John, operated several drug (Eugenia), Robert (Beverly), and member of JACL; predeceased by He was Mile Hi Chapter stores in the Denver metro Cedric (Christy); niece, Arleen brothers, George, Sam, Norman, Tsukahara, Berta, 95, Dallas, president from 1947 to 1958 area. (Dan) Pavan. Mas and Roch Funamura; also Texas; March 9; she was the and organized the biennial In 1958, George mar- predeceased by sisters, Minnie youngest daughter of Dr. Kinya JACL Convention in Denver in ried Mary Funakoshi of Fort Higashi, Grace Toshiko, 77, Masaoka and Dorothy Morita; and Ura Tsukahara; predeceased 1992. Lupton. Although they did not she is survived by her daughter, by her parents; sister, Mary; He was a Millineum and Sharon; sons, Keith and Kevin; have children of their own, brothers, Henry, William, Woodrow Thousand Club member, daughter-in-law, Lynn; sister, they are beloved by many who and Theodore; survived by many active in the University of Mary Iyemura; brother, James call them, Uncle and Auntie. nieces, nephews and friends. Colorado School of Pharmacy, Funamura; many nieces and George is survived by his wife, Simpson Methodist Church, nephews; 1 gc. Mary, a sister Mary Fujimoto Uchizono, Taro, 89, Japanese Association of and brother, John Masunaga. Colorado, Japan America Nakamoto, Toyoko “Toggie,” 89, He and Mary attended Mile Society, the Nisei Post (VFW) Los Angeles, CA; March 25; she Hi Chapter JACL meetings Colorado and the Colorado is survived by her children, Cathy regularly until his last illness. Pharmacist’s Society. Funeral (James) Rogers and Dale (Sol); He was a mentor to all; quick Service was held at 11:00 March 10; she is survived by sister, Shigeko Taira; many nieces with stories, laughter and a.m., March 8, 2011, Simpson husband, Tom; daughters, June, and nephews; 3 gc; 2 ggc. shared a wealth of the history Methodist Church, 6001 Wolff Susan and Cynthia; brothers, of JACL and of life. Richard and Roy Nakao; sister, Takaezu, Toshiko, 88, Honolulu, St., Arvada, CO 80003. Mae Okayama; 2 gc. HI; March 9; she was a Japanese American ceramic artist; her work Fountain Valley, CA; March 22; TRIBUTE Kanamori, Lynne Kuromi, 56, is on display at the Smithsonian he was a U.S. Army vet with the March 22; she is survived by her American Art Museum and the 442nd RCT; predeceased by wife husband, Glenn; brother, Kevin Los Angeles County Museum of Shirgeru “Shig” Motoki Rosie; brother Saburo and sister May 14, 1922 - February 5, 2011 (Susan); sister, Janet (Kent) Art, among other places; she is Toshiko; survived by wife, Estella; Fujimura; daughter, Cheryn. survived by two brothers and four brothers Jiro (Toy) and Shiro Shigeru “Shig” Motoki passed sisters. (Minnie) Uchizono; sister Ikuko away on February 5, 2011 at the Kawamura, Wallace T., 89, Iguchi; sons, Stanley (Sharon), Dr. age of 88 years. He was born Honolulu, HI; March 4; he was a Tanaka, Yoshi Okubo, 103, St. Rodger, and Craig (Karen); many on May 14, 1922 in Ichinoseki, U.S. Army vet; he served during George, Utah; Nov. 9, 2010; she nieces and nephews; 6 gc. 1 ggc. Japan. He lived with his family in WWII with the 442nd RCT; he co-founded an art gallery at the Seattle, Washington until World is survived by wife Mabel E.; War II when they were placed in daughter Terry Sasamura; brother, an internment camp in Minidoka, Michael S.; sister, Edith Torikawa; Idaho. 2 gc. Shig enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Japan Munesue, Tsuneo, 91, Honolulu, during the Korean War. He was HI; Feb. 27; he retired from USPS honorably discharged in 1954. after 37 years; predeceased by his Shig graduated from the Univer- wife, Grace; he is survived by son, sity of Utah in 1958. He worked Gary; daughter, Gail L. (Paul T.) for the Civil Service at Hill Field Kaneshiro; brothers, Ben (Bernice) Air Force Base and became a supervisor for production manage- and Harry; sisters, Betty Iwamoto, ment of the F-16 fighter plane. He retired from the Civil Service in Mary (Yoshio) Toyama; nieces and 1980. nephews; 3 gc. He was active in the Mount Olympus chapter of the JACL and served a term as president. Shig is survived by his wife, three Reverse Mortgage The PACIFICPACIFIC NORTHWEST’SNORTHWEST’S sons, four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Call for a free information package ASIAN GROCERY & GIFTGIFT MARKETMARKET Honor Your If you are 62 or older and own your house, Advertise in the Loved Ones a Reverse Mortgage may benefit you! ‘In Memoriam’ is a free • Turn Home Equity into Tax Free Cash listing that appears on a • You keep title to your home Pacific Citizen! limited, space-available basis. • No Monthly Mortgage Payments Tributes, which honor the memory • FHA Program Designed for Seniors Call of your loved ones with original “I pledge to provide excellent customer service with the highest standard of ethics” copy and photos, appear in a timely manner at the rate of $20/ 25+ Years Experience as a Financial Professional Brad Kiyomura A Tradition of Good Taste Since 1928 column inch. David C. Miyagawa Chee For more info: Brad Kiyomura Certified Public Accountant 1-800-967-3575 800/966-6157 CA Dept. of Real Estate – Real Estate Broker #01391106 seattle 206.624.6248 | bellevue 425.747.9012 [email protected] or renton 425.277.1635 | beaverton 503.643.4512 (800) 966-6157 NMLS ID 263222 www.uwajimaya.com 16 APR . 1-14, 2011 ADRTISINGVE PACIFIC CITIZEN

UBJP0106_japanrelief_PacificCitizen_BW_em0.indd 1 3/25/11 3:16 PM

client: Union Bank prepared by: Dentsu America Blueproofreader Shield of______California description: Japan Relief creative director: B. Gantt An Independent Member of the Blue Shield Association HP BW NB art director: art director ______number: UBJP-0106 copywriter: copywriter ______Live: 10.25" x 6.5" studio: S. Meineke publication: Pacifi c Citizen Weekly production manager: studio ______traffi c manager: K. Koda account exe. ______account sup. ______management sup. ______product specialist ______issue date: 4/1/11 OK TO RELEASE ______material close: 3/25/11 RECEIPT OF THIS ADVERTISING MATERIAL DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A SPACE ORDER.

Health Plans for California JACL Members Call the JACL Health Benefits Administrators at 1.800.400.6633 or visit www.jaclhealth.org