Free shuttle from the Festival in front of City Hall to Langley Senior Center and Mark Keppel High School. The City of Monterey Park C h e r r y B l o s s o m Fe s t i v a l

19th Anniversary

CHERRY BLOSSOM Welcome! FESTIVAL COMMITTEE Chairperson: The 2016 Cherry Blossom Festival Committee would like to welcome you to Karen Ogawa Performance: this year’s Festival. The Cherry Blossom Festival has a long history of being David Ikeda held in Monterey Park since the early 1970s. Discontinued shortly after, the Gary Kanemoto Cherry Blossom Festival was resurrected by a group of community volunteers Guy Higashi in 1997. Their efforts were realized through the successful reestablishment of Lila Leong-Iizumi the Cherry Blossom Festival in April 1998. Exhibits & Demonstrations: Colleen Ishibashi Sandy Hidalgo The Festival which is held every Spring in April coincides with the National Craft, Commercial & Community Annual Festival held in Washington, DC to celebrate the 1912 gift to our Booths (Marketplace): Nation’s capital of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Ozaki of Tokyo. Gwen Kishida Food Court: Organized completely by community volunteers, the Festival’s goal is to Karen Ogawa Kids’ Crafts: showcase the Japanese culture through a number of exhibits, demonstrations Carli Ohara and traditional performances all at no cost to the public. Donations & Sponsorships/ Publicity and Marketing: Our thanks to everyone who participates in and supports this community event. Lorran Yano Karen Ogawa Sincerely, David Ikeda The 2016 Cherry Blossom Festival Committee Cindy Kuranushi Poster Design: Kurt Ogawa Program: Gwen Kishida Special Thanks: Volunteers & Information: Margaret Endo The Cherry Blossom Festival Committee wishes to express its gratitude to Kurt Ogawa Executive Committee Members for designing the poster/program cover for the festival for so many years. His dedication, Agnes Arakawa effort and creativity have produced colorful, evocative and eye-catching designs that have garnered much positive attention for the festival. Thank you Kurt! Peggy Shindo Shihoko Tatsugawa Vickie Sill-Ohashi Support the Festival! Special thanks to the City of Please stop by the information booth to purchase a raffle ticket for $2.00 each. All proceeds Monterey Park staff, especially Recreation Superintendent will go to fund next year’s festival and you may win a great prize donated by our sponsors. Robert Aguirre and Recreation Prizes include a Grand Prize of $1,000 and restaurant, salon and car wash gift certificates. Senior Clerk Typist Cristina Drawing will be held on Sunday, April 17th. Winner need not be present. Castillo

FESTIVAL SPECIAL GUESTS

HARRY H. HORINOUCHI The Honorable Harry H. Horinouchi, 56, is the newly appointed consul general of Japan in Los Angeles. He arrived in Los Angeles on August 7. Consul General Horinouchi was born on November 12, 1957 and graduated in 1980 from Tokyo University Faculty of Law, the same year he entered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). He studied overseas at Nanjing University in China in the Faculty of Chinese Language and Literature, and at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Arts and Science. Prior to his posting in Los Angeles, Consul General Horinouchi served from 2011 to 2014 as the envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary at the Embassy of Japan in Beijing. His postings include minister at the Embassy of Japan in Beijing (2010-2011); deputy director-general of MOFA’s International Legal Affairs Bureau (2009-2010); and director of the China and Mongolia Division, Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, MOFA. An academic, Consul General Horinouchi has published several major papers and was a lecturer at the Graduate School of Law at Waseda University in Tokyo from 2000 to 2002.

RODNEY KAGEYAMA An accomplished actor, Rodney has appeared in films such as “The Next Karate Kid”, “Pretty Woman” and on television shows such as “Home Improvement”, “Quantum Leap”, “Married with Children” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” We are honored to have him join us for another year as our Festival’s emcee.

SHIN ITO Shin is a long-time supporter of the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival. We are happy to have him back again this year.

PHYLLIS CHANG Phyllis Chang is a Korean American singer/songwriter from Los Angeles. She is best known for her “smooth-jazzy” vocal sound. She began performing for the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom festival over ten years ago. Her earliest performances were “Pinky Paws” sing-along songs for children and the “Young at Heart.” With hand gestures, puppets and musical props, children and adults would sing-along and dance-along with her on stage. Over the festival years, Phyllis has also performed her contemporary pop/jazz music with her band on the main stage.

Phyllis received her MA from USC in Art History/Museum Studies and her BA in art from CSULA. With a background and passion for art and music, she ventured off to write and perform music and freelance in the art field. In 1995, Phyllis started Pinky Paws Productions as an indie label music production studio. Since then she has recorded and produced six CDs of children and contemporary pop/jazz songs. Later in 2006, Phyllis founded Be Studios Enhancing Wellness Through Creativity and offers workshops and events to enhance healing and wellness through art and music. Currently Phyllis is writing songs for her next CD release. www.phyllischangmusic.com

USA SUMO WITH SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE BY YAMA USA Sumo has produced several hundred live sumo events, worldwide, with numerous World Sumo Champions. We also host the US Sumo Open, the largest annual sumo competition on the planet (outside of Japan) since 2001. The 16th annual US Sumo Open will be on Saturday, May 21 at the Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California.

At the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival, USA Sumo is happy to produce a rare sumo demonstration with special guest Yama, 6'4" and the heaviest Japanese human being in recorded history at 600 pounds. Yama competed for years in the top division of Japanese Pro Sumo (fighting name “Yamamotoyama”), and had previously won multiple World Sumo Champion titles. Yama will be exhibiting sumo with Takeshi, 5'8", 220 pounds, multi-time University Sumo Champion. Both are alumni of Nihon University, the perennial #1 sumo program in Japan. These Japanese Champions will be joined on stage by some of their American sumo trainees. For more information on USA Sumo and Yama, visit www.usasumo.com. FESTIVAL SPECIAL PERFORMERS

JUNE KURAMOTO June Kuramoto (born in Japan but raised in Los Angeles) has been playing okoto almost her entire life with the remarkable Kazue Kudo Sensei receiving her ‘natori’ (classical degrees of koto) authorized by the Miyagi School of Koto in Tokyo, Japan. Her love for the koto grew into a dream of playing with contemporary western instrumentation with a hope of sharing this beautiful instrument with a wider audience. She, too, is one of the principals of the group Hiroshima, a songwriter and producer. Her heart is always with children, Mother Earth and dignity of all human beings. She has three solo CDs, “Spirit and Soul”, “The Way of Tea” (with Derek Nakamoto) and “Under the Stars”. She is forever grateful for the support from her wonderful fans, the Hiroshima family, her friends & family, and the multitude of communities.

KIMO CORNWELL Kimo (Hawaiian for James) Cornwell was born in Honolulu, Hawaii. Blessed with the love of music, he began his classical studies at the age of 8, and that continued for 6-1/2 years. He is renowned as one of the best keyboard players from the islands. His many credits include performing and/or recording with such artists as Al Jarreau, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Ronnie Laws, John Klemmer, Cheryl Lynn, Rick Springfield, Julio Iglesias, Howard Hewitt, Shari Belafonte, Hubert Laws, Peter White, Charo, Michael Paulo, Pauline Wilson (Seawind), Don Ho, and Kalapana. Kimo has also been involved with writing and performing music for several TV movies, cooking shows, and documentaries. He has been one of the principals and heart and soul of the Los Angeles-based group Hiroshima as keyboardist, composer, arranger and producer.

June and Kimo are both extremely honored to again be part of Monterey Park’s Cherry Blossom Festival. Joining June and Kimo is long-time Hiroshima bandmate Dean Cortez.

LOCAL MOJO LOCAL MOJO is a band of professional Los Angeles freelance musicians with the goal of performing great dance music of the past from artists such as Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind & Fire, Chi- cago, Tower of Power, Motown etc. LOCAL MOJO is one of the most versatile performing acts around with an emphasis on "Old School" Rhythm & Blues / Motown Dance Music - with a twist of Jazz! If you love to dance to old school R & B and SOUL, then LOCAL MOJO is defi- nitely the band for you!

KOKORO In Japanese, “kokoro” is used to signify “heart” or “soul”. In music, the drums keep the beat, or the “heart” of the music. The keyboards, bass and guitar represent the body of the music, and the vocals embody the “soul”. The band Kokoro is a music group consisting of almost all Asian-Americans, and covers music from Motown to country, rock and pop; from the hits of the 60’s to current Billboard chart toppers. Though Kokoro has only been together a short time, individually the members of Kokoro have had the good fortune to work with many celebrities in the industry, including Gladys Knight, Jessica Simpson, Hi- roshima, and Gene Simmons, to name a few. Additionally, throughout their own individual careers, they have played high-level venues such as the Palladium, the Sunset Strip, the Fla- mingo Hilton Las Vegas and the American Music Awards. The members of Kokoro came to- gether to form a band out of the pure love of music – and together, they have found some- thing beyond just performing together, but shaped their own musical family. Kokoro prides itself on performing not just the music and lyrics of the song, but getting down to the soul of the song. After all, as the saying by Frederick Delius goes: “Music is an outburst of the soul. PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Saturday, April 16, 2016

FIELD STAGE

11:00 a.m. Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko 11:30 a.m. Mark Keppel High School Aztec Singers Noon Opening Ceremony including Kimono Fashion Show 12:45 p.m. Kyodo 1:15 p.m. Garvey Ranch Dojo 1:45 p.m. Halau Hula ‘a’ ala Anuhea 2:15p.m. USA Sumo 3:15 p.m. TaikoProject 4:15 p.m. David Torres Kempo Karate 4:45 p.m. Local Mojo

INDOOR STAGE (located inside the Gym)

11:30 a.m. Kayama Puppet Troupe 12:00 p.m. Classical Japanese Dance with Nancy Hayata & Co. 1:00 p.m. Kotobuki No Kai 2:00 p.m. Demonstration by Andy Matsuda of the Sushi Chef Institute 3:00 p.m. Urasenke Tea Ceremony 3:30 p.m. Nagauta: Matsutoyo-Yamatogaku 4:00 p.m. Magic Wayne 5:00 p.m. Shinshi - Guitarist

Sogetsu Ikebana will be offering Mini-Flower Arranging Classes from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. $5.00 Materials Fee

AMPHITHEATER

3:00 p.m. Infotakus Cosplay Runway and Fashion Show

Performers and Set Times Subject to Change Without Notice PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Sunday, April 17, 2016

FIELD STAGE

11:00 a.m. Mark Keppel High School Pep Band 11:30 a.m. Yuujou Daiko 12:00 p.m. Mele Ohana Ukulele 12:30 p.m. Koshin Taiko 1:00 p.m. Azuma Kotobuki Kai 1:45 p.m. Yoki Daiko 2:15 p.m. June Kuramoto and Kimo Cornwall 3:00 p.m. Classical Japanese Dance with Nancy Hayata and guest appearance by the Little Tokyo Dance Club 3:30 p.m. U.S. - Chinese Wu Shu Martial Arts 4:00 p.m. Ohana Polynesian Dancers 4:45 p.m. Kokoro

INDOOR STAGE (located inside the Gym)

11:00 a.m. Sunny and Judy Seki - Children’s Folktales 12:00 p.m. Manju Demonstration by Brian Kito of Fugetsu-do 1:00 p.m. Kuntau Martial Arts Academy 2:00 p.m. Kyo No Kai Kabuki 3:00 p.m. Origami Demonstration by Michael Sanders 4:00 p.m. Illusions by Allen Oshiro 5:00 p.m. Magician Mario Seki

Sogetsu Ikebana will be offering Mini-Flower Arranging Classes from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. $5.00 Materials Fee

AMPHITHEATER

3:00 p.m. PMX/Doll Delight Fashion Show

Performers and Set Times Subject to Change Without Notice PERFORMERS

HALAU HULA MOANI’A’ALA ANUHEA Based in Monterey Park, this group opened its doors in 2007. Under the direction of Christina Aiu-Quezada, this school is founded on the practices and principles of traditional hula school whose roots trace back to the island of Kaua’i.

NANCY HAYATA - CLASSICAL JAPANESE DANCE Nancy Teramura Hayata lives life with a love of what is new and exciting, yet places a strong emphasis on the beauty and the traditions of her Japanese ancestry. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she studied Nihon Buyo under Fujima Chiseye Sensei for nearly twenty years. She also studied AZUMA KOTOBUKI KAI Minyo Dance under Imoto Hoshunjyu Sensei. Nancy The Azuma Kotobuki Kai, a branch of the Azuma-Ryu teaches Japanese dance in Little Tokyo and choreographs Classical Dance School (Tokyo, Japan), was established in the majority of the dances that she performs. She choreo- Southern California in 1968 by Madame Sumako Azuma I. graphed and taught the Week Court their Japanese The current instructors are Sumako Azuma II (Los Angeles) dance for the 2014 Coronation. Nancy has over 10 years of and Kikusue Azuma (LA, Orange and Ventura Counties and experience choreographing events and fashion show pro- Kapa’a Hawaii). While the instructors teach many classical ductions in conjunction with celebrities such as Jamie Foxx, dances, they also break new ground by incorporating Chris Noth, Marla Maples, Snoop Dogg, and Gilles Marini, to classical dance technique with modern music to help reach name a few. She also worked on a project with Michael the younger generations. The purpose of the Azuma Bearden (the late Michael Jackson’s Music Director). She is Kotobuki Kai is to preserve and promote Japanese culture self employed, and owns a web/graphic design business. through the art of Nihon Buyo, or classical Japanese dance. ILLUSIONS BY ALLEN MADAME FUMI AKUTAGAWA - Allen Oshiro has been perfecting his magic since the age of KIMONO FASHION SHOW five! He is well known for his amazing magic using live Madame Fumi Akutagawa has been teaching Japanese rabbits and doves, astonishing slight of hand tricks and even culture and arts in Southern California since 1976. She also incredible levitations. holds master degrees from Koryu Shoto-Kai School of Ikebana and the First Kimono Academy in both Japan. She KAYAMA PUPPET THEATER traveled a number of times to both Europe and America as a Performance of Japanese folk tales using hand puppets member of the Japan Kimono Mission. Frequently, Mme. made from clay and foam. The puppet show theater was Akutagawa demonstrates the art of kimono dressing in founded by Isoko Kayama of Los Angeles. various festivals and venues in Southern California. Her kimono expertise was tapped when she worked on the films “Memoirs of Geisha” and “Spiderman.” She has served as KOTOBUKI NO KAI Japanese culture consultant for three separate productions This group is the Los Angeles Headquarters for Nippon of the opera “Madame Butterfly.” Currently, she teaches Minyo Kenkyu Kai based in Nagoya Japan. Nippon Minyo weekly classes in kimono dressing and Japanese tea Kenkyu Kai is considered one of the largest Minyo dance ceremony, both in Little Tokyo and at her residence in groups. Shihan Imoto Hoshun-Jyu Sensei teaches Japanese Moorpark, Ventura County. Folk Dance or Minyo Odori in the classical Minyo as well as Shin or new Minyo style. She also teaches Kayo Buyo or GARVEY RANCH PARK DOJO Dance accompanied by Popular Song. Kotobuki No Kai was The student of American Nippon Kenpo learns self-defense the first group from the United States to be invited to th techniques with an emphasis on punching, blocking, kicking, perform on stage at the the 50 Anniversary of Nippon throwing, locks, chokes, and ground combat. Ultimately, the Minyo Kenkyukai in Nagoya, Japan. student acquires a great sense of discipline and self- confidence. Because of our affiliation with the Osaka Nippon Kenpo Federation, our students are allowed to travel to Special thanks to the Performers, Exhibitors, Japan every year for the International Nippon Kenpo Championship Tournament. Those who are interested train Demonstrators, Vendors, Volunteers, Visitors and Supporters throughout the year in hopes of qualifying. of our Fundraisers who continue to make our Festival a success. We look forward to working with all of you again ! PERFORMERS

KYODO TAIKO Kyodo Taiko is the nation's first and oldest collegiate taiko drumming team. For 25 years, Kyodo Taiko has provided the unique form of Japanese drumming to both UCLA and the surrounding communities through captivating performances and interactive workshops. Kyodo has two meanings – one “family” and the other, “loud children.” Kyodo functions as a family, sharing the joy and spirit of Taiko while teaching its members, UCLA students and faculty, and the surrounding community the importance of performing arts and the cultural values of Japanese American and Asian American identities.

MAGIC WAYNE KOSHIN TAIKO Wayne is a full-time, professional magician who performs Koshin Taiko was brought to life in 1992 under the direction hundreds of shows each year and does magic in restaurants of Sensei Etsuo Hongo. He based his teachings on many of and bars. He’s the author of the beginner’s magic book, the qualities of Sukeroku style of Taiko, which he learned “Picture Yourself As a Magician”. The New York Times while studying with Oedo Sukeroku Taiko in Tokyo. His employs him as its magic editor on Magic.About.com. Also, vision is currently being passed on to the next generation of he is a regular Performer at Hollywood's Magic Castle. Koshin members through directors Lori Miyakawa, Wesley Hayashi and Koshin founder Virginia Minami. Koshin is unique in its exclusive use of Okedou "roped tight- ened" drums which have been hand crafted by members. MARK KEPPEL HIGH SCHOOL AZTEC SINGERS They strive to perform with a high level of visually uniform This group is a competitive show and concert choir. Since Kata and musicality to bring out the full spectrum of sounds 1985, the Mark Keppel Aztec Singers have established a of the Taiko. This is possible due to their high level of dedi- Tradition of producing outstanding annual show cation and practice out of the Venice Japanese Community productions, festival participation and community concerts Center. Together, they bring a bright and spirit-filled energy across California. into each and every performance. It is this quality which defines Koshin as "Bright Heart and Spirit."

KUNTAU MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY The World Famous Kuntau Academy demonstrates Karate and Kung-Fu Forms and fighting techniques to modern music with fighting scenes that have been performed in Germany, Mexico and all over the United States. This dynamic team is trained by the two-time World Champion and Hall of Fame Master Luis A Mayoral who has been teaching Martial Arts since 1966. The academy educates the students in anatomy, physical conditioning, performing safety, stunt work, martial arts, and the performing arts stage work, instilling pride, self confidence and discipline. MARK KEPPEL HIGH SCHOOL PEP BAND KYO NO KAI KABUKI The Aztec Pep Band is a smaller version of the Mark Keppel “Kyo no Kai” is an organization founded and headed by High School Aztec Band that performs at sports games and Kabuki actor Nakamura Gankyo (aka Bando Hiroshichiro). community events. The Band is under the direction of Dr. The mission of Kyo no Kai is to teach and promote various Carla Bartlett and Drum Majors Lauren Fukushima, Anna aspects of traditional Japanese culture with the emphasis on Wu, and Cristian Diaz. Today the Pep Band will perform the performance art of Kabuki- (“ka” to act, “bu” to dance, popular musical arrangements, including Best Day of My “ki” ability) to people all over the world. Life, Uptown Funk, and Shake It Off. PERFORMERS

MELE OHANA UKULELE PACIFIC MEDIA ASSOCIATION/PMX Mele Ohana is a community based ukulele group which Pacific Media Association (PMA) is dedicated to promoting started on "the island" of Gardena, California by its kumu the Pacific Rim's entertainment and media industries. Randy Dacoscos. The group is now led by Mike Gregan who PMA specializes in Asia’s cultural exports, such as anime and teaches ukulele classes at the City of Los Angeles Barnsdall manga, music and live entertainment, live-action television Art Center in Hollywood. The group maintains its strong ties and films, and diverse cultural lifestyles, while building with Gardena through its association with Kawika Dacoscos, creative communities and promoting Asian awareness Reid Kapo Ku and its original members. within the North American continent. PMA is the parent of Pacific Media Expo. Pacific Media Expo is a new generation of convention for a new generation of fans! PMX brings the NAGAUTA: MATSUTOYO-YAMATOGAKU cutting edge of Asian entertainment to America, whether it This kind of traditional Japanese music accompanies the is the newest anime from Japan, the hottest bands from the kabuki theater. They were developed around 1740. Pacific Rim, the latest street fashion from Harajuku, or the Influences included the vocal yōkyoku style used in noh most disturbing horror films from Asia. PMX Fashion was theater, and instruments including the shamisen and established to help promote Harajuku fashion and the in- various kinds of drums. The shamisen, a plucked lute with ternational designs it has inspired . PMX/DollDelight will three strings, is a very popular instrument in nagauta. present a Fashion Show and PMX/Infotakus will hold a Nagauta performers generally play the shamisen and sing Cosplay Runway Fashion Show, both featuring an extrava- simultaneously. ganza of amazing costumes in all genres.

RYUKYUKOKU MATSURI DAIKO The group name literally translates to “Ryukyu Kingdom Festival Drums”. Ryukyu Kingdom is the ancient name for what is presently known as the Okinawa prefecture of Japan. Ryukyukoku Matsuri Daiko is modeled on the traditional Okinawan obon festival drum dancing called “eisa”. The performers dance and rum simultaneously to an exciting blend of traditional and contemporary Okinawan and Japanese music. The organization was founded in 1982 in Okinawa. The Los Angeles chapter was established in 1995, and has performed at such venues as the Nisei Week Parade, U.S. Japan Expo and LA County Fair.

OHANA POLYNESIAN DANCERS Ohana Polynesian Dancers are a group of family members connected by family values and united sharing Polynesian culture through music, dance and entertainment. Based in Diamond Bar/Walnut California, under the direction of Thela Leimamo Nink and daughter Christa Kamalani Nink, professional dancer, teacher/choreographer. They provide SUNNY AND JUDY SEKI lessons for all age groups and dance levels in Tahitian, Sunny Seki is the author/illustrator of three Japanese Hawaiian, Maori poi balls, drumming, and ukulele. children’s books: Yuko-chan and the Daruma Doll, The Last Members have traveled and performed at Tokyo Disney, of Old Japan, and The Tale of the Lucky Cat, which China, Tahiti and Hawaii and are available for booking. won awards from NAPPA Parenting Publishing and Creative Child Magazine. Born in Tokyo in 1947, he graduated from Want to be part of the 2017 Monterey Park Nihon Daigaku with a degree in Photography. He then came to the United States, where he studied illustration at Cherry Blossom Festival? Pasadena Art Center of Design. For the next 32 years he operated Sunny Seki Photography in Rosemead. Today he Stop by our information booth for more details on how to become presents his books and other at a member of the planning committee or a sponsor of this great event! community events. Sunny and wife Judy have nine children, We are always looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers! and they live in San Gabriel. PERFORMERS

MARIO SEKI TORRES KEMPO KARATE Mario Seki is a young magician from Los Angeles. He has Lead by Sensei David Torres, a 10th degree black belt, been performing magic for over ten years and he is a with over 40 years of martial arts training, students will member of the Magic Castle and International Brotherhood demonstrate traditional Kempo Karate. The group has of Magicians. He took first place in the 2013 Junior Stage performed across the United States and has won a Competition of the Pacific Coast Association of Magicians number of National Championships. and is an annual performer at the Magic Castle Future Stars of Magic Week.

SHINSHI Shinshi means “gentleman” in Japanese language as an aspiring gentleman of bossa nova. Shinshi was seventeen years old when he first started playing the guitar. His heart was captured by the beauty of Bossa Nova when he first heard Neon Genesis Evangelion’s version of “Fly Me To The Moon.” Since then he has performed in various sessions as a “Bossanovista” as well as participated in other sessions involving Samba and West African music. He has performed anime songs and bossa nova songs in Anime Los Angeles. Currently he plays bossa nova at Japanese bar Can-zo in Gardena every Monday night.

U.S. CHINESE WU SHU MARTIAL ARTS TEAM Wu Shu is China's national sport, largely a performance version of various martial art styles. The team performs under the direction of Coach Ming Qiu, who started training at the Jiang Su Wu Shu academy and won many gold medals in the Chinese championships. In 1995, she moved to Monterey Park and competed for team Paul Mitchell in the North American Sport Karate Association (NASKA) for five years and was awarded the 1999 Black Belt magazine's Competitor of the Year. She worked on more than 60 movies and television shows as a stunt- woman and was honored by the Diamond in the Raw Foundation. She teaches Sunday mornings in Barnes Park.

YOKI DAIKO TAIKOPROJECT Yoki Daiko, which means Joyous Drumming, was formed BOMBU/KITSUNE/TANUKI TAIKO during the summer of 1996 at the Tenrikyo Church in TAIKOPROJECT was founded in 2000 in Los Angeles by a Boyle Heights. Through the dynamic rhythms of Japanese group of young, emerging taiko drummers. They were drumming, Yoki Daiko strives to bring positive energy seeking to create a truly American style of taiko, blending wherever it performs and to create a vibe that everyone traditional forms in which they were raised with an can live a joyous life together as brothers and sisters. innovative and fresh aesthetic approach to the Japanese drum. YUUJOU DAIKO Yuujou Daiko was established in 2012 through their Kitsune Taiko was founded in 2002 and is named after the friendship and shared goals – Yuujou meaning friendship. mischievous kitsune fox of . Now in its Yuujou Daiko is dedicated to mastering the beautiful art eleventh year, Kitsune Taiko, is still the baddest youth taiko of Japanese taiko drumming and bringing its high energy group to hit Little Tokyo. Bombu Taiko is a and powerful sounds to communities throughout community-based taiko group, named by Rinban Ito after Southern California. Yuujou also believes in educating its the "Bombu" of Buddhist philosophy. Tanuki Taiko is the audience by sharing taiko’s cultural roots, history and newest group to join the TAIKOPROJECT family and their philosophies through their performances and taiko classes youngest group of drummers. Ranging in age from 7 to 11, taught both in the South Bay area and South San Gabriel. these feisty youngsters represent the future of taiko . They would like to share this energy of taiko with you. EXHIBITORS

SOGETSU IKEBANA This group practices a modern form of the ancient Japanese Cultural Art. The motto of the school is to make beautiful arrangements with any materials, in any place, by anyone. The group will present demonstrations by master instructors and an exhibition will feature arrangements created by advanced students as well as beginners.

There will be special workshops offered each day of the festival from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. in the Gym for anyone interested in trying their hands at creating a work of living art to take home. Materials fee is $5.00.

IKEBANA Ikebana is the art of beautifully arranging cut stems, leaves, and flowers in vases and other containers that evolved in Japan over seven centuries.

Over the seven centuries of its evolution, ikebanahas developed many different styles of arrangement. Among the most common are the rikka (standing flowers), seikaor shoka (living flowers), and nageire (flung flowers) styles when making arrangements in bowl-shaped vases and the moribana (piled-up flowers) style when using dish-like containers.

The choice of what flowers to arrange is guided by the desire to create harmony between flower and container and to find flowers that blend in well with its surroundings. Although layer after layer SUMI-E of flowers are used in Western floral arrangements, in ikebana, the Sumi-e Ink wash painting, also known as literati painting is an East key consideration is to use as few stems and leaves as possible in Asian type of brush painting that uses black ink—the same as used composing elegant contours that highlight the flowers' beauty. in East Asian calligraphy, in various concentrations. Asian aesthetic writing is generally consistent in stating the goal of ink and wash painting is not simply to reproduce the appearance of the subject, but to capture its spirit. To paint a horse, the ink wash painting artist must understand its temperament better than its muscles and bones. To paint a flower, there is no need to perfectly match its petals and colors, but it is essential to convey its liveliness and fragrance. East Asian ink wash painting may be regarded as a form of expressionistic art that captures the unseen.Ink wash painting uses tonality and shading achieved by varying the ink density, both by differential grinding of the ink stick in water and by varying the ink load and pressure within a single brushstroke. Ink wash paint- ing artists spend years practicing basic brush strokes to refine their brush movement and ink flow. In the hand of a master, a single stroke can produce astonishing variations in tonality, from deep black to silvery gray.

Where can you see Cherry Blossom Trees? LONG BEACH SUMI-E The Long Beach Sumi-e Group fosters an understanding of and City Hall, 320 W. Newmark Avenue, Monterey Park appreciation of sumi-e, traditional Japanese ink wash painting. Garvey Ranch Park, 781 S. Orange Avenue, Monterey Park Victory Park, 575 Paloma Street, Pasadena San Rafael Park, Colorado Blvd/Melrose Avenue, Pasadena EXHIBITORS/DEMONSTRATORS

JAPANESE TEA CEREMONY - URASENKE SCHOOL

The Japanese tea ceremony (cha-no-yu, chado or sado) is a traditional ritual influenced by Zen Buddhism in which prepared by a skilled practitioner and served to a small group of guests in a tranquil setting. Cha-no-yu, literally “hot water for tea”, usually refers to a single ceremony or ritual, while sado or chado refer to the study or doctrine of tea ceremony.

Since a tea practitioner must be familiar with the production of types of tea, with kimono, calligraphy, flower arranging, ceramics, incense and a wide range of other disciplines and traditional arts in addition to his or her school’s tea practices, the study of tea KIMEKOMI NINGYO DOLLS ceremony takes many years and often lasts a lifetime. HIROFUMI KAI Kimikomi dolls were first crafted about 250 years ago, during the Genbun Era in Japan. Kimekomi dolls are also known as Gamo Dolls, or Willow Dolls (Yanagi Ningyou). The Founder of Hirofumi Kai, Mataro Kanabayashi, revived the orthodox technique of the Gamo doll. In reviving this method, the modern craft of the unique Mataro doll was established.

The method of producing the doll’s figure has changed from that of the early days, when the body was carved from a pieces of wood. Nowadays, we blend Paulownia sawdust with paste to produce the model. As a result of this, Kimekomi dolls are now available to many people.

YUKARI KAI Kyuka (Kari) Kanesaka will present hand-crafted dolls with hand- painted porcelain faces (heads) and wooden bodies dressed in beautiful Japanese fabric. Yukari Kai will also be doing demonstra- It is with sadness and our deepest sympathy that we announce tions throughout the festival and answer questions about these the passing of Kazutaka “Kaz” Osumi. dolls and the traditions behind them. Kaz has been demonstrating the traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the Cherry Blossom Festival for many years. He will truly be missed. Our condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace. INTERNMENT CAMP PHOTO DISPLAY BY Kazutaka Osumi was born in Los Angeles. He grew up in STONE ISHIMARU Montebello, went to La Merced Elementary and Intermediate Following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Schools, Montebello High School and Mount San Antonio College. U.S. residents feared more Japanese attacks on their cities, homes, He went to Fullerton University and graduated with a B.A. and business. Leaders in California, Oregon and Washington in Japanese language in June 2014. demanded that the residents of Japanese ancestry be removed Kazutaka began studying the traditional Japanese tea ceremony from their homes along the coast and relocated in isolated inland under his mother’s tutelage in 2004. He continued studying with areas. As a result of this pressure, on February 19, 1942, President his great aunt Sosei Matumoto. He attained his Charmei (tea Roosevelt signed , which resulted in the ceremony name) Soryu Osumi through his great aunt from forcible internment of 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry. Urasenke School in Kyoto, Japan in 2013. In the summer of 2014, Internment camps were scattered all over the interior West, where he went to Urasenke School to study further with a one-year Japanese-Americans were forced to carry on their lives under scholarship. He attended the one-year course of Midorikai and harsh conditions. Executive Order 9066 was rescinded by President successfully completed the course in June 2015. He returned to the Roosevelt in 1944, and the last of the camps was closed in March USA to continue his tea practice. 1946. Come visit this unique photo display documenting life at ten different internment camps, including Poston, AZ, Tule Lake, During his tea career in the USA, he taught the tea ceremony at the CA, Manzanar, CA and Gila River, AZ. Japanese Language School, Kyodo System, and at Nichiren Buddhist Temple in Los Angeles. He did numerous lectures and demonstrations at schools, colleges, universities, community events and private gatherings and participated at many public events; e.g., the Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival, Arcadia City Cup Family Day, Little Tokyo Nisei Week Festival, etc. Origami as a craft inculcates creativity and patience. This inexpensive and fun hobby can keep you enthralled for hours on end.

EXHIBITORS/DEMONSTRATORS

ORIGAMI Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. The word origami is derived from 2 Japanese words - 'oru' which means to fold and 'kami' which means paper. With right paper folding techniques, you can watch interesting shapes and creations unfold before your eyes. Origami is a craft that requires patience and precision but it is also an art that demands creativity.

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM The mission of the Japanese American National Museum is to promote understanding and appreciation of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Japanese American experience. In addition to its exhibitions and slate of related public programs, JANM hosts approximately 10,000 K–12 students every year; produces high-quality videos capturing community oral histories and museum programming; operates DiscoverNikkei.org, a rich, web-based resource for Japanese immigrant communities all over the world; and partners with numerous institutions to present an array of specialty programming. The museum offers several free family days each year, featuring engaging activities for visitors of MICHAEL SANDERS all ages. Michael Sanders is a 13 year member of the Westcoast Origami Guild and Origami USA, and for more than a decade he has been AIKO INSTITUTE entertaining children and adults alike with the magic of origami. Supporting the Japanese arts of Zen Brush (Shodo) and Aikido, Aiko Institute will display and offer for sale some Shodo pieces. Festival-goers may try their hands at Shodo. Literature on Aikido Join Michael Sanders and the Japanese American National Museum classes will be available as well. for free origami demonstrations and lessons in the gymnasium.

OSAMU SAITO Osamu Saito was born in Hokkaido, Japan. He studied sign design, Sumi-e (Japanese ink painting), calligraphy, and watercolor, acrylic and oil painting, both in Japan and in the United States. He moved to Southern California in 1975 to study and broaden his creative ideas and techniques. Osamu is the recipient of numerous awards from art competitions throughout California. He was a member of Rental and Sale gallery at LACMA for five years where his watercolor paintings had been exhibited. In 2001, his watercolor paintings were in three watercolor books published in Japan. He teaches watercolor at Yosemite National Park Art Center on the first week of September every year and he currently teaches at the Ken Nakaoka Center in Gardena, California.

MONTEREY PARK BRUGGEMEYER LIBRARY The mission of the Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is to meet Kids’ Crafts the cultural, educational, and informational needs of the residents of the City of Monterey Park by providing free and open access to There will be free craft activities for the kids. its resources and services. Library staff and volunteers will be promoting library programs and services including story times for Come check out all the cool things you can make children and teen activities. and take home! Origami as a craft inculcates creativity and patience. This inexpensive and fun hobby can keep you enthralled for hours on end.

COMMUNITY/COMMERCIAL BOOTHS

ACS GROUP - Energy Savings Assistance Program connected NATIONAL ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN FAMILIES with Southern California Edison providing information on no-cost AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE - NAPAFASA will provide energy savings weatherization for residences public health information promoting the prevention and treatment of smoking, substance abuse and gambling disorders ALHAMBRA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION - Representing educators in the Alhambra and Monterey Park communities and OCA - GLA - The local chapter of a national, non-partisan and providing information of supporting public education non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the social, political and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans ASIAN AMERICANS ADVANCING JUSTICE - Information about the free immigration services (e.g. DACA) that ST. THOMAS AQUINAS SCHOOL - The school will our non profit organization provides. provide brochures, summer school flyers and school pencils. Come

meet the principal, school faculty and/or STA School parents. ASIAN AMERICANS PACIFIC ISLANDERS FOR BERNIE - AAPI4B is a nationwide grassroots group of Asian TRINITY CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE American supporters for Bernie Sanders who will also be offering voter registration for all individuals U.S. CENSUS BUREAU - Promoting the 2016 Census test

CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE - WORLD DIVINE LIGHT ORGANIZATION - Information Free information guides on California’s low cost auto Insurance and demonstrations of spiritual purification art of Divine Light, a program, life and residential insurance and consumer rights type of healing energy that originated from Japan.

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL - Exhibit will include educational and career/recruitment pamphlets CHARM CASINO ENTERTAINMENT - Casino equipment rentals

CALIFORNIA TELEPHONE ACCESS PROGRAM - CTAP is a State program providing free telephone and adaptive FOREST LAWN MEMORIAL PARK - Providing equipment to individuals with hearing, vision, mobility, speech or complimentary information on activities such as Easter Sunrise cognition challenges Service, Understanding Grief seminars, free museum visits, etc.

CHILDRENNMOTION - Promoting a healthier lifestyle for KRASNODARA GASHPAROVA, DDS - Dental services kids through exercise and healthy eating I LORI & COMPANY - Security/Protection including dummy COSMIC TRAINING CENTER - Martial arts school cams, stun guns, pepper spray, security frame, stun cane, etc.

END MALARIA NOW - Raises awareness of the effects of RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN - Information on replacement malaria on families in Africa and engages the public on how to help doors and windows for homes

ROSE HILLS MEMORIAL PARK - Promoting advanced GUAN YIN CITTA - Providing free books and information on planning programs Buddhism

SAITO & MADAN MEDIATION - Estate planning and LOS ANGELES CONFUCIUS EDUCATION SCHOOL - mediation services A school display/exhibit with parenting information and our education program T-MOBILE - Cell phones, accessories and service LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR/RECORDER - Community and voter outreach informing people of their voting U.S. STORAGE CENTERS - US Storage Centers (USSC) has rights and encouraging them to register to vote helped thousands of its customers organize their lives by delivering convenient and affordable self-storage solutions since 1985 MONTEREY PARK CENTENNIAL - Information on the upcoming special events and activities commemorating and WELLS FARGO - Financial services celebrating Monterey Park’s 100th birthday

WINNING WAYS - Promoting Wyndham Resorts and their MONTEREY PARK MUSIC STUDIO - Teaching children vacation resorts in California music to develop appropriate social behavior and interaction and to create trust and support, which will inspire every student to feel confidence in expressing their thoughts in school and in public XTREME CANTEEN - Sports water bottles and lids DEMONSTRATORS / FOOD

SUSHI CHEF Japanese Dining Etiquette INSTITUTE Chefs of and sushi, Itadakimasu and Gochisosama much like artists, use In Japan, it is customary to say itadakimasu (literally "I [humbly] their unfilled canvas receive") before starting to eat a meal. When saying itadakimasu, both and craft works of art hands are put together in front of the chest or on the lap. Itadakimasu to indulge not only is preceded by complimenting the appearance of food. The Japanese with one’s eye but attach as much importance to the aesthetic arrangement of the food as with their palates. This its actual taste. Before touching the food, it is polite to compliment the host on his artistry. Remember also to wait for the honored or eldest ritual has existed for centuries and is a time guest at the table to start eating before you do. Another custom is to capsule from genera- say go-chisō-sama deshita (literally "It was a feast") to the host after the tion to generation of meal and the restaurant staff when leaving. legacies from their forefathers. Sushi has Bowls become the food of choice among fitness and health-oriented The rice or the soup is eaten by picking up the bowl with the left hand communities, not to mention its fashionable mark in society, and using chopsticks (hashi) with the right, or vice versa if you are left- simply due to its natural and wholesome ingredients that are handed. Traditionally, chopsticks were held in the right hand and the mostly found in nature. bowl in the left – in fact, Japanese children were taught to distinguish left from right as "the right hand holds the chopsticks, the left hand The Sushi Chef Institute teaches their students the authentic holds the bowl" – but left-handed eating is acceptable today. Bowls may methods and philosophies, which ultimately integrate with each be lifted to the mouth, but should not be touched by the mouth except individual’s technique and expertise. The curriculum includes when drinking soup. The Japanese customarily slurp noodle soup dishes training students on proper sanitation procedures, safe food like , , and . When slurping noodles quickly, the soup handling and business management of a well functioning clings to the noodles, making the dish more flavourful. restaurant. Upon completion, SCI offers students job placement from a network of chefs and restaurants all around the world. Chopsticks The proper usage of chopsticks (hashi) is the most important table etiquette in Japan. Chopsticks are never left sticking vertically into rice, as this resembles incense sticks (which are usually placed vertically in FUGETSU-DO sand) during offerings to the dead. This may easily offend some Fugetsu-Do has been a family owned and operated confectionery Japanese people. Using chopsticks to spear food or to point is also store in Little Tokyo since 1903. cakes, more frowned upon and it is considered very bad manners to bite chopsticks. commonly known as (rice cake) and manju (sweet bean Other important chopsticks rules to remember include the following: filled rice cake), are the staple. The shop, which is currently  Hold your chopsticks towards their end, and not in the middle or operated by Brian Kito, is located on East First Street in the Historic the front third. District of Little Tokyo  When you are not using your chopsticks and when you are finished

eating, lay them down in front of you with the tip to left. Founder Seiichi Kito was born in Gifu, in Central Japan. Seiichi came to the United States in May 1903 and went to where other  Do not pass food with your chopsticks directly to somebody else's Japanese immigrants were—in the East First Street District of Los chopsticks. Only at funerals are the bones of the cremated body Angeles. Seiichi started producing sweets and opened Fugetsu-Do given in that way from person to person. with a couple of friends. Fugetsu-Do’s success was largely due to  Do not move your chopsticks around in the air too much, nor play the hard work of the entire Kito family. with them.

 Do not move around plates or bowls with chopsticks. In the past few years the number of visitors to Little Tokyo has To separate a piece of food into two pieces, exert controlled pressure increased and the area has welcomed new residents with the on the chopsticks while moving them apart from each other. revitalization of downtown Los Angeles. For this diverse public

Brian has introduced peanut butter and chocolate mochi and Communal dish strawberry manju. Meanwhile Fugetsu-Do also counts on the local When taking food from a communal dish, unless they are family or very Buddhist Temples and the Japanese grocery stores as regular close friends, one should turn the chopsticks around to grab the food; customers. Japanese holidays such as New Year’s Day (1/1), Girl’s it is considered more sanitary. Alternatively, one could have a separate Day (3/3) and Boy’s Day (5/5) also bring an influx of extra business, set of chopsticks for communal dishes. as special mochi and manju are made for those specific occasions.

-taken from A History of Fugetsu-Do by Nancy Kikuchi- Sharing If sharing food with someone else, move it directly from one plate to another. Never pass food from one pair of chopsticks to another, as this recalls passing bones during a funeral. VISIT OUR FOOD COURT

CHICKEN - SODAS - BOTTLED WATER SHAVED ICE - IMAGAWAYAKI Cherry Blossom Festival Committee Eastside Optimist Club BEEF TERIYAKI - POKE TUNA BOWL (JAPANESE DONUTS) Jets LA Nets CHILI RICE - CHICKEN CURRY RICE BOWL MANJU Mark Keppel High School PTSA Fugetsu-Do CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD - SPAM MUSUBI PASSION FRUIT ICED TEA - WINTERMELON TEA Monterey Park Mustangs Buddhist Ortho Creed Association CORN ON THE COB - BAKED YAMS ITALIAN ICE - LEMONADE Gera’s Corn BOBA TEA - THAI TEA - ICED TEA Kwee Concessions PORK/CHICKEN ADOBO - PANCIT - EGG ROLLS LECHON - RICE L.A. La Catering IMAGAWAYAKI (今川焼き) is a Japanese dessert SOMEN - HOT DOGS - CHILI DOGS - NACHOS often found at festivals. It is made of batter in a special pan Nishi Junior Young Buddhist Association (similar to a waffle iron but without the honeycomb SALMON TERIYAKI - FRIED WONTONS pattern), and filled with sweet azuki bean paste, although it Little Tokyo Public Safety Association is becoming increasingly popular to use a wider variety of fillings such as vanilla custard, different fruit custards and SUSHI preserves, curry, different meat and vegetable fillings, Sushi Chef Institute potato and . (FISH BALLS W/OCTOPUS) Takoyaki Tanota LLC SOMEN (素麺) are very thin white made TWISTED POTATO - KOREAN BBQ - BBQ SQUID - RAMEN of wheat flour. The noodles are usually served cold. The Miister Potato noodles' diameter is the chief distinction between sōmen and the thicker wheat noodles hiyamugi and Japanese wheat noodles udon. Somen noodles are usually served cold with a light flavored dipping sauce or tsuyu. The tsuyu is usually a -based sauce that can be flavored with SUSHI (すし、寿司, 鮨, 鮓, 寿斗, 寿し, 壽司) is a Welsh onion, ginger, or . In the summer, somen Japanese dish consisting of cooked vinegared rice which is chilled with ice is a popular meal to help stay cool. commonly topped with other ingredients, such as fish or other seafood, or put into rolls. SPAM MUSUBI is a popular snack and lunch food in Makizushi (巻寿司, "rolled sushi"), Norimaki (海苔巻き, Hawaii composed a slice of grilled Spam on top of a block of " roll") or makimono (巻物, "variety of rolls") is a rice, wrapped together with dried seaweed (nori). Spam cylindrical piece, formed with the help of a bamboo mat, became a popular food in Hawaii after World War II. Spam was a main course for the troops during the war, and the called a makisu (巻簾). Makizushi is generally wrapped in large military presence in Hawaii led to Spam's widespread nori, but can occasionally be found wrapped in a thin local adoption. Local Japanese created the Spam musubi as omelette, soy paper, cucumber, or parsley. Makizushi is a result. usually cut into six or eight pieces, which constitutes a single roll order. TAKOYAKI (たこ焼き or 蛸焼), literally fried or grilled Inarizushi (稲荷寿司) is a pouch of fried filled with octopus, is a popular ball-shaped Japanese dumpling or usually just sushi rice. It is named after the Shinto god Inari, more like a savory pancake made of batter and cooked in a who is believed to have a fondness for fried tofu. The pouch special takoyaki pan. It is typically filled with diced octopus, is normally fashioned as deep-fried tofu (油揚げ, abura scraps, pickled ginger, and green onion. Nowadays, age). It should not be confused with inari maki, which is a it is commonly brushed with takoyaki sauce and roll filled with flavored fried tofu. mayonnaise, and topped with (aonori) and katsuobushi (shavings of dried bonito). CRAFT VENDORS

Maneki Neko in Japanese means “beckoning cat.” The cat has its paw raised as if it’s waving in good fortune for its owners. While you’ll most commonly see a white Maneki Neko with orange and black spots, each variation has a special meaning.

Calico Cat: (modeled after the Japanese bob-tail breed, this is a popular & traditional color for lucky cats, beckoning general good luck, wealth, prosperity) White Cat: purity, happiness Black Cat: safety, wards off evil and stalkers Golden Cat: wealth and prosperity Red Cat: protection from evil & illness (especially illness in children) Pink Cat (a more modern color): love, relationships and romance Green Cat (also a modern color): educations/studies

Right Paw raised: invites money and good fortune (usually to businesses) Left Paw raised: invites customers or people Maneki Neko Both Paws raised: invites protection of home or business Coin: wealth and material abundance Bib and Bell: may relate to protection, as well as wealth and material abundance

LAURA BENSON - Japanese, Asian and Hawaiian themed PAIN-FREE PILLOW - PainFreeProducts' unique and items including refrigerator handles, scrubbies, foot mops, stylish PainFreePillowTM Activates with Pressure, making it Pain insulated totes, purses, wallets and accessories Free to use at work, in a vehicle, while traveling, or at home!

SHIGEKO DA SILVA - Japanese-style sumi-e paintings and PAPERFLAVOR - Stationery, tote bags, baby and kiddo apparel, craft bags women’s t-shirts featuring the original “flavor kid” characters

DOLL DELIGHT - A fashion line of original Lolita dresses and PAWS AND PALS - Maneki Neko, Hello Kitty and cat jewelry, accessories made by Cyril Lumboy. Her major influence is the purses, shoes, clothing and gift items and Japanese Anime items Harajuku street style and Lolita fashion. PUJA - Henna art ELEGANT BEADS DESIGN - Hats and flowers, freshwater pearls, crystals, semi-precious stones, porcelain and bead jewelry RHITRIE CRYSTALS - Rocks and crystal jewelry

HAWAIIAN FRAGRANT CRYSTALS - Hawaiian salt SISTAHS - Hawaiian insulated reusable bags, totes, potpourri, oil burners, air plant globes and original Hawaiian art purses, wallets, blankets and stickers, Island Heritage products, and jewelry Old Guys Rule t-shirts and metal pool and beach signs

JEWELRY BY NELLY - Handmade jewelry and clothing SETSU ART - Fine art, pressed flower items, mini ceramics and painted leather items LA PETITE DEER - Handmade hair accessories, jewelry and small gift items in the kawaii style for women and girls - making JOEN SIAUW - Pillows, bracelets and pencil sharpeners classic FUN SKY ELEPHANT - Silk and linen scarves from Asia, Fair Trade MIDDLE AGE MADNESS - Asian money leis, aprons, purses, bead accessories, stoles and obi bags, table runners and many hooded towels, felt ornaments, scarves, gift bags, jewelry and Japanese goods knitted hats SPECIAL TOUCH - Jewelry, wallets, hair accessories, purses, MOSAR - Charm bracelets, pillows, t-shirts and cosmetic bags dog clothes, harnesses, stuffed animals, dolls, and hand-painted wood items

M. LIN - Handmade jewelry TISHACS - Hats, belts, cowgirl accessories, shawls, Western wear and umbrellas ORIGAMI OWL - Custom jewelry. Every locket tells a story … endless possibilities to personalize lockets, bracelets, watches and earrings UCHI NI KAERU - Imported kimonos and accessories and presentations on Japanese textiles and how to wear a kimono, yukata and obi. .JUST FOR FUN

Favorite Japanese Expressions Make an Origami Sumo Wrestler

Life is full of ki-do-ai-raku (kee-doh-ah-ee-rah-koo; delight-anger- sorrow-fun), and some phrases slip out of our mouths repeatedly in response to different daily situations. Master these common Japanese expressions and use them casually to sound like a native.

Â, sô desu ka (ahh, sohh deh-soo kah; Oh, I see.) Say Â, sô desu ka every time your conversational partner provides a new piece of information. You need to acknowledge each new bit of info by saying, Oh, I see. Be sure to nod as you say this expression. If you talk casually with a Japanese person, you may use this phrase 200 times in one hour.

Â, yokatta (ahh, yoh-kaht-tah; Oh, good.) Say Â, yokatta every time you feel like saying What a relief or Oh, good. If you're Mr. or Ms. Worrier, you may say Â, yokatta ten times a day: Did I turn off the stove? My daughter was kidnapped! Yes, you did. No, she's right there behind you. Â, yokatta. Â, yokatta.

Dôshiyô (dohh-shee-yohh; What shall I do?) Say dôshiyô when you're in a panic and have no idea what to do. You can repeat it over and over while you try to think of what to do: Dôshiyô, dôshiyô, dôshiyô. Now, you sound like you're in big trouble. What happened? Oh, you've locked your car door with your keys inside?!

Nani (nah-nee; What?) Nani is a question word. It's handy when you talk with a Japanese person. Say nani when you don't hear or understand what the other person said. You can also say nani when you can't believe or don't like what you hear.

Hontô (hohn-tohh; Really?) Say hontô to confirm what you've just heard. Suppose your colleague tells you that she's getting married to your boss. Respond to the news by saying hontô. What if your friend says that he'll give his car to you for free? Say hontô before saying thank you. You can say hontô in a lot of situations in your daily life because so many unbelievable things happen every day.

Yatta (yaht-tah; I did it!) Say yatta when you accomplish something big, are offered a great opportunity, or feel victorious. Passing a difficult test, getting the job you wanted, or winning the lottery — these all qualify as yatta material. Visit the Game Zone! Play fun games and win prizes! For all ages!

Monterey Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2016 Sponsors & Donors * as of program printing *

SILVER SPONSORS Vickie Sill-Ohashi Cindy Terakawa In loving memory of Walter, Lily and Wally Tatsuno: Kenji Tatsuno & Family and Kennedy Capital Corporation

BRONZE SPONSORS

Francisco Alonso Longo Toyota-Scion-Lexus FIA Insurance Services, Inc. - James Matsushita Mary Kay Cosmetics - Emily Matsumura Hanayagi Rokufumi - Sharon Asao Monterey Park Nachikatsuura Sister City Association Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple ABA Pasadena Periodontal Associates: Shirley Hwong Dr. Wilson Morishita and Dr. Allan Charles David & Kathy Ikeda Sage Granada Park UMC Japanese School Yukio and Lilian Kawaratani Carol Tanita Dominic Lombardo - Venice Room Yama’s Auto Body Shop - Tak Yamagata

FRIENDS OF THE MONTEREY PARK CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Philip Hung, C.P.A. David Kato - Madison Hotel Sugar Fix Grant Ishibashi Ray Rockoff Leo Yamaninami

IN-KIND DONATIONS

Ralphs Supermarket Store #715 Rosa Gonzalez, Store Director Vanessa Rosales, Community Affairs Manager

IN MEMORY OF KATHY SHISHIMA RAFFLE TICKETS SPONSOR

Lorran Yano Fugetsu-Do

RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS

Biyoshi Salon - Dori Dea Biyoshi Salon - Warren Wong 38 Degrees Ale House & Grill and others!

We would appreciate your patronage of our generous sponsors and donors.