Clear Skies Make for an Enjoyable Festival!

www.huoa.org September/October 2015 Issue #158 Circulation 9,820 Clear Skies Make for an Enjoyable Festival! By Tom Yamamoto, Chair 33rd Okinawan Festival other Nature revealed her “Uchinanchu Spirit of Aloha” by holding back the hustling back and forth to retrieve and deliver items. The busy yet cohesive atmo- M heavy rains that persisted up until the day before this year’s Okinawan sphere of multi-generations working together celebrating the spirit of their culture Festival and replacing them with gleaming rays of sunshine. Blessed with clear skies would make for an ideal episode on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.” and rejuvenated spirits, festival goers and volunteers alike eagerly participated in the With that, on behalf of the HUOA, I want to offer my sincere gratitude to all the 33rd Okinawan Festival at Kapiolani Park on September 5 and 6. volunteers who put forth so much time and energy into making this festival a huge success! It is amazing that year after year we are able to accomplish this monumental feat! From the preplanning stages in May, many of you have been taking on these roles for years, and you never seem to skip a beat; you return straight back to the task at hand. Setting the foundation at the park a week prior to the festival is very labor inten- sive, and we deeply appreciate all the unloading of containers, digging trenches, lay- ing pipes, running electrical and gas lines, building booths and backdrops, setting up tents and equipment, and prepping the food on Friday. A special thanks to Governor and Mrs. Ige, who took time out of their busy Friday to help prepare andadogs at Jefferson Elementary with fellow Gaza Yonagusuku Doshi Kai members.

Governor and Mrs. Ige are flanked by HUOA President Mark Higa and President-elect Tom Yamamoto. Permeating throughout the festival grounds was the rich Okinawan culture, with the aroma of pig’s feet soup, champuru plates, Okinawa soba and andagi, the rhythmical beating of the taiko drums, and of course, the appearance of “Gosamaru,” Nakagusuku Village’s mascot, who posed for thousands of selfies. Completing the festival were various performing artists, festival wear, products from Okinawa and Hawaii, children’s games, plants, and exhibits that represented the past, present and Governor and Mrs. Ige worked side by side with fellow Gaza Yonagusuku Doshi Kai members at future of our Okinawan heritage and organization. Jefferson Elementary School Kitchen on Friday night, skewering hotdogs in preparation for Andadog New relationships were formed and old friends reunited as our guests from sales over two days at the Okinawan Festival. Okinawa representing performing artists, researchers, government officials, writers, What goes up must come down…and the Monday crew did an incredible job of and simply festival goers intermingled with members of our local community. Mayor doing just that: breaking down and cleaning up what took four days to set up, while Keisuke Hamada shook the hands of countless people as he and his staff proudly the hospitality crew providing meals in between. We really appreciate your efforts. represented Nakagusuku Village. We want to especially recognize Jane Serikaku and the HUOA office staff who Strolling along the food booths, Heiwa Doori, Country Store, other tents, children’s worked tirelessly to coordinate festival matters on top of their regular duties. games, backstage, and even the unseen volunteers at Jefferson School, one could wit- Once again, for all of your hard work and contribution in planning for and volun- ness micro-communities of workers shouting out orders, running the assembly line, teering at the 33rd Okinawan Festival, Ippee Nifee Debiru! Inside This Issue Clear Skies •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 1 President’s Message •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 2

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage Paid Honolulu, HI No. 659 Permit Legacy Awards Banquet ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 3 Okinawan Festival Photos •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Pages 4-6 Festival Photo Contest Winners •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 7 Ikuyu Madin/Preserving Our Legacy/HUOA Donations •••••••••••••• Pages 8 & 9 Mensore ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 10 Mensore ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 11 Club News •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 12 Grant “Sandaa” Murata/Winter & Evening Craft Fair ••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 13 Grant Sato to Highlight Awamori Fest ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 14 WLFL Grantees Earn Konkuru/Uchinaaguchi/Okinawan Proverb ••• Page 15

HawaiiUnited Okinawa Association 94-587Ukee Street Waipahu,Hawaii 96797 HUOA Schedule of Events/HOT Schedule ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 16 2 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 3 congratulations to those of you in our performing arts community for your attaining Shinjinsho and Shihan in your particular art forms. Grant Sandaa President’s Message Murata Sensei of Afuso Ryu Choichi Kai was also bestowed this year with the By Mark Higa honor of being the first foreign judge for Ryukyu Shimpo’s Koten Sanshin Konkuru. Chibariyo to all our performers, and to the many individuals who have focused your studies on Okinawan culture through grants and scholarships. As you further and share your knowledge, the dedication you all have will continue to have a multi-fold effect on the many around you. In October, 46 participants of the HUOA Study Tour will join Governor Ige and over 25 Hawaii government and business representatives in Okinawa Sumiti - Making an Imprint for for the Hawaii-Okinawa Sister State 30th Anniversary Celebration in Okinawa. Okinawa has planned a celebration that will be similar to the festivities held Our Future Generations here in July, but will tie in with the always exhilarating Naha Matsuri! The Study Tour group is made up of first timers as well as many who have been to ai Sai Hawaii United Okinawa Association Members! Okinawa multiple times. Members are in store for a unique mix of sightseeing, H While many of us observed the close of the Bon Dance season, learning and unique cultural experiences. Not only will the tour focus on histo- friends and family in Okinawa also observed Higan, marking a turning of ry and traditions, but we will also observe ways in which Okinawa continues to the seasons at the autumn equinox for harvest, but also another time to pay participate at the highest levels of research and technology at the global stage! respects to our ancestors. As we always look to those who came before us with Both the Study Tour and Sister State Events represent a renewal of traditions great reverence, it’s wonderful to think of the important lessons many of them and a forging of new ideas and friendships. left with us and how we use these lessons to guide both what we do today and The spirit and energy of our members never wane! The examples above what we do in the future! Our events celebrating the Okinawan Culture this show something a little different for everyone. However, a common thread is autumn surely have strong imprints made by our kupuna and ancestors. As we the feeling of gratitude for what so many have provided us, and the fire we each echo these lessons, we also find what impressions our living culture can make have to continue to making imprints. Big or small, each will have a great effect moving forward. on more than just ourselves! Let’s continue to live these same lessons in HUOA What better example of the message we share with the rest of the com- and our Member Clubs: expressing thanks to our elders and senpai, and provid- munity than the Okinawan Festival. Version 33.0 had much build up from early ing every opportunity for our youth to engage, be inspired and enriched through spring. And, through this year’s extreme El Nino heat mixed with three of the programs, events and travel. largest hurricanes threats we have seen in a while, something or someone decid- ed to part the rain clouds to bring blue skies and breezes upon us for another weekend of celebration between our member clubs, visitors, performers from Okinawa and thousands of attendees. LOST AND FOUND AT We saw many new faces and an array of new exciting twists to this year’s Festival - Ippee Nifee Deebiru to our dedicated volunteers for constantly thinking OKINAWAN FESTIVAL of ideas to keep our festival fresh and operating smoothly. For all of you behind Did you lose your sunglasses, car keys, camera, two- the scenes, who are setting up early in the week, keeping everything running way mirror? Or, did you purchase Okinawan items at smoothly in our “back of the house” during the festival, and then coming back on Monday to pack up, the Festival is not possible without each and every one of Heiwa Dori and forget your package somewhere? Bon you. Thank you for your dedication and for continuing to bring new friends to Dance towels? Festival t-shirt? “feel good” about what we are doing to share our wonderful culture! We have a wide collection of items that were turned While Young Okinawans of Hawaii provided us a lesson and official close to Obon with Michijyune for Uukui (3rd Day of Okinawan Obon), the Autumn in by wonderful folks who found these and many other Dance Matsuri—the last of the season—was held at the Hawaii Okinawa Center items and turned them in to Lost and Found. on September 19. A tradition that originated to help with fundraising for our Please come to the Hawaii Okinawa Center to claim Legacy Banquet Seating Reservation Form geinou groups, the indoor bon dance draws dedicated fans from all over the island. Meanwhile, Maui Okinawa Kenjinkai gathered the Valley Isle crowds your precious belongings. Name: ______CompaNy/orgaNizatioN Name:______Office hours: M-F 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. for the Maui Okinawan Festival at Maui Mall for a celebration of food, dance, mailiNg address:______//______music and everything Okinawan! In every one of these examples, we find men- Phone: 676-5400. Street City Zip Code E-mail Address toring and teaching to our younger generations, and everyone inviting other phoNe No: ______Uchinanchu and Uchinanchu at heart to learn and grow. Day Evening Cell/Mobile Something new you may have noticed is a visible increase in corporate please reserve the followiNg: sponsorships from local businesses. Inspired by our membership’s volun- of (10) Seats #______@ = $ ______of (10) Seats #______@ $3,000 = $ ______teerism, individual contributions and dedication to our culture, these busi- Platinum Table $10,000 Silver Table • Premium Seating • Special Gift for guests • Premium Seating • Program Acknowledgement nesses are seeking ways to contribute as well. Mahalo to this year’s Odaiko • Complimentary Wine • Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Valet) • Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Self) Gold Sponsors: Central Pacific Bank, Wilson Okamoto Corporation and WCIT • Program Acknowledgement and other publicity with Company logo. of (10) seats #______@ $1,500 = $ ______Architecture. We also extend our gratitude to our Shimedaiko Silver Sponsors: (Includes a half page ad space in newsletter - UCHINANCHU nov/dec issue) Bronze Table • Preferred Seating • Program Acknowledgement Bank of Hawaii and RM Towill Corporation and our many other sponsors and of (10) Seats #______@$5,000 = $ ______contributors. Your commitment to aiding our organization will ensure our pro- Gold Table #______@ $125 = $ ______• Premium Seating • Special Favor for guests Individual Seating grams can be sustained for our members and warabi (children). • Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Self) $ ______We have been very fortunate to have witnessed inspirational performances • Program Acknowledgement and other publicity. (Includes a quarter ad I would like to make a donation of: from Okinawa during the festival and also the recent collaboration between space in newsletter - UCHINANCHU nov/dec issue) $ ______Naha Daiko and Chinagu Eisa Hawaii at the Kansha II performances! A big TOTAL Please list guests’ names below: I am interested in placing an ad in the Luncheon Program Booklet. Table Sponsor: ______I am interested in donating a Silent Auction item. Veg. Meal A member of our committee will be in contact with you. Please visit our website at SAVE THE DATE 1 • ______www.huoa.org for additional information on Advertising and Silent Auction donations. Installation Luncheon and UCHINANCHU 2 • ______A reservation/donation receipt will be mailed to you. Check-in will be at the Reception Table. 3 • ______Recognition of Uchinanchu of Uchinanchu is the newsletter of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association. Payment InformatIon Although subject to change, issues will be published bi-monthly. Volunteer 4 • ______Enclosed is my check made payable to the: writers are welcome. Send your name, address and telephone number to 5 • ______Hawaii United Okinawa Assn. (HUOA) for: $ ______the Year Honorees Uchinanchu Newsletter, Hawaii United Okinawa Association, 94-587 Ukee Mailing Address: 94-587 Ukee St. Waipahu, Hawaii 96797 Hawaii Okinawa Center St., Waipahu, Hawaii 96797. E-mail articles to [email protected]. Uchinanchu 6 • ______reserves the right to edit all material for clarity and accuracy. Saturday, January 16, 2016 7 • ______Charge Information - Please charge the costs above to: VISA MC Amex Discover HUOA President ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Mark Higa Card No: ______Exp Date: ______8 • ______Registration/Doors open: 9:30 a.m. Executive Director •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Jane F. Serikaku Name of Cardholder: ______Call to Celebration: 10:30 a.m. Editorial/Production Services ••••••••••••••• MBFT Media: Arnold Hiura, 9 • ______Signature: ______Eloise Hiura and Hilma Fujimoto Aloha Attire ADVERTISING INFORMATION 10 • ______Cost: $38.00 Uchinanchu reaches over 9,700 households. For advertising rates and The favor of a response is requested by October 20, 2015. For a vegetarian meal option check the box before name. If For tickets, call your club president or HUOA at 676-5400 or more information, contact us at: For additional information, please contact (808) 676-5400 or [email protected] there are any dietary requests, please contact our office before The Hawaii United Okinawa Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. A portion of your ticket/table cost is email: [email protected] Tel: (808) 676-5400 – Email: [email protected] – www.huoa.org October 20, 2015. tax deductible as a charitable contribution. 4 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 5 Festival Unsung Heroes: Arakaki Festival Booth Decorating Ohana Reefer Crew Contest Winners: Mahalo to the Arakaki Ohana Reefer Crew for 29 years of service at our Non-Food Tents: Capital Campaign Okinawan Festival. This lengthy commitment began back in the third year of the (with Mark Higa – Shari Tamashiro) Okinawan Festival, when Billy Tokuda asked Richard Arakaki to help with the Festooned with teru teru dolls and cranes – Capital came in first with Heiwa Dori and reefer duties. The next year, Richard began chairing the “Reefer” crew with the Cultural Tent a very close second. support of the Arakaki, Lau, Nakahodo and Nagamine families, who faithfully Food Booth: Andagi supported their Uncle Richard. Thus the Arakaki Ohana Reefer crew began, stacking the refrigerated goods on Friday and issuing the necessary ingredients (with Mark Higa – Kent Billings and Mavis Gushiken) requested by the many booth chairs in charge of making the ono pigs feet soup, Booth was artistically designed with fresh flowers and images of the SHISAA yaki soba, andadog, andagi, Okinawa soba, yakitori and more on Saturday and Sunday. Each year, Richard’s niece Lori Lau prints t-shirts for the entire reefer crew. If you saw Richard’s t-shirt you would know exactly who the “Boss of the Reefer” is. Richard feels honored that he is called on each year to contribute his services to HUOA with the help of his circle of families, and HUOA is very appreciative of the tremendous help that they provide. Clockwise, from bottom left: Richard Arakaki, Liz Arakaki, Patricia Lau, Mark Arakaki, John Arakaki, Michael Arakaki, Len Oyama, Jase Arakaki, Edward Nagamine, and Franklin Arakaki. There are many other family members not pictured that have helped Richard over the years. Not pictured are: Douglas Arakaki, Ardis Arakaki, Lauren Arakaki, Gay Arakaki, Wesley Nakahodo, Gina Nakahodo, Gary Hasegawa, Claire Hasegawa, Joseph Lau, Jr., Lori Lau, Myra Nagamine, and Lillian Masaki. Kobudo Taiko Meets Gosamaru Leader Troy Sakihara and Big Island’s Hui Okinawa Kobudo Taiko group take a photo op with Nakagusuku mascot, “Gosamaru.” (L-R): Jack Musick, Cody Yamaguchi, Lee Watanabe, Troy Sakihara, Liberty Vilches, Glenn Shiigi, Krystle Koshiyama, Kathy Pung, and Jane Yanabu. HOT Video Crew Cherry Blossom Festival Court Mahalo to our dedicated hard working Hawaii Okinawa Today (HOT TV) crew who spent hours in Visits Okinawan Festival the very hot sun attempting to capture the spirit of Mahalo to Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce Uchinanchu through all the fantastic performances (HJJCC) advisor George Takase for engaging our lovely Cherry on stage. Captain Steve Arashiro reported that Blossom Queen and her court to grace our stage at the Opening approximately 24 volunteers are needed each Ceremonies, learn how to drop our famous andagi, and help with day. We are able to enjoy their labor of love on the Children’s Games. Olelo Community Chanel NATV 53 every Saturday Mahalo also to Gina Maeda-Caluya, HJJCC’s VP of Community at 7 p.m. and Thursday at 5 p.m. (Missing from Development, who coordinated the Saturday Hospitality Tent photo: Ron Miyashiro) along with HJJCC volunteers. Bon Dance Guests Surprise Bon Dancers at Okinawan Festival included U.S. Congressman Mark Takai, Consul General Yasushi Misawa and Mrs. Yoko Misawa.

Left to Right: Queen Kimberly Takata, 1st Princess/Miss Congeniality Rosalei Chinen, Princess Celina Quach, Princess Jessica Kaneshiro, Miss Popularity Heather Miura

Left to Right: Miss Popularity Heather Miura, 1st Princess/Miss Congeniality Rosalei Chinen, Princess Celina Quach, Queen Kimberly Takata, Princess Jessica Kaneshiro 6 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 7 2015 Okinawan Festival Photo Contest Winners

Ohana Winner Grand Prize Photographer: Tracie Akiyama Tonouchi Photographer: Title: Help Sister Smile Karli Ann Lum Title: Practice makes Perfect Description: Senjukai Hawaii performers practice backstage before performing. Photo by Chad Gibo

Culture Winner Photographer: Stan Sakai Title: Nakagusuku Gosamaru Dancer Description: One of the talented Nakagusuku Gosamaru Drum dancers from Okinawa who performed on Sunday. 8 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 9 Bridging from Generation to Generation - For Our Children! Preserving Our Legacy2014 to 2015–Annual Giving Program The Hawaii United Okinawa Association is extremely grateful to the over 740 friends that have responded with a generous gift to our current Campaign. We look forward to hearing from many more of you in the coming months. These tax-deductible donations allow us to continue to educate and share our Okinawan culture with the people of Hawaii, creating our “imprint” to Hawaii’s community. As of September 15, 2015 we collected $101,357. Ippee Nifee Deebiru! A Capital Campaign of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association Our list of donors reflects contributions from August 1, 2015 to September 15, 2015.

CONTRIBUTOR ($100 TO $249) Michael Koei Miyashiro UCHINANCHU Sakae Nakata Ippee Nifee Deebiru... Mahalo! Dick S. Tawata Uchinanchu is our voice — the voice of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association, Ikuyu Madin its members, and the “home” we all built together, the Hawaii Okinawa Center. By In Memory of Nobuo Takeno by June Takeno and Family sharing information and experiences, Uchinanchu keeps us connected as a family, FRIEND (DONATIONS UP TO $99) dedicated to preserving, sharing and perpetuating our Okinawan cultural heritage. Our Supporters Marjorie Okuhara Every dollar donated — along with the valuable income from advertising - helps Ikuyu Madin Kai Members Of The 200 For 2M Campaign Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Uyezu offset the cost of publishing Uchinanchu. HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru (Listed Members have either donated or pledged $10,000 or more to our current campaign starting July 1, 2014.) to the following donors. Mahalo for keeping Uchinanchu alive and thriving. Aloha Tofu Inc., Paul Uyehara Jocelyn Ige Norman & Renette Nakasone Uchinanchu Newsletter Donors August 1 to September 15, 2015. Nancy Akamine Arizumi, Claire Ralph & Jean Ige Yoshimori Oshiro Satoshi & Dina Ajifu Gilbert Nakasone Matsumoto, Wilma Ogimi Richard Iha, Jr. Yasuo and Chiyo Sadoyama James Akamine R. K. Shimabukuro Arashiro Ohana Yuriko Inamine The Family of Akira & Jane Hatsue Asato Frances Shimazu George Bartels, Jr. & Doreen Jon Itomura Sakima HUOA DONATIONS Roy C. Ashitomi Rachel Shiroma Bartels Jane Serikaku Arthur Kaneshiro August 1 to September 15, 2015 Kimiko Y. Ishiki Nancy Sogawa Dr. Glenn M. & Lucille K. The Family of Richard and Chris & Shiori Shimabukuro Mildred Kataoka Walter & Yoshie Taira Biven HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru to the Kiyoko Kuba - Lui, Chung, Herbert & Lillian Shimabukuro Robert Kinjo Masao Takara Ford & Daneil Chinen Morikami, Kuba-Hori following donors: Cyrus & Ann Tamashiro IMO of Patsy Yonamine & In William M. Teruya Dr. Doris Ching Mavis Masaki George & Emeline Tamashiro James K. & Chun Tsu Akamine HUOA VIDEO Honor of Mac Yonamine by Sally Tokunaga Alton Chung Dwight T. Matsuda Charles T. Toguchi Jane M. Nakasone Seizen and Helen Maeshiro Mayor Keisuke Hamada-Nakagusuku Jo Ann O. Tome Furugen Family Ltd. Robert T. Matsuda Linda Torigoe Village Office June Tamashiro Betty Matsumura Partnership Adele I. Tsukamoto Sally & Hisashi Matsumoto Darryl Uezu Jeanette Higa OKINAWAN FESTIVAL Lillian Nakagawa Ginowan Club Guy Miyashiro Maurice & Jean Yamasato Stella & Kenny Shimabukuro Tommy & Arlene Yonamine Christine & Stanley Higa DONATION Lawrence & Alice Morisako Kenneth & Helen Yanamura Helen Yanamura Mayor Keisuke Hamada- Laverne Higa Mark Mugiishi Bob Yonahara HUOA CORPORATE SPONSOR Nakagusuku Village Office Mark & Hanae Higa Carol & Jackson Nakasone Harold & Elsie Yonamine SILVER Dr. Kyoko Hijirida Mitsuko Toguchi Nakasone R. M. Towill Corp. Feel Better! Dr. Higa’s Original™ Pro Em•1® The Hawaii United Okinawa Association would like to acknowledge the following individuals, families, organizations and companies Daily Probiotic Cleanse who have donated or pledged to our Campaign. Since our last report, we received a special gift from the Kaneshiro Family in honor of Sanri Lift Installed at Higa Building PROVIDES A BROAD SPECTRUM OF BENEFICIAL MICROBES and Ushi Kaneshiro and 500,000¥ from the Okinawan Prefectural Assembly. A special mahalo to those who visited us at our Capital Tent at ur generous donor, Mac Yonamine, was the first person to ride up and down TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIGESTIVE SYSTEM the Okinawan Festival. Oon the lift that he gifted to the HUOA. Mac’s lift will make it easier for many ® Our 200 FOR 2M CAMPAIGN continues to grow, we would like to welcome Lawrence and Alice Morisako and Mitsuko Toguchi folks—challenged by bad knees or other reasons—to get to the second floor of the Higa PRO EM•1 Nakasone to our 46-member family. The HUOA is truly grateful for your support and the confidence you have displayed through your generous Building. We wish to extend a very special ippee nifee deebiru and mahalo to Mac! • Supports a healthy regular digestive system donations and humbly ask for your continued support. Magukuru Kara Ippee Nifee Deebiru – from our hearts, thank you very much. • Supports weight loss Donations listed below were received from August 1, 2015 to September 15, 2015. • Improves absorption of food nutrients Anonymous In Memory of Warren T. Higa by Clyde & Drezleen Oshiro A raw, fermented cleanse. Aloha Tofu Inc. (2) Kitanakagusuku Sonjin Kai Myra Oshiro All-natural certified organic ingredients. Arashiro Ohana In Memory of Robert Miyahira by Hui O Rosemary Shinsato Wheat, Soy, and Dairy Free. Gale Kuba Laulima Natsuko Kaneshiro Tamashiro Customers reported great results Thomas & Miyoko Hata In Memory of Harry Seisho Nakasone by Yukio & Sadako Tokuda with constipation, IBS, Diverticulitis Mitsuko Toguchi Nakasone Tomiko Komoto & Takeko Fontenot Tom & Lynne Yamamoto Crohn’s Disease, yeast infections, In Memory of Mrs. Norma Miyoko Tamashiro Lawrence & Alice Morisako Helen Yamamoto and Lyme Disease by Kitanakagusuku Sonjin Kai Mildred Sachiko Nakama Lee & Lisa Yamamoto In Honor of Sanra & Ushi Kaneshiro: Carol & Jackson Nakasone Call Hiro & Brian Alos 2015 Okinawan Festival: Okinawa Prefectural Assembly Colin Alos Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. Anonymous Chikako Nago Mr. & Mrs. Mitsuo Oshiro Shirley Alos Lani Tamanaha Broadbent Mark & Frances Perkins 808-548-0396 Donald & Carol Esperitu Lillian Y. Gima Takeo & Betty Y. Shimabukuro Keith Fukuhara Nora Goya 560 N Nimitz Hwy Ste. 217A Tatsumi Yamashiro John & Jane Fukuhara Jayne Harada www.emhawaii.com The Benevity Community Impact Fund Cathy Iha Ken Kato matching for Jason Tokuda Directions - For Daily Maintenance: Helen Kaneshiro Karen K. Kosasa Adult take 1 teaspoon 3 times per day with The U.S. Charitable Gift Trust on behalf of the Yoshimori Oshiro Private Foundation Jerry & Sharon Kaneshiro Debra Kay McKee meals. Drink with cup of water or juice. In Memory of Shingo & Ushi Higa and Sandra Kaneshiro Takafumi Okonogi *This product has not been reviewed by the FDA and Warren & Lou-Ellen Kaneshiro Robert Uehara is not intended to treat or cure any health condition. Charles M. & Florence C. Miyashiro by Please consult a health care professional before using. Stanley & Christine Higa Tammy Namihira Shigehiko Shiramizu The user takes full responsibility for taking this product. June Newmann 10 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 11 Mensore continued from Page 10 Mensorewelcome!

OTS-VIP Group Seven former HUOA Presidents gathered to greet the OTS-VIP group led by Mr. Ichiro Oyadomari, CEO of Japan Transocean Air Co., Ltd. We were also honored to reacquaint ourselves with Ms. Hiroko Sho who was the first female Vice Governor of Okinawa. ‘Pigs from the Sea’ Team Producer Yoshimitsu Hamabata of the fantastic musical drama production of “Pigs from the Sea” was on a mission to interview and talk story with people who experienced or have recollections of their parents' experiences of Hawaii Uchinanchu's effort to help Okinawa recover from the devastation due to the war. Mahalo to all of you who took the time to meet with the team before the festival and during the festival. They were extremely appreciative of everyone's willingness to share their stories.

Aloha Kumejima Kumejima Mayor Haruo Ota and his wife Hiromi along with 13 other special folks enjoyed a fantastic potluck luncheon with Hawaii’s Kumejima- connected people—including some former HUOA presidents and HUOA executive council members—after their OTEC conference in Kona. Mayor Ota encourages all Hawaii Uchinanchu to visit their beautiful island of Kumejima.

Kinryoen Group It was a pleasure to be in the midst of presidents and managing directors from hotels and companies in Yaeyama, Ishigaki and the main island of Okinawa, Pigs From The Sea Team: Chisako Oshiro, translator; Keifuku including President Takashi Fukuoka of Kinki Nippon Tourist Okinawa, Inc. Jyanamoto, researcher and playwrite; and Yoshimitsu Hamabata, producer.

Miyakojima Students Okinawa Yuibuyo Miyakojima students enjoyed several days exploring Oahu President Kiyoshi Miyagi is surrounded by his Okinawa Yuibuyo Suishin Kyogikai who performed their modern Okinawan “line dancing” and engaged before heading for Maui where Maui Okinawa Kenjin everyone to join in. Yaese Students Welcome to 12 enthusiastic students from Yaese Town! Kai members provided homestay experiences and other Mensore continued on Page 11 exciting events and study sessions. 12 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 13 Congratulations Sandaa Sensei Uchinanchu 2015 is Coming! hat an honor! Hawaii’s own received their teaching certification. He WGrant “Sandaa” Murata Sensei humbly extends his appreciation and was selected to be one of the esteemed heartfelt gratitude to all his students n 2013, HUOA launched the inaugural edition of the judges for this year’s Ryukyu perform- and supporters who believed in him and Iannual Uchinanchu magazine, a compilation of the very ing arts Konku-ru, a sanshin proficiency supported him and his family through- best, full-color images from the entire year’s activities. It Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai test which is sponsored annually by out the years. became an instant hit. Okinawa’s Ryukyu Shimpo newspaper. There’s a touching story, “Confessions of Cleans Up This year marks the 50th anniversary a Sanshin Sensei,” in the August 21 issue ppee nifee deebiru to the faithful members of Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai who of the proficiency test in the Afuso style of the Hawaii Herald about a young yon- Iarrived at the HOC at 7 a.m. to scrub all the woks, cure them, and get them ready of uta/sanshin and this is the first time sei who learned uta/sanshin from Henry for festival andagi, andadog, champuru cooking. that anyone from outside of Okinawa Masatada Higa Sensei. Learning uta/ has been invited to be a judge. We are all sanshin in the midst of Issei and some proud of Sandaa sensei paving the way Nisei students, Sandaa Sensei began his for other possible “foreigners” to receive quest to learn Japanese and Uchinaaguchi. such a distinguished honor, and elated It’s amazing how freely he can converse and proudest is Sandaa sensei’s Master with visitors from Okinawa… all in Sensei Choichi Terukina who himself Uchinaaguchi. was designated as a National Living HUOA extends its sincerest congratula- Treasure of Japan. tions to Grant “Sandaa” Murata sensei Sandaa sensei has taught uta/sanshin and ippee nifee deebiru for always being will- for many years and is extremely proud ing to support our programs and events of his 20+ students who have passed the Grant “Sandaa” Sensei with his Master Sensei Choichi Terukina of Okinawa. by engaging your students to perform or This yearly album captures the spirit and energy of our Konku-ru test and six who have already do jikata for our dance performances. HUOA members, from installation of officers andUchinanchu of the Year celebrations, through shinnen enkai parties,

community outreach projects, craft fairs, Okinawan Festival, Front Row (L-R): Gaye Oshiro, Joel Itomura, Darlene Itomura, Allison Yanagi, Gary Jitchaku, Donne sports, recitals, concerts and club picnics, just to name a few Soga, and Cindy Asato. Second Row (L-R): Jenny Matsumura, Sandy Yanagi, JoAnn Takamiyashiro, Dwight Ikehara, Laura Ajimine, Sharon Vidal, Aaron Uyema, Cindy Kikuyama, Susan Kikuyama, highlights. This beautifully produced memory book will make and Jon Itomura. Not pictured, but working side by side with Chatan-Kadena members, were HUOA a great keepsake or gift. President Mark Higa and President-elect Tom Yamamoto. Uchinanchu 2015 is coming soon. Cost is $10 an issue. Clubs should inquire about discounts for orders of 25 or more. Clubs Okinawa City-Goeku Son and companies can also show their support by placing a full- color ad in Uchinanchu 2015. Proceeds benefit the HUOA. Clean-up Crew ardworking Goekuans take a short break from cleaning the Hawaii Okinawa For information, contact Jane Serikaku at jserikaku@ HCenter on August 8, 2015, in order to get this photo taken. Pictured are hawaii.rr.com or call 676-5400. Okinawa City-Goeku Son members: Front Row (L-R): Gwen Fukuhara, Marissa Fukuhara, Christine Talkington Chung, Judith Morikami, Karen Kuba-Hori, Mae Chung, Copeland Talkington, Janise Oshiro, and Chloe Mae Talkington. Back Row (L-R): Craig Fukuhara, Carole Arakaki, Yvonne Lui, and Thomas Talkington. 14 Uchinanchu September/October 2015 September/October 2015 Uchinanchu 15 Chef Grant Sato to Highlight Omedetoo gozaimasu! Eric Kobayashi and Naomi Oshiro th wonderful accomplishment! The HUOA heartily congratulates 2015 with 14 Annual Awamori Fest Join us at the A Love from Lorraine awardees, Eric Kobayashi (buyo) and Naomi Oshiro By Jodie Ching (music). Eric and Naomi traveled to Okinawa and competed in the Ryukyu Shimpo n Thursday, December 3, Tamagusuku Ryu Senju Kai Frances Nakachi Ryubu Newspaper Company’s Performing Arts Konkuuru and successfully attained their ODojo will present its 14th Annual Awamori Fest, at one of Honolulu’s popular Yuushuushoo and Shinjinshoo, respectively. gathering places, the Pagoda Restaurant in the International Room from 6 p.m. to Three years ago, Eric competed Awamori Fest! in the konkuru and received the 9 p.m. This fundraiser is a great opportunity to enjoy awamori, soju, sake, and wine, Thursday, December 3, 2015 while experiencing great cultural music and dance. Funds from this event will help Shinjinsho Award. With his dili- 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. gent study and instructor Frances Nakachi Sensei’s intense training, Pagoda Restaurant, International Room Eric journeyed once again to further his study under the founding 1525 Rycroft Street Masters of the Tamagusuku Ryu Senju Kai, Yoshiko Tanita Sensei and Mieko Kinjo Sensei, who are also Frances Sensei’s instruc- tors. There is a noticeable differ- ence in the intensity and diffi- culty between the shinjinshoo level and the required dances at the Yuushuushoo level. Naomi had been exposed to the Okinawan culture from a young age. However, with a personal goal to attend the next Worldwide •Great cultural experience with live Okinawan Music Uchinanchu Festival (Taikai) in students further their training by providing scholarships for travel to Okinawa and 2016, Naomi began to study about to train and participate in certification exams, as well as sharing the culture abroad. and Dance • Enjoy Awamori, Soju, Wine and Sake Okinawa by reading books, tak- Also, funds will help with the purchase of costumes and props and other costs •Invite your friends and family tocelebrate the holidays ing Okinawan language classes, related to performance and education. and learning to play the sanshin. The highlight this year will Naomi became an avid member of be Chef Grant Sato’s cooking the Afuso Ryu Gensei Kai Hawaii demonstration and signing of Shibu and continued her dili- Naomi Oshiro in front of the Ryuku Shimpo building. his book, An Okinawan Kitchen. gent study under Grant “Sandaa” continued success in all of their future endeavors and applaud their respective His devotion to his grand- Eric Kobayashi in performance of female classical dance, Murata Sensei. Her horizons “Nufwabushi.” Sensei for their efforts to preserve, perpetuate and promote the Okinawan culture mother, Jeanette Akamine, who expanded even more and ultimate- especially in Hawaii. taught and inspired him to cre- Okagesamade, because of you, Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai Frances ly led to training for the konkuru competition this summer. Naomi successfully ate Okinawan cuisine, was the Nakachi Ryubu Dojo is able to share our rich Okinawan culture here attaining the Shinjinsho (Newcomer’s Award). seed that eventually grew into The HUOA extends its best wishes for both Eric Kobayashi and Naomi Oshiro’s a book of traditional and con- in Hawaii for over 18 years. The proceeds from the event will help temporary food, art and cul- fund our recitals, purchase costumes and most of all, to provide Nakagusuku Gosamaru Daiko ture. Awamori Fest is the per- scholarships to students who are interested in furthering their skills Forty-two Nakagusuku Gosamaru Daiko drummers along with Shishimai and mas- fect opportunity to pick up this 2015 Calendar of Events cot Gosamaru added excitement to our Okinawan Festival! unique holiday gift personalized by taking the certification test in Okinawa. by Chef Sato himself. The year at a glance! Awamori Fest will feature a Thank you for taking the time during this busy holiday season to join us! silent auction, games, entertain- Please RSVP by Friday, November 20, 2015 Oct. 7-9 Hawaii-Okinawa Sister State 30th Anniversary ment, good food with friends Celebration in Okinawa Name: Contact info: and family while supporting Oct. 7-18 HUOA Study Tour to Okinawa with President the perpetuation of our beauti- Ticket Order: No of tickets x $60 = Mark Higa ful Okinawan culture through dance. Tamagusuku Ryu Senju (No refunds for no-shows or cancellation. All tickets held at Nov. 1 Legacy Awards Banquet – Sheraton Waikiki Hotel Kai Hawaii counts on Awamori Will Call with payment.) *We will confirm by contact info provided. Nov. 28, 29 Winter Craft Fair – HOC Fest as a major fundraiser to con- Make check payable to: Senjukai Hawaii Mail to: Senjukai Hawaii, Dec. 9 “Evening In Waipio” Craft Fair – HOC tinue to share their dance with various communities at home in Hawaii and abroad. P.O. Box 10446, Honolulu, HI. 96816. Email: [email protected] This year, two members were able to attain certifications in Okinawa: Ainoa Miyashiro For more info call Senjukai Hawaii at 808-754-8828 Jan. 16 HUOA Installation Banquet & Recognition of received his Shinjinsho (Newcomer's certification) and Eric Kobayashi receive his Uchinanchu of the Year Honorees Yuushuusho (Certificate of Excellence). Please come and enjoy a holiday celebration with Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai Check HUOA website – www.huoa.org for more information. Hawaii Frances Nakachi Ryubu Dojo! Ryukyu Soul Project Go Nakasone, lead singer Yoko Hizuki, and Yuko Deguchi (missing: Mark Reki Sekitani and Naoe Ritchie Sutta) Uchinaa-guchi (Okinawan language) Okinawan Proverb Selected by the Uchinaaguchi Class Members with Word of the Month Hijirida Sensei September Proverb of the month: tuku1, n. [toku] Goodness; moral excellence; Warabi ya naraashimun virtue; a good quality; grace. わらびやならーしむん October Meaning: achi-kookoo, adv. Piping hot; steaming hot; Children do as they are taught, so teach them well. steaming. See also hijuruukoo-koo. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Children are our future. Teach them well so that they (Excerpted, with permission, from the Okinawan-English Wordbook, by Mitsugu Sakihara, edited by Stewart Curry, University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, 2006) will also maintain the right path for the generations that follow. October 2015 10 Okinawan Festival Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC In 2015 our shows premiere on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and repeat the follow- 12 Administration Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC ing Thursday at 5 p.m. every week on Olelo Community Media Channel Executive Council meeting, 8pm, HOC NATV 53. All Olelo shows are also streamed live on the Internet at www. 24 Okinawan Festival Food & General Committee meeting, 7pm olelo.org. Some of our latest shows are available on-demand on the same website at: What’s On; OleloNet Video On Demand; then search for key- November 2015 word - Okinawa. 1 Legacy Awards Luncheon; Sheraton Waikiki NOTE that in 2016 our shows will return to premiering only twice a month. 11 Administration Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC Details to follow. Executive Council meeting, 8pm, HOC 25 Board of Directors meeting, 7pm, HOC Nov 7, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 12, Thurs., 5 pm - Beiju and Kajimaya birthday 26 THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY-HOC Office Closed celebrations by the Okinawa Nenchosa Club on August 14, 2014. 27 Winter Craft Fair Set-up Nov 14, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 19, Thurs., 5 pm - Part One of “Drums of Hope” 28-29 Winter Craft Fair; Sat 9am-3pm &Sun 9am-2pm, HOC connecting Hawaii, Okinawa and Fukushima – all people of the sea. A production directed by Daiichi Hirata and performed at the Hawaii Okinawa December 2015 Center on July 12, 2015. 8 Evening Craft Set-up Nov 21, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 26, Thurs., 5 pm - Hawaii Okinawa Today 9 Evening Craft Fair; 5:30-9pm, HOC “Thanksgiving Special” highlighting the volunteers of the Hawaii United 14 Administration Committee meeting, HOC, 7pm Okinawa Association. Executive Council meeting, HOC, 8pm Nov 28, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 3, Thurs., 5 pm - Highlights of the 1983 Okinawan 25 CHRISTMAS DAY-HOC Office Closed Festival at McCoy Pavilion, Ala Moana Beach Park.

Classes • Other Meetings at Hawaii Okinawa Center: Dec 5, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 10, Thurs., 5 pm - Part Two of “Drums of Hope” HUOA Sanshin: every Thursday, 7pm* connecting Hawaii, Okinawa and Fukushima – all people of the sea. A Ichigo Ichi E: 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 7pm* production directed by Daiichi Hirata and performed at the Hawaii Okinawa Ikebana: 3rd Wednesday, 7pm* Center on July 12, 2015. Karaoke nite: 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm* Dec 12, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 17, Thurs., 5 pm - Part Two of Sadao China Anniversary Kobudo Taiko: every Monday, 7pm, contact Calvin Nakama 224-7374 Recital on March 29, 2015 in Okinawa. Monday Crafters: every Monday, 9am* Dec 19, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 24, Thurs., 5 pm - 80th Anniversary and History of Okinawan Genealogical Society mtg: 3rd Saturday, 9am* the Rinzai Zen Mission on Maui. Uchinaaguchi: every 2nd Tuesday, 1pm*; every 4th Thursday, 7pm* Dec 26, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 31, Thurs., 5 pm - Highlights of the 1984 Okinawan *for more information, please call 676-5400 Festival at McCoy Pavilion, Ala Moana Beach Park. **Subject to Change** (entries as of 9/10/15)

As the exclusive caterers to the Legacy Ballroom at the Hawaii Okinawa Center, we enhance the beauty of the venue with a colorful menu for your guests to enjoy.

Choose from an assortment of menus that can be customized to ﬁt your needs and budget. Popular Hawaiian & Local Style menus • Prime Rib Buﬀets Create your own menu for any occasion! • Party Platters for pick-up • Onsite deliveries Discounts available for HUOA Club Members. Call 677-7744 or visit www.acateredexperience.com for menus and more information.