PAGE 6 Ben Kurokiʼs lucky ears.

Love and liberty in the Aloha State. PAGE 3 PAGE 4 Robert Isoʼs Gold Medal.

ʻGuitar Heroʼ legend Annie Leung. PAGE 9 PHOTO: VALERIE SMITH DAY OF REMEMBRANCE PAGE 7 # 3161 VOL. 152, NO. 3 ISSN: 0030-8579 WWW.PACIFICCITIZEN.ORG FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 2 Feb. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 LETTERS/NATIONAL PACIFIC CITIZEN

how to reach us letters to the editor E-mail: [email protected] Online: www.pacificcitizen.org the votes of a lot of Democrats, name of JACL will not resolve Tel: (213) 620-1767 Remembering JACL’s Non-partisan Mission Fax: (213) 620-1768 but also Republicans such as Dick the problem of our decreasing Mail: 250 E. First Street, Suite 301 Over the last year, the JACL has issued a series of press releases Cheney, Bob Dole, Newt Gingrich, membership; in fact, I fear that Los Angeles, CA 90012 that have explicitly criticized various Republican, conservative or Pat Saiki and others. Without the a name change may cause our Staff Libertarian figures while ignoring racist, provocative or inappropriate support of President Reagan and organization built upon “security Executive Editor comments from the likes of Harry Reid, D-NV, Chris Matthews, Keith Vice President Bush, this legislation through unity” to segue into Caroline Y. Aoyagi-Stom Olbermann and Alan Grayson, D-FL. may well have languished. an organization of “competing Assistant Editor Lynda Lin The organization endorsed the October March on Washington (One This token statement of interests.” Nation Working Together), sponsored by left-wing labor unions, recognition and gratitude for I thank my good friend Horse Reporter Nalea J. Ko Democratic Socialists of America, Communist Party USA, and Ronald Reagan’s efforts would Yoshinaga for his negative Business Manager ideologues such as Ed Schultz and Al Sharpton. go a long way to tempering the comments in the Rafu Shimpo last Staci Hisayasu The JACL endorsed the Democratic Congress’ health reform bill inordinately one-sided public year that raised the consciousness Circulation with commentary that mirrored White House talking points, despite statements of the past two years. of many members regarding this Eva Lau-Ting

the apparent lack of debate or analysis within the organization as to the name change issue. “Wake Up Advertising Representative “civil rights” nature or community impact of the legislation. Could it James Kumpel JACLers” — you need to know Brad Kiyomura be that Asian Americans, whose average incomes exceed the national New York JACL what is happening in our JACL The Pacific Citizennewspaper average, will be disproportionately impacted by wealth transfers to (ISSN: 0030-8579) is published organization.” semi-monthly (except once in De- others in order to achieve a long-standing Democratic Party policy cember and January) by the Japa- objective? * * * Helen Kawagoe nese American Citizens League, During this time of languishing membership, it may be reasonable Former Nat’l JACL President Pacific Citizen, to evaluate whether or not conservative, Libertarian or even moderate 250 E. 1st Street, Suite 301, Los Keep JACL Carson City Clerk Angeles, CA 90012 Japanese Americans feel marginalized or unwanted due to the clear Periodical postage paid at L.A., CA ideological expressions of the JACL on various issues tangential to the I write to join the opinions POSTMASTER: send address organization’s mission. changes to National JACL, 1765 expressed by Ken Yamamoto write to us Sutter St., San Francisco, CA 94115 In that spirit, I would ask that the JACL celebrate the centennial of Silicon Valley JACL, Edwin of Ronald Reagan’s birth this year. He was born into a poor family, Send signed letters with your JACL President: David Kawamoto Mitoma of South Bay JACL and T. name and contact National Director: Floyd Mori led the Screen Actors Guild for many years, restored national pride Ted Yoneda of Stockton, California information to: P.C. editorial board as president, strengthened alliances, secured bipartisan legislation — whose letters were published in [email protected] Judith Aono, chairperson; Paul to strengthen Social Security, won the Cold War, and unleashed the the Feb. 4-17 issue of the Pacific or Niwa, EDC; Kevin Miyazaki, MDC; Bobbi Hanada, CCDC; vacant, NC- longest peacetime economic expansion in U.S. history. Citizen. Letters WNPDC; Hugh Burleson, PNWDC; Of course, in 1988, President Reagan listened to the advice of Vice They want to KEEP JACL Pacific Citizen Jeff Itami, IDC; Cindi Harbottle, President George H. W. Bush and signed into law the Redress bill that and oppose any name change 250 E. First St. PSWDC; Sonya Kuki, Youth apologized to JAs for the forced incarceration imposed by Franklin previously suggested by National Suite # 301 subscribe Los Angeles, CA, 90012 Get a one-year subscription of the Delano Roosevelt during World War II. The legislation passed with Director Floyd Mori. Changing the Pacific Citizen newspaper at: www.pacificcitizen.org or call (800) 966-6157 Advertise photo: nalea j. ko Little Tokyo Street Named After Toyo To advertise in the Pacific Citizen, call (800) 966-6157 or e-mail: Toyo Miyatake, a Japanese American photographer, had a street in Los [email protected] Angeles, Calif. named in his honor. A group of about 50 gathered on Feb. LEGAL 10 at Toyo Miyatake Way located at Sakura Crossing, a luxury apartment No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express per- complex in Little Tokyo. mission of the Pacific Citizen. During World War II, Miyatake was interned in Manzanar. Smuggling Editorials, news and the opinions ex- a camera lens into camp, he constructed a makeshift camera and docu- pressed by columnists other than the national JACL president or national di- mented the experiences of Japanese American detainees. rector do not necessarily reflect JACL A bronze relief of Miyatake was installed at Sakura Crossing nearby a policy. Events and products advertised sign bearing his name. in the Pacific Citizen do not carry the implicit endorsement of the JACL or this publication. We reserve the right to edit articles. © 2011 Periodicals paid at Los Angeles, Reverse Mortgage Calif and mailing office. Call for a free information package JACL MEMBERS Change of If you are 62 or older and own your house, Address a Reverse Mortgage may benefit you! If you’ve moved, • Turn Home Equity into Tax Free Cash please send new • You keep title to your home information to: • No Monthly Mortgage Payments National JACL • FHA Program Designed for Seniors 1765 Sutter St. “I pledge to provide excellent customer service San Francisco, CA with the highest standard of ethics” 94115 25+ Years Experience as a Financial Professional Allow 6 weeks for David C. Miyagawa Chee address changes. Certified Public Accountant 1-800-967-3575 CA Dept. of Real Estate – Real Estate Broker #01391106 To avoid interrup- NMLS ID 263222 tions in delivery, please notify your postmaster to Please support our advertisers! include periodicals in your change of Contact our Advertising Department address (USPS at 800/966-6157 Form 3575) PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL NEWS FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 3 Hawaii Civil Unions Passes in Senate, Moves to Governor

photo courtesy of gary okabayashi photo courtesy of pride alliance hawaii/van law

Gary Okabayashi and Lenny Zimmerman (pictured left), both JACL members, have been active participants in advocating for the passage of civil unions legislation in Hawaii.

Proponents of the civil unions bill (pictured above) like those with Pride Alliance Hawaii took to the streets to voice their support.

The passage of a same-sex civil unions bill in Zimmerman, who is Okabayashi’s partner. “We thought she another and the elimination of discrimination, regardless of the Senate, supporters say, is a step toward a was a person of fairness and then at the last minute, after gender or sexual orientation,” Oshiro explained. more equal Hawaii. sort of hinting that she might actually let the bill become law Others echo Oshiro’s sentiments. without her signature, she vetoes it.” “By not passing the civil unions bill, lawmakers are By Nalea J. Ko Many civil unions supporters are confident that this year dividing Hawaii,” said Jade Le, with the management Reporter the civil unions bill, SB 232, will become law with a new of eXpression! Magazine, an LGBT publication. “As a governor now in office. Gov. Neil Abercrombie, who took community that is divided, why would we work together to Hawaii civil union supporters are optimistic that a bill office in December, has said he will sign a civil unions bill enhance everyone else’s lives while our own basic rights are providing many marriage rights to same sex couples will be into law within 10 days. The law would take effect in 2012. not being met?” signed into law by the governor. “We have been working with the governor’s policy team and This is not the first time Hawaii has contemplated With a 18-5 vote, the Senate approved the civil unions bill have considered amendments recommended by the attorney expanding the rights of same-sex couples. Feb. 16. general,” said Rep. Blake Oshiro. “So I am optimistic that Hawaii Supreme Court questioned the constitutionality The Senate was expected to consider the civil unions bill if the bill passes the Legislature, Gov. Abercrombie will sign of preventing same-sex marriage in 1993. The Defense of Feb. 15, but Sen. Clayton Hee proposed delaying a decision it into law, marking another important day in our history and Marriage Act, which defined marriage as a union between a because of procedural concerns. advancement to an equal society.” man and woman, was enacted three years later. Many civil unions supporters hailed the passage of the bill The passage of the civil unions bill would make Hawaii Legalizing same-sex marriage in the Aloha State is in the state Senate as a step toward equality. the seventh state to give same-sex couples many marriage something some cannot see happening in the near future. For Japanese American Gary Okabayashi, 65, the absence rights through civil unions. “I don’t think people in Hawaii, in my opinion, they’re not of a civil unions law in the state makes him feel, he says, like Same-sex marriage is legal in five states, including the ready for same sex marriage,” Okabayashi explained. “But a second-class citizen. District of Columbia. I think as far as Hawaii, I think for right now this is as far as “I have a partner and we’ve been together for over 33 But many opponents to the bill believe legislation granting we can go.” years,” Okabayashi explained. “We think civil unions is a civil unions rights to same-sex couples will eventually lead Some opponents to the civil unions bill say same-sex matter of civil rights.” to legalizing same-sex marriage in the state. couples already receive benefits under the Reciprocal The Hawaii couple has been following civil union Hawaii Rep. Gene Ward told the House committee Feb. Beneficiary Act, which passed in 1997. The law essentially legislation in Hawaii for years, Okabayashi said, who is a 10 that he believes the civil unions bill is a legal strategy to extended inheritance and hospital visitation rights to same- JACL member. Last year, a similar same-sex civil unions bill put same sex marriage into motion. Same sex marriage is sex couples, among other things. went to then-Gov. Linda Lingle’s desk. coming and it’s coming soon, he said. But same-sex couples say Hawaii’s reciprocal beneficiary Opponents to same-sex civil unions appealed to the Ward is not the only legislator who has expressed registration provides only the “bare minimum” rights. governor by the thousands, flooding the governor’s office reservations about the civil unions bill. “It’s more like visitation rights if someone’s ill or you with e-mails, letters and phone calls. Russell Pang, chief “Having dealt with this issue intimately over the last 20 could now buy property together. But it does not have of media relations, explained then that the majority of the years, believe me there is nothing more important to people anything to do with our tax laws,” Okabayashi explained, correspondence at the time was in opposition to same-sex in Hawaii than trying to change the sacred institutions of who registered in 2000. “That’s the two major areas that are civil unions. marriage and the family,” said Sen. Mike Gabbard on Jan. lagging is the family relationships and the taxation benefits. It was rumored that the then-governor would not sign 28 on the Senate floor. The Senate voted 19-6 on Jan. 28 to That’s what the opposition does not want: recognition for the civil unions bill, but allow it to become law without her send the bill to the House for consideration. families.” signature. The lack of a civil unions law in Hawaii, supporters say, is Although optimistic that the governor will sign civil However on the last day she had to make a decision, July a civil rights issue. unions into law, supporters say in the interim they will not “The bill is not about marriage or about religion, but about stop fighting for equality. 6, Lingle vetoed the bill. n “It was just a slap in the face,” said 68-year-old Lenny how the government treats its citizens, how we treat one “Nothing is over until it’s over,” Zimmerman said. 4 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 NATIONAL NEWS PACIFIC CITIZEN Japanese American Vet Receives Congressional Gold Medal

photo by curt campbell, va palo alto health care system photo courtesy of brian iso

Lawson Sakai, who is also a World War II veteran, presented Robert Ma- sami Iso with a framed copy of the Congressional Gold Medal legislation (pictured left).

Robert Masami Iso snapped a photo (above) with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki years before he was honored.

What was intended to be a bedside ceremony when he was drafted before the war. His family, including for the two-day long Congressional Gold Medal ceremony for a World War II Nisei veteran became a James Iso, was interned at Heart Mountain. in Washington, D.C., said Christine Sato-Yamazaki, NVN Congressional Gold Medal ceremony with A week before the war ended Robert Iso was injured in chair. One Congressional Gold Medal will be presented to about 100 attendees at the VA Menlo Park Italy by a German machine gunner while attempting to save the veterans. Bronze replicas of the medal may be purchased a fallen comrade, said his brother. Robert Iso was confined to division’s Community Living Center in with a case for $50. a wheelchair at the age of 24. Many people and organizations were involved in honoring California. “His one foot is six inches shorter than the other since he Robert Iso. The planning for the ceremony started, James was very badly injured by the German machine gun,” said Iso said, when he called the Japanese American Veterans By Nalea J. Ko Brian Iso, James Iso’s son. “They made fun of him that the Association to inform them that his brother would not attend Reporter cops had a hard time catching up with his wheelchair, how the formal Congressional Gold Medal ceremony. he was a terror on the sidewalk.” “We regret that he will not be there in person to witness his Both veterans of World War II, the Iso brothers were slated James Iso says there is another hero in the Iso family who unit receiving this award, so we hope that this bill presentation to receive the Congressional Gold Medal at a Washington, should also be recognized. helps to serve as a recognition for his extraordinary service D.C. ceremony later this year, but their plans were interrupted “His wife of 60 years was with him all those years, taking during World War II,” Sato-Yamazaki explained. when the eldest brother’s health began to decline. care of him,” James Iso said of his sister-in-law. “I think Other copies of the Congressional Gold Medal bill have Ninety-two-year-old Robert Masami Iso, who served she’s a hero herself taking care of a wounded, wheelchair- been distributed to some veterans, said Brian Shiroyama, in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, was recently bound soldier through his life.” vice president of FFNV. “But this is definitely the first to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. James Iso, a former soldier Rose Iso was on-hand for the special ceremony honoring given out in this manner,” he said. with the Military Intelligence Service, realized that his her husband. Friends and family of Robert Iso say he was unable to brother would be unable to attend the ceremony because of “There were quite a few people there. I was speak at the ceremony because of his failing health. But most his failing health. surprised,” she said of the turnout at the ceremony. said it was clear Robert Iso knew he was being honored. Plans were quickly made Feb. 3 to hold a bedside ceremony In addition to the Congressional Gold Medal, Robert Iso also “It was very obvious he really appreciated it from the to honor the eldest Iso brother with the Congressional Gold earned two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for Valor. expression on his face and what he was trying to say,” Medal, the nation’s highest civilian award. Fellow WWII veteran Lawson Sakai presented Robert Iso Shiroyama said, who was also the master of ceremonies at “I’m glad we made it. I was a little afraid we weren’t with a framed copy of the Congressional Gold Medal bill the event. “Every time we presented something he looked at going to be able to make it because he was going fast,” said signed by President Barack Obama, Rep. Nancy Pelosi and you and responded with grateful eyes. I knew Bob, so I knew James Iso, 86, after the ceremony. “He’s been three weeks Sen. Daniel Inouye. exactly what he was saying.” without food. He’s on intravenous [fluids]. As you can see “I understand that other states have given out the James Iso said his brother has not been able to speak since he’s wasting away.” certification. But we might consider giving it out to some being admitted to the community living center. They had The ceremony was arranged just days before Robert Iso’s of the terminally ill veterans,” explained Lawson Sakai, been using hand signals to communicate. death on Feb. 6. president of Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans, or FFNV. “I said, ‘You were really the hero of the frontline,’” James The event was initially intended to be a bedside ceremony Sakai, however, suggested that families requesting a Iso said about congratulating his brother. “He can’t talk, for the Nisei veteran, but it soon grew. About 100 people private service should absorb any costs associated with so we use hand signals. He gave me a thumbs up, which is gathered at California’s VA Menlo Park division’s future ceremonies. enough.” Community Living Center to honor Robert Iso. The president signed the Congressional Gold Medal bill Funeral arrangements are now being made for Robert Iso. “We were kind of thinking it might have to be at the into law Oct. 5, honoring those who served in the 100th But James Iso says he is also planning to undergo angioplasty bedside. But he was able to get into a wheelchair and we Infantry Battalion, 442nd RCT and MIS. surgery in the next week. wheeled him into the day room,” said VA spokeswoman During WWII, soldiers in the 100th battalion and 442nd Robert Iso did not have any children. But James Iso’s son Kerri Childress. “We just brought in more chairs and people RCT served in Europe. Those in the MIS translated and had been visiting his uncle every night. stood in the back.” interpreted Japanese military communications in the Pacific. Now Brian Iso will make another visit in honor of his uncle, Robert Iso donned his military garb for the ceremony. It Despite being classified as “enemy alien,” some 30,000 JAs delivering his uncle’s signed copy of the Congressional Gold would be the last time the former 442nd RCT soldier would served during the war. Medal to his home. be in uniform. The National Veterans Network (NVN), a coalition of 23 “I’m going to bring it over to my aunt and she’ll keep it The Japanese American first wore the U.S. Army uniform JA veterans and civic organizations, is fundraising to pay there,” Brian Iso explained. n PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL NEWS FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 5 Ariz. Gov. Countersues Federal Government on Immigration Law APA groups call the countersuit ‘a The governor illegally. That requirement was put on hold political stunt’ designed to distract isn’t seeking a by U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton, along from the severity of SB 1070. lump-sum award, with a mandate that immigrants obtain or but rather asks for carry immigration registration papers. By P.C. Staff and Associated Press policy changes The judge, however, let other parts of the in the way the law take effect, such as a provision that bans Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer is suing the federal government people from blocking traffic while seeking federal government for failing to control reimburses states or offering day-labor services on streets. Arizona’s border with Mexico and enforce for the costs of Brewer challenged Bolton’s decision in an immigration laws, and for sticking the state jailing illegal appeals court in San Francisco. She argued with huge costs associated with jailing illegal immigrants who the judge erred by accepting speculation by immigrants who commit crimes. are convicted of the federal government that the law might The lawsuit claims the federal government state crimes. Such burden legal immigrants, and by concluding has failed to protect Arizona from an changes would the federal government likely would prevail. “invasion” of undocumented immigrants. It give the state more Brewer’s appeal is still pending. seeks increased reimbursements and extra reimbursement. Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne, one safeguards, such as additional border fences. Arizona’s of the lawyers defending the law on behalf of Brewer’s court filing serves as a countersuit enforcement law the state, said Arizona bears staggering costs in the federal government’s legal challenge was passed amid from illegal immigration, yet the federal to Arizona’s new enforcement immigration years of complaints government maintains the state is prevented law. The U.S. Justice Department is seeking that the federal from assisting in the enforcement of federal to invalidate the law. government hasn’t immigration law. “Because the federal government has done enough to Horne said Washington has failed to failed to protect the citizens of Arizona, I am lessen the state’s protect the state against an invasion by left with no other choice,” Brewer said. role as the nation’s illegal immigrants. Justice Department spokeswoman Tracy busiest illegal entry “The word ‘invasion’ does not necessarily Schmaler declined to comment on the filing. point. Its passage mean invasion of one country by another But a spokesman for the U.S. Department Governor Jan Brewer gave her Jan. 3 inaugural speech in front of the ignited protests country,” Horne said. “It can mean large of Homeland Security, which is in charge Arizona State Capitol. over whether the numbers of illegal immigrants from various of policing the country’s borders, called law would lead to countries.” Brewer’s lawsuit a meritless action and said Brewer and the attorney general are simply racial profiling, Brewer’s predecessor, Janet Napolitano, Border Patrol staffing is higher than ever. creating a legal sideshow that will do nothing and prompted lawsuits by the Justice who is now the Homeland Security secretary, Asian Pacific American groups are to increase border security.” Department, civil rights groups and other regularly sent the Justice Department denouncing the countersuit as diversionary. Brewer’s lawsuit seeks a court order that opponents seeking to have it thrown out. invoices seeking such reimbursement when “Arizona’s counterclaim against the United would require the federal government to Last summer, the JACL national council she was governor. States is a political stunt designed to distract take extra steps to protect Arizona — such passed a resolution to join future legal efforts The lawsuit doesn’t say exactly how much from the reality that SB 1070’s attempt to as more border fences — until the border is to repeal the law. reimbursement money the state is seeking. mandate racial profiling is unconstitutional,” controlled. Brewer also asks for additional The law would have required police, while Instead, it asks the court to interpret the said the Asian Pacific American Legal border agents and technology along the enforcing other laws, to question a person’s criteria on which the reimbursements are Center in a Feb. 10 statement. “Governor state’s border with Mexico. immigration status if officers had reasonable based, which the state believes will ensure it suspicion the person was in the country gets more funding. n Panel Backs Indiana Immigration Crackdown Bill Many of the bill’s measures echo he said. “We want the rule of law restored, always happens when these kind of laws are calls for border security and respect for laws, Arizona’s SB 1070. period.” put forth.’’ but said that “law enforcement should focus Sen. Mike Young, R-Indianapolis, said Delph’s original bill included a proposal on criminal activities, not civil violations of By Associated Press he didn’t believe any committee members that could have stripped companies who federal code.’’ wanted to harm anyone’s rights, but that knowingly hire illegal immigrants of their Zoeller said taking on immigration INDIANAPOLIS—An Indiana Senate legislators had a duty to uphold the laws that business licenses after a third offense. That enforcement might be “constitutionally committee approved a bill Feb. 9 that its are in place and protect residents. penalty had drawn opposition from business suspect or fiscally impractical.’’ sponsor says would lead to an Arizona-style “I just think it is the right thing to do at this groups and the committee amended the bill “It is a federal responsibility,’’ he said. “It crackdown on illegal immigration in the time,’’ he said. to, instead, strip from offending companies does us no good to try to assume the federal state. The only committee member to vote whatever tax deductions were associated authority.’’ The Senate Pensions and Labor Committee against the bill — Democratic Sen. Karen with each illegal immigrant. Bob Schrameyer, a leader of the Goshen voted 8-1 to advance the proposal, which Tallian of Portage — said its proposals go Kevin Brinegar, president of the Indiana group Citizens for Immigration Law opponents attacked during a four-hour public to “ridiculous lengths’’ and were a “bazillion Chamber of Commerce, told the committee Enforcement, told the Senate committee hearing as opening the door for legitimizing lawsuits waiting to happen.’’ that the organization doesn’t condone any that illegal immigration was at least partly racial profiling. Opponents outside the Senate chamber improper hiring and that the revised penalty to blame for Elkhart County’s double-digit Dozens of people lined up to testify on the during the hearing held signs such as was far superior in that it wouldn’t shut unemployment rate. bill, just hours after Indiana’s Republican “Welcome to Indiana ... where you will be down businesses. He was still concerned “Employers have found it far too easy to attorney general said he had reservations racially profiled.’’ an immigration crackdown could hurt the hire illegal workers, which not only drives about the state inserting itself into what is a Jose Salinas, a Marion County criminal state’s business climate. down wages to improve their bottom line, federal responsibility. court judge, challenged legislators who “We have concerns in terms of economic but take unfair advantage of a minority The bill proposed by Sen. Mike Delph, support the bill on whether they could development and the projection of an air of group,’’ Schrameyer said. R-Carmel, would require police to ask for understand being forced to prove their intolerance,’’ Brinegar said. “We are tired of the lawbreakers thumbing proof of citizenship or immigration status if nationality. Earlier on Feb. 9, state Attorney General their proverbial noses at our system and we they had a reasonable suspicion that a person Salinas said he feared police officers Greg Zoeller joined business, religious tire of the opponents of state immigration is illegally in the country. would rely on race, English fluency and last and other leaders at a Statehouse event legislation continuing their lame claim that Delph told the committee that the bill was names to determine whom to question. announcing support for what they called it’s a federal problem.’’ aimed at putting teeth into existing laws. “Whether we want to believe it or not, rational immigration reform principles. The bill now goes to the Senate “We say ‘no more’ to illegal immigration,’’ human nature is what it is and the envelope That group’s statement said immigration Appropriations Committee for consideration is pushed all the time,’’ Salinas said. “That is a matter for the federal government. It of its financial costs. n 6 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 COMMUNITY NEWS PACIFIC CITIZEN Ben Kuroki: The WWII Hero With ‘Lucky Ears’ A new children’s book tells the story of a boy the only JA to contribute to the air raid bombing of mainland from Nebraska who became a WWII Army Air Japan, Kuroki felt similar to his fellow servicemen. Force hero. “I didn’t feel any different than any other American,” he said. By Christine McFadden Correspondent Painful Paradoxes in the States Kuroki additionally served as a spokesperson for the Sergeant Ben Kuroki has led a lucky life. From serving government, visiting three Japanese incarceration camps: and surviving 58 combat missions in two tours of duty in Heart Mountain in Wyoming, Minidoka in Idaho, and Topaz multiple theaters during World War II, to being the only in Utah. Japanese American allowed in the U.S. Army Air Forces Sent to the camps by the War Department in their efforts to to serve in combat operations in the Pacific, Kuroki is an recruit Nisei for the 442nd and Military Intelligence Service, American hero. he faced a painful paradox. The recipient of numerous awards including the “You go to the entrance and the guards with bayonets and Distinguished Service Medal in 2005 and the feature rifles were wearing the same uniform I’m wearing and inside of Public Broadcasting Service’s documentary “Most are all my people,” he said. To many, Kuroki was perceived Honorable Son: Ben Kuroki’s Amazing War Story,” he is as a war hero and was surrounded in the camps by people additionally the feature of a recent biography geared toward wanting autographs — conversely, many had opposite younger audiences entitled “Lucky Ears” by award-winning sentiments. author, Dr. Jean Lukesh. “The kids thought he was a hero,” said Lukesh. “To some After including Kuroki in part of a Nebraska studies of the older people, he was not a hero. They hated him. They textbook, Lukesh came into contact with Kuroki and wanted to kill him … They felt like they were being betrayed requested to interview him in person. Wanting to do a series by their adopted country and all of a sudden, here’s Ben who of biographies on famous Nebraskans who have had major looks like them, who is dressed like an American soldier, impacts in the world, Lukesh knew immediately that Kuroki who is wanting to come in and take their adult males to join was perfect for her series. the American Army. He felt like he was a Judas at times.” “I told him that I often worked with students of various In “Lucky Ears,” Kuroki demanded that Dr. Lukesh include ethnic backgrounds and that they — and we — all needed hearing a radio broadcast that they were taking enlistments. a picture of the honor roll list from Minidoka displaying all good heroes and role models, especially ones that had some He called to double-check that nationality was not a of the casualties of volunteers in the 442nd from the camp. commonality with themselves, such as ethnic diversity, hindrance. “At Minidoka, where I visited, they had the biggest casualty heritage, adversity-to-overcome, or just living in the same Kuroki nevertheless faced racial prejudice once in the of all of the ten internment centers. There are 65 names on state,” said Lukesh. Air Corps. He spent 21 straight days in Arkansas peeling that honor roll … I felt some remorse because I probably Kuroki agreed. potatoes. After begging for the chance to go overseas, Kuroki encouraged some to volunteer,” he said, commenting that Released this October, “Lucky Ears” has since received joined the 93rd bomb group in England as a clerk typist. they made the “supreme sacrifice.” positive feedback from a variety of audiences and sales When the danger of the missions increased the need For Lukesh, explaining the JA incarceration in “Lucky have traveled as far as the United Kingdom, New Zealand, for additional gunmen, Kuroki was allowed to become Ears” was a challenge to adapt amongst younger readers. Germany, South Africa, India, and many more locations. She a member of the crew and earned the nickname “Most “The internment camps are very hard to explain … I is currently working on an adult version of the biography. Honorable Son.” He participated in missions in the European couldn’t bring that in as much as I wanted to in the children’s “There is an interest in it being Asian American, Japanese theater and in Africa, completing 30 missions and earning version; they really can’t quite understand that,” Lukesh American, being a war story, a military story; it’s multi- two Distinguished Flying Crosses. said. She hopes to go into more depth about the camps in the layered,” she said. “It’s a story about a hero. He’s just a Despite his many awards and accolades earned overseas, adult version of the biography. universal hero.” Kuroki still faced racial discrimination once he returned Lukesh, whose father was a German American Army home to the U.S. officer, interpreter, and Dachau liberator, both drew on Lucky Ears “I tried to share a taxi cab with a civilian in Denver,” experiences told by her father and followed middle school curriculum for teaching the Holocaust. In interviewing Kuroki for “Lucky Ears” in 2007, recalled Kuroki. “He slammed the door in my face and said, “Along the way, Ben and I also had to agree to what we Dr. Lukesh uncovered a multitude of stories that, to her ‘I won’t ride with no damn Jap.’” could share with the children,” she continued. “There were knowledge, had never before been brought up in any other “There were things like that after I had finished 30 times during the writing of the book when Ben wanted resource — including the story of his lucky ears. missions,” he said. “After I had risked life and limb flying something to be more in-depth, traumatic, or hard-hitting, and “That is a family legend,” said Kuroki in an interview with missions. And so I decided then I still hadn’t proved myself I had to keep reminding him that this book was for younger the Pacific Citizen. “He [my father] said that a son would be enough and that I wanted to do even more.” readers who did not yet have the background knowledge or born with two little holes in the ears and that he would be a To the disbelief of many fellow servicemen, Kuroki experience for some of that.” very lucky person and also famous.” volunteered for another round of duty, this time in the Pacific. “And Ben has been,” said Lukesh. “It makes perfect sense “I wanted to prove myself a little bit more. That was my — all the way through, he has had a miraculous life.” The motivation,” he said. His 59th Mission After completing 58 combat missions, Kuroki has called only one in his family to have the distinguished marking, However, Kuroki faced a seemingly insurmountable his fight against racial prejudice his 59th mission. After the Kuroki did not think much about his ears and even used to barrier after finally being assigned to a B-29 crew. After war, he traveled the country speaking about racial equality laugh about the two natural holes at the tops of his cartilage. months of training, the War Department barred Kuroki from and tolerance funded in part by a 1946 biography by Ralph But at 93, one of two surviving siblings out of the ten flying against the Japanese. G. Martin entitled “Boy From Nebraska: The Story of Ben Kuroki children, and after what he calls “many miracles” “That made me angry and all the more determined,” Kuroki.” during WWII, Kuroki has come to appreciate his lucky ears. Kuroki recalled. “I wanted to try to get into Pacific combat.” On Nov. 6, Kuroki flew to Washington, D.C. for the “A lot of things happened that should’ve killed him along Luckily, others also wanted to see Kuroki have the right to American Veterans Center’s 13th annual conference during the way,” said Lukesh. return to combat; after prominent Californians sent telegrams which he received the prestigious Audie Murphy Award. Kuroki participated as a gunman in 58 missions despite to Secretary of War Henry Stimson, Kuroki was granted an Kuroki spoke twice at the conference and received a standing many gunmen not surviving more than a few missions. exception to the War Department’s discriminatory policy and became both the first and the only JA allowed to enter active ovation each time. Lukesh and her husband were invited to the conference, Most Honorable Son combat with the Air Force in the Pacific. Once in Japan, Kuroki — given the new nickname of “Sad where “Lucky Ears” was unveiled during the first of Kuroki’s The son of an immigrant father from Japan who settled in speeches. Lukesh’s husband, standing in the back of the Hershey Valley, west of North Platte, Nebraska, Kuroki grew Saki” — made sure that somebody walked in front and in back of him in fear that he would be mistaken for the enemy Navy Memorial amphitheater, noticed that Kuroki’s speech up on a farm with four brothers and five sisters. After the brought some to tears. bombing of Pearl Harbor, Kuroki volunteered for the Army and shot, even while in uniform. Not being able to go to the latrine at night, Kuroki joked in the documentary that he Kuroki’s message was about “being an American — a the next day with his brother, Fred, but was never called patriotic American no matter what your ethnic background, back. should have been given a Purple Heart for bladder damage. Regardless of these restrictions and the fact that he was no matter what branch of service, no matter what: you’re He then headed in the direction of the Air Corps after American first,” said Lukesh. n PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL/COMMUNITY FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 7 1881 Post St. DOR Events Japanese Cultural and Across the U.S. Community Center of Northern California EDC 1840 Sutter St. Day of Remembrance Ceremony Through cultural presentations, MOORESTOWN, NJ education and a candle lighting Feb. 19, 1-4 p.m. ceremony, the keynote speaker Moorestown Friends will be Rev. Michael Yoshii. San School Dining Hall Francisco Board of Education 110 E. Main St. Member Emily Murase will emcee. $5/members; $10/non-members Info:www.dayofremembrance.org A follow-up discussion to the violent incidents that took place at South ‘Fighting Against Fear’ – 31st Philadelphia High School. Annual Day of Remembrance Info: Cliff Akiyama Program 267/235-9426 or Don Kajioka at SAN JOSE, CA Sculpture artist Dale Smith with Mia Furichi Fong, the sculpture’s model, at the memorial dedication. [email protected] Feb. 20, 5:30-7:30p.m. San Jose Buddhist IDC Church Betsuin DOR Proclamation Signing 640 N. Fifth St. BOISE, ID Free and open to the public DOR Gala Marks Merced Assembly Feb. 21. 1:30-2 p.m. This event aims to bring different Idaho State Capitol communities together to fight Center’s First Anniversary Office of the Governor for equality, justice and peace. Highlights include a performance By Pacific Citizen Staff lifted the burden off of their backs,” said Taniguchi. 700 W. Jefferson Gov. CL “Butch” Otter signs a from San Jose Taiko and the “People are feeling that it’s OK to remember … to proclamation in honor of DOR. traditional candlelight procession At its Feb. 19 Day of Remembrance gala dinner, remember is to honor.” Join in the event and attend lunch through historic Japantown. the Livingston-Merced and Cortez JACL chapters The memorial features a bronze monument of at 11:30 a.m. at Yen Ching Fine Info: www.sjnoc.org or will mark the first anniversary of the Merced a young girl sitting on top of a stack of suitcases. Chinese restaurant. 408/374-2722 Assembly Center Memorial’s dedication. More than 4,600 JAs were incarcerated The memorial, located in the Merced County in unroofed barracks at the Merced County NCWNP CCDC Fairgrounds, marks the site where during Fairgrounds, beginning in 1942, after the Japanese Honouliuli Historic National CCDC JACL DOR Site — Dream or Reality? World War II over 250 buildings were set up to bombing of Pearl Harbor. FRESNO, CA KUNIA, HI Feb. 20, 11 a.m. imprison local Japanese Americans from Merced, Every year on Feb. 19, JA communities Feb. 27, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Pardini’s Catering and Banquets Livingston, Turlock and other surrounding areas. commemorate Day of Remembrance, the Monsanto Company 2257 West Shaw Ave. For two years, the Livingston-Merced and anniversary of the 1942 signing of Executive Order 94-520 Kunia Road $40/general; $20/Nisei veterans Cortez JACL chapters fundraised and worked 9066, which authorized the forced evacuation and The Japanese Cultural Center of and youth with the community to build the memorial, which incarceration of over 100,000 JAs during WWII. Hawaii, the Honolulu JACL and In the Central Valley, DOR is was unveiled last February. Now the chapters are The Livingston-Merced and Cortez JACL Monsanto Hawaii will mark the 68th highlighted with the Distinguished anniversary of the establishment of working to raise an additional $10,000-$15,000 to chapters’ gala dinner will also be an opportunity American Awards. The 2011 the Honouliuli internment camp by awardees include Assemblyman complete a documentary on the memorial. to reflect on the importance of the lessons learned hosting a pilgrimage. Juan Arambula, the Charles The documentary “A Journey of Injustice, the from the WWII internment. Info: www.jcch.com Pashayan family and David “Mas” Merced Assembly Center”, produced by METV of “It’s important to remember that we all must be Masumoto. the Merced County Office of Education, features vigilant of civil rights for all Americans, especially Monterey Bay Day of Info: 559/960-0852 footage of the monument being built, installed minorities,” said Taniguchi. n Remembrance and unveiled. Over 30 interviews were conducted SALINAS, CA PSW Feb. 27, 1:30- 4 p.m. for the 45-minute documentary, which will be JANM’s Day of Remembrance Livingston-Merced and Cortez Salinas Community Center LOS ANGELES, CA available as an educational tool for schools. 940 N. Main St. JACL DOR Gala Dinner Feb. 19, 2 p.m. Since it’s unveiling, the memorial has The highlight of this Day of Feb. 19 JA Nat’l Museum touched many people, said Bob Taniguchi, of Remembrance observance will be Merced County Fairgrounds 369 E. First St. the performance of “Hold These the Livingston-Merced JACL and the Merced 900 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way This year’s theme “September 11: Truths: The Journey of Gordon Assembly Center Commemorative Committee. Highlights will include keynote speaker Dr. Ten Years After” was selected by the Hirabayashi” by actress and A family recently scattered some ashes of a Isao Fujimoto of UC Davis and Stockton Taiko. DOR committee because of growing playwright Jeanne Sakata and former Merced Assembly Center internee near anti-Muslim sentiments. An award will be presented to Rep. Dennis starring Ryun Yu. Info: 213/625-0414 the memorial. People have driven from all over Cardoza. Former internees who come to the Info: Mas Hashimoto at hashi79@ the country to visit the memorial, often leaving banquet will receive a commemorative coin. sbcglobal.net or 831/722-6859 keepsakes and personal items as tributes. Info: Janet Fujimoto at 209/723-8588 or “For years and years the Nisei were silent about Bob Taniguchi at 209/383-5161 ‘Enemy Alien: An Innocent this [the internment], but after Redress in 1988, it Post 9/11 Detainee’s Fight for Freedom’ SACRAMENTO, CA Feb. 19, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Calif. Assemblymember Introduces DOR Resolution California Secretary of State Office Building Auditorium A California Assembly member has introduced The resolution also calls on the chief clerk of the 1500 11th Street a bill, which would declare Feb. 19 as a Day of Assembly to transmit copies of the resolution to the $15/general admission, $10/ Remembrance to increase public awareness of the governor, the superintendent of public instruction, student, free/kids under 18 events surrounding the internment of Japanese the state library and the California State Archives. Filmmaker Konrad Aderer, whose Americans during World War II. “I am proud to introduce this important resolution JA grandmother was incarcerated during WWII, presents this gripping Assembly Concurrent Resolution 16 would declare that pays respect to Japanese Americans who had 70-minute story of an innocent Pal- only this Feb. 19 as a statewide DOR. their freedom stripped and were forced to live as estinian American activist’s impris- This year marks the 69th anniversary of the signing prisoners,” said Eng. “Day of Remembrance should onment after 9/11. The Florin, Lodi, of Executive Order 9066, a policy of “grave injustice serve as a day that we reflect upon civil liberties Placer County and Sacramento against American citizens and resident aliens of as we continue to fight for justice and equality and JACL chapters are sponsoring the Japanese ancestry” according to the resolution. ensure that history is never repeated again.” program. After Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, President In 2008, Eng also authored Assembly Joint Reso- Info: www.nctor.com Franklin D. Roosevelt signed E.O. 9066 in 1942 lution 33, which urged the Citizens Stamp Advisory San Francisco Bay Area DOR authorizing the Secretary of War to prescribe certain Committee of the U.S. Postal Service to approve a SAN FRANCISCO, CA areas as military zones and clearing the way for the commemorative postage stamp honoring WWII Ni- Feb. 20, 2 p.m. incarceration of JAs in internment camps. sei veterans. n Sundance Kabuki Theatre 8 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 VOICES/NATIONAL PACIFIC CITIZEN House Extends Key Provisions of Patriot Act for the

recordby john tateishi

By Jim Abrams provisions and that if Congress fails to PATRIOT Act Tanks Associated Press Writer extend them, “we will forfeit our ability to prevent terrorist attacks.’’ He said a Now here’s an interesting turn of events: the objection to the PATRIOT Act is that it gives the WASHINGTON­—The House on temporary extension “is the only way slam dunk that hits the rim and bounces off, the government too much power. Feb. 14 agreed to a 10-month extension to provide House members the time to home run that goes foul at the last minute, the As sometimes happens in politics, and as of three key law enforcement powers study the law’’ and consider possible touchdown that gets fumbled at the one-yard the old cliché about politics makes for strange in the fight against terrorism that some changes. line. bedfellows suggests, liberals and Tea Partiers privacy advocates from both the right This time the bill was brought up The sure thing that wasn’t so sure after all. joined in their objections to the PATRIOT Act and left regard as infringements on civil under a procedure requiring only a On Feb. 8, less than a month into the new but for very different reasons which, ultimately, liberties. simple majority for passage. Democrats session of Congress the new Republican come to the same thing. The House measure, passed 275-144, got only one chance at changing majority, confident it could dictate the House The Tea Party objections to the PATRIOT would extend authority for the USA the bill: an amendment stating that legislative agenda, called for a vote on a bill that Act are that the government is too big and too Patriot Act-related provisions until Dec. investigations must comply with the would provide a nine-month extension of the powerful and too intrusive. The government 8. Common ground must be found with Constitution and that courts must most troubling provisions of the USA PATRIOT should not be able to intrude in our lives by the Senate before the provisions expire give expedited consideration when Act. snooping around in our laundry, clean or dirty. on Feb. 28. a U.S. citizen argues that his or her And failed. The government has no right to be in our At issue are two provisions of the post- constitutional rights have been violated. Twenty-six freshmen Republicans joined with bedrooms or in our business accounts or our Sept. 11 law that give counterterrorism It was defeated on a party-line vote. a majority (but not all) Democrats to vote “nay” library records. Tea Party candidates throughout offices roving wiretap authority In the Senate, Judiciary Committee on the extension, defeating what should have the last election campaign talked about liberty to monitor multiple Chairman Patrick been an easy victory for the House leadership. and freedom, imagining, I suppose, liberty and electronic devices and Leahy, D-Vt., on Oops! freedom in the terms of Patrick Henry and Paul court-approved access Feb. 17 plans to bring According to House rules, this bill (HR Revere. Small government. That’s what they to business records before his committee 514) required a two-thirds majority, which the want, and the PATRIOT Act exemplifies big ‘I believe the relating to a terrorist a bill that would Republicans have if everyone falls in line. In government at its worst. investigation. extend the three the past few decades, the Republicans (unlike The liberals’ approach to the PATRIOT Act American The third “lone provisions through their brethren on the other side of the aisle) has been strictly from a Constitutional point. By wolf’’ provision of a 2013 while tightening have maintained the kind of strong discipline giving the government the authority to conduct people have a 2004 law permits secret disclosure procedures. among its ranks to have frequently befuddled wire taps on our phones without having to get a intelligence surveillance legitimate fear Republicans have or over-powered the Democrats, especially on court order to show cause; to be able to conduct of non-U.S. individuals countered with a significant issues and legislation. And this was surveillance on anyone they label a suspected not known to be linked of out-of-control proposal to make an important bill, a legacy of the Bush era that, terrorist, whether justified or not; to give the to a specific terrorist the three measures we were told repeatedly would keep Americans FBI access to personal credit card and medical organization. government.’ permanent. safe from terrorists who were ready to strike at records, as well as to business records; to be On Feb. 8 the House, There’s pressure on any moment. able to get individual library records — these in an embarrassment for the two chambers to But not all Republicans fell in line with the are among the more egregious violations of the new GOP leadership, reach agreement this party vote. The 26 new members appear to be individual rights allowed by the PATRIOT Act. failed to pass the same week because next mostly if not all Tea Party members for whom The liberal objection to the act is that it — Rep. Dana bill under an expedited week, leading up to party protocol has little meaning. If this vote is violates the basic tenets of the individual liberties Rohrabacher, procedure requiring a the Feb. 28 deadline, an indication of what’s to come, the Republican afforded by the Constitution and undermines two-thirds majority. R-Calif. Congress will not be in leadership will have to deal with independent- the very foundations of democracy in America. Twenty-six Republicans session. minded members who don’t necessarily buy into The PATRIOT Act goes too far in allowing joined 122 Democrats in The White House the party agenda. The normal way members of the government to intrude on the private lives voting against it. The Feb. 14 vote drew has said it “does not object’’ to the either party and in either house avoid having to of Americans without regard to reasonable 27 Republican no votes. 10-month extension proposed by the vote the party line on something he or she may limitations. The main objections are to what House but would prefer stretching the find objectionable is simply to miss the vote. And therein, the two — Tea Party and liberals critics see as unconstitutional search provisions through the end of 2013 There were six Republican “No-Votes.” — come together in their objections to the and seize authority and big government because “longer duration provides the What’s interesting is that the Tea Party PATRIOT Act. You call it to-mah-toe and I call intrusions into private lives. necessary certainty and predictability members stood against the majority of their it to-may-toe. “I believe the American people have that our nation’s intelligence and law party. They showed up and defied their party’s It will be interesting to see how this kind a legitimate fear of out-of-control enforcement agencies require.’’ leadership by voting “Nay” when they could of independence demonstrated by Tea Party government,’’ said conservative Laura Murphy, director of the easily have stayed home on the vote. members will play among the power base of the Republican Dana Rohrabacher, one American Civil Liberties Union’s In other words, their “Nay” votes were a Republican leadership. One would have to be of the GOP no votes. “And yes, they Washington legislative office, said statement to their colleagues, both Republicans naïve (or very hopeful) to think that it’s going have a legitimate fear of out-of-control it was a mistake to renew the three and Democrats. to change much because 26 votes won’t always prosecutors and out-of-control spy provisions without added safeguards for What the USA PATRIOT Act represents to swing issues. networks.’’ privacy. them, apparently, is big government intrusion, But it certainly does make it interesting. n But House Judiciary Committee “We urge the Senate to reject this bill the very thing Tea Party candidates campaigned Chairman Lamar Smith, R-Texas, and instead make the necessary changes against in the November elections. They John Tateishi is the immediate past JACL argued that the courts had consistently that will bring the Patriot Act in line want smaller government. In this case, their national director. upheld the constitutionality of the with the Constitution.’’ n PACIFIC CITIZEN ENTERTAINMENT FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 9 Guitar Hero Record Holder Annie Leung Talks Gaming Annie Leung does not play guitar, but she set the Guinness World Record for rocking out on photo courtesy of guinness world records Guitar Hero III in her living room.

By Nalea J. Ko Reporter

Don’t be fooled by Annie Leung’s girlie appearance. Behind the pretty face is a gamer who can hold her own. The 26-year-old holds the Guinness World Record for the highest score on Guitar Hero III set by a female. She won the title by racking up 789,349 to the song “Through the Fire and Flames” by Dragonforce. The Irvine, Calif-resident, whose parents emigrated from Hong Kong, is in the process of attempting to break her own record. Known by the gamer handle “Ecstasy,” Leung’s first professional competitive endeavor came in 2008 at the World Cyber Games, where she ranked first place nationally. Now she’s taken on casual competitors around country and world through her promotional work at gaming conventions. Leung talked with the Pacific Citizen on Valentine’s Day about what it takes to be a professional, female gamer in an industry dominated by males. Pacific Citizen: How has your life changed since you set the Guinness World Record last year? P.C.: A career in gaming is a huge shift from majoring kind of like a shock, ‘Oh, you’re a girl.’ Annie Leung: I’ve gotten a lot more recognition. in environmental economics and policy at the University On my YouTube there’s always some negative comments It’s just cool to have so many people that I’ve kind of of California, Berkeley. like, ‘Oh, girl gamers aren’t good’ or ‘ You should go into the inspired to do that and show them that female gamers are Leung: Yeah, it is [laughs]. So I did that during college. So kitchen and make me a sandwich.’ good and we do play at a top-tier level. Other than that my major really wasn’t related to the marketing and sales I There’s always some harassment that comes with it. It’s it’s just really cool to be able to be on TV and do all these do. It’s economic. So in a way it’s business related, I suppose. unfortunate, but that’s just the way it is. interviews. P.C.: What did you intend to pursue in college? P.C.: Would you like to see more females become P.C.: What made you want to set a world record? Leung: I wanted to pursue more business administration gamers? Leung: I thought it was really cool and something that if I or something like that. Leung: Through my record, I’m really hoping that it’ll get ever had that chance that I would jump on. When Guinness But then on the side I was doing the gaming as well with my more females to attempt the record because I don’t think any contacted me last fall I immediately said ‘yes’ and started friends. There were other opportunities for me out there with females are even close to getting the male record right now. practicing. the gaming, so I kind of pursued that while I was studying. The first week I started practicing [laughs] I think seven P.C.: Do you ever get tired of gaming? to nine hours. I was so tired. My wrist was aching. But I P.C.: You talked about some of the benefits that come Leung: Oh, absolutely. Sometimes like before a got into the practice and started playing the song better and with setting a Guinness World Record. But is all of the competition I will practice like two weeks or a few weeks in better. Eventually I set my score. newfound attention you receive positive? advance and just play every day for a couple of hours. After Leung: It’s not like everyone is congratulating me. Some my competition, I’m so worn out I don’t touch the game for P.C.: You were wearing a wristband in your Guinness people are more negative and like, ‘Oh, she should be playing maybe a month or two months, unless there’s another event World Record, YouTube video. Did you have a Guitar a real guitar.’ coming up. Hero injury? You can’t let those get to you. You just got to let those I notice that when I do take a break and come back into Leung: [Laughs]. Well, it’s actually more for support. I things go [laughs]. the game I actually play better. I notice that I hit sections of a didn’t hurt my wrist. But actually when I play for four-plus song that I could never do before. hours, my wrist does get very tired. P.C.: Were your parents supportive of you pursuing a It prevents my hand from bending too much when I’m career in gaming? P.C. Do you date gamers? trying to play the scales too fast. Sometimes I’ll push my Leung: Well I don’t think I ever thought I would have Leung: Actually my previous boyfriends have all been hand too far trying to play something. So the wristband just a career. But when they saw how much I was gaming they gamers. So the whole gaming, they’re into it. So that wasn’t gives me support. It looks chunky because it’s the only one were kind of worried. an issue at all. The person I’m dating now is into gaming as I have, so it looks like [laughs] ‘Whoa, she broke her wrist.’ But when they saw what I was making out of it and being well but not necessarily as much. able to travel and visit different cities … they started kind of being more supportive about it. P.C. Have you introduced anyone in your family to P.C.: Do you have any Guitar Hero battle wounds? gaming? Leung: I remember one time I played a lot right before P.C.: Did you always want to be a gamer? Leung: Just my sister tried to play a little bit, but she’s not competition. My wrist was hurting really, really bad. Leung: I was not like those kids where, ‘Oh, I’m going to good at it at all [laughs]. She likes to sing most of the time. [Laughs] I tired to use some Bengay. be a doctor or a lawyer or anything like that.’ I just kind of But then it ended up smearing all over my fingers. It was wanted to see where college took me. P.C.: But, isn’t your sister the one who got you interested so greasy I couldn’t play the guitar. I had to wash my hands Right now it’s gaming and being able to do this is really in gaming? for an hour trying to get rid of it. awesome. Leung: Yes. She is eight years older than me. When she started playing those games, she kind of introduced me to it. P.C.: I read about you using baby powder to help you P.C.: What do you think about gamers who get obsessed play Guitar Hero. with video games? P.C.: How does an everyday gamer transition to a pro Leung: That’s my secret or at least it’s something that I Leung: I think it’s never too good to be too obsessed with ready for competitions? use a lot because my hands get really sweaty. anything. There needs to be a balance. Leung: Well, I would say if you’re playing on ‘expert’ It helps my hand move faster between the notes. It does get I know I’ve had my moments where I was playing a lot of and if you’re playing all the difficult songs and you’re hitting a little messy sometimes because I use it a lot. It does get on games. But it didn’t ever consume me to the point where I either 100 percent or 99 percent, then I would start thinking my guitar, so I have to clean it pretty often. stopped going out or I was glued to the computer 24/7. about going into competitions. You can just search either on the web, or you could go P.C.: Do you work full time as a professional gamer? P.C.: You’ve talked about the harassment that female to the Guitar Hero community forum to look up different Leung: I also do some promotional work with my gaming. gamers sometimes endure. Can you tell me about your tournaments or anything that’s going on in the area. Enter So I do a lot of events and product promotions for different experiences? into that and see how you do. n companies. Leung: I know when I started gaming there was always 10 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 NATIONAL NEWS PACIFIC CITIZEN Japan Trip Stirs Memories of ‘Hiroshima Maiden’ National Newsbytes

By Pacific Citizen Staff and Associated Press

Medal of Honor Road Bill Clears Senate Panel BOISE, Idaho—Senators will consider legislation to rename State Highway 3 in honor of Idaho residents who have received the nation’s highest military honor. The bill to christen the roadway as the “North Idaho Medal of Honor Highway” has cleared the Senate Transportation Committee. It now goes to full Senate for consideration. The highway spans about 120 miles and connects U.S. 12 near Spalding with Interstate 90 near Rose Lake, Sen. John Goedde introduced the bill to rename the highway and says Idaho has more than three dozen Medal of Honor recipients, (L-r) Kenneth Oye, Michiko Yamaoka, Willa Michener, and Mari Michener Oye at the Peace Museum in Hiro- including three who are still living. shima, March 30, 2003. Lawmakes Introduce Bill to Ban Shark Fin Soup New England JACLer Kenneth Oye’s professor of political sciences and engineering systems SACRAMENTO—California legislators have introduced a bill to at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). ban the possession, sale and distribution of shark fins used in a tradi- upcoming trip to Japan recalls a past tional soup. connection with a bombing victim. “Like many other Hiroshima Maidens, Michiko was afraid to have children because she was afraid of the Shark fins are used to create a luxury Chinese soup that can sell for effect her exposure to the radiation would have on any more than $80 a bowl. By Joseph Craig children she might have, so she treated me and my Supporters of the ban say shark finning is a cruel practice in which Correspondent brother very, very well.” fishermen slice the shark’s fin off while the animal is still alive and In fact, the number of birth defects among survivors then throw the shark back in the sea to die. Kenneth Oye could still remember hearing a was not as high as feared. beautiful singing voice from his childhood that served Now, as Oye prepares for a trip to Japan as one of Hawaii Rights Commission to Review Mandatory as an introduction to an extraordinary woman with an 13 Japanese American leaders from across the U.S. Tips for Foreign-Language Diners amazing story. who will travel to the country to meet and exchange HONOLULU—A restaurant And now, on the eve of a trip to Japan with the information with leaders in Japan, Oye remembers a has attracted the attention of Japanese American Leadership Delegation (JALD), later chance encounter with his former babysitter. the Hawaii Civil Rights Com- Oye’s thoughts bring him back to memories of Michiko “I was on a family trip and we were in Hiroshima,” mission with a notice that it Yamaoka, a member of the so-called “Hiroshima Oye said. “I happened to look at a local museum and will add a 15 percent gratuity Maidens” who came to the U.S. for medical treatment. saw that they were having a survivor of the Hiroshima to the checks of patrons who While living up in Pennsylvania, Oye’s father, who bombing speak there. I asked whom it was and to my don’t speak English. spoke Japanese, heard of a group of 25 women that surprise, it was Michiko!” The warning is in fine print were brought to the United States by then-Saturday Oye informed the museum staff of his relationship on the menu at Keoni by Review editor Norman Cousins to be treated for with Yamaoka who relayed the message to the Keo’s. scarring and burns that were inflicted upon them by “Hiroshima Maiden”. Upon hearing that Oye was The Waikiki restaurant told the Hiroshima atomic going to be at her KITV that its customer base bombing, which they presentation, Oye includes many international had survived. said Yamaoka quickly travelers who, by custom, do not tip. The restaurant says it’s merely Later known as the prepared for their trying to help its customers and wait staff. “Hiroshima Maidens”, meeting. About 17 percent of the nearly 7 million tourists who visited Hawaii Cousins’ work to “When she arrived, last year were from Japan, where people do not leave tips in restau- bring the group to Michiko presented me rants. the Pennsylvania with a bunch of pictures area for treatment that she had kept House Panel Backs Same-sex Marriage Amendment and plastic surgery all those years from CHEYENNE, Wyo.—A proposed constitutional amendment specify- resulted in Oye’s father when I was a child,” ing that Wyoming won’t recognize same-sex marriages performed in befriending Yamaoka Oye said. “We began other states has cleared a committee hearing in the House. who would later work talking, laughing and The House Judiciary Committee voted 6-3 for the resolution that as Oye’s babysitter. crying and now when I would allow Wyoming voters to decide whether to put language in “One of my earliest look back at it, I think the state Constitution saying the state would only recognize marriages memories as a young it’s funny how all these between one man and one woman. child was this beautiful people showed up to The Wyoming Senate has already approved the measure, which now voice singing to me in hear her talk, but here goes to the full House. The ‘Hiroshima Maidens’ traveled to the U.S. in the 1950s a language that I didn’t I was monopolizing for reconstructive surgery. understand,” said all of her time while Committee Approves Bingo on Hawaiian Island Oye, a New England they were all standing HONOLULU—A House committee is advancing a measure that JACL member. “I around waiting.” would allow bingo on Hawaiian homelands. can remember looking up and, as most four year-old While the JALD will bring Oye back to Japan, The Hawaiian Affairs Committee voted 9-1 for the bill permitting children would do, being scared by the scarring and he said the scheduling makes another meeting with bingo at one location statewide that’s designated by the Hawaiian disfigurement that was present on this woman’s face.” Michiko impossible but he doesn’t rule out once again Homes Commission. Yamaoka, who was a young student in Hiroshima, meeting up with his former babysitter. Nationwide, Hawaii and Utah are the only two states that bar gam- never saw the bomb drop. She looked up and at that “She’s getting a bit up there in age and I know that bling. The bill calls for 80 percent of general excise taxes on gross moment the bomb exploded. In the 1950s Yamaoka if I asked her to come see me wherever we’re staying, bingo receipts to be deposited into a Hawaiian homelands trust fund. had multiple surgery procedures to fix the scars on her she’d feel obligated to come and I wouldn’t want her The rest of the money would go toward the state general fund, admin- face and body. to have to go out of her way to see me,” Oye said. “But istrative expenses and compulsive gambling programs. Oye’s experience with Michiko followed him as he I definitely would like to go out there again in a few The measure still faces two more House committees before it could moved along in life, working to become an associate years to see her again.” n get a vote in the full House and move to the Senate. n PACIFIC CITIZEN NATIONAL/COMMUNITY FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 11

APAsin the News By Pacific Citizen Staff

Shiraki to be Crowned Cherry Blossom Princess JACL’s Jean Michiko Shiraki will be coronated 2011 Hawaii Cherry Blossom Princess April 2 at Virginia’s Fort Myer Office Club. The National Cherry Blossom Festi- val in Washington, D.C. commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington, D.C. Sen. Daniel Inouye and Irene Hirano Inouye will present the crown. Yuba College’s Japanese garden, now overgrown (left) was designed by James Tomita (top) a private gardener Gardena School is Named in Honor of Kiriyama with prestigious clients, according to The Carson/Gardena Community Adult School in Gardena, Calif. family members. has been named in honor of a longtime local educator and Los Ange- les school board member. The George Kiriyama Community Adult School is located at 18120 S. Normandie Ave. Yuba College’s Japanese Garden to be Transplanted Kiriyama served as administrator and principal of the Carson/Gar- dena Community Adult School for a total of 14 years. He was elected The garden was dedicated in 1963 as a unteered his services. in 1995 to the LAUSD Board of Education. gift from the Marysville JACL. “Anytime a school need decoration dad was there with gardenias,” said Nakahara. Morita Named to Lead PUC and Clean Energy Goals By Pacific CitizenS taff The garden was built mostly with the help of volun- Environmentalist Rep. Hermina teers, including Tomita. Morita is Hawaii’s new chairwoman of In 2012, a Northern California college Japanese gar- Callie Allison, a Yuba College language arts teacher the Public Utilities Commission, charged den with JACL roots will be moved from its longtime in the 1960s approached the JACL to help beautify the with directing the state toward energy campus location, but its historic integrity will remain campus. independence. intact, according to college officials. When renovations are complete in 2013, college of- Morita replaces Carlito Caliboso, who The Japanese garden at Yuba College in Marysville, ficials are hoping to rededicate the garden — in its new had been the PUC’s chairman since 2003. Calif. will likely be transplanted to a different part of transplanted location — with the JACL, said Root. Morita’s appointment fills the remainder the campus during a planned renovation of the library. Specialists from the architecture firm and faculty of Caliboso’s six-year term ending in Architects have not specified the garden’s new loca- botanists are studying the plants to ensure the garden’s 2014. tion, according to Miriam Root, Yuba College public historic integrity remains intact after the move, said The three-member PUC is a rate-setting information officer. Root. agency that regulates everything from The 12-foot-by-25-feet Japanese garden, located in Marysville JACLers say preservation should be a electricity to shipping rates. In recent years, it has passed rules creat- an enclosed quad near the Library Learning Resource priority. ing the framework for companies and individuals to feed renewable Center, was dedicated Feb. 18, 1963, as a gift from the “I’m happy any time we can show our Japanese energy to the power grid. Marysville JACL. It is part of one of the first original culture,” said Hatsuye Nakamura, a longtime JACLer buildings on campus. whose husband Frank Nakamura was a charter mem- Asian Pacific Community Fund Announces “We thought it was nice public relations for the ber of the Marysville JACL. “[The garden] is over- a New Generation of Philanthropists Japanese American Citizens League to help beautify grown and it’s important for the college to preserve The Asian Pacific Community Fund(APCF), together with Asian the campus,” said Roger Tokunaga, Marysville JACL it.” Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy AAPIP),( will be chapter president in 1963. Nakahara, who graduated from Yuba College in recognizing young individuals and organizations making a difference In its heyday, the garden’s plants, rocks and wa- 1957 with a business degree, said she has always been in the APA community through their outstanding leadership, volun- ter system provided tranquility and a nice respite for proud to be a part of campus history. She thinks her fa- teerism and philanthropic efforts. Los Angeles’ best and brightest teachers, said Tokunaga. ther would have approved of the preservation efforts. emerging leaders will be honored at the 3rd Annual Emerging Leaders Amidst the foliage, a stone marker declares that “He would be very honored,” said Nakahara. in Philanthropy Awards Reception March 2. James Tomita designed the Japanese garden. In 2006, Yuba College passed a bond measure to This year’s honorees, includes Tuesday Night Project, China “That’s my father,” said Miyoko Nakahara, a renovate and upgrade its current facilities. Renovation Care Bruins, Lisa Chong, Jonathan Chi-Lin Lee, Jonathan Lee Marysville JACL member. on the library where the garden is located is expected ■ and Robert Lee. Tomita, a private gardener who “loved nature” vol- to begin January 2012.

APALC’s Kwoh Receives Leadership Award The California Association of Human Relations Organizations has presented its JCCCNC Announces Inaugural Takahashi 2011 CAHRO Leadership Award to Stew- art Kwoh, the president and executive Youth Ambassador Fellowship Program director of the Asian Pacific American Le- gal Center (APALC), a member of Asian The Japanese Cultural and Community Center of experiencing culture first-hand through a 10-day trip American Center for Advancing Justice. Northern California (JCCCNC) is inviting interested to Japan from July 19-28. Kwoh, a nationally recognized civil youth to apply for its inaugural Takahashi Youth The Takahashi Youth Ambassador Fellowship rights advocate who has received doz- Ambassador Fellowship Program to Japan. Program is named in honor of Henri and Tomoye n ens of awards, including a MacArthur This new youth scholarship program to travel to Takahashi. “Genius” Grant, was honored during Japan is open to 8th-11th grade students interested CAHRO’s statewide training conference, in learning more about their Nikkei heritage, gaining For more information and an application: “California: The State of Human Relations” at The California Endow- valuable leadership skills, participating in their JCCCNC at 415/567-5505 or community, creating international friendships and ment’s Center for Health Communities. n http://www.jcccnc.org/. 12 FEB. 18-Mar. 3, 2011 COMMUNITY/NATIONAL PACIFIC CITIZEN Census Estimates Show Big Gains for U.S. Minorities Hispanics accounting for much of the gain in many of the of the U.S. population, down from 69 percent in 2000. states picking up new House seats. Hispanics had a 16 percent share, compared with 13 percent Preliminary census estimates also suggest the number a decade ago. Blacks represent about 12 percent and Asians of multiracial Americans jumped roughly 20 percent since roughly five percent. Multiracial Americans and other groups 2000, to over 5 million. made up the remaining two percent. The findings, based on fresh government survey data, offer • California, Texas, New York and Hawaii were among a glimpse into 2010 census results that are being released on the states with the largest number of people who identified a state-by-state basis. New Jersey, Mississippi, Virginia and themselves as multiracial. Louisiana were the first to receive the census redistricting • Some 40 states show population losses of white children data, which will be used in the often contentious process of since 2000 due to declining birth rates. Minorities represented redrawing political districts based on population and racial all of the increases in the under-18 population in Texas and makeup. By law, all states must receive their redistricting Florida, and most of the gains in the child population in data by April 1. Nevada and Arizona. The preliminary demographic numbers are based on the “The new engines of growth in America’s population are Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey as of March Hispanics, Asians and other minorities,’’ Frey said. “But it’s 2010, as well as comparisons of the 2000 census with 2009 just the tip of the iceberg. For the under-18 population — demographic estimates and the 2009 American Community potential voters in the not-too-distant future — minorities Survey, which samples 3 million U.S. households. accounted for virtually all the growth in most U.S. states.’’ According to those figures, minorities represented “Political strategists and advocates, especially in growing between 81 percent and 89 percent of the U.S. population states, cannot afford to ignore this surging political wave,’’ growth since 2000, higher than the official 80 percent share he said. in 2000. In December, the Census Bureau officially reported the Hispanics, Asians and Multiracials are the The minority growth share in 2010 is the largest in nation’s population was 308,745,538, up from 281.4 million recent memory, with only the influx of European minority a decade ago. The growth rate for the past decade was 9.7 fastest growing groups. immigrants such as Italians, Poles and Jews in the late percent, the lowest since the Great Depression, with most of 1800s possibly rivaling it in scope, said William H. Frey, the growth occurring in the South and West. By Associated Press a demographer at Brookings Institution who analyzed the The population changes will result in a shift of House census data. seats taking effect in 2013. n WASHINGTON—Racial and ethnic minorities accounted Other findings include: for roughly 85 percent of the nation’s population growth • In all, non-Hispanic whites make up roughly 65 percent On the web: www.census.gov over the last decade — one of the largest shares ever — with

Community Leaders Encourage Involvement in Redistricting Process

responsive to the needs of Asian American and Pacific Islander The way district lines are drawn influences Redestricting Meetings whether or not elected officials will be responsive communities, such as securing funding for bilingual education classes or ensuring that limited English proficient individuals to the needs of the Asian Pacific American com- Alameda County in the community have access to health care,” said Eugene Lee, munity. Feb. 15 voting rights project director for the Asian Pacific American 5:30–8 p.m. Legal Center. By Pacific Citizen Staff Oakland Asian Cultural Center APA communities have, in past redistrictings, been 388 9th St. fragmented by district boundaries. In 2001, the San Jose Oakland, CA 94607 To ensure Asian Pacific Americans have a strong political neighborhood of Berryessa was split among four state assembly RSVP: Jenn Pae, [email protected] voice in 2011 and beyond, community leaders are urging APAs districts, even though over half of Berryessa’s population is to get involved in the redistricting APA, according to the Asian Law Los Angeles County process. Caucus. South Bay Every 10 years after the Census, District boundaries that split APA Feb. 17 new district maps are drawn communities weaken their political 6– 8:30 p.m. for Congress, county boards of ‘When our communities voice, community leaders say. Japanese Cultural Institute supervisors, and city councils. The A statewide network of APA 1964 W. 162nd St., 2nd floor next time redistricting will happen is are fragmented into community organizations called Gardena, CA 90247 in 2011. the Coalition of Asian Pacific RSVP: Mark Masaoka, “When neighboring APA multiple districts, our Americans for Fair Redistricting [email protected] communities are included in a single (CAPAFR) is holding community district, we become a force to be influence is diluted. meetings February to provide Los Angeles County reckoned with,” said Mark Masaoka, APA community members the San Gabriel Valley policy coordinator for the Asian In 1990 there were opportunity to review potential Feb. 22 Pacific Policy and Planning Council. district configurations and to collect 6-8:30 p.m. Bruggemeyer Library “When our communities are feedback on which configurations no APAs in the state 318 S. Ramona Ave., 2nd floor fragmented into multiple districts, best reflect APA interests and Monterey Park, CA 91754 our influence is diluted. In 1990 there concerns. were no APAs in the state legislature. legislature. Today RSVP: Mark Masaoka Results from the meetings will [email protected] Today there are eight.” be incorporated into statewide California’s new Citizens there are eight.’ assembly and state Senate mapping San Francisco & Redistricting Commission, a proposals. San Mateo Counties governmental body responsible for — Mark Masaoka, Asian Pacific APA communities will likely Feb. 24 conducting redistricting, will hold Policy and Planning Council remain among California’s fastest- 5:30-8 p.m. two rounds of hearings this year. It growing populations during the Asian Law Caucus has a deadline of Aug. 15 to establish next decade, said Lee. “However, 55 Columbus Ave. new district boundaries. whether their political power grows San Francisco, CA 94111 “The way that district lines commensurate with future population growth will be largely RSVP: Carlo De La Cruz, are drawn influences whether or not elected officials are predetermined by district lines drawn in 2011.” ■ [email protected] PACIFIC CITIZEN COMMUNITY/NATIONAL FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 13 Comcast, NBC Sign Landmark Agreement to Increase Asian American Representation Asian Pacific American leaders are The 16-page memorandum details applauding the Federal Communications commitments to, among other things, Commission’s recent merger launch a new video on demand between Comcast and NBC channel called Cinema Asian Universal as an opportunity to America as part of its standard increase diversity in the media digital package. Thousands of mourners have traveled to Fresno to pay respect to the military leader. and workforce. Comcast will also dedicate Comcast and NBC Universal at least $1 million over signed a memorandum of three years to APA themed Vang Pao’s Family Urges Arlington Burial understanding with Asian programming. By Garence Burke decision,’’ she said. “The planes my Pacific American organizations “Until now the door of ac- Associated Press husband was flying in crashed at least eight — including the JACL — committing to cess to media participation has been virtu- times in their attempts to save American the inclusion of APAs in the media and in ally closed to Asian Americans,” said Floyd FRESNO, California—Gen. Vang Pao’s soldiers. If that is not sacrifice, what is?’’ their corporate offices. Mori, JACL national director. “This agree- widow and children appealed to President Vang Pao died on Jan. 6 at age 81 in “With the merger approved, I look for- ment is a great beginning of cracking open Barack Obama on Feb. 8 to overturn the central California after battling pneumonia. ward to seeing the benefits of that MOU opportunities for the general public to see Army’s decision denying the revered Thousands of mourners have traveled flow to our community,” said Rep. Mike Asian American talent and our role in the Hmong leader and U.S. military ally to Fresno to pay their respects to their late Honda. community at large.” n full burial honors at Arlington National leader during an elaborate, six-day memorial Cemetery. service including Christian, Buddhist and The Laotian general’s wife, May Song traditional Hmong ceremonies to guide Vang, said she had hoped her husband’s Vang Pao’s soul back to his childhood role leading a covert guerrilla army that home in Longhay, Laos. saved hundreds of American lives during California Democratic Reps. Jim Costa the Vietnam War would be recognized. and Dennis Cardoza submitted the original Army Secretary John McHugh’s decision request to McHugh on behalf of Vang YAMATO TRAVEL BUREAU ® C.S.T. 1019309-10 Feb. 4 denying the general a final resting Pao’s family shortly after his death, saying place in Virginia was unjust, she said. the general had earned the honor of being “I am deeply hurt and insulted by the buried alongside American soldiers. n PROPOSED ESCORTED TOURS & CRUISES SCHEDULED FOR 2011

April 4-10 Yamato’s Washington D.C. Cherry Blossom Tour - 7 days/6 nights visiting Philadelphia, Philippe Theriault Japan-America Summit Calls For Applicants Lancaster, Washington D.C., Mt. Vernon. Lilly Nomura

The Japan-America Grassroots Summit, determined to return to Japan to pass on the April 5-19 Yamato Deluxe Spring Tour to Japan – 15 days/13 nights visiting Tokyo, Sendai, Niigata, Peggy Mikuni Takayama, Kanazawa, Amanohashidate, Hiroshima/Miyajima, Kyoto. a goodwill exchange program that aims knowledge and goodwill he had received April 10-17 Crystal Cruise Pacific Escape – 8-days/7nights aboard Crystal Symphony from Los Angeles Sharon Seto to strengthen the peaceful relationship from Whitfield and the community of sailing to Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Astoria, Seattle and Victoria (BC). between the two countries, is accepting Fairhaven. Apr. 29-May 12 Yamato Britain & Ireland Tour with Collette Vacations – 14 days/12 nights visiting Sharon Seto applications for the June 27-July 4 program The bond between Manjiro and Whitfield London, Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff, Blarney, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dublin, Wales, Gretna Green, Edinburgh, York, Coventry & Stratford-Upon-Avon. in Kochi, Japan. has resulted in more than 160 years of The Fresno JACL chapter is helping to friendship between their descendents. June 5-15 Yamato Essential Spain Tour – 11 days/9 nights visiting Barcelona, Madrid, San Sebastian, Philippe Theriault Burgos, Bilbao, Seville, Cordoba, Gibraltar, Costa del Sol, la Ronda, Granada. recruit participants for the program touted Members of the Whitfield and Nakahama to be open to participants regardless of age, families play a pivotal role in the Center July 8-13 Yamato Boston & New York by Rail Tour – 6 days/5 nights visiting highlights in Boston Philippe Theriault as well as visiting Concord & Lexington and New York City sites. occupation or language ability. Kochi is the for International Exchange (CIE) Summits, July 8-19 Crystal Cruise Inside Passage Discovery – 13 days/12 nights aboard Crystal Symphony, Sharon Seto sister city of Fresno, Calif. and serve as a reminder of the enormous roundtrip from San Francisco, sailing to Victoria (BC), Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan.

For over 20 years, the summit has been potential of grassroots exchange. September 13-19 South Dakota, The Black Hills & Badlands with Collette Vacations – 7 days/6 nights, Sharon Seto held annually, alternately in the United Last August, the summit was held in San NEW DATES featuring a one hotel stay in Rapid City for the 6 nights, visiting Keystone, Rapid City, Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer, Deadwood, Pine Ridge and Badlands. States and Japan. An average of 200 people Francisco, Calif. with 250 participants from each year travel across the Pacific to take Japan. Among the speakers and special Sep. 26-Oct. 5 Yamato Eastern Canada Fall Foliage Tour – 10 days/9 nights visiting Quebec, New Philippe Theriault Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Cape Breton. part in the program, according to the Japan- guests were Japanese Ambassador to the America Grassroots Summit. United States Ichiro Fujisaki and former Oct. 1-13 Route 66 with Balloon Fiesta with Trafalgar Tours – 13 days/12 nights visiting Chicago, Sharon Seto St. Louis, Branson, Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Albuquerque (Balloon Fiesta), Flagstaff, Grand One of the summit’s highlights is a Calif. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. n Canyon, Las Vegas, Hollywood, Los Angeles. three-night homestay program that allows October 17-26 Yamato Korean Drama Tour – 10 days/8 nights visiting Seoul, Mt. Seorakson, Gyeongju, Grace Sakamoto participants to experience person-to-person Jeju Island , DMZ. exchanges and the unique culture of the Japan-America Summit October 17-31 Yamato Deluxe Autumn Tour to Japan – 15 days/13 nights visiting Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Peggy Mikuni June 27-July 4 Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Hiroshima/Miyajima, Kyoto, Tokyo. local area with their host families. There will be 14 local programs each highlighting Deadline: March 31 Oct. 31-Nov. 14 Yamato South Pacific Wonders with Collette Vacations – 15 days/12 nights visiting Cairns Collette Escort a different aspect of the rich history and $2,100 (departing from the West (Great Barrier Reef) & Sydney, Australia; Christchurch, Mt. Cook Nat’l Park, Queenstown, Coast) or $2,150 (departing from the & Milford Sound, New Zealand. culture of the region. East Coast) Nov. 13-21 The Heart of Texas with Collette Vacations – 9 days/8 nights visiting Austin, San Antonio, Sharon Seto Kochi, the capital city of the Kochi Bandera (dude ranch) and Fort Worth. Price includes round-trip airfare Prefecture on Japan’s Shikoku Island, is between San Francisco or December 3-12 Yamato Christmas Markets of Europe Tour – 10 days/8 nights visiting Prague, Rothenburg, Philippe Theriault the birthplace of Nakahama Manjiro, a Los Angeles and Kochi, hotel Dinkelsbuehl to Ulm, Neuschwanstein, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Salzburg, Vienna. Japanese fisherman who is credited with accommodations, transportation * * * introducing and explaining American in Japan and all participation, culture and technology to the Japanese. administration, and handling costs. Yamato Travel Bureau® continues to be a full service travel agency. We sell all phases of leisure and corporate travel: airline tickets; hotel In 1841, an American whaling ship The package does not include airline accommodations; car rentals; tours; cruises; rail passes, etc. We also have discounted airfares to many destinations. Please call on our experienced rescued five shipwrecked Japanese taxes, fuel surcharge, 4 percent travel consultants for your travel and tour arrangements. Professional memberships: American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), Cruise Lines credit card processing fee, hotel International Association (CLIA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Vacation.com consortium. fishermen, including Manjiro, then 14, who single supplement surcharge, and Please visit our website at www.yamatotravel.com for tour itineraries and other travel specials. earned the respect of the American crew and the name, “John.” optional tours during or after the summit. YAMATO TRAVEL BUREAU® Manjiro was taken to Fairhaven, Mass. FOR MORE INFORMATION: 250 East First Street, Suite #1112 to receive an American education under http://www.manjiro.or.jp or Ted Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 680-0333 or (800) 334-4982 the care of Captain William H. Whitfield. Uchida, U.S. coordinator, at 408/ Email: [email protected] After 10 years in America, Manjiro was 828-7813 or [email protected]

14 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 CALENDAR/NATIONAL PACIFIC CITIZEN 3550 San Pablo Dam Rd. contemporary musical elements. This year marks the 25th Cost: $15/ Per Person RSVP: Irene Ogata at anniversary of the Nikkei Student Join the Contra Costa JACL for [email protected] or Michiko Union’s Culture Night, a key its installation luncheon at the Yoshimura at 951/784-7057 milestone for our organization Royal Palace Restaurant. The and for the Japanese American GA NATIONALO• GUIDE TO NOTABLE COMMU•NITYD EVENTS*O event features guest speaker Tim FACES Summit and Expo youth at UCLA. The performance SEE Kawakami, a sports columnist with LOS ANGELES, CA includes the renowned Kyodo the Bay Area News Group. March 20, 12 to 2 p.m. Taiko, NSU Modern hip-hop dance Info: 510/243-6688 Japanese American team, traditional Japanese Odori National Museum dance and a play about the Nikkei Asian Fashion Show and 369 E. First St. experience. Mother/Daughter Luncheon Cost: $24/first two delegates; Info: SAN LEANDRO, CA $15/ subsequent delegates; $10/ [email protected] Feb. 26, 12 noon to 3 artists p.m. FACES Summit and Expo is a Yuken Teruya’s San Leandro Library DO! dialogue for the Asian Pacific ‘Journey’ Exhibit 300 Estudillo Ave. Islander community and its SANTA MONICA, CA Cost: $20/general admission; supporters. Following the summit, Feb. 19, 5 to 7 p.m. $30/couples an expo will be held. Organizations Shoshana Wayne Gallery The San Leandro Library is proud will provide literature and food will 2525 Michigan Ave., Suite B1 to announce the Asian Fashion be offered at the tables for one-on- Shoshana Wayne Gallery opens Show and Mother/Daughter one meetings. Yuken Teruya’s fourth solo exhibit Luncheon as part of the Big Read Info: Ken Choy at “Journey,” which will run through program. Attendees will enjoy a [email protected] or March 26. Teruya connects his dim sum luncheon while watching 424/558-0997 ancestry rooted in Okinawan models walk the runway wearing tradition and relates it to the “The Betrayed” Theater Performance the latest fashions with Asian UCLA Nikkei Student American experience. The small TORRANCE, CA. influences. Union Culture Night gallery is comprised of Teruya’s Info: 510/577-3971 LOS ANGELES, CA video installation. Feb. 26, 2 p.m. Royce Hall at the University of Info: www.shoshanawayne.com Torrance Cultural Arts Center PNW California, Los Angeles or call 310/453-7535 3330 Civil Center Dr. An Intimate Dinner 340 Royce Dr. Cost: $25/person With George Takei PORTLAND, OR Feb. 19, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Produced by the Grateful Crane Ensemble, the two-act play Portland Marriot Downtown New Racially Charged deals with the real-life conflict caused by two government-issued Waterfront “loyalty” questions imposed upon Japanese Americans in 1943, 1401 SW Naito Pkwy and how these questions separated individuals into two oppos- Cost: $100/general admission; Words at Alabama ing factions. The play is directed by Darrell Kunitomi with original $1,500/tables By Jay Reeves music by Scott Nagatani. To remember the day in 1942 Associated Press when President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, which led Info: Call 323/769-5503 or visit www.gratefulcrane.com to the incarceration of 120,000 BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—Disparaging words about several ethnic and people of Japanese ancestry, racial groups were written in chalk on a University of Alabama sidewalk, Oregon Nikkei Endowment will the school said Feb. 9, the second time in less than a week officials have host famed actor and activist had to deal with such language. NCWNP ‘Making Home From War’ Book George Takei at a special The university told students and staff members of what happened Presentation fundraiser. The evening will feature in an e-mail Feb. 9, though it did not Annual Manzanar SAN FRANCISCO, CA a conversation with Takei. mention exactly what was written. A Feb. 27, 4 to 6 p.m. Pilgrimage GO! Info: Call 503/224-1458 or visit spokeswoman said words were chalked ‘As members Japanese Cultural and www.oregonnikkei.org OWENS VALLEY, CA on three sidewalks near The Quad, a April 30, 12 noon Community Center of Nor. Calif. of the UA Manzanar National Historic Site 1840 Sutter St. PSW large campus green area. U.S. Highway 395 Please join Brian Komei Dempster, The writing included the words “First community, the Each year, hundreds of students, editor of “Making Home From Super Taiko Concert Amendment,’’ and the message from majority of our teachers, community members, War,” as well as production LOS ANGELES, CA university vice president Mark Nelson clergy and former internees manager Jill Shiraki for a March 5, 2 p.m. said the school supports free-speech faculty, staff attend the Manzanar Pilgrimage. presentation and celebration of Japanese American Cultural and rights. their work. The event is sponsored by the Community Center “However, we find the use of and students Info: 415/567-5505 or Los Angeles-based Manzanar 244 S. San Pedro St. these words to be mean-spirited and Committee. Participants are [email protected] $20/general; $25/door reject the notion unacceptable,’’ Nelson wrote. advised to bring their own lunch, Former kodo soloist Shuichi that this type of drinks and snacks, as there are no Asian Heritage Celebration Hidano and Hiroyuki Hayashida The words were removed as soon as facilities to purchase food at the SAN FRANCISCO, CA will perform. Also featured in the they were discovered, and officials are behavior reflects Manzanar National Historic site. May 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. concert will be odaiko (big drum) investigating. Info: 323/662-5102 or Civil Center/Little Saigon expert, Jun Takada and the Taiko “As members of the UA community, our collective District http://blog.manzanarcommittee. Center of Los Angeles. the majority of our faculty, staff and experience.’ org Larkin and McAllister Streets Info: 213/680-3700 or students reject the notion that this The largest gathering of 626/484-5184 type of behavior reflects our collective Asian Pacific Americans ‘Hamakua Hero’ Book Signing SEE! experience,’’ Nelson wrote. “As a community, we respect and value each LIHUE, HI in the nation is back and Riverside JACL member of the UA family, and I trust that we will make decisions that Feb. 19, 11 a.m. to 12 noon bigger than ever. The Installation Luncheon Borders Kauai seventh annual Asian Heritage RIVERSIDE, CA reinforce and reflect that commitment.’’ 4303 Hala Rd. Street Celebration, produced by Feb. 26, 12 noon University president Robert Witt sent a similar e-mail to students and Bess Press introduces the first the Asian Week Foundation, will Riverside Marriott staff after a white fraternity member was accused of yelling a racial slur historic graphic novel depicting feature a Mah Jong section, more 3400 Market St. at a black student on campus recently. the life and tragic murder of Katsu arts and crafts selections and Cost: $25/person The school has refused to reveal the student’s punishment, but Goto, a Japanese immigrant and Filipino American jazz. The Riverside chapter of JACL the national president of the fraternity, Delta Tau Delta, apologized Info: www.asianfairsf.com plantation worker who rose to cordially invites you to attend our personally to the black student. annual installation lunch. The prominence as a merchant on the The Black Faculty and Staff Association at Alabama has suggested Big Island of Hawaii. The book is Contra Costa JACL program will include a special authored by Patsy Iwasaki and Installation Luncheon performance by Taiko Mix. This disciplinary action against the student including a 12-week suspension illustrated by Avery Berido. EL SOBRANTE, CA unique ensemble embraces the from fraternity activities that would allow him time to research ethnic Info: 818/246-0862 Feb. 26, 12:30 to 3 p.m. spirit of North American taiko traditions; complete community service; visit civil rights museums Royal Palace Restaurant while fusing traditional and across the South; and perform numerous other tasks. n PACIFIC CITIZEN OBITUARIES FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 15 Writer Hisaye Yamamoto Dies at 89 Hisaye Yamamoto, a pioneer in Asian American literature, passed away on Jan. 30 in Los Aotani, EdwardIN R., 83 MEMORIAMTwin Falls, ID; Jan. 31, she was Hayashi; sister Helen Takemori; Angeles at the age of 89. Honolulu, HI; Feb. 11; he served in interned in Tule Lake, Calif. 2 gc. She was the author of the Army Corps of Engineers and when World War II broke out; she later opened Aotani & Associates, worked in the family business, Utsuki, Fumi, 94 “Seventeen Syllables,” an architectural firm; his painting the Boston Café; her family later “Yoneko’s Earthquake,” “The was displayed at the Honolulu moved the family business to Twin Legend of Miss Sasagawara” Academy of Arts for the Artists of Falls to open Koto’s Café; she is and other short stories about Hawaii exhibit; survived by wife, survived by her daughter, Patty Japanese American life from Ethel; son, Dean; daughter, Dawn; Koto; son, Tom Koto Jr.; nephew, the 1930s to the present. Based sister, Jean Kami; 2 gc. Mike Koto; nieces, Laura Hall and on actual events, many of her Grace Ishida. stories explored the sometimes Fujimori, Alice F., 80 difficult relationships between Las Vegas, NV; Jan. 22; survived Nin, Stanley James Ah, 83 Issei couples and between Issei by husband, Jerome; son, Patrick; Kailua, HI; Jan 22; survived by Mar Vista, CA; Dec. 8; beloved parents and their Nisei children. daughters, Cynthia Puleo and wife, Mary; brother, Damien M; Jerri Wortman; sisters Jane Aki, sister, Rebecca M. Moniz. sister-in-law of Jack Nakamine, Born on Aug. 23, 1921 in Annie Christian, Hazel Kobayashi, Tomie, Hana; aunt of Gerald Redondo Beach, she was the Leslie Kubo and Irene Apana; 3 Ota, Dorothy, 87 (Jennie); John (Lisa) Nakamine, daughter of immigrants from Kumamoto Prefecture, Kanzo and Sae gc; 2 ggc. Lodi, CA; Feb 5; predeceased by Linda Slaten, Louise (Rodney Yamamoto. From 1942 to 1945, she was interned at Poston, Ariz. along husband, Harry; sister, Florence Soong) Nakamine, Joanne (Sam with her father and three brothers; her mother had died before the war. Honda, Sam “Osamu,” 83 Omoto; brother, Art Tomita; Sarria) Nakamine-Sarria; also In 1944, she and two brothers relocated to Massachusetts, but the death survived by sons, Dwight (Karen), survived by seven grand nieces of the oldest brother, Johnny, while serving with the 442nd Regimental Doug (Paula), David (Sue), Dana and nephews; predeceased by Combat Team in Italy brought them back to camp. In 1945, she moved (Stacy); 5 gc. siblings Mie Mizusawa, Izumi, with her family to Los Angeles. Midori Nakamine and Tamotsu. Sakuma, Mamoru, 92 Yamamoto became a published writer at the age of 14, writing for the Yoshino, Yoshito “Toe” Kashu Mainichi under the pen name “Napoleon.” While interned, she Los Angeles, CA; he served wrote for the Poston Chronicle. After the war, she was a staff member during World War II in the 100th for three years at the Los Angeles Tribune, an African American weekly. Battalion; survived by long-time In 1950, Yamamoto received one of the first John Hay Whitney companion, Shieko Aiso. Foundation Opportunity Fellowships. She married Anthony DeSoto in White Bear Lake, MN; Nov. 24; TRIBUTE 1955 and moved back to Los Angeles, where she raised five children in predeceased by parents; sister, the Eagle Rock neighborhood. Sue Bungo; he served as chapter Ben Ehara She was a frequent contributor to the Rafu Shimpo’s holiday edition president and treasurer for the January 19, 2011 and was also published in the Pacific Citizen and Hokubei Mainichi. JACL Midwest district; he was Ben Ehara, 87, Mesa, AZ; “Hisaye was my hero,” said Janice Mirikitani, former poet laureate an Army veteran; he fought for Sacramento, CA; Jan. 29; he Jan 19; survived by wife, of San Francisco and founding president of the Glide Foundation. “She redress for Japanese Americans; served in the 442nd Regimental Peggy and step family Donna made me proud to be Japanese American and a woman.” n survived by wife, Lily; daughters, Combat Team during World War Morrison (Rick), Pam Lem- Patti (Gary) Nakai and Nancy; II; he was a retired Superior ons, and their families; sister, son, Mark (Andrea); 6 gc. Court judge; he was the first Mariko Kawamoto; daughters Japanese American to be named Kathy Henmi (Alan), Jackie Flags Fly at Half-staff to Honor 442nd Hero Imabori, Mitsuo, 81 to the Sacramento County bench; Ishii (Mike), and their families; Los Angeles, CA; Feb. 2; he preceded in death by parents, nieces and nephews. is survived by his loving wife, Sadahei and Fusano; also Sachiko; sisters-in-law, Miyoko predeceased by wife, Hisako Fukunaga, Kazuyo and Akemi Sakuma; survived by son, Drew Honor Your Shinkai; nieces and nephews; also Sakuma; sister, Tonayo. Loved Ones survived by relatives in Japan. ‘In Memoriam’ is a free Satana, Tura, 72 listing that appears on a Inafuku, George Gumeyi, 87 Reno, NV; Feb. 4; she gained cult limited, space-available basis. Gardena, CA; Feb. 5; a Nisei born status for her part in the movie Tributes, which honor the memory in Hawaii; survived by wife, Ruby “Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!”; as a of your loved ones with original Miyeko Inafuku; siblings, Yoshiko child, she was interned with her copy and photos, appear in a Kamiya and Toshio (Doris); family during World War II; she is timely manner at the rate of $20/ children, Lester (Dawn), David, survived by her sisters, Amparo column inch. Dale and Ben; 2 gc. Steitz, Pamela Trujillo; daughters, For more info: Brad Kiyomura HONOLULU—In honor of the late Barney Hajiro, Gov. Neil Aber- Kalani Silverman and Jade Fall; [email protected] or crombie ordered that all Hawaii flags at all state offices as well as the Kato, Noburo, 91 6 gc. (800) 966-6157 Hawaii National Guard be flown at half-staff Feb. 12-14. Stockton, CA; Feb. 1; survived Hajiro was born on Maui Sept. 16, 1916 and passed away Jan. 21. by wife, Mutsuko; brother, Akira Takenouchi, Dorothy, 90 He was an Army private and member of the 442nd Regimental Combat (Chiyeko); sisters-in-law, Kazuko Miami, FL; Jan. 19; preceded in Team who earned him the Purple Heart and the Medal of Honor. (Norio) Hashiguchi and Ikuko; a death by her husband, Kenny; The PACIFICPACIFIC NORTHWEST’SNORTHWEST’S Abercrombie issued a Proclamation in Hajiro’s memory stating Hajiro niece and nephews. survived by daughter, Sharon ASIAN GROCERY & GIFT MARKET “epitomized the dedication, courage and perseverance exhibited during (Dan); son, Wayne (Denise); ASIAN GROCERY GIFT MARKET Koto, Matsuye “Mats,” 86 sister, Alice; brother, John World War II by all Americans of Japanese ancestry.” n

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Advertise in the A Tradition of Good Taste Since 1928 Pacific Citizen! seattle 206.624.6248 | bellevue 425.747.9012 Call Brad Kiyomura renton 425.277.1635 | beaverton 503.643.4512 800/966-6157 www.uwajimaya.com 16 FEB. 18-MAR. 3, 2011 NATIONAL NEWS PACIFIC CITIZEN Historic Structure is Found in Good Condition at Amache The water tank is immortalized in rancher’s property for many years. Before World War II era photos. he passed away, he donated the tank to the Amache Preservation Society to be restored and moved back to the camp for interpretive By Pacific Citizen Staff purposes. While the water tank was being The original water tank, often captured in dismantled, Bob Emick, another local the background of historic Amache pictures rancher found parts of the tower in a burn has been discovered near the site of the pile at the back of the property, said Barbara former World War II internment camp. Darden, of Scheuber + Darden Architects. The water tank from Camp Amache, Approximately 200 bolts, washers and located in southeast Colorado, was found in nuts that were a part of the tower were also “fair to deteriorated condition” in a refuse found, she added. pile at a nearby ranch. During WWII, the water tank was used “That we have been able to recover so as the water supply for the camp. The water much of the water tower at Amache is for the camp is supplied by four wells wonderful because above and beyond the photo: amache preservation society approximately 800 feet deep. rarity of any such find, the water tower at Researchers are hailing the discovery as a Some of the best photos from Amache was iconic,” said Bonnie Clark, rare opportunity to restore an important part Amache were taken from the an anthropology professor at the University of JA history. water tower. (Above) WRA of Denver. “It was often portrayed in Because so much of the camp looked camp photographer Joseph photographs and other historic images of exactly alike, Amache’s water tank was a McClelland’s photo. (Left) camp, including some wonderful silkscreen way for internees to orient themselves, said Architects Barbara Darden images made in the Amache silkscreen Clark. and Dick Beardmore poses in shop.” “Also most of the architecture in the front of the recovered water During WWII, the water tank was painted camps was modeled on temporary army tank. with a red and white-checkered pattern buildings, so they were not intended to be that could be seen for miles, said Clark. permanent. That means that any buildings or “Because so much of the camp looked building materials that are actually historic, site. Only the foundations of buildings are be much more accurate now that we have exactly alike, it was a way for internees to that were used in an internment camp and left. not just the tank, but elements of the tower orient themselves.” retain any integrity, are quite rare,” added Colorado Preservation, Inc. is working structure itself,” said Clark. n Like other Japanese American internment Clark. with the Park Service, the National Trust camps at war’s end, the structures at The Friends of Amache, a Colorado-based for Historic Preservation and the Friends of Amache were dismantled quickly. The water non-profit, has been working to restore and Amache to fund the restoration. For more information: tank was moved from Amache to a local rebuild part of the former internment camp “The reconstruction of the tower will www.amache.org

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