September/October - Hawaii United Okinawa Association

www.huoa.org
September/October 2015 Issue #158 Circulation 9,820
Clear Skies Make for an Enjoyable Festival!
By Tom Yamamoto, Chair
33rd Okinawan Festival
M
other Nature revealed her “Uchinanchu Spirit of Aloha” by holding back the
heavy rains that persisted up until the day before this year’s Okinawan
Festival and replacing them with gleaming rays of sunshine. Blessed with clear skies
and rejuvenated spirits, festival goers and volunteers alike eagerly participated in the
33rd Okinawan Festival at Kapiolani Park on September 5 and 6.
hustling back and forth to retrieve and deliver items. The busy yet cohesive atmosphere of multi-generations working together celebrating the spirit of their culture
would make for an ideal episode on Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations.”
With that, on behalf of the HUOA, I want to offer my sincere gratitude to all the
volunteers who put forth so much time and energy into making this festival a huge
success! It is amazing that year after year we are able to accomplish this monumental
feat! From the preplanning stages in May, many of you have been taking on these
roles for years, and you never seem to skip a beat; you return straight back to the task
at hand.
Setting the foundation at the park a week prior to the festival is very labor intensive, and we deeply appreciate all the unloading of containers, digging trenches, laying pipes, running electrical and gas lines, building booths and backdrops, setting up
tents and equipment, and prepping the food on Friday. A special thanks to Governor
and Mrs. Ige, who took time out of their busy Friday to help prepare andadogs at
Jefferson Elementary with fellow Gaza Yonagusuku Doshi Kai members.
Governor and Mrs. Ige are flanked by HUOA President Mark Higa and President-elect Tom Yamamoto.
Permeating throughout the festival grounds was the rich Okinawan culture,
with the aroma of pig’s feet soup, champuru plates, Okinawa soba and andagi, the
rhythmical beating of the taiko drums, and of course, the appearance of “Gosamaru,”
Nakagusuku Village’s mascot, who posed for thousands of selfies. Completing the
festival were various performing artists, festival wear, products from Okinawa and
Hawaii, children’s games, plants, and exhibits that represented the past, present and
future of our Okinawan heritage and organization.
New relationships were formed and old friends reunited as our guests from
Okinawa representing performing artists, researchers, government officials, writers,
and simply festival goers intermingled with members of our local community. Mayor
Keisuke Hamada shook the hands of countless people as he and his staff proudly
represented Nakagusuku Village.
Strolling along the food booths, Heiwa Doori, Country Store, other tents, children’s
games, backstage, and even the unseen volunteers at Jefferson School, one could witness micro-communities of workers shouting out orders, running the assembly line,
Governor and Mrs. Ige worked side by side with fellow Gaza Yonagusuku Doshi Kai members at
Jefferson Elementary School Kitchen on Friday night, skewering hotdogs in preparation for Andadog
sales over two days at the Okinawan Festival.
What goes up must come down…and the Monday crew did an incredible job of
doing just that: breaking down and cleaning up what took four days to set up, while
the hospitality crew providing meals in between. We really appreciate your efforts.
We want to especially recognize Jane Serikaku and the HUOA office staff who
worked tirelessly to coordinate festival matters on top of their regular duties.
Once again, for all of your hard work and contribution in planning for and volunteering at the 33rd Okinawan Festival, Ippee Nifee Debiru!
Permit No. 659
Honolulu, HI
Hawaii United Okinawa Association
94-587 Ukee Street
Waipahu, Hawaii 96797
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage Paid
Inside This Issue
Clear Skies •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 1
President’s Message •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 2
Legacy Awards Banquet ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 3
Okinawan Festival Photos •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Pages 4-6
Festival Photo Contest Winners •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 7
Ikuyu Madin/Preserving Our Legacy/HUOA Donations •••••••••••••• Pages 8 & 9
Mensore ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 10
Mensore ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 11
Club News •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 12
Grant “Sandaa” Murata/Winter & Evening Craft Fair ••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 13
Grant Sato to Highlight Awamori Fest ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 14
WLFL Grantees Earn Konkuru/Uchinaaguchi/Okinawan Proverb ••• Page 15
HUOA Schedule of Events/HOT Schedule ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 16
Uchinanchu
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September/October 2015
September/October 2015
President’s Message
By Mark Higa
Sumiti - Making an Imprint for
Our Future Generations
H
ai Sai Hawaii United Okinawa Association Members!
While many of us observed the close of the Bon Dance season,
friends and family in Okinawa also observed Higan, marking a turning of
the seasons at the autumn equinox for harvest, but also another time to pay
respects to our ancestors. As we always look to those who came before us with
great reverence, it’s wonderful to think of the important lessons many of them
left with us and how we use these lessons to guide both what we do today and
what we do in the future! Our events celebrating the Okinawan Culture this
autumn surely have strong imprints made by our kupuna and ancestors. As we
echo these lessons, we also find what impressions our living culture can make
moving forward.
What better example of the message we share with the rest of the community than the Okinawan Festival. Version 33.0 had much build up from early
spring. And, through this year’s extreme El Nino heat mixed with three of the
largest hurricanes threats we have seen in a while, something or someone decided to part the rain clouds to bring blue skies and breezes upon us for another
weekend of celebration between our member clubs, visitors, performers from
Okinawa and thousands of attendees.
We saw many new faces and an array of new exciting twists to this year’s
Festival - Ippee Nifee Deebiru to our dedicated volunteers for constantly thinking
of ideas to keep our festival fresh and operating smoothly. For all of you behind
the scenes, who are setting up early in the week, keeping everything running
smoothly in our “back of the house” during the festival, and then coming back
on Monday to pack up, the Festival is not possible without each and every one of
you. Thank you for your dedication and for continuing to bring new friends to
“feel good” about what we are doing to share our wonderful culture!
While Young Okinawans of Hawaii provided us a lesson and official close
to Obon with Michijyune for Uukui (3rd Day of Okinawan Obon), the Autumn
Dance Matsuri—the last of the season—was held at the Hawaii Okinawa Center
on September 19. A tradition that originated to help with fundraising for our
geinou groups, the indoor bon dance draws dedicated fans from all over the
island. Meanwhile, Maui Okinawa Kenjinkai gathered the Valley Isle crowds
for the Maui Okinawan Festival at Maui Mall for a celebration of food, dance,
music and everything Okinawan! In every one of these examples, we find mentoring and teaching to our younger generations, and everyone inviting other
Uchinanchu and Uchinanchu at heart to learn and grow.
Something new you may have noticed is a visible increase in corporate
sponsorships from local businesses. Inspired by our membership’s volunteerism, individual contributions and dedication to our culture, these businesses are seeking ways to contribute as well. Mahalo to this year’s Odaiko
Gold Sponsors: Central Pacific Bank, Wilson Okamoto Corporation and WCIT
Architecture. We also extend our gratitude to our Shimedaiko Silver Sponsors:
Bank of Hawaii and RM Towill Corporation and our many other sponsors and
contributors. Your commitment to aiding our organization will ensure our programs can be sustained for our members and warabi (children).
We have been very fortunate to have witnessed inspirational performances
from Okinawa during the festival and also the recent collaboration between
Naha Daiko and Chinagu Eisa Hawaii at the Kansha II performances! A big
Uchinanchu
congratulations to those of you in our performing arts community for your
attaining Shinjinsho and Shihan in your particular art forms. Grant Sandaa
Murata Sensei of Afuso Ryu Choichi Kai was also bestowed this year with the
honor of being the first foreign judge for Ryukyu Shimpo’s Koten Sanshin
Konkuru. Chibariyo to all our performers, and to the many individuals who have
focused your studies on Okinawan culture through grants and scholarships. As
you further and share your knowledge, the dedication you all have will continue
to have a multi-fold effect on the many around you.
In October, 46 participants of the HUOA Study Tour will join Governor
Ige and over 25 Hawaii government and business representatives in Okinawa
for the Hawaii-Okinawa Sister State 30th Anniversary Celebration in Okinawa.
Okinawa has planned a celebration that will be similar to the festivities held
here in July, but will tie in with the always exhilarating Naha Matsuri! The
Study Tour group is made up of first timers as well as many who have been to
Okinawa multiple times. Members are in store for a unique mix of sightseeing,
learning and unique cultural experiences. Not only will the tour focus on history and traditions, but we will also observe ways in which Okinawa continues to
participate at the highest levels of research and technology at the global stage!
Both the Study Tour and Sister State Events represent a renewal of traditions
and a forging of new ideas and friendships.
The spirit and energy of our members never wane! The examples above
show something a little different for everyone. However, a common thread is
the feeling of gratitude for what so many have provided us, and the fire we each
have to continue to making imprints. Big or small, each will have a great effect
on more than just ourselves! Let’s continue to live these same lessons in HUOA
and our Member Clubs: expressing thanks to our elders and senpai, and providing every opportunity for our youth to engage, be inspired and enriched through
programs, events and travel.
LOST AND FOU ND AT
O KI NAWAN FESTIVAL
Did you lose your sunglasses, car keys, camera, twoway mirror? Or, did you purchase Okinawan items at
Heiwa Dori and forget your package somewhere? Bon
Dance towels? Festival t-shirt?
We have a wide collection of items that were turned
in by wonderful folks who found these and many other
items and turned them in to Lost and Found.
Please come to the Hawaii Okinawa Center to claim
your precious belongings.
Office hours: M-F 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Phone: 676-5400.
Legacy Banquet Seating Reservation Form
Name: _________________________________________ CompaNy/orgaNizatioN Name:___________________________________
mailiNg address:_________________________________________________________//____________________________________________________
Street
City
Zip Code
E-mail Address
phoNe No: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Day
Evening
please reserve the followiNg:
Platinum Table of (10)
Seats
#______@ $10,000 = $ ________
• Premium Seating
• Special Gift for guests
• Complimentary Wine • Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Valet)
• Program Acknowledgement and other publicity with Company logo.
(Includes a half page ad space in newsletter - UCHINANCHU nov/dec issue)
Gold Table of (10) Seats
#______@$5,000 = $ ________
• Premium Seating
• Special Favor for guests
• Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Self)
• Program Acknowledgement and other publicity. (Includes a quarter ad
space in newsletter - UCHINANCHU nov/dec issue)
Cell/Mobile
Silver Table of (10) Seats
#______@ $3,000
• Premium Seating
• Program Acknowledgement
• Complimentary Sheraton Parking (Self)
= $ _______
Bronze Table of (10) seats
= $ _______
• Preferred Seating
#______@ $1,500
• Program Acknowledgement
Individual Seating
#______@
$125
I would like to make a donation of:
= $ _______
$ _______
TOTAL
$ _______
Please list guests’ names below:
SAVE THE DATE
Installation Luncheon and
Recognition of Uchinanchu of
the Year Honorees
Hawaii Okinawa Center
Saturday, January 16, 2016
Registration/Doors open: 9:30 a.m.
Call to Celebration: 10:30 a.m.
Cost: $38.00
For tickets, call your club president or HUOA at 676-5400 or
email: [email protected]
UCHINANCHU
Uchinanchu is the newsletter of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association.
Although subject to change, issues will be published bi-monthly. Volunteer
writers are welcome. Send your name, address and telephone number to
Uchinanchu Newsletter, Hawaii United Okinawa Association, 94-587 Ukee
St., Waipahu, Hawaii 96797. E-mail articles to [email protected]. Uchinanchu
reserves the right to edit all material for clarity and accuracy.
HUOA President • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mark Higa
Executive Director • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Jane F. Serikaku
Editorial/Production Services • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • MBFT Media: Arnold Hiura,
Eloise Hiura and Hilma Fujimoto
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Uchinanchu reaches over 9,700 households. For advertising rates and
more information, contact us at:
Tel: (808) 676-5400 – Email: [email protected] – www.huoa.org
I am interested in placing an ad in the Luncheon Program Booklet.
I am interested in donating a Silent Auction item.
Table Sponsor: ___________________________________
Veg.
A member of our committee will be in contact with you. Please visit our website at
Meal
1•
_________________________________________
www.huoa.org for additional information on Advertising and Silent Auction donations.
2•
_________________________________________ A reservation/donation receipt will be mailed to you. Check-in will be at the Reception Table.
3•
_________________________________________
4•
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5•
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7•
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9•
_________________________________________
10 •
_________________________________________
Payment InformatIon
Enclosed is my check made payable to the:
Hawaii United Okinawa Assn. (HUOA) for:
Mailing Address:
94-587 Ukee St. Waipahu, Hawaii 96797
$ ____________
Charge Information - Please charge the costs above to:
VISA MC Amex
Discover
Card No: ______________________________________Exp Date: __________________________
Name of Cardholder: _____________________________________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________________________________________
Aloha Attire
The favor of a response is requested by October 20, 2015.
For additional information, please contact (808) 676-5400 or [email protected]
For a vegetarian meal option check the box
before name. If
there are any dietary requests, please contact our office before The Hawaii United Okinawa Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. A portion of your ticket/table cost is
October 20, 2015.
tax deductible as a charitable contribution.
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Uchinanchu
September/October 2015
September/October 2015
Festival Unsung Heroes: Arakaki
Ohana Reefer Crew
Uchinanchu
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Festival Booth Decorating
Contest Winners:
Mahalo to the Arakaki Ohana Reefer Crew for 29 years of service at our
Okinawan Festival. This lengthy commitment began back in the third year of the
Okinawan Festival, when Billy Tokuda asked Richard Arakaki to help with the
reefer duties. The next year, Richard began chairing the “Reefer” crew with the
support of the Arakaki, Lau, Nakahodo and Nagamine families, who faithfully
supported their Uncle Richard. Thus the Arakaki Ohana Reefer crew began,
stacking the refrigerated goods on Friday and issuing the necessary ingredients
requested by the many booth chairs in charge of making the ono pigs feet soup,
yaki soba, andadog, andagi, Okinawa soba, yakitori and more on Saturday and Sunday.
Each year, Richard’s niece Lori Lau prints t-shirts for the entire reefer crew. If
you saw Richard’s t-shirt you would know exactly who the “Boss of the Reefer” is. Richard feels honored that he is called on each year to contribute his services
to HUOA with the help of his circle of families, and HUOA is very appreciative
of the tremendous help that they provide.
Non-Food Tents: Capital Campaign
(with Mark Higa – Shari Tamashiro)
Festooned with teru teru dolls and cranes – Capital came in first with Heiwa Dori and
Cultural Tent a very close second.
Food Booth: Andagi
(with Mark Higa – Kent Billings and Mavis Gushiken)
Booth was artistically designed with fresh flowers and images of the SHISAA
Clockwise, from bottom left: Richard Arakaki, Liz Arakaki, Patricia Lau, Mark Arakaki, John Arakaki, Michael Arakaki,
Len Oyama, Jase Arakaki, Edward Nagamine, and Franklin Arakaki. There are many other family members not pictured that have helped Richard over the years. Not pictured are: Douglas Arakaki, Ardis Arakaki, Lauren Arakaki, Gay
Arakaki, Wesley Nakahodo, Gina Nakahodo, Gary Hasegawa, Claire Hasegawa, Joseph Lau, Jr., Lori Lau, Myra
Nagamine, and Lillian Masaki.
Kobudo Taiko Meets
Gosamaru
Leader Troy Sakihara and Big Island’s Hui
Okinawa Kobudo Taiko group take a photo op
with Nakagusuku mascot, “Gosamaru.” (L-R): Jack
Musick, Cody Yamaguchi, Lee Watanabe, Troy
Sakihara, Liberty Vilches, Glenn Shiigi, Krystle
Koshiyama, Kathy Pung, and Jane Yanabu.
HOT Video Crew
Mahalo to our dedicated hard working Hawaii
Okinawa Today (HOT TV) crew who spent hours in
the very hot sun attempting to capture the spirit of
Uchinanchu through all the fantastic performances
on stage. Captain Steve Arashiro reported that
approximately 24 volunteers are needed each
day. We are able to enjoy their labor of love on
Olelo Community Chanel NATV 53 every Saturday
at 7 p.m. and Thursday at 5 p.m. (Missing from
photo: Ron Miyashiro)
Cherry Blossom Festival Court
Visits Okinawan Festival
Mahalo to Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce
(HJJCC) advisor George Takase for engaging our lovely Cherry
Blossom Queen and her court to grace our stage at the Opening
Ceremonies, learn how to drop our famous andagi, and help with
the Children’s Games. Mahalo also to Gina Maeda-Caluya, HJJCC’s VP of Community
Development, who coordinated the Saturday Hospitality Tent
along with HJJCC volunteers.
Bon Dance Guests
Surprise Bon Dancers at Okinawan Festival included U.S.
Congressman Mark Takai, Consul General Yasushi Misawa and
Mrs. Yoko Misawa.
Left to Right: Queen Kimberly Takata, 1st Princess/Miss Congeniality Rosalei Chinen,
Princess Celina Quach, Princess Jessica Kaneshiro, Miss Popularity Heather Miura
Left to Right: Miss Popularity Heather Miura, 1st Princess/Miss Congeniality Rosalei
Chinen, Princess Celina Quach, Queen Kimberly Takata, Princess Jessica Kaneshiro
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Uchinanchu
September/October 2015
September/October 2015
Uchinanchu
2015 Okinawan Festival Photo Contest Winners
Ohana Winner
Photographer: Tracie Akiyama Tonouchi
Title: Help Sister Smile
Grand Prize
Photographer: Karli Ann Lum
Title: Practice
makes Perfect
Description: Senjukai Hawaii
performers
practice
backstage before
performing.
Photo by Chad Gibo
Culture Winner
Photographer: Stan Sakai
Title: Nakagusuku
Gosamaru Dancer
Description: One
of the talented
Nakagusuku
Gosamaru Drum
dancers from
Okinawa who
performed on
Sunday.
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Ikuyu Madin
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Uchinanchu
September/October 2015
September/October 2015
Bridging from Generation to Generation - For Our Children!
Our Supporters
A Capital Campaign of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association
Jocelyn Ige
Ralph & Jean Ige
Richard Iha, Jr.
Yuriko Inamine
Jon Itomura
Arthur Kaneshiro
The Family of Richard and
Kiyoko Kuba - Lui, Chung,
Morikami, Kuba-Hori
Mavis Masaki
Dwight T. Matsuda
Robert T. Matsuda
Sally & Hisashi Matsumoto
Guy Miyashiro
Lawrence & Alice Morisako
Mark Mugiishi
Carol & Jackson Nakasone
Mitsuko Toguchi Nakasone
UCHINANCHU
Ippee Nifee Deebiru... Mahalo!
In Memory of Nobuo Takeno by June Takeno and Family
Norman & Renette Nakasone
Yoshimori Oshiro
Yasuo and Chiyo Sadoyama
The Family of Akira & Jane
Sakima
Jane Serikaku
Chris & Shiori Shimabukuro
Herbert & Lillian Shimabukuro
Cyrus & Ann Tamashiro
George & Emeline Tamashiro
Charles T. Toguchi
Linda Torigoe
Darryl Uezu
Maurice & Jean Yamasato
Kenneth & Helen Yanamura
Bob Yonahara
Harold & Elsie Yonamine
Donations listed below were received from August 1, 2015 to September 15, 2015.
In Memory of Warren T. Higa by
Kitanakagusuku Sonjin Kai
In Memory of Robert Miyahira by Hui O
Laulima
In Memory of Harry Seisho Nakasone by
Mitsuko Toguchi Nakasone
In Memory of Mrs. Norma Miyoko Tamashiro
by Kitanakagusuku Sonjin Kai
In Honor of Sanra & Ushi Kaneshiro:
Brian Alos
Colin Alos Insurance & Financial Services, Inc.
Shirley Alos
Donald & Carol Esperitu
Keith Fukuhara
John & Jane Fukuhara
Cathy Iha
Helen Kaneshiro
Jerry & Sharon Kaneshiro
Sandra Kaneshiro
Warren & Lou-Ellen Kaneshiro
Tammy Namihira
June Newmann
Our list of donors reflects contributions from August 1, 2015 to September 15, 2015.
Dick S. Tawata
The Hawaii United Okinawa Association would like to acknowledge the following individuals, families, organizations and companies
who have donated or pledged to our Campaign. Since our last report, we received a special gift from the Kaneshiro Family in honor of Sanri
and Ushi Kaneshiro and 500,000¥ from the Okinawan Prefectural Assembly. A special mahalo to those who visited us at our Capital Tent at
the Okinawan Festival.
Our 200 FOR 2M CAMPAIGN continues to grow, we would like to welcome Lawrence and Alice Morisako and Mitsuko Toguchi
Nakasone to our 46-member family. The HUOA is truly grateful for your support and the confidence you have displayed through your generous
donations and humbly ask for your continued support. Magukuru Kara Ippee Nifee Deebiru – from our hearts, thank you very much.
Anonymous
Aloha Tofu Inc. (2)
Arashiro Ohana
Gale Kuba
Thomas & Miyoko Hata
Tomiko Komoto & Takeko Fontenot
Lawrence & Alice Morisako
Mildred Sachiko Nakama
Carol & Jackson Nakasone
Okinawa Prefectural Assembly
Mr. & Mrs. Mitsuo Oshiro
Mark & Frances Perkins
Takeo & Betty Y. Shimabukuro
Tatsumi Yamashiro
The Benevity Community Impact Fund
matching for Jason Tokuda
The U.S. Charitable Gift Trust on behalf of
the Yoshimori Oshiro Private Foundation
In Memory of Shingo & Ushi Higa and
Charles M. & Florence C. Miyashiro by
Stanley & Christine Higa
The Hawaii United Okinawa Association is extremely grateful to the over 740 friends that have responded with a generous gift to our current
Campaign. We look forward to hearing from many more of you in the coming months. These tax-deductible donations allow us to continue
to educate and share our Okinawan culture with the people of Hawaii, creating our “imprint” to Hawaii’s community. As of September 15,
2015 we collected $101,357. Ippee Nifee Deebiru!
Sakae Nakata
(Listed Members have either donated or pledged $10,000 or more to our current campaign starting July 1, 2014.)
Aloha Tofu Inc., Paul Uyehara
Nancy Akamine Arizumi, Claire
Matsumoto, Wilma Ogimi
Arashiro Ohana
George Bartels, Jr. & Doreen
Bartels
Dr. Glenn M. & Lucille K.
Biven
Ford & Daneil Chinen
Dr. Doris Ching
Alton Chung
Furugen Family Ltd.
Partnership
Ginowan Club
Christine & Stanley Higa
Laverne Higa
Mark & Hanae Higa
Dr. Kyoko Hijirida
Preserving Our Legacy
2014 to 2015–Annual Giving Program
CONTRIBUTOR ($100 TO $249)
Michael Koei Miyashiro
Ikuyu Madin Kai Members Of The 200 For 2M Campaign
Clyde & Drezleen Oshiro
Myra Oshiro
Rosemary Shinsato
Natsuko Kaneshiro Tamashiro
Yukio & Sadako Tokuda
Tom & Lynne Yamamoto
Helen Yamamoto
Lee & Lisa Yamamoto
2015 Okinawan Festival:
Anonymous
Lani Tamanaha Broadbent
Lillian Y. Gima
Nora Goya
Jayne Harada
Ken Kato
Karen K. Kosasa
Debra Kay McKee
Takafumi Okonogi
Robert Uehara
Shigehiko Shiramizu
Uchinanchu
FRIEND (DONATIONS UP TO $99)
Marjorie Okuhara
Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Uyezu
Uchinanchu is our voice — the voice of the Hawaii United Okinawa Association,
its members, and the “home” we all built together, the Hawaii Okinawa Center. By
sharing information and experiences, Uchinanchu keeps us connected as a family,
dedicated to preserving, sharing and perpetuating our Okinawan cultural heritage.
Every dollar donated — along with the valuable income from advertising - helps
offset the cost of publishing Uchinanchu. HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru
to the following donors. Mahalo for keeping Uchinanchu alive and thriving.
Uchinanchu Newsletter Donors August 1 to September 15, 2015.
HUOA DONATIONS
August 1 to September 15, 2015
HUOA sends a sincere ippee nifee deebiru to the
following donors:
James K. & Chun Tsu Akamine
Mayor Keisuke Hamada-Nakagusuku
Village Office
Jeanette Higa
Stella & Kenny Shimabukuro
Helen Yanamura
HUOA CORPORATE SPONSOR
SILVER
R. M. Towill Corp.
HUOA VIDEO
Jane M. Nakasone
June Tamashiro
OKINAWAN FESTIVAL
DONATION
Mayor Keisuke HamadaNakagusuku Village Office
Lift Installed at Higa Building
O
ur generous donor, Mac Yonamine, was the first person to ride up and down
on the lift that he gifted to the HUOA. Mac’s lift will make it easier for many
folks—challenged by bad knees or other reasons—to get to the second floor of the Higa
Building. We wish to extend a very special ippee nifee deebiru and mahalo to Mac!
Satoshi & Dina Ajifu
James Akamine
Hatsue Asato
Roy C. Ashitomi
Kimiko Y. Ishiki
Mildred Kataoka
Robert Kinjo
IMO of Patsy Yonamine & In
Honor of Mac Yonamine by
Seizen and Helen Maeshiro
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9
10
Uchinanchu
September/October 2015
September/October 2015
Uchinanchu
11
Mensore continued from Page 10
Mensore
welcome!
OTS-VIP Group
Seven former HUOA Presidents gathered to greet the OTS-VIP group led by Mr. Ichiro Oyadomari, CEO of Japan Transocean Air Co.,
Ltd. We were also honored to reacquaint ourselves with Ms. Hiroko Sho who was the first female Vice Governor of Okinawa.
‘Pigs from the Sea’ Team
Producer Yoshimitsu Hamabata of the fantastic musical drama
production of “Pigs from the Sea” was on a mission to interview
and talk story with people who experienced or have recollections
of their parents' experiences of Hawaii Uchinanchu's effort to help
Okinawa recover from the devastation due to the war.
Mahalo to all of you who took the time to meet with the team
before the festival and during the festival. They were extremely
appreciative of everyone's willingness to share their stories.
Aloha Kumejima
Kumejima Mayor Haruo Ota and his wife Hiromi along with 13 other special folks enjoyed a fantastic potluck luncheon with Hawaii’s Kumejimaconnected people—including some former HUOA presidents and HUOA executive council members—after their OTEC conference in Kona. Mayor Ota
encourages all Hawaii Uchinanchu to visit their beautiful island of Kumejima.
Kinryoen Group
It was a pleasure to be in the midst of presidents and managing directors from
hotels and companies in Yaeyama, Ishigaki and the main island of Okinawa,
including President Takashi Fukuoka of Kinki Nippon Tourist Okinawa, Inc.
Pigs From The Sea Team: Chisako Oshiro, translator; Keifuku
Jyanamoto, researcher and playwrite; and
Yoshimitsu Hamabata, producer.
Miyakojima Students
Okinawa Yuibuyo
President Kiyoshi Miyagi is surrounded by his Okinawa Yuibuyo Suishin Kyogikai who performed their modern Okinawan “line dancing” and engaged
everyone to join in.
Mensore continued on Page 11
Yaese Students
Welcome to 12 enthusiastic students from Yaese Town!
Miyakojima students enjoyed several days exploring Oahu
before heading for Maui where Maui Okinawa Kenjin
Kai members provided homestay experiences and other
exciting events and study sessions.
Uchinanchu
12
September/October 2015
Congratulations Sandaa Sensei
Uchinanchu 2015 is Coming!
I
n 2013, HUOA launched the inaugural edition of the
annual Uchinanchu magazine, a compilation of the very
best, full-color images from the entire year’s activities. It
became an instant hit.
W
Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai
Cleans Up
I
ppee nifee deebiru to the faithful members of Chatan-Kadena Chojin Kai who
arrived at the HOC at 7 a.m. to scrub all the woks, cure them, and get them ready
for festival andagi, andadog, champuru cooking.
This yearly album captures the spirit and energy of our
HUOA members, from installation of officers and Uchinanchu
of the Year celebrations, through shinnen enkai parties,
community outreach projects, craft fairs, Okinawan Festival,
sports, recitals, concerts and club picnics, just to name a few
highlights. This beautifully produced memory book will make
a great keepsake or gift.
Uchinanchu 2015 is coming soon. Cost is $10 an issue. Clubs
should inquire about discounts for orders of 25 or more. Clubs
and companies can also show their support by placing a fullcolor ad in Uchinanchu 2015. Proceeds benefit the HUOA.
For information, contact Jane Serikaku at jserikaku@
hawaii.rr.com or call 676-5400.
September/October 2015
Front Row (L-R): Gaye Oshiro, Joel Itomura, Darlene Itomura, Allison Yanagi, Gary Jitchaku, Donne
Soga, and Cindy Asato. Second Row (L-R): Jenny Matsumura, Sandy Yanagi, JoAnn Takamiyashiro,
Dwight Ikehara, Laura Ajimine, Sharon Vidal, Aaron Uyema, Cindy Kikuyama, Susan Kikuyama,
and Jon Itomura. Not pictured, but working side by side with Chatan-Kadena members, were HUOA
President Mark Higa and President-elect Tom Yamamoto.
Okinawa City-Goeku Son
Clean-up Crew
H
ardworking Goekuans take a short break from cleaning the Hawaii Okinawa
Center on August 8, 2015, in order to get this photo taken. Pictured are
Okinawa City-Goeku Son members: Front Row (L-R): Gwen Fukuhara, Marissa
Fukuhara, Christine Talkington Chung, Judith Morikami, Karen Kuba-Hori, Mae
Chung, Copeland Talkington, Janise Oshiro, and Chloe Mae Talkington. Back Row
(L-R): Craig Fukuhara, Carole Arakaki, Yvonne Lui, and Thomas Talkington.
hat an honor! Hawaii’s own
Grant “Sandaa” Murata Sensei
was selected to be one of the esteemed
judges for this year’s Ryukyu performing arts Konku-ru, a sanshin proficiency
test which is sponsored annually by
Okinawa’s Ryukyu Shimpo newspaper.
This year marks the 50th anniversary
of the proficiency test in the Afuso style
of uta/sanshin and this is the first time
that anyone from outside of Okinawa
has been invited to be a judge. We are all
proud of Sandaa sensei paving the way
for other possible “foreigners” to receive
such a distinguished honor, and elated
and proudest is Sandaa sensei’s Master
Sensei Choichi Terukina who himself
was designated as a National Living
Treasure of Japan.
Sandaa sensei has taught uta/sanshin
for many years and is extremely proud
of his 20+ students who have passed the
Konku-ru test and six who have already
Grant “Sandaa” Sensei with his Master Sensei Choichi Terukina of Okinawa.
Uchinanchu
13
received their teaching certification. He
humbly extends his appreciation and
heartfelt gratitude to all his students
and supporters who believed in him and
supported him and his family throughout the years.
There’s a touching story, “Confessions of
a Sanshin Sensei,” in the August 21 issue
of the Hawaii Herald about a young yonsei who learned uta/sanshin from Henry
Masatada Higa Sensei. Learning uta/
sanshin in the midst of Issei and some
Nisei students, Sandaa Sensei began his
quest to learn Japanese and Uchinaaguchi.
It’s amazing how freely he can converse
with visitors from Okinawa… all in
Uchinaaguchi.
HUOA extends its sincerest congratulations to Grant “Sandaa” Murata sensei
and ippee nifee deebiru for always being willing to support our programs and events
by engaging your students to perform or
do jikata for our dance performances.
14
Uchinanchu
September/October 2015
Chef Grant Sato to Highlight
14th Annual Awamori Fest
By Jodie Ching
O
n Thursday, December 3, Tamagusuku Ryu Senju Kai Frances Nakachi Ryubu
Dojo will present its 14th Annual Awamori Fest, at one of Honolulu’s popular
gathering places, the Pagoda Restaurant in the International Room from 6 p.m. to
9 p.m. This fundraiser is a great opportunity to enjoy awamori, soju, sake, and wine,
while experiencing great cultural music and dance. Funds from this event will help
students further their training by providing scholarships for travel to Okinawa and
to train and participate in certification exams, as well as sharing the culture abroad.
Also, funds will help with the purchase of costumes and props and other costs
related to performance and education.
The highlight this year will
be Chef Grant Sato’s cooking
demonstration and signing of
his book, An Okinawan Kitchen.
His devotion to his grandmother, Jeanette Akamine, who
taught and inspired him to create Okinawan cuisine, was the
seed that eventually grew into
a book of traditional and contemporary food, art and culture. Awamori Fest is the perfect opportunity to pick up this
unique holiday gift personalized
by Chef Sato himself.
Awamori Fest will feature a
silent auction, games, entertainment, good food with friends
and family while supporting
the perpetuation of our beautiful Okinawan culture through
dance. Tamagusuku Ryu Senju
Kai Hawaii counts on Awamori
Fest as a major fundraiser to continue to share their dance with various communities at home in Hawaii and abroad.
This year, two members were able to attain certifications in Okinawa: Ainoa Miyashiro
received his Shinjinsho (Newcomer's certification) and Eric Kobayashi receive his
Yuushuusho (Certificate of Excellence).
Please come and enjoy a holiday celebration with Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai
Hawaii Frances Nakachi Ryubu Dojo!
Awamori Fest!
Join us at the
Thursday, December 3, 2015
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Pagoda Restaurant, International Room
1525 Rycroft Street
•Great cultural experience with live Okinawan Music
and Dance • Enjoy Awamori, Soju, Wine and Sake
•Invite your friends and family tocelebrate the holidays
Okagesamade, because of you, Tamagusuku Ryu Senjukai Frances
Nakachi Ryubu Dojo is able to share our rich Okinawan culture here
in Hawaii for over 18 years. The proceeds from the event will help
fund our recitals, purchase costumes and most of all, to provide
scholarships to students who are interested in furthering their skills
by taking the certification test in Okinawa.
Thank you for taking the time during this busy holiday season to join us!
Please RSVP by Friday, November 20, 2015
Name:
Contact info:
Ticket Order: No of tickets
x $60 =
(No refunds for no-shows or cancellation. All tickets held at
Will Call with payment.) *We will confirm by contact info provided.
Make check payable to: Senjukai Hawaii Mail to: Senjukai Hawaii,
P.O. Box 10446, Honolulu, HI. 96816. Email: [email protected]
For more info call Senjukai Hawaii at 808-754-8828
Ryukyu Soul Project
Go Nakasone, lead singer Yoko Hizuki, and Yuko Deguchi (missing: Mark Reki
Sekitani and Naoe Ritchie Sutta)
September/October 2015
Omedetoo gozaimasu! Eric Kobayashi and Naomi Oshiro
Uchinanchu
15
A
wonderful accomplishment! The HUOA heartily congratulates 2015 with
Love from Lorraine awardees, Eric Kobayashi (buyo) and Naomi Oshiro
(music). Eric and Naomi traveled to Okinawa and competed in the Ryukyu Shimpo
Newspaper Company’s Performing Arts Konkuuru and successfully attained their
Yuushuushoo and Shinjinshoo, respectively.
Three years ago, Eric competed
in the konkuru and received the
Shinjinsho Award. With his diligent study and instructor Frances
Nakachi Sensei’s intense training,
Eric journeyed once again to further his study under the founding
Masters of the Tamagusuku Ryu
Senju Kai, Yoshiko Tanita Sensei
and Mieko Kinjo Sensei, who
are also Frances Sensei’s instructors. There is a noticeable difference in the intensity and difficulty between the shinjinshoo level
and the required dances at the
Yuushuushoo level.
Naomi had been exposed to the
Okinawan culture from a young
age. However, with a personal
goal to attend the next Worldwide
Uchinanchu Festival (Taikai) in
2016, Naomi began to study about
Okinawa by reading books, taking Okinawan language classes,
and learning to play the sanshin.
Naomi became an avid member of
the Afuso Ryu Gensei Kai Hawaii
Shibu and continued her diligent study under Grant “Sandaa”
Eric Kobayashi in performance of female classical dance,
Murata Sensei. Her horizons
“Nufwabushi.”
expanded even more and ultimately led to training for the konkuru competition this summer. Naomi successfully
attaining the Shinjinsho (Newcomer’s Award).
The HUOA extends its best wishes for both Eric Kobayashi and Naomi Oshiro’s
2015 Calendar of Events
Naomi Oshiro in front of the Ryuku Shimpo building.
continued success in all of their future endeavors and applaud their respective
Sensei for their efforts to preserve, perpetuate and promote the Okinawan culture
especially in Hawaii.
Nakagusuku Gosamaru Daiko
Forty-two Nakagusuku Gosamaru Daiko drummers along with Shishimai and mascot Gosamaru added excitement to our Okinawan Festival!
The year at a glance!
Oct. 7-9
Hawaii-Okinawa Sister State 30th Anniversary Celebration in Okinawa
Oct. 7-18
HUOA Study Tour to Okinawa with President Mark Higa
Nov. 1
Legacy Awards Banquet – Sheraton Waikiki Hotel
Nov. 28, 29
Winter Craft Fair – HOC
Dec. 9
“Evening In Waipio” Craft Fair – HOC
Jan. 16
HUOA Installation Banquet & Recognition of
Uchinanchu of the Year Honorees
Check HUOA website – www.huoa.org for more information.
Uchinaa-guchi (Okinawan language)
Word of the Month
Okinawan Proverb
Selected by the Uchinaaguchi Class Members with
Hijirida Sensei
September
Proverb of the month:
tuku1, n. [toku] Goodness; moral excellence;
virtue; a good quality; grace. Warabi
ya naraashimun
わらび
や
October
Meaning:
Children do as they are taught, so teach them well.
achi-kookoo, adv. Piping hot; steaming hot;
steaming. See also hijuruukoo-koo.
(Excerpted, with permission, from the Okinawan-English Wordbook, by Mitsugu
Sakihara, edited by Stewart Curry, University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, 2006)
ならーしむん
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Children are our future. Teach them well so that they
will also maintain the right path for the generations
that follow.
October 2015
10 Okinawan Festival Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC
12 Administration Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC
Executive Council meeting, 8pm, HOC
24 Okinawan Festival Food & General Committee meeting, 7pm
November 2015
1 Legacy Awards Luncheon; Sheraton Waikiki
11 Administration Committee meeting, 7pm, HOC
Executive Council meeting, 8pm, HOC
25 Board of Directors meeting, 7pm, HOC
26 THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY-HOC Office Closed
27 Winter Craft Fair Set-up
28-29 Winter Craft Fair; Sat 9am-3pm &Sun 9am-2pm, HOC
December 2015
8Evening Craft Set-up
9 Evening Craft Fair; 5:30-9pm, HOC
14 Administration Committee meeting, HOC, 7pm
Executive Council meeting, HOC, 8pm
25 CHRISTMAS DAY-HOC Office Closed
Classes • Other Meetings at Hawaii Okinawa Center:
HUOA Sanshin: every Thursday, 7pm*
Ichigo Ichi E: 1st & 3rd Tuesday, 7pm*
Ikebana: 3rd Wednesday, 7pm*
Karaoke nite: 3rd Tuesday, 6:30pm*
Kobudo Taiko: every Monday, 7pm, contact Calvin Nakama 224-7374
Monday Crafters: every Monday, 9am*
Okinawan Genealogical Society mtg: 3rd Saturday, 9am*
Uchinaaguchi: every 2nd Tuesday, 1pm*; every 4th Thursday, 7pm*
*for more information, please call 676-5400
**Subject to Change** (entries as of 9/10/15)
In 2015 our shows premiere on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and repeat the following Thursday at 5 p.m. every week on Olelo Community Media Channel
NATV 53. All Olelo shows are also streamed live on the Internet at www.
olelo.org. Some of our latest shows are available on-demand on the same
website at: What’s On; OleloNet Video On Demand; then search for keyword - Okinawa.
NOTE that in 2016 our shows will return to premiering only twice a month. Details to follow.
Nov 7, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 12, Thurs., 5 pm - Beiju and Kajimaya birthday
celebrations by the Okinawa Nenchosa Club on August 14, 2014.
Nov 14, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 19, Thurs., 5 pm - Part One of “Drums of Hope”
connecting Hawaii, Okinawa and Fukushima – all people of the sea. A
production directed by Daiichi Hirata and performed at the Hawaii Okinawa
Center on July 12, 2015.
Nov 21, Sat., 7 pm & Nov 26, Thurs., 5 pm - Hawaii Okinawa Today
“Thanksgiving Special” highlighting the volunteers of the Hawaii United
Okinawa Association.
Nov 28, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 3, Thurs., 5 pm - Highlights of the 1983 Okinawan
Festival at McCoy Pavilion, Ala Moana Beach Park.
Dec 5, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 10, Thurs., 5 pm - Part Two of “Drums of Hope”
connecting Hawaii, Okinawa and Fukushima – all people of the sea. A
production directed by Daiichi Hirata and performed at the Hawaii Okinawa
Center on July 12, 2015.
Dec 12, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 17, Thurs., 5 pm - Part Two of Sadao China Anniversary
Recital on March 29, 2015 in Okinawa.
Dec 19, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 24, Thurs., 5 pm - 80th Anniversary and History of
the Rinzai Zen Mission on Maui.
Dec 26, Sat., 7 pm & Dec 31, Thurs., 5 pm - Highlights of the 1984 Okinawan
Festival at McCoy Pavilion, Ala Moana Beach Park.
As the exclusive caterers to the Legacy Ballroom at the Hawaii Okinawa Center,
we enhance the beauty of the venue with a colorful menu for your guests to enjoy.
Choose from an assortment of menus that can be customized to fit your needs and budget.
Popular Hawaiian & Local Style menus • Prime Rib Buffets
Create your own menu for any occasion! • Party Platters for pick-up • Onsite deliveries
Discounts available for HUOA Club Members.
Call
677-7744 or visit www.acateredexperience.com for menus and more information.