By GWEN MURANAKA, RAFU SENIOR EDITOR
More than 120 gathered Saturday to celebrate the Valley Japanese Community Center with song, dance, and a tribute to seven decades of achievement.
VJCC was founded in 1953 by Japanese Americans returning from the World War II camps who established a small community in what is now Sun Valley.
VJCC president Christine Inouye welcomed the gathering at the Odyssey Restaurant in Granada Hills and said she is humbled to have held the position for the past six years.
Organizations affiliated with the community center include Valley Kendo Club, Valley Judo Institute, Akaoni Taiko, Chado Edosenke, Nadeshikokai (kimono club), Happy Yoga, and the Valley Buddhist Temple.
“We are a very small center. We are like a family,” Inouye said. “We are looking forward to the future. Honestly, without everyone’s help, I couldn’t do it.”
Yoshiko Kawada served as mistress of ceremonies and led a moment of silence for members who had passed away.
Past presidents Ron Nakamura, Ken Kageyama, and Lisa Hashimoto-Elardo were recognized with commendations.
Posthumous honors were awarded to Yoshihiro Sakaguchi, Ronald Doizaki, Mike Takimoto, Sadao Watanabe, Sally Hideko Norihiro, and George Goto.
Kay Oda, president of the San Fernando Valley Japanese American Community Center, said, “I think the founders of Valley Community Center would be proud. Both community centers are doing a great job promoting Japanese culture.”
Congratulatory remarks were given by Rev. George Matsubayashi, Los Angeles City Councilmember Imelda Padilla, and Consul General Kenko Sone, who later joined Marisa Kosugi in singing a folk song from Hokkaido.
Ken Kageyama and his wife June both received special recognition as active members who are more than 80 years old. Kanji Sayano, Hiroyo Sakaguchi, and Susumu Kono were also recognized.
Ken recalled cleaning blackboards and doing janitorial work for the center, and also entertaining children with magic. He has had to step back due to health issues.
Akaoni Daiko gave a thundering performance
“Thank you everyone for your support. I’m trying to hang on as long as I can,” he said.
Bando Hirohichiro performed a celebratory dance. Jazz guitarist KAY accompanied Kosugi as the gathering formed a wide circle and danced “Kyushu Tanko Bushi.”
Valley JCC is located at 8850 Lankershim Blvd., Sun Valley. The next major event for the center is their Obon festival, which takes place June 23-23.