The Save Our Seniors Network Shinnenkai was held on January 27, 2024. The festive program featured Aikido Dojo by Yuki Aokusa provided a live demonstration of what he teaches. A big thank you to Ryujin Taiko, Steve, Robie and Cayli La for the entertaining and heart thumping pirating theme of taiko. They also added greatly to the Obon dancing with their accompanying drums.
Toru Nagao, a smooth moving line dancing and social dance teacher led a lively Cha Cha line dance. He also helped Elaine Fukumoto as one of the dance teachers for Bon Odori. Elaine as she did last year and each of our Kansha Obon events, was the one leading and teaching the obon dance. Her clear instructions and explanations made the Obon dancing available to all who wished to dance. Other Obon teachers were Christine Inouye and Toru Nagao.
The lunch bento was delicious with a generous portion of Chicken Teriyaki and a Salmon choice for those vegetarians who eat fish. The desserts were great and we must give a thanks to Ron Wakabayashi for the great cakes from Kings Hawaiian Bakery.
Appreciation to Rev. Ray Fukumoto, SOSN Interfaith Network Director who organized Save Our Seniors Network Shinnenkai 2024 celebration. Thank you to those that helped in the kitchen Elaine Yoko Takahashi, Margaret Leong, and Joyce Miyauchi Valenzuela. Thank you, Kathy Suzuki, and Kensaku Nakayama who handled the reception. David Monkawa, SOSN Chair who presented the program.
Special thank you to Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church for without their continuing support for SOSN this celebration would not be possible.
We believe this year’s Shinnenkai was a truly joyous occasion with participation at an all-time high, dancing, chatting, sharing and most of all having fun. To all those who came, thank you and we hope you continue to support Saving Our Seniors Network!
Aikido Dojo by Yuki Aokusa demonstration
Rev. Ray Fukumoto, SOSN Interfaith Network Director
David Monkawa, SOSN Chair presenting
Food committee Elaine Yoko Takahashi, Margaret Leong, and Joyce Miyauchi Valenzuela
Chicken Teriyaki and Salmon bento
Dessert
Thank you Ron Wakabayashi for the great cakes from Kings Hawaiian Bakery