The North American Post 2025 New Year's Special Bilingual Edition by シアトル日本語情報誌『ソイソース』

▲By Ronan, 8 years old

▲By Eleanor, 12 years old

▲By Mie 11 years old

"Year of the Snake" by Aki Sogabe

▲By Maddie, 12 years old

NEW YEAR'S GREETINGS

The North American Post January 1, 2025, Vol. 79, Issue 24

Publisher: General Manager

Editor:

Japanese Editor:

Accounting:

Advertising:

Contributors: Japanese:

Proofreaders: Cover Art:

Tomio Moriguchi

Bruce Rutledge

Barbara Mizoguchi

barbara@napost.com

Hikari Kono

hikari@napost.com

Mie Ohno

Ako Mizoe

Lev Kellendy and Peter Cesser

Princeton Lok and WA DECA

Gail Nomura

Eric Uyeji

Mikiko Amagai

Shihou Sasaki

Geraldine Shu

Aki Sogabe

Published by: North American Post Publishing, Inc. 519 6th Ave S, Suite 200, Seattle WA 98104 (206)519-5469 (legal address NOT for mail)

CORRECTION:

In the last NAP issue, dated December 13, on Page 1, the second line is to be corrected to “Tomozawa” (not Tomogawa). On Page 2, first column, the second paragraph is to be corrected that “11 cities were planned” (not “later announced an 11th host – Seattle”). In the second column, disregard “exemption of tickets from sales tax”. On Page 5, fourth column toward the end is to be corrected to “Tomozawa”. Our apologies to Peter Tomozawa.

Happy Year of the Snake to our community of readers and advertisers! We are grateful for your support.

One of the highlights of 2024 was a very special trip this fall to Shikoku, Japan, with 20 others from our community. As many of you know, my father, Fujimatsu Moriguchi, was born near Matsuyama, a major city on Shikoku Island, and learned his trade in Uwajima. Our tour of the island was a wonderful experience that highlighted the close ties between Shikoku and Seattle. We dined and drank sake with Ehime Prefecture government officials, were greeted by the mayor of Uwajima, and had memorable interactions with students in Matsuyama and Uwajima. Perhaps the most amazing encounter was when our tour bumped into Ei Takahashi, the grandson of Prime Minister Takeo Miki. Takahashi was campaigning for a Diet seat in Tokushima when Don Mukai and Vicki Toyohara, members of our tour, introduced themselves. I had met Ei years ago when he was a young man studying in Tacoma. It was a delight to be reunited with him! And the cherry on top was that he won his race and is now in Japan's Diet. Perhaps he will follow in his grandfather's footsteps!

Tomio Moriguchi, NAP Publisher

Happy New Year! Thanks to your support, The North American Post and Soy Source had a good 2024. Both publications are now in full color and in good hands as our editors settle into their roles. And now that the pandemic is well behind us, you will see our staff at community events, snapping photographs and interviewing people. It feels good to have those connections back.

We also continued our Japan tours in 2024 and are planning two more for this year. One of the highlights last year was a spring tour to Tokyo, Kyoto and beyond. It had us parading in the Kobe Matsuri along with Mayor Bruce Harrell. Also, we enjoyed a special autumn trip to Shikoku with Tomio. These are not cookie cutter tours: our deep connections here and in Japan always seem to deliver some very special moments. If you have not joined us yet, we hope you will.

Bruce Rutledge, NAP General Manager

新年明けましておめでとうございます

提供　内閣広報室

令和７（２０２５）年の年頭に当たり、米国にお住まいの日本人、日系人の皆様に、謹んで新年のお慶びを申し上げます。

世界各地では、約１３０万人の在留邦人の方々、そして約５００万人の日系人の方々が、それぞれの地域社会で活躍され、その功績は高く評価されています。また、皆様による日本の文化や魅力の発信、米国の方々との交流は、日本と米国との絆を深め、両国の国民間の友好親善を一層深化させることに貢献されています。私自身、昨年１１月にペルー及びブラジルを訪問した際に、日系人、在留邦人の方々と直接お話しする機会があり、異国の地における皆様の献身的な御活躍に触れることができました。

現在、国際秩序に大きな挑戦がもたらされ、ウクライナや中東、また地球規模課題への対応を巡り、国際社会の分断と対立が進んでいます。我が国周辺でも、核・ミサイル能力の強化、急速な軍備増強、力による一方的な現状変更の試みなどの動きが一層顕著になっています。こうした厳しく複雑な国際社会においても、国益に基づく現実的な外交により、日米同盟を基軸に、友好国・同志国と緊密に連携するとともに、中国を含む各国との対話を重ねます。これにより、分断と対立を乗り越え、法の支配に基づく国際秩序を断固として堅持する考えです。

私としては、これらの努力を積み重ねることにより、日本が引き続き世界から信頼され、力強い国であり続けるよう、そして皆様にとって母国、ルーツとして誇りに思うことができる国であり続けるようにしていきたいと考えております。皆様におかれては、引き続き、日本と米国とを結ぶ架け橋として、各方面においてお力添えを頂きたく、よろしくお願い申し上げます。本年は巳年となりますが、脱皮を繰り返す様子から、再生、変化、成長を象徴するとも言われております。本年が皆様にとって大いなる飛躍の一年となることを願うとともに、皆様の御多幸と御繁栄を祈念申し上げ、私の年頭の御挨拶といたします。

天皇陛下御誕生日（令和6年2月9日撮影）。御所にて提供：宮内庁令和7（2025）年　元旦内閣総理大臣　石破　茂

米国にお住まいの日本人、日系人の皆様、明けましておめでとうございます。昨年１０月に外務大臣に就任した岩屋毅です。

外務大臣を拝命した２週間後、私は、第６４回海外日系人大会に参加された皆様をお招きし、最初のレセプションを主催しました。また、昨年１１月にペルーを訪問した際には、現地の日系人の方々にお会いすることができました。こうした機会に多くの方々からお話を伺う中で、世界各地の日系社会の絆の強さや、皆様がそれぞれの地域で日本との架け橋として果たされている大きな役割を改めて強く感じました。

ロシアによるウクライナ侵略や中東情勢、厳しさを増すインド太平洋の安全保障環境など、既存の国際秩序は大きな挑戦にさらされています。このような中で、日米同盟の深化と抑止力の強化、「自由で開かれたインド太平洋」の実現に向けた同盟国・同志国との連携、グローバル・サウスとのきめ細かな連携を三つの柱として、積極的に国際社会の平和と安定、繁栄に貢献していきたいと考えております。

日本外交を前に進めていくに当たっては、日本と各国との国民同士の交流を通じて世界の融和と協調に貢献されてこられた在留邦人ならびに日系人の皆様からの一層の御助力が不可欠です。今後とも、皆様の御支援をよろしくお願い申し上げます。

この一年の皆様の御健勝と御多幸を祈念し、私の年頭の御挨拶とさせていただきます。

提供　在シアトル日本国総領事館

新年明けましておめでとうございます。

令和7（2025）年　元旦外務大臣　岩屋　毅

本年は当館（在シアトル日本国総領事館）の前身にあたる在タコマ日本国総領事館が設置されて130年という大きな節目の年にあたります。当館の歴史を紐解いてみると、1895年にタコマ市に日本国総領事館が設置されました。当時のタコマ市には、既に定期航路や鉄道があったことが設置理由だったようです。1896年に日本郵船のシアトル定期航路が開設されると、日系移民が本格的に増え始めたこともあり、1901年初めに日本国総領事館がシアトル市に移転しました。その後、第二次世界大戦の影響により1941年12月30日に閉鎖されましたが、1950年6月12日に再開し、現在に至ります。

コロナ禍で落ち込んだ双方向の観光交流の回復・拡大を目指し、日米両国は昨2024年を「日米観光交流年」と定め、両国の官民観光関係者が密接に連携協力し、施策・イベントを両国で展開してきました。当館も、日本文化イベントやSNSなどを活用して日本へのインバウンド観光を幅広くPRしてきました。その結果、訪日米国人旅行者数は250万人を超えると見込まれ、過去最高となりました。訪日外国人旅行者数全体でも2024年7月の訪日外国人旅行者数は約330万人と単月として過去最高を記録し、年間でも3,500万人を超える見通しで、こちらも過去最高となりました。

本年、日本では、4月13日から10月13日まで2025年大阪・関西万博が大阪・夢ゆめしま洲で開催されます。日米双方で万博の機運が高まっており、多くの方々に日本を訪れ、万博を含め、日本の隠れた魅力を是非発見していただきたいと思います。昨年と同様、本年も姉妹都市交流に係るイベントのみならず、次の世代を担う中学生や高校生による相互訪問など、草の根レベルの文化交流が予定されています。このような場を活かしつつ、引き続きワシントン州、モンタナ州及びアイダホ州北部で日本の魅力の発信に努めるとともに、両地域のビジネス、文化、観光等での関係・交流がさらに深まるお手伝いをしてまいります。

御承知のとおり、昨年5月27日からマイナンバーカードを持っていない海外在住者の方（2015年10月5日以降に国外転出をしている方に限る。）も国外転出者向けマイナンバーカードの申請・交付が在外公館において可能となりました。また、7月19日からは、公職選挙法施行令の一部改正により、在外選挙人証の交付に要する期間を大幅に短縮するための取組が始まっています。今年は3月24日から、人定事項ページにプラスチック機材を用いた新型の旅券の導入が予定されています。これは、旅券の国際標準等を取り扱う国際民間航空機関（ICAO）の勧告等を踏まえたもので、旅券の盗難・悪用防止及び偽変造対策を強化することを目的とし、本邦の国立印刷局にて一元的に作成することになります。このため、当地で申請を受理した場合、国立印刷局で作成される旅券を当地に配送する必要が生じるため、交付には最短でも2週間以上の日数を要することとなります。残存有効期間が1年未満の場合には、早めに旅券の申請（オンラインで在留届を提出されている場合には、オンライン申請も可能です）を行ってください。今後とも在留邦人の皆様への行政サービスの充実をはかるとともに、お役に立つ情報を積極的に発信してまいります。本年の皆さまのご健康とご多幸をお祈りいたします。

令和7（2025）年　元旦在シアトル日本国総領事　伊従　誠 2025年は巳年。ヘビは生命や再生の象徴とされ、巳と「実」を関連させて「実を結ぶ年」とも言われています。そこで正月花には、二種類の実もの、コトネアスターと姫りんごを配し子孫繁栄を願いました。松は家内安全を祈り、和花の菊で格調高く仕上げ、足元にはツバキをさして、まぜざしで華やかに表現しました。

祝いのまぜざし

草月シアトル支部主催「2024バーチャルいけばな展示会」　開催中～1月3日（金）詳細：https://seattlesogetsu.wixsite.com/home/2024-winter-exhibition

金子恵ショッカー草月流師範理事、シアトル草月支部副支部長、いけばなインターナショナル会員。Ikebana By Megumiスタジオ主宰。初心者いけばな体験クラスは月2回あり。 ☎425-744-9751　megumi.schacher@gmail.com　www.ikebanabymegumi.com @megumi.schacher @megumischacher9649

揮毫　加柴律子 ©米国書道研究会シアトル支部

提供　外務省

Washington State Legislature

Dear Fellow Washingtonians,

On behalf of the Office of the Secretary of State of Washington, I wish you a very peaceful, joyous, and prosperous 2025.

I am fortunate to conduct a trade mission in Japan soon. I love seeing the strong sense of community, many traditions that honor history, and commitment to building relationships between Japan and Washington, which I am excited to continue in 2025.

Olympia, Legislative Building

WA 98504-0482

During the November 5 General Election, more than 3.7 million Washingtonians made their voices heard to improve communities across the state. My office has been working hard to ensure everyone eligible has equal access to civic and voter education programs and ways to cast their votes, especially non-Englishspeaking voters, voters with disabilities, new residents, and voters in tribal and underserved communities.

Voters this year will decide many important items affecting our communities. Those interested in voting can easily and conveniently register online at www. sos.wa.gov/elections.

In the year ahead, I look forward to continuing to expand Washington State Library resources and deal with challenges to libraries everywhere, including book banning. Books serve as a gateway to life experiences, empowering readers to understand different places, cultures, religions, perspectives, and ideas. What’s more, libraries serve as safe spaces where everyone may gather.

I hope the New Year brings a clear resolution to another challenge: the future of our State Archives. The Archives preserve our history and provide public access to understanding the state’s identities and cultures. They are at risk due to structural deficiencies. The building they are housed in near the Capitol floods frequently, and I am urgently trying to bring a long-planned new State LibraryArchives Building to fruition.

I am confident that 2025 will be a wonderful year of exciting possibilities. If you would like to reach my office, please do so at 360-902-4151 or secretaryofstate@sos.wa.gov.

Once again, I am sending you and your loved ones many good wishes for a Happy New Year.

Steve Hobbs Secretary of State

Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle

Happy New Year!

info@se.mofa.go.jp

This year marks the 130th anniversary of the establishment of the ConsulateGeneral of Japan in Tacoma, the predecessor to our current Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle, Washington. Delving into our history, the Japanese Consulate-General was established in Tacoma in 1895, largely due to the existing regular shipping routes and railroads in the city at that time. In 1896, with the opening of NYK Line’s regular route to Seattle, Japanese immigration began to increase significantly, leading to the relocation of the Consulate-General to Seattle in early 1901. Although it was closed on December 30, 1941, due to the impacts of World War II, it reopened on June 12, 1950, and continues to serve the region today.

In an effort to restore and expand two-way tourism that had declined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan and the United States designated 2024 as the “U.S.-Japan Tourism Exchange Year.” Throughout the year, both governments and private-sector tourism stakeholders have collaborated closely to implement initiatives and events in both countries. Our consulate has actively promoted inbound tourism to Japan through Japanese cultural events and social media, among other means. As a result, the number of American visitors to Japan is expected to exceed 2.5 million, marking an all-time high. Japan also reached a record with approximately 3.3 million international visitors in July 2024. The annual total is projected to surpass 35 million—both record figures.

In Japan, the 2025 World Expo will be held in Osaka at Yumeshima Island from April 13 to October 13. Anticipation for the Expo is growing in both Japan and the U.S. We hope many people will visit Japan to discover the country’s hidden charms, including those highlighted by the Expo.

This year, as last year, will feature not only sister city exchange events but also grassroots cultural exchanges such as mutual visits by middle and high school students who represent the next generation. Capitalizing on these opportunities, we aim to showcase the allure of Japan in Washington, Montana, and northern Idaho, fostering even deeper connections and exchanges in the realm of business, culture, tourism between our regions.

Wishing you all good health and happiness in the coming year.

Makoto Iyori Consul General of Japan in Seattle

Nisei Veterans Committee NVC Foundation

Dear Members and Supporters of the Nisei Veterans Committee and NVC Foundation,

Happy New Year! We hope you’ll join us on May 26th at 10 am for the 80th consecutive NVC/NVC Foundation Memorial Day Ceremony at Lake View Cemetery in Seattle. The picture in our ad is of the first Memorial Day after World War II with the original members of the Nisei Veterans Committee. The ceremony is always a moving tribute to those who have paid the ultimate price. There are few WWII veterans left, but we remember them all for what they did for our community and our country. We continue to offer tours of the NVC Memorial Hall to individuals as well as groups who are interested in learning more about the history of Japanese in America and the service of those Nisei. Request a tour by emailing info@seattlenvc.org.

The monthly Nisei luncheon has continued and even gained popularity as it enables our seniors to gather for tasty lunch with old friends. NVC Memorial Hall is a host to many activity groups for basketball, pickleball, kyudo, and taiko.

Our educational outreach has extended to new audiences and programs. Our facilities are event venues for community groups of all kinds, and they are all amazed at the history and the resiliency of our founders, their families and supportive friends over the years.

In addition, our programs have reached numerous schools and community groups, educating the younger generation about the history and contributions of the Nisei veterans. There are scholarships that engage young people to learn about and comment on the spirit of service and excellence.

As we look forward to the new year, we extend an invitation to engage with the NVC and the NVC Foundation. May we continue to honor the legacy of our veterans, support our community, and inspire future generations.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support. Wishing you and your families a joyous and prosperous New Year!

Warm regards,

Dale L. Watanabe

Jay Deguchi

Commander Presiden Nisei Veterans Committee NVC Foundation

Dear Friends and Community Members, 新年明けましておめでとうございます！

(206)374-0180 jassw@jassw.org

As Chair of the Japan America Society of the State of Washington (JASSW), an organization dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the people of Japan and the United States, I am thrilled to extend my warmest wishes for a joyful and prosperous New Year.

As we start 2025, we welcome the Year of the Snake in the Chinese zodiac. The snake is often associated with wisdom, intuition and transformation – all essential attributes as we embrace changes and growth in our evolving world.

As we face so much happening globally, the importance of grassroots connections cannot be overstated. It is the local relationships and community ties that empower us to foster resilience and mutual support. The Japan America Society strives to link together people and organizations who want to deepen the bonds of communities,. We can strengthen the foundation for cross-cultural understanding and partnership, and provide a sense of belonging.

We warmly invite you to engage in our upcoming events and activities that honor our rich cultural tapestry. Whether you are a long-standing member or joining us for the first time, there is a welcoming place for everyone in our vibrant community of JASSW.

Wishing you all great happiness, health, and prosperity in the year ahead.

Warm regards,

Masami Katayama 2024-2025 Chair of Japan America Society of the State of Washington

Japan Business Association of Seattle (Shunjukai)

シアトル日本商工会（春秋会）

あけましておめでとうございます。皆さまにおかれましては、ご家族、親しい方々とともに新しい年を健やかにお迎えのこととお慶び申し上げます。日頃よりシアトル日本商工会（春秋会）の活動にご理解とご支援を賜り、誠にありがとうございます。商工会を代表して厚く御礼申し上げます。

当会は日本に縁をもちつつ、ノースウエストに根を張り、当地の福祉・教育・文化・産業・行政の発展に尽くしてこられた多くの先人の尊い努力と献身を礎に、脈々と続くその志を受け継いでまいりました。

皆さまとともに、改めて歴史に思いをはせ、地域コミュニティに感謝しつつ一層の関係充実を図ってまいりたいと思います。

本年の皆さまのご健康とご多幸を祈念いたします。

弥勒学　シアトル日本商工会（春秋会）会長

Happy New Year ,

I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year with your families and loved ones. Thank you for your continued support of and cooperation with the activities of the Japan Business Association of Seattle (JBAS). On behalf of the JBAS, I would like to express our sincere gratitude.

JBAS has inherited the noble efforts and dedication of many of our predecessors. While having ties to Japan, they have put down roots in the Northwest. They also contributed to the development of welfare, education, culture, industry, and government in this region.

I would like to reflect on our history again, express our gratitude to the local community, and work to further strengthen our relationships with you all . Warm wishes,

Manabu Miroku

President, Japan Business Association of Seattle (Shunjukai)

Dear Friends,

As we look to the New Year, I find myself reflecting on the importance of our work together. Now, more than ever, I believe that our efforts to preserve and share our history matter—especially as we confront increasing misinformation around our collective past. I am grateful to be part of a community with such a deeply held commitment to stewarding the stories of our past for the generations of tomorrow.

https://densho.org/

Together, in 2025, we will continue adding new oral histories, photo collections, and other precious historical materials to Densho’s archives. By preserving these primary sources, we ensure that the authentic voices and lived experiences of Japanese Americans remain at the heart of the historical narrative, fostering a deeper, more expansive understanding of Japanese American history. I am also excited to expand our educational offerings and introduce new resources that will bring stories of the World War II incarceration into classrooms here in Seattle, Washington and across the country. And I look forward to collaborating with many of you as we approach this essential work—whether you share a collection with Densho’s archives team, utilize our Koseki Retrieval and Translation Service to retrace your family’s roots in Japan, or join us at an upcoming event.

Happy New Year from all of us at Densho! Please take care of yourselves and each other. We will continue forward together.

In community,

Naomi Ostwald Kawamura Executive Director

Densho The Japanese American Legacy Project

1414 S Weller St. Seattle, WA 98144

www.jcccw.org

Board of Directors President

• Reinstated in-person youth Japanese Language classes!

Dear Friends and Supporters of the “J”, Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu! Happy New Year! As 2024 closes, we extend a heartfelt gratitude for your support of the JCCCW. This year, we celebrated our community’s vibrant heritage and many accomplishments. Highlights include the distinction of receiving the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation, honoring the Japanese Community Service's legacy for over seven decades of cultural bridge-building; the Northwest Nikkei Museum’s receipt of a prestigious Community Accelerator Grant; events such as Kodomo no Hi; and participation in the Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival . Also, a successful virtual Tomodachi Gala honoring actor and restaurateurs, Yuji and Angie Okumoto, of Kona Kitchen; and our premier program, the Seattle Japanese Language School, proudly servesing over 350 students with a rapidly growing waitlist are included. The community-run programs, at JCCCW like judo, karate, kempo, aikido, taiko, and tea ceremony to name a few, highlight our community’s deep commitment to Japanese language and cultural learning. Thank you for your continued support. Here is to more shared success in 2025!

Kurt Tokita

The White River Buddhist Temple would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and a wonderful 2025!

Some people might be thinking, “You are a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist. Jodo Shinshu Buddhists do not ‘wish.’” It is true that in our tradition of Buddhism, we do not “wish” for anything to gain materialistically. We believe that everything happens because of various causes and conditions. Thus, though we might “wish” for something, we understand that the outcomes we want to happen might or might not happen due to the causes and conditions at that moment.

3625 Auburn Way N, Auburn, WA 98002

(253)833-1442

“So why do you use “wish?” I was born and raised in America where “wish” is a very common word. Ever since I was a child, I hear phrases like, “I wish I bought that last week! It was cheaper!” or “I wish you Happy Holidays!”

“So can you use “wish” in your vocabulary even though you are a Buddhist?” Yes, I think I should continue to use “wish”. “Wish” is important as it can show a person’s feelings, especially in America. Of course, only wishing is not good as action is also important. This is why the White River Buddhist Temple continues to participate in community events in the Auburn area where we can ensure that everyone is able to have a wonderful year.

So once again, we wish everyone a Happy New Year and a wonderful year! Well wishes,

Rev. Cyndi Yasaki

Greetings,

Konko

1713 South Main Street Seattle, WA 98144 (206)325-4498

Congratulations on another year filled with divineblessings. This year we honor the spiritof Rev. Heiki Konko who passed away this summer.Rev. Heiki Konko was afifth-generation descendant of the founderof the Konko Faith, Ikigami Konko Daijin. He served as the principal mediator and leader of the Konko Faith from1991 to 2021.

During his tenure as theprincipal mediator, he led prayer every morning and offered sacred mediation atKonkokyo headquarters in Japan. This dailygoyo, sincere offering of self to fulfill Kami’s Will, was offered seven daysper week and

• Our online adult classes has surged to an all-time high of 200+ students!

• Interest continues to grow in our adult prep classes for those studying for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).

• The Seattle Rep joined the Omoide writing group in a collaborative performance presenting dramatic readings and original music at “What is Home: Japanese American Stories from Omoide”.

• Our own Northwest Nikkei Museum co-curators Eric and Maddy participated in a panel discussion at Emerald City Comic Con.

• Participated at the Sakura Matsuri (Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival).

• Hosekibako resale shop continues to thrive and our online shopping service continues to grow – all proceeds support the operation of the ”J”.

• Hosted a booth at Hai! Japantown 2023 at the Wing Luke Museum.

• Our community classes (Judo, Karate, taiko, etc.) and events continue to grow and offer unique experiences – come join us!

We are very fortunate to have such a great staff, volunteers and community. Wishing you all a healthy and safe Holiday Season and a big thank you for your continued support!

Happy New Year, Everyone! 明けましておめでとうございま

す！ I hope that you all will enjoy some quality time with family and friends in the New Year! The idea I would like everyone to ponder on this coming year of 2025 is “Wisdom and Compassion.” Everyone in the world experiences a type of suffering that universally occurs throughout our lives. We are worried or elated about the outcome of an election. Our sense of being is either validated or shaken.

info@tacomabt.org

In progressing into the New Year, I hope we are able to realize that all of us, no matter who we are, experience suffering.goes beyond the mundane inconveniences that often occur, like someone cutting us off the freeway, someone talking over you, someone taking the last of a food item you wanted, etc.

The suffering that Buddha expressed prevents us from fully awakening to reality. This strong sense of “my point of view” and “my reality” is that way of thinking. The suffering of deep anger that rises can cause violence. This results from the suffering or dukkha that we humans all share .

At the same time, Buddha taught us of the constant presence of wisdom and compassion for our benefit. The light of wisdom and the warmth of compassion reaches us even now. In times of sadness and anger, we tend to think of ourselves in the singular. However, when we can confide in a friend, a family member, a therapist or a teacher, and we are open to it, we can receive the loving compassionate care that Buddha taught us.

Let us begin this year looking towards that wisdom and compassion and inspire to continue this year with a deep sense of compassion for all. Namo

Amida Butsu.

Rev. Tadao Koyama

365 days per year for 30 years. He once described the Konko Faith as “This –the Way of Kami and people– will help Kami and save people”. In North America,we have been blessed to offer this Way of sacred mediation through the work ofthe eternal divine mediator, Ikigami Konko Daijin, since 1928 when the firstKonko Church in North America (Seattle) was established. Let us practice faith and receive divine blessingsthroughout 2025. Remember that a peaceful world begins with peace within ourhearts.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Sincerely,

Rev. Robert Giulietti

Head Ministe rKonko Church of Seattle

White River Buddhist Temple

Tacoma Buddhist Temple

NEW YEAR'S GREETINGS 新年の挨拶

Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple

浄土真宗本願寺派シアトル別院

2025年新年のご挨拶　　新年明けましておめでとうございます。2025年もどうぞ宜しくお願い致します。

新たな年を迎えよとするこの時、一つの言葉が思い出されます。

1427 S Main St, Seattle, WA 98144 (206)329-0800

「昨日があったから今日があると思い、今日があるから明日があると思い、いつの間にかそれが当たり前になって、一日何の感動もなく過ぎ去っていく。アッいう間に一年、アッという間に十年、そして、アッという間に一生」皆さんこの一年をどう過ごされましたか。今日一日をどう過ごされましたか。私たちの人生は、今日の連続です。いい人生を送るということは、今日をそして今を大切にするということです。 2025年もみなさまにとっていい一年になりますように。世の中安穏なれ、仏法ひろまれ。

合掌

浄土真宗本願寺派　シアトル別院　輪番　楠　活也

Seattle Koyasan Buddhist Temple

Happy New Year

1518 S Washington St Seattle, WA 98144

(206)325-8811

Last year was full of dark events, such as wars that are still going on around the world and frequent crimes in Seattle. But it was Shohei Ohtani's great performance that brightened our spirits from time to time. He won his third Major League Baseball MVP award. As you may know, MVP stands for Most Valuable Player. The baseball experts who voted for Ohtani recognized his number of homeruns and stolen bases as valuable. So, what is the value of each of us? Considering that baseball is Ohtani's job, the ability to hit home runs, steal bases, and pitch the ball (if his right shoulder gets healthy) is a professional skill. So, are people with professional abilities more socially valuable? According to SoftBank's Mr. Masayoshi Son, in the near future artificial intelligence (AI) will explode to super-artificial intelligence. Human capabilities in most occupations will be overtaken by the capabilities of AI-powered robots. At that time, will we humans fall into worthless existence?

Dear Readers,

On behalf of the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple, I wish each of you a happy and healthy New Year.

When one year’s end is approaching, I remember one teaching.

“We assume that today has come because there was yesterday, and tomorrow will come because it is today. Somewhere along the way, we take life for granted and just live every day without feeling any meaning.

One year passes as quick as a flash. Ten years pass as quickly as a wink. And our entire life passes as quick as lightning.”

How did you live your life in 2024? How did you live today? Our life is a continuation of today. To live our life fully means to cherish today and this moment.

I hope the year 2025 is going to be a good year for all of you.

May there be peace in the world and may the Buddha’s teaching spread.”

With Palms Together (Gassho),

Rev. Katsuya Kusunoki, Rimban

I think our hearts are attracted to Ohtani's virtue that can be conveyed even through the screen. I believe that this is where the source of his value lies.

When Ohtani was in high school, he created a mandala-like chart, commonly known as the "Ohtani Mandala," to help him become a great professional baseball player in the future. In addition to physical aspects, there are goals such as pick up trash, be polite to umpires, care for teammates, cherish tools, be a loveable person, show gratitude, offer greetings, be a supportive person, do not be overjoyed or depressed. It is just like Buddhist precepts. The precepts are not something that binds people, but something that protects and nurtures them. Despite the many difficulties he has faced, Ohtani has been able to perform well because he is protected by something. Although I am a monk, I dare not say that the Buddha has protected him. I think his way of life protects him. Good karma leads to good results and bad karma shapes a bad future. It is the root of the Buddhist path.

If you are a fan of Ohtani, think about what draws you to him the most. What is his greatest value? Do you like him because he hit 54 home runs? Do you like him because he has stolen 59 bases? I do not think so. Is it because he is a nice guy? Is it because he is polite, caring, friendly, humble, sincere, and willing to work hard? There is no such item in the MVP evaluation criteria, but

Even if we are to be swallowed up by the wave of AI, let us increase our value as human beings, which will not diminish. Whether the world is in an upheaval or Seattle becomes an even tougher place to live, let us think, speak, and do as much good as we can, with less thinking, saying, or doing bad things. If the number of people living in this way increases, Seattle and this world will eventually become a better place. It is the long way, but the only way. It is the way of bodhisattva. Even though we cannot hit a home run, let us keep trying to become an imperfect bodhisattva where we are. May everyone’s life be cherished this year. Thank you.

Ven. Taijo Imanaka, Head Priest

The North American Post Since 1902 napost.com

NEW YEAR'S GREETINGS 新年の挨拶

Seattle Japanese American Citizens League

P.O. Box 18558 Seattle Wa 98118

http://seattlejacl.org

info@seattlejacl.org

Membership: https://jacl.org/member/

Puyallup Valley Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League

www.puyallupvalleyjacl. orgelamphere@live.com

Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu!

Happy New Year to All from the Seattle Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL)! We look forward to another year of serving our Nikkei (Japanese American) community. We are grateful to the North American Post for continuing to be the respected voice of the community for the Seattle area and Washington State. The North American Post keeps us connected with current news and our rich history in the region.

This year, we continued our work to keep alive the civil rights lessons learned over 80 years ago from the incarceration of 125,000 Japanese Americans. In February 2024, we co-sponsored a moving Day of Remembrance at the Puyallup fairgrounds and joined the following demonstration protesting the deplorable treatment of immigrant detainees at the Northwest ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Processing Center (NIPC), formerly the NWDC [Northwest Detention Center) in Tacoma, Washington that echoed the treatment of our ancestors in the World War II concentration camps. Many of our members also supported other actions by our partner organization, Tsuru for Solidarity against incarceration at the NIPC. With a JACL member event, we learned about the legacy of the historic Japanese American Mukai Farm on Vashon Island, in Washington, now a community institution.

We spoke out on important issues to educate and advocate for justice. We have issued strong statements against Islamophobia and anti-semitism, as well as a humanitarian call for a cease-fire in the war in Gaza. We co-sponsored a film and panel conversation in October to show why Asian-Pacific Islander communities need to support the ongoing campaign to support Black reparations for slavery and the 150 years of continued discrimination and racism. And we are working with others to replace the stolen statue commemorating Sadako Sasaki, the young survivor of the Hiroshima A-bomb whose effort to create thousand origami cranes have become a testimony for world peace.

Seattle JACL has worked this year in solidarity with others in our Asian-Pacific Islander community, advocating for our city and county governments to improve the safety in the face of continued anti-Asian violence and discrimination. We lent critical support to the successful establishment of statewide hate crimes hotline. We provided strong statements supporting the re-establishment of the King County Civil Rights Commission.

In the New Year, we hope to expand our reach to the community, and to connect with the next generation that will carry Seattle JACL into the future!

Kyle Kinoshita, President, Seattle Japanese American Citizens League (JACL)

Happy New Year … - Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu! Puyallup Valley JACL proudly opened the Remembrance Gallery at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup, Washington with a ribbon cutting ceremony in August 2024; welcoming over 16,000 people during the fall fair season. The Gallery presents the wartime incarceration experience in 1942 through the Nikkei (Japanese American) lens and voices with accurate, authentic, and respectful perspectives.

These visitors explored the stories, oral histories, and maps within the “Throughline”, reflected on over 7500 names listed on the “Monument”, and contemplated living in the 8 by 10-foot horse stall. Engaging and interactive screens provide a unique approach to learning about the various assembly centers and permanent camps. Overall, the technology offers inspiration and empowerment to encourage visitors to advocate for other groups experiencing discrimination. The Gallery is located inside the grandstands near the original Fisher scones and across from the Fair Museum. While the Gallery is currently closed to the public, tours may be scheduled for groups. Please contact Sharon Sobie Seymour, interim Gallery manager at ssproevents@comcast.net.

Eileen Yamada Lamphere President, Puyallup Valley JACL

Left to right: Bill Weyerhaeuser, Penny Fukui, Frank Fukui, Alice Hikido, Mary Abo, Cho Shimizu, Elsie Taniguchi, Jim Yamaguchi, Renee McCain, Barbara Mizoguchi-Asahara, Liz Dunbar, Sharon Sobie Seymour, and Eileen Yamada Lamphere.

Northwest Youth Corps Recruiting Interns at Japanese American Historical Sites

By Lev Kellendy and Peter Cesser NAP Contributor

Exclusion from outdoor recreation reflects legacies of oppression in marginalized communities and makes access to the outdoors not equally available. Northwest Youth Corps’ (NYC) Conservation Internship Program was established in 2015 to provide paraprofessional experiences with land and water resource management agencies, such as the National Park Service (NPS). NYC’s Conservation Internship Program provides participants with paid opportunities to acquire the skills needed to qualify for permanent and seasonal employment opportunities.

In 2024, Northwest Youth Corps partnered with Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial in Bainbridge Island,

Washington, and the Minidoka National Historic Site near Jerome, Idaho, to host two 20-week interns from the Japanese American (JA) community. Interns 1) enhanced recreational and accessibility opportunities; 2) supported management of natural and cultural resources; 3) told the story of Executive Order 9066; and 4)supported and participated in the Minidoka Pilgrimage. These individuals were recruited and built relationships with under-represented communities and introduced them to the parks.

• BAINBRIDGE ISLAND JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION MEMORIAL. The memorial honors the first JAs (227 Bainbridge Islanders) to be rounded up by the U.S. Army, forcibly removed from their community and incarcerated during World War II in 1942. At the memorial, visitors can reflect and learn about this site’s legacy of Nidoto Nai Yoni (Let It Not Happen Again) . The intern will provide interpretation to around 25,000 people.

• MINIDOKA NATIONAL HISTORICAL SITE. During World War II, over 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry were forcibly removed from their homes and incarcerated without due

process of the law. The Minidoka Relocation Center once held over 13,000 JAs. The site still includes remains of root cellars, barracks, a mess hall and a fire station. Today, it preserves the legacy and teaches the public the importance of civil liberties. The intern provided assistance to more than 10,000 people.

• Interns at Bainbridge and Minidoka also participated in a Minidoka pilgrimage which attracted an estimated 300 people and completed 150 hours of program development. This annual pilgrimage is an event that reflects on the incarceration of JAs during World War II. Survivors, their families and others also attended educational and historical discussions about the incarceration and its legacy.

The National Park Foundation funded support work such as:

• The Seattle area national parks hosted eight NYC interns in 2023. They served at the Bainbridge memorial and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The parks work in educating the public, curating, archiving and conserving and preserving historical sites for future generations.

• Over the last four years, NYC’s partnership with Southern Idaho National Parks (SOID) grew from five interns in 2019 to 20 interns in 2023. Due to the efforts of NPS mentors at the sites, interns had remarkable opportunities for success. They assisted in the facilitation of the 2023 Minidoka Pilgrimage, attended conferences for the American Association for State and Local History, designed new outreach

and introduction materials, mapped unexplored caves, curated in-depth site tours, created scripts read by famous JAs in Tadaima — a community virtual pilgrimage — and recently announced the Minidoka WWII Replica Honor Roll update project. More information about the project can be found at: https:// go.nps.gov/minidokahonor. The interns also assisted SOID staff in missioncritical work that helps preserve the natural and cultural resources found in Southern Idaho.

Each of the locations employed at least two NYC alumni and plans to hire more in the future.

NYC assisted interns in securing conservation-type job positions (in both the public and private sector) Continues to page 10

Former NW Youth Corp intern Midori Teraoka now a full-time National Park Ranger. Photo credit: NW Youth Corp.

Former NW Youth Corp intern Midori Teraoka manning the National Perk Service booth. Japan Day event in Boise, Idaho promoting cultural awareness and education. Photo credit: NW Youth Corp.

once their terms of service were over.

One example of this success is NYC alum, Kurt Ikeda, who was an interpretation intern at Minidoka in 2018. He secured a permanent position with the NPS at Minidoka as Director of Interpretation and Education in 2020. Kurt was later awarded the 2021 Outstanding Achievement in Humanities Award by the Idaho Humanities Council for his achievements sharing JA internment stories. NYC is proud of Kurt and the incredible professional path he has taken since his time with NYC.

Former intern, Emily Teraoka, is the new permanent Park Ranger at Minidoka. Teraoka’s recent (and past) work includes curated visitor center

By Princeton Lok and WA DECA NAP Contributor

I am Princeton Lock, a junior at Newport High School in Bellevue, Washington. I am reaching out to share an exciting initiative. It aims to make a difference in the community by teaching young people essential financial literacy skills. As part of a Washington DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) project, founded in 1946, WA DECA is a program that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers. It teaches marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. Our team of three has launched “Youth Finance University”. It is a free program offering financial education sessions for kids in elementary and

exhibits, in-depth site tours and scripts read by famous JAs in Tadaima – a community virtual pilgrimage. In 2022, Minidoka highlighted more of Teraoka’s projects including updated brochures, wayside trail exhibits and the recently announced Minidoka WWII Replica Honor Roll Update Project.

Future NYC internships include:

• BAINBRIDGE ISLAND

JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION

MEMORIAL. Interns will engage with more JAs and BIPOCs (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) in Bainbridge, increase interpretation and focus on equity and inclusion within the park. Interns will also learn and conduct independent research on the history of JA incarceration with particular emphasis on the community of Bainbridge Island. They will share

their knowledge with visitors through formal and informal tours. They will also develop original publications, web pages and content for social media. In addition, interns will work in collaboration with a park service ranger, the community and other partners.

• MINIDOKA NATIONAL HISTORICAL SITE. Interns will engage more JAs and BIPOCs in the story of Minidoka, increase the awareness of history and focus on equity and inclusion within the park. Interns will supplement the history, education and facilities management workforce by assisting in the visitor center, maintaining facilities and inviting public engagement with the JA incarceration.

For more information about the internships, see: https://www. nwyouthcorps.org/interns/

Youth Finance University

middle school at local libraries.

The three of us 16-year-old students have experience tutoring at Kumon Education Company and Mathnasium Learning Center, although it is our first time teaching finance. I am the lead educator, as I have the most financial knowledge and strongest financial track record. (I have an e-commerce background and consistently outperformed the S&P 500 index every year since I was 12). Other team mentors include Nik Bhotika and William Ross, who have strong math and analytical skills as demonstrated by their rigorous course load at Newport.

Youth Finance University is a student-led effort designed to help kids understand the basics of money

spearheads outreach efforts, and designs course content, drawing on years of financial market experience since age 12 to create impactful lessons.

With classroom teaching experience from Kumon and tutoring at Mathnasium, Nik customizes the curriculum to meet each student’s unique learning needs.

Will oversees general instruction and regulates engagement, ensuring each and every student is having fun with each lesson while developing necessary skills.

Continues to page 15

Former NW Youth Corp intern Midori Teraoka giving directions to Matthew Schlegel at the Minidoka site. Photo credit: NW Youth Corp.

Princeton Lock Project Director Princeton leads the team,

Meet Our Team

Nik Bhotika Educational Coordinator

Will Ross Educational Coordinator

Japanese Cultural & Community Center of WA

Year of the Snake Drawings by Seattle Japanese Language School Students

▲By Viola, 12 years old

▲By Skyler, 14 years old

▲By Ayako, 12 years old

▲By Mina, 10 years old

▲By Jameson, 10 years old

▲By Edie, 9 years old

By Chi-Chi, 9 years old ▶︎

◀ By Satomi, 16 years old

CLASSIFIEDS クラシファイド

JOBS

■Nikkei Manor Assisted Living, a senior housing community in the heart of Seattle’s International District, is currently seeking a dynamic and experienced Sales & Marketing Manager to cultivate relationships with potential residents, their families, and professionals in the senior housing industry. Email your resume to anguyen@keironw.org to apply. For more information about Nikkei Manor, please see the advertisement on page 1.

MEET-UPS

■Seattle Koyasan Buddhist Temple has a Goma Fire Ritual on the last Sunday of every month at 12 p.m. $10 per Goma-wish. Everyone is welcome. After the ritual, you will be treated with Monastic miso soup and rice. Contact: (206)325-8811 or contact@seattlekoyasan.com.

■ 百年の歴史を持つシアトル短歌会です。新会員を募集しています。楽しく学びながら短歌を作ってみませんか？短歌を作ってましたという方も大歓迎です。歌会は毎月第二月曜日午前十時から川辺

ハウスの図書室にて開催。見学、または入会ご希望の方、田宮までご連絡ください。（206）851-4303またはatamiya@ comcast.net.

OTHER

■Please support Yuki Wellbaum, the victim of the stabbing that occurred on December 5th in Licton Spring Park in Seattle. For Donation: https://gofund. me/af0ed09a. Right: A recently taken photo of Yuki recovering at home.

●CLASSIFIEDS: https://napost.com/ classifieds/

By Eric Uyeji NAP Contributor

10K and Still Running

The year sure is flying by! I cannot believe it is already the end of the year. A few months back, I wrote about my desire to get back into running. It is something I have mentioned in the past and has been part of my life at various stages since high school.

Arthritis has hampered this effort the past four-five years. Now that I have had my hip surgically repaired, I felt this was a great time to start over. I had this conversation in my head a few years ago when a surgeon told me I had run my last 10K (ten kilometers/

6.2 miles). I really want to conquer that. Here is the hard part. My hip joint has difficulty dealing with the impact of running. Initially, after surgery, I started to push my running a little too early as the pain would come quickly and force me to stop. I waited almost a year and noticed less pain on a few runs, but then occasionally it would start up again. It is frustrating and, on top of that, I am out of shape!

As of now, I am attempting a few runs a week at various short distances. This journey appears to be longer than

what I had originally thought. My goal is to run a pain-free three miles a week by the end of the year. Based on my old standards, this would be a snap but now it is actually a more realistic goal. If I can go pain-free every week then I can add more.

Next year I plan on running a 10K just to prove I can still do it. I am currently looking for a good race in the spring or summer of 2025 that will give me the necessary time to train and work up to that level. Wish me luck!

INTERVIEW インタビュー

By Bruce Rutledge NAP General Manager

When Shizu Usami came to the Consulate-General of Japan office in Seattle, Washington, in late 2024 to give Deputy Consul General Junichi Sumi a calligraphy lesson, she brought sheets of paper she had acquired in grade school.

“So, you got them just recently, right?” quipped Sumi. The Izumo paper was actually 40 years old. Usami explained that every element of sumi-e, or East Asian calligraphy, is important. Great care and thought are given to the paper, ink stick, ink stone and brush.

Usami began learning calligraphy when she was 3 years old. Her mother taught her from that young age, which helped her feel at one with the brush. She encourages others to start their children early.

The Writing Life with Shizu Usami

Usami pursued a career in calligraphy after graduating from University of Teacher Education Fukuoka, one of only four programs in Japan sanctioned to train high school calligraphy teachers.

When her mother fell ill, Usami left teaching to tend to her. Eventually, she returned to giving lectures on the history of kanji characters. You can see some of those on her YouTube channel, Vignettes Kanji Stories

Today, Usami continues as an educator and artist. Her home is in Kitakyushu City, Japan, where her family has a soy sauce and miso wholesale business. She once lived in Seattle and is pondering a return to the city.

That is how she found herself in the Consul General’s office. After giving a short talk on the history of calligraphy and the elements involved, she began her lesson.

"When I am writing, my heart releases," she says, but that ability to release comes through practice. "I'm 47 now and I started when I was three. Throughout my student years, I copied the masters and kept practicing. I experienced many frustrations while practicing. Why can't I do this? There was joy in the practice, but it was tough. And that is true of most of my practice. But after practicing for 20 years or so, I realized that it was up to me to find that release in my heart."

"I began to imagine a blank sheet of paper in my mind's eye," she continues. "And then I would take my brush to it. I would hear the sounds of calligraphy as I imagined the process, and my heart would release."

As she taught Deputy Consul General Sumi how to approach the blank page with his brush, she encouraged him to make confident brushstrokes.

For over an hour, we watched as Sumi wrote his name on sheet after sheet of paper. Over time, his brushstrokes went from hesitant to bold thanks to Usami’s constant coaxing and encouragement.

At one point, Usami switched seats with him to show everyone how she would write his name. The few spectators in the room oohed and aahed as she expertly wrote his name with thick, dramatic strokes. By the end of the lesson, Sumi was writing his name with flair. “That’s it!” Usami exclaimed. She placed the 40-year-old paper in front of him. The time had come. Sumi inked the brush and wrote his name one last time. The paper that was held onto since grade school was finally put to good use.

Deputy Counsel General Junichi Sumi gets instruction from calligraphy sensei Shizu Usami.

Sumi and Usami show their work in front of the Consulate General of Japan Seattle office.

Sumi's writing improved dramatically within the session: Before (left) and after practice (right).

Continued from page 10

management. Through interactive and age-appropriate workshops, topics are introduced like saving, budgeting, and responsible spending. This aims to instill practical financial habits early on.

As financial literacy becomes increasingly important, we believe it is essential to equip kids with the knowledge and skills they will need to make informed decisions in the future. By making these sessions free and accessible, we hope to support the community and foster a generation that feels empowered and financially confident.

We will continue working on this project after WA DECA, as we truly believe in impacting the community. This really is not about a project score or a grade — it is about helping the public. Over the long term, individuals with financial literacy are more likely to accumulate wealth and achieve higher income levels. Data reveals that low-income adults who participated in financial education programs saw a significant increase in net worth — up to 27 percent in some cases, according to research from Dartmouth College. In the future, we plan on expanding and scaling our initiative to recruit more teachers as we attract more students. We also plan on contacting curriculum developers across Washington State to see how they can better implement financial literacy courses within elementary and middle schools. I have reached out to middle school principals within the Bellevue School District to see if we can present at assemblies. It is hoped this initiative can benefit both the teacher and the student. It is presumed high-school teachers would gain teaching experience and

the student would gain strong financial literacy skills which would benefit them in the future.

The team welcomes media coverage that could help spread the word about this project. We plan to find our potential clients/students through community outreach efforts, primarily through promotional posters at local libraries and community centers. However, the bulk of the traffic is expected to utilize our social media outreach. We plan to post on local Facebook/Nextdoor/etc. groups and create educational, shortform content on TikTok and Instagram.

At this time, this initiative is selffunded, though we are anticipating funding from our school's WA DECA chapter. Support from local businesses or community organizations who may want to get involved is welcomed. Financial literacy is a lifelong skill. With the help of the community, we aim to inspire young people to make smart financial choices.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to highlight a project that aims to uplift the community's youth Please check out our website for more information at: https://youthfinance. org/.

YFU — Youth Finance University

Aimed at empowering the next generation with financial literacy skills. (Youth Finance University is not an accredited university.)

+1 206-452-9123, Bellevue, WA info@youthfinance.org

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ narcotic

Our Mission

To empower young minds with essential financial knowledge, making

complex concepts accessible and engaging for students aged 7+. As a DECA PMFL (Personal Financial Literacy) project, we believe that financial education should be available to everyone, regardless of their

WADECA is a not-for-profit student organization that has two unique student divisions — each with programs designed to address the learning styles, interest and focus of its members.

The experience starts in the classroom where students learn business concepts in preparation for college and careers. WA DECA brings the classroom to life by empowering the teacher-advisor to make learning relevant. It uses educational programs that integrate into classroom instructions, applies learning, connects to business and promotes competition. The successful integration of each four interconnected components results in a strong program producing college- and career-ready students.

WA DECA members are ambitious, high-achieving leaders equipped to conquer the challenges of their aspirations. Recognizing the benefits of service and responsibility to the community, they continually impact and improve their local and broader communities. Also, members are poised professionals with ethics, integrity and high standards. They are empowered through experience to provide effective leadership through goal setting, consensus building and project implementation.

background. That is why we offer our comprehensive program completely free of charge.

Why?

To create a future where every young person in the greater Seattle area has the financial knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their money and investments.

How?

We combine peer-to-peer learning with practical exercises and real-world examples to make financial education engaging and relevant for young learners.

When and Where?

At the moment, we are currently searching for available space to teach our lessons. Please sign up below to get updates on when and where we will be holding our classes.

夢はきっと実現する

あなたの夢を追い求めてください。U.S. Bankは、お客さまのフィナンシャル・パートナーとしてお手伝いいたします。

マイホームを購入する、起業する、将来に備えて貯蓄する… 人生の各ステージで必要になるサポートを、U.S. Bank が提供します。

当行のスペシャリストがお客さまの夢を大きく育てるために最適なフィナンシャル・プランを作成いたします。

U.S. Bankはお客さまの成功を信じており、お客さまが自信を持って未来を創造していく一助となるべく最善を尽くしてまいります。

当行の日本語対応専門のバイリンガル・カスタマーサービス部門が、お客さまの財務目標を叶えるためのお手伝いをいたします。

ジャパニーズ・カスタマーサービスユニット（JCSU：電話番号 877-479-5237）まで、お気軽にお問い合わせください。または、QR コードをスキャンして、 usbank.com/everydream（英語のみ）にて当行行員との対面でのコンサルテーションをご予約ください。

CALENDAR

カレンダー

DECEMBER

Terry’s Kitchen New Year’s Eve Gala! — Tue, Dec 31, 8:30 p.m.12:30 a.m., Terry’s Kitchen 5625 119th Ave SE, Bellevue. Featuring DJ Sheila E and DJ Craig! Dancing and celebrating your favorite music from past to present! Experience lighting and sound systems like you haven't seen or heard before! Appetizers, party favors, selfie photo booth and a champagne toast at midnight! Advance tickets online $35/pp. At the door $40/ pp. Capacity is limited. Presented by Chic Sound Productions, Nastymix Entertainment, and Terry’s Kitchen. Get your tickets now at: https://www. terryskitchenbellevue.com.

Red and White Song Gassen on New Year's Day – now until Jan 3 Kohaku Channel will be set up temporarily where Kohaku Uta Gassen will be re-broadcast multiple time at a fixed time. Now until Jan 5, sign up using coupon code"JME24" from the Jme website. First month is half price off regular monthly fee of $25. For more information, visit https://www.watch. jme.tv.

JANUARY 2025

Mochitzuki Event, Call for Volunteers

Sat, Jan 11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Seattle Chapter — Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) needs volunteers of all ages from its membership for the upcoming community-only event in Seattle. To volunteer or attend, please contact Tsuki Nomura-Henley at: snowy3000@gmail.com.

Seattle Fukushima New Year’s Party — SU, Jan 19, 2025, 1 p.m., Terry’s Kitchen, 5625 119th Ave SE, Bellevue. Please RSVP by SU, Jan 5 to: seattlefukushima@gmail.com.

Sixth SEIJIN-shiki USA by JIA (Japanese in America) Foundation Sun, Jan 19, 2025, 2 p.m. (doors open), 3 p.m. (program begins), Meydenbauer Center Theatre, 11100 NE 6th St, Bellevue. Anyone whose birthday falls between January 2003 and March 2005 regardless of nationality, ethnicity or Japanese language proficiency can register. Free to attend; pre-registration is required and now open at: https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/seijin-shiki-usa2025-tickets-1022268993077; space limited to first 150 registrants. General public registration opens Jan 1, limited seating, $10 per person. Donors who contribute $100 or more will be given priority invitations to VIP seating. SEIJIN-shiki USA is every other year starting 2025. No SEIJIN-shiki USA 2026. The seventh SEIJIN-shiki USA is 2027. For more information, see: https://seijinusa.org/2025-celebration/. Manzanar, Diverted, film screening and director Q&A — Thu, Jan 26. Fri, 27, 4-6 p.m. Free but registration required at: https://events.uw.edu/ d/9lqp1q/. University of Washington Seattle campus, Kane Hall, Room 220,

1410 NE Campus Pkwy, Seattle. The UW College of Arts & Sciences Walter Chapin Simpson Center is hosting the screening of “Manzanar, Diverted: When Water Becomes Dust,” a film by Japanese American director Ann Kaneko in collaboration with Native executive producer (Tracy Rector, Choctaw/Seminole). The film tells the story of the Manzanar concentration camp in southern California, and the longer history of the dispossession of the Nüümü (Paiute) and News (Shoshone) lands called Payahüünadü, the place where water always flows.

“To Repair” 修理 Lecture by artist Erin Shigaki — Fri, Jan 31, 2:303:30 p.m. Bellevue College, 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Room D106, Bellevue or via Zoom (see below). Shigaki will discuss her artwork where she and her friend Chris Rabb explore their respective Japanese American and African American histories, finding common ground and building solidarity. Shigaki’s “Never Again is Now” piece persists in the college’s courtyard on the third anniversary of the defacement. Zoom: https:// bellevuecollege.zoom.us/j/8540382 3554?pwd=dng1bVZLSDE2a2NNVz VLcnRLaVR0Zz09, Meeting ID: 854 0382 3554, Passcode: 169741. For further information, contact Sunny at:

FEBRUARY

"My Lost Freedom — A Japanese American World War II Story” children’s picture book — by actor George Takei with illustrations by Michelle Reis. Southern Books in Tokyo, Japan, is currently crowdfunding thru Feb 5 to translate and publish the non-

fiction book. It depicts Takei’s life in a Japanese-American internment camp. His career spans six decades, a Grammy-nominated artist and New York Times bestselling author. Takei appeared in over 40 films and hundreds of television roles, most notably as Hikaru Sulu on Star Trek. See: https:// greenfunding.jp/thousandsofbooks/ projects/8629.

Jack the Giant — by artist June Sekiguchi. A new outdoor sculpture commissioned by the City of Seattle Office of Arts & Culture. Based on the children's game of jacks, this sculpture is the largest iteration the artist has produced. The nostalgic incarnation of a jack is located at the Seattle Center by the Mural Amphitheatre - the epicenter of festivals, culture and play. On view through Feb 2025. https:// www.JuneSekiguchi.com.

Save The Date: Annual Wing Luke Dinner & Auction Sat, Mar 22. Location to be announced. Community support allows us to continue telling AANHPI stories, to engage with youth through our education programs, and to be a place where people can discover and make history. See: wingluke.org.

By Barbara Mizoguchi NAP Editor

Those of us who have an interest or a background in the arts look forward to Seattle Art Fair each summer. Afterwards, we reminisce about all the beautiful and innovative work seen, admire the new piece purchased or wish we had made the purchase of a particular item. It is also a time to reconnect with colleagues, artists, and friends; and a time to meet new artists and gallery owners.

Although Japanese and Japanese American artists exhibit their works at Art Fair, only three galleries from Japan were represented this year. One of them has been graciously staying in touch with The North American Post. It is YUKI-SIS Gallery from Kayabachō in Tokyo, Japan owned by Yuki Terashima. She has been participating in the Seattle Art Fair since 2017. She also participates at other art fairs around the U.S. and

Artwork from Japan Presented in Seattle

other countries.

Terashima was born in Niigata, Japan and has been living in Tokyo since she was 18 years old. She studied English, French, and Italian but maintained her English by making friends at art fairs and other events. Terashima has been doing art fairs across the U.S., Belgium, and Germany. Preparing a booth elsewhere is a lot of work, crating and shipping the artwork, packing equipment and materials, finding a hotel, and keeping up with the art fair’s schedule. A person also stands in the booth all day for several days, talking with potential customers, then packing and crating for the next destination. It must also be difficult travelling to a foreign country and going through customs each time. However, Terashima takes it all in stride since she has been doing this for 25 years and has owned her gallery for 12 years. Before that, Terashima was still in the arts working at other galleries, doing film festivals, and managing musicians.Back in her gallery, Terashima is drawn to artwork that is beautiful, captivating, and elegant. An example of such an artist is Chika Hattori. She had her work displayed at the Seattle Art Fair in the YUKISIS booth, and visitors were drawn to her paintings. The canvases were of large, soft shapes with familiar colors. Nature comes to mind. Hattori says, “The main motifs in this show are sea creatures. Their colors and shapes are so delicate, beautiful, and full of life that I could not help but paint them.” One begins to see foliage, shells,

and octopus tenacles. Hattori’s eye for seeing the beauty in sea life and nature is unique which comes across well in her artwork. When viewing the work more closely, one wonders, “How did she paint this?” It is ethereal and cloud-like. Hattori says that she visits botanical gardens or riverside areas for inspiration. She even looks at biology books or videos. After cropping and sketching what she sees, she then determines the size and composition before painting. Hattori loves the freedom to concentrate on her artwork and be herself. Although life as an artist can be financially difficult, she says, “I am most fulfilled when I am painting for myself.” She finds painting a natural part of her life and cannot imagine being distracted by an office job, raising children, etc. Hattori was born in Tokyo and learned English in New Zealand. She was an art teacher in Japan and an artist simultaneously; but it was difficult managing both.

So, she gave up teaching to paint full-time. She is lucky enough to live and work in Japan at her mother’s house which provides enough space to do large paintings. Hattori never gets stuck creatively. She has so many ideas, yet she is very aware when her senses are dull. It is important to Hattori that her mental health is balanced so she can remain calm and not rush in her work. Otherwise, it allows Hattori to let her emotions take over and create.

Seventeen years ago, Hattori exhibited her work in New York and has since been showing at other art fairs. As her work was displayed at YUKI-SIS Gallery, Terashima invited Hattori to come to the Seattle Art Fair where she has participated for the past two years. She is now travelling to art fairs in other countries.

The 2025 Seattle Art Fair is scheduled for July 17-20, 2025, at Lumen Field in Seattle. See: https://seattleartfair.com/ for more information. YUKI-SIS Gallery will be there. See: http://yuki-sis.com/. More about Chika Hattori can be found at: http://www.gallery-tsubaki. net/artist/chika_hattori/chika_ hattori.html.

riding the dragon, 2024. Oil on canvas, 80.3x116.7cm.

Photo credit: Chika Hattori.

flow with the flow, 2024. Oil on canvas, Photo credit: Chika Hattori.

By Gail Nomura NAP Contributor

Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church (Blaine) on Beacon Hill in Seattle, Washington, is well known as a community space as well as a church. While many churches are closing or finding other ways to use its buildings and property, Blaine has robust and growing programs of its own. It also makes its facilities available for everything from political candidate forums to community basketball teams to local crafts fairs.

The church was first known as Seattle Japanese Methodist Episcopal Church when it was founded on January 28, 1904. Blaine’s history is tied to the larger history of Seattle and the role of pioneering missionary Reverend David Blaine, his wife Catherine, and son, Edward Linn Blaine. E. L. Blaine, was integral to the church’s place in Seattle throughout his life.

He continued to support the church until his death in 1954. In 1956, the church was renamed in honor of the late E. L. Blaine. He was a prominent Seattle civic leader and First United Methodist Church lay leader. Because Japanese were not allowed to own real estate, E. L. Blaine held the title to Blaine’s first church located on Washington Street in central Seattle. When the congregation was forcibly removed to American concentration camps during WWII in 1942, he looked after the property, where members stored their belongings.

Blaine was first an English-language

Resilience Through 120 Years!

ministry for the immigrant Issei (first generation Japanese American). It developed and nurtured a Japaneselanguage division for the Americanborn generations that followed. Today, while Blaine is still rooted in its Japanese American heritage, it is a multiethnic, multigenerational and reconciling congregation that supports LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer or Questioning) rights. One of the meeting rooms at Blaine is named in honor of the late Bob Webb, a former Tuskegee Airman (first group of Black U.S. military pilots and airmen who served in World War II), who lived in Seattle for more than 40 years.

The church has grown and thrived through periods of good and bad times. Despite facing anti-Japanese and anti-immigrant, and discriminatory sentiment throughout much of its earliest decades, the church built a strong faith community. Blaine supports its members and serves the larger communities through local, national, and global missions; including advocacy for social justice and equity. The church also participated in the Seattle’s first open housing march as allies of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church. In more recent years, Blaine has been active in advocating for immigrant rights. The Asian Counseling and Referral Service started mental health counseling in a borrowed Blaine Sunday School room and Blaine continues to raise thousands of dollars for its Walk for Rice event.

Other current community partners

include Tsuru for Solidarity, Atlantic Street Center, Kimball Elementary School, and Mission Guatemala. In 2012, Blaine was honored by the International Examiner’s Community Voice Award for its long history of community service. Blaine will commemorate its 120 years of faith and mission on January 26, 2025 with an anniversary Sunday service. Special guests will help celebrate and reflect on its long history. The church looks forward to further growth and development in the next 120 years of service in love.

www.napost.com/ napost.com/ja

CELEBRATING 120 YEARS BLAINE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

ALL ARE WELCOME

January 26, 2025 Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church

3001 24th Avenue South Seattle

10:00 AM: Sanctuary service with special guests.

12:00 PM: Lee Activities Center potluck program and historic exhibits.

Please bring a potluck dish to share.

Additional parking is available at Kimball Elementary School.

Office Phone: 206-723-1536. Email: blaineoffice@yahoo.com. URL: https://blaineonline.org/ contact/. Contact Person: Rev. Karen Yokota Love.

レニア吟社新年一人一句２０２5年

初レニアさりげなく雲流れ行く初詣屋台の多き浅草寺四世代の集合写真お正月早起きの子らの声して年新た百歳の母の賀状に蟹文字も去年今年執念深く蛇の年お正月家族写真に笑顔満つ後光さす雪山の気や初祝詞又姪らはにかみ貰ふお年玉なよやかや初凪にさす櫂の音初富士や明日母国を飛び発たん初凪や空の青さのつきづきし鏡餅今年はアレがのつてない年新た父の写真を真ん中に身支度に始まる母の初詣御慶言ひ出会ひに感謝する心喰積に並ぶ娘の飾切春着子の写真収まる澄まし顔良き事で埋め尽くしたり初日記姫めくり札の山取る歌カルタ赤き屠蘇古里思ひ杯挙げりお年玉ドローン空へあやつる手故国より年賀一枚届きけり白味噌に餡餅浮かぶ雑煮かな

2025年へ

文：佐々木志峰

2025年を迎えようとしている。巳へびどし年。脱皮をする蛇のイメージから、「変化」や「再生」の意味合いがあるといわれる。21 世紀では四半世紀最後の年。大

統領選挙で米国は政権が変わるが、世界を含めてどのような一年となっていくだろうか。

周年ものを見てみると、日本では多数の企業が節目を迎え、 2000社が100周年を迎えるといったものも目にした。さまざまなところで記念行事やイベントが企画されることだろう。日本相撲協会は設立100年になり、日本で初めてマヨネーズを製造・販売した「キューピーマヨネーズ」も100周年を祝う。

日米関係の側面で忘れてはいけないのが、第二次世界大戦を終えてから80年となることだ。シアトルの姉妹都市神戸を襲った阪神淡路大震災からは30年。当地を拠点とする企業として、マイクロソフト社が創業50年となるようだ。

また第二次世界大戦同様、泥沼化する戦争、紛争に区切りがついたものとして、ベトナム戦争のサイゴン陥落から50年になる。

さてあっという間だった 2024 年。日本では漢字能力検定協会が募集し、選ばれた「今年の漢字」は「金」だった。毎年恒例、 30回目となる企画で「金」が選ばれたのは2000年、12年、16 年、20年に続き５回目となる。

世界中虹がまたがる夢をみぬ友の逝きたる三日目のこと

ラインウェバー友子

吉原クリステイ光風スティーブンス多喜子

バクマスター絵美

加藤わか葉ナッシュ恭子

吉迫まありい

澤野井一樹

長野弘子りょうこアワキビ柏なをき

卜円伎鬼細野やすい井伊辰也もちぱん

渡辺菜穂

ミラーこうし汀泉信子

シアトル短歌会詠草２０２5 年新年御題『夢』

五輪、パラリンピック、大谷翔平選手といったスポーツ関連、そして新紙幣の20年ぶりの発行といった話題に加え、物価高や闇バイト、衆議院選挙でも注目された政治とカネといった問題まで。明暗を示した一文字といえるだろうか。世界情勢を示すとされる「金価格」の高騰といったものもあるだろう。

夢にまで英語をしゃべる我はもうアメリカに来て半世紀経る

貧困の青春なれど夢のみは大きく持ちぬ戦後に生きて

うしろから愛おしき気配にいだかれて迷夢なれどもたち去りがたく

外出の際いつも夫の声かけし「 Becareful

真夜中に寝言つぶやく愛猫の吾と変わらぬ夢みる姿

ふと吾も老後の夢を見始める

故国と世界を駆け巡ること

」に夢より醒める

過去の執筆を振り返ってみると、昨年は最後の一文で「平和や幸せを思い起こす一文字で表せる一年であってほしい」と新年を祈願していた。2025年こそ、そうした一文字で締めたい。

個人的に感慨深いものとしては、黒人の公民権を広く認める公民権投票法（Civil Right Act）の成立から60年になるということを知った。今秋半ばにメンフィスへ出張の機会があり、キング牧師の暗殺現場でもある公民権博物館に足を運んだばかりだった。

土居万亀子

田宮愛子

楠見房子

キャンプレーン久美子

リーあふひ

西田伊津子まゆみ

New Wave - Abstract Movement -Tetraptych, 30x 96 inch - Handcrafted, Oil-stained Wood/ Paper Mosaic Painting, Acrylic, Washi, 2023RW Art of Japonism Design by Naoko Morisawa / Morisawa Studio www.naokomorisawa.com

空があり大地に土と草があり陽光のある小さな自由＊手をつなぎ横断歩道を渡るよな趣やさし母子草かな

町には「コキアの

今月の短歌担当：北里かおる今月は白樺ようこさんの歌を選びました。

新調のリュツクサツクと登山靴並べ待ち侘ぶ信濃への道米国の大統領選追つてゐる早朝に聴く毅郎スタンバイ＊縦横にコキアの茂みの連なりて海辺に続く初秋の丘に

の湯気は温かく慈雨の祝宴しみじみ味わう

遠い過去に忘れ去られた我が身なり歌を介して祖国との疎通

由ゆに仁

使わずに仕舞いこむのもつまらないテーブルクロス汚れるもよし違和感はやたらに「べさ」を繰り返すテレビドラマの北海道弁＊少しずつ今の自分を好きになる下手の横好き続けくるうち

＊花嫁の横の

こ子感涙祖母を見て

黄葉の一樹

夕ゆうかげ光を華やかに浴びてみずから光放すごと追憶の坩堝の中に吸い込まれ古きアルバムをしばしもとほる＊紅葉の隧道夫と車駆るにはかに車窓打つ横しぐれ

＊印の付いた歌は題詠です＊印のついた作者は、新かなで歌を詠んでいます

秋晴れの空大地と遊ぶ

いたずら天使か涙あふれる

白樺ようこ黄金に輝く麦穂波打ちて

詳細：https://emailtanka.blogspot.com/ 連絡先：638chiyoko@gmail.com Ｅメール短歌会 11 月の題詠

宇津木千代

北海道＊北里かおる

NAPジャパンツアーと共に、四国、宇和島へ

コロナウィルスからようやく解放！　と感じた2023年春、北米報知社（NAP）が企画している日本旅行が再開した。今年10月のツアーは四国への旅、ということで、私も沖縄から3 日間だけ合流した。20人ほどの参加者はほとんどが中高年層の日系人で、すぐ輪に溶け込んでしまった。

ツアーはシアトルを出発し羽田に到着後、約２週間かけて、羽田、高知、松山を巡る。私はその中盤の松山から宇和島をバスで一緒に回った。

愛媛県の名産はミカン、真鯛、カツオなど、おいしいものがいっぱい。道の駅を何カ所か回り、夕飯には鯛めしやカツオの刺身などを堪能。

マチの養殖が盛んで、養殖のために使われる餌の食べ残しが真珠養殖に必要な海を汚し、両立は困難とのこと。また、真珠の人気は流行に左右され（ミニスカートには似合わないらしい）、当時の海外向けの販売はアメリカを経由することが多く、国内外の景気、経済状況に左右される不安定な状況の中にあった。

養殖がダメなら加工して販売すればいい、という考えの2代目秀ひでのり徳さんは、真珠加工の免許を取り真珠加工販売部門を立ち上げた。しかし90年代は、漁場の荒廃やアコヤ貝の大量「異常へい死」勃発など、自然との闘いや過剰生産などに加え、バブル崩壊、世界的不況という外部要因との闘いの時代でもあった。

3代目社長、一徳さん。触っているのが日本のアコヤ貝。中央はオーストラリア産、一番手前がベトナム産

ツアーでは天神産紙工場で和紙の紙すき体験、四しまんと万十川遊覧、土居真珠工場、宇和島城など、一人旅では経験できないことを満喫した。

四万十川の屋形船では現地で捕れたアユの塩焼きが出され、アユの餌は何かという質問から、台風の被害の話へと広がった。アユは川底に生える苔を食べて生きている。四万十川は川底がなだらかで、風のない時はまるで池のように穏やかだ。そこに生える苔は泥が溜まって埋もれてしまうことが多く、川底を混ぜ返してくれる台風が年1回くらいは必要とのこと。ところがここ数年、年数回の台風に襲われ、2005年9月の台風14号では水位がおよそ10メートルも上がり、359戸に被害が及んだ（土木学会年次学術講演会講演概要集Vol.612）。そんな話はまるで嘘のように、池の水面と同じように穏やかな日差しの中で、アユの塩焼きを食べながらゆっくり下る遊覧船は、久々の癒しを与えてくれた。

四万十川の屋形船から。晴天に恵まれた

３代目一徳さんは、宇和島を訪れた観光客に養殖場を案内する真珠養殖体験ツアーを始める。そのほか、パールパウダーを使った化粧品作り、「パールエステ」の開発など、新しいことに挑戦している。パールパウダーの成分は美容、健康に良いとされ、現在化粧品、食品などの材料に使用されている。愛媛県資源循環優良リサイクル製品にも指定された。

一徳さんは、真珠に関する全ての物から可能性を掘り起こすことで、業界の活性化を目指している。祖父から受け継いだ、伝統真珠への熱い思いは世界一、と自負する。

私たちが見学したのは、核となる5ミリ強のドブ貝の貝殻を削って丸くした球（核）が、アコヤ貝の中で真珠としてコーティングされるように仕込む工程だ。帆立貝のような形をしたアコヤ貝は牡蠣の種類で、その貝柱は食用にもなる。貝殻の内側はアワビの貝の内側のように光り、美しい。貝のヒモの辺り3ミリほどの部分と、核となる球を生きている別のアコヤ貝に入れ込み、それが1、2年ほどで球をカバーしながら成長すると真珠になる。60パーセントくらいしか産出できないという。

その後2時間ほどバスに乗り、こじんまりとした夕暮れ間近い宇和島城を散策し、ホテルへ。

森口富士松氏と同じ宇和島市の出身、北米報知社発行人で前宇和島屋CEO 、トミオ・モリグチさんとは敬老ホーム関係でも親しかった。私自身、かつてシアトルに住んでいた頃お世話になった、当時まれなる女医。

宇和島城。夜はライトアップが美しい直美さんとトミオさん

宇和島市外れの海岸沿いにある土居真珠工場 (www:doi-pearl.co.jp) では、3代目社長、土居かずのり徳さんと加工販売部の清家直美さんが出迎えてくれた。直美さんは、1940年後半から活躍したシアトル初めての日系女性産婦人科医、ルビー・イノウエ先生の従妹の娘さんだ。故イノウエ先生はシアトルの宇和島屋創始者、