SEJSCC board members and honored guests. Front row, from left: Ted Yoshimura, Karrie Takeuchi, Kimie Matsumoto, Richard Shinomoto, Japanese Consul General Kenko Sone, Mami Sone, Norwalk Mayor Margarita Rios, Norwalk School Board member Jose Rios, Cerritos City Councilmember Frank Yokoyama, Linda Kusuda, Miki Suzuki. Back from, from left: Fred Matsumoto, Tye Masaki, Masa Lau, ABC Unified School District Vice President Ernie Nishii.

Southeast Japanese School and Community Center opened the summer festival season on June 8 and 9 with delicious food, games, exhibits, entertainment, and bingo.

Many of us used this opportunity to relax, visit with old friends and meet new friends.

To help us celebrate our 61stSummer Cultural Festival, we were honored to have Norwalk Mayor Margarita Rios and her husband, Jose Rios, Norwalk School Board member; Cerritos City Councilmember Frank Yokoyama; and the Honorable Japanese Consul General Kenko Sone.

Our entertainment included: Kozue Matsumoto’s Koto Ensemble, The Hawaiian Delites, Kamake Keawe’s Ukulele Jammers, Kekaimoku’s Hawaiian Dancers, and Hikari Taiko.

There was a show-stopping performance when Shiho Tendou danced to “Tabaru Zaka.” Audience member Fei Kanoholani said, “Her dance was so beautiful, it brought tears to my eyes.”

Kozue Matsumoto’s Koto Ensemble. Koto clases are offered on Saturday afternoons at SEJSCC.
Shiho Tendou and students perform. Japanese dance class for children will begin in August at SEJSCC.

Ray Sakaida remarked, “Shiho Tendou danced from her soul.” He was captivated by her expressiveness. Ray, whose aunt was a classical dance teacher in Japan, added that Shiho is an exceptionally gifted artist and dancer, and must be seen to appreciate her artistry.

We are fortunate that Shiho Tendou is located in the Los Angeles area. She will be starting a Japanese dance class for children in August at the SEJSCC. For information, please call (562) 863-5996.

This summer season for celebration and dance is just starting. Be sure to visit the many Japanese festivals and Obons throughout the Southern California area. Enjoy the camaraderie and share the joy dancing in the community dance circle.