 | ||||
|
February 2009 |
|
Sangha
President’s
Message Richard Kai
I’ve been in the big chair for two months now; the view from the top is
both rewarding and exciting at the same time. The Board of Trustees
undertook several items of significance at its January meeting. The
first order of business before we could start our meeting was to consume
the wonderful ozoni soup and condiments prepared by Reiko, Gladys and
crew. Our special words of appreciation go out to this group’s hard
work, dedication and delicious meal to which we’ve all grown accustomed.
Some of the items discussed, approved or taken under consideration for
future Board action included:
2008 and 2009 Budget Review:
Income through November was $514,574 compared to $606,646 for expenses.
The expenses through November include two known extraordinary items that
the Board allocated $121,000 from the General Fund at its February 2008
meeting. Those were capital improvement costs to parking lot (repair the
trellis and repavement), and $50,000 donation to the Buddhist Churches
of America for the 21st Century Campaign. The budget report for November
presented by Treasurer Diane Muranaka was approved as submitted. The
2009 proposed budget will be presented at the Board’s February meeting.
Kaikan Chairs:
Wayne Kurahara presented the replacement chairs proposed to replace the
300-plus chairs used in the Kaikan. The new model is lightweight and
constructed in heavy plastic. The Board approved fronting the $20,000
needed to buy 400 chairs. Mr. Kurahara will draft a letter addressed to
the sangha asking for donations to supplement the $12,000 pledged from
the affiliated and sponsored organizations to offset the cost of the
chairs.
Ministerial Affairs:
Past President Allan Hoshida provided an update to the Board on the
Ministerial Affairs Committee’s process to identify and select a
full-time minister to fill behind Reverend Kaz’s planned reassignment as
of June 15. The committee has its sights on three potential candidates
and has asked Rinban Oshita to schedule a meeting with Socho Ogui to
discuss the minister selection process.
An historical event occurred during the month of January with the
inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th president of the United States
of America. Who would have thought Americans would vote into office a
person of African-American descent to serve as the person to lead the
most powerful nation in the world? Change is the theme of the
President’s term of office; however, the meaning and use of the word has
no political affiliation. Change is a concept introduced by many before
Obama, with little tangible results that have been sustainable over
time. Meaningful change can occur only if done unselfishly, and everyone
pulling and pushing at the same cadence and direction. The sooner we
lose our attachments signifying our resistance to change, the earlier
the nation can recover from its current economic and political unrest. Rinban Bob Oshita
Hello…and welcome to the month of February. As we enter the second month
of the year 2009, Patti and I will be once again in Japan. For years
now, Patti has expressed the wish to experience the famous “Yuki
Matsuri” (Snow Festival) in Sapporo. I have never been one who enjoys
the cold. When I was living in Kyoto 35 winters ago, I was quite content
to see the televised images of the festival’s massive and beautiful ice
sculptures in the comfort of my well-heated room. When Reverend Yukawa
and Michiko suggested this trip, I said to Patti, “This is will be your
one chance to go,” And so we’re off.
It is not often that we plan and take a special trip knowing well that
this will most likely be the one and only. But in Buddhism we are always
encouraged to open our Dharma Eyes and see that every day we live is a
“one and only” experience. Every moment we live is one that will never
come again.
Too easily we take for granted the days we live. Too often we fail to
appreciate the moments we have to be with those we love. And when we do
this, we close our Dharma Eyes. But when we experience the reality of
Impermanence, when we are made to know the loss of someone we love, we
cannot help but awaken again to what is truly of value in life.
When our Dharma Eyes open, we see again that every single day, rain or
shine, hot or cold, is a wonderful day. Every opportunity to be with
those we love is one to cherish. In Jodo Shinshu, to live with such
Awareness and Appreciation is “A life of Nembutsu.”
As we prepare to go to Sapporo, I’ve been checking the weather reports
online. The high temperature today will be a brisk 28 degrees! But rain
or shine, hot or freezing cold, I will try to appreciate this
opportunity to fulfill one of the minor items on my loving wife’s
“bucket list.”
Let us all do our best to keep our Dharma Eyes open and appreciate the
people and moments that make our lives what they are. Let us try our
best to live “a life of Nembutsu.”
Looking forward to seeing you February 15!
Tim Castle
The Dharma of coffee…It only takes one pot!
Not sure how a story is going to end when this is the first line, but
I’ll give it away…it is a happy ending.
When visitors come to the Sacramento Betsuin on Sundays they are amazed
at what happens outside in our courtyard. Their first question is
usually, “What is the special occasion?” when they see all of the food
and treats that our Sangha eagerly lines up for. They are even more
surprised to find that every week, the generosity and hard work of so
many provide all of this. But there is much more than full bellies that
make these Sunday treats so special.
When the Castle family started coming to the SBC back in 1993, after
service, parents would walk their kids to their Dharma School classroom
and then scatter. Some would go to Target, others to their cars to read
the Sunday newspaper, and others off to the “freeway market” for some
fresh produce. If you were lucky, you may see 10-12 people milling
around the courtyard.
Then, a couple of our most dedicated Sangha members, Sam Adachi and Sam
Abe, got the simple idea to plug in a coffee pot in the main hallway by
the courtyard entrance. Why? Hey, maybe they wanted to drink coffee too,
but I think it was a simple example of every day unselfish giving.
Pretty soon, there was quite a crowd in the hallway blocking things up!
So, Sam and Sam moved their coffee-shop location for a short stay in the
kaikan. Pretty soon, there were fewer and fewer people leaving the
church during class time, and more and more staying back. Why? Was the
coffee really that good? Did Starbucks need to worry about the SBC
coffee shop? You bet…but it was even better than that. Coffee was just
an excuse to hang around and talk story. Our Sangha is family at SBC,
and with most families, we just needed a simple reason to stick around.
As with most good things, coffee in the kaikan had to come to an end.
Too many spills on the wood floor and Sam and Sam’s coffee needed a new
location. The current location in the courtyard was the perfect
location. Spills could be easily managed, the open space of the
courtyard allowed for spontaneous games of tag while parents and friends
simply took time to talk. Of course, once the coffee business was a firm
success, Reiko, Gladys and the crew took over…but that is another
Sangha article!
Our hondo is still the most important part of our temple. Our weekly
dharma sessions provide us all a chance to hit that pause button and
remember to reflect upon the nembutsu teaching. But everyone who
experiences our temple knows that all the rooms, hallways, kaikan and
courtyard are all “family rooms.” As with our own family, we know that
everyone always gathers in the kitchen to eat, talk story, and have a
chance to catch up. As a family, as a Sangha, we know that every get
together is special because we never know for sure how many more Sundays
we will have together. So next Sunday, remember that your time in the
courtyard is special and give thanks to the best coffee shop in town
where everyone knows your name. The Dharma of coffee…Namo Amida Butsu Greeters’ Program
From The Office
Thanks to Bill Hatano, Ted Ito and Mary Ann Miyao for getting our church
calendars ready for mailing. Church MaintenanceEd Imai Let's Buy Some Chairs
Wayne Kurahara
ABA President
If you have not noticed, the yellow stack chairs in the kaikan are in
need of replacement. These chairs were purchased in the 1960s. At about
50 years old, they have served a lifetime of heavy use and should be
replaced. We have looked into repair, but the repair work would be
difficult, expensive and would not extend their life beyond a few years.
Their replacement was discussed with the Board of Trustees and the Board
has approved doing so. The Board also agreed to a funding proposal where
all of the affiliated and sponsored groups that frequently use the
chairs would fund the major portion, with the balance to be funded by
individual church members.
The total cost of replacement is approximately $20,000. This amount
includes the cost of the chairs at about $50 each and chair storage
racks. Of the total cost, approximately $12,000 will be funded by the
affiliated and sponsored groups. That leaves $8,000 to be funded by
individuals and/or the General Fund of the Betsuin. Although the General
Fund can and will be used if necessary, it is preferable that it instead
be used for other maintenance and repair projects that are planned in
the next two years.
If you would like to “Buy a chair” (or maybe two or more), please make a
donation to the “Chair Fund.” You can do so by mailing or leaving your
donation at the church office. Indicate that the donation is for the
“Chair Fund.” Any amount, large or small, will be greatly appreciated.
Then, in the near future, when you are sitting down in a nice new stack
chair, you can think to yourself that you helped to pay for it. As soon
as our goal is reached, you’ll be advised. But any extra beyond the cost
of the replacement of the chairs will be placed in the General Fund to
help cover costs of the maintenance and repair projects.
If you have any questions, please ask one of the Adult Buddhist
Association (ABA) members or myself as we are taking a lead on this
project. I can be reached at 392-3022 or by leaving a message in the
church office. If you would like to join ABA, application forms are
posted on the bulletin board.
Valerie Fong
Through the generous donations of our Sangha members and friends of the
Sacramento Betsuin, the Legacy Endowment Fund (LEF) continues to grow.
This fund helps to support special projects and programs, such as the
ministers’ assistants Program. In 2007, the LEF Board provided some of
the funds for the Ministers’ Assistants to travel to Japan to receive
their Kyoshi certification. We are very pleased to share reflections
from our first LEF recipients…Patti Oshita, and Carol and Tim Castle.
“When the idea of Kyoshi was initially discussed at the end of 2006,
Patti, Carol and I knew that this would be a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity, and an opportunity that would mean a great deal of work.
First, we had to study for roughly six months before our four-hour
Hongwanji-proctored Kyoshi exam in June 2007. After that, it was tough
waiting for exam results while still having to prepare for our December
2007 Kyoshi session.
“Besides the studying and ritual practice, there were many other things
to plan for, such as fundraising activities, and being away from our
families and work. Yes, the reality of finances was also a major factor
in our going to Japan. Examination fees, program fees, books, supplies,
and travel costs would exceed $14,000 for the three of us. Simply put,
without the generosity of the LEF and the support of the Sacramento
Betsuin, we could not have gone to Kyoto for our Kyoshi certification.
“Thanks to the hard work, generosity, and support of so many people and
organizations at the Betsuin, Patti, Carol and I were able to travel to
Kyoto for the very intense 11 days of training at the Nishiyama Betsuin.
In looking back at our experience, we are reminded of life changing days
filled with studying, lectures, practicing for services, and
opportunities to participate in and lead services. Each day started
before 5 a.m. and lasted past 11 p.m. each evening.
“Our memories include leading early morning services in the 38-degree
Betsuin Hondo, participating in the very difficult Toriban ritual during
the Shoshin Nembutsuge-saho, and being able to participate in lectures
with well-respected scholars, such as Reverend Hisao Inagaki, Reverend
Michio Tokunaga, Reverend Toshikazu Arai, and the head of the Liturgy
Department at Hongwanji, Reverend Yamamoto. But do not think that we did
not laugh, too! We have many memories of warm friendships and goofy
things we did along the way to remind us that after it was all was said
and done, we simply did our best.
“During Kyoshi, our efforts were to again revisit and focus on one of
the most basic teachings that Reverend Yukawa and Reverend Bob started
us off with back in 2001…do everything with a true sense of heart. It is
with this sense of heart that we look forward to sharing what we have
learned with the Betsuin Sangha and those from the surrounding temples.
Our gratitude to the LEF Board for helping us reach Kyoshi is immense.
Thank you, again, for your friendship and generous support.”
In Gassho, Patti, Carol and Tim
Michiko Imai
Tsugiye Imoto
In Memory of Hatsuye Imoto
Emiko Ishimoto
In Memory of Kiyoshi Ishimoto
Emiko Masunaga
In Memory of Toshiko Inaba
Sadao Nagao
April Adachi
In Memory of James Adachi
Misato Furuike
In Memory of Ukio Furuike
Sadako Furuike
In Memory of Ukio Furuike
Midori Ito
Joe & Alice Kataoka
In Memory of Father, Shigeo Takeda
Toshie Kobata
Aki & Lillian Kushida
In Memory of Sagami Tanihana
Tom & Pat Matsumoto
In Memory of Ukio Furuike
Rose Watanabe
Tom & Ichiko Fujishima
Susie Imai
Eleanor Nobuye
Yoshiko Sasamoto
Alan Wu
Well, hello there, and welcome to another issue of the
Sangha. By the clock on
the wall, we can see that it is February 2009, and not only does that
mean it is once again the shortest month of the year, it also means that
this month comes and goes muy rapido! (For Steve Kawano, that
means the month goes by really fast.) Speaking of Steve, as our
magnificent chairman of the Bazaar has proclaimed, our 63rd Annual
Bazaar this year will be held on August 8-9, 2009. I know for most of
us, that is just fine and dandy, but it is still eight months away, so
we don’t have to worry about that right now. Well, for some of us, the
wheels are in motion right now to get everything prepared for that
second weekend in August, and Steve and the steering committee are
already working on the behind-the-scenes preparations, such as: How much
beer to order!
Enough of all that August talk, let’s spin it back to the here and now.
Oops, I think I overshot a little bit, I ended up back to December. Oh
well, since I’m here I might as well talk about our mochi tsuki that was
held on December 13, 2008. This year we cooked 1,475 pounds of rice or
kome as I have been informed, which is the most we have ever
attempted. Our Mochi Queen Laura was very confident that our crew could
handle the increase in poundage, and as it turned out, she was right!
The extra volume was barely noticeable, and as a result, we had another
successful mochi tsuki.
Many thanks go out to all our sports families for working their shifts
and also being available Friday evening to help set up the kaikan. Of
course, a big event like this would not be the same without having all
the food and drink available for our hard workers. So, great big hugs
and kisses go out to Reiko and Crew for prepping and coming out so early
to keep us well nourished throughout our day of toil. An extra big wet
and sloppy kiss and hug goes out to Sam, who every year goes out way
beyond the call of duty to sell our extra mochi at the Oto’s SuperStore
Emporium on Freeport Boulevard. Thank you Sam for all you do for us.
Last but not least, we would like to give our wettest and sloppiest kiss
and hug to Laura SooHoo for her many years of service as our Mochi
Queen. So as the winds of impermanence blow, so does our Mochi Queen.
After a long and successful reign, Queen Laura has decided to retire as
our Mochi Queen. The Sports Committee would like thank you Laura for all
your hard work and dedication to our mochi; you did a spectacular job.
When you get bored with nothing to do, you can always come back to the
committee in whatever capacity.
So, with the retirement of Queen Laura, we would like to welcome our new
Mochi Queen, Debbie Yokota. Debbie shadowed Laura during this year’s
mochi tsuki, so she is now all ready to grab the mochi with both hands
and pinch them off into little bite size pieces . . . or something like
that. Anyway, hail to our new Mochi Queen Debbie!
Okay, now we need to go forward a couple of months. I suppose February
would be a good place to stop. The basketball season begins to wind down
in February, and as we play our last few weeks of league games, many
teams begin to turn their attention to the upcoming tournaments. The
first tournament of the season will be our very own 38th Annual
Basketball Tournament on March 7 and 8. Stay tuned for more details.
Now let us adjourn out to the garden and have a seat under the Bodhi
Tree and see what we have in our inbox:
Dear Bodhi Tree,
I was really surprised by the letter that was submitted last month. I
really had no idea that people acted that way at basketball games. So,
in the weeks after reading that letter, I went to the games and tried to
just be more observant to how the other people were behaving, and even
though I did not see anything like what was described, I could see a lot
of tendencies toward that end. Seeing adults yelling and criticizing
other adults and the kids made me cognizant to what I was otherwise deaf
and blind to before.
Then I heard stories about how there were other incidences that involved
other church teams where things really got out of hand on the court and
also afterward off the court.
My eyes are definitely open now.
Dear Opened Eyes,
Yes, generally speaking, the way people approach youth sports is very
subtle and if you are out there just trying to enjoy the game for what
it is, a child’s game, you could easily miss the overtones from those
who are not out there to enjoy the child’s game, if you know what I
mean. Many people who are very smart say that those people are reliving
their youth through their children. If that is the case, then that
raises even more questions.
Yes, word has traveled about that were other incidences involving the
older age divisions, and fortunately none of them involved our teams or
our players. But unfortunately, this is yet just another indication of
how our approach to youth sports is cockeyed and out of alignment. Just
like when a chiropractor goes in and realigns your spine when it gets
out of whack, and then you can walk again, we need something like that
to come in and straighten out this whacked out mindset towards youth
sports. It is understood that the NCCL has specific policies addressing
this sort of behavior, so it is hoped that a lesson is learned here; but
only time will tell.
Thank you for your letter.
Signed: Bodhi Tree (BT)
We appreciate your letters. Hopefully, we can change the topic for next
month’s garden stop. You know, something light like Why is there air? Oh
yeah, we already answered that question a few months ago . . remember?
Send your letters to: sbcbodhitree@yahoo.com
See you in 28 days.
Important dates to remember:
February 1 – Super Bowl Sunday
March 7-8 – 38th Annual Betsuin Basketball Tournament
March 14-15 – SJUMC Basketball Tournament lower divisions
March 21-22 – SJUMC Basketball Tournament upper divisions
March 27-29 – SASF Basketball Tournament
Ken Hashimoto
Masami Iwasa
Jean Kaneko
Akito Masaki
Don & Marcia Matsuda
Ralph & Ruby Nishimi
Ted Oto
Jim Fujii
Jack & Anne Akabori
Mark & Courtney Amioka
Carey Covey, Satsuka Ina
Mas & Toshi Fujikawa
Ken Furukawa
Furukawa Family
Jim & Yuki Hashisaka
Billy & Grace Hatano
Hiroko Hayashi
Don & Kathy Henry
Michiko Imai
Geoffrey & Sherri Inenaga
Harry & Mary Inouye
Don Ishii
John Kaneko
George Kashiwagi
Sandra Kataoka
Hodge Kawakami
Machiko Kimura
Van Le
Teruko Makishima
Rachel & Ikuo Nagai
Darryl Nishikawa
June Nishikawa
Hisa Nishimura
Tom & Judy Nishimura
George & Masako Okabe
Eiichi & Michiko Okamoto
Esther Sakata
Midori Sunahara
Shannon Suo
Takashi & Irene Tsujita
P. K. Yamamoto
Cliff Adams & Ann Amioka
Betty Amioka
Allan & Meriko Hoshida
Irene Kishaba
George Morita
M/M Ken Murai
Wil & Pauline Nishina
M/M Kinya Noguchi
Ken Okuhara
Alan & Louise Uota
Dr. & Mrs. Elliott Wong
Goichi & Alice Hamamoto
Ruth Hayashi
Ronald Hirohata
Yuji Kaneko
Amy Masaki
Mickey Tanaka
Hiroshi & Fujie Urakawa
Gary & Lucy Yamada
Fusaye Yokoyama
Ruby Akiyoshi
Miyoko Carter
Tom Fujishima
Max Hamamoto
Yosh & Esther Hokama
M/M Frank Ikemoto
Ed Imai
Edward Inaba
Rieko Inaba
Joey Ishihara
M/M Giichi Ishisaka
Edward Ito
Ted & Tak Ito
Richard & Janet Kashiwada
Molly Kimura
Ben & Teruyo Kunibe
Kikuye Makishima
Kimiko Masunaga
Chiyeko Masuoka
Akio Miura
Grace Miyamoto
Ed & Janet Mizutani
Grace Nakao
Koji Nishimoto
Toshio Nishimoto
Jan Okimoto
Tsutomu & Jean Ota
Shuny Sagara
Dr. & Mrs. Robert Sahara
Joyce Sasaki
Masaaki Tademaru
Jim & Tomi Tanaka
M/M James Tsuda
Umeko Tsushima
Marian Uchida
Junichi Yamamoto
M/M Katsumi Yamamoto
Lillian Yamauchi
Koki Abe
George & Mary Amemiya
Saiko Amioka
M/M Nori Aoki
Michael Dishno
Alfred & Kazuko Dote
Takayuki & Seiko Dote
Lorna Fong
Sadako Furuike
Fujiye Haramoto
Dennis & Nancy Hashimoto
Katsumi Hashimoto
Art Hayashida
Roy Higashino
Bill & Kikuye Hirohata
George Hiromoto
Amy Hironaka
Fred & Doris Hirotani
M/M Donald Honda
Wayne Horita
Glenn & Doreen Hosokawa
David & May Ikemoto
Thomas & Harriet Ikemoto
Tsuyuko Ikemoto
N. Imamura
M/M Roy Imura
Harley & Judy Inaba
Misao Inaba
Jeanette Inouye
Eiko Irokawa
Minnie Iseri
Fumie Ishihara
Ron & Ellen Ishimoto
John & Marlene Itagaki
Frank & Ellen Ito
Robert & Norma Ito
Stan & Nancy Ito
Eugene & Jane Itogawa
Kent & Libby Iwamura
Miyoko Iwata
Richard Kai
Sheryl Kajioka
Ken & Hazel Kamada
Harry Kashiwada
Stephen & Keiko Jean Kashiwada
Joe & Alice Kataoka
Keith & Shirley Kato
Bob & Teri Kawamoto
M/M Tak Kawamoto
Shig Kawamoto
Shigeo & Joy Kihara
Emiko Kimura
Wayne & Cindy Kitade
Isamu & Toshie Kobata
Iwao Kobayashi
Kikuyo Kodakari
Frances Kondo
Gayle M. Kono
Suenari & Alma Koyasako
Tom & Carol Kudow
Mitsy Kumasaki
May Kurimoto
Doris Kuroko
Alice Kurotori
Dennis & Sylvia Lau
Leonard Lew
Ben Makishima
Emmie Makishima
Joan & Tomio Masaki
M/M Greg Matayoshi
Ken Matsumoto
Tom Matsumoto
Dennis & Stacy Matsunami
June Matsuo
David & Edith Matsuoka
Tosh & Betty Matsuura
Frank Menda
Janie Mitsuhashi
Jack & Harumi Miura
Naomi Miyao
Peggy Miyata
Gary Muramoto
Mitzie Muramoto
Gerald & Diane Muranaka
Vernon & Yuki Myers
Fred & Rose Nagao
Carolyn & Mas Nagata
Bob & Tara Nakano
Betty Nakayama
Henry Nishikawa
Yutaka Nishikawa
Mike & Aileen Nishio
Eleanor Nobuye
M/M Harry Noguchi
Herbert & Mieko Ogata
Mitsu & Suwako Ogata
Shige & Marie Okada
Barbara Okimoto
Mitsuye Okubo
Ray & Shizu Onga
Katherine Onuki
Mary Orite
Sam Orite
Hitoshi Ota
Shigeru Ota
Ted Otani
M/M Russell Oto
Joan Ouchida
Hideko Sakazaki
Shoya & Ikuko Sakazaki
Tak Saruwatari
Sachiko Sawada
Ted & Helen Sekikawa
M/M Akio Seo
Dr. & Mrs. Robert M. Shimada
Karen Shimada
Sam & Fumie Shimada
Shig Shimazu
George & Alice Shimizu
Tom Shimizu
Tomio & Michiko Shimizu
Asa & Martha Shintaku
M/M Makoto Shirai
Fred Shirasago
Dr. & Mrs. Henry Sugiyama
Hiroshi Tabata
Randy & Denise Tahara
Barbara Takai
Adell Takata
Rose Takata
Mervin & Carol Tamai
Haruko Tanaka
Joe Tanaka
M/M Ernest Tanaka
Shigeko Tanaka
Tadashi Tanaka
Henny & Linda Tomoda Toy
Henry & Mary Tsukiji
Mel & Virginia Uchida
H. Umeda
Kay & Fusaye Urakawa
Joe & Hisashi Urokogata
Dolly Uyeno
Helen Wada
Paul & Jacquelyn Wakabayashi
M/M Louie Watanabe
Rose Watanabe
Jeff & Donna Wong
Stan & Florence Wong
Karen Yamada
Mitsuo Yamada
Richard & Sally Yamaichi
Eiji & Kathleen Yamamoto
Hiroshi Yamamoto
Kaneo Yamamoto
Robert & Kathy Yamamoto
Sumiko Yamamoto
James Yamauchi
John & Elaine Yoshikawa
Ted & Sharon Yoshimura
Keith & Karen Adachi
Sam Adachi
May Arai
M/M Tim Chang
Steve & Junko Egi
Carole Fukumoto
Harry Hamamoto
Sally Sadaka Hamatake
Hattori Family
Teruko Hirakida
Donna Hiromoto
Mitsuji Hironaka
Irene Hoshiko
Tokuko Ida
M/M Derek Ikami
Emiko Ishimoto
Gary & Yvonne Ishimoto
Kathryn Ishimoto
Sam Ito
Stephen & Paula Ito
Terry Kagiyama
Saoko Kaita
Sue Ann Kashiwagi
Kaye Kato
James Kawano
Thomas Kawano
Nobuko Kawasaki
Toshiko Kawasaki
May Kim
Eiko Kimura
Utako Kimura
Mitsuko Kitade
Jimmie & Sayo Kiyama
Masaaki Kobayashi
Tomiko Kohaya
Akira Kosaka
Ben Kotani
Reiko Kurahara
Gail Kurihara
Frank Kusunoki
Anna Louie
Genevieve Masuhara
Janet Matsumoto
Teiko Matsuo
Mary Matsuoka
Phyllis Matsuura
Ben & Ine Mayeda
M/M Harry Miwa
Mitsuye Mori
Tomako Mori
Yoshiko Morisawa
M/M Hitoshi John Morita
M/M Robert Morita
Margie Morita
Dennis & Carolyn Murata
Richard & Irene Nabeta Yee
Lorraine Nagae
Sadao Nagao
Jane Nakagawa
Kiyoshi Nakagawa
Elsie Nakamura
Mar Nakata
Rita Nikaido-Yuke
Jerry Nishimoto
Mineko Nishimoto
George & Jane Nishimura
Mikio Nishioka
Joe Nishisaki
Craig Nishite
Austin & Wendy Nodohara
M/M Isamu Nojiri
Kahn Oda
Hisa Ohara
Shig & Peggy Ohara
M/M Mitch Okamoto
Myra Okasaki
Yukie Okasaki
Arlene Okino
Harue Okino
Haru Osaki
Alice Otani
Hiroshi Oto
Mieko Oto
Sylvia & Ron Ouchida
Piper-Pell Family
Darlene Saito
Bernard & Judy Sakamoto
Yoshiko Sasamoto
Alan & Annette Sato
Gertrude Sato
Katherine Sato
Derek & Audrey Seo
Dave Shimada
Kay Shimada
Sheila Shimada
Wakako Shimazu
Al & Hiroko Shimizu
Ben & Lois Shimomura
Sam & Mary Shimono
Roy Shintani
David & Jean Shiomoto
Tracy & Mari Shirasago
Wada & Tim Shironaka
Bob Sumida
Misako Takeuchi
Bob & Elaine Tanaka
Haruyo Louise Tanaka
Kiyo Tanaka
Minoru Tanaka
Ruth Toyota
Gary Traganza
Terry Uyeminami
Faye Uyemura
Kent & Veronica Yabumoto
Mitsura Yagura
George & Reiko Yamamoto
Tsuneko Yamasaki
William & Mary Yamasaki
Haruo Yamashita
David & Teri Yasuda
Lisa & William Yip
Fred & Jane Yokoi
Kiyomi Yokota
April Adachi
Dorothy Egi
Yoshie Iwasaki
Steve Kotani
Keiko Makishima
Tsugi Makishima
Grace Morimoto
Fumiye Nakagaki
Tetsuo & Yoshiko Pat Okamoto
Yoshiko Okamoto
Chizuko Sakaishi
Thomas Sasaki
Ben & Jeanne Sato
Sachiko Shimada
Betty Tabata
Helen Tanaka
Ty Tayama
Amy K. Uyeda
Chieko Yagi
Yoshiko Baba
Yoshiko Daikai
Sachiko Horizumi
Sachiko Inokuma
M/M Takuhei Iseri
Joe Kadokawa
Mitsuye Kitajima
Peggy Kono
Aiko Kurosaka
Fusako Morisaki
Fumiko Morishige
Yaoko Najima
Gary & Mitzi Nakashima
Shizuko Nojima
Teruko Ono
Lilly Sakai
Mae Shigaki
Muroko Shijo
James Shimada
Nancy Shimizu
Sadako Takaki
Ai Tanaka
Toyoko Teraura
Ruby Waki
Hiko Yagi
Edmund Yee Masako Thomas Contact Masako Thomas at (916) 482-8770 or e-mail: sakurahanami@hotmail.com Ken Furukawa
IMPERMANENCE and INTERDEPENDENCE, two of the hallmark teachings of Jodo
Shinshu, brought to the forefront by an old aunt at the end of her life,
for me and my family at her funeral. This was the reality that struck me
at the funeral service for my aunt in Guadalupe this week.
She had always been quiet, patient and seemingly understanding all those
years ago when I grew up in Santa Maria. And she was always so when I
visited those rare occasions as an adult with and without my wife and
children. But she also had an understanding of the nature of things that
I did not recognize. She quietly led her life to be a better person,
mother, grandmother, without the fuss and bother of our busy lives.
During those years she was a Dharma School teacher and helped with the
Fujinkai and raised her family. She dealt with highs and lows of farming
life, and the death of her husband so many years ago.
But in her late 80s, when she died last week, she left us a path to
follow, and a lesson in life and death. As Reverend Fujii said during
her service, she showed us the path that we all will follow. We will all
die; it is a matter of how we live our lives that really counts. In this
way, if we live a life of Nembutsu, we will understand and appreciate
it. At that time, Namo Amida Butsu seemed to mean something more.
As the Dharma School term progresses, we will soon be asking for
volunteers to participate in the Hanamatsuri play. Rumor has it that the
basic draft of the play has been created, and so the Dharma School
teachers will soon be coming up with fun and exciting dance routines for
the lower division classes. The upper division students will be asked to
participate in supporting the play and service in many ways.
Dharma School also has needs for teachers! As we all know, Reverend Kaz
will finish out this term as 7th grade teacher ... so we need a
teacher(s) for next year! Also, Marc Ely needs at least a part-time
replacement for In Search Of (11th and 12th grades) ASAP! Please ask
them what the classes are like and what they are planning. We will be
looking for volunteers soon!
Donations
Dharma School “courtyard” gratefully acknowledge donations from the
following:
Misao Abe
Leanne & Keri Castle
Eric Fujii
Naomi Hamamoto
Bill & Grace Hatano
George & Sachi Hiromoto
Michi Imai
John & Marlene Itagaki
Tak Ito
Ted & Tak Ito
Jim & Jean Kawano
Alice Kataoka
Machiko Kimura
Utako Kimura
Lynn Kurahara
Doris Kuroko
Bruce & Martha Kushida
Eleanor Nobuye
Edith & David Matsuoka
Ed & Janet Mizutani
Yo Morisawa
Gerald & Diane Muranaka
Sandy Nishii
Kanji Nishijima Family
Judy Nishimura
Nursery I & II
Ken Okuhara
Oto’s Marketplace
Hiroko Takamoto
Judy Takeuchi
Jim & Hiroko Tsuda
Haruo & Sueko Yamashita Boy ScoutsDrew Quan
In the month of December, Troop 50 had held many activities and events
that were very memorable. The monthly theme was hobbies/holiday recess
where Scouts were able to show off their collections to the troop. On
December 12, Troop 50 held its monthly Greenbar meeting, also including
an IMAX and overnighter at the Buddhist Church. The Scouts who went to
the IMAX movie had to walk there in the freezing cold, but it was really
worth it after seeing Madagascar 2. Matt said, “Even though it was a
little chilly outside, it was still awesome!” On December 19 there was a
crab feed committee leader/ co-leader meeting where the parents were
able to decide what they wanted to do for the crab feed.
Also during this month was
Benjamin, Bryant, Eric, Evan, Jordan’s Eagle
Court of Honor where they were honored with the rank of Eagle Scout.
Jordan exclaimed, “Yes! This is one of the greatest achievements in my
life and I am so glad I stuck with Boy Scouts even through the ups and
downs. I also want to congratulate the other Eagles for their great work
and commitment they had to this troop.” This event was one of the
greatest highlights of this month. Everyone gathered to see these Scouts
finally complete their goals as a Scout.
Within the month of January was also another busy month for Troop 50. On
January 9 there was a Greenbar, troop meeting and parent meeting. Winter
camping was this month’s theme so the troop learned about how to prepare
for cold and also were informed on what gear to use and bring during the
winter. Troop 50 has been on a roll in these past months and hopefully
they are able to keep it up
Girl Scouts Troop 569Susan Honda-Takeda
Seniors 5 would like to congratulate Candace Lee and Rachel Kitagawa for
earning their Silver Award. Candace coordinated and led a Try-It
activity with a Brownie troop and prepared the materials to earn a
Try-It for future Brownie troops. The Senior 5 girls assisted Candace
and helped the Brownies with the crafts and activities that were
planned. Rachel coordinated a pre-school class at the Mayhew Baptist
Church. She developed religious materials and craft activities to teach
the students about their religion. The pre-school class has been
continuing at the church and has received many compliments from the
church members.
During December, the girls coordinated a pizza night to put together
items to donate to the Eskaton Center on Florin Road. The girls went to
the senior center and while they were passing out the items, they talked
to the seniors and wished them happy holidays.
Our Cadettes #2 girls donated games/toys (in lieu of a gift exchange) to
the Ronald McDonald House on December 19. Sacramento Buddhist Women’s Association Sandra Nishimura-Yee
January’s SBWA Board Meeting was held on Wednesday, January 7. This
year’s goal is to recruit more members. Please pass on the word to
any ladies who are interested in joining the SBWA. Membership
application forms are available at the church.
DONATIONS AND ACKNOWLEDGMENTS: Tomi Shimamoto and Mari Shimamoto Bonenkai and New Member Mollie Oto In Memory of Shirley Yagi Geraldine Tsukiji In Memory of Mildred Nakano
Special thanks for all the Bonenkai donations totaling
$2,290
Also, a special thank you to Hiroko Tsuda, Sueko Yamashita, Heidi
Sakazaki, Jean Ota, Teiko Matsuo, Marcia Matsuda, Alice Kataoka, Vi
Hatano, Terry Kagiyama, Miyo Iwata, Fumi Ishihara, Reiko Kurahara,
and Gladys Adachi for helping the Sports Organization with making of
the Kasane sets at Mochi Tsuki. The Sports Organization is truly
appreciative of all your help.
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS:
February 7Origami Cranes for Peace Leadership Workshop
The Florin Japanese American Citizens League and the Consulate
General of Japan in San Francisco are presenting the workshop from
10 a.m. to noon. Refreshments will be provided. The workshop is
being held at the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department Community
Room, 7000 65th Street, Sacramento, behind the Burlington Coat
Factory. Please RSVP at (916) 487-1414 if you are planning to
attend.
At the workshop you will: learn how to fold origami cranes and learn
strategies on how to fold origami cranes, and be taught how to
properly string the cranes for display; be told the story of Sadako
Sasaki, a courageous victim of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima;
learn about activities to educate and engage people for a peaceful
world; have an opportunity to exchange ideas with other attendees
for projects and events; and receive a packet including
informational materials and origami paper. You will also have an
opportunity to win a trip for two to Hiroshima! This workshop is
free.
February 8
Eshinniko, Kakushinniko and the Lady Yoshiko Ohtani Memorial Service
and Luncheon.
The lunch will begin at noon followed by the service at 1 p.m. The
price of the bento lunch is $8. Please contact your SBWA phone tree
representative or the church by January 26 if you are interested in
the bento. A receipt will be mailed to you before the memorial
service date. Please bring the receipt with you.
March 15
Spring Food Festival
Please mark your calendars. Preparation for the Spring Food Festival
will be on Saturday, March 14. More details will follow.
April 18
Nihonmachi, The Place to Be
1 p.m. and 7 p.m. performances at the Sacramento Buddhist Church
The performance is sponsored by the Sacramento Buddhist Church, the
Asian Community Center and the Sacramento Japanese United Methodist
Church. Produced by the Grateful Crane Ensemble, a Los Angeles-based
non-profit theater company, and the same group that did “Camp
Dance.” If you enjoyed “Camp Dance,” you will surely enjoy
Nihonmachi. Please contact Lynn Kurahara at 392-3022 for tickets of
$30 per person.
The next SBWA board meeting will be on February 4.
Sign Up for Kundalini Yoga Sponsored by ABA
- Reduce stress, increase ability to relaxand quiet the mind.
- Learn powerful, effective breath techniques (pranayama).
- Learn mantras, mudras, meditations.
- Increase flexibility and state of well-being.
- Appropriate for beginning and continuing students of all ages.
ABA is sponsoring an ongoing series of Kundalini Yoga classes, which
began Wednesday, January 14 and run through March 18. Held from 10
a.m.-11 a.m. at the kaikan, the cost is $5 per class on a drop-in basis;
there is a discounted rate when the remaining classes in the series are
paid in advvance. Just show up and register before the beginning of
class.
Jim Deneff was certified to teach Kundalini yoga by Dr. Siri Gian Singh
Khalsa in 1998 and has been teaching for 11 years. He currently
instructs Kundalini at the Sacramento Yoga Center and at the Sacramento
City Parks and Recreation Department. He has taught yoga for ABA for one
year.
Bring a small, firm cushion for sitting, and a mat or thick blanket;
also, a warm blanket for covering yourself during rest periods. Wear
loose, comfortable clothing, and bring a bottle of water. It is
advisable to eat only very lightly prior to class. For more information
about Kundalini Yoga, please visit www.Priya Yoga.org or
call Jim at (916) 806-0623.
You may also contact:
Buddhist Church office
Meri or Tak (916) 446-0121
ABA, Sharon Yoshimura
(916) 421-4740/601-3000 Funerals Nishijima Family In Memory of Kanji Nishijima M/M C. S. Tsuda In Memory of Toshiko Tsuda Nancy Takashiro, Frances Yoshimiya In Memory of William Seiji Susie Yamashita In Memory of Jun Yamashita Ken & Elizabeth Nakamura In Memory of Kanji Nishijima David Taketa In Memory of Kanji Nishijima Ken Hashimoto In Memory of Kanji Nishijima M/M Akito Masaki In Memory of Kanji Nishijima Kats & Dorothy Hashimoto In Memory of Kanji Nishijima Bonnie & Cliff Okamoto In Memory of Kanji Nishijima
Larry & Louise Davatz In Memory of Rudolph & Madge Davatz and In Memory of Jim & Tamiko Kai M/M James Satake 3rd Year for Michael Keikoan Hayashi Family 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Maizie Hiromoto 49th Day for Harold Hiromoto Kiyoka Kawamura 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura and 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Emiko Masunaga 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Kei Miyano 1st Year for Jean Miyano Toko Fujii Family 7th Year for Toko Fujii Judy Brewster In Memory of Tom Brewster Lori Fujikawa In Memory of Parents, Jim Fujikawa (4th Year) and Terry Fujikawa (85th Birthday) Gail Keikoan 3rd Year for Michael Keikoan Bruce Keikoan Family 3rd Year for Michael Keikoan Teruko Makishima 1st Year for Jean Miyano Akio Miura 1st Year for Hajime Miura Yoneo Miura 1st Year for Hajime Miura Ron & Frances Sato 3rd Year for Michael Keikoan Louie & Emi Watanabe 1st Year for Jean Miyano Katsumi & Helen Yamamoto In Memory of Fusakichi Dairiki Betty Amioka 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura and 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Saiko Amioka 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura and 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Ann Amioka, Cliff Adams, Sydney Adams 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura and 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Amos & Mary Freeman In Memory of Larry & Chris Nakashima Rieko Inaba 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Ronald Kashiwase 15th Year for Chris Nakashima Ronald Kashiwase 5th Year for Larry Nakashima Ronald Kashiwase 25th Year for Hank Uchigoshi Dorothy Kumasaki 3rd Year for Yoshito Kumasaki Sachie Kumasaki 3rd Year for Yoshito Kumasaki Michiko Kunishi, JoAnn Fukushima, Robert Fujita 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Jean Matsuura 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Sherry Meline In Memory of Hisako Shibata Renee Nishikawa 49th Day for Harold Hiromoto M/M John Sakamoto In Memory of Carol Sakamoto Shoya & Ikuko Sakazaki 49th Day for Haruo Hiromoto Frank Yokoi In Memory of Yuki Yoko Lisa Fukushima, Jonathan Lum, Stephanie Fukushima, Timothy Richardson 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi M/M Dennis Muramoto Family 49th Day for Stanley Hayashida George & Chieko Nishi 49th Day for Harold Hiromoto Ryan & Kevin Ono In Memory of Yoshiko Nakatomi M/M Kazuo Tsujimoto 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Clyde, Tammi, Kellie & Kaelin Uchida 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Kiyoshi & Mario Hayashi 49th Day for Stanley Hayashi Teresa Kato In Memory of Larry & Chris Nakashima M/M Ted Kobata, Glenn Kobata 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura and 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Jason Taira Family 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Mark & Courtney Amioka 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Mark & Courtney Amioka 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura Tokuko Ida 1st Year for Sakon Roy Takenaga Gloria Inaba 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Harley & Judy Inaba In Memory of Toshiko Inaba Harley & Judy Inaba In Memory of Shiro Masunaga Misao Inaba 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga M/M Yoshio Iwasa In Memory of Masao & Caroline Kawamura Anna Louie In Memory of Kenny Y. Mori Craig Makishima 1st Year for Jean Miyano Royce Makishima Family 1st Year for Jean Miyano Tomako Ann Mori In Memory of Kenny Y. Mori M/M Raymond Okubo 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Ray & Chizu Onga 1st Year for Sakon Roy Takenaga Kaoru Ouye 1st Year for Caroline Kawamura Kaoru Ouye 33rd Year for Masao Kawamura M/M Louie Watanabe 49th Day for Harold Hiromoto Steven Yokoi In Memory of Yuri Yokoi Teruko Goto In Memory of Yuki Yokoi Robert & Eng Ho Iwasa In Memory of Masao Kawamura & Caroline Kawamura Donald Inaba 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga May Kamikawa In Memory of Haruki Uchigoshi Sharon Kotabe 49th Day for Shiro Masunaga Akiko Koyama In Memory of Sakaye Aoki Kay Shimada 49th Day for Harold Hiromoto Mr. & Mrs. Richard Yamaichi In Memory of Yukiko Enkoji Kiyo Yokota Family 1st Year for Sakon Roy Takenaga Misao Inaba In Memory of Toshiko Inaba Mary Matsumoto In Memory of Kajuto Masumoto Tomako Ann Mori In Memory of Seichi Shintaku
Sacramento ABA Purchase of New Chairs Sacramento Betsuin Women's Association Purchase of New Chairs Jean Kaneko Special Donation American River Care Home Special Donation Ken Furukawa & Leilani Ito Special Donation Julie Kubo Special Donation Doris Matsui Special Donation Mary Ann Miyao Special Donation Naomi & Bob Burmeister Special Donation George & Bette Morita Happy New Year Lester & Diane Nakao Marriage of Lester & Diane Nakao Lorraine Nagae Building Fund Meri & Wayne Fong Happy New Year Riverside Tanoshimi Kai Riverside Tanoshimi Kai Tours Thomas Okamoto Happy New Year Kochi Kenjin Kai In Appreciation Stephen Chan Special Donation David & Jane Fong Special Donation Russell & Carol Hirano Special Donation Barry & May Lee Special Donation Shigeru Shimazu Happy New Year Spencer & Mavis Wong Special Donation Anonymous Ojuzu Repair
Building Fund
Anonymous
Endowment Fund Anonymous Legacy Endowment Fund Anonymous Legacy Endowment Fund Ted & Helen Sekikawa Legacy Endowment Fund Akio & Ruth Seo Ken Furukawa & Leilani Ito Alice Kawada, Janice & Steven Muraki In Memory of Charles Kawada John & Marlene Itagaki New Student to Dharma School Mary Fong Hoonko Wayne Kurahara Ted & Pat Otani In Memory of Bob & Machiko Fujitani, In Memory of George & Kimiko Otani George & Mary Amemiya In Memory of Kanji Nishijima George & Mary Amemiya In Memory of Jun Yamashita George & Amiko Kashiwagi In Memory of Sachihiko Yamamoto Kelvin Mark Hoonko
Nokotsudo Bruce Aoki In Memory of George Aoki Louie & Emi Watanabe Flowers for Nokotsudo |
|
David & Lily Hasegawa
Judy Louie
Allison Nagao-Dutra
Lori & Robert Yamaguchi
Lester Nakao & Diane Tanaka
December 27, 2008
David Hasagewa & Lily Fong
January 11, 2009 Condolences to the Families of
Akiko Murphy
October 9, 1943 – December 24, 2008
Frank Miwa
December 16, 1922 – December 24, 2008
Jun Yamashita
December 7, 1923 – December 24, 2008
Frank Miwa
December 16, 1922 – December 24, 2008
Kanji Nishijima
March 23, 1922 – December 30, 2008 |
