2014 Nihonmachi Street Fair Booklet

Additional support provided by

Sponsors of the 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair

August 2 & 3, 2014

Proud Sponsor of the 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 3

Welcome!

For the Community, Embracing All Comunities

Last year the Nihonmachi Street Fair celebrated a milestone reaching our 40th year. In a city

that prides itself in street fairs, the Nihonmachi Street Fair in Japantown (J-Town) seeks to

celebrate more than its Japanese-American roots it invites and encourages the inclusion of

diverse interests both Asian and non-Asian-Pacific based.

Back in 1973, the Nihonmachi Street Fair was hatched as an idea to provide leadership and

mentorship opportunities for the youth of J-Town and to honor the Asian American heritages.

As the Citys diversity and cultural awareness has grown, so has the street fairs focus. The

Nihonmachi Street Fair considers itself the original melting pot of street fairs, with many

aspects of Asian-Pacific American lifeand San Franciscos cultural lifeexpressed through

performance, tradition, art, music, food, and community outreach and service. The formula

must work since over 30,000 guests participated in the 2013 event and theyre still here to

celebrate its forty first year!

The Nihonmachi Street fair will once again be a showcase for local and uniquely San

Francisco talent and entertainment that spans cultural and generational genres: Taiko, hip-

hop, reggae, island, salsa, rock, jazz, spoken word and more on two anchor stages. Grammy

Award nominees playing back to back with upcoming musical talent.

The Nihonmachi Street Fair proudly evolves to reflect the city it celebrates while staying true

to its original idea: to use this event as a platform to mentor Asian-Pacific American youth

and foster their leadership and communication skills through volunteerism and community

service. The event is produced, staffed, and organized by volunteers, whom provide practical,

hands-on experience for our young volunteers. Here they learn to collaborate, organize and

take action.

Thank you to our many sponsors to Clear Channel Outdoor and the SFMTA who put the

Street Fair on the map and have helped this community festival be noticed. With your support

we will continue to be a Festival that is For the Community, Embracing All Communities.

4 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Food Fest: Local nonprofit organizations and small businesses serve various food items, including kabobs and BBQ, plate lunches, boba drinks, and kettle corn. Offering a mix of Asian Pacific flavors and American street fair delights, this years food vendors include JapaCurry, How Ya Bean, Saigon BBQ, and Bombzies BBQ. Local non-profit organizations like Kimochi, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, and Asian American Recovery Services will sell food as a fundraisers for their organizations.

Entertainment: From traditional hula dancing to jazz, reggae and hip-hop music acts, the event is known for its exciting and live performances. Attendees can catch a variety of dance demonstrations and cultural displays on two separate stages, the Webster Street Stage and the Clear Channel Outdoor Stage.

Childrens World: This section of the fair features Asian-inspired crafts and games that kids and families can participate in together. The 2014 Northern California Cherry Blossom Queen and her court will oversee the fun. The kids can learn about different cultures through fun activities, while being introduced to the Nihonmachi Street Fair experience, with the hope that they too will someday return to volunteer for the event when they get older.

Doggie World: Local animal experts and adoption agencies will be on hand to offer tips and information, and all are invited to enter their pups in the third annual Doggie World parade. This years proceeds from the Doggie Parade will benefit San Francisco Animal Care & Control and local rescue organizations. To register for the parade, please visit our Doggie World booth.

Asian Artisans: Participants can browse for fine handmade crafts, toys, clothing and other goods for sale in the Asian Artisans area, as well as meet the artists themselves, who come from all over the Bay Area and beyond; some of whom have been participants in the Nihonmachi Street Fair for more than 20 years. Some of the artisans at this years street fair include: Fat Rabbit Farm, Kimochi Inc., Sumofish, Waka by Waka Ozawa, and Kayoko Designs.

Nonprofit and Corporate Info Tables: Nihonmachi Street Fair features information tables for both non-profit and corporate organizations. This is a wonderful opportunity for fair attendees to learn more about various organizations, as well as for organizations to get involved in community outreach and network with a diverse crowd of youth, families, and seniors. Non-profit organizations including the Asian American Donor Program, Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, Nihonmachi Little Friends, the San Francisco Police Department Northern Station, will host information tables at this years event.

NEW FEATURES AT THIS YEARS NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR:

1ST Annual No. CA Adult Co-Ed Basketball Tournament: To celebrate the 41st anniversary of the Nihonmachi Street Fair in San Franciscos Japantown through bringing together adult men and women in a friendly basketball tournament in order to promote camaraderie between Asian American communities within the greater Bay Area and beyond. Come by the Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Northern California to see the action!

Sounds of Thunder Car Show: Muscle Car & Vintage Truck enthusiasts can stop by our Sounds of Thunder Car Show at lower Post. A non-competitive exhibit for local car owners to present to the public their custom cars. A great opportunity for you to learn more about muscle cars and vintage trucks from the owners themselves!

Something for Everyone!

The 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair invites the public to join us and celebrate our past, present, and future through education, service, entertainment, and fun!

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Back to Back Entertainment!

The Nihonmachi Street Fair Entertainment has always been one of the must see events of the summer. This year our two anchor stages: Webster Street Stage and the Clear Channel Outdoor Stage will showcase outstanding entertainment from various genres. From jazz to rhythm & blues, blue grass to Hawaiian ukelele & mele, youll see amazing talent which we are all so proud to present. All have supported not only the Nihonmachi Street Fair, but have lent their talent to many other nonprofits here and abroad. Spreading that community spirit, sharing the Aloha through their music and performance.

Clear Channel Outdoor Stage

Saturday, August 2

11:00 West Coast Lion Dance

11:30 Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band

12:15 Divas SF featuring Savannah Summers

12:45 Shogo Yamada & Friends

1:15 Mark Izu & Brenda Wong Aokis Kabuki Cabaret - featuring: Masaru Koga, Shoko Hikage, Janet Koike, Kenny Endo, Akira Tana, and Kai Kane Aoki Izu

1:45 Halau Ke `Olu Makani Ka `Ohu Mai Ka Lani, under the direction of Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel

2:15 Faith Ako and Friends

2:45 Akira Tana and OTONOWA (Sound Circle)

3:15 Makalii

3:45 Ben Ahn

4:15 Corey Wolffs

5:00 Curt Yagi & the People Standing Behind Me

Sunday, August 3

11:30 Blessed Love Gospel Reggae Band

12:00 Raymond Akahi Macapagal

12:30 Manuia Polynesian Revue

1:15 Francis Wong & Friends

1:45 Mango Kingz

2:30 San Francisco Taiko Dojo

3:15 Steven Espaniola

4:00 Nathan Aweau

Webster Street Stage

Saturday, August 2

11:00 Kevin Wong & The Bassment

12:00 Rockblood

1:00 Salsa Caliente featuring Gary Flores

2:00 Love Struck

3:00 Tracy Cruz

4:00 TBD

5:00 LP Band

Sunday, August 3

11:00 Dream Rush

12:00 TBD

1:00 Pacific Soul Band

2:00 Ascension

3:00 Big City Review

4:00 Johnny Hi-Fi

5:00 Rendezvous


Our Entertainers...

Akira Tana and OTONOWA (Sound Circle)The genesis of this group, Otonowa (Sound Circle) comes from the title a recording of the same name translated into English that was released a number of years ago in Japan on King Records and in the US on Evidence Music. The group, then, was called the Asian American Jazz Trio.

Three years ago this ensemble was reformed with the name Otonowa, having been a asked to perform for a benefit concert at the Elsewhere Gallery in Fairfax, Ca. for the victims of the Earthquake/Tsunami in Northern Japan. Subsequently this group performed at the first anniversary last year and after performing again in 2012 for the 2nd time, traveled to Northern Japan in March of 2013. Otonowa just completed a successful return trip in July of 2014 to the still rebuilding communities of Tohoku.

Otonowa features contemporary jazz interpretations of the songs of Japan, both old and new.

Ascension Ascension is an R&B/Funk-oriented cover band that is jam packed with talent and experience. Comprised of a hand-selected group of incredible artists, Ascension is a diverse group that is committed to consistently delivering mind-blowing performances. The line-up includes the powerful vocals of Judy Padilla and Ezekiel Ziek McCarter. On keys and background vocals is Rick Dorer and the smooth, classically trained Christian Houston. The outstanding bass lineup and beats are produced by Oshimin Oden and LaDante Smith, who keep the party jumping. The band is rounded out by the professional guitar tunes of Chis Meek.

Ben AhnBorn and raised on the island of Kaua`i, Ben studied the piano, trumpet, and baritone before taking up his four-stringed love. He moved to Oregon in 1999 to study at Southern Oregon University, where he began to take the stage regularly with a band, Melemana. With Ben on lead vocals and lead ukulele, the five-person group became a regular headliner in the local bar scene and recorded two self-produced albums before separating in 2004.

Big City RevueBig City Revues musical organization consists of versatile, seasoned musicians who understand the commitment of getting the music and sound right!!!but it doesnt end with the music! When youre talking Big City Revue, you have to factor in four of the most incredible performers in the industry. Lead vocalists Pam, Jayne, Phil and Jerry are the secret ingredient that drives the bands performance and truly sets them apart from the numerous bands that have followed in their footsteps.

Blessed Love Gospel Reggae BandSanctified and commissioned to reach the lost through the uncompromising Word of God with reggae music, and to disciple those who have been reached, to fulfill our Kingdom Assignment here on earth. Blessed shall you be when you come in and blessed shall you be when you go out. ~Deut. 28:6~ Blessed be the Lord forevermore! Amen and Amen. ~Ps. 89:52~ We are BLESSED LOVE GOSPEL REGGAE BAND

Corey WolffsCorey Wolffs is a classically trained violinist from San Mateo, California. By mixing his love of contemporary music, violin, and technology, he has created a unique urban sound that he has brought to stages across California and beyond. He has performed on television and on the radio and has competed in competitions such as MyxTV Press Play, Battle Among Talents, and Kollaboration SF. Morphing classical technique into contemporary music, he is the Bay Area Urbalinist.

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Curtis Yagi and The People Standing Behind MeSan Francisco based singer songwriter Curt Yagi has been on a tear through the Bay Area music scene. The 2008 Best of the Bay Singer Songwriter (SF Bay Guardian) has his song Sweep Me included on the very popular KFOG Local Scene 8 CD (hear what Renee Richardson of KFOG had to say) in the Bay Area. Curt and his full band, The People Standing Behind Me, are always-engaging to the crowd and bring a blend of happy acoustic rock with a touch of funk for flavor.

Divas SF featuring Savannah SummersThese Divas are professional entertainers here in San Francisco and their entertainment style ranges from Las Vegas impersonations to island style dances. Involved with many non profit organizations. These Divas who hold multiple titles, donate their time and talent to raise funds here in the Bay Area and abroad. Their Mission Statement is to promote equality for all, and share the spirit of Aloha.

Faith Ako and FriendsAs the Bay Areas premier female artist in Traditional/Contemporary Hawaiian music for more than a decade, Faith Ako has long graced the West Coast with her versatile voice. She won two Hawaiian Music Awards for her first album Kukahi, and her second album, Papaku Bring It Home, earned Faith a Hawaiian genre Grammy entry in 2010.

Faith continues to delight the crowds with her sultry voice and passion for Hawaiian music. Listening to Faiths leo nahenahe, will conjure the essence of island Aloha without ever leaving home.

Francis Wong & FriendsFew musicians are as accomplished as Francis Wong, considered one of the great saxophonists of his generation by the late jazz critic Phil Elwood. A prolific recording artist, Wong is featured on more than forty titles as a leader and sideman. For over two decades he has performed his innovative brand of jazz and creative music for audiences in North America, Asia, and Europe with such with such luminaries as Jon Jang, Tatsu Aoki, Genny Lim,William Roper, Bobby Bradford, John Tchicai, James Newton, Joseph Jarman, Don Moye and the late Glenn Horiuchi.

But to simply call the Bay Area native a musician would be to ignore his pioneering leadership in communities throughout Northern California. Wongs imaginative career straddles roles as varied as performing artist, youth mentor, composer, artistic director, community activist, non-profit organization manager, consultant, music producer, and academic lecturer. Key vehicles for his work are Asian Improv aRts, the company he co-founded with Jon Jang and as a Senior Fellow at the Wildflowers Institute.

Johnny Hi-FIWith over 10 years, 10 albums + EPs and numerous North America and Asia tours under their belt, Johnny HiFis alternative rock sound has captured fans all over the world. The band has made many appearances on TV and radio stations across the globe including MTV, CBS, and Billboard Magazine. They have also performed in more than 50 US cities and in countries such as Taiwan, Japan, China, Hong Kong and Canada. Johnny HiFi is now based in Los Angeles and working on new music, videos and tours. Connect with the band on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.


Kapalakiko Hawaiian BandThe Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band is an ohana [family] of Hawaiian music performers made up mostly of Overseas Hawaiians and Hawaiians at heart who are working to preserve and perpetuate the unique Hawaiian culture and local lifestyle. The basic performing unit of the band is a trio, but can be tailored to fit your event. We come with our aloha colors and our own sound system, so performances can be either acoustical or amplified electronically.

Halau Ke `Olu Makani Ka `Ohu Mai Ka Lani, under the direction of Kumu Hula Meleana ManuelHalau Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa is based in Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii. The halau is under the direction of Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel. Kumu Meleana received her uniki from Hula Master George Lanakilakeikiahialii Naope. The halau is currently in its 21st year and also has divisions in several areas of Japan. Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa was started in 1990. With a promise to her Kumu, Kumu Meleana opened the halau in order to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture and carry on the lineage of her hula tree. Their mission is to enlighten, encourage and educate all that seek knowledge through hula.

Kevin Wong & the BASSment Kevin Wong & the BASSment is composed of musicians who combine innate talent with sparkling original tunes, humor, style, and a dynamic musical signature that has garnered acclaim from the moment they first took the stage years ago. Guitarist Cedricke Dennis, drummer Dante McClinton and key bassist/organist and bandleader Kevin Wong make up one of the most unique & versatile bands. Kevin Wong & the BASSment combines jazz, blues, funk, soul, & everything in between to create a tasteful melange of musical chemistry.

Lovestruck Love Struck was formed by Paula Cladine Hobson-Soard and Jesus Angel Mora. The collaboration of their unique musical styles form a warm sensual upbeat jazz soft rock infusion sound that captivates and soothes the soul of the listener.

LP The LP Live Performance Band is one of SF Bay Areas talented groove bands, sharing their musical skills for over 10 years. Known for their vivacious sound of Funk, Motown R&B, and Top40 along with favorite cover-songs from the 60s to present, their passion for good music keeps the crowd captivated and ultimately singing along with every note! Among the members are seasoned professionals having shared the stage with The Whispers,Tower of Power, Pete Escovedo, ConFunkShun, Lava and EnVivo.

MakaliiMakalii is a contemporary Hawaiian music group out of the East Bay. Members include Keoki Cortez, Perry Perriera, Pierre Ramos, Jerry Gillgren, Roger T. The members of Makalii have an extensive performance history as artists/musicians. Each one of our members have performed for over forty years with other musicians/bands and are now creating music as Makalii.

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Mango KingzThe Mango Kingz are a group of five guys who have come together with the common passion for island style music and spreading aloha to those who love to groove. Mix Jawaiian reggae beats and catchy lyrics together and you get what the Mango Kingz are known for, that feel-good Island Flava music. Their music combines intricate vocal harmonies and an upbeat island tune for a style that appeals to the masses. With that in mind, for 14 years strong, theyve been working towards that dream to Spread a little Aloha around the world.

Mark Izu & Brenda Wong Aokis Kabuki Cabaret Featuring: Masaru Koga (winds), Shoko Hikage (bass koto & vocals), Janet Koike (taiko & percussion), Kenny Endo (taiko & percussion), Akira Tana (drum & vocal), and Kai Kane Aoki Izu (hip hop)

Emmy Award-winning composer Mark Izu and nationally-renown storyteller Brenda Wong Aoki join Asian American jazz musicians to perform spoken word and hip-hop dance from their fantasy musical MU. Izu and Aoki are designated artists for Suite J-Town, a 2015 event to celebrate S.F. Japantowns centennial. Nathan Aweau

Masaru Koga - Award-winning, multi-instrumentalist, Masaru Koga considers himself a product of the Japanese corporate globalization movement of the 1970s. Born in Chiba, Japan, his childhood and teenage years were spent living in Japan, the U.S. and what was then West Germany. He has been a part of its musical community for the past 15+ years.

Shoko Hikage - Began her koto playing at the age of three while growing up in Japan. She studied koto under Chizuga Kimura of the Ikuta-ryu Sokyoku Seigenkai in Akita Prefecture, Japan. Graduated from Takasaki College with a major in koto music, she was accepted as a special research student in Sawai Sokyoku In where she subsuquently received her masters certification. She continues her pursuits in improvisational dance and music here in San Francisco.

Janet Koike - Janet began her taiko training with San Francisco Taiko Dojo. After touring Indonesia with Keith Terrys Body Tjak, she returned to the US to complete her training with San Jose Taiko. As part of SJTs Artistic Staff, Janet contributed songs to their repertoire, and created a school program presented in over 75 schools. She continues to compose songs, many of which are part of Emeryville Taiko, Moab Taiko and Odaiko New Englands repertoire and is also director of the non-profit organization Rhythmix Cultural Works.

Kenny Endo - One of the leading artists in contemporary percussion and rhythm. He continues to pave new paths in this Japanese style drumming even after thirty-five years as a career taiko player. A performer, composer, and teacher of taiko Kenny Endo is a consummate artist, blending Japanese taiko with rhythms influenced from around the world into original melodies and improvisation.

Akira Tana - Recognized for his ability to ignite the spark of many top rhythm sections and create pure musical dialogue with mainstay soloists, his colorful interactive style has led to concert, club and recording work with jazz greats. Tana continues to be active on the international jazz scene touring extensively as well as performing locally in and around San Francisco with his own groups and groups led by others.

Kai Kane Aoki Izu - KK as he is known to the NSF family, began his formal dance training at the ODC School in San Francisco at the age of sixteen. He trained at both the California State Summer School for the Arts and the Alonzo King LINES Ballet Summer Program in 2010 and 2011. He is a QuestBridge scholar and ScholarMatch recipient. KK is passionate about dance and has appeared nationally and internationally on stages in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore and Australia.


Manuia Polynesian RevueMANUIA POLYNESIAN REVUE, a professional performance & award winning competitive dance company was founded in 1996 and is based in the San Francisco/Bay Area. Manuias goal, lead by Director Tommy Tualaulelei, is to show the beauty and excitement of the Polynesian Islands by performing the art of dance and music and most importantly respecting tradition and culture of all the Polynesian Islands. Our 150+ members include all races and genders. Ages range from 3 years to 75+ years. Our performances and activities include dancing, drumming, music and crafts from the islands of Tahiti, Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, New Zealand and Fiji.

Nathan AweauNathan Aweau has spent his entire lifetime in music. Born into a musical family (both his grandparents played various instruments,) Nathan includes the piano, ukulele, guitar, and saxophone amongst the instruments he plays. Then theres his voice, the voice. Smooth, contemporary, and mellifluous and definitely island-inspired. Two-time Grammy nominee and three times he was awarded Male Vocalist of the Year at the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards the Hawaii an equivalent of the Grammy Awards. He has received Hokus for Song of the Year and Contemporary Hawaii an Album of the Year. Nathan has received 14 Hokus throughout his career. In addition to his solo work, he has performed as a member of the band Hapa, performed with Hawaii an legend Don Ho, as well as a whos who of Hawaii an musical performers.

Pacific Soul BandWith a passion for music and creating high-caliber entertainment, Pacific Soul Band is ready for any venue. Providing live musical entertainment for events across the San Francisco bay area. This band is a party within itself. The Pacific Soul Band offers a unique blend of musicality covering music from R&B, Oldschool, Funk, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Neo-Soul, Soft Rock, and Top 40 dance tunes from the past and present. Bringing a new meaning to the term Family Band. Their smooth blend is due to singing together as a family over the years. Pacific Soul family Band will make your event memorable and have your guests leaving with a smile on their faces.

KalaBlind - Ramond Akahi MacapagalA self-taught skilled musician, KalaBlind brings to you the sounds of home through ukelele. I have been blind since birth, music has always been a big part of my life. Music influences ranging from Hawaiian, to Island Reggae, to Polynesian is what KalaBlind brings to the stage. KalaBlind is alwas open to make people smile thgouh music.

Rendezvous Come get down and groove to the jammin sounds of Rendezvous! Bringing the party to San Francisco Bay Area shows since 1995, Rendezvous has been igniting the dance floors, and jumping the crowds out of their seats with their vibrant vocals and highly spirited, upbeat performances. They are sure to get you shaking your hips and tapping your feet to your all-time favorites as you dance the day and night away!

RockbloodROCKBLOOD Band brings out the best in not usually heard blues and rock music. They are a tight very passionate group of musicians dedicated to leave a footprint of rockin badness of the blues!!!

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Salsa Caliente featuring Gary FloresGary Flores is the Bay Areas most renowned Latin Jazz musician today. A San Francisco native, hes played trumpet and piano alongside some of the greatest Latin Jazz musicians from New York to Puerto Rico. His musical creativity and individuality eventually ventured into another successful aspect of his career, Caliente 2000, a band where he enjoyed the freedom of playing with a multitude of Latin and Jazz icons.He is appearing this weekend with Salsa Caliente and together have been known as one of the best salsa bands in the Bay Area.

San Francisco Taiko DojoThe San Francisco Taiko Dojo is known throughout the world as one of the premiere practitioners of the Japanese drumming. Grand Master Seiichi Tanaka has been performing and teaching taiko in San Francisco since 1968. The essence of San Francisco Taiko Dojo is that it is not strictly a performance organization, but rather a school. Focusing on the spiritual and martial arts aspects of the art, the Dojo teaches not only the skillful playing of percussion instruments, but also the discipline of mind and body in the spirit of complete respect and unity among the drummers.

Shogo Yamada - Yamasho KaiOriginally from Osaka, Japan, Shogo Yamada has made the Bay Area his home for the past 47 years. An trained pianist, Shogo accompanied many American Standard and Jazz musicians at various night clubs and cabarets in Osaka and Tokyo. In 1967 he came to San Francisco where he joined Taiko Doki Kai (with Grand Master Seiichi Tanka), a precurser to SF Taiko Dojo and performed with them for 10 years. Shogo also was part of Japantowns famed, Shinsei Band. Shogo returns to Japan yearly partaking in the obon (honoring the spirits of ancestors) festivities throughout Japan. Kawachi Ondo a Japanese folk song that origniated in Osaka and is now performed throughout Japan during obon season. Accompanying Shogo are: Rimiko Burman (taiko), Hideo Date (guitar), Kayoko Tachibana & Ryuko Date (ohayashi - backup singers).

Steven EspaniolaRaised in Aliamanu, Hawaii and now residing in the California Bay Area, Steven is a multi-instrumentalist specializing in Ki Hoalu (Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar), Ukulele, Upright Bass, and Leo Kie Kie (Traditional Hawaiian falsetto). Of Hawaiian, Filipino and Spanish decent, his ethnicity is as diverse as his unique sound, which preserves the integrity of the traditional with a flourish of the modern.

Tracy CruzBorn in Quezon City on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, Tracy Cruzs alluring voice is comprised of sounds old and new, resembling Jill Scotts throaty moans and Sarah Vaughans lyrical accentuation, all while still managing to remain distinct. With a vocal range that stretches from unbelievable lows to soprano highs, Tracy pulls from her thriving passion of Filipino ballads.

West Coast Lion DanceLocated in Daly City, California, the West Coast Lion Dance Troupe was formed in 1988 by a cadre of veteran lion dancers, of which, the troupes leader and founder was Tony Shiu, who first started lion dancing in 1976. The main goal of the West Coast Lion Dance Troupe is to pass on the traditional art of Chinese lion dancing, along with the culture and customs that makes up lion dancing.

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In the spirit of Aloha, the Nihonmachi Street Fair has been presenting the Aloha by the Bay music series as part of our fundraising efforts. It is our hope that through these concerts, we can

build friendship and bring together the many talented musicians locally and abroad.

For more information visit our website: www.alohabythebay.org

TM


For the past three years Nihonmachi Street Fair has become a dog friendly fair, highlighting

Bay Area pet rescue organization. From dogs to cats, from birds to bunnies.the fair gives

the community an opportunity to visit with bay area rescue organizations all in one location.

This year Doggie World will feature a parade with the goal of 100 dogs participating. The

parade will be kicked off with the 2014 Cherry Blossom Queen and her court escorting

dogs for adoption. Partial proceeds from the parade registration ($20 per dog) will go to the

San Francisco Animal Control Center and other local rescues. The fun parade will march

through Buchanan Mall and end in front of the Peace Plaza for a Yappy Hour finish.

Doggie World is sponsored by San Franciscos Arguello Pet Hospital. Dr. Mike Ina and Dr.

Jamie Ina along with their staff and other pet care professionals, provide free pet care advice

on Saturday and Sunday.

To register your dog for the Doggie World parade on Sunday, August 3rd at 1 pm come

to the Doggie Word Information booth.

A Doggie Dog World

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 15

This years Doggie World Parade benefits SF Animal Care & Control and other local rescue shelters

Friends of San Francisco Animal Care and Control (FSFACC) is a nonprofit established in 2000 that raises funds for the San Francisco municipal animal shelter (SF/ACC) and its rescue partners in order to enhance or establish programs and services that benefit animals and serve and educate the public. SFACC is the citys open-admission animal shelter, providing housing, care and medical treatment to wild, exotic and domestic stray, lost, abandoned sick, injured and/or surrendered animals.

Tonis Kitty Rescue - is an active, dedicated community of volunteers who provide foster care for sick, orphaned kittens that are too young to be considered adoptable. TKR works hand in hand with San Francisco Animal Care and Control to create and deliver life giving resources to homeless cats and kittens.

Northern California Family Dog Rescue, started in 2010, is dedicated to caring for our family-friendly dogs and ultimately finding them a forever home. Their special mission to select dogs that do well with kids and adults.

Save A Bunny - believes that all companion rabbits are worthy of a safe, loving home regardless of breed purity, pedigree, or temperament. The rescue group serves both the people and animals in the community through adoption, advocacy, education, outreach, and rescue options.

Wonder Dog Rescue is a dedicated volunteer group, serving the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, and rescuing dogs from all over Northern and Central California. Wonder Dog Rescue has saved blind and deaf dogs, puppies as young as two weeks and seniors as old as 15! We offer hospice to special needs and elderly dogs, caring for them until the end of their lives.

MickaCoo Pigeon & Dove Rescue saves domestic (unreleasable) birds that would otherwise be killed in San Francisco Bay Area animal shelters. They provide vet care, foster homes, and adoptions. MickaCoo rescued 186 birds in 2012!

Any Dog Rescue of Vallejo helps any dog that needs assistance regardless of shape, size, age, or color including all mix breeds. We assist Terriers, Chihuahuas, Labs, Shepherds, Collies, Boxers, Pitbulls, Mastiffs etc. We get them out of shelters to save lives, find better homes if they are being abused, and assist their current home with pet coaching to improve their quality of life.

PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support) believes that the healing impact of the human-animal bond is one of the best supports available for medically vulnerable individuals, and mounting evidence indicates that this bond can yield valuable health outcomes. Animal companionship becomes even more important when our human contacts diminish because of aging or illness. PAWS is able to provide needed companion animal services to hundreds of low-income San Franciscans so they continue to benefit from the healing power and unconditional love of their beloved pets.

Animal Rescue Organization


AsianWeek Foundation, along with community leaders and elected officials broke ground this past April on the citys first ever Asian Community Garden located at the cul-de-sac at Williams Ave. and Diana St. in the Bayview District.

The green space, approximately one acre in size, will help new immigrants lead healthy lifestyles, grow and share fresh produce, and showcase Asian plants and features to be enjoyed by people of all backgrounds. There will also be space for exercise activities such as Tai Chi. Landscaping will showcase an intersection of native and traditional Asian plants.

The garden will be called the Florence Fang Asian Community Garden, named after long time community leader Florence Fang. Other major supporters and sponsors include: The Aetna Foundation, SF Department of the Environment, DoormanSF, Discount Builders, Recology, USF School of Architecture and Community Design, and Quesada Gardens Initiative.

This project is the first Asian-themed public and open space on the Southeast side of the City, said Supervisor Malia Cohen, who played an instrumental role in shaping this project. It reflects the growing diversity we have in the Southeast and provides a place for local residents to invest in healthy lifestyles and sustainable practices, including growing fresh produce. Supervisor Cohen represents District 10, which includes Bayview; she also sits on the CalTrain Board of Directors.

The Bayview/Hunters Point is one of San Franciscos fastest demographically changing neighborhoods, with Asian/Pacific Islanders now the largest population group. Organizers found that

42 percent of households immediately surrounding the site are owned by Asian/Pacific Islanders. The site sits above an operational CalTrain tunnel and was home to the Diana Street Farm, San Franciscos last farm.

Studies indicate that Asians overwhelmingly consider themselves to be environmentalists. This project brings together and develops the community by tapping into that huge potential. We hope their working together around this garden will also improve the well-being and safety of the neighborhood, said Ted Fang, Director of the AsianWeek Foundation which launched the Green Initiative for Asian Families in 2012.

San Franciscos Bayview has been called a food swamp where food is available but not necessarily healthy, affordable or culturally appropriate. Asian immigrants are particularly challenged with new studies showing they have twice the risk of diabetes and some of the fastest-growing rates of obesity among all ethnic groups.

Organizers have been conducting on-going community and neighborhood meetings as well as door-to-door outreach since last year to solicit community input and involvement to help determine the final look and feel of the garden space. Different areas of the community garden will be rolled out in phases.

Volunteer days are currently held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with activities including general cleanup of garden grounds, removal of non-native invasive plant species, litter pickup, watering, and mulching. Volunteers can sign up online at www.tinyurl.com/AWFvolunteer.

San Franciscos First Asian Community Garden Breaks Ground

After 10 years of organizing some of the largest and most diverse events in the community, AsianWeek Foundation is transitioning its projects and closed their Market Street office due to the retirement of their executive director Ted Fang.

The Nihonmachi Street Fair applauds one of our communities most influential and hard working organizations. Ted Fang along with Angela Pang provided much assistance to our organization. We are forever grateful for their guidance and friendship throughout the years.

Their partners will continue the tradition of inspiring community through diversity. Below is one of the new projects of the AsianWeek Foundation.

AsianWeek Foundation

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThe Nihonmachi Street Fair gratefully appreciates the following for their support this year.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee

State Senator Mark Leno

San Francisco Supervisor London Breed

San Francisco Supervisor David Chiu

San Francisco Supervisor Eric Mar

San Francisco City Assessor-Recorder Carmen Chu

San Francisco Entertainment Commissioner Steven Lee

San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency

San Francisco Dept. of Public Works

San Francisco Police Department

San Francisco Police Department - Northern Station

San Francisco Asian Peace Officers Association

San Francisco Dept. of Public Health- Alicia Saam

ISCOTT Members - SFMTA Engineering: Harvey Quan, Cindy Shamban, Meryl Klein, Manito Velasco, Curtis Smith, SFPD: Bernie Corry, Sgt. Mark Moreno, Officer Lynn Palmatto, SFFD: Kathy Harold, Manuel Pegueros, Entertainment Commission Cammy Blackstone

San Francisco Fire Department

San Francisco Asian Firefighters

San Francisco Sheriffs Department

San Francisco Recreation & Park Department - Chris Kocher

Grants for the Arts

Abbey Rents

A&R Rental

Aloha Warehouse

DBI Beverages

Houghston Engineering

Kinokuniya Bookstores of America - Richard Matsuno

MIF Insurance

Nihonmachi Parking Corporation - Jim Yonemoto

Nippon Ya

Paper Tree

SF Balloon Magic

San Francisco Palace of Fine Arts Theatre

SOMArts

Sound Innovations

Sundance Cinemas

SumoFish - Brandt Fuse

2013 No. CA Cherry Blossom Queen & Court

2014 No. CA Cherry Blossom Queen & Court

AsianWeek Foundation/Asian Heritage Street Celebration

Japan Center Garage

Japanese Community Youth Council

Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Northern CA

Japantown Merchants Association - Richard Hashimoto

Kimochi, Inc.

NNational Japanese American Historical Society

Nihonmachi Little Friends

No. CA Cherry Blossom Festival

No. CA Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce

Pistahan Parade & Festival

SF Animal Care & Control

San Francisco Japantown Foundation

Ted Fang

Daryl Higashi

Ron, Kenny & Sumi Kanzaki

Paul Miyamoto

Sandy Mori

Jeff Mori

Steve Nakajo

Scott Nakamura

Beverly Ng

Wes Nihei

Marilyn Oshiro

Angela Pang

Al Perez

Dean Ito Taylor

Tamiko Wong

One Brick

Heart in Motion

Community Access Plus

buildOn (Balboa High School)

Westmoor FBLA (Westmoor High School)


Last year right before and after the 40th Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair we lost three wonderful individuals who supported us and our communities in different ways. Their smiles and warm hearts will forever be in our hearts, and this years 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair is dedicated in their memory.

Hedy Hideko Oka MatsunoHedy and her husband Shug have been fixtures of the Nihonmachi Street Fair for many many years. Together along with the Japanese Community Youth Council (JCYC) Ceramics members they always secured a corner at the Fair to showcase and sell their fabulous ceramic pieces. Hedy always made sure that everything was set and ready to go each morning of the Fair. Her quick wit kept Shug in place and her kind spirit touched many in the community. Note: Heddy hated to take photos. We were lucky to find one of her back.

Rememberances...

Auntie Mele Melanie ElenekeAuntie Mele as she was known to many of us, left us far too soon. Melanie was part of the Halau Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa and performed at many community events. She was not only a hula dancer, but a transgender rights activist who fought for those who had no voice. She graced the Nihonmachi Street Fair stage many times along with her hula sisters.

Yuri KochiyamaJapanese-American activist and lifelong champion of civil rights causes in the African American, Latino, Native American and Asian American communities, Yuri Kochiyama inspired generations of activists, especially within the Asian American communities. She reminded all of us that we have a deep history of social justice that needs to continued and upheld. Lets all keep her memory alive by opening our own eyes to social movements.

Yuri Kochiyama photo courtesy of Mike Wintroath/AP

41st Annual

Proud Sponsor of the41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair

www.sapporobeer.com

Congratulations Nihonmachi Street Fairfor 41 years of Embracing Our Communities!

Help Support the Community by Being a Sponsor

Being a corporate / business sponsor at the Nihonmachi Street Fair is a wonderful way to show your support to the Asian/Pacific communities here in San Francisco. The Nihonmachi Street Fair offers a unique opportunity to reach the Asian/Pacific market face to face. Having a presence at next years event will position your company as a committed supporter to the Asian/Pacific community and provide visibility and exposure to a targeted audience.

Depending on the sponsorship level, your business will have an opportunity to be included in our press releases, website, marketing materials, public service announcements and visible banners at the event.

Nihonmachi Street Fair is a 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization. Tax ID: 94-3088515

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor at next years 42nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair or would like to request a sponsorship packet, please contact: Grace Horikiri [email protected], (415) 771-9861.

530 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, California 94118 415-751-3242

Proud Sponsors of the Nihonmachi Street Fairs Doggie World

2013 Union Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

As part of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, one of Japans most respected banking groups, we have specialized bankerswith international business and wealth management expertise ready to help you plan your future.

Arques Avenue408-245-8402

San Mateo Main650-342-9411

Stockton209-466-2315

Sunnyvale408-739-4900

West Fresno559-233-0591

Japan Center-San Francisco415-202-0350

San Francisco Main415-765-3434

San Jose Main408-279-7400

unionbank.com

Whats important to you is important to us.Union Bank understands the importance of community. We are deeply grateful for the personal and

professional ties we have developed throughout the years. And with our proven history of solid financial

performance, we will continue to put our strength to work for you. Together with you, we look forward

to building a successful future for generations to come.

Union Bank is proud to support the Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair.

Congratulations to theNihonmachi Street Fair!

For forty one years of bringingour communities together

From the Optometric Offices of

James Wong, O.D.

Jamie Totsubo, O.D.

Richard Hom, O.D.

Marilyn Ng, O.D.

1826 Buchanan Street, Suite A | San Francisco, CA 94115

Telephone: 415-931-1901

41

48th AnnualNorthern California

Thank you to all the individuals, businesses and community organizations that have advertised in this years booklet!


Grant T. Tomioka, Esq.Attorney at Law

4444 Geary Blvd., #301San Francisco, CA 94118Tel: (415) 670-9929Fax: (415) 933-6187Email: [email protected]

www.benkyodocompany.com


Nihonmachi Street Fair Planning Committee

Grace Horikiri, Executive Director

Pat Fong, Chief Financial Officer

Asian Artisan Kiyomi Tanaka, Nani Flazer

Basketball Tournament Jill Hom, Shingo Tanaka

Booklet & Advertisement Design Grace Horikiri

Booklet Ads Erika Tamura, John Nagano

Childrens World Sarah Kimiko Fedaie and 2014 Northern CA Cherry Blossom Queen & Court

Clear Channel Outdoor Stage Will Chu, George Da Plumber Flazer, Shawn Auvaa

Corporate Info Booths Grace Horikiri

Corporate Sponsorship Grace Horikiri, Pat Fong, Richard Jue, Tobin Tsuji

Doggie World Gail Mametsuka, Shirley Wing, Julie Matsueda, Lisa Stanziano

Food Fest Pat Fong

Logistics Shingo Tanaka, Clif Nakai

Nonprofit Info Tables Aya Ino

Photography Will Lee

Public Relations Grace Horikiri, Gail Mametsuka, Pat Fong

Security Ryan Quan, Wayne Yoshida, Cheri Quan

Sounds of Thunder Car Show Terry Chew

Webster Street Stage Joey Convento, Reuben Houston, Nicholas Footracer

Volunteer Coordinator Jaclyn Funasaki

Tshirt Design Brandt Fuse, SumoFish

2014 Nihonmachi Street Fair All rights reserved. No part of this booklet may be reproduced without

written consent from the Nihonmachi Street Fair, Inc.

Special Thanks:The Nihonmachi Street Fair greatly appreciates all the volunteers, individuals, businesses and community organizations whose support enable us to continue this valuable event for our communities.

The NSF is funded in part by the Grants for the Arts.

This event is supported by the SOMArts Cultural Centers Technical Services Program, which provides affordable, technical assistance to non-profits and community events throughout San Francisco. The mission of SOMArts (South of Market Arts, Resources, Technology and Services) is to promote and nurture art on the community level and foster an appreciation of and respect for all cultures. SOMArts receives funding from the San Francisco Arts Commission.

Board of Directors

Richard Jue, Chair

Michael Son, Vice Chair

Tobin Tsuji, Treasurer

Gail Mametsuka, Secretary

Terry Chew

Madeline Mutt Kitagawa

Erika Tamura

The Nihonmachi Street Fair Ohana

Additional Support Provided By Kenny Matsuda, Jennifer Hamamoto, John Oshima, Julie & Scott Yamamoto, JCYC Tomodachi Youth, Heart in Motion Students, One Brick, Community Access Plus, Build On (Balboa High School), Westmoor FBLA, Dave Golden, David Toshiyuki, Denise Naganuma, Mark Shigenaga, Grace Fujimoto, Kahn Yamada, Drew Mametsuka, Tai Iwamasa, Megumi Tsurukawa.

PG&E is proud to partner with the Nihonmachi Street Fair. Thank you for all of the great work

that you do on behalf of the community. At PG&E we believe its just as important to bring

energy to a community through our partnerships as it is through our power lines.

2014 Nihonmachi Street Fair Booklet

Documents

Transcript of 2014 Nihonmachi Street Fair Booklet