3rd Annual Golden Harvest Parade and Festival at the State Capitol Page 4 - 7
BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Don’t Get Burned Out With End of the Year Fatigue Page 8 & 9
TRAILBLAZERS
American Author Amy Tan Page 10 - 11
12
STORY THREADS
HISTORY OF TAIKO: The Heartbeat of Japan Page 12 & 13
The Importance of Spending Time with Family During the Holiday Season Page 14 & 15
16 20
IN THE COMMUNITY
A Vital Meal Program for Seniors in Little Tokyo Faces Time and Funding Shortages Page 16 - 19
NEWS & EVENTS
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Day of Remembrance Vigil Page 20
October 2024 ALL RISE Mini-Grant Recipients Announced Page 21
The José M. Hernández Reaching for the Stars Foundation Advances STEM to STEAAM: Integrating Agriculture and Climate Change into Education Page 22
Festival of Trees Page 26
THE APA LIVING TODAY
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ART DIRECTOR
Layne Imada
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & SOURCES
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Jessie Bowen
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Elite Publications
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Cathy Wei
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
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Jim Chong
Deadline to submit newsworthy information from non-profits, charitable organizations, or other sources is the 19th of each month for the following issue. Submitting information does not guarantee it will be featured.
Submit information to: jtc.publicist@gmail.com • Attn: Jim Chong
The APALT is digitally published bi-monthly by the APA Living Today. APALT does not assume responsibility for the authenticity or accuracy of news materials furnished for publication.
This year is one of much excitement and controversy. I am excited to have this publication highlight and bring together some of the things that are most significant in terms of different cultures, concepts, and communities. With this year’s passing, we will have witnessed many things that are very important to pay attention to this year as it will pave the path for the future years.
We have emphasized the importance of understanding various cultures and communities which is the pinnacle of keeping the fabric of the globe together. Most people are able to focus on only a few things at a time which means that we are always vying for the attention of people to get our message across. This publication is simply a conduit for information to be relayed.
How we relay the message is so very important but let’s not forget what the primary message is and to keep the main thing the main thing.
We can understand the solutions of the future if we spend the time to understand our progression of society, technology, and what’s most important today. Remember, we can almost always find out what’s most important to someone if we look at two things…their checkbook and their calendar.
What’s most important is that we are able to help our future by understanding the present. With the “changing of the guards” in the leadership of our country this year…specifically in the presidency, we have seen a real dichotomy of people’s thoughts and feelings on various issues and how they are represented. Some have taken note of and leveraged the fact that most people are natural followers and not natural leaders. For this reason, now my than every, it is important for people to take the time to understand and be educated on the current issues, their importance and relevance to our nation, and why we should understand the difference we can make individually.
Take the time to think about the news and opinions you hear and form your own conclusion to act and vote accordingly. Media by its own construction is both journalistic and editorial…there are facts and opinions. When you personally take time to learn, it empowers you to make intelligible decisions by definition.
I would like to take the time to personally thank Layne Imada for being the hub along with all the contributors who are so instrumental in the production of this publication for the purposes of enriching your life.
As we approach 2025 and make our New Year’s resolutions and promises, our hope is that this publication can be a tool for you to be empowered and educated on the different cultures and traditions locally and abroad.
– Jim T. Chong
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While we most directly address the concerns of Asian Pacific Americans, our publication is not a racial or ethnic sorting. It is a gathering of all those who wish to gather.
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Jim T. Chong
Golden Harvest Parade and Festival at the State Capitol 3rd Annual
By Jim T. Chong the Wok Star and Master Emcee for the GHPF
It was definitely an exciting time at the 3rd Annual Golden Harvest Parade and Festival that transpired on October 26th, 2024 in front of the State Capito in Sacramentol. Why is this event so significant? Usually the continuance of certain endeavors is realized not by the intent, but by what actually happens. Wei Zhang and Daniel Chang, the Founders of the Golden Harvest Parade and Festival, had a vision that turned into a reality when the first event post Global Pandemic happened in 2022.
This event has come a long way since then and earmarks a sustainable path for future years. This specific event brings together various cultures and communities in Greater Sacramento. What makes this event different is the ability for it to truly pull together the various communities to highlight a theme that resonates now more than ever not just locally, but nationally…” Unity, Harmony & Peace”.
Although the words Unity, Harmony & Peace are used everywhere, this event is positioned to bring it all together arguably in a way like no other. We have so many different participants this year representing the various ethnic cultures as well as appearances from the timeless Painted Ladies Rodeo Performers to the new Fantastic Foreigners & Corvette Camaro Brotherhood.
Being the 3rd year for the Golden Harvest Parade and Festival, this event, although in its infancy and maturing, has brought about a clean and clear perspective on how it is possible in this day and age to celebrate diversity and unity. We look forward to the Golden Harvest Parade and Festival event in 2025.
As the famous quote goes, “Love Long & Prosper”
For more information about this event, please visit GoldenHarvestParade.org.
Your Resource to create YOUR story.
For More Information, Contact: Jim T. Chong the Wok Star & Legend Maker Direct Line to Text/Call: (916) 747-9366
Are you interested in helping us share about your culture or community? We want to hear from you. Contact Jim at (916) 747-9366 or jtc.legendmaker@gmail.com
Jim T. Chong
Big C, Double O, Bunny Stewart, Alice, JBeily, Tony Waterford, & the Wok Star
For
Alice Jbeily’s car introduces the section “Fantastic Foreigners & Corvette Camaro Brotherhood”
Eric Guerra-Sacramento City Council
Monika Moscoso from EXP Realty
Wei Zhang and Daniel Chang along with others open the Parade
Fiona Ma State Treasurer CA highlights her appreciation of the event
A special Thank You to all the sponsors, participants, and audience that came to enjoy this event!
We look forward to the next Golden Harvest Parade and Festival tentatively scheduled for October 25th, 2025.
Don’t Get Burned Out With End of the Year Fatigue
By Jessie Bowen
Bowen
As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves grappling with a unique kind of exhaustion—end-of-year fatigue. This phenomenon is characterized by a buildup of stress and burnout, often exacerbated by the pressure to meet year-end goals and the anticipation of the upcoming holidays. Here are some strategies to help you navigate this challenging period and emerge refreshed and ready for the new year.
By recognizing the signs, prioritizing self-care, setting realistic goals, taking breaks, seeking support, and planning ahead, you can navigate this period with resilience and enter the new year with renewed energy and focus.
Recognize the Signs of Burnout
Burnout can manifest in various ways, including physical exhaustion, emotional detachment, and a decline in productivity. It’s crucial to recognize these signs early to address them effectively. Common symptoms include:
• Chronic fatigue: Feeling tired even after a full night’s sleep.
• Irritability: Increased frustration and mood swings.
• Lack of motivation: Difficulty in starting or completing tasks
• Physical symptoms: Headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues.
Prioritize
Self-Care
Self-care is essential in combating burnout. Incorporate activities that promote relaxation and well-being into your daily routine. Consider the following:
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity can boost your mood and energy levels.
• Practice mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can reduce stress.
• Get adequate sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Stay hydrated and eat healthily: Proper nutrition and hydration are vital for maintaining energy levels.
Set Realistic Goals
• The end of the year often comes with a long to-do list. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, set realistic and achievable goals. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and prioritize them based on urgency and importance.
Take Breaks
• Regular breaks are essential for maintaining productivity and preventing burnout. Schedule short breaks throughout your day to rest and recharge. Even a few minutes of stretching or a quick walk can make a significant difference.
Seek Support
• Don’t hesitate to seek support from colleagues, friends, or family members. Sharing your feelings and challenges can provide relief and offer new perspectives on managing stress. If necessary, consider professional help from a counselor or therapist.
Reflect and Plan Ahead
• Take some time to reflect on the past year—acknowledge your achievements and identify areas for improvement. Use this reflection to set realistic and meaningful goals for the upcoming year. Planning ahead can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety about the future.
To learn more, text Jessie Bowen, a life success coach and mental performance coach, at (919) 618-8075.
Jessie
TRAILBLAZERS
American Author Amy Tan
Born in the U.S. in 1952 to immigrant parents from China, Amy Tan grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area. She attended five colleges: Linfield College, San Jose City College, San Jose State University, University of California at Santa Cruz, and University of California at Berkeley. She received her B.A. with a double major in English and Linguistics, followed by her M.A. in Linguistics. She worked as a language development specialist for county-wide programs serving developmentally disabled children, birth to five, and later became director for a demonstration project funded by the U.S. Department of Education to mainstream multicultural children with developmental disabilities into early childhood programs. In 1981, she became a freelance business writer, working with management consulting and telecommunications companies, including IBM and AT&T.
In 1985, Amy attended her first fiction workshop at the Community of Writers in Palisades Tahoe. She and several participants formed a writers group, led by author and creative writing teacher Molly Giles. Her first story, “Rules of the Game,” was published in 1986 in a small literary magazine, FM Five. It was reprinted in Seventeen, and soon after translated into Italian and published in Grazia. Literary agent Sandy Dijkstra read the story and offered to serve as her agent. In 1987, Amy went to China for the first time, accompanied by her mother. When she returned home, she learned that she had received several offers based on her submission of three short stories. The resulting book of connected stories, The Joy Luck Club, was hailed as a novel and became a surprise bestseller, spending over forty weeks on The New York Times Bestseller List.
Her other novels are The Kitchen God’s Wife, The Hundred Secret Senses, The Bonesetter’s Daughter, Saving Fish from Drowning, and The Valley of Amazement, all New York Times bestsellers. She is also the author of two memoirs, The Opposite of Fate and Where the Past Begins: Memory and Imagination, as well as two children’s books, The Moon Lady and Sagwa, The Chinese Siamese Cat. Her essays and stories have appeared in numerous newspapers and magazines,
(Pictured with her family in 1959) found startling information about her parents while sifting through a treasure trove of family papers.
including The New Yorker, The Atlantic, Harper’s Bazaar, National Geographic, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Her essay ”Mother Tongue” was included in Best American Essays 1991, selected by guest editor Joyce Carol Oates. She is the author of the short story “Rules for Virgins,” published in e-book format (Byliner Original). Her work has been translated into 35 languages, from Spanish, French, and Finnish to Chinese, Arabic, Estonian, and Hebrew.
Amy served as co-producer and co-screenwriter with Ron Bass for the film adaptation of “The Joy Luck Club,” for which they received WGA and BAFTA nominations. She was the Creative Consultant for “Sagwa,” the Emmy-nominated PBS television series for children, which aired worldwide, including in the UK, Latin America, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, and Singapore.
Her story in The New Yorker, “Immortal Heart,” was performed on stages throughout the U.S. and in France. Her essays and stories are found in hundreds of anthologies and textbooks, and have been assigned as required reading in many high schools and universities. She was the guest editor for Best American Short Stories 1999. She appears as herself in the episode “Clown Poppy” in the animated series The Simpsons. She is the subject of a documentary Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir, directed by the late James Redford, which aired on PBS American Masters and is now available on Netflix. Her class on writing, memory and imagination can be found on MasterClass. The findings of her ancestry will be revealed in 2025 on the PBS show Finding Your Roots
Source Cited: Amy Tan website • About Amy Tan • www.amytan.net
American Author Amy Tan
TRAILBLAZERS
Amy Tan was a finalist for the National Book Award, the National Book Critics Circle Award, and the International Orange Prize. She is the recipient of many honors, including the Commonwealth Gold Award, the Carl Sandburg Award, the 2024 NYPL Library Lion. She was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters, in 2022, and in 2023, President Biden presented her with the National Humanities Medal.
Amy has lectured internationally at universities, including Stanford, Oxford, Jagellonium, and Georgetown both in Washington, DC and Doha, Qatar. She did a TED talk on creativity and spoke at the White House, appeared on the popular NPR program Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me, as well as on Sesame Street, and in the documentary Boomers. The National Endowment for the Arts chose The Joy Luck Club for its inaugural Big Read program in 2007.
Amy also wrote the libretto for the opera The Bonesetter’s Daughter, which had its world premiere with the San Francisco Opera in September 2008. Since 1993, she has served as lead rhythm dominatrix, backup singer, and second tambourine with the literary garage band, the Rock Bottom Remainders, whose members include Stephen King, Dave Barry, and Scott Turow.
In 2016, Amy began taking nature journaling classes with John Muir Laws.
During the pandemic shutdown, she spent long hours observing the behavior of wild birds in her backyard. Her editor, Dan Halpern, suggested she turn those pencil sketches, colored portraits and journal notes into an illustrated book, The Backyard Bird Chronicles, published in April 2024 by Knopf, which became an instant #1 bestseller. Her drawings were on special exhibition at the Roger Torey Peterson Institute.
Amy serves on the board of American Bird Conservancy, the National Poetry Series, and The Community of Writers. She lives with her husband and their dog in California and New York.
Tan’s mother, Daisy Tan, translates a letter for her daughter in 1989.
Finding Your Writing Voice – MasterClass. Amy explores the importance of a writer’s voice and invites you on an inner journey to find yours.
At Portland Arts & Lectures Literary Arts’ lecture series
HISTORY OF TAIKO: The Heartbeat of Japan
Taiko Center Co., Ltd. • Taiko-Lab
113-4 Takatsuji Oomiya-cho Shimogyou-ku Kyoto city, Kyoto prefecture 600-8387 Japan
THE BIRTH OF TAIKO
As percussion instruments are generally the most primitive instrument in any society, the taiko existed and was used in the ancient Japan over 2000 years ago. According to some archeological and anthropological researches, ancient people in the Jyomon era already used drums as a communication tool or an instrument for religious rituals. However, the percussion they used is guessed to be quite different from the one used today.
By the fact that taiko we use today resembles those in China and Korea, the ancient taiko was probably introduced to Japan from the Asian Continent as far as India. The continental music came to Japan around 5th - 6th century along with the waves of Chinese and Korean cultural influence based on Buddhism. When the Taiho Ritsuryo, the oldest constitution of Japan, was enacted in 702, a department of the imperial court music was established in the Imperial Palace. The department has been inherited directly till now, honored as the Important Intangible Cultural Asset. Various kinds of taikos such as San-no-tsuzumi, Furi-tsuzumi, Dadaiko, Tsuri-daiko, Ninai-daiko, Kakko, Kaiko, and ikko are used in the court music. The style is said to be one of the roots of taiko music we know today.
After the samurai class gained power since the Kamakura era started in 1192, a new cultural movement of ethnic Japanese started to appear. Many original art forms were born under the feudal Japan, unleashed from the Chinese and Korean cultural influence. For example, a Noh play was created in the Muromachi era (1336-1573). A famous Kabuki play emerged and quickly became popular in the Edo era (16031867) as well as Nagauta. Taiko had an important role in those art forms as an accompaniment, and were gradually diversified to various sizes and shapes. Moreover, the development of other instruments such as Shamisen, Koto and Shakuhachi also influenced the shaping of those art forms now categories as traditional. The methods of taiko playing have been inherited through generations under the iemoto system (the system of the teaching of a traditional Japanese art by a master), although western music has become predominant in modern Japan.
Meanwhile, taikos have always been used in religious ceremonies or local festivals as well. It is very common to find taikos at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. This shows that taiko has associated with a religion very closely. The ancient people might feel the power of deity in the rumbling sound of taiko and taiko had a role as a sanctifying instrument. Usually, men who were authorized by the priest played taiko at special occasions. Otherwise at the religious ceremonies, common people have enjoyed dancing along with taiko at local festivals. Such local festivals still remain and it is fun to watch their unique taiko performances.
MODERN TAIKO HISTORY
“Kumi-daiko” literally means a taiko ensemble that consists of various taikos. Surprisingly, the Kumi-daiko style was invented in 1950’s by single person although taiko itself has a long history. Daihachi Oguchi, the founder of Osuwa Daiko, created the Kumi-Daiko style in 1951. He was actually a jazz drummer. One day, he was asked to interpret an old sheet of taiko music for the Osuwa Shrine, which was found in an old warehouse. The sheet music was written in an old Japanese notation and he couldn’t understand it at first. He, fortunately, found an old man who had performed the tune, and then he succeeded in interpreting it at last. However, as a jazz player, the rhythm pattern of the tune was too simple for him to play. He wondered why nobody played taiko together. A marvelous idea came across his mind and made him decide to break through the tradition. Inspired by a western drum set, he formed a group in which each player beats a different taiko; in short, he gave the group a function as a drum set. A high-pitched Shime-daiko established a basic rhythm like a snare drum does. A growling Nagado -daiko added accents like a bass drum. His intention was right to the point, and this epoch-making invention changed the taiko music forever.
Following the Osuwa Daiko, Yushima Tenjin Sukeroku Daiko, which was based on Edobayashi style, was formed in 1959 by the four members: Yoshihira Ishikawa, Yutaka Ishikawa, Seido Kobayashi, and Motoei Onozato. The characteristics of the group were the speed, powerful playing and unique choreography. Later, the group was split to two groups, the Yushima Tenjin Sukeroku Daiko and Oedo Sukeroku Daiko founded by Seido Kobayashi.
Another historic group was born in 1969: it was Za Ondekoza. Tagayasu Den founded the group on Sado Island located in the northern part of the Japan Sea. The group was totally different from the other groups ever formed. The members were not natives of the island, actually they came from all over Japan, and some of them were youths disaffected with bustling big city life. They lived together in a commune, cultivated fields, and ran a marathon daily. The rigorous physical training seemed to be the group’s dogma to create a good sound. In 1975, the sensational event that they performed taiko on stage just after they run the whole Boston Marathon astonished the entire world. Za Ondekoza was credited with the first Japanese group with spreading the taiko music all over the world. In 1981, the group was split to Kodo, which consists of the original members of Za Ondekoza, and new Za Ondekoza, which was formed by Den. Now Kodo is the most famous taiko group and is busy traveling around the globe.
STORY THREADS
TAIKO IN MUNICIPAL ACTIVITIES
The period from 1970’s to 1990’s in Japan seemed to be the Renaissance of taiko music. The activities of Osuwa Daiko and other early kumi-daikogroups in 1960’s, and the taiko performance at the Tokyo Olympic in 1964ignited the phenomenal taiko boom for next decades. People started to payattention to their local cultural heritages, which were almost vanishingaway. Many municipal organizations took action on preserving them and,consequently, a lot of hozonkai (municipal preserving organization) wereborn here and there in Japan. Adding to that, the government promoted thoseactivities with a vast sum of subsidies in 1980’s. The end result is thatapproximately 4,000 taiko groups have been formed in Japan since then.An important renovation in education was also enacted recently. The musiceducation in Japan had focused on the western classical music and disregardedtraditional Japanese music in modern times. The educational renovationin 2002 required schools to use Japanese traditional instruments includingtaiko as teaching materials. It is sure that the new generation will reactivatetaiko music in the 21st century.
TAIKO IN THE UNITED STATES
Taiko was brought to the United States by Japanese immigrants there in the early of the 20th century. The main usage of taiko in those days was to play in temples or in festivals as Miya-daiko (temple drum or sacred drum). The Japanese immigrants preserved their culture in the New World, probably, to maintain their identity and cooperative spirit as Japanese. For example, Bon-Odori, a dance in Bon festival reposing the ancestor’s souls in summer, is one of the cultural activities they loved to keep. According to resources, taiko drumming of Bon-Odori was already established in Hawaii as early as 1910. The Kanazawa Kenjinkai, an organization of Japanese immigrants from Kanazawa Prefecture in Japan, also brought it to San Francisco in 1930’s.
When the World War II broke out and Japan declared war against the United States, a tragedy stroke those Japanese immigrants. They were taken into internment camps as enemy aliens. After the war ended, the Japanese-American tried hard to assimilate into American culture, in order to remove the prejudice. The succeeding generation lost much of their Japanese culture and even the language. Taiko drumming was also forgotten for a long time till 1960’s.
In the storm of the Civil Rights Movement, some Japanese-American wanted to revive their identity as Japanese, and they found a way to express it in taiko drumming. At the end of 1960’s, two pioneer groups opened the door for taiko music in North America: the San Francisco Taiko Dojo and the Kinnara Taiko. Seiichi Tanaka, born in Tokyo, immigrated to San Francisco in 1967 and founded the San Francisco Taiko Dojo in the following year. He was a student of Daihachi Oguchi, the legendary founder of Osuwa Daiko. His style of taiko drumming was a synthesis of Osuwa Daiko, Oedo Sukeroku, and Gojinjyo-daiko. The San Francisco Taiko Dojo was the first taiko group introduced the Kumi-daiko style to the United States. The group inspired many following taiko groups and greatly devoted to spread taiko throughout North America for decades. The Reverend Masao Kodani of Senshin Buddhist Temple founded the Kinnara Taiko in 1969.
Differed from the San Francisco Taiko Dojo, the Kinnara Daiko based on a Buddhist organization and basically performed for events of the temple. The group is one of the unique Japanese-American Buddhist taiko groups still going on. Following them, San Jose Taiko was founded in 1973. The group was also based on a Buddhist organization. One of the Buddhist priest of the organization was a friend of the Reverend Kodani of the Kinnara Daiko and was inspired by him to establish a taiko group in San Jose. Most of the members were Sansei at first. They are urged to revive the culture of their grandparents; meanwhile, they tried to express their identity as Japanese-American in taiko drumming. They made it become a symbolic art form of Japanese-American culture.
TAIKO IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Inspired by the successful world touring of Za Ondekoza and Kodo, a vast numbers of taiko groups have been established in Japan as well as around the world, especially in North America during the few decades. It is estimated that there are approximately 1,000 taiko groups in the United States and Canada. The taiko boom has been spreading through out Europe, Australia, and South America as well. That is a worldwide phenomenon and will continue in the 21st century. Why did it happen? There seems to be many reasons. Some people got attracted to the beautiful Japanese art form respecting Japanese culture. Some were amazed by the dynamic sound of taiko, which is incomparable with any other percussion in the world. Some might start to play it as an exercise to maintain their health. But there is one sure common reason why taiko is so attractive simplicity. You just strike it with sticks, and a sound comes out. Without distinction of sex, age, or nationality, everyone enjoys the simple and earnest response from taiko. Amazingly there are some taiko groups, which include deaf peoples. They can play in concert successfully, feeling vibrations made from other players. That is a magical power of taiko.
Taiko is the heartbeat of Japan, which has vitalized our souls throughout the long deep history. Now it is also becoming a universal musical language making peoples in the world get closer. The instrument has an unlimited potential, as the fact that the kumidaiko style was invented and developed in relatively short period shows. traditional but new that is taiko. Taiko music continues to evolve with the commencement of 21st century; and maybe it will be you, who create a new generation of taiko music.
By Layne Imada
The Importance of Spending Time with Family During the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Amid the hustle and bustle of gift shopping, decorating, and attending festive events, spending quality time with family often emerges as the most meaningful aspect of the season. Family gatherings during the holidays provide an opportunity to reconnect, create lasting memories, and strengthen relationships. In a world that can sometimes feel rushed and impersonal, these moments of togetherness hold a special significance.
Some of my most treasured memories are memories of the family gatherings around the holidays. Seeing aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, friends and just family, both immediate and extended. For me, it was important for all of us to be together, catch up on all the news, and to cherish what we have. As I get older and families get bigger or move away, it seems less and less that we all get together. I understand how busy we get and each of our lives become more and more. So, I just have a few tips i’d like to offer during this holiday season.
The Value of Togetherness
Family is the foundation of our lives, providing support, comfort, and a sense of belonging. The holiday season is one of the few times when families, who may live far apart or have busy schedules, can come together to celebrate and bond. These gatherings offer a chance to slow down and appreciate each other’s company in a way that isn’t always possible during the rest of the year. Whether it’s sharing a holiday meal, engaging in festive activities, or simply sitting around the living room telling stories, the time spent together strengthens family ties.
Creating Lasting Memories
The holidays are often remembered not for the gifts we receive but for the experiences we share. Baking cookies with grandparents, decorating the tree with siblings, or going for a nighttime drive to see the holiday lights are activities that can leave a lasting impression. These shared moments become the stories that families pass down from generation to generation, enriching the fabric of family history. Even the simplest traditions—like watching a holiday movie or playing board games—can be the spark that ignites a lifetime of cherished memories.
Reducing Stress and Boosting Well-being
The holiday season can be stressful due to financial pressures, busy schedules, and the expectation to make everything perfect. However, spending quality time with family can help alleviate that stress. Being with loved ones encourages a sense of relaxation and happiness, and the emotional support family members provide can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Sharing laughter and joy releases endorphins, helping to reduce anxiety and improve mood. In fact, research has shown that strong family connections contribute to better mental health and greater life satisfaction.
Strengthening Family Traditions
Every family has its own unique holiday traditions, whether they are big or small. These customs create a sense of continuity and identity, helping family members feel connected to their roots. Celebrating these traditions not only brings joy in the present but also teaches younger generations the importance of family bonds and cultural heritage. By participating in holiday rituals— such as lighting candles, attending religious services, or preparing traditional foods—families reinforce the values and practices that define their shared experiences.
STORY THREADS
Navigating Family Dynamics
While the holidays can be a wonderful time to bond, they can also bring some challenges, especially when it comes to family dynamics. Old tensions or unresolved conflicts may resurface, making gatherings potentially stressful. It’s important to approach these situations with patience, understanding, and a willingness to communicate openly. Setting boundaries and managing expectations can help prevent conflicts, allowing family members to focus on enjoying each other’s company. Embracing the spirit of forgiveness and compassion can transform the holidays into a time for healing and reconnection.
Making Time for Quality Moments
With so much going on during the holidays, it’s easy for family time to get overshadowed by other obligations. To make the most of this season, consider planning intentional activities that prioritize togetherness. These could include:
• Cooking or baking together: Involve everyone in preparing a holiday meal or baking treats. It’s a great way to spend time together and create something delicious to share.
• Family game night: Bring out classic board games or try something new Friendly competition can lead to lots of laughs and bonding.
• Crafting or decorating: Make holiday decorations or DIY gifts as a family These activities offer a creative outlet and create memorable keepsakes.
• Outdoor activities: Go ice skating, sledding, or take a walk to admire the holiday lights. Fresh air and physical activity can enhance everyone’s mood.
When you advertise in HERLIFE, you are not only promoting your business, you become part of the solution to combate negative news. In every issue of HERLIFE, we tell positive, uplifiting good news stories about San Joaquin County.
By focusing on these simple, meaningful experiences, families can ensure that their time together is truly special.
The True Meaning of the Season
Ultimately, the holiday season isn’t about extravagant celebrations or expensive gifts; it’s about connecting with the people who matter most. In a time where technology often dominates our lives, being physically present with family allows us to disconnect from distractions and focus on what truly matters. These moments of togetherness remind us of the love and support that enrich our lives year-round.
By embracing the opportunity to spend time with loved ones, families can transform the holiday season into a period of joy, gratitude, and renewal. It’s these shared experiences that bring the true magic of the holidays to life, leaving a legacy of love and connection that lasts long after the season has passed.
is
A Vital Meal Program for Seniors in Little Tokyo Faces Time and Funding Shortages
By Layne Imada
In the heart of Los Angeles, a vital lifeline for seniors in Little Tokyo is in danger of being severed. Drivers arrive to the Little Tokyo Towers at 10 a.m. every morning carrying seniors’ bento box meals. Each one is carefully wrapped in tinfoil and is carefully portioned out by food group to meet federal nutrition standards.
For decades, the Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services (LTSNS) program has been a crucial support system, delivering over 100 meals daily to elderly Asian American seniors in Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights who face food insecurity and social isolation.
According to Darlene Kuba, president of Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services, “People have this misconception of all Asians are wealthy. Well, that’s not the case.” One in 10 Asian Americans face poverty in the U.S., a fact that is often disguised by the wealth gap that exists between different ethnic groups.
A LIFELINE FOR SENIORS
Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services has provided much more than just meals. For many seniors, it has been a symbol of independence and dignity, offering culturally relevant, nutritious meals that allow them to maintain a connection to their heritage while managing the challenges of aging. For others, the daily delivery has been a source of human connection, a brief but important social interaction that wards off isolation and loneliness.
The program has long served a demographic that includes elderly Japanese Americans and other seniors, many of whom have lived in the community for decades. With mobility limitations, health issues, and financial hardship, these seniors rely heavily on this service to sustain their daily lives. However, the program is facing an uncertain future. With dwindling financial resources and an aging volunteer and staff base, the future of this community treasure is uncertain.
AN AGING WORKFORCE
Ironically, the same factors that make the service so essential to its recipients are now also affecting the workforce that keeps it running. Many of the staff members and volunteers who prepare and deliver the meals are themselves
seniors, some in their 70s and 80s. They, too, are beginning to feel the toll of aging, making it harder for them to continue their roles.
These dedicated individuals have been the backbone of the operation, often working long hours to ensure that their neighbors have enough to eat. Yet, as they retire or slow down, the program struggles to find younger volunteers and staff members to take their place.
FUNDING CRISIS
The challenges facing Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services don’t stop with its workforce. The program is also battling a significant funding crisis. The Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services Program is funded by the city of Los Angeles through a subcontract it has with the Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC), which in turn is contracted with the city Department of Aging.
Photos provided by Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services
Little Tokyo Nutrition Site
The Watts Labor Community Action Committee is one of the biggest contractors with the city of Los Angeles, providing community services throughout downtown. According to South L.A. Chief Executive Tim Watkins, he contends that Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services had overcharged for services.
At the same time, Kuba alleges the WLCAC has not been reimbursing her organization fully or on time for any senior services, leading to delays in paying the caterer, Far Bar, a gastropub in Little Tokyo, for meals it provides.
The Department of Aging was asked about the allegations, but declined to comment publicly on the issue and said it hoped to bring a resolution.
Meanwhile, time and funding are running out for the meals program, Kuba said. “Raising awareness for fundraising to keep the program going has been difficult, and the waiting list of 50 people is only getting longer,” she said. For many of the seniors who rely on the meal deliveries, the loss of this service would be catastrophic. Already on fixed incomes and facing mobility issues, they have few alternatives. The possibility of losing this vital resource has raised concerns not just within the senior community but throughout Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights.
THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT
As time and funding run out, the survival of the Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services program hinges on community support and increased awareness. Local leaders and advocates are calling on both the public and private sectors to step up, whether through direct financial contributions, volunteerism, or advocacy for more government funding.
The loss of this program would represent more than just the end of a meal service; it would signify the erosion of a support network that has allowed
countless seniors to remain active members of their community. In a rapidly changing city like Los Angeles, where gentrification and displacement are already threatening cultural and historical landmarks, protecting services like these is essential to preserving the soul of neighborhoods like Little Tokyo.
THE HUMAN STORIES
A USC study revealed that Asian Americans face higher rates of nutrition insecurity, indicating a limited access to healthy foods. Organizations such as Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services help bridge this gap by providing culturally relevant meals and addressing potential language barriers for Asian seniors.
Every month, a menu is crafted to cater to the tastes of Asian seniors who seek familiar and comforting dishes. Although the senior meal program primarily offers its services in Japanese, a significant portion of the residents at Little Tokyo Towers who receive meals are Chinese and Korean.
Setsuo Nakama
In her seventies, Setsuko Nakama, the executive director of the program, still rides the bus and train each morning from Riverside to Little Tokyo to deliver meals to Boyle Heights residents. Balancing the meals in one hand and holding the railing with the other, she slowly makes her way up the stairs in her slippers to reach an individual’s apartment, continuing her tireless commitment to the community.
Today marks Keyoshi Saito’s 90th birthday, and Nakama has brought his usual meal, a special dessert, and his daily copy of the Los Angeles Times.
“We used to deliver more than 40 meals,” Nakama reflected. At one point,
Prepping meals
Prepping meals to be delivered
IN THE COMMUNITY
Boyle Heights was once a prominent hub for Japanese Americans and remained culturally significant even after World War II and the incarceration of Japanese Americans. “But now, most of the Japanese and Japanese Americans have either passed away or moved elsewhere,” she said, acknowledging the neighborhood’s shift with the influx of Latino immigrants.
Shirley Nakatsuru
“I don’t drive anymore,” shared Shirley Nakatsuru, a 74-year-old with vision problems. Living alone with her 15-year-old cat, Hanako, she has her necessities—soap, water, vitamins, and dentures—spread out on the table in front of her. It’s clear from her environment that Nakatsuru struggles with mobility, making it hard for her to keep her space tidy.
“I mostly look for things I can microwave,” she explained, noting that she no longer cooks for herself. However, finding healthy options can be challenging due to her diabetes. The senior meals delivered by Nakama five days a week have become essential to her diet. “It helps me have more food,” Nakatsuru said.
Soonyong Hahm
“I enjoy Japanese food,” said Soonyong Hahm, a 79-year-old Korean woman sitting with her friends in the dining hall of Little Tokyo Towers. “Korean food is too spicy for my taste.” She and her friends love the variety offered by Far Bar, known for its Asian fusion dishes. Their favorites include hamburgers and odeng soup, a traditional Korean fish cake dish.
Richard Witsoe
Mr. Witsoe occasionally feels like an outsider as one of only two white men living in a subsidized senior building with about 300 residents. Nevertheless, he attributes his sense of community to Miyazato and the meal service, which have helped him connect with his neighbors.
“There’s a group of ladies here that I know well. When I don’t see them, I start to feel concerned,” said the 73-year-old. “I think some of them also wonder, ‘Where’s Mr. Witsoe?’”
He has formed a routine of checking in on the other seniors who come to pick up their meals. He also finds this environment much friendlier and safer than his previous apartment near MacArthur Park, where he often felt anxious about his safety when going outside. “As a group, they’re all very cheerful, kind, and friendly, which is truly lovely,” he said of his neighbors.
Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services does more than just provide meals; it also conducts wellness checks. Volunteers have had to call 911 on multiple occasions when they found a senior who was injured or unresponsive during a meal delivery.
In one case, a senior called out from her room, “Can you help me? Can you call the manager?” She had fallen inside her apartment, said Mariko Miyazato, a
Here is a 94 year old lady waiting to get her meal delivered by Stsuko Nakama, Executive Director of LTNS.
site manager at Little Tokyo Towers. For many homebound seniors, these meal deliveries may be their only chance for human interaction, ensuring they are not overlooked thanks to the caring staff and volunteers.
William Tuyor
Volunteer William Tuyor recognizes how crucial these meals are. “They provide about a third of the seniors’ daily nutrition. Without them, they’re essentially wasting away,” said the 38-year-old, who recently completed USC’s graduate nutrition program.
He explained that for some seniors, this may be their only meal of the day, prompting them to ration it to last through breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As one of the few younger volunteers, he worries about the program’s future, having seen many staff and volunteers grow weaker and less able to deliver meals. At one point, when the elevators were being repaired, elderly volunteers had to navigate dozens of stairs to deliver meals to residents on the 15th floor. “It concerns me because I can’t be there all the time. I just don’t want to see that service diminish,” Tuyor said.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Kuba stated that the ability to continue providing meals to seniors in need is largely thanks to the generosity of their vendor, Don Tahara, the owner of Far Bar. “When we don’t receive payment from the third-party organization that’s meant to reimburse us for the meals, he covers the costs himself,” Kuba explained. “He uses his credit card to purchase the food, prepare the meals, and deliver them here.”
Tahara realizes that it may not be sound business practice to keep his restaurant in debt for extended periods. Nevertheless, as a longtime member of the Little Tokyo community, the 70-year-old feels a strong sense of duty to help his neighbors, particularly those on fixed incomes. “I observe how older people in Little Tokyo shop at the local markets,” Tahara remarked. “They buy only a small amount of food and always seem to be looking for the best ways to stretch their meals.”
THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT
As time and funding run out, the survival of the Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services program hinges on community support and increased awareness. Local leaders and advocates are calling on both the public and private sectors to step up, whether through direct financial contributions, volunteerism, or advocacy for more government funding.
The loss of this program would represent more than just the end of a meal service; it would signify the erosion of a support network that has allowed countless seniors to remain active members of their community. In a rapidly changing city like Los Angeles, where gentrification and displacement are already threatening cultural and historical landmarks, protecting services like these is essential to preserving the soul of neighborhoods like Little Tokyo.
A CALL TO ACTION
The situation facing Little Tokyo Senior Nutrition Services serves as a reminder of the broader challenges faced by aging populations in urban areas. As baby boomers grow older, the demand for senior services will only increase. Programs like this one provide a model for how communities can care for their elders, but they also highlight the need for sustained investment and planning for the future.
Time is running out for Little Tokyo’s seniors, but the fight is not over. With the right support, this cherished program can continue to nourish bodies, spirits, and a sense of community for years to come.
Now more than ever, it’s a time for everyone—government officials, business leaders, and local residents—to come together and ensure that this invaluable service does not disappear. The seniors of Little Tokyo and Boyle Heights are counting on it.
Visit the Little Tokyo Nutrition Services website for more information or to donate.
https://www.ltns.org/
Meals to be delivered
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Day of Remembrance Vigil
Contact: Elizabeth Sanchez, Community Engagement Director esanchez@prevailca.org • (209) 941-2611
Since 1989, October has been declared as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Ever since then, agencies and communities have joined every October to acknowledge domestic violence survivors and bring awareness to communities around the Country.
According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, an average of 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. In the past 12 months, PREVAIL
• Served 1,199 victims of domestic violence
• Assisted in petitioning 700 temporary restraining orders
• Housed 404 clients in our domestic violence shelters
• Received 2,114 domestic violence calls to our crisis lines
This year, as part of our Domestic Violence Awareness campaign, we have invited agencies, and leaders in our community, to house 1 to 3 of our silent witness silhouettes at their location during the month of October 2024. The real size wooden silhouettes represent individuals in San Joaquin County who lost their life to domestic violence. Below are a few participating locations:
• Child Abuse Prevention Council
• San Joaquin County Office of Education
• Department of Child Support Services
• County Administrative Building
• Tracy Defense Depot
• Stanislaus State – Stockton Campus
• Family Justice Center
• Tracy Police Department
• Lodi Police Department
• San Joaquin County Pride Center
• San Joaquin County Probation Department
• San Joaquin County Juvenile Probation
• Stockton Police Department
• Collaborative Courts
• Time 2 Change
PREVAIL’s, Annual Day of Remembrance will be held on Thursday, October 24, with open viewing of the silhouettes from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and program with authorities and guest speakers from 12:00 to 1:00 PM at 620 North San Joaquin Street, Stockton. This year, we will be honored to have Donald Vaughn, Chief Deputy District Attorney for San Joaquin County as Guest Speaker.
For further information visit the website at https://weshallprevail.org or contact event producer Elizabeth Sanchez at 209-929-6726 or esanchez@prevailca.org.
About PREVAIL
PREVAIL, formerly Women’s Center-Youth & Family Services is San Joaquin County’s only provider of free, confidential shelter and services specifically designed to meet the needs of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and homeless and runaway youth. During this last year, PREVAIL provided services to over 5,000 participants through our various programs. The mission of PREVAIL is to provide safety, compassion, and respect as we educate, empower and advocate for individuals, families, and young people.
Donald Vaughn, Chief Deputy District Attorney for San Joaquin County
ALL RISE will inspire children and youth to become responsible citizens by engaging them in activities that encourage them to reach unlimited possibilities.
October 2024 ALL RISE Mini-Grant Recipients Announced
Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Fresno, CA
Fast Feet Running and Athletics, Inc., Brooklyn, NY Waterloo School, Linden, CA
[Linden, CA, October 23, 2024] Aaron Judge, New York Yankee and former Fresno State Bulldog, and founder of the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation is proud to announce the October 2024 ALL RISE Mini-Grant recipients, each receiving $2,500. These three organizations align with the ALL RISE mission to inspire children and youth to become responsible citizens and reach unlimited possibilities.
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Fresno, California, After-School at the Zoo program is designed to boost self-confidence, inspire curiosity about nature and wildlife, encourage healthy eating and physical movement, and provide a safe environment where young people can freely engage with their immediate surroundings. The ALL RISE Mini-Grant will support the purchase of supplies for activities, not limited to painting, drawing, and craft-making, as well as help cover the costs to feed program participants a wholesome meal. The meal fortifies the children in their activities and addresses the problem of food insecurity that can occur in families who experience economic instability while living in temporary housing.
Fast Feet Running and Athletics, Inc., Brooklyn, New York recognizes the severe need for adaptive exercise and health equity programs for children and young adults with disabilities. The mission of their program Fast Feet is to make athletics, nutrition and social skills development accessible and inclusive to all people. Fast Feet centers on adaptive running programs. Supported by a team of coaches, each athlete learns the fundamentals of track-and-field, as well as how to be a supportive team player and community member. The ALL RISE Mini-Grant will help give Bronx students with disabilities the opportunity to train, work out and race. To ensure each individual child’s needs are properly supported, athletes will be paired with volunteers who provide training assistance and positive encouragement.
ABOUT ALL RISE
Waterloo School, Linden, California has created the #Waterloo Awesome Community project that encourages students to be important partners in their school community through student leadership and student voice. Feeling the desire to expand their learning, not just in the classroom but through the outdoor environment, students voiced their idea to create an outside space. This area will contribute to positive pupil engagement, improve social, emotional and communication skills, provide an area for outdoor reading, as well as boost confidence. The ALL RISE Mini-Grant will allow them to create a learning environment with a greater number of plants, greener views, and access to natural play areas, which have proven to have a positive impact on mental health by reducing stress and anxiety.
“Our three recipients are aligned with the mission and the Comprehensive Components of ALL RISE. We continue to support these organizations and their creativity, as they develop mentors and leaders, as well as focus on education, health, and well-being,” said Aaron Judge. “I am proud to support each of them as they are committed to engaging with our youth through continued education, support programs and mentorships that will have lifelong, memorable benefits.”
All funds donated for the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Mini-Grant programs go directly to children and youth programs in San Joaquin County, California; Fresno County, California; and Bronx County, New York, that support ongoing citizenship and education development.
The Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation focuses on developing positive character traits; provides awards and incentive programs for schools and local organizations to encourage and reward academic improvement and excellence; supports children and youth experiencing difficult health and family circumstances; and fundraising events to support ALL RISE Mini-Grants and Programs. For more information on the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation please visit: aaronjudgeALLRISEfoundation. org., Tax ID#: 83-1083207 501(c)(3).
The José M. Hernández Reaching for the Stars Foundation Advances STEM to STEAAM: Integrating Agriculture and Climate Change into Education
For media inquiries and to schedule interviews, please contact Dr. Ines Ruiz at: direct: (209) 644-2623 | mobile: (209) 986-2406 email: inesruizhuston@gmail.com
The José M. Hernández Reaching for the Stars Foundation (RFTS) has transformed the widely known STEM and STEAM education models into STEAAM, incorporating Agriculture and Climate Change into its core curriculum. This expanded focus not only emphasizes essential scientific and technological skills but also nurtures creative thinking across all disciplines. As global challenges like climate change and food insecurity intensify, STEAAM is critical for developing future solutions that support sustainability on Earth and beyond, particularly during space exploration.
José M. Hernández, retired NASA astronaut and founder of RFTS, explains: “As the original ‘astronaut farmer,’ my journey from picking strawberries in Stockton to becoming a NASA astronaut is featured in the 2023 film A Million Miles Away. My story reflects the perseverance it took to earn degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering while addressing the world’s most pressing challenges through STEM, STEAM, and now STEAAM principles.”
Evolving Education for a Changing World
STEAAM builds on the foundations of STEM and STEAM by integrating agriculture and climate change into the educational framework. The domains of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are now complemented by Agriculture and the creative “Art” component, which fosters innovative thinking across every field of study. STEAAM equips students with the skills necessary to solve the critical issues facing our planet, from climate disruption to food security, and even challenges associated with space travel and colonizing the Moon, Mars, and beyond.
This evolution in education is vital to local, national, and global communities. By embracing STEAAM, future generations will be empowered to address and rectify the imbalances threatening life on Earth, while pioneering solutions that sustain human life during interplanetary exploration.
Hernández’s Personal Journey
Through determination and perseverance, Hernández earned both a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering. His extensive career as an astronaut, engineer, author, farmer, and vintner showcases his ability to apply STEAAM principles to real-world problems. His firsthand experience of observing Earth from space gives him a unique perspective on sustainability—both on our planet and in space.
As the owner of Tierra Luna Cellars, a vineyard and wine business, Hernández combines his knowledge of agriculture with his understanding of science, drawing inspiration from the constellations he viewed during his time in space.
Supporting the Next Generation
The RFTS Foundation is committed to empowering future STEAAM leaders by offering scholarships to students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Agriculture, or Mathematics. Eligible applicants must be enrolled at accredited four-year institutions at the junior or senior level, completing a minimum of 12 units per semester.
Engaging Programs for Students
Science Blast Program
Aimed at fifth-grade students, this hands-on STEM/STEAM/STEAAM event takes place on university campuses. With mentorship from university, college, and high school students, Science Blast introduces young learners to NASA’s space missions and inspires them to pursue careers in STEM, STEAM, and STEAAM fields. Activities include:
• Exploring NASA science missions and their impact on space exploration.
• Demonstrating how scientific inquiry shapes space missions.
• Engaging in hands-on experiments that connect science and engineering.
Science Blast Community Day
Open to students, families, and community members in San Joaquin County, this free event features interactive STEAAM activities. Participants can enjoy hands-on experiments, meet university students, and witness local MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) programs in action.
Summer Academy
In collaboration with the University of the Pacific’s School of Engineering & Computer Science and the Stockton Unified School District, the RFTS Foundation hosts a Summer Academy for seventh-grade through twelfth- grade students from Sacramento and Stockton. Designed to prepare young students for STEAAM careers, the program includes lectures, hands-on experiments, and field trips, helping cultivate critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
Research indicates that students who lack academic stimulation during the summer often return to school with diminished skills. The Summer Academy combats this by fostering academic engagement, inspiring students to pursue careers in STEM, STEAM, and STEAAM fields.
A Vision for the Future
NASA’s innovative projects exploring space colonization have long included concepts related to astronaut farming—envisioning ways to grow crops in space using techniques that leverage surface tension, wetting, and system geometry in the absence of gravity. This aligns with the broader goals of STEAAM education, which seeks to create sustainable solutions for both Earth and space exploration.
The RFTS Foundation’s 2025 Science Blast STEM/STEAAM Initiative, themed “A Million Miles Away,” and the Summer Academy will inspire students to explore STEAAM fields, equipping them with the skills to shape the future of science and technology.
Thanks to the support of community partners and the dedication of RFTS, students will gain the tools, motivation, and inspiration needed to embrace STEAAM careers—unlocking the potential for groundbreaking discoveries and adventures in space, science, and beyond.
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