Bridging Generations For An Equitable Future On Maui
By: Chelsea Kau
One of the keynote speakers at the Go For Broke National Education’s National Torchbearer Program Convening said it best: “Talking about things creates space for healing,” said Warren Furutani, a political activist within the Asian American and Pacific Islands (AAPI) community. His face — etched with 77 years of wisdom and resilience — tells its own story.
In any gathering, I instinctively drift toward the “kupuna table,” eager to soak in the rich tapestry of their lives. Stories spill over sips of whiskey, tea or beer, with cigar smoke swirling in the air. It is no surprise that Warren reminded me of the many aunties and uncles back on Maui.
As Torchbearers, we are entrusted with sharing the stories of the Nisei veterans and all who fought for our AAPI rights. It’s both our duty and privilege to shine a light on inequities and injustices, sparking the healing process. Through these heartfelt conversations, we honor their legacy, confront our shared history, and carve a path toward a more equitable future.
Our duty to our community extends beyond just remembering the past; it involves actively working toward a better future for all. It is crucial to understand through all walks of life that each person’s journey is unique yet interconnected. Equitable futures for all means ensuring “basic needs security” and destigmatizing access to care. Basic needs include but are not limited to food, housing, clothing, childcare, mental health, financial resources, and transportation.
In my new role at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College, I focus on ensuring basic needs security for all students. At some point in their educational journey, students may face challenges in accessing adequate amounts of food, housing, financial, or other resources. This is called basic needs insecurity, and millions of college students experience it each year. By addressing these insecurities, we support student success and foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.
BECAUSE OF YOU I AM...
We are entrusted with sharing the stories of the Nisei veterans and all who fought for our AAPI rights.
CHELSEA KAU
NVMC Torchbearer
Additionally, I’m a dedicated case manager for Maui wildfire-affected students, many of whom are from Lahaina. Currently, I’m setting up a food pantry and providing clothing as well as menstrual and dental hygiene products. Through these efforts, we strive to support our students’ well-being and academic success, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive.
Every effort we make to support our community contributes to a brighter, more equitable future. By empathizing with others and addressing basic needs, we help create a society where justice and compassion prevail. Each story we share, and each act of support, becomes a beacon of hope, guiding us toward a world where everyone can flourish.
THIS STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 4 →
THE OKAGE SAMA DE newsletter is a free publication issued by the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center.
We encourage family and friends to submit articles, information, photos, questions, and comments to Nisei Veterans Memorial Center
P.O. Box 216
Kahului, HI 96733-6716
THE NVMC MISSION
The NVMC ignites human potential by inspiring people to find the hero in themselves through the legacy of the Nisei veterans.
THE NVMC VISION
We envision a community where all people act selflessly for the greater good.
THE NVMC VALUES
Being selfless for the greater good. Leading by example. Living in gratitude. Inspiring courage in adversity. Doing the right thing, always.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Deidre Tegarden
ARCHIVE DIRECTOR
Melanie Agrabante
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kyoko Kimura, President
Rachelle Ouye, Vice President
Cathy Shimizu, Treasurer
Linden Joesting, Secretary
DIRECTORS
Cummins ‘Bo’ Mahoe
Michael Munekiyo
Jan Yokouchi
Dana Young
Kirk Kurokawa
Valerie Matsunaga
Letter from the Executive Director
Our spring edition of Okage Sama De was a reflective look back at 2023, so this edition is all about 2024 and what’s keeping us busy. When thinking of a phrase that encapsulates all the activity, “Okage Sama De” comes to mind. Thanks to you, we have been able to do so much.
After Eien Hunter-Ishikawa kicked off January with an exciting Shishimai workshop and performance, the Tankokai Maui Urasenke Tea group opened February with “Hatsudate” (the first Tea of the Year), leaving everyone with a sense of peace. While “exciting and peaceful” may sound like an oxymoron, these two events truly set the tone for the year.
April saw three Maui young professionals — Raina Ouye, Chelsea Kau and Sterling Higa — represent the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center (NVMC) as part of Go For Broke National Education Center’s “Torchbearers” program in Los Angeles. Being able to escort the group, I can happily report that the future is indeed in good hands with these compassionate, engaged and thoughtful individuals. We want to thank Dr. Mitch Maki and the entire team at LA center for creating such a magnificent program and inviting us into the fold.
In May, NVMC Board Chair Kyoko Kimura and I were part of the U.S.-Japan Council’s (USJC) “Kibou (hope) for Maui” Executive Delegation. Prior to our trip, USJC and the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i sent a group of Lahainaluna students to the Tohoku Region in Japan to learn about rebuilding, resilience and hope. It was a very humbling, somber, yet inspiring trip, and the NVMC was honored to be a part of something so much bigger than ourselves and we look forward to staying involved, moving forward.
June was packed full of fun, beginning with our “Makoto Shinkai Anime Festival,” led by Raina Ouye, and ending
Kyoko Kimura, Dr. Genshitsu Sen, and Deidre
with our first campus-wide fundraiser, “Natsu Yasumi,” organized by Tiara Kobayashi-Bautista. KobayashiBautista also designed our Okage Sama De T-shirt. We want to thank all the vendors for making the campus come alive and to all of our supporters who came out and shopped! Mark your calendars for Natsu Yasumi 2 on June 28, 2025.
Organized by NVMC Board Member Michael Munekiyo, Scout Troop 611 from California was here for a day in July, repainting our emergency curbs, weeding the rock garden, and updating our KIA Wall. After their hard work, they were able to enjoy a TJ’s bento while watching the “Our Nobler Selves” DVD, learning more about the WWII Maui Nisei story. We cannot say enough words of gratitude for all their hard work.
While we are on the topic of “Our Nobler Selves” (ONS), for years we have been talking about getting Japanese subtitles on the DVD. Thanks to the Kobe College Graduate School Interpreting and Translation students, under the direction of Professor Susan Jones, we were able to accomplish that goal. Additional thanks go to both Donna Ponce and Brenda Saifuku Yospe who transcribed every word spoken in the DVD and “translated” the pidgin to standard English so that the students could understand the true meaning of what the men were saying.
Our first executive director, Barbara Watanabe, wrote and produced ONS in the early days when the NVMC was raising funds to build the campus. We show the DVD to all our visitors, and no matter how many times you view it, it brings so many emotions to the surface. You can watch it on the NVMC YouTube channel.
In August, 101-year-old, 15th Generation Grand Master of Tea Dr. Genshitsu Sen performed a very special tea ceremony at the Wailuku Hongwanji. The ceremony was to remember all that was lost during the August 2023 wildfires. Prior to the ceremony, Dr. Sen greeted members of the audience. We had planned to gift Dr. Sen a box of 3-D architectural hand-drawn blueprints of Urasenke Tea rooms from across Japan dating back 400 years, that had been gifted to us, as we thought they belonged back in Japan with the Grand Master. Dr. Sen was quite enthusiastic, pointing out names of his ancestors including Sen Rikyu. Dr. Sen insisted, however, that the NVMC keep these historical documents in our archive for posterity.
For those of you who travel, have you seen the beautiful NVMC banner at the airport? Designed by Sae Design Group, utilizing an image from Kirk Kurokawa’s “Quiet
Dignity, Everlasting Honor” mural, it is a beautiful tribute to our Nisei soldiers and all that they did for our community, state and nation ... then and for many generations to come.
In between all these events, we have hosted MSDNV’s “Monthly Movie Matinee,” numerous workshops, talks, and lots of visitors to the exhibit downstairs. Be sure to check out our website at www.NVMC.org to see what the rest of 2024 has in store including our Golf Tournament on Nov. 2! While you are on the website, consider signing up for the Weekly Wednesday Update, a weekly e-newsletter that lets you know what’s happening at the NVMC.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Okage Sama De, we are able to continue moving forward thanks to you.
NISEI VETERANS MEMORIAL CENTER
1 Go For Broke Place, Wailuku
HOURS:
Monday–Tuesday, 12–4 P.M. Thursday–Friday, 12–4 P.M. By Appointment Only
PHONE: (808) 244-NVMC (6862) www.nvmc.org
Deidre with her mother Melinda Clarke at Natsu Yasumi
Millennial’s call to action for young Japanese Americans
By: Sterling Higa
As a Millennial and fifth-generation Japanese-American, my connection with Japanese culture has always been tenuous. My grandmother was the last to speak fluent Japanese. Like many Baby Boomers, my mother was not taught Japanese by her parents, and I inherited her inability to speak Japanese.
Each generation of Japanese Americans faces unique challenges, but my generation has inherited tremendous opportunities. We have avoided the discrimination or incarceration faced by previous generations of Japanese Americans. With this privilege comes responsibility.
My time with the Torchbearers reminded me of the privilege and responsibility of being Japanese-American today. We met and worked with Mitch Maki, director of the Go For Broke National Education Center. He likes to say that “the story of incarceration during World War II is not a Japanese American story. It is an American story.” Being a fifth-generation Japanese American means engaging with all the flaws and features of the United States.
Previous generations worried about integration into American culture; my gen-
My Experience at the Go for Broke Torchbearer’s Trip in LA
By: Raina Ouye
This year’s Go For Broke Torchbearer convening in Los Angeles was one of my most significant opportunities. I learned about the Nisei soldiers’ values during World War II while discussing social and human rights and worldwide issues, including the housing crisis, homelessness, and mental health. The Torchbearer initiative, launched by the Go For Broke Education Center, connects young adults with the enduring values of Nisei WWII soldiers, not only preserving crucial history but also helping individuals navigate contemporary challenges.
On the first day of the convening, the Go For Broke Center president, Mitch Maki, presented America’s Promise. The story struck my heart when an older Japanese-American man, who lived in
Now, it’s time to use that power to promote justice for all.
STERLING HIGA NVMC Torchbearer
eration must grapple with leadership within American culture. We have reached positions of political, social, and economic power at which our ancestors would have marveled. Now, it’s time to use that power to promote justice for all.
The lesson taught by the Nisei veterans and their families is that justice is not automatic. Justice requires champions willing to fight, to carry forward the torch of freedom. As we carry forward the legacy of the Nisei veterans, we steel ourselves to fight for justice in the future.
the internment camps authorized by President Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066, held a crying baby in his hands, knowing he wanted young generations to know and live the stories of the Nisei soldiers and Japanese-Americans bravery and sacrifice during WWII.
While on the convening trip, I got to tour Little Tokyo; there were a lot of historical buildings, including the Japanese confection shop and a temple hidden between the two buildings, which are still standing today since the first Japanese immigrated to Los Angeles in 1869. Seeing Little Tokyo and the historic buildings was fascinating to me because I learned more about the Issei Japanese and Nisei Japanese Americans when they immigrated
It’s in my genetic makeup to want to continue to educate and tell stories.
RAINA OUYE
NVMC Torchbearer
and grew up before being held captive in the internment camps in 1942 (after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in Hawai‘i).
The talks during the Los Angeles convening about the housing crisis, homelessness, and mental health problems made me speak up about my experience with mental health as well. The torchbearer convening experience helped me feel confident and honest enough to speak out about myself and learn about the history of Japanese Americans and Nisei soldiers who hold on to their timeless values.
PHOTO 1: The Go for Broke Monument in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, California, United States as of April 2021. (Uploaded by DocFreeman24, licensed free for reuse to WikiMedia Commons)
PHOTO 2: Raina, Chelsea, and Sterling in Little Tokyo
PHOTO 3: Torchbearers at Go For Broke National Education Center
KANSHA PRESCHOOL:
Celebrating Milestones and New Beginnings
June brought joy to Kansha Preschool as we celebrated seven keiki graduating in a heartwarming ceremony with family and friends. Our gratitude goes to Aunty Deidre and Aunty Mel for hosting us in the resource center.
After a well-deserved summer break, our dedicated teachers returned refreshed and ready to prepare the classroom for an exciting new school year. In August, we warmly welcomed both returning and new keiki, filling our preschool with fresh energy and enthusiasm.
Kansha is immensely grateful to the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center for the instal-
lation of turf in our outdoor play space. It looks great, and the kids had a blast watching the machines do work.
Soon we will be fundraising for outdoor play equipment. Kansha will be sharing opportunities for members in our community to donate and help us reach our goal of providing a unique play space for our children — play that requires children to use their big muscles (gross motor skills) is very important to their development. Working on gross motor skills helps children gain strength. It also builds confidence and helps develop more complex skills for the future. It is our hope that we can provide a safe outdoor space for
children to take risks while playing and exploring their physical abilities.
We remain committed to doing our part in the community by providing quality care to the families and keiki in our care. With Kansha, we thank everyone for their continued support.
PAGE 6 CAPTIONS:
1. First day of school
2. We love taking care of our baby dolls
3. Coloring
4. Our 2024 graduates smiling
Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans Annual Scholarship
ARTICLE CAPTION: The Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans/Maui AJA Veterans scholarship program recently awarded scholarships to Zach Kuraoka (from left), Rachel Takamiya, Arianna Castillo-Medina, Kalia Hendrickson, Chelsey Konno and Caroline Sloper. Not pictured: John Kaahui, Emi Sado, Lincoln Tihada and Shari Peralta.
Photo courtesy: Melanie Agrabante
Ten scholarships of $1,000 were presented to graduates of high schools on Maui by the Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans / Maui AJA Veterans Scholarship Program.
The recipients are:
• Arianna Castillo-Medina, Lahainaluna High School, daughter of Gildardo and Elsa Castillo.
• Kalia Hendrickson, Lahainaluna High School, daughter of Erik and Kathryn Hendrickson.
• John Kaahui, Seabury Hall, son of Edward and Anie Kaahui.
• Chelsey Konno, Maui High School, daughter of Darren and Mayumi Konno.
• Zach Kuraoka, Baldwin High School, son of Jason Kuraoka and Krista Higashiguchi.
• Shari Peralta, Lahainaluna High School, daughter of Marites Peralta.
• Emi Sado, Maui High School, daughter of Michael Sado and Kristina Toshikiyo.
• Caroline Sloper, Kamehameha Schools Maui, daughter of William Sloper.
• Rachel Takamiya, Baldwin High School, daughter of Lance and Cheryl Takamiya.
• Lincoln Tihada, Lahainaluna High School, son of Joseph and Sheri Tihada.
The awards were presented June 9 at the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center Stanley Izumigawa Resource Center in Kahului.
The Maui AJA Veterans Inc. established the scholarship program, and gave the first award in 1951. Scholarships are awarded annually based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, an essay and financial need. This year as a result of delays with the FAFSA program, financial need was not considered.
The major source of scholarship funding has been the annual Chrysanthemum Festival, formerly known as the Chrysanthemum Ball. Funds are raised by contestants who vie to be queen of the event. The Chrysanthemum Festival was not held in 2023.
Among this year’s scholarship recipients is Emi Sado, who was a princess in the 2022 festival court.
The Maui AJA Veterans ran the Chrysanthemum Ball since 1953, and provided hundreds of scholarships over the years. The veterans turned the event over to the Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans in 2007.
When Maui AJA Veterans Inc. dissolved in 2016, it distributed its funds to the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center and to Maui’s Sons and Daughters of the Nisei Veterans.
The MSDNV pledged to use its share to continue the tradition of providing scholarships to worthy Maui high school graduates. They honor Maui AJA Veterans Inc. by retaining its name in the title of the scholarship.
PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
PHOTO 1 CAPTION: Banner at Airport
PHOTO 2 CAPTION: Valerie Matsunaga and Municipality of Castellina Marittima Mayor Giari at Hill 140 Commemoration
Kaoru Muraoka’s Journey from Maui, to 442nd RCT, and back
By: David Fukuda
(The following is a summary of notes taken by David Fukuda during an interview at Kaoru Muraoka’s residence in Pukalani, Maui, on Oct. 13, 2012, at 11:30 a.m.)
I first met Kaoru Muraoka in his Business Equipment store on N. Market Street in the early 1970s, when I was looking for a copy machine. I recall that he was a consummate gentleman, scrupulously honest and fair as a businessman — and very proud of being a veteran of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team (RCT).
Kaoru Muraoka was born on April 19, 1921, the eldest of seven children raised by Tomoyuki and Shizuyo Muraoka. Tomoyuki immigrated from Iwakuni, Japan, to work on the HC&S Sugar Plantation in Sprecklesville. His future bride, Shizuyo, who was born in Hawai‘i, attended school until the 4th grade. She began working in the HC&S sugar fields at age 9. Kaoru
recalled his mother telling him that she once saw a woman give birth to a child in the field, wash the baby in the irrigation ditch, and carry the baby home.
The family moved to Wailuku where Tomoyuki worked for the Maui Shimbun Japanese language newspaper and operated a side business showing movies at the plantation camps. Kaoru would help his father set up a canvas enclosure so others couldn’t peek in on the movies to avoid the 10 cents admission charge.
Kaoru finished high school in 1939. His class was told they would be the first graduating class of Baldwin High School; however, the building was not completed until the following year. Thus, Kaoru’s diploma reads Wailuku High School. By this time, his father was running a service station at the corner of Church and Vineyard in Wailuku, and Kaoru would assist after school and for a time following graduation. He did find employment at the Singer store on Mill and Lower Main, where he repaired sewing machines — both the old treadle and newer electric models.
Pearl Harbor Attack
On the morning of the attack on Pearl Harbor, Kaoru was in the sugarcane fields
outside of Wailuku town, shooting craps with a bunch of his friends. The police cars were racing all around telling people to go home, so the men dispersed. Life changed for the Muraoka family as the gas station’s business fell precipitously because all car owners were limited to a 10-gallon gasoline ration per month. Gas was 21 cents per gallon, and stations were making a gross profit of only 4 cents per gallon, so large sales volumes were necessary to survive.
To make ends meet, Tomoyuki and son Seiji worked as carpenters to build barracks for the military on Molokai while
A ROYAL FRIENDSHIP:
Maui Adult Day Care’s
Heartwarming May Day Celebration
In a touching display of intergenerational bonds, Maui Adult Day Care Centers’ Ocean View facility in Wailuku witnessed an extraordinary May Day celebration this year.
A May Day program is held at every center in the month of May, and each center chooses a court that consists of a king and queen, with a prince and princess to represent each island. The courts are highlighted and have special seating, the centers are decked out with floral decorations, local entertainment is scheduled to come in and perform for the clients, a buffet lunch is served, and families are invited in to enjoy the May Day.
It is so touching because it is truly reminiscent of the days when our clients were
the parents enjoying their child’s May Day and taking pictures, and in our centers that is flipped … caregivers (the former children) are now taking pictures of their elder/adult loved one participating in their May Day program.
On May 9, 2024, our Ocean View Center in Wailuku held its May Day program. A young male client 21 years of age heard about the upcoming May Day program and asked to be the king. Staff was happy to consent, but wondered who they would have as queen. Our young king said he
Kaoru Muraoka
Shizuyo kept the gas station operating. Kaoru made another job move, this time taking on a teller position with Bishop Bank on Pu‘unene and Ka‘ahumanu.
In August 1944, he was drafted and sent to Wahiawa with the 13th Replacement Depot. The approximately 800 men from Hawai‘i were shipped to Angel Island and, a week later, traveled by train to Camp Fannin near Tyler, Texas. A few months into training, the Germans launched the Ardennes Offensive (Battle of the Bulge), and the U.S. Army was desperate for reinforcements. Training for Muraoka’s unit was cut short, and the men were sent off to Ft. Meade for deployment to the European theatre. An untimely measles epidemic hit the recruits and everyone was forced into quarantine, regardless of whether they had previously contracted measles. It was a frustrating period because the men had no weapons, no duties, and they languished for several months. The Battle of the Bulge was over by the time they were shipped out from New Jersey to northern France at Le Havre. The replacements were transported south to Marseilles to join up with the 442nd.
Even here, the men were still kept in isolation as the 442nd was being deployed back to Italy. The 442nd were fighting their way through the Po Valley to the Apennines when the war ended. It was only then that Kaoru joined the 442nd RCT. Officially, he was assigned to Service Company but detached to regimental headquarters where he performed clerical duties.
At the Ghedi Air Base, Kaoru recalls seeing thousands of German prisoners. One scene he cannot forget is entering the prisoner area and seeing a line of female German nurses waving their panties at the GIs. Kaoru enjoyed visiting the surrounding areas including a trip to Rome and two trips to Switzerland in the winter and spring. He describes Switzerland as the “best country in the world” and recalls being invited to and treated by Swiss Army soldiers at night clubs.
The 442nd shipped out of Leghorn to Washington, D.C. to receive special recognition from President Harry S. Truman. Kaoru, because he had too few points (Adjusted Service Rating, aka ASR), was held overseas until September 1946, returning to Maui through
New York, the West Coast, and Honolulu. Once back on Maui, he returned to his job at Bishop Bank where he continued for 17 years. Kaoru also reunited with Fujie Endo, whom he had met prior to going overseas. They had met at a day time dance at the boxing stadium on High and Vineyard Streets.
In the early 1960s, his brother, Seiji, owner of an office supply company called The Maui Book Store, asked Kaoru if he would join him as a technician and help repair business machines. Seiji had acquired the company just after the war when its previous owner offered Seiji the business for essentially the cost of the inventory. He sent Kaoru to Honolulu to learn how to repair typewriters and adding machines at Remington Rand. Then, in 1965, Seiji offered to sell the repair business to Kaoru. Kaoru took advantage of the opportunity and opened Business Equipment in a small shop next door to brother Seiji’s store. In 1976, Kaoru moved into a former grocery store in Happy Valley and operated Business Equipment from that location until his retirement in 2009.
Kaoru passed away at age 96 on September 16, 2017.
would pick his queen, which he did: a 99-year-old female client. She is one of his favorite friends in the center because she is friendly, talkative, and funny. She accepted being his queen when he asked.
On the day of the May Day program, she seemed shy and yet tickled pink to be his queen. Throughout the program, she whispered numerous times that he should pick a young queen like him. “I am too old,” she said. He would softly tell her, “I chose you!”
This May Day program was different than any other we have had in how it bridged the generation gap between young and old to represent the true essence of an adult daycare setting. Age was not an issue just the beauty of friendship, which the two continue to share today along with all of their other friends in the center.
Japan Gospel Choir visits in February 2024
PHOTO 2: Deidre, Chelsea Kau, Mel Agrabante, Rachelle Ouye, GFBNEC CEO Mitch Maki, Val Matsunaga, GFBNEC Maya Hernandez, GFBNEC Hawal Lee, Raina Ouye and Floyd Nagoshi after Dr. Maki’s inspiring talk
PHOTO 3: First Lady Kai‘hi Bissen talks to Kathy Collins for Yakamashii
PHOTO 1: Natsu Yasumi Miki & TiaraKobayashi-Bautista
PHOTO 4: Natsu Yasumi SIlent Auction. Diane Orikasa and Raina Ouye
PHOTO 5: Melanie showing Kaoru Moto’s medals to visitors from Kansai Electric.
PHOTO 6: Natsuyasumi parking crew: Eric Yamashige, Mark Mizuno, Dana Young, Eloisa Mizuno, Bo Mahoe
PHOTO 7: Tankokai Maui Tea Ceremony
PHOTO 8: Sashiko Workshop with Kim Springer
PHOTO 9: Natsu Yasumi Market
PHOTO 10: Brian Tsuruta, Julie Higa, and Students from Okinawa
‘Kibou for Maui’ Builds a Resilient Future Through Cross-Cultural Exchange
By Wendy Abe, Director of External Relations, U.S.-Japan Council
The NVMC recently participated in the Kibou (hope) for Maui project, a groundbreaking initiative that fosters the healing of affected communities, leadership development, knowledge sharing, and resiliency. It is administered by the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) and funded by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. State Senator Troy Hashimoto, NVMC Board President Kyoko Kimura, Executive Director Deidre Tegarden participated alongside USJC members, and Maui leaders to provide leadership and insight to the project planning and delivery.
Japan and Hawai‘i share a profound and unique bond, deeply rooted in cultural and historical ties. In response to the devastating wildfires on Maui, Japan has stepped forward to offer unwavering support for the recovery efforts, reinforcing this special connection.
TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui Program
Following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, USJC’s TOMODACHI Initiative introduced the Rainbow for Japan Kids program, which brought children from Tohoku to Hawai‘i for rest, recuperation, and psychological healing. This act of kindness has come full circle with the TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui Program, where gratitude is being returned by support in the aftermath of the Maui wildfires. In a gesture of reciprocity and solidarity, 30 students from Lahainaluna High School visited the Tohoku area for a week. The visit was designed to foster connections with Japanese peers who have actively contributed to the recovery efforts after the 2011 Tohoku disaster. The students engaged in training and handson workshops aimed at equipping them
with essential skills for contributing to the physical, mental, and spiritual rehabilitation of their communities.
The TOMODACHI Kibou for Maui Program, in partnership with the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai‘i and ODYSSEY Nature Japan, is grounded in the philosophy that firsthand experiences empower youth with empathy, strength, and hope, fostering a generation that is more robust, resilient and ready for future challenges.
Professional and Leadership Visit to Japan
In May, a cohort of Maui leaders including NVMC Board Chair Kyoko Kimura and Executive Director Deidre Tegarden, participated in an educational tour of Japan’s Tohoku region, exploring firsthand the disaster recovery efforts after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake. The visit aimed to facilitate insightful exchanges on resilience and innovative recovery strategies, empowering participants with applicable lessons for Maui’s reconstruction.
The delegation was led by Mayor Richard Bissen and included key Maui leaders from government, private sectors, and nonprofit organizations. A significant focus of the visit was exploring the elements of resilient cities and learning from Japan’s experiences in disaster recovery and resilience.
Knowledge Sharing Seminars
Moving forward, seminars will be held in Japan and on Maui, offering a space where community leaders can learn from Japan’s journey through recovery. These seminars are designed not as a directive, but as an open invitation to share experiences, with the hope of enriching the collective understanding of disaster response, preparedness, and recovery in a way that resonates with Maui’s unique circumstances and needs. Japanese experts, who have themselves walked the path of recovery from disaster, will share their stories and insights to support and inspire the Maui community as they navigate their own experiences. This approach is aimed at empowering Maui’s leaders,
Kibou for Maui student delegation
professionals, and community members with knowledge and tools, encouraging a collaborative and proactive stance towards building resilience and preparing for future challenges together. The project will also include a capstone reception to recap and celebrate the student and leadership visits and seminars.
USJC is deeply thankful to the Government of Japan for funding and supporting this project to bring hope and recovery to the Maui community.
About the U.S.-Japan Council
The U.S.-Japan Council develops and connects global leaders to create a stronger U.S.-Japan relationship. It is an organization whose members believe people-to-people relationships are a powerful way to bring together leaders in the United States and Japan to address and create solutions to mutual concerns. The council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization that was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Washington, DC with staff across the United States and Japan. The U.S.-Japan Council (Japan) maintains an office in Tokyo, Japan.
For more information visit www.usjapancouncil.org.
Kibou for Maui Executive Group
Kibou for Maui student delegation
PHOTO
PHOTO 1: Troop 611 Volunteers
PHOTO 2: Troop 611 Volunteers
PHOTO 3: Troop 611 Gives TLC to the KIA Wall
Checking in with Deidre & Mel
With Thanksgiving and the holiday season on the horizon, NVMC Executive Director Deidre Tegarden and Archives Director Melanie Agrabante recently spent a few minutes reflecting, with gratitude, on the blessings conferred on the Center this year.
The greatest gift, in terms of sheer volume as well as historical significance, was the acquisition of the entire John Tsukano collection. Best known for his extensive documentation of his fellow Nisei soldiers in World War II, Maui-born Tsukano was a member of Coach Soichi Sakamoto’s Three-Year Swim Club before enlisting in the Army. Upon his discharge, he studied journalism at the University of Hawaii, began contributing articles and columns to the Honolulu Star-Bulletin, and eventually became a noted journalist and historian. His 1985 book, “Bridge of Love,” is considered to be the definitive authority on the 100th IFB and 442nd RCT Nisei experience. He also became an ambassador of sorts, helping to establish a sister city relationship between Honolulu and Bruyeres, France. “His goal was for peace in the world and better understanding between people, especially former enemies,” said his former wife, in a July 2005 Star-Bulletin obituary.
The NVMC is honored to be entrusted with Tsukano’s incredibly important collection, which includes a draft of President Harry S. Truman’s remarks on July 15, 1946, in which he told the men of the 442nd, “You fought not only the enemy, but you fought prejudice - and you have won” and looks forward to sharing it with the community in 2025.
By Kathy Collins
Highlights of the year also include the NVMC’s involvement with the U.S.-Japan Council’s Kibou for Maui Project (see article on page 12) and the center’s role as a conduit for support and goodwill in the aftermath of the August 2023 wildfires. A heartwarming example can be seen at Kahului Airport (near Gate 25), where dozens of letters from Japanese schoolchildren and teens, conveyed to the center through the Japanese Consulate, are displayed alongside the NVMC banner and images from Kirk Kurokawa’s stunning mural.
In the center’s downstairs exhibit area, the 442nd RCT has returned to the spotlight, combining several previously viewed panels with new material, including several “pop-up” displays. November’s pop-up on the Battle for Hill 140 will include artifacts from Italy and, on Saturday, November 9, a showing of the film “Hill 140: The Little Cassino” and a panel discussion.
Kathy Collins’ “Yakamashii!” talk story series featured kumu hula Uluwehi Guerrero, retired art instructor Jan Sato, and Maui County First Lady Isabella Ka’ihi Bissen. On November 16, Kathy looks forward to welcoming her Baldwin High School drama teacher and mentor, Sue Ann Loudon, whose former students also include entertainers Amy Hanaiali’i and Eric Gilliom, playwrights Wayne Moniz and Lee Cataluna, and retired Circuit Court judge Joseph Cardoza.
Behind the scenes, the archive digitization project continues to move forward under Melanie’s direction and with the diligent work of her new assistant, Brian Tsuruta. Digitizing the repository is a daunting task, as there are more than 10,000 items to catalog!
Also often unseen, yet vitally important, is NVMC’s team of tireless volunteers, who help with every exhibit, event, and activity. And the center’s paid internship program
is a win-win arrangement, as students learn a variety of job skills while providing manpower and assistance. It’s also a great means of recruiting the next generation of supporters and volunteers.
Youth involvement – and subsequent support – has also come in the form of high school senior projects. One of those students from several years ago, Tiara Kobayashi-Bautista, is now a successful graphic designer. As Tiara Koba Designs, she created this year’s NVMC t-shirt. Current senior Aliya Orikasa is organizing an exciting, elaborate cultural event at the center for her chosen project, scheduled for January 6, 2025. The morning will include a Zenshin Daiko performance and workshop, intergenerational activities, a koto demonstration by Victoria Jacintho, the Keyakiya food truck, and a mini silent auction featuring a wide variety of Japanese dolls.
“It has been a tough year,” Deidre said, “but also very hopeful. We love that these stories are still alive, that people are continuing to donate items to the archive, and that folks are continuing to come, see, and learn…it’s all about facing challenges and moving forward, not just for oneself, but for the community…I hope we are, in a small way, following through and carrying out the legacy of the Nisei veterans.”
As echoed on Tiara’s beautifully designed shirt: Being selfless for the greater good. Leading by example. Living in gratitude. Inspiring courage in adversity. Doing the right thing, always.
Kibou for Maui Reconvening seminar at UH Maui College
Boxing up the John Tsukano collection and getting it ready for its new Maui home
Teeing Off For A Cause
The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center raised funds and awareness for its programs and projects through its 2nd annual golf tournament.
On a sunny day in December, the Wailea Blue Course came alive with purpose and passion as more than 80 golfers gathered for the 2nd Annual Nisei Veterans Memorial Center Golf Tournament — all to honor and preserve the legacy of Nisei veterans while supporting the center’s vital mission.
The tournament, generously sponsored by the Jon and Jan Yokouchi Foundation, brought together a diverse group of supporters. Major sponsors included Service Rentals, Arisumi Brothers, HouseMart, Mahi Pono, and Ulupalakua Ranch, whose contributions were instrumental in making the day a success. The event also received significant support from Maui Oil Company, Matson Navigation, Pacific Pipe, Mutual Underwriters, Sae Design Group, and Aina Lani.
The event was not only a fun and friendly competition, but also a fundraiser and an awareness-raiser for the NVMC’s programs and projects, which aim to inspire people to find the hero within themselves by learning from the Nisei veterans’ stories of courage, sacrifice and resilience.
After Starbucks coffee and Krispy Crème donuts, the golfers headed to the Wailea Blue Course, a scenic and challenging 18-hole course that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the West Maui Mountains. The golfers enjoyed a friendly competition, with prizes for all teams and an opportunity to win a BMW hole-in-one challenge. The prizes included golf equipment, gift cards, hotel stays, and more. The golfers also had a chance to win a Yeti Cooler thanks to platinum sponsor HouseMart.
The golf tournament ended with a delicious lunch from Restaurant Matsu and an awards ceremony where the winners
were announced and congratulated. Golf Chair Jan Yokouchi and her committee — Cathy Shimizu, Rachelle Ouye, Dana Young, and Desi Ting —thanked the sponsors, golfers and volunteers again for their support and generosity. NVMC Executive Director Deidre Tegarden announced that the money raised from the event, which amounted to more than $50,000, would be used for several initiatives: NVMC’s archive digitization project, which aims to make the center’s collection of photos, documents and artifacts accessible online; the Torchbearers Leadership Program, which trains and mentors young leaders to carry on the Nisei veterans’ values and spirit; and the workshops and internship program, which provides opportunities for students and teachers to learn from and work with the NVMC’s staff and experts. Jan and her team invited everyone to join the NVMC’s 3rd annual golf tournament, which will be held on Nov. 2, 2024, at the same venue. She said that she hoped to see everyone again next year, and encouraged them to spread the word about the NVMC and its mission. Jan closed by
Mizoguchi, Hilton
Conrad Ventura, Jim Robinson, Ted Kesaji
saying that the NVMC is grateful for the community’s support and participation, and that together we can honor the past, enrich the present, and shape the future.
3rd Annual NVMC Golf Tournament Details:
The tournament will be held Saturday, November 2, 2024, at the Wailea Blue Golf Course with a two-man team scramble format. The shotgun start is at 7:30 a.m. All proceeds stay on Maui and support the NVMC.
Jason Hozaki, Jason Akamine, Ken Morimoto, Buzz Fernandez—the Matson Team
Paul
Unemori,
PHOTO 1: Masao Motooka’s Birthday
PHOTO 2: Kyoko Kimura; John Smith, County of Maui Highways Chief; and Miki Tsusaka, CEO of Microsoft Japan at US-Japan Council Business Event
PHOTO 3: Rachelle Ouye and George Takei
PHOTO 4: Tsukina Kawamura visits Mayor Bissen
PHOTO 5: MSDNV and NVMC Volunteer Floyd Nagoshi gives talk at Maui High School
PHOTO 7: Visitor Gwen Muranaka
PHOTO 8: Monthly Movie Matinee
PHOTO 9: Kyoko Kimura, Rachelle Ouye Catherine Shimizu Jan Yokouchi and Dana Young at the NVMC Golf Tournament
PHOTO 10: Volunteers Congresswoman Jill Tokuda and Brenda Yospe
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE NVMC
ARMY ($2,500 and over)
ANONYMOUS
County of Maui
David and Judith Fukuda
Goodfellow Bros., Inc
HouseMart Family, Foundation
Lois & Dick Prey
Red Cabin Foundation
Service Rentals & Supplies
The Freeman Foundation
Rickey & Virginia Woo
DIVISION ($2,499 - 1,000)
Terry & Kimberly Dembroski
Hideo & Joyce Kawahara
Maui Chemical & Paper Products
Maui Disposal
Maui Hotel and Lodging Association
Mid-Pacific Pest Control
Paul & Jesse Mizoguchi
James Onoda
IN MEMORY OF HIDEO ONODA
Jonathan & Jill Ross
Ulupalakua Ranch
Gary Sato & Susan Takamatsu
IN MEMORY OF MASAO SATO
REGIMENT ($999 - 500)
Myrtle Agrabante
Merle & Lorna Beghtel IN MEMORY OF HISASHI YOSHIHARA
Albert & Julia Morita
Yukio & Jane Okuda
James & Suzanne Takamiya
Karen Tamanaha
Susan Watanabe
Martin Oiye & Susan Nakagawa IN MEMORY OF OSAMU & IRENE NAKAGAWA
Brian & Faith Griffith
Shigehiro Komaru
BATTALION ($499 - 250)
Rudolph & Anne Andrade
Cades Schutte
Linda Cornwell
Derek Fujikawa
Wayne & Jill Gushiken
James Hampton
Ronald Hayashida IN MEMORY OF HIDEYUKI HAYASHIDA
Raymond & Francis Hirano IN MEMORY OF TOSHIO OKAMURA
Hester Honda
Gail & Winford Ideue
Robert & Edith Matsumoto
Peggy Mizumoto
Lisa Oyama IN MEMORY OF MARK HARBISON & IN MEMORY OF YOSHIAKI “TOM” AND MASAKO “BETTY” OYAMA
Joe & Jill Ozaki
Nancy Sagawa
Claire Sato
Marissa Singleton
Celia Suzuki
Larry Takumi
Gail & Roy Wakamatsu IN MEMORY OF IRENE & OSAMU NAKAGAWA
FOR THE PERIOD ENDING AUGUST 2024
Merle Watanabe
Marilyn Yuen IN MEMORY OF TERUO ANZAI
COMPANY ($249-100)
Patrick Arakawa IN MEMORY OF PAUL Y. ARAKAWA
Roberta Arita
Joseph & Donna Caimi
Robert and Geraldine Carroll
Jenna Carroll
Beatrice Chong
Ann Kabasawa & Clyde Sugimoto
Masao & Adeline Daida
Hi Family
Keene Fujinaka
Gwendolyn Fujie IN HONOR & MEMORY OF ALL NISEI VETERANS
Wessen & Lydia Furomoto
Ellen Furukawa
Joy Galo
Kenneth Hagan
Wendy Hamai
Terri Hamasaki IN MEMORY OF KAZUICHI & TADAYOSHI HAMASAKI
Glenn & Linda Hashiro
Edward Hashiro
Roy & Gwen Hiraga
Koji & Sumie Ikeda
Cynthia Ikeda
Lawrence Ing IN MEMORY OF MEYER UEOKA
Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii
DONATE TO THE NVMC ENVELOPE ENCLOSED WITH NEWSLETTER
Please show your support for the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center
Robert and Sakae Kawaguchi
Kealakehe High School
Kay Kobayashi
Gale Kobayashi
Tiara Kobayashi-Bautista
Marian Kubota
Leona Kushi
Winona Lau Hee
Tilden Jio & Leonid Pesin-Melzer IN MEMORY OF MITSUGU & RACHAEL JIO
Ed & Jackie Linn
Maila & Co.
Jason Matsui IN MEMORY OF OTOYO SHIRLEY MATSUI & ERIC MASASHI OURA
Patrick Matsui
Gail Miyahira
Eric & Elaine Miyajima
Howard & Frances Miyamoto IN MEMORY OF WALLY UEKI & MITSUO ARISUMI
Merle Momita
Wendy Mukai
Zane Mukai
Faye Murayama
Cathleen Murayama
Norman Nagata
Kenneth & Doris Nakakura IN MEMORY OF SUSUMU NAKAGAWA, WALTER MINAAI & CHUCK HAZAMA
Robi Nitake
Warren Oda
Leonard & Laurel Oka
Sharon Okada IN MEMORY OF SADAMI JAMES OKADA
Your tax-deductible contribution will help the Nisei Veterans Memorial Center maintain the NVMC “Living Memorial” campus and fulfill its mission of promoting understanding about the history, values and culture of the Nisei veterans among our community’s children, families and visitors.
For credit card contributions, please fill out and enclose bottom portion into donation envelope. For other donation options, please visit our website, www.nvmc.org or call (808) 244-6862 with any questions you may have.
Please charge my donation of $ to: VISA MASTERCARD
NAME (MR./MRS./MS.)
ACCOUNT NUMBER
SIGNATURE EXPIRATION DATE
DATE PHONE NUMBER
Bailey Onaga
Liana Otake
Donna Ponce
Mary Rabold
Miki & Lucas Rotman
Ken & Kelvyn Saito
IN MEMORY OF SUENO & TAKAAKI SAITO
Hachiro & Susan Shimanuki
IN MEMORY OF GOICHI SHIMANUKI
Chuck Shishido
Allen & Janice Shishido
Anna Mae Shishido
Joy Smith
Helene & Roy Sokugawa IN MEMORY OF TERRY S. HIGA
Joan Soma
Arthur Suzuki
IN MEMORY OF CLAIRE SUZUKI
Ann Takakura
Lance Takamiya
Gary & Marci Takemoto
George & Shirley Tanaka
Elaine Tanaka
Cora Tasaki
Susan Tokuhama
Ronald Tomita
Ashley Torricer
Janice Toshikiyo
Joan Tsuji
Brian Tsuruta
Dawn Ueki
Kyle & Colette Watanabe
Susan Wilson
David & Brenda Yospe
Leslie & Alice Yamanaka
Larry & Joan Yokoyama
Mae Yorimoto & Family
Tadao & Sakaye Yoshimoto
PLATOON ($99 & BELOW)
Melanie Agrabante
Shelley Baker-Gard
Gene & Beryl Bal
Marilyn Barbosa
Danae Cabreros
Melinda Clarke
Kyle Clarke
Kathy Collins
Kathleen Crosby
Lynn Curtis
Susan Dias
Dennis & Charlene Doi
Julia Ellis
Derek Fujikawa
Edwin & Delia Fukuji
David & Sue Fukushima
Victoria Gray
Sharmen Graydon
Wayne & Jill Gushiken
Juliana Higa
Alexa Higashi
Arnold & Shirley Hill
Lilian Hiyama IN MEMORY OF MASAMI MAEDA AND IN APPRECIATION OF MADCC
Melinda Ishii
Donald and Faith Ito
Christopher Jung
Keith Kadokura
Randy Kao
Randy Kao
Helene Kau
Karlynn Kawahara
Pearl Kaya
IN MEMORY OF GEORGE KAYA
Richard & Janis Kinoshita
Linda Kiyabu
Rene Komoda
Ron & Maytyle Kono
Dennis Koyonagi
Sherrie Kumashiro
Keilyn Kuramitsu
Linda Kushi
Kelly Labuanan-Kalua
Judy Lindstrom
Wayne & Joyce Maeda
Jinchi Matsudo IN MEMORY OF GINYEI MATSUDO
Margaret Matsumoto IN MEMORY OF KATSUI JINNOHARA
Dan & Susan Michibata
Marvin & Sharon Mitani
Mark & Eloisa Mizuno
Karen Motooka
Guy & Eunice Muraoka
Floyd and Sharon Nagoshi
Katy Nishimoto
Carol Nitake
Stephen & Geralyn Onaga
Diane Orikasa
Raina Ouye
Richard Priest
Rodney Ryugo
Brian and Patsy H. Saki
David Sakurai
Lee Seki
Joyce Shimizu
Ira & Marilyn Tagawa
Ann Takakura
Rachel Takamiya
Ralph Takata
Chad Tamayose
Edward and Joan Tamori
Gail Terada
Harold and Irene Teraoka
Maureen Vandenburgh
Stanley Vidinhar
Gail & Roy Wakamatsu
Charlotte Wilkinson
Nancy Yamashita
Robert & Jane Yanabu
CORRECTION:
In the Spring 2024 OSD, a “Division Level” donation was mistakenly credited to Ms. Barbara Long. It should be credited to “Friends of Old Maui High”.
P.O. BOX 216 KAHULUI, HI 96733-6716
The tournament, generously sponsored by the... Read more on page 15.
On a sunny day in December, the Wailea Blue Course came alive with purpose and passion as more than 80 golfers gathered for the 2nd Annual Nisei Veterans Memorial Center Golf Tournament — all to honor and preserve the legacy of Nisei veterans while supporting the center’s vital mission.
The Nisei Veterans Memorial Center raised funds and awareness for its programs and projects through its 2nd annual golf tournament.
Teeing Off For A Cause
Read more on page 12
The NVMC recently participated in the Kibou (hope) for Maui project, a groundbreaking initiative that fosters the healing of affected communities, leadership development, knowledge sharing, and resiliency. It is administered by the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC) and funded by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
‘Kibou for Maui’ Builds a Resilient Future Through Cross-Cultural Exchange
This year’s Go For Broke Torchbearer convening in Los Angeles was one of my most significant opportunities. I learned about the Nisei soldiers’ values during World War II while discussing social and human rights and worldwide issues, including the housing crisis, homelessness, and mental health. The Torchbearer initiative, launched by the Go For Broke Education Center, connects young adults with the enduring values of Nisei WWII soldiers... Excerpt from Raina’s story on page 4.
