and we all speak about the importance of preserving our culture.

YAMAMOTO / Rafu Shimpo The Southeast Japanese School and Community Center in Norwalk held its 62nd annual Cultural Festival and Ondo on June 7 and 8.electric folk songs (ultraminyo).

Kids enjoyed Donation Ball and other games.Hikari Taiko/Soran BushiNew York-based Happyfunsmile performed a blend of Okinawan pop.Happyfunsmile performed on stage and also provided live music for the ondo.

Volunteers were hard at work in the food booth area.Hikari Taiko is based at SEJSCC.

festival rhythms and Obon beats.

social hour from 4:30 to 5:30 p.We got to see our Nisei Week family again this year.

we participated under the name Bando Mitsuhiro Kai.and I still vividly remember it.

yes — but more than anything.I hope we can all share in that joy together.