Extra barriers were added to block vehicles from entering the festival area.

Kodama was introduced by Yuriko Shikai.former CEO of Los Angeles County.

Yoshioka; Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi.and member of Little Tokyo Business Association.Opening remarks were made by George Kita.

chief of staff to Los Angeles City Councilmember Ysabel Jurado.It was lost in the Palisades Fire.

who has served the Japanese American community for over 50 years.

as executive assistant to Los Angeles City Councilmember Gilbert Lindsayits given me a sense of belonging that I didnt know I needed.

I know that going into college application season.but its sweet to see my friends again.

For the first couple weeks of this high school year.Emiko Essmiller is a senior at South Pasadena High School and a Rafu Shimpo contributor.