For those who have lived their lives alongside JIS.

I felt like I was such an outsider growing up because I didn’t do a lot of cultural activities.Aiko: We also got to go to other parts of the United States and have excursions to places like San Francisco and Hawaii.

Rafu: How have Nisei Week and the Queen and Court program changed over time?Sara: Initially.I have not participated yet in the Queen and Court Program.Being able to explore more about my culture through the program was amazing.

and are even supporting some of those organizations that we want to bring awareness to.Kara Chu: I am a Shin-nisei Japanese American and fourth-generation Chinese American.

And the ideals in what Nisei Week looks for in a queen has also changed: now its more about things like leadership.

Can you elaborate on this?Sara: Being a member of the Nisei Week Court was an opportunity that allowed me to meet and network with a lot of people from various backgrounds.a Tokyo-based global restaurant group.

is celebrating eight years on Sawtelle this month with a slate of community festivities.Marugame will debut a selection of new dishes created especially for the anniversary.

it is the countrys largest udon chain.Highlights include the return of fan-favorite dishes from the restaurants opening week.