active duty; David Sumida (Navy).

Supervisor Janice Hahn at right.Jennelle Cornaggia of The Tappettes explained that the average age of the group is 65 years old.

The Nakamuras were the first Japanese Americans to move into their neighborhood in 1956.Photo by Joel NakamuraYosh Nakamura (center) surrounded by The Tappettes.and his commitment to justice.

past president of the Whittier Art Association.his many years in the education system.

when I asked him what advice he has to others as a 100-year-old.

An array of speakers represented the different communities that Yosh has worked in: from his military days.The old Methodist doctrines against homosexuality are no longer officially part of Centenarys DNA.

the relief and joy in accepting who they were.panelists spoke of the struggle for acceptance.

The first session was a panel of gay and lesbian community members and parents who shared their personal struggles.and struggling to hide their true selves.