September 21, 2012

Message from the Executive Director (Interim)

Hello everyone! I have been the Interim (part-time) Executive Director/CEO of
the JACCC for about one month now and my new title seems to evoke two main
reactions from people I meet in the community. One reaction is “what is going on
over there?” and the other is “let me know if I can help”.

In answer to the first question, the talented and dedicated staff and Board of the
JACCC have been working hard to keep the important programs moving forward.
This weekend (Sept. 22-23), there will be an exhibit at the Center building of the
graceful and delicate art of ikebana flower-arrangements while on the plaza will be
the hurly-burly (and graceful but definitely not delicate) art of sumo-wrestling!

In answer to the second question, I am encouraged that so many people want to
help and support the JACCC which is so important to our community, our heritage,
and our culture - and we need everyone’s help and support. Musical artist Daniel
Ho has offered to help coordinate a Night of Ohana (Hawaiian for “family”) on
November 24, 2012 at the Aratani Japan America Theater – and we will need help
and support from the community to make this event successful and fun. Please
come and join us and be a part of the JACCC “ohana”.

I am hoping in a few months, there will be a new Executive Director/CEO in place to
lead the JACCC into an exciting new vision for the future – and then I can go back to
being full-time retired!

Bill Watanabe
JACCC Interim Honcho