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Remarks by C.G. Kamo 

at the 37^th Annual Senior Citizens Festival (Nenchosha Ian Engei Taikai)

September 25, 2011

Good Morning! I am sorry that I was late to come. It is my honor to be invited to this gathering. As you can see from my attire, I was directly from the Punch Bawl event this morning. They held the Americans of Japanese Ancestry (AJA) veterans annual memorial service at the Punch Bawl this morning. It was a moving ceremony that we gathered to honor AJA Nisei soldiers and veterans who fought bravely for their nation. The full scope of military honor and courtesy was offered to recognize their service and sacrifice.

And now I am joining you here in a more joyous and relaxed mood to celebrate the longevity of those Japanese Americans who turned 80 years old this year. I think that this is a civilian version of annual ritual where we gather to thank and recognize our senior people for their contribution to the community all through their long life. In the Punch Bawl ceremony, Japanese valor and dedication was much praised, here at the Nenchosha no Kai, we cherish and enjoy Japanese culture and our aesthetic traditions that have been demonstrated since morning by many performers who are entertaining us with their songs and dances.

I am particularly thankful to this event which gives me an opportunity to think of my mother. My mother is now 85 years old, getting old and senile in Japan. This is my third attendance to the event. I remember that at my first attendance I pledged to call my mother on the phone every week. Last year, I confessed to my audience that I failed to keep my promise to call my mom regularly. And this is my third year. Whatever pledge I may make before you would fall your deaf ear. Well, when I call her up, I try to encourage and cheer her up. But, in fact, I would find myself being encouraged instead. Although I am not young any more, after all I am still her boy.

Lastly I would like to extend my congratulations to today’s honorees for their longevity and true success in life with their families. You deserve to be proud of your good health and accomplishments. Be safe and live long!

Thank you..