Japan America Society’s Green Conference
-Japan and America Discuss Environmental Issues-

Japan America Society’s Green Conference was held on May 13, 2009, in Torrance.

The purpose of this conference is for Japan and America to discuss environmental issues from each country’s perspective. In its third year, the conference invites state and city level officials to speak about new technological advancements and policies.

One of the more popular topics this day was solar energy. Dario Gomez, from Mayor Villaraigosa’s office, says that Los Angeles is now working on implementing a system that can rely on solar energy.

The Consulate-General of Japan in Los Angeles, Junichi Ihara, spoke on Japan’s newest technology, and urged that Japan and America, as a good example of developed countries, should create and meet energy efficient goals.

After the panel, a reception was held for the businessmen who attended the conference for a chance to socialize and further discuss how to better the environment.

Children’s Day Celebration
-Celebrating a Japanese Tradition-

JACCC, Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, held its 26th annual Children’s Day Celebration on May 16, 2009.

The Chibi-K Run, a mini-marathon for 170 four to twelve-year-olds, was held in the morning.

A festival was also held in the JACCC plaza. There were arts and crafts, including koinobori-making. Inside the JACCC building, local professionals and artists taught “Cultural Discovery Workshops,” including Japanese-confectionary making.

Little Tokyo’s streets were filled with children who were curious to learn more about their Japanese culture.