JCCSC’s Year-End Party
-President Handa’s Plans for 2010-

On December 17, 2009, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Southern California held its year-end party at the Kyoto Grand in Little Tokyo. Participants looked back on surviving 2009, despite the threatening economy. President Toshio Handa says he plans to tie the Japanese American and Japanese communities of Southern California in 2010.

Sharing is Caring Holiday Luncheon
-A Christmas Present to the Local Community-

On December 26, 2009, The Salvation Army held its annual Christmas luncheon at the Torrance Marriott. Over 1,000 homeless and families in need were invited to enjoy a free Christmas lunch. Over 150 volunteers from American Honda, in its 19th year of sponsoring the event, voluntarily serve food. Despite the cold weather and economy, the day ended in a warm atmosphere.

The 121st Rose Parade
-"A Cut Above The Rest"-

The 121st Rose Parade made its way down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena on New Year’s Day. Parade onlookers welcomed Grand Marshal Captain Chesley Sullenberger, the airplane pilot who saved 155 lives in an emergency landing in the Hudson River last January. This year’s parade was themed "A Cut Above the Rest." The Kansai Honor Green Band, who flew in from Japan, participated in the parade for the first time. American Honda’s float, shaped as a ship, had masts representing 7 philanthropic children’s charities. The forty-one floats traveled down the 5.5-mile parade route, marking a bright beginning for 2010.

JCCSC's Oshogatsu in Little Tokyo
-Celebrating a Japanese New Year in Los Angeles-

On January 1, 2010, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Southern California held its annual event “Oshogatsu in Little Tokyo.” Nisei Queen Dana Heatherton and the Nisei Court, along with other local dignitaries, participated in the event. Over 1,000 locals came to celebrate a traditional Japanese new year.