Asian American Expo 2010
-The Power of Asian Businesses-

The 29th Asian American Expo took place at the Pomona Fairplex on January 16 and 17. This expo started in 1981 as a means to introduce Asian products in the U.S. market. Over 800 businesses, mainly Chinese, gave away products to appeal to the expo attendees. There were also a number of Japanese businesses, which appealed to the Chinese and other Asian attendees. Japanese businesses changed the flavors of their products to aloe, lychee, white peach and mango, to match the taste of non-Japanese Asian customers. There was also a trend in the Japanese businesses making Chinese food products, to expand their range of customers. Over 10,000 people attended the event.

The Okinawa Association of America’s New Year Event
-Ii Soogwachi Deebiru (Happy New Year)-

On January 17, the Okinawa Association of America celebrated the start of 2010 with a new year event at the Quiet Canyon in Montebello. Over 700 members attended. After an awards ceremony celebrating members who contributed to the group, Okinawa songs and dances were performed on stage. The Okinawa Association of America has many young members, and is hoping to teach the next generation the history and culture of Okinawa.

Japanese Restaurant Association of America Annual New Year’s Reception
-The Future of Japanese Restaurants in 2010-

The Japanese Restaurant Association held its annual New Year’s reception on January 25, at the Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens in Little Tokyo. Over 700 attendees came to exchange ideas regarding the restaurant business. JRA’s President, Katsuya Uechi, believes that businesses must think about the customer’s health and at the same time, entertain customers, to overcome the economic downfall.