August 2 & 3, 2014

Sponsors of the 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair

Additional support provided by

Proud Sponsor of the

41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair

Welcome!

Last year the Nihonmachi Street Fair celebrated a milestone reaching our 40th year. In a city
that prides itself in street fairs, the Nihonmachi Street Fair in Japantown (J-Town) seeks to
celebrate more than its Japanese-American roots it invites and encourages the inclusion of
diverse interests both Asian and non-Asian-Pacific based.
Back in 1973, the Nihonmachi Street Fair was hatched as an idea to provide leadership and
mentorship opportunities for the youth of J-Town and to honor the Asian American heritages.
As the Citys diversity and cultural awareness has grown, so has the street fairs focus. The
Nihonmachi Street Fair considers itself the original melting pot of street fairs, with many
aspects of Asian-Pacific American lifeand San Franciscos cultural lifeexpressed through
performance, tradition, art, music, food, and community outreach and service. The formula
must work since over 30,000 guests participated in the 2013 event and theyre still here to
celebrate its forty first year!

For the Community,

Embracing All Comunities

The Nihonmachi Street fair will once again be a showcase for local and uniquely San
Francisco talent and entertainment that spans cultural and generational genres: Taiko, hiphop, reggae, island, salsa, rock, jazz, spoken word and more on two anchor stages. Grammy
Award nominees playing back to back with upcoming musical talent.
The Nihonmachi Street Fair proudly evolves to reflect the city it celebrates while staying true
to its original idea: to use this event as a platform to mentor Asian-Pacific American youth
and foster their leadership and communication skills through volunteerism and community
service. The event is produced, staffed, and organized by volunteers, whom provide practical,
hands-on experience for our young volunteers. Here they learn to collaborate, organize and
take action.
Thank you to our many sponsors to Clear Channel Outdoor and the SFMTA who put the
Street Fair on the map and have helped this community festival be noticed. With your support
we will continue to be a Festival that is For the Community, Embracing All Communities.

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 3

Something for Everyone!

The 41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair invites the public to join us
and celebrate our past, present, and future through education, service,
entertainment, and fun!
Food Fest: Local nonprofit organizations and small businesses serve various food items,
including kabobs and BBQ, plate lunches, boba drinks, and kettle corn. Offering a mix
of Asian Pacific flavors and American street fair delights, this years food vendors include
JapaCurry, How Ya Bean, Saigon BBQ, and Bombzies BBQ. Local non-profit organizations
like Kimochi, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, and Asian American Recovery Services will sell
food as a fundraisers for their organizations.
Entertainment: From traditional hula dancing to jazz, reggae and hip-hop music acts, the
event is known for its exciting and live performances. Attendees can catch a variety of dance
demonstrations and cultural displays on two separate stages, the Webster Street Stage and
the Clear Channel Outdoor Stage.
Childrens World: This section of the fair features Asian-inspired crafts and games that kids
and families can participate in together. The 2014 Northern California Cherry Blossom Queen
and her court will oversee the fun. The kids can learn about different cultures through fun
activities, while being introduced to the Nihonmachi Street Fair experience, with the hope
that they too will someday return to volunteer for the event when they get older.
Doggie World: Local animal experts and adoption agencies will be on hand to offer tips
and information, and all are invited to enter their pups in the third annual Doggie World
parade. This years proceeds from the Doggie Parade will benefit San Francisco Animal Care
& Control and local rescue organizations. To register for the parade, please visit our Doggie
World booth.
Asian Artisans: Participants can browse for fine handmade crafts, toys, clothing and
other goods for sale in the Asian Artisans area, as well as meet the artists themselves, who
come from all over the Bay Area and beyond; some of whom have been participants in the
Nihonmachi Street Fair for more than 20 years. Some of the artisans at this years street
fair include: Fat Rabbit Farm, Kimochi Inc., Sumofish, Waka by Waka Ozawa, and Kayoko
Designs.
Nonprofit and Corporate Info Tables: Nihonmachi Street Fair features information
tables for both non-profit and corporate organizations. This is a wonderful opportunity for
fair attendees to learn more about various organizations, as well as for organizations to get
involved in community outreach and network with a diverse crowd of youth, families, and
seniors. Non-profit organizations including the Asian American Donor Program, Parents,
Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays, Nihonmachi Little Friends, the San Francisco
Police Department Northern Station, will host information tables at this years event.
NEW FEATURES AT THIS YEARS NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR:
1ST Annual No. CA Adult Co-Ed Basketball Tournament: To celebrate the 41st
anniversary of the Nihonmachi Street Fair in San Franciscos Japantown through bringing
together adult men and women in a friendly basketball tournament in order to promote
camaraderie between Asian American communities within the greater Bay Area and
beyond. Come by the Japanese Cultural & Community Center of Northern California to see
the action!
Sounds of Thunder Car Show: Muscle Car & Vintage Truck enthusiasts can stop by our
Sounds of Thunder Car Show at lower Post. A non-competitive exhibit for local car owners
to present to the public their custom cars. A great opportunity for you to learn more about
muscle cars and vintage trucks from the owners themselves!
4 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Back to Back Entertainment!

The Nihonmachi Street Fair Entertainment has always been one of the
must see events of the summer. This year our two anchor stages: Webster
Street Stage and the Clear Channel Outdoor Stage will showcase outstanding
entertainment from various genres. From jazz to rhythm & blues, blue grass to
Hawaiian ukelele & mele, youll see amazing talent which we are all so proud
to present. All have supported not only the Nihonmachi Street Fair, but have
lent their talent to many other nonprofits here and abroad. Spreading that
community spirit, sharing the Aloha through their music and performance.

Clear Channel Outdoor Stage

Webster Street Stage

Saturday, August 2

Saturday, August 2

11:00

West Coast Lion Dance

11:00

11:30

Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band

12:00 Rockblood

12:15

Divas SF featuring
Savannah Summers

1:00

Salsa Caliente featuring Gary Flores

2:00

Love Struck

12:45

Shogo Yamada & Friends

3:00

Tracy Cruz

Kevin Wong & The Bassment

1:15
Mark Izu & Brenda

Wong Aokis Kabuki Cabaret -
featuring:

Masaru Koga, Shoko Hikage,

Janet Koike, Kenny Endo,

Akira Tana, and Kai Kane Aoki Izu

4:00 TBD

1:45

Halau Ke `Olu Makani Ka

`Ohu Mai Ka Lani,
under the direction of
Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel

11:00

2:15

Faith Ako and Friends

2:45

Akira Tana and

OTONOWA (Sound Circle)

3:15 Makalii
3:45

Ben Ahn

4:15

Corey Wolffs

5:00

Curt Yagi & the People

Standing Behind Me

5:00

LP Band

Sunday, August 3
Dream Rush

12:00 TBD
1:00

Pacific Soul Band

2:00 Ascension
3:00

Big City Review

4:00

Johnny Hi-Fi

5:00 Rendezvous

Sunday, August 3
11:30

Blessed Love Gospel Reggae Band

12:00

Raymond Akahi Macapagal

12:30

Manuia Polynesian Revue

1:15

Francis Wong & Friends

1:45

Mango Kingz

2:30

San Francisco Taiko Dojo

3:15

Steven Espaniola

4:00

Nathan Aweau

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 5

Our Entertainers...
Akira Tana and OTONOWA (Sound Circle)
The genesis of this group, Otonowa (Sound Circle) comes from the title a recording of the
same name translated into English that was released a number of years ago in Japan on King
Records and in the US on Evidence Music. The group, then, was called the Asian American
Jazz Trio.
Three years ago this ensemble was reformed with the name Otonowa, having been a
asked to perform for a benefit concert at the Elsewhere Gallery in Fairfax, Ca. for the victims
of the Earthquake/Tsunami in Northern Japan. Subsequently this group performed at the
first anniversary last year and after performing again in 2012 for the 2nd time, traveled to
Northern Japan in March of 2013. Otonowa just completed a successful return trip in July
of 2014 to the still rebuilding communities of Tohoku.
Otonowa features contemporary jazz interpretations of the songs of Japan, both old and
new.

Ascension
Ascension is an R&B/Funk-oriented cover band that is jam packed with talent and experience.
Comprised of a hand-selected group of incredible artists, Ascension is a diverse group that is
committed to consistently delivering mind-blowing performances. The line-up includes the
powerful vocals of Judy Padilla and Ezekiel Ziek McCarter. On keys and background vocals
is Rick Dorer and the smooth, classically trained Christian Houston. The outstanding bass
lineup and beats are produced by Oshimin Oden and LaDante Smith, who keep the party
jumping. The band is rounded out by the professional guitar tunes of Chis Meek.

Ben Ahn
Born and raised on the island of Kaua`i, Ben studied the piano, trumpet, and baritone before
taking up his four-stringed love. He moved to Oregon in 1999 to study at Southern Oregon
University, where he began to take the stage regularly with a band, Melemana. With Ben
on lead vocals and lead ukulele, the five-person group became a regular headliner in the
local bar scene and recorded two self-produced albums before separating in 2004.

Big City Revue

Big City Revues musical organization consists of versatile, seasoned musicians who understand
the commitment of getting the music and sound right!!!but it doesnt end with the
music! When youre talking Big City Revue, you have to factor in four of the most incredible
performers in the industry. Lead vocalists Pam, Jayne, Phil and Jerry are the secret ingredient
that drives the bands performance and truly sets them apart from the numerous bands that
have followed in their footsteps.

Blessed Love Gospel Reggae Band

Sanctified and commissioned to reach the lost through the uncompromising Word of God
with reggae music, and to disciple those who have been reached, to fulfill our Kingdom
Assignment here on earth. Blessed shall you be when you come in and blessed shall you be
when you go out. ~Deut. 28:6~ Blessed be the Lord forevermore! Amen and Amen. ~Ps.
89:52~ We are BLESSED LOVE GOSPEL REGGAE BAND

Corey Wolffs

6 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Corey Wolffs is a classically trained violinist from San Mateo, California. By mixing his love of
contemporary music, violin, and technology, he has created a unique urban sound that he has
brought to stages across California and beyond. He has performed on television and on the
radio and has competed in competitions such as MyxTV Press Play, Battle Among Talents, and
Kollaboration SF. Morphing classical technique into contemporary music, he is the Bay Area
Urbalinist.

Curtis Yagi and The People Standing Behind Me

San Francisco based singer songwriter Curt Yagi has been on a tear through the Bay Area music
scene. The 2008 Best of the Bay Singer Songwriter (SF Bay Guardian) has his song Sweep
Me included on the very popular KFOG Local Scene 8 CD (hear what Renee Richardson of
KFOG had to say) in the Bay Area. Curt and his full band, The People Standing Behind Me,
are always-engaging to the crowd and bring a blend of happy acoustic rock with a touch of
funk for flavor.

Divas SF featuring Savannah Summers

These Divas are professional entertainers here in San Francisco and their entertainment style
ranges from Las Vegas impersonations to island style dances. Involved with many non profit
organizations. These Divas who hold multiple titles, donate their time and talent to raise funds
here in the Bay Area and abroad. Their Mission Statement is to promote equality for all, and
share the spirit of Aloha.

Faith Ako and Friends

As the Bay Areas premier female artist in Traditional/Contemporary Hawaiian music for more
than a decade, Faith Ako has long graced the West Coast with her versatile voice. She won
two Hawaiian Music Awards for her first album Kukahi, and her second album, Papaku Bring
It Home, earned Faith a Hawaiian genre Grammy entry in 2010.
Faith continues to delight the crowds with her sultry voice and passion for Hawaiian music.
Listening to Faiths leo nahenahe, will conjure the essence of island Aloha without ever leaving
home.

Francis Wong & Friends

Few musicians are as accomplished as Francis Wong, considered one of the great
saxophonists of his generation by the late jazz critic Phil Elwood. A prolific recording artist,
Wong is featured on more than forty titles as a leader and sideman. For over two decades
he has performed his innovative brand of jazz and creative music for audiences in North
America, Asia, and Europe with such with such luminaries as Jon Jang, Tatsu Aoki, Genny
Lim,William Roper, Bobby Bradford, John Tchicai, James Newton, Joseph Jarman, Don Moye
and the late Glenn Horiuchi.
But to simply call the Bay Area native a musician would be to ignore his pioneering leadership
in communities throughout Northern California. Wongs imaginative career straddles roles
as varied as performing artist, youth mentor, composer, artistic director, community activist,
non-profit organization manager, consultant, music producer, and academic lecturer. Key
vehicles for his work are Asian Improv aRts, the company he co-founded with Jon Jang and
as a Senior Fellow at the Wildflowers Institute.

Johnny Hi-FI
With over 10 years, 10 albums + EPs and numerous North America and Asia tours under
their belt, Johnny HiFis alternative rock sound has captured fans all over the world. The
band has made many appearances on TV and radio stations across the globe including MTV,
CBS, and Billboard Magazine. They have also performed in more than 50 US cities and in
countries such as Taiwan, Japan, China, Hong Kong and Canada. Johnny HiFi is now based
in Los Angeles and working on new music, videos and tours. Connect with the band on
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 7

Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band

The Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band is an ohana [family] of Hawaiian music performers made
up mostly of Overseas Hawaiians and Hawaiians at heart who are working to preserve and
perpetuate the unique Hawaiian culture and local lifestyle. The basic performing unit of
the band is a trio, but can be tailored to fit your event. We come with our aloha colors and
our own sound system, so performances can be either acoustical or amplified electronically.

Halau Ke `Olu Makani Ka `Ohu Mai Ka Lani,

under the direction of Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel
Halau Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa is based in Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii. The halau is under
the direction of Kumu Hula Meleana Manuel. Kumu Meleana received her uniki from Hula
Master George Lanakilakeikiahialii Naope. The halau is currently in its 21st year and also
has divisions in several areas of Japan. Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa was started in 1990.
With a promise to her Kumu, Kumu Meleana opened the halau in order to perpetuate the
Hawaiian culture and carry on the lineage of her hula tree. Their mission is to enlighten,
encourage and educate all that seek knowledge through hula.

Kevin Wong & the BASSment

Kevin Wong & the BASSment is composed of musicians who combine innate talent with
sparkling original tunes, humor, style, and a dynamic musical signature that has garnered
acclaim from the moment they first took the stage years ago. Guitarist Cedricke Dennis,
drummer Dante McClinton and key bassist/organist and bandleader Kevin Wong make up
one of the most unique & versatile bands. Kevin Wong & the BASSmentcombines jazz,
blues, funk, soul, & everything in between to create a tasteful melange of musical chemistry.

Lovestruck
Love Struck was formed by Paula Cladine Hobson-Soard and Jesus Angel Mora. The
collaboration of their unique musical styles form a warm sensual upbeat jazz soft rock
infusion sound that captivates and soothes the soul of the listener.

LP
The LP Live Performance Band is one of SF Bay Areas talented groove bands, sharing their
musical skills for over 10 years. Known for their vivacious sound of Funk, Motown R&B,
and Top40 along with favorite cover-songs from the 60s to present, their passion for good
music keeps the crowd captivated and ultimately singing along with every note! Among the
members are seasoned professionals having shared the stage with The Whispers,Tower of
Power, Pete Escovedo, ConFunkShun, Lava and EnVivo.

Makalii
Makalii is a contemporary Hawaiian music group out of the East Bay. Members include
Keoki Cortez, Perry Perriera, Pierre Ramos, Jerry Gillgren, Roger T. The members of Makalii
have an extensive performance history as artists/musicians. Each one of our members have
performed for over forty years with other musicians/bands and are now creating music as
Makalii.

8 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Mango Kingz
The Mango Kingz are a group of five guys who have come together with the common
passion for island style music and spreading aloha to those who love to groove. Mix Jawaiian
reggae beats and catchy lyrics together and you get what the Mango Kingz are known for,
that feel-good Island Flava music. Their music combines intricate vocal harmonies and an
upbeat island tune for a style that appeals to the masses. With that in mind, for 14 years
strong, theyve been working towards that dream to Spread a little Aloha around the
world.

Mark Izu & Brenda Wong Aokis Kabuki Cabaret

Featuring: Masaru Koga (winds), Shoko Hikage (bass koto & vocals), Janet Koike (taiko &
percussion), Kenny Endo (taiko & percussion), Akira Tana (drum & vocal), and Kai Kane Aoki
Izu (hip hop)
Emmy Award-winning composer Mark Izu and nationally-renown storyteller Brenda
Wong Aoki join Asian American jazz musicians to perform spoken word and hiphop dance from their fantasy musical MU. Izu and Aoki are designated artists for
Suite J-Town, a 2015 event to celebrate S.F. Japantowns centennial. Nathan Aweau
Masaru Koga - Award-winning, multi-instrumentalist, Masaru Koga considers himself a
product of the Japanese corporate globalization movement of the 1970s. Born in Chiba,
Japan, his childhood and teenage years were spent living in Japan, the U.S. and what was
then West Germany. He has been a part of its musical community for the past 15+ years.
Shoko Hikage - Began her koto playing at the age of three while growing up in Japan. She
studied koto under Chizuga Kimura of the Ikuta-ryu Sokyoku Seigenkai in Akita Prefecture,
Japan. Graduated from Takasaki College with a major in koto music, she was accepted as a
special research student in Sawai Sokyoku In where she subsuquently received her masters
certification. She continues her pursuits in improvisational dance and music here in San
Francisco.
Janet Koike - Janet began her taiko training with San Francisco Taiko Dojo. After touring
Indonesia with Keith Terrys Body Tjak, she returned to the US to complete her training
with San Jose Taiko. As part of SJTs Artistic Staff, Janet contributed songs to their repertoire,
and created a school program presented in over 75 schools. She continues to compose
songs, many of which are part of Emeryville Taiko, Moab Taiko and Odaiko New Englands
repertoire and is also director of the non-profit organization Rhythmix Cultural Works.
Kenny Endo - One of the leading artists in contemporary percussion and rhythm. He continues
to pave new paths in this Japanese style drumming even after thirty-five years as a career
taiko player. A performer, composer, and teacher of taiko Kenny Endo is a consummate
artist, blending Japanese taiko with rhythms influenced from around the world into original
melodies and improvisation.
Akira Tana - Recognized for his ability to ignite the spark of many top rhythm sections and
create pure musical dialogue with mainstay soloists, his colorful interactive style has led
to concert, club and recording work with jazz greats. Tana continues to be active on the
international jazz scene touring extensively as well as performing locally in and around San
Francisco with his own groups and groups led by others.
Kai Kane Aoki Izu - KK as he is known to the NSF family, began his formal dance training
at the ODC School in San Francisco at the age of sixteen. He trained at both the California
State Summer School for the Arts and the Alonzo King LINES Ballet Summer Program in
2010 and 2011. He is a QuestBridge scholar and ScholarMatch recipient. KK is passionate
about dance and has appeared nationally and internationally on stages in Hong Kong,
Japan, Singapore and Australia.

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 9

Manuia Polynesian Revue

MANUIA POLYNESIAN REVUE, a professional performance & award winning competitive
dance company was founded in 1996 and is based in the San Francisco/Bay Area. Manuias
goal, lead by Director Tommy Tualaulelei, is to show the beauty and excitement of the
Polynesian Islands by performing the art of dance and music and most importantly respecting
tradition and culture of all the Polynesian Islands. Our 150+ members include all races and
genders. Ages range from 3 years to 75+ years. Our performances and activities include
dancing, drumming, music and crafts from the islands of Tahiti, Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, New
Zealand and Fiji.

Nathan Aweau
Nathan Aweau has spent his entire lifetime in music. Born into a musical family (both his
grandparents played various instruments,) Nathan includes the piano, ukulele, guitar, and
saxophone amongst the instruments he plays. Then theres his voice, the voice. Smooth,
contemporary, and mellifluous and definitely island-inspired. Two-time Grammy nominee and
three times he was awarded Male Vocalist of the Year at the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards the
Hawaii an equivalent of the Grammy Awards. He has received Hokus for Song of the Year
and Contemporary Hawaii an Album of the Year. Nathan has received 14 Hokus throughout
his career. In addition to his solo work, he has performed as a member of the band Hapa,
performed with Hawaii an legend Don Ho, as well as a whos who of Hawaii an musical
performers.

Pacific Soul Band

With a passion for music and creating high-caliber entertainment, Pacic Soul Band is ready
for any venue. Providing live musical entertainment for events across the San Francisco bay
area. This band is a party within itself.The Pacic Soul Band offers a unique blend of musicality
covering music from R&B, Oldschool, Funk, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Neo-Soul, Soft Rock, and Top
40 dance tunes from the past and present. Bringing a new meaning to the term Family
Band. Their smooth blend is due to singing together as a family over the years. Pacic Soul
family Band will make your event memorable and have your guests leaving with a smile on
their faces.

KalaBlind - Ramond Akahi Macapagal

A self-taught skilled musician, KalaBlind brings to you the sounds of home through ukelele.
I have been blind since birth, music has always been a big part of my life. Music influences
ranging from Hawaiian, to Island Reggae, to Polynesian is what KalaBlind brings to the stage.
KalaBlind is alwas open to make people smile thgouh music.

Rendezvous
Come get down and groove to the jammin sounds of Rendezvous! Bringing the party to San
Francisco Bay Area shows since 1995, Rendezvous has been igniting the dance floors, and
jumping the crowds out of their seats with their vibrant vocals and highly spirited, upbeat
performances. They are sure to get you shaking your hips and tapping your feet to your alltime favorites as you dance the day and night away!

Rockblood
ROCKBLOOD Band brings out the best in not usually heard blues and rock music. They are a
tight very passionate group of musicians dedicated to leave a footprint of rockin badness of
the blues!!!

10 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Salsa Caliente featuring Gary Flores

Gary Flores is the Bay Areas most renowned Latin Jazz musician today. A San Francisco native,
hes played trumpet and piano alongside some of the greatest Latin Jazz musicians from New
York to Puerto Rico. His musical creativity and individuality eventually ventured into another
successful aspect of his career, Caliente 2000, a band where he enjoyed the freedom of playing
with a multitude of Latin and Jazz icons.He is appearing this weekend with Salsa Caliente and
together have been known as one of the best salsa bands in the Bay Area.

San Francisco Taiko Dojo

The San Francisco Taiko Dojo is known throughout the world as one of the premiere
practitioners of the Japanese drumming. Grand Master Seiichi Tanaka has been performing
and teaching taiko in San Francisco since 1968. The essence of San Francisco Taiko Dojo is
that it is not strictly a performance organization, but rather a school. Focusing on the spiritual
and martial arts aspects of the art, the Dojo teaches not only the skillful playing of percussion
instruments, but also the discipline of mind and body in the spirit of complete respect and
unity among the drummers.

Shogo Yamada - Yamasho Kai

Originally from Osaka, Japan, Shogo Yamada has made the Bay Area his home for the past 47
years. An trained pianist, Shogo accompanied many American Standard and Jazz musicians
at various night clubs and cabarets in Osaka and Tokyo. In 1967 he came to San Francisco
where he joined Taiko Doki Kai (with Grand Master Seiichi Tanka), a precurser to SF Taiko
Dojo and performed with them for 10 years. Shogo also was part of Japantowns famed,
Shinsei Band. Shogo returns to Japan yearly partaking in the obon (honoring the spirits of
ancestors) festivities throughout Japan. Kawachi Ondo a Japanese folk song that origniated in
Osaka and is now performed throughout Japan during obon season. Accompanying Shogo
are: Rimiko Burman (taiko), Hideo Date (guitar), Kayoko Tachibana & Ryuko Date (ohayashi backup singers).

Steven Espaniola
Raised in Aliamanu, Hawaii and now residing in the California Bay Area, Steven is a multiinstrumentalist specializing in Ki Hoalu (Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar), Ukulele, Upright Bass,
and Leo Kie Kie (Traditional Hawaiian falsetto). Of Hawaiian, Filipino and Spanish decent, his
ethnicity is as diverse as his unique sound, which preserves the integrity of the traditional with
a flourish of the modern.

Tracy Cruz
Born in Quezon City on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, Tracy Cruzs alluring voice is
comprised of sounds old and new, resembling Jill Scotts throaty moans and Sarah Vaughans
lyrical accentuation, all while still managing to remain distinct. With a vocal range that
stretches from unbelievable lows to soprano highs, Tracy pulls from her thriving passion of
Filipino ballads.

West Coast Lion Dance

Located in Daly City, California, the West Coast Lion Dance Troupe was formed in 1988 by a
cadre of veteran lion dancers, of which, the troupes leader and founder was Tony Shiu, who
first started lion dancing in 1976. The main goal of the West Coast Lion Dance Troupe is to
pass on the traditional art of Chinese lion dancing, along with the culture and customs that
makes up lion dancing.

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 11

We look through the eyes of

many

Recognizing and promoting diversity means having an appreciation for difference. At

Wells Fargo, we welcome and value the insights and perspectives drawn from unique
life experiences. It is those distinctive viewpoints that provide us with the creativity
and fresh thinking we need to help all our customers reach their financial goals.
When individuals succeed, communities thrive

wellsfargo.com
2014 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
All rights reserved.
Member FDIC. 124910 07/14

TM

In the spirit of Aloha, the Nihonmachi Street Fair has been presenting the Aloha by the Bay
music series as part of our fundraising efforts. It is our hope that through these concerts, we can
build friendship and bring together the many talented musicians locally and abroad.
For more information visit our website: www.alohabythebay.org

A Doggie Dog World

For the past three years Nihonmachi Street Fair has become a dog friendly fair, highlighting
Bay Area pet rescue organization. From dogs to cats, from birds to bunnies.the fair gives
the community an opportunity to visit with bay area rescue organizations all in one location.
This year Doggie World will feature a parade with the goal of 100 dogs participating. The
parade will be kicked off with the 2014 Cherry Blossom Queen and her court escorting
dogs for adoption. Partial proceeds from the parade registration ($20 per dog) will go to the
San Francisco Animal Control Center and other local rescues. The fun parade will march
through Buchanan Mall and end in front of the Peace Plaza for a Yappy Hour finish.
Doggie World is sponsored by San Franciscos Arguello Pet Hospital. Dr. Mike Ina and Dr.
Jamie Ina along with their staff and other pet care professionals, provide free pet care advice
on Saturday and Sunday.
To register your dog for the Doggie World parade on Sunday, August 3rd at 1 pm come
to the Doggie Word Information booth.

14 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Animal Rescue Organization

Friends of San Francisco Animal Care and Control (FSFACC) is a nonprofit established in
2000 that raises funds for the San Francisco municipal animal shelter (SF/ACC) and its rescue
partners in order to enhance or establish programs and services that benefit animals and
serve and educate the public. SFACC is the citys open-admission animal shelter, providing
housing, care and medical treatment to wild, exotic and domestic stray, lost, abandoned
sick, injured and/or surrendered animals.
Tonis Kitty Rescue - is an active, dedicated community of volunteers who provide foster
care for sick, orphaned kittens that are too young to be considered adoptable. TKR works
hand in hand with San Francisco Animal Care and Control to create and deliver life giving
resources to homeless cats and kittens.
Northern California Family Dog Rescue, started in 2010, is dedicated to caring for our
family-friendly dogs and ultimately finding them a forever home. Their special mission to
select dogs that do well with kids and adults.

This years Doggie World Parade benefits

SF Animal Care & Control and other local
rescue shelters

Save A Bunny - believes that all companion rabbits are worthy of a safe, loving home
regardless of breed purity, pedigree, or temperament. The rescue group serves both the
people and animals in the community through adoption, advocacy, education, outreach,
and rescue options.
Wonder Dog Rescue is a dedicated volunteer group, serving the San Francisco Bay Area
and beyond, and rescuing dogs from all over Northern and Central California. Wonder Dog
Rescue has saved blind and deaf dogs, puppies as young as two weeks and seniors as old
as 15! We offer hospice to special needs and elderly dogs, caring for them until the end of
their lives.
MickaCoo Pigeon & Dove Rescue saves domestic (unreleasable) birds that would
otherwise be killed in San Francisco Bay Area animal shelters. They provide vet care, foster
homes, and adoptions. MickaCoo rescued 186 birds in 2012!
Any Dog Rescue of Vallejo helps any dog that needs assistance regardless of shape,
size, age, or color including all mix breeds. We assist Terriers, Chihuahuas, Labs, Shepherds,
Collies, Boxers, Pitbulls, Mastiffs etc. We get them out of shelters to save lives, find better
homes if they are being abused, and assist their current home with pet coaching to improve
their quality of life.
PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support) believes that the healing impact of the humananimal bond is one of the best supports available for medically vulnerable individuals, and
mounting evidence indicates that this bond can yield valuable health outcomes. Animal
companionship becomes even more important when our human contacts diminish because
of aging or illness.PAWS is able to provide needed companion animal services to hundreds
of low-income San Franciscans so they continue to benefit from the healing power and
unconditional love of their beloved pets.

AUGUST 2 & 3, 2014 | 15

AsianWeek Foundation
After 10 years of organizing some of the largest and most diverse events in the community, AsianWeek Foundation is transitioning its
projects and closed their Market Street office due to the retirement of their executive director Ted Fang.
The Nihonmachi Street Fair applauds one of our communities most influential and hard working organizations. Ted Fang along with Angela
Pang provided much assistance to our organization. We are forever grateful for their guidance and friendship throughout the years.
Their partners will continue the tradition of inspiring community through diversity. Below is one of the new projects of the AsianWeek
Foundation.

San Franciscos First Asian Community Garden Breaks Ground

AsianWeek Foundation, along with community leaders and elected
officials broke ground this past April on the citys first ever Asian
Community Garden located at the cul-de-sac at Williams Ave. and
Diana St. in the Bayview District.

42 percent of households immediately surrounding the site are

owned by Asian/Pacific Islanders. The site sits above an operational
CalTrain tunnel and was home to the Diana Street Farm, San
Franciscos last farm.

Thegreen space, approximately one acre in size, will help new

immigrants lead healthy lifestyles, grow and share fresh produce,
and showcase Asian plants and features to be enjoyed by people of
all backgrounds.There will also be space for exercise activities such
as Tai Chi. Landscaping will showcase an intersection of native and
traditional Asian plants.

Studies indicate that Asians overwhelmingly consider themselves

to be environmentalists. This project brings together and develops
the community by tapping into that huge potential. We hope their
working together around this garden will also improve the wellbeing and safety of the neighborhood, said Ted Fang, Director of
the AsianWeek Foundation which launched the Green Initiative for
Asian Families in 2012.

The garden will be called the Florence Fang Asian Community

Garden, named after long time community leader Florence Fang.
Other major supporters and sponsors include: The Aetna Foundation,
SF Department of the Environment, DoormanSF, Discount Builders,
Recology, USF School of Architecture and Community Design, and
Quesada Gardens Initiative.
This project is the first Asian-themed public and open space on
the Southeast side of the City, said Supervisor Malia Cohen, who
played an instrumental role in shaping this project. It reflects the
growing diversity we have in the Southeast and provides a place
for local residents to invest in healthy lifestyles and sustainable
practices, including growing fresh produce. Supervisor Cohen
represents District 10, which includes Bayview; she also sits on the
CalTrain Board of Directors.
The Bayview/Hunters Point is one of San Franciscos fastest
demographically changing neighborhoods, with Asian/Pacific
Islanders now the largest population group. Organizers found that

16 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

San Franciscos Bayview has been called a food swamp where

food is available but not necessarily healthy, affordable or culturally
appropriate. Asian immigrants are particularly challenged with new
studies showing they have twice the risk of diabetes and some of the
fastest-growing rates of obesity among all ethnic groups.
Organizers have been conducting on-going community and
neighborhood meetings as well as door-to-door outreach since last
year to solicit community input and involvement to help determine
the final look and feel of the garden space. Different areas of the
community garden will be rolled out in phases.
Volunteer days are currently held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of
each month, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with activities including general
cleanup of garden grounds,removal of non-native invasive plant
species,litter pickup,watering, andmulching. Volunteers can sign
up online atwww.tinyurl.com/AWFvolunteer.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Nihonmachi Street Fair gratefully appreciates the following for their support this year.

San Francisco Mayor

Ed Lee
State Senator Mark Leno
San Francisco Supervisor
London Breed
San Francisco Supervisor
David Chiu
San Francisco Supervisor
Eric Mar
San Francisco City
Assessor-Recorder
Carmen Chu

ISCOTT Members
- SFMTA Engineering:
Harvey Quan, Cindy
Shamban, Meryl
Klein, Manito Velasco,
Curtis Smith, SFPD:
Bernie Corry, Sgt.
Mark Moreno, Officer
Lynn Palmatto,
SFFD: Kathy Harold,
Manuel Pegueros,
Entertainment
Commission Cammy
Blackstone

Kinokuniya Bookstores
of America - Richard
Matsuno
MIF Insurance
Nihonmachi
Parking Corporation
- Jim Yonemoto
Nippon Ya
Paper Tree
SF Balloon Magic
San Francisco Palace of
Fine Arts Theatre

Japanese Cultural &

Community Center
of Northern CA
Japantown Merchants
Association
- Richard Hashimoto

No. CA Cherry Blossom

Festival

One Brick

No. CA Hawaiian
Chamber of Commerce

Community Access Plus

San Francisco
Sheriffs Department

SumoFish - Brandt Fuse

San Francisco
Dept. of Public Works

San Francisco Recreation

& Park Department
- Chris Kocher

2013 No. CA Cherry

Blossom Queen
& Court

San Francisco
Japantown Foundation

Grants for the Arts

2014 No. CA Cherry

Blossom Queen
& Court

Ted Fang

San Francisco Asian

Peace Officers
Association
San Francisco Dept. of
Public HealthAlicia Saam

Pistahan Parade &

Festival
SF Animal Care & Control

Daryl Higashi
Ron, Kenny & Sumi
Kanzaki

Aloha Warehouse

AsianWeek Foundation/
Asian Heritage Street
Celebration

DBI Beverages

Japan Center Garage

Sandy Mori

Houghston Engineering

Japanese Community
Youth Council

Jeff Mori

A&R Rental

Tamiko Wong

Nihonmachi Little Friends

San Francisco Municipal

Transportation Agency

Abbey Rents

Angela Pang
Dean Ito Taylor

San Francisco
Asian Firefighters

San Francisco
Police Department
- Northern Station

Marilyn Oshiro
Al Perez

Sound Innovations

San Francisco
Police Department

Wes Nihei

NNational Japanese
American Historical
Society

San Francisco
Fire Department

Sundance Cinemas

Beverly Ng

Kimochi, Inc.

San Francisco
Entertainment
Commissioner
Steven Lee

SOMArts

Scott Nakamura

Paul Miyamoto

Steve Nakajo

Heart in Motion
buildOn
(Balboa High School)
Westmoor FBLA
(Westmoor High
School)

Rememberances...
Last year right before and after the 40th Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair we lost three wonderful individuals who supported
us and our communities in different ways. Their smiles and warm hearts will forever be in our hearts, and this years 41st
Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair is dedicated in their memory.

Hedy Hideko Oka Matsuno

Hedy and her husband Shug have been fixtures of the Nihonmachi Street Fair for many
many years. Together along with the Japanese Community Youth Council (JCYC) Ceramics
members they always secured a corner at the Fair to showcase and sell their fabulous ceramic
pieces. Hedy always made sure that everything was set and ready to go each morning of the
Fair. Her quick wit kept Shug in place and her kind spirit touched many in the community.
Note: Heddy hated to take photos. We were lucky to find one of her back.

Auntie Mele Melanie Eleneke

Auntie Mele as she was known to many of us, left us far too soon. Melanie was part of the
Halau Ke Olu Makani O Mauna Loa and performed at many community events. She was
not only a hula dancer, but a transgender rights activist who fought for those who had no
voice. She graced the Nihonmachi Street Fair stage many times along with her hula sisters.

Yuri Kochiyama
Japanese-American activist and lifelong champion of civil rights causes in the African
American, Latino, Native American and Asian American communities, Yuri Kochiyama
inspired generations of activists, especially within the Asian American communities. She
reminded all of us that we have a deep history of social justice that needs to continued and
upheld. Lets all keep her memory alive by opening our own eyes to social movements.

18 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Yuri Kochiyama
photo courtesy of
Mike Wintroath/AP

41st Annual

Proud Sponsor of the

41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair
www.sapporobeer.com

Congratulations Nihonmachi Street Fair

for 41 years of Embracing Our Communities!

Help Support the Community

by Being a Sponsor
Being a corporate / business sponsor at the Nihonmachi
Street Fair is a wonderful way to show your support to
the Asian/Pacific communities here in San Francisco. The
Nihonmachi Street Fair offers a unique opportunity to reach
the Asian/Pacific market face to face. Having a presence at
next years event will position your company as a committed
supporter to the Asian/Pacific community and provide
visibility and exposure to a targeted audience.
Depending on the sponsorship level, your business will have
an opportunity to be included in our press releases, website,
marketing materials, public service announcements and
visible banners at the event.
Nihonmachi Street Fair is a 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization.
Tax ID: 94-3088515
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor at next years
42nd Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair or would like to
request a sponsorship packet, please contact: Grace Horikiri
sponsorship@nihonmachistreetfair.org, (415) 771-9861.

Proud Sponsors of the Nihonmachi Street Fairs Doggie World

530 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, California 94118 415-751-3242

Whats important to you is important to us.

Union Bank understands the importance of community. We are deeply grateful for the personal and
professional ties we have developed throughout the years. And with our proven history of solid financial
performance, we will continue to put our strength to work for you. Together with you, we look forward
to building a successful future for generations to come.

Union Bank is proud to support the Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair.

As part of Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, one of Japans most respected banking groups, we have specialized bankers
with international business and wealth management expertise ready to help you plan your future.
Arques Avenue
408-245-8402

Japan Center-San Francisco

415-202-0350

San Francisco Main

415-765-3434

San Jose Main

408-279-7400

San Mateo Main

650-342-9411

Stockton
209-466-2315

Sunnyvale
408-739-4900

West Fresno
559-233-0591

unionbank.com

2013 Union Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

Congratulations to the
Nihonmachi Street Fair!
For forty one years of bringing
our communities together

41
From the Optometric Offices of

James Wong, O.D.

Jamie Totsubo, O.D.
Richard Hom, O.D.
Marilyn Ng, O.D.
1826 Buchanan Street, Suite A | San Francisco, CA 94115
Telephone: 415-931-1901

Thank you to all the individuals, businesses and community

organizations that have advertised in this years booklet!

Proud Sponsor of the

41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair
48th Annual
Northern California

www.benkyodocompany.com

Grant T. Tomioka, Esq.

Attorney at Law

4444 Geary Blvd., #301

San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel: (415) 670-9929
Fax: (415) 933-6187
Email: grantt@earthlink.net

The Nihonmachi Street Fair Ohana

Board of Directors

Nihonmachi Street Fair Planning Committee

Richard Jue, Chair

Grace Horikiri, Executive Director

Michael Son, Vice Chair

Tobin Tsuji, Treasurer

Pat Fong, Chief Financial Officer

Asian Artisan

Kiyomi Tanaka, Nani Flazer

Basketball Tournament

Jill Hom, Shingo Tanaka

Booklet & Advertisement Design

Grace Horikiri

Booklet Ads

Erika Tamura, John Nagano

Childrens World

Sarah Kimiko Fedaie and

2014 Northern CA Cherry Blossom Queen & Court

Clear Channel Outdoor Stage

Will Chu, George Da Plumber Flazer, Shawn Auvaa

Corporate Info Booths

Grace Horikiri

Special Thanks:

Corporate Sponsorship

Grace Horikiri, Pat Fong, Richard Jue, Tobin Tsuji

The Nihonmachi Street Fair greatly

appreciates all the volunteers, individuals,
businesses and community organizations
whose support enable us to continue
this valuable event for our communities.

Doggie World

Gail Mametsuka, Shirley Wing,

Julie Matsueda, Lisa Stanziano

Food Fest

Pat Fong

Logistics

Shingo Tanaka, Clif Nakai

Nonprofit Info Tables

Aya Ino

Photography

Will Lee

Public Relations

Grace Horikiri, Gail Mametsuka, Pat Fong

Security

Ryan Quan, Wayne Yoshida, Cheri Quan

Sounds of Thunder Car Show

Terry Chew

Webster Street Stage

Joey Convento, Reuben Houston, Nicholas Footracer

Volunteer Coordinator

Jaclyn Funasaki

Tshirt Design

Brandt Fuse, SumoFish

Gail Mametsuka, Secretary

Terry Chew
Madeline Mutt Kitagawa
Erika Tamura

The NSF is
funded in part
by the Grants
for the Arts.

This event is supported by the SOMArts Cultural

Centers Technical Services Program, which
provides affordable, technical assistance to
non-profits and community events throughout
San Francisco. The mission of SOMArts (South
of Market Arts, Resources, Technology and
Services) is to promote and nurture art on the
community level and foster an appreciation of
and respectfor all cultures. SOMArts receives
funding from the San Francisco Arts Commission.

2014 Nihonmachi Street Fair All rights reserved.

No part of this booklet may be reproduced without
written consent from the Nihonmachi Street Fair, Inc.

30 | 41ST ANNUAL NIHONMACHI STREET FAIR

Additional Support Provided By Kenny Matsuda, Jennifer Hamamoto, John Oshima,

Julie & Scott Yamamoto, JCYC Tomodachi Youth, Heart in Motion Students, One Brick,
Community Access Plus, Build On (Balboa High School), Westmoor FBLA, Dave Golden,
David Toshiyuki, Denise Naganuma, Mark Shigenaga, Grace Fujimoto, Kahn Yamada, Drew
Mametsuka, Tai Iwamasa, Megumi Tsurukawa.

PG&E is proud to partner with the Nihonmachi Street Fair. Thank you for all of the great work
that you do on behalf of the community. At PG&E we believe its just as important to bring
energy to a community through our partnerships as it is through our power lines.

Proud Sponsor of the

41st Annual Nihonmachi Street Fair