Niigata Prefecture honors Hawaii Island kenjinkai members

In conjunction with Respect for the Aged Day in Japan (third Monday in September), the International Affairs Division of Niigata Prefecture recognized three kupuna members of the Hawaii Island Niigata Kenjinkai.

Named as initial recipients of this honor were George Ito, Robert Ono and Helen Takahashi. They were selected for their significant contributions to the Hawaii Japanese community and fostering a continued strong bond between Niigata Prefecture and the United States.

Each honoree was presented with a certificate from the Niigata Prefectural government and recognized at a recent Shinnen Enkai get-together at Taishoji Soto Mission.

Ito has served as president of Hawaii Shima Niigata Kenjinkai for more than 10 years. Through his leadership and outreach to the local Japanese community, its organizations and the Honolulu chapter of the Niigata Kenjinkai, the Hawaii Island chapter continues to add new, younger members with family ties to Niigata Prefecture or who are interested in the traditions and foods of the prefecture.

Ono, a dual member of the Hilo and Honolulu chapters, has served as president of the Honolulu Niigata Kenjinkai. As the primary liaison, Ono has promoted close ties between the chapters.

Takahashi, a charter member of the Hilo chapter which began in 1979, has served in various capacities on its board of directors throughout its 38-year history.

On each occasion the Hilo chapter has participated in the Hawaii Japanese Community Association’s Children’s Day Festival, Takahashi generously donated her time in chairing the chi chi dango (a food specialty of Niigata) food booth and donating her family usu, which is used in mochi pounding and featured in the Niigata exhibit at Hawai‘i Japanese Center.