1. religion and spirituality
2. buddhism

Volume 48
Issue 6
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Website: www.fresnobuddhisttemple.org
JUNE
2013
“TAKE REFUGE IN THE TRUE AND REAL LIGHT”
Rev. Kakei Nakagawa,
RINBAN
“The Letters” of
Rennyo Sh‫פ‬nin (1415~1499) was a
descendant of Shinran Shōnin and
the eighth Monshu (head priest) of
the Hongwanji Temple in Kyoto.
He has been recognized as the most
important dharma-teacher after
Shinran and we adored him as the
Restorer or the Second Founder
of Jōdo Shinshū School because
the enormous expansion of the
organization during his lifetime.
Jōdo Shinshu become a major
religion of Japan in his time.
At the highest of his propagation
activities, Rennyo edited and published the Shōshin-Nenbutsu-Ge (gatha)
and Jōdo Wasan (hymn) followed by the practice of the Nenbutsu as the
standard service book for everyday use by all people. With the addition
of reading his ‘Letters (O-Fumi or Go-Bunshō)’, this form of service has
been and continues to be held daily at every member’s home and temple.
There is an interesting fact that a large number of the ‘Myōkōnin’, the
people whose dharma experience reached to the awakened state even
though they are less literate, have appeared in succession after Rennyo to
the present in particular areas where people have been followed Rennyo’s
instructions of everyday service. Even among the widespread Shinshu
areas of Japan, only the people who lived in such areas had succeeded to
establish their own tradition of the Nenbutsu life.
Renjun clarified the inseparable relationship between “The Letters”
and the spreading of Shinran Shōnin’s teachings among ordinary
people in Japan.
At the Jōdo Shinshū dharma gatherings, “The Letters”, which
succinctly presented the crucial points of the Buddhism, were
read and explained by the leaders of the Sangha. This was for the
benefit of the common people, many of whom were uneducated.
Later, reading “The Letters” became an important part of the
Dharma gatherings, services and ceremonies in temples and homes.
Otherwise they had no chance to receive even a primary education,
Jōdo Shinshū followers memorized “The Letters” (mostly twentytwo letters on the Book V), for correcting their understandings.
The repeating memory of “The Letters” was sometimes counted for
the social initiation to the responsible position of their community.
I hesitate to say that “The Letters” have never been introduced well
to the American Buddhists because of the cultural and language
barriers between two different worlds. Here I have shared one of
the well interpreted “Letters” from the “Collected Letters vol. V”
which letters are exactly ‘selected a hundred essential points out
of a thousand, ten out of a hundred, and one out of ten’.
Moreover, we should be reminded of the fact that most of our ancestors, the
so called Shinshū Immigrants in USA had come from such areas in Japan.
Particularly, “The Letters” were effective as a guide for correct
understanding of the Shinshu teachings. Renjun, the sixth son of Rennyo
reported Rennyo’s careful attitude to writing “The Letters”:
“In order to make ignorant beings like us understand easily and quickly,
he selected a hundred essential points out of a thousand, ten out of a
hundred, and one out of ten, and thus wrote “The Letters”, clarifying a
quick way of fulfilling the Dharma path for ordinary people. It is due
solely to Rennyo’s fervent wish that the teaching of the Founder Shinran
Shōnin has spread all over the country.” [Renjun-Ki (record)]
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
ON THE WHITE ASHES [V-16]
please see page 2 for translation...
Page 2
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
“The Letters” of Rennyo by Reverend Nakagawa, continued
from page 1
ON THE WHITE ASHES [V-16]
trnsl. by Dr. Taitstsu Unno,
edited by Rev. K.Nakagawa
In silently contemplating the transient nature of human existence,
nothing is more fragile and fleeting in this world than the life of
man. Thus, we have not heard of human life lasting for ten thousand
years. Life swiftly passes and who among men can maintain his form
for even a hundred years? Whether I go before others, or whether
others go before me, whether it be today, or whether it be tomorrow,
who is to know? Those who leave before us are as countless as the
drops of dew.
Though in the morning we may have radiant health, in the evening
we may be WHITE ASHES. When the winds of impermanence
blow, our eyes are closed forever; and when the last breath leaves
us, our face loses its color. Though loved ones gather and lament,
everything is of no avail. The body is then sent into an open field
and vanishes from this world with the smoke of cremation, leaving
only the white ashes.
There is nothing more real than this truth of life. The fragile nature
of human existence underlies the young and the old, and therefore
we must — one and all — turn to the teachings of the Buddha and
awaken to the ultimate source of life.
By so understanding the meaning of death, we shall come to
fully appreciate the meaning of this life which is unrepeatable and
thus to be treasured above all else. By virtue of true compassion, let
us realize the unexcelled value of human existence and its effects on
the future, and let us live with the Nenbutsu in our hearts.
The Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple extends its deepest
condolences to the Ishimoto, Tange, Takemoto and
Okuyama families, on the passing of their loved one.
May you always find comfort in the Nembutsu.
Namo Amida Butsu.
Fresno Buddhist Temple observes the first Rennyo Shōnin Memorial
Service on June 9th.
Guest speaker is Reverend Katsuya Kusunoki of the Lodi Buddhist
Church whose former carrier was a baseball coach for the national
team of Zimbabwe, Africa. Well, we will learn more about Rennyo
Shōnin through Rev. Kusunoki’s global point of view of Buddhism.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Haruko Ishimoto
January 16, 1925 ~ April 18, 2013
Teresa Toyoko Tange
June 26, 1958 ~ April 26, 2013
Kazuma Takemoto
April 30, 1926 ~ April 29, 2013
Kinzo Okuyama
February 7, 1915 ~ May 4, 2013
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Jim Kubo, Board Chairman
The school year (regular and Dharma)
is coming to an end and the thought
of summer vacation fills our heads.
Here are few news and notes to tide
you over.
First, as many of you may have heard,
we have interviewed and approved
the assignment of a candidate for the
vacant ministerial post. All I can say
at this time is that we are trying to
finalize an agreement that will satisfy
his needs and our needs as well. The Ministerial Affairs Committee is
currently discussing the matter via the Bishop. He acts as a go between
to help us come to an agreement. We hope there will be a resolution
soon and we can give more information in regards to his background and
when he will begin at the Betsuin. We are grateful to Rinban for all the
time and effort he has put in the last 6 months doing the work of two
ministers. Regardless of when the new minister begins, Rinban is very
interested in expanding the Ministers Assistants program in the Central
Valley. Currently, Rinban is covering not only Fresno but Visalia, Hanford
and Fowler. His ultimate goal is to have a Sunday morning service at
all the Temples every week. This can be accomplished by using the
services of the Ministers Assistants. We have been fortunate to have
Matthew Miyake and Garrett Sano help us at many of our services as
Youth Ministers Assistants. They have been a wonderful resource for
Rinban and the Sangha. So if any of our members are interested in
becoming a Ministers Assistant, please contact Rinban.
On behalf of the Sangha, I wanted to thank Grant Miyamoto for giving
of his time and equipment to help spray the weeds around the FDC.
He does this every year with no expectation of recognition. But we are
wanted to thank him for doing this to help keep the grounds of our FDC
looking neat and clean.
The return of the swallows, it sounds like a summer blockbuster movie
but it is what happened a few weeks ago at the FDC. The swallows
were beginning to build their nests like they had tried in previous years.
Fortunately, we got a heads up that the nests needed to be taken
down before there completion. Who ya gonna call “Ghostbusters”?
(Ask your parents kids or look it up on Netflix) No our very own team
of “Nestbusters”! Thank you to Craig Yoshikawa, Wayne Yamagiwa,
Sid Mukai and Ken Kanemoto for taking care of the nesting problem
at the FDC.
I am happy to report that our website is currently being upgraded and
redone. We had started a redesign awhile back but through various
circumstances the project was never completed. We have someone
Page 3
who has agreed to pursue this sometimes overwhelming project.
Who is this computer whiz? Why Midori Nakagawa of course. She
is our “Swiss Army Knife” doing whatever the Betsuin needs. Thank
you so much for tackling this project. Mrs. Nakagawa needs a lot of
information from all the various clubs and organizations, she would
like to create a website that would allow each organization to edit
their own webpage adding new events or activities. She will also
create links to your organizations existing website. The website
will only be as good as the information we put in. Our goal should
be to make information about the Betsuin readily available to our
members or others who would like to know more about our Temple
or Buddhism in general. Please go to fresnobuddhisttemple.org
to see the new website and please give Mrs. Nakagawa as much
information about your club or organization as you can, it will really
enhance the website.
Summer also means Obon! Obon will be on Saturday, July 13th.
The committee headed by Lee and Cliff Osaki has already been
hard at work in preparation of one of our biggest fundraisers of
the year. It is always so much fun having great food, catching up
with friends and getting out there and dancing as well. I know it
is a lot of fun but all that fun doesn’t happen by magic. It takes so
many of our members to make it happen. Many of you are working
multiple shifts for various organizations and it is greatly appreciated.
I want to urge ALL members to participate in this year’s Obon and
I don’t mean just eating an extra beef stick. I mean volunteering
to cover a shift. If we can get everyone involved we won’t have to
have members working multiple shifts. This means more people
can enjoy Obon and not just be exhausted by it. So when that riji
calls, answer the phone, don’t let the machine get it! Better yet
call your riji and let them know when you can help and what you
would like to help with. The Obon is one day but it takes many days
of preparation leading up to Saturday. So if you have a conflict on
that Saturday, see what you can do earlier in the week to help out.
It is a lot of work getting everything ready for Obon but believe
me it has been my experience that is the best way to get to meet
more people in the Sangha and spend some time with your friends.
Finally, I would like to congratulate all of our graduates of the Class
of 2013. It has been amazing watching you all grow up before our
very eyes and becoming young adults who are giving of their time
and effort to helping others. You make us proud and hopeful for
the future of our Betsuin!
In Gassho,
Jim Kubo
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 4
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
FRESNO BETSUIN BUDDHIST TEMPLE BOARD MEETING - HIGHLIGHTS
Wednesday, May 1, 2013 at the Family Dharma Center
Fresno Betsuin Board Chairman, Jim Kubo, called the board meeting to order at 7:02pm. Rinban Kakei Nakagawa led opening gassho.
The roll call list is attached to the original minutes, a quorum was present.
MINUTES Minutes of the April 3, 2013 board meeting were reviewed. Correction to April minutes for Building and Maintenance report:
Quote of approximately $20,000 to move the bell tower is the moving company cost only. Motion was made to approve the amended April
Minutes as submitted. M/S/C.
FINANCIAL REPORT Reported by Frank Hashimoto: April financial report reviewed. M/S/C to approve report as submitted
MINISTERIAL REPORT Reported by Rinban Kakei Nakagawa: Temple Visitation 3; Home,Hospital,etc.Visitation 2; Counseling 1;
Meeting 9 (3 absent); Howa-Kai 3; Dharma Service (not regular service) 2; Hoji (Yearly Memorial Service) 8 (6-Rinban,1-Rev.JoRen,1Mrs.Nakagawa); Wake Service-Makurakyo(for person) 1; Wake Service-Makurakyo(for family) 1; Funeral 4 (3-Rinban,1-Rev.JoRen);
Internment 1 (1 combined with Hoji); Hanamatsuri was held at 9:30am on 4/14/13 at FDC; Guest speaker was Rev. Kaz Nakata from LA
Betsuin. Attended FDSTL Conference in San Mateo on 4/26-4/27/13; theme was “Diversity”.
DOWNTOWN PROPERTY Reported by Cliff Osaki
Universal Church interested in leasing the Annex for daily use; details not worked out yet.
MAY BLOOD DRIVE - Reported by Hunter Arakawa
Blood mobile will be at FDC on 5/19/13 from 8am-Noon, during Gotan-E service.
FRESNO BETSUIN GOLF TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER - Reported by Hunter Arakawa: Golf tournament to be held on 5/5/13 at
Eagle Springs. Thank you in advance to Ruth Yoneda, Fresno Jr. YBA, and YBA members for your help. 25 group registered; 101 players.
Kitchen Club will serve the dinner, steak & shrimp scampi. Good response from sponsors and donations. Proceeds from this fundraiser
will go towards a water heater to help the FDC dishwasher.
HANAMATSURI SERVICE Reported by Ruth Yoneda: Hanamatsuri service was held on 4/14/13. Positive comments received on salad
bar lunch. Everything went well, but open for any suggestions. Kiku Floral donated 8 potted plants.
BOWLES GRANITE MARKER OF FOUNDING FATHERS - Reported by Hunter Arakawa: Details of moving granite marker delayed
due to sale of church being delayed.
KEIRO DAY Reported by Steve Mukai: Keiro Day was held on 4/7/13. Thank you to Alvin and Hatsuko Hanashiro for donating many
ingredients; Ken Kawano for securing raffle donors; sponsors for their generous donations; Glenn and Sherian Hamamoto for shave ice
dessert; Kitchen Club for preparing lunch; Fresno Jr. YBA for serving lunch; and Madison Mukai for Japanese dance entertainment.
BETSUIN WEBSITE Reported by Mrs. Midori Nakagawa: Needs information to put on website from organizations. Email information
to minijade@hotmail.com. She has been researching different search engines that are compatible for users.
DOWNTOWN TEMPLE CLEANUP Reported by Jim Kubo: Thank you to Sid Mukai for organizing the downtown temple clean up.
Over 40 people came to help. Cleared out many old items from the church and visible improvement made to church grounds.
TRESPASSING ON TO FDC PROPERTY Reported by Paula Kanagawa: Paula spoke to Michael Macias (facilities director at Unitarian
Church) and he ok’d a barrier to put on approx. 6 ft area between churches to discourage cars from driving through; Sid to investigate
options of materials for barrier.
MINISTERIAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORT Reported by Cliff Osaki: The committee has one ministerial candidate they are ready
to recommend for the Betsuin second minister position. There is mutual interest. Cliff motioned to accept the ministerial candidate for
assignment to Fresno Betsuin and to start contract negotiations. (Motion passed)
OBON Reported by Cliff Osaki
Donations have been received from various businesses. “Taiko Project” is scheduled to be guest performers. Obon meeting to be held this
next Wednesday.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Page 5
May 1, 2013 Board Meeting HIGHLIGHTS, continued...
IMADA FAMILY DONATON Reported by Cliff Osaki: Donation received from Kinji Imada trust. A portion will be used to upgrade
computers and office equipment. Remaining funds will be used at the discretion of the Board.
MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETARY CLEAN-UP Reported by Jim Kubo
Request for 1-2 representatives from each district on 5/25/13 from 8:00am at Mountain View cemetery for clean-up; bring rakes and
brooms. The annual interfaith Memorial Day service will be held on 5/27//13 at 10:00am.
SWALLOWS RETURN TO FDC- Reported by Jim Kubo
Keep an eye out at the FDC for their return, as it will need to be addressed as soon as we see them.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
DHARMA SCHOOL - Reported by Dennis Yee/Rick Ideta
Regular DFS will be held on 5/5, 5/12, and 6/2 (last one for this school year). New dharma school superintendents are Wayne and Gail
Yamagiwa/Mark and Tammy Kawakami.
BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE - Reported by Sid Mukai
Bell tower move is very possible, but city regulations need to be considered and need clearance from them; need to decide on where to
place it at FDC site.
FUTURE OF BUDDHISM - Reported by Gordon Misaki
A generous donation of a house and future financial considerations from that estate were received from Merika Motoyoshi family. A
campaign packet was sent out to all Betsuin members; follow up calls to all members will be made by past Betsuin presidents.
VISION AND PRESERVATION COMMITTEE - Reported by Leslie Ohashi
Asian Fest booth at Fresno City College on 4/27/13; Friday Night Seminars to be held at Fowler library 7-9pm on May 3 (Rev. Harada),
May 10 (750 yr old man/Rev. Kubose), May 17 (Jon Turner from OCBC), and May 24 (George Teraoka/Rev. McDonald). CC Baby
Boomers Seminar on 10/5/13 from 9:00am-2:00pm at Fowler BC. Keynote speaker will be Peter Hata from West Covina BC. Theme will
be based on music. Talent show/dinner fundraiser on 10/19/13 at FDC. Next V&P meeting is 5/29/13 at Parlier BC at 7pm.
FRESNO BETSUIN BUDDHIST WOMENS ASSOCIATION - Reported by Michi Hotta
Memorial Day bouquet making to be held on 5/26/13 at 1:00pm at the downtown Annex; all flowers should be at Annex by 12 Noon on
5/26/13; need manpower; On 5/27/13 at 7:00am they could use help distributing the flowers at the Mountain View cemetery.
MULTI-CHANCE DRAWING - Reported by Hunter Arakawa
May drawing winners: Yuri Omori, Chizuko Tsukida, and Sho Kamimoto
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Thank you to the following board members for the delicious food at our board meeting: Ken Kawano, Sherian Hamamoto, Jim Kubo, Ruth
Yoneda, and Sherri Miyake.
Next scheduled Board Meeting: Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at 7pm at FDC.
ADJOURNMENT/GASSHO:
Motion was made to adjourn the meeting at 8:45pm. M/S/C (Ruth Yoneda/Wayne Yamagiwa). Rinban Nakagawa led closing gassho.
Respectfully Submitted in gassho, Sherri Miyake, Board Secretary
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Page 6
JUNE 2013
BETSUIN SCHEDULE FOR JUNE 2013
Many thanks to April toban,
Ruth Yoneda and her helpers
for preparing the May issue for
mailing.
CENTRAL CALIFORNIA BUDDHIST RADIO BROADCAST
KBIF (900 AM DIAL) - 7:25AM
English
1
Mrs. Toshiye Mori
8
Dr. Gordon Misaki
15
Dr. Gary Mukai
22
Judge Mikio Uchiyama
29
Dr. Michael Maruyama
Japanese
Rev. K. Nakagawa
Rev. H. Sakamoto
Rev. H. Sakamoto
Mr. Yuki Mori
Mr. Yuki Mori
DONATION FOR EACH BROADCAST IS $50.00
Please make checks payable to:
“C.C. BUDDHIST MINISTERS’ ASSOCIATION”
and mail to Rev. Sakamoto
c/o Reedley Buddhist Church - PO Box 24, Reedley CA 93654
DHARMA SCHEDULE
2
Sun.
10am Dharma Family Service, FDC (N)
3
Mon.
7pm CBE (Rev. Harada), Parlier BC
9
Sun.
Rennyo Shonin Memorial and June Shotsuki Hoyo Service
9:30a Japanese, 10a English
Speaker: Rev. Katsuya Kusunoki, Lodi
Buddhist Church
Dean Sano, Alene Hayashi, Rod Hata, Shirley Jowe, Stan
& Sherri Miyake, Daryle & Shari Sakamoto, and Irvin
Ozawa from Mt. View
Your dana is very much appreciated!
GEPPO STAFF
Religious/Japanese: Editors:
Printing Supervisor:
Office Staff:
Rev. Kakei Nakagawa, Rinban
Gene Nakai, Lee Osaki
Kevin Orchanian
Lee Osaki, Kimi Hirata
The newsletter “Geppo Newsletter” is a monthly periodical
published by the Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple, 1340
Kern Street, Fresno, CA 93706-3390.
Phone (559) 442-4054 FAX (559) 442-1978.
A Non-Profit Organization. Tax ID #94-1196246
Please follow these guidelines for submitting
Geppo articles & flyers:
HOWAKAI SCHEDULE
7
21
Fri.
Thur.
6pm
2pm
Vintage Gardens (N)
Bowles (N)
There will be NO district services in July and August
1.
2.
3. 4.
5.
6.
7. 8.
PLEASE... Articles MUST be received by noon
on the 20th of each month unless otherwise noted. Due to time restraints, articles received after the deadline will NOT be printed until the fol
lowing issue.
Do not submit anything directly to Printer. Must be submitted to Betsuin Office on disk, by e-
mail, or typewritten. No handwritten articles will be accepted. All articles must be signed.
Use Microsoft Word (.doc) or Vista (.docx)
format.
ALL articles should be kept to a maximum of half page.
Photos are welcome, but please keep the number of photos to a minimum. E-mail JPEG. FLYERS - Due to limited space, ALL flyers must be kept to a maximum of half a page. Any
organization submitting a full-page flyer may be subject to a fee. Submit via e-mail.
We do not make corrections on articles; how-
ever, we may occasionally shorten the article or change font/size to fit page, if necessary.
E-mail to: geppo@fresnobuddhisttemple.org. A reply will be sent to acknowledge receipt.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Page 7
Buddhist Education Program
Lectures, Classes, Discussions, Meditation and Dharma Talks
Summer 2013 Schedule
Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) Center for Buddhist Education (CBE),
in conjunction with the Central California District Council
Lectures
CBE Monthly Monday Evening Lectures - 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. – Suggested Donation $5
Summer Lecture Series: Reflecting on the Three Treasures
Rev. Marvin Harada, Co-director, CBE
June 3 – “Buddha” – Buddhist Church of Parlier
360 Newmark Ave., Parlier, CA 93648, Tel. (559) 618-1528
July 1 – “Dharma” – Reedley Buddhist Church
2035 15th St., Reedley, CA 93654 Tel. (559) 638-2146
August 5 – “Sangha” – Fresno Betsuin Dharma Center
2690 E. Alluvial Ave., Fresno, CA 93720 Tel. (559) 442-4054
Buddhism Study Class
Buddhist Discussions in English
Third Thursday of the month
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Second Wednesday of the month
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Rev. Hidehito Sakamoto
Led by Curtis Koga
Reedley Buddhist Church
Buddhist Church of Parlier
2035 15th St., Reedley, CA 93654
Tel. (559) 638-2146
360 Newmark Ave., Parlier, CA 93648
Tel. (559) 618-1528
Dharma Talks in Japanese
(日本語での法話)
Dharma Class in Japanese
(佛教、真宗、写経)
Third Sunday of the month, 1:00 pm
Every Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. - 12 noon
Reedley Buddhist Church
Buddhist Church of Fowler
by Rev. Hidehito Sakamoto
2035 15th St., Reedley, CA 93654
Tel. 559-638-2146
by Rev. Sensho Inouye (559) 834-3175
210 S. 9th St., Fowler, CA 93625
Tel. 559-834-2077
Buddhist Radio Broadcast
Saturday mornings, 7:25 a.m. on KBIF (AM 900)
Short Dharma talks in Japanese and English
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 8
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
ADVERTISEMENTS
To offset the costs of printing the “Geppo”, please consider advertising your business or group. If you are interested, please contact
Lee Osaki at the Betsuin office.
For Betsuin members: Business Card: $20/month or 3 months for $45 (advance pay)
1/5 Page: $25/month or 3 months for $60 (advance pay)
For non-members:
Business Card: $25/month (no 3-month rate) 1/5 page: $30/month (no 3-month rate)
Imagine your business
card here...
Interested? Call the Betsuin
office for details... 442-4054
Mum’s Home Sweet Home, Inc.
A Residential Care Facility for the Elderly
We pride ourselves in caring for
Expect safe and loving care
our residents as we do our own families.
in a clean, home-like environment.
Convenient Fresno locations: Herndon Ave. & Chestnut Ave.
6723 & 6711 N. Sierra Vista Ave, Fresno, California 93710 phone: 559.392.4969 | fax: 559.298.8504
mumshomesweethome@comcast.net | www.mumshomesweethome.net
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
SHNRAN SHONIN’S SERVICE
So that we may commemorate Shinran’s passing at the
same time as his followers gather at the Hongwanji Temple
in Kyoto Japan, please join Rev. Nakagawa and others on
THURSDAY, JUNE 14TH
12:00PM
FAMILY DHARMA CENTER SMALL CHAPEL
ROOM #101
Mid-year is fast approaching, so we
would like to remind you to pay your
temple dues, if you have not already
done so. And if you already have, thank
you very much! As you know, the temple
depends on your support to help fund its
many programs and services. And if you
earn miles, rewards & cash back from your credit card company, CHARGE it! Just call the office ... (559) 442-4054
CCYBA Volleyball
Calling all YBAers... come on
out and play volleyball with the
members of the CC YBA.
Junior YBAer’s welcome!!
Page 9
Save the date:
FRESNO BETSUIN OBON/CARNIVAL
Sat., July 13th
Family Dharma Center
WON’T YOU VOLUNTEER??
WE HAVE A NEW WEBSITE!
Mrs. Midori Nakagawa has designed & launched a
new Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple website: www.
fresnobuddhisttemple.org
She continues to update it as new information arrives. Take a look!
Comments/suggestions appreciated!
Thank you Mrs. Nakagawa!!
MOVING? NEW PHONE NUMBER?
If you will be moving or have changed your phone
number, please remember to contact the office with
new contact information... thank you!
Tuesday, June 11th
7PM at the FDC
UKULELE CLASS
Friday, June 14, 2013 at the
Family Dharma
6p Dinner - 7p Session
Please call me if you plan to have dinner
Glenn @ 435-8050
FDC ADDRESS CHANGED!!
The physical address for the Family Dharma
Center has been officially changed to 2690
E. Alluvial, FRESNO 93720
BUT, please remember that ALL correspondence, including donations & pledges,
should still be sent to the office @ 1340 Kern Street, Fresno
93706 and NOT to the FDC.
Basketball for the 40 and
over Gang
Dust off those Chuck Taylor
Converse high tops and join your
friends as we exercise while we
socialize.
Open Gym 7:00pm - 9:00pm:
June 6 & June 13
No gym on June 20 or June 27
Have EMAIL?? If so, please consider
receiving the Geppo via e-mail. Help
us be green and give it a try!
Call 442-4054 or email: losaki@ fresnobuddhisttemple.org to let us know. If
you find that you would still rather receive the issues by
regular mail, we can change it back.
Thank you to those who are already making a difference!
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Page 10
JUNE 2013
JUNE SHOTSUKI HOYO “JOYOUS MONTH” (Memorial for Deceased Betsuin Members)
OBSERVANCE: Sunday, June 9, 2013 @ 10:00AM
Abe, Atsuko
Araki, Hatsuyo
Arata, Nakazo
Ashida, Brandon Kenichi
Baba, Toyozo
Coats, Hatsue
Doi, Marcus Masao
Domoto, Tona
Fukagawa, Aiko
Goto, Denichi
Hamada, Chito
Harada, Sadaji
Hashiba, Ayako
Hashiba, George Kanomatsu
Hatakeda, Hazuye
Hatayama, Kenzo
Hirasuna, Henry Kaname
Hirasuna, Jimmie
Hirasuna, Keith
Hirasuna, Ryo
Horii, Take
Hoshiko, Harry
Ihara, Masakichi
Ikebuchi, Tatsujiro
Ikeda, Hideyoshi
Ikeda, Sakino
Ikuma, Gunichi
Inaba, Kiyoko
Ishikawa, Tomiko
Iwamura, Natsuye
Iwasaki, Tadashi
Iwata, Tokuzo
Kaku, Yuryo
Kamikawa, Toshiko
Kamimoto, Koyuki
Kasahara, Sjirobei
Kasahara, Yone
Kato, Sheryl
Kawada, George
Kawano, Katharine
Kawaoka-Wong, Miyuki
Kawasaki, Noboru
Kawate, Kazuo
Kihata, Natsu
Kimoto, Shizuko
Kinoshita, Toki
Kiyama, Tokichi
Kobayashi, Goichiro
Koizumi, Sanzaemon
Kondo, Yukiye
Kubow, Hidemaro Henry
Kunishige, Miyoko
Kurushima, Umeyo
Masaoka, Chieko
Masuhara, Jitsujo
Matsubara, Chiyemi
Matsumura, Emi
Matsuoka, Chizuye
Matsuura, Masaru
Minamoto, Masaichi
Minamimura, Natsue
Misaki, Yukio
Mitsuhara, Miyokichi
Mitsumune, Haruno
Miyake, Asajiro
Miyake, Tad Tadao
Miyamoto, Chiyono
Miyamoto, Mike Minoru
Miyata, Ruth Sachi
Mori, Junichi Ronny
Morishima, Masato
Morishima, Uichiro
Morishita, Harry Masao
Mukai, Tetsuo
Muratani, Isosaburo
Nagao, Yusa
Nakamura, Bob
Namba, Kisaji
Namba, Tsuruko
Niino, Gunichi
Niiori, Tonami
Nishikawa, George
Nishikawa, Yutaka
Nishimura, Lisa Midori
Nishiyama, Yuki
Nitta, Jane Hisaye
Nobori, Richard
Nomura, Kiyoko
Obata, Fuiko
Okamura, Asakichi
Okumoto, Ida Tatsuye
Ota, Jack
Otani, Natsuyo
Oto, Joan
Otsubo, Toshio
Sakai, Ichisaku
Sakomoto, Maude
Sasaki, Asae
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Sawamura, Toragoro
Seto, Mary Isami
Shikada, Unosuke
Shimoide, Kanekichi
Shintaku, Tadashi
Shitanishi, Toyotaka
Sugita, Isuye
Suzuki, Yukiko
Taira, Kanezo
Taira, Tomotaka
Takahashi, Yoshito
Takeshita, Herbert Amaki
Taketa, Masaichi
Tamura, Shizuye
Tanaka, Toshiko
Tange, Elaine
Tange, June
Tange, Ted
Tanimoto, Shiori
Tanimoto, Wataru
Tashima, Frank Masashi
Taylor, Bryan
Tokumoto, Minoru
Tokunaga, Hatsuye
Tokunaga, Uzo
Toshiyuki, Tomi
Tsuji, Naoe
Tsurumaru, Kiyoshi
Wachtler, Donna Joy
Wada, Kinobu
Watanabe, Seisou
Yagura, Mitsuko
Yamada, Chizu
Yamada, Frances
Yamagiwa, Hisa
Yamaguchi, Toshio
Yamamoto, Cecile Shizue
Yamamoto, Jon Mark
Yamamoto, Masaru
Yamamoto, Rikichi
Yamamoto, Shiro
Yamamoto, Tsuruo
Yamasaki, Chiyono
Yamashita, Susumu
Yasumoto, Chieko
Yokomi, Akira
Yokoyama, Rinosuke
Yoshida, Hikosuke
Yoshino, Chiye
JUNE 2013
GEPPO
Page 11
Fresno Betsuin Dharma School
by Co-Superintendents, Rick Ideta & Dennis Yee
Rick: “We did it! We finally graduated as Dharma School
Superintendents!”
Dennis: “Wow, what a great year! What grade did you end up
getting?”
Rick: “I got an A+, what about you?”
Dennis: “Take your arm off of me!”
To our graduates:
“The unfortunate, yet truly exciting thing about your life is that
there is no core curriculum. The entire place is an elective.”
- JON STEWART
Dennis: “Nice graduation photo Rick. Lucky for us they didn’t have
a requirement back then on how long our hair could be! Are those
natural curls?”
“Follow your passion, stay true to yourself, never follow someone
else’s path unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you
see a path, then by all means you should follow that.”
- ELLEN DEGENERES
Rick: “Yes they are! Things were much more relaxed back in the
70’s when we graduated from high school. By the way, did you
notice my nails too?”
“Life is an improvisation. You have no idea what’s going to happen
next and you are mostly just making things up as you go along.”
- STEVEN COLBERT
June is here, and our last Family Dharma Service and classes were
held on Sunday, June 2nd with a pizza party send off for all of the
children and parents to enjoy. Thank you to Jenny Kubo for helping
us organize this lunch.
“Congratulations to the Class of 2013”
The Dharma School senior class has nine high school seniors
graduating from their respective high schools this month. We
would like to extend our congratulations and well wishes to Katie
Asai, Tiffany Hata, Emily Kawakami, Kari Kimura, Scotty Sakamoto,
Garrett Sano, Kristin Shimoda, Scotty Yebisu, and Marissa Yee as
they begin their next journey in life and attend college.
Congratulations as well to those children who will be going from
elementary school to middle school and from middle school to high
school next year!
June will be a busy month with graduation events, Father’s Day, CC
Cobra’s basketball tournament and summer vacations. Dharma
School will be busy planning for Obon and getting the game booths
organized. Please plan on helping out and working a shift or two at
the game booths/cake walk. Details will be sent out by your teacher.
Fresno Jr. YBA
by Tiffany Hata
There were a couple major events in the month of May for Jr.
YBAers. Members volunteered to serve dinner at the Fresno Betsuin
Golf Tournament. All members were excited to help, and the club
received positive feedback from the tournament committee and
participants!
The Mother’s Day French Toast Breakfast was another success
this year; thank you to Calvin Nishimoto, Kyle Tsudama, and their
families for organizing the event! Also, thank you to everyone who
came to the fundraiser, especially the MOTHERS!
In upcoming events, we have been having volleyball practices in
order to prepare for the Bay District Volleyball Tournament on May
25th and 26th. We are also in the process of electing new officers,
and unfortunately we are getting close to saying goodbye to all of
the seniors who will be graduating soon.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Page 12
Fresno Betsuin “Camping in the Sierras”
“An Evening With Great Taste”
As soon as you reach the parking lot of the Family Dharma Center
you could smell the tasty teriyaki steaks being barbequed. It was a
prosperous evening for both the diners and the campers. Camping
in the Sierras crews served guests delicious teriyaki steaks as the
campers benefit from the profits to help finance part of their camp
registration fees. It was a winning evening for everyone!
Since February our steak dinner committee has work hard to make
sure the evening was a huge success. With many meetings,
hundreds of emails, phone calls and texts the co-chairs made sure
the dinner ran smoothly and everyone experience a wonderful meal.
We would like to recognize and thank co-chairs; Sherri Araki, Shari
Sakamoto, Cindy Sano and Paige Takahashi. Also, big thanks go
out to their husbands and chefs; Stanley Miyake, Daryle Sakamoto,
Dean Sano and Ko Yebisu. A special thanks to alumni parents
Roberta Araki, Alex Araki, Hatsuko Hanashiro and Alvin Hanashiro.
We certainly appreciate their continual help and support!
We would like to thank the campers, parents and counselors for
their help selling tickets and working the many shifts. To all of
our supporters; we thank you for making this annual fundraiser
a prosperous event. We love seeing all of you each year. Your
support is greatly appreciated. Because of you, our campers will
have a wonderful time at the 47th Annual Camping in the Sierras
on August 4th to 11th. With much gratitude we would like to thank
the following donors for their generous donations.
JUNE 2013
Boy Scout Troop 199
written by Quinton Mukai, Historian
In the month of April we had lessons on cooking at our monthly
troop meetings. We also had scouts help out at the yard and
basement clean-up at the Fresno Betsuin Temple. We found some
very old items from the Boy Scout troops from the 1920’s and
1960’s in the basement!
Our new upcoming Scout Master Mr. Ralph Kuramoto helped in
setting up a class for the scouts to earn a Rifle Merit Badge at
the First Step Rifle Class. Members of the UC Merced Shooting
Club taught the class, and it was held at The Range in Fresno. We
learned the importance of Gun Safety, Parts of the rifle, Cleaning
and Proper handling. We were also joined with another Boy Scout
Troop 8900. We shared the classroom training and later worked
on target practice shooting at paper targets. Afterwards, we
celebrated a job well done by doing what we do best, we ate PIZZA!
Thank you Assistant Scout Master Kuramoto!
With Gassho,
Mo and Peggy Nakamoto
Camping in the Sierras Committee
Ms. Ashley Tange and Mr. Jeff Naemura
Mr. Ken Ishimoto
Mrs. Myrtle Masumoto
Anonymous
Mrs. Ayleen Osaki
Dr. & Mrs. Alex Araki
Mr. & Mrs. Dallas Kanagawa
Anonymous
Mrs. Toshi Tsuda
Dr. & Mrs. George Nii
Mr. & Mrs. Satoshi Kuwamoto
Mr. & Mrs. Toshiro Otake
Mr. & Mrs. Dean Uota
Mr. & Mrs. Royce Kimura
Mr. & Mrs. Mas Takemoto
Mr. & Mrs. Hideo Tsutsui
Mr. & Mrs. Barry Kondo
Mr. and Mrs. Barton Ashida
Mr. Ken Kawano
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Girl Scout Troop 305
Page 13
Hawaiian Plate Dinner
My name is Morgan Miyake and I am a Girl Scout in Troop 305
working to attain my Gold Award. I was introduced to the idea of
composting last spring, which is a type of recycling that allows us
to reduce waste in our landfills by turning it into a rich fertilizer
for our gardens. I have been doing research and working with
various members of different organizations to compile educational
resources on the subject. I was able to create a brochure and
a video featuring members of the Fresno Betsuin, Unitarian
Universalist Church, Alluvial Community Garden, and Girl Scout
Troop 305. I then organized an event, in which over 100 members
from these organizations, plus friends and family, came to the
Family Dharma Center to eat lunch, watch the video, walk over
to the neighboring Unitarian Universalist Church to observe
the composting systems they utilize, and take home copies of
my video and brochure. This event was a way to bring all these
different organizations together and will hopefully encourage
many people to start composting at home and at the church. A
composting tumbler was obtained for the Family Dharma Center.
I would like to thank everyone who attended my event and the
organizations that have been utilizing the tumbler. Also, a big thank
you to those who have donated to my project. The contributions
will help cover the cost of printing brochures, the DVDs that were
made for the video, and the overall cost of the event I held. I’d
also like to thank my wonderful advisor, Betty Cornelison, chair
of the Alluvial Community Garden, along with other experts and
master gardeners Bill Murphy, Dave Roberts, Jenny Martin, and
Elijah Bahm. Thank you to Ruth Yoneda, the Fresno Betsuin Board,
and of course my family. Thank you all for your support as I am
one step closer to achieving the Gold Award.
In Gassho,
Morgan Miyake
Things to compost: Grass clippings, leaves, shredded paper, coffee
grounds, fruit and vegetable scraps
Do not add: meat, fish, bones, weeds, banana, peach, or orange
peels
Thank you to everyone who bought our dinner, raffle ticket, or
donated to our fundraiser. As a result of your generosity, we were able
to net over $18,500, our second best year. $17,000 has been given to
the Fresno Betsuin general fund. This will be used to help pay the
operating costs for the Family Dharma Center. $1,000 was give to
Project Dana, to be used for their senior programs. Once again, we
used recyclable containers. We ask that everyone in the Betsuin be
more environmentally conscious.
Congratulations to our lucky raffle winners: Kyoko Ikuma - $500,
Yoko Nishikawa - $250, and Sue Yamasaki - $150. Thank you to all
the Clovis members, who worked on the dinner, and helped make
it a success. Thank you especially to those who helped that are
not members of Clovis. They are: Rumi Arakawa, Akiyo Ashida,
Les & Donna Ishii, Stan Jitsumyo, Ken Kawano, Gordy Misaki,
Marge Miyasaki, Maryann Miyasaki, Sid & Margie Mukai, Akiko
Nagai, Kevin Nagata, Midori Nakagawa, Geno & Gale Nakai,
Sherri Nakashima, JoAnn Namba, Doris Nii, Janet Nishii, Frank
& Amy Nishikawa, Ellen Nomura, John & Elle Shitanishi, Hiromi
Somawang, Lorraine Takahashi, June Urabe, Ed Watanabe. Sorry,
if we missed anyone.
Finally, thank you to the following for your monetary or in-kind
donations: Joyce Aoki, Alex & Roberta Araki, Dell & Nancy Araki,
Bee Sweet Citrus, Gerald & Kathleen Suda Cedarquist, Shizuko
Domoto, Sharon Ezaki, Kevin & Lynn Fukuda, Alvin & Hatsuko
Hanashiro, Toshi Harada, Norm & Patricia Heyamoto, George &
Kimi Hirata, Michiko Hotta, Allan Inouye, Nancy Inouye, Tokiye
Inouye, Leslie & Donna Ishii, Shig & Marge Jofuku, Junior &
June Kagawa, Dallas & Paula Kanagawa, Jill Kanagawa, Kelvin &
Norma Kawano, Kenneth Kawano, Yasuhiko & Kayoko Kawasaki,
Dr. Sumio & Sayo Kubo, James & Jenny Kubo, Tom Kumashiro,
Buster Kurihara, Sam Kurisu, Ruth Kusamura, Satoshi & Sachiye
Kuwamoto, Betty Maekawa, Eiji & Keiko Maruko, Judy Masada,
Myrtle Masumoto, Gordon & Laurette Misaki, Grant & Lynn
Miyamoto, Marge Miyasaki, James & Sharon Morikawa, Ed
Morishima, Sid & Margie Mukai, Edward & Akiko Nagai, Brian
Nagata, Alice Nakai, Ben & Jessie Nakamura, Dennis & Stephanie
Nakata, Yuriko Nakatani, Bill & Joann Namba, George & Doris Nii,
Sachiko Niino, Ross & Cynthia Nishijima, Cherry Nishioka, Larry
& Ellen Nomura, Gerald & Suzy Ogata, Ayleen Osaki, Clifford &
Lee Osaki, Miyako Sakazaki, Robert & Alice Sano, Scarlett Sato,
Carolyn Shimizu, Jane Suo, Lorraine Takahashi, Frank & Janet
Tamura, Junji Tanaka, Yutaka Tanaka, Mattthew Tange, Noboru &
Yuriko Togioka, Sachiko Tokubo, John & Sally Tomita, Michael
& Betsy Tomita, Toshi Tsuda, Gene & Cynthia Tsukamoto, Helen
Tsukida, Jimmy & Lily Tsuruoka, Hideo & Linda Tsutsui, Upper
Crust Enterprises, John Urabe, Carol & Jaime Visitacion, Donald
& Gerry Wakida, Sue Yamasaki, Margaret Yuyama.
Glenn Hamamoto
co-chair Hawaiian Plate Dinner
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Page 14
JUNE 2013
BON
Festival
July 13th
Fresno Buddhist
Dharma Center
2690 East Alluvial Ave
(between Chestnut & Willow)
Special Guest Appearance by the world~acclaimed ...
Doors open at 2:00pm
Enjoy a variety of Asian~flair food
and desserts throughout the day!
4:00pm
Taiko drumming, carnival games
& bake walks
7:30pm
Memorial Lanterns, Obon Dancing,
Taiko Drumming & Raffle… win $2500!
Information:
(559)442-4054
info@fresnobuddhisttemple.org
Photo credits: Dennis A. Amith & TaikoProject
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Page 15
OBON...
It’s about honoring the past, appreciating the moment.
It’s a Festival of Lanterns.
It’s showing love and support to the Hatsubon families.
It’s the sight of youngsters in their colorful yukata and hapi coats.
It’s dancing, food, games, entertainment and fun.
It’s spending a great evening with family and friends…
It’s a sense of being. To devote time and effort into putting on a great event is very satisfying.
So please come on out… watch the sunset and talk and laugh into the night.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
The memorial lanterns have such great meaning. Won’t you please buy or re-hang lanterns in memory of a loved one? Yes,
pets are loved ones too! Once again, we have the Hako (box) style lantern this year!!
Since the obon has turned into a major fundraiser, we hope each member of the temple will buy or sell the raffle tickets that will
be mailed to you soon. It’s a chance to win $2,500!! Include your family & friends in the drawing.
Also,if you have a couple of hours to spare and would like to volunteer your time in the set up, day of and/or the day after the
event, please contact Lee at the Betsuin office to be assigned a work shift. We can sure use your help!! It’s getting extremely
difficult to find volunteers and just a few hours of your time would go a long way to help! Please consider.
Lastly, you are an important part of the Temple and we thank you for all past donations made towards the well being of the
Betsuin. We’ll see you on July 13TH… Gassho.
Name _________________________________________________________________
Phone __________________________
Address __________________________________________________________ E-mail: _______________________________
Yes, I would like to support the 2013 Fresno Buddhist Temple Obon Festival by purchasing the following:
Raffle Ticket(s) @ $10.00 each
$__________
Memorial lantern(s)
@ $22.00 each $
_________
In memory of _____________________________________________________________
(one name per lantern, please)
@ $8.00 each
$ __________ (please bring lanterns to office)
Pet Memorial Lantern(s)
@ $7.50 each
$ __________
Lantern Re-hang
Pet’s name
_____________________________________________________________
(one name per lantern, please)
If necessary, please use separate sheet for additional names & information
Additional “FESTIVAL OF LANTERNS” Donation
$ __________ VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!!
Total Enclosed - Checks payable to “Fresno Buddhist Temple”$ __________ THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!
PLEASE RETURN ORDER FORM & PAYMENT BY JULY 8TH - 1340 KERN STREET, FRESNO CA 93706
Questions? Call (559) 442-4054 or email: info@fresnobuddhisttemple.org
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
Page 16
JUNE 2013
VOLUNTEERING
COUNTS!!
The most important
hours of your week may
be those that you give
away.
Since the Obon Festival is one of the largest fundraisers for the temple, we encourage everyone to help in any way possible.
Whether it’s helping specific organizations, assisting with food preparation, constructing and/or decorating booths and the yagura,
or helping with sales in the booths, your volunteer hours is very much appreciated. Without you, the Obon Festival would not
be the success that it is each year.
Won’t you consider giving us a couple hours of your time? If yes, please return this page to the Betsuin office, e-mail Lee Osaki
with your preferred shift... losaki@fresnobuddhisttemple.org OR call 442-4054 by July 1st!! Thank you very much!
Name (s) _______________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________ Email ______________________________________________________
I am willing to help! Please sign me up for the following shift(s):
____
Booth construction: SUNDAY, JULY 7 - 9:00AM
____ Yagura construction, lanterns, outside wiring: FRIDAY, JULY 12 - 8:00AM
BOOTH SALES - SATURDAY, JULY 13 (shifts may be shortened, if we have plenty of helpers!)
____
2:00PM to 4:00PM
____
4:00PM to 6:00PM
____ 6:00PM to 8:00PM
____ 8:00PM to 10:00PM
KITCHEN HELP - SATURDAY, JULY 13 (shifts may be shortened, if we have plenty of helpers!)
____
2:00PM to 4:00PM
____
4:00PM to 6:00PM
____ 6:00PM to 8:00PM
____
8:00PM to 10:00PM
Cleanup - Sunday, July 14 - 9:00AM
No response necessary.... the more the merrier!
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Page 17
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Women’s Association
by Michi Hotta, President
Obon Dance Practice
Thanks to Toban IV (Elaine Urabe/Amy Nishikawa) for providing
the delicious snacks for the CCBWL meeting held on Thursday, 4-25,
at the Fowler Buddhist Church. The ladies provided the snacks in
brown lunch bags which were easily and quickly passed out with
bottles of water.
Wed., June 19
Thursday, June 27
Tuesday, July 2
Tuesday, July 9
Thursday, July 11
On Sunday, 5-26, at 1 p.m. at the Annex, the FBBWA members and
friends made 600 bouquets and these were distributed on Monday,
Memorial Day, 5-27, at 7 a.m. at the Mt View Cemetery after a brief
service conducted by
Rev. Nakagawa. Thanks to Toban V (Sue Nishida/Carol Takahashi)
and helpers for making all the arrangements and providing
refreshments. Some of us also attended services at the Veterans of
Foreign War Memorial in Roeding Park at
9 a.m. where each organization placed a wreath at the Memorial. Then
it was back to Mt. View Cemetery to attend the Japanese Interfaith
Services at 10 a.m.
7:00pm
Family Dharma Center
There is a lot of graduation activities in the month of June but a quiet
month for the FBBWA. Since there is no meeting in July, we will be
discussing scheduling and making somen for the Obon Festival being
held on Saturday, 7-13. Toban I (Arline Yokota/Linda Takahashi) are
in charge. Remember the June meeting will be held on Sunday, 6-2, at
1 p.m. after the Family Dharma Service. There may be a time delay
if there are still people in the Multi-Purpose Room.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
6 1
Japanese Language & Cultural School Graduation,
10 a.m., FDC
6 2 Family Dharma Service, 10 a.m., FDC
6 2
FBBWA Cabinet/Toban-cho Meeting, 1 p.m., FDC
Rennyo Shonin Memorial/Shotsuki Hoyo Service/
6 9
Scholarship Awards, Speaker Rev. Katsuya Kusunoki, 9:30 a.m., FDC
6 16 Happy Father’s Day!
7
7
7
7
7
7
4
11
12
13
15
21
Happy 4th of July!
FBBWA Somen Prep, 1-4 p.m., FDC
FBBWA Somen Prep, 8 a.m., FDC
Obon Festival, 2-10 p.m. (FBBWA Prep 8 a.m.), FDC
FDC Outside Clean up, 8 a.m.
Obon/Hatsubon/Shotsuki Hoyo Service, 9:30 a.m., FDC
April 2013 Donations:
General donation: Joyce Aoki $50
Nikkei Party Donations: Charles & Hanako Goto $30, Richard &
Lily Doi $25, Patty Bungo $20, Ayleen Osaki $20, Arlene Urabe $
5, Hiro Tsudama $ 5, Betty Hishida $ 5, Kimi Hirata $5
For visitation: Mikiye Tashima. $10
For visitations to mother, Helen Yamamoto: Kathleen Markovich
& Jenny Teraoka $200
Anniversary donation: Shig & Helen Inahara $100
In memory of sister, Teresa Tange: Christopher & Jill Tange $75
Bring round fan, folding fan, kachi-kachi
and towel
Questions?
Call Sharon Morikawa @ 2599578
Blood Donation Day
May 19, 2013
While our goal each donation day is
48, the Central California Blood Center
staff seemed quite happy with having
our 22 registrants and 21 units of blood,
including a new, 1st time donor.
Thank you everyone, even those that could not give on donation day.
Since timing is everything, some people find they went to a restricted
zone or gave too recently or were too low on iron or one of many
reason. But those are the reasons that keep the blood in the blood
centers pure and strong.. So, keep up the yourselves healthy and keep
looking for our promotional materials, because we will most likely be
having our next day in September to continue with our goal of having
one every 4 months. Once again, a big THANK YOU!
Gasshou
Senior Club
May 7, 2013
Meeting called to order by president, Jane Crump. Shokuzen no Gassho led by Rinban Nakagawa. Toban 4 served curry rice and dessert.
Mrs. Otake made manju and Mrs. Miyake made mochi. Next month’s
lunch meeting on June 4, 2013. Toban 5 will serve somen. Deadline
is May 24. Toban heads call Lily Doi or Lily Tsuruoka. Shokugo no
Gassho led by Rev. MacDonald.
Jane Crump reported on Nikkei Foundation Trip on May 21. For more
information, call Nikkei Foundation 237-4006. Rumi Arakawa reported
on Las Vegas trip May 13-15 and Chukchansi trip, June 18.
Hunter Arakawa reported on the blood drive, May 19. Golf tournament on May 5 was a success. Thank you to all who volunteered.
Don’t forget Jr. YBA French Toast Breakfast on May 12 and Camping
in the Sierra’s steak dinner on May 18. If you need tickets, contact
Kimi Hirata. Meeting adjourned after bingo games.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 18
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
EDUCTION & PROPAGATION COMMITTEES
Caregivers Program
Project Dana by Donna Ishii
Fun Greeting Card Making Classes are
soon scheduled. Please join us for class
and salad bar on Monday, June 3rd, at
the FDC, 10 am, instructed by Joyce
Kubose. In July, Joyce will be having
3 more classes, Mondays, July 1st, July 15th, and the July 29th.
Interested? Please call and sign up! Crochet Class (salad bar)
will meet on Tuesday, June 11, @10am. Call Betsuin, 442-5054
X17 or 285-4874 for more information.
Project Dana is very grateful and thanks all donors for their
generosity and kindness to our program! For the month of May
(April 20, 2012 to May 17, 2012) Project Dana wishes to thank
everyone who donated food products, monetary and miscellaneous
items: Ukulele Club, Tai Chi Class, Ed Morishima, Les Ishii,
Brent Nagao, Nancy Inouye, Fran Imahori, Irigoyen Farms, Ken
Kawano, Shirley Jowe, Takao Matoba, Gary & Yaeko Iwai, Bob
& Fujiko Nakagawa, Alice Yoshimura, Nob & Harumi Sasaki,
Carole Masumoto, Margaret Yuyama(IMO Irene Jue), Rinko
Yoshioka, Dorothy Takeno, Cherry Nishioka, M/M Shigeto
Miura Family, James & Celeste Romano(IMO Teresa Tange),
Kathy & Wayne Cedarquist(IMO Teresa Tange), Dr. & Mrs.
Shaw Yorizane(IMO Teresa Tange), Marlene Kubota(IMO Teresa
Tange), Ellen & Rick Ibello(IMO Teresa Tange), Tom Kumano
Family(IMO Teresa Tange), Les & Donna Ishii(IMO Teresa
Tange), Laurence & Sharon Kimura(IMO Teresa Tange), Kimihiro
& Hitomi Sera(IMO Teresa Tange), Fred & Nancy Kubota(IMO
Teresa Tange), J S Hatanaka(IMO Teresa Tange), Mas & Ruth
Maruyama(IMO Teresa Tange), Ms. Laurie Gatrell(IMO Teresa
Tange), Lindell & Susan Yoshimura(IMO Teresa Tange), Wayne
& Gail Yamagiwa(IMO Teresa Tange), Masashi & Dorothy
Tazumi(IMO Teresa Tange), Karen & James Chinn(IMO Teresa
Tange),Mary & Carolyn Shimizu(IMO Teresa Tange), Gordon
& Joyce Taber(IMO Teresa Tange), Tayeko Matsumoto, Himeko
Morikawa, Linda Tsutsui, Paula Kanagawa, Aya Kimura, Margie
& Sid Mukai, Jim Chinn, Bob Shintaku, Warren Maruko, Michi
Hotta, Amy & Frank Nishikawa, June Urabe, Stephanie Nakata,
Ruth Yoneda, Carolyn Morishita, Lorraine Fujitsubo, Sue Nishida,
Joann Namba, Diane Jablon.
Project Dana gratefully thanks all the volunteers for their
continued support! May volunteers: Joyce Kubose, Mrs.
Midori Nakagawa, Sherian & Glenn Hamamoto, Ruth Yoneda,
Frank & Darlene Hashimoto, JoAnn Namba, Emiko Taketomo,
Nancy Inouye, Cynthia Tsukamoto, June Urabe, Frank & Amy
Nishikawa, Stephanie Nakata, Yuri Omori, Tayeko Matsumoto,
Geri & Mas Shimamoto, Carolyn Morishita, Sue & Pauly Nishida,
Betty Hishida, Allan Inouye, Alice Nishimura, Ed Watanabe,
Frank Matoba, Kenny Kawano, Paula Kanagawa, Jim Chinn,
Harvey Hanemoto, Bob Shintaku, Elmer & Dorothy Kobashi,
Mineko Kuramoto, Michi Hotta, Aya Kimura, Margie Mukai,
MaryAnn Miyasaki, Diane Jablon, Lynn Arakaki, Lorraine
Florence Hamamoto, Rinko Yoshioka, Marge Miyasaki, Hiromi
Sumawang, Chris Nishimoto, Karen Uyemaruko, Arline Yokota,
Wayne Yamagiwa, Linda Takahashi, Ross Bustos, Ken Kanemoto.
Please don’t hesitate to call the Betsuin office if you know anyone
needing senior assistance, information, a homebound meal or if
you wish to volunteer for the Project Dana program. (559) 4424057X17 or email projectdana@fresnobuddhisttemple.org.
FYI: The June homebound delivery meals will be on Friday,
June 14, 2013 Participants, please notify us if there is any change
for your delivery.
In Gassho,
Donna Ishii
PROJECT DANA SERVICES STILL BEING
OFFERED
* Home Visits * Telephone Visits * Respite Assistance
* Hospital & Home Care Visits * Transportation for
medical appointments, grocery shopping, religious
services, etc. *
Please do not hesitate to call Donna, if you are in
need of any of these services
@ (559) 442-4054, ext #17)
Project Outreach
by Lynn Arakaki
Thank you to all who are helping with the coupon drive. I really
appreciate you separating the coupons for food, pharmacy, men,
women, paper, etc. It is also helpful separating them by months. It
really saves me time. I am also taking magazines.
Morgan Miyake presented her compost education project. It was very
educational and encouraged me to compost at home. We can now
compost at the church. Thank you Morgan for reminding us that
we are one with nature and composting is helping the environment.
Mrs. Nakagawa recycles her coffee grounds twice. She uses them to
deodorize her refrigerator and freezer and after that uses them in her
garden. Coffee grounds are great to get rid of afids.
If you have food left over from one of your events please remember
the Evangel Home and the Rescue Mission will take prepared food.
Thank you for supporting the outreach projects.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
GEPPO
JUNE 2013
Page 19
FUTURE OF BUDDHISM NEWS...
13th Annual Fresno Betsuin Golf Tournament
by Hunter Arakawa
Why Do People Give?
They personally believe in the cause.
It is said that the membership of many Buddhist Temples,
including the Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple, is aging. But
rather than look at it as a disturbing observation, I see it as a
wonderful link to the many years that so many people have
believed in the teachings of the Buddha. It is in our Buddhist
Temple and Family Dharma Center that the teachings are
shared and taken to heart. From here we take it to our
homes, our work and to our family and friends by what we
have become as good people.
Although Buddhism is part of everything around us, the
completion of our building project by finishing the temple will
provide for us a centering point for we as its members and
for younger and future Buddhist in the Central Valley. Focus
on the moments that you spent in the old Betsuin Temple
downtown. Focus on the moments you spend in the Family
Dharma Center in a service and envision what it would be like
in a new serene temple setting. I know that this is a cause that
many, many of us can believe in. Please join us in donating
and working towards making the temple a reality.
Multi-Chance Drawings
by Hunter Arakawa, Chairman
The drawings of the May Betsuin Board
Meeting were lucky for Mrs. Chizuko Tsukida,
Mrs. Yuri Omori and Mr. Sho Kamimoto.
Congratulations to them and all our supporters who have chosen to enter. Our gratitude
for your support.
May 5, 2013 was a great day for 100 golfers who played in the
13th tournament. Instead of roasting in the 100 degree heat we had
been subjected to just days before, we had a wonderful cool-down
that day just a little windy at times. The Eagle Springs Golf &
Country Club across from Table Mt. Rancheria was challenging
and in great shape. The volunteers, including wives and friends
and the C.C.Y.B.A, helped us check in and were on the course to
help us on our specialty holes. Every group battled themselves and
the course to scramble their way around 18 holes, and, in the end,
the fathers and sons Hata, Hata, Takao, & Takao - were the *1
team. Congratulations to them and all the golfers who competed
and completed their rounds as teams, not for individual glory but for
a group goal. We also continued with our youth movement and had
6 young players this year; we hope to add more next year.
The goal of everyone, generally, is to win. However, in the case of
“ill winds” not allowing us to do so, our second goal is to get to the
banquet preliminary goodies the Kitchen Club provided - before
everyone eats up the great hors d’oevres. Every year they use such
great imagination in coming up with those dishes and prepare the
wonderful surf & turf main courses, followed by a terrific dessert.
This year, they were asked to come up with a vegan dinner, which
they did superbly no surprise to us. We are hopeful they will continue
to make ours THE tournament to attend.
This year, we had the honor of recognizing the efforts of an individual
who is dedicated to the Betsuin in all her efforts for its betterment.
As always, she made the table decorations a pleasant setting to enjoy
our meal. With the help of our Jr. Y.B.A., meals were served with
quiet professional demeanor that were recognized by the golfers and
guests and made us all proud of them. They helped to set things up
and clear away things once we were finished all with a quiet dignity.
When all is settled with our income and expense statements, we are
hoping to have made about $17,000, some of which will pay for an
upgraded water heater to go with our new dish washer, which insures
that our dishes, pots, pans, & utensils are not only clean and sterile,
but will come out dry, so we won’t have to use all those towels.
We have to conclude that our tournament was again a great success
in terms of the golf, golfers, meal, and fund raising efforts before and
after the tournament. We must thank all of the people and businesses
who donated money, goods, and services that led to the financial
success. So we are looking forward to the first Sunday in May 2014
for our 14th Annual Betsuin Tournament at Eagle Springs G& CC.
The Committee thanks everyone involved - Gasshou
We are almost at the half way mark of the
2013 year and are continuing to receive entries. We hope you are
included or will be in the future. Our best wishes for everyone. Good
Health, Happiness, Peace and Tranquility to everyone, always.
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 20
GEPPO
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
JUNE 2013
JUNE 2013
GEPPO
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 21
Page 22
GEPPO
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
JUNE 2013
JUNE 2013
GEPPO
Fresno Betsuin Buddhist Temple
Page 23
The Fresno Buddhist Church
1340 Kern Street
Fresno, California 93706-3390
“Namo Amida Butsu”
Throughout ...
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 24
Fresno CA
Past
Present
Future
HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!
June 16th
June Happenings...
JAPANESE LANGUAGE SCHOOL GRADUATION
Sat., June 1st, 10AM - FDC Classroom
DHARMA FAMILY SERVICE
Sun., June 2nd - 10AM
RENNYO SHONIN MEMORIAL AND JUNE SHOTSUKI HOYO SERVICE
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS AND GRADUATE RECOGNITION
Sun., June 9th - 9:30a Japanese, 10a English
Speaker: Rev. Katsuya Kusunoki, Lodi Buddhist Temple
PROJECT DANA HOMEBOUND MEALS
Fri., June 14th, FDC
SHINRAN’S SERVICE
Thursday, June 14 - 12pm
FDC Small Chapel/Classroom #101
TSUBAME NO GAKKO
June 17 - 28, FDC
TSUBAME NO GAKKO GRADUATION/OPEN HOUSE
June 28, FDC
FRESNO BETSUIN OBON/
CARNIVAL
July 13th
July Heads Up...
OBON PREP: July 7-12
OBON FESTIVAL
Sat., July 13th
2pm - 10pm
SHINRAN’S SERVICE
Monday, July 15th - 12pm
FDC Small Chapel/Classroom #101
PROJECT DANA HOMEBOUND MEALS
Fri., July 19th - FDC
OBON & HATSUBON SERVICE
JULY & AUGUST SHOTSUKI HOYO SERVICE
Sun., July 21st
9:30a Japanese, 10a English
Local area Obon Odori Dates
Fresno - July 13
Fowler - July 20
Parlier - July 21
Reedley - July 27
Visalia - July 28