To make a donation towards our Centennial Celebration,
please use the QR code or the "Centennial Celebration" button
Thank you

Another important event that the SLOBWA undertook was the annual Keirokai Celebration which recognized all members 70 years and older. Food, entertainment, audience participation and camaraderie are characteristics of these events. It was a day for the church’s older members to bask in the spotlight and enjoy themselves. However, due to the increase in the number of members who fit the bill, the age requirement was increased to 75 years of age. Nevertheless, this popular event continues till today.

Other temple activities that SLOBWA vigorously supports are its major fundraisers: Wisteria Festival, Obon Festival, Golf Tournament and Crab Feed. The Wisteria Festival attempted to promote the Japanese culture within the community and like the Obon Festival, included food, crafts, martial arts and the odori. It was a popular event started by Rev. Futaba but because it was held in May, was too close to the Obon Festival. The Wisteria Festival was discontinued and later, the Annual Golf Tournament took its place.

SLOBC’s Annual Golf Tournament had its origin in 2004. The tournament was a means of celebrating Rev. Jim Yanagihara’s retirement and started out as several groups of golfers having a good time. Under Alan Hayashi’s leadership, this event is always held at the Cypress Ridge Golf Course on the Saturday after Mothers’ Day with 132 golfers participating. A BBQ dinner is held at the Hayashi Ranch after the tournament.

In 2008, the Activities Committee decided to hold a Crab Feed as a means of adding revenue to the church. Crabs were cooked in back of the temple using rudimentary old beer kegs. Over the years, the Crab Feed has turned into a major fundraiser for the church with over 300 attendees dining on 700 Dungeness crabs and sirloin steak.