JCCCW’s annual Tomodachi Luncheon celebrates the year’s achievements and new board members

Kurt Tokita (left) and Lori Matsukawa

Last month, more than 350 guests attended the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington (JCCCW) Tomodachi Luncheon, which raised $60,000 through sponsorships and donations. The luncheon also commemorated a change in board members, with President Kurt Tokita filling the shoes of past board President Lori Matsukawa, who served on the board for nearly 10 years.

Matsukawa saw the organization through many accomplishments, including the recent increase in membership for the Japanese Language Library, increased enrollment at the Japanese Language School, and a $1.2 million renovation of the Issei legacy buildings. This year, under Tokita’s supervision, the newly renovated building opens to the public on the historic site’s 100th anniversary. (end)