1November 2008 2008年11月 Vol.34 Issue 10

Sakura Ball 桜ガラDaihachi Oguchi Tribute Taiko Concert小口大八追悼太鼓コンサート

November Movie Night “Bashing”11月の映画鑑賞会「バッシング」

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2008-2009 JCCC Board of DirectorsPresident Martin KobayashiVP – Expansion Gary KawaguchiVP – Management Ann AshleyVP – Legacy Arthur ItoVP – Heritage Ken NomaVP – Marketing/Membership Donna DavisSpecial Ambassador Sid IkedaSecretary/VP- Projects Sharon MarubashiTreasurer Sri KuganPast President Steve OikawaExecutive Director James HeronDirectors-at-large Wai Chak Glenn Inamoto Jane Liu Junko Mifune Yuki Nakamura

Lorene Nagata Dereck Oikawa Russell Onizuka Cary RothbartAdvisors Miki Kobayashi Mickey Matsubayashi Fred Sasaki Connie Sugiyama

JCCC StaffJames Heron Executive Director jamesh@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.224

Kathy Tazumi Accounting/General Administration Manager kathyt@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.229

Christine Takasaki Community Events/Volunteer Coordinator christinet@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.221

Haruko IshiharaCommunity Rentals harukoi@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.228

Christine SekiCorporate Rentals/Programming and Business Development christines@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.231

Sally KumagawaMembership/Database Administrator sallyk@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.223

Toshiko Yamashita Heritage/Newsletter Coordinator heritage@jccc.on.canewsletter@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.227

Yuki HipshAdministrative Assistant/Ijusha Relations yukih@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.235

Constantin DutescuOperations and Techinical Coordinatorcontantind@jccc.on.ca 416-460-3522

Maki KlotzReceptionist/Giftshopjccc@jccc.on.ca 416-441-2345 ext.222

The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre NewsletterEditors:James Heron, Kathy Tazumi, Toshiko YamashitaJapanese Translation: Toshiko YamashitaCover Photo: Fall in Kyoto

We welcome your news! Please send articles to:newsletter@jccc.on.ca orJapanese Canadian Cultural Centre6 Garamond Court, Toronto, ON M3C 1Z5tel 416-441-2345 fax 416-441-2347 www.jccc.on.ca

The submission deadline for the December 08/January 09 combined issue is Wednesday November 12, 2008.日本語の記事も受け付けています。１２・１月合併号の締め切りは2008年11月12日(水）です。

Calendar of EventsNovember/December 2008/January 2009

November Sat & Sun 1&2 Road to Asia Sat 8 Karaoke Club Wed 12 Taiko Concert: Tribute to late Mr. Oguchi Thu 13 The Art of Origami Sat 15 Sakura Ball Wed 19 Cooking Workshop –Rice VI Thu 20 Washi Greeting Card Workshop Thu 27 Movie Night “Bashing” Fri 28 Speaker Session Sat 29 Karaoke Club Sat 29 Yule Log From Scratch workshop (Nihongo) Sat 29 Karaoke ClubDecember Sat 6 Karaoke Club Thu 11 Origami Workshop Thu 25 Christmas Day - JCCC closed Fri 26 Boxing Day – JCCC closed Wed 31 New Year’s Eve Dinner and DanceJanuary Thu 1 New Year’s Day –JCCC closed Thu 1 Shin Nen Kai Sat 17 Taiko Workshop ‘ Wed 21 Cooking class - noodles Sun 25 Oshogatsu Thu 29 Movie Night

日

系

文

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館

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features

2 First Annual Sakura Ball

2 Daihachi Oguchi Tribute Concert

2 Movie Night "Bashing"

3 Introductory Kyudo Class

5-6　　　　 Community News

11 　 ＪＣＣＣニュース

12 　 日系コミュニティーニュース

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Tribute Concert to Taiko Pioneer Daihachi OguchiOn Wednesday, November 12 2008, a once in a lifetime event will take place at Kobayashi Hall as Yakudo, Nagata Shachu, and former members of Toronto Suwa Daiko (Toronto’s first taiko group 1982-1992) join forces in a tribute concert to taiko pioneer Daihachi Oguchi. Grandmaster Daihachi Oguchi was the founder of Toronto Suwa Daiko and hundreds of taiko groups around the world. He passed away suddenly in his hometown in Nagano prefecture in June at the age of 84. In memory of his significant contributions to the art form, and for planting the seeds of taiko in Toronto, these three groups will share the stage and perform a selection of Oguchi-san’s trademark compositions and much more.

Date: Wednesday November 12, 2008Time: 7:30pmTickets: $15 General, $10 JCCC members

Mr. Daihachi Oguchi

This Month: The First Annual Sakura BallSaturday November 15, 2008

This month we launch our first annual Sakura Ball, a Gala evening featuring the best of Canadian and Japanese entertainment and cuisine in celebration of the completion of the JCCC’s Expansion Project. The year 2008 is very special as it marks the 20th anniversary of Japanese Canadian Redress and the anniversary of 80 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Canada. We are honoured to welcome The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Prime Minister at the time of the Redress settlement, as our keynote speaker. The evening will feature performances by Juno Award-winning jazz chanteuse Sophie Milman and the internationally acclaimed Nagata Shachu. Funds raised support the JCCC’s Legacy Campaign. Watch next month's newsletter for a review of the event.

JCCC Movie Night: BashingA Stark and Powerful Look at the Dark Side of HarmonyJoin us at the JCCC for this very powerful 2006 film which documents the emotionally devastating story of Yuko. Her story is suggested by the real-life experiences of a Japanese woman who was on a self-styled volunteer mission in Iraq when she was captured by insurgents, held hostage and finally released unharmed. Back home, she was widely criticized by the media and public for going to Iraq in the first place, as well as for causing trouble for her rescuers and embarrassment for the nation. She returns to Japan and endures humiliation and harassment from her coworkers, boyfriend, and strangers on the street. Even her father is affected when his company receives threatening phone calls, and he is fired. Japan, as we know, is an extremely harmonious society. “Bashing” depicts the dark side of this otherwise positive aspect of life in Japan – the difficulties of accepting differences and the sometime extreme reactions this can provoke. In short, the film teaches the Japanese vocabulary for exclusion, including ijime (usually translated as “bullying”) and murahachibu (social ostracism -- literally, “cast out of the village”). Screened in competition at the Cannes Film Festival, “Bashing” represents a breakthrough for veteran director Masahiro Kobayashi, and garnered a flood of media attention upon its release. It deserved this attention not so much for the originality of its stripped-down aesthetic, based on the style on French filmmakers, but for its unsparing look at what might be called the Japanese way of ostracism, carried to its ultimate extreme. BASHING is a heartbreaking tale of intolerance and intimidation beautifully acted by Fusako Urabe. Director Kobayashi’s bleak landscapes and minimal style underscore this shameful story loosely based on true events

Date: Thursday November 27, 2008Time: 7:00pmAdmission: $8 General, $6 JCCC members

Dedication of Kazuo Hamasaki RoomFriends and family members of the late Kazuo Hamasaki, artist and community supporter, are invited to attend the official opening of the Kazuo Hamasaki Room at the JCCC, located on the second floor. The event will take place on Monday December 15, 2008 at

6:30pm. Light refreshments will be provided and those interested are requested to contact the JCCC Reception Desk at 416-441-2345 x 222 or jccc@jccc.on.ca.

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WANTED: Japanese Toy RobotsThe JCCC Heritage Committee welcomes donations of Japanese mechanical toys, especially toy robots or books on Japanese robots for a planned future exhibit. Please contact Toshiko Yamashita at 416-441-2345 x227 or heritage@jccc.on.ca.

Martial Arts Fee Increase With an eye on member safety, as well as the JCCC’s desire to maintain one of the finest martial arts studio in the country, the JCCC has decided that mat replacement is now a priority issue to be addressed this winter. We must also look at the many other aspects of the martial arts centre which need attention: our change rooms and showers require refurbishment, the walls in the wood dojo are in constant disrepair and require a long-term solution…the to-do list is a long one and growing. To mitigate the on-going repair and replacement costs in the future, beginning in January 2009, monthly martial arts fees will increase by $5 per person. This marks only the second increase in fees in well over 10 years. These funds will be used on an on-going basis to ensure that funds are always available to ensure the safety and quality of our martial arts centre. We thank the martial arts members and instructors for their great energy, enthusiasm and support.

Introductory Kyudo Programme to Commence at the JCCCThe JCCC is excited to announce the start of a regular Kyudo programme as part of the martial arts program. Lessons will commence with a 12-week introductory programme. Once complete, depending on interest, students will be able to enter a regular weekly practice. The introductory 12-week course will be repeated in the winter term with students then entering the regular programme. Unfortunately student numbers are limited to 20 students in total. Those unable to participate this time are welcome to sign up for the winter course. The course is divided into 4 stages:

- Hassetsu (The Eight Stages of Shooting and Posture Practice) - Gomu-yumi (Practice Bow) - Subiki (Drawing the bow without an arrow) - Makiwara Practice (Shooting towards a short-distance target)

By the time the course finishes, students will be able to shoot towards a Makiwara-target and be ready to continue to the next level. We have two highly ranked sensei. Takahashi Mie, an electrical and IT engineer by profession. She was awarded the rank of 5th Dan four years ago. Since 2001, she has participated as a member of the Chiba-ken kyudo team in the Japanese national sports championships (Kokutai). She is currently working in a co-op program in Toronto. Salvatore Gianfreda is originally from Switzerland. He lived in Japan for 6 years and studied in Nara Prefecture under the guidance of Sakanaka Kazuo sensei, Kyoshi 6th Dan. Salvatore has been studying Kyudo for 12 years and presently holds the title of 5th Dan. After leaving Japan he moved to Barcelona, Spain where he has been head instructor at the Barcelona dojo for the last 8 years. He was an active member of the Spanish Kyudo Association participating in national seminars as well as European and international events. Salvatore is currently studying Traditional Chinese Medicine in Toronto. The course starts on Saturday November 22, 2008. Classes will be held on Saturdays from 1:30pm – 3:30pm. Students must be 16 years and over. Fee is $180 (+GST) for the 12-week course. JCCC membership is mandatory. Please indicate height on the waiver form in order to determine bow length. Additional equipment fee may apply. There has been such great interest that we can only take students on a first come first served basis. Please call the JCCC reception desk 416-441-2345 x222 to enrol.

Photo courtesy of Valentine Moreno.

Heritage Lounge Speaker Series Yuki NakamuraIn an ironic twist, the vivacious Japanese media star, Yuki Nakamura will be under the spotlight with host Ken Noma of the Heritage Committee. In what is guaranteed to be a lively, entertaining and informative evening, Yuki will talk to us about her profession as well as the personal issues that matter to her. We especially look forward to hearing about her recent travel to Kagoshima and her visit with Mr. Saigo Takafumi who visited the Centre in June. Yuki Nakamura was born in Tokyo, Japan and came to Canada in 1989. After graduating from York University in 1994 with the “Harman Geiger - Torel Memorial Award”, she has become a well-known Japanese media professional. She currently is the Associate Producer, Reporter & Host for Japanese Programming on OMNI TV. Yuki teaches Japanese to teenagers and also works as a coordinator for the Japanese Media visiting Canada. “No More Hiroshima, No More Nagasaki” is her first documentary film that has been awarded the Best Canadian Documentary from the National Film Board of Canada. She is very committed to make this world free from nuclear weapons and works to help create a world based on peace and mutual respect. The evening promises to be better than television, the cinema and kabuki. Admission is free but seating is limited so please RSVP to 416-441-2345. Light refreshments will be available.

Date: Friday November 28, 2008Time: 7:00pmPlace: Heritage Lounge

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JCCC New Year's Eve Dinner & DancePreparations are now underway for one of Toronto’s most popular New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance, to be held Wednesday December 31, 2008 in the Kobayashi Hall. Ralph and Theresa Yuan will provide the music for dancing and fun on Toronto’s finest double sprung dance floor. As in past years, dinner will be provided by Calvert’s Catering. Tickets are $125 per person and the proceeds are aimed to benefit the JCCC Phase III Expansion. This ticket price includes dinner, dancing, party favours, complimentary midnight champagne and snacks. And if that weren’t enough, there is also a chance at our fabulous door prize draws. Seating can be arranged for 8 - 10 persons per table. Don’t be disappointed! Don’t miss out on this fantastic party! Buy your tickets before the December 18 deadline. Call the JCCC at 416-441-2345 for more information or to purchase your tickets.

Shin-nen Kai DinnerCelebrate New Year’s Day the Japanese way with a feast!JCCC and Tori Ichi present the 8th annual JCCC Shin-Nen Kai on Thursday January 1, 2009, a glorious array of delicious festive food. Master Chef Kunio Ishii has once again teamed up with the JCCC to present a sumptuous start to the New Year. Classically trained in French and Japanese cuisine and experienced in Hilton kitchens internationally, Ishii-san currently operates a highly successful catering company. Locally, at the former Hilton Harbour Castle in Toronto, he held the prestigious title of Main Kitchen Sous-Chef. The 2009 Shin-Nen Kai will feature door prizes, entertainment, a 50/50 raffle, and of course, the star of the show - an absolutely luscious buffet. Over two dozen dishes of mouth-watering Osechi Ryori (traditional Japanese New Year’ fare), sushi and yoshoku (North American fare) will tempt your taste buds. A cash bar is also provided. Bring your friends and family to this unique New Year’s Day event like no other in Toronto. Doors open at 4:00pm and dinner begins at 5:00pm. Please see the flyer inserted for more details.

Gift Shop NewsGood news for our movie fans! Here is a chance to revisit some of your favourites from our previous Movie Nights. A number of our classics, including “Ping Pong”, “Maiko Haaaan” and “24 Eyes”, are now available on DVD at our Gift Shop. For those who missed some of these movies, now would also be a great opportunity to enjoy them. They are all valuable titles to have in your DVD collection, so drop by at our Gift Shop and check them out.

Issei DayOn September 28, the JCCC hosted our annual Issei Day to honour all those that are 70 and over. We filled Kobayashi Hall with more than 400 people and there were more than half who were 80 years and over –in fact there were many that were 90 and over!!! There was wonderful entertainment provided with odori, karaoke and a special performance by a young Yonsei, Jessica Tsuda. Many thanks to all the performers and the emcees Kunio Suyama, Yuki Nakamura and Mark Hashimoto. There was a short presentation about the Sedai project by JCCC Board of Director Lorene Nagata who provided a brief outline of this very important project that is designed to preserve the Japanese Canadian experience. At this time we would like to make specific acknowledgement to some of the people and groups who have helped make our Issei Day so successful now and the past. We extend our appreciation to Mr. Ishii for the bento – as his small group of volunteers and crew worked for 2 days preparing the food and began early in the morning filling all the bento boxes. And much appreciation to Mrs. Nishihama who, over the past years, has made the fantastic manju! Special mention to the NJCA (Nobby Muira and his group of volunteers) who manage the registration tables and help during the event, and also to the Oharayu for donating all the flower arrangements on the tables. Much appreciation also to the Consul General of Japan for the generous donation every year of sake.Overall, our deep-felt appreciation to the hard-working committee, staff and all volunteers for a fantastic event.

On September 27, members of the Heritage committee welcomed a donation of classical odori kimono to the JCCC by Ogawa Sensei (4th from left) of the Ogawa-ryu dance group. The kimono is currently on display in the 2nd floor display case. From left to right: Consul General Koichi Kawakami, Tomiko Kadonaga (95),

Martin Kobayashi, Kazuo Tanaka (95), Honourable Kathleen Wynne.

Classical Odori Kimono Donation

Scene from the movie "Maiko Haaaan!"

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Charitable Donation “Tax Deadline” & Tax Tipsby Mark MatsumotoJCCC volunteers support the JCCC by giving of their time and money. We are very grateful as it has allowed us to create something that we can all be very proud of. For those willing, financial donations can be received by the JCCC or the JCCC Foundation. It is important to note that tax deductions for Charitable Donations are based on the calendar year and not until February 28. Therefore donations have to be received prior to December 31 to be eligible to deduct this year. If you have investments that are in a capital gain position, your options are to: 1) Sell the investment, trigger a taxable capital gain and give the cash from the sale or 2) give the investment to the JCCC. If you select the second option, then you will receive a charitable donation receipt for the market value of the investment and will not be taxed on the gain! Therefore you are better off giving investments that have appreciated in value. This type of transaction may take some time to carry out, so it is important to start now for a 2008 tax deduction. There are some “fancy” things that can be done to create large tax deductions using life insurance products and charitable trusts which will allow you to keep your money while you are alive but still give it away now. Again, these things also take some time to set up so you need to start now for a 2008 tax deduction. Generally, you and your spouse should combine your charitable donations. Donations above $200 reduce income taxes at your marginal rate, so you can save a few dollars by combining your donations when you file your income taxes. The general message is that you need to plan early. You should get your 2008 charitable donation plan started now. You can call me, Mark Matsumoto, CA, CFP, CPA if you want help or advice on setting up your 2008 charity plan or long term charitable giving options. I am a founding member of the JCCC Foundation, former JCCC Board Member and former Treasurer. I can be reached through the Centre or directly at 416-805-3320.

Sumi-e Painting Exhibitionby the Sumi-e Artists of CanadaExpressing the spirit of nature and man in sumi-e painting has been a tradition dating back centuries. The spiritual aspect of this ancient Japanese art is demonstrated in this year’s sumi-e painting show titled, "The Spirit of the Brush". This show hosted by the Sumi-e Artists of Canada celebrates 80 years of diplomatic relations between Japan and Canada.

Date: Saturday, November 22 & Sunday, November 23, 2008Time and Place: 12:00pm to 5:00pm, Shokokai CourtAdmission: No charge. Donations to the Sumi-e Artists of Canada are accepted.Opening ceremony: Saturday, November 22 at 1:00pmMore information: www.sumieartistsofcanada.org

Toronto Kohaku Newsby Toronto Kohaku CommitteeTickets are now available for the ever popular “Toronto Kohaku” which has become the year-end tradition in the Japanese community in Toronto. Last year was the very memorable 30th anniversary show. The best Toronto singers and performers will be coming back to offer another entertaining evening on Saturday, December 13, 2008 at the JCCC Kobayashi Hall. Showtime is 6:30pm. Admission is $20. Reserved seating only. Tickets are now available through Ms. Ohmori (416-531-2749) or Ms.Sasaki (905-940-3652).

November Video Screenings at the Japan Information Centreby the Consulate General of JapanFeel free to drop in with your lunch! Admission is free!

Friday November 7, 2008 12:10pm - 12:55pm

Wednesday November 19, 2008 12:10pm - 12:55pm & 1:10pm - 1:55pm

Project X: Innovators<The Seikan Tunnel - 24 Years Beneath the Sea>The Seikan Tunnel - the world’s longest undersea tunnel - links Cape Tappi, at the northern tip of Honshu, to Yoshioka in Hokkaido. Its construction, which spanned 24 years beginning in 1964, started with a pilot tunnel drilled by a team of railway engineers and tunnel-building specialists. The plan was to dig from both sides, under the Tsugaru Strait, and meet up in the middle. Difficult working conditions and the constant threat of floods led to frayed nerves and accidents, including deaths. The drilling foreman vowed to complete the project in the name of his fallen colleagues. This is the story of the enthusiasm and anguish of the men who risked their lives in a long struggle to build a tunnel under the sea, always conscious of their fellow engineers who died along the way. For additional information, contact the Japan Information Centre, Consulate General of Japan at 416-363-5488.

The Art of Kimono Dressing

A workshop on kimono dressing was held on October 25 and all participants had a chance to dress up in their own kimono while receiving useful tips and instructions from Hiroko Natsume Sensei. Look for information on more kimono workshops in future issues of the newsletter!

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Toronto Fukuoka Kenjin-kai "Furusato No Yube"by Toronto Fukuoka Kenjin-kaiOur annual Fukuoka Social Gathering, FURUSATO NO YUBE, will be held on Saturday November 29, 2008 from 1:30pm to 6:30pm at the JCCC. Please join us with your family and friends and enjoy a day of entertainment, odori, bingo and fukubiki. Fee is $15 including Bento* Fukuoka members, 80 and over - complimentary Please call the following for reservations by November 18 :Suenori Tominaga 416-266-5746Yosh Suyama 416-461-2384Asaye Amemori 416-781-4997 Sam Wakayama 416-742-7358

Nagata Shachu: 10th Anniversary and CD Release Concertby FLIP PublicityNAGATA SHACHU, Canada’s pre-eminent taiko (Japanese drum) group, will celebrate their tenth anniversary with a release of a new recording, Tsuzure (tapestry), and a very special concert on Saturday, November 29, 2008. Featuring new works, a number of pieces from the CD, as well as old favourites from Nagata Shachu’s extensive repertoire, this year’s annual concert promises to be like no other. Featuring an arsenal of taiko (including the massive O-Daiko drum), bamboo flutes, the three-stringed shamisen and an array of gongs, cymbals, shakers and wood blocks, NAGATA SHACHU’S 10th Anniversary Concert will take you on a musical journey beyond all borders. NAGATA SHACHU (formerly the Kiyoshi Nagata Ensemble) has enthralled audiences with its mesmerizing and heart-pounding performances of the Japanese drum (taiko) since its formation in 1998. The group has toured widely throughout Canada, the US, and Italy, performing in theatres, concert halls, and at major music festivals. While rooted in the folk drumming traditions of Japan, the ensemble’s principal aim is to rejuvenate this ancient art form by producing innovative and exciting music that seeks to create a new voice for the taiko. Taking its name from founder Kiyoshi Nagata and the Japanese word shachu, meaning group, Nagata Shachu, has become renowned for its exacting, straightforward, yet physically demanding performances as well as for its diverse repertoire. Their playing is the combination of unbounded spirit and passion with the highest levels of musicianship and discipline. The result is an unforgettable experience that is both powerful in expression and heartfelt in its sincerity.

Saturday November 29, 2008 @ 8pm – One Show Only!Ryerson Theatre, 43 Gerrard Street East, Toronto

Tickets$25-$30 adults; $20 seniors and studentsOn-line: www.UofTtix.ca; By phone: 416-978-8849

www.nagatashachu.com

Dundee Wealth Defeats Back2Feet to Capture JC 3-Pitch League Playoff Titleby Bob Doi, J.C. 3-Pitch LeagueThe Japanese Canadian 3-Pitch League proved once again that anything can and will happen in the play-offs. Dundee Wealth Management and Back2feet won only 3 games each during the regular season, but fate had them face each other in the playoff title game. Dundee Wealth captained by Glen Kawaguchi upset 1st place Wietzes Toyota (led by Steve Yano) 26-24 in a closely fought semi-final game. Back2feet captained by Paul Takasaki defeated 2nd place Birchmount Collision (led by Rob Takimoto) 39-34 in the other semi-final game. The playoff title game went back and force until the late innings when Dundee Wealth Management prevailed over Back2feet by an impressive 44 to 33 final score. Congratulations to all of the players for another fine season. The J.C. 3-Pitch League would like to thank its sponsors for their continuing support.

Back2feet - Ms. Yim LokBirchmount Collision - Mr. Wayne HosakiDundee Wealth Management - Mr. Martin KobayashiWietzes Toyota - Mr. Gary Brownlie

Playoff Champions: Dundee Wealth Management

Team Spirit Award Winners:Gary Wesseling (Birchmount Collision) and Sara Wong (Dundee Wealth Management). Absent: Larry Kimura (Back2feet) and Minhee Choi (Wietzes Toyota)

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After Downsizing What's Next...Especially for Seniorsby Bonni MaikawaSince my article on downsizing I have been to a ‘Clear your Clutter’ workshop and was impressed by the far-reaching effects that this process can initiate. When you think about clutter as ‘stuck energy’, the effects become not only physical, but mental, emotional and spiritual. Every simple act of clearing clutter has an underlying release of emotions, often negative. This generates energy and allows you to create space in your life for other things, other goals, or just simply space to breathe freely. Clearly, this can be the beginning of a transformation in your life. If you’re a senior, the decluttering, downsizing process can indeed liberate you…from the house that is now too big, or rundown or in need of repair or renovation. The question that you may then have to face is…What now? Where to now? If you are planning to stay in your home or buy something else, for example, a condominium, you should consider the status of title to this asset. You may want to consider title (e.g. joint tenancy) which would automatically leave your heir the property upon your demise, to avoid the costly and often lengthy process of probate. This is something to thoroughly discuss with your lawyer.

Thinking of a CondominiumOften when people think of buying a condominium they think they cannot afford the maintenance fees. Let’s compare home maintenance costs with condo fees. Experts in the field advise homeowners to allocate about 1% of the value of their home to the cost of maintenance per year. If you do this on a $400K home, for example, the approximate cost of maintenance per year is $4000 which is $333 per month. Maintenance should include the cost of roof replacements, window replacements, painting exterior and interior, heating/cooling mtce and replacement, eaves cleaning, exterior grounds garden, mowing and snow clearing, building insurance. These costs where appropriate would be pro-rated over their life to a yearly/monthly cost. Many people think they live in their homes for ‘free’ because they do a lot of things themselves but when you look at it realistically, the cost is there. And this $333/month does not include utilities, which could bring the monthly cost to $600 to $700 plus. When you compare this to the average maintenance fee on for example a $350K condominium, the maintenance fees will be in approximately the same range of price as the home maintenance … $300/month (cost is per sq. ft) to which must be added utilities. Some maintenance fees include utilities and will then be in a range up to about $500 to $600/month depending on the extent of the amenities. Remember that the utilities will usually be a lot less than that of a house…heating and cooling being in a protected unit of living. So we can see that the costs are comparable, the condo being probably a little less. Then of course, in addition to NOT having to DO all that maintenance and service (no bill paying if utilities are included), there are the AMENITIES such as security, concierge, exercise rooms, party rooms, guest suites, visitor parking, swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool , etc. Often, at the senior’s stage of the game, you would rather rent than own. My only piece of advice here is to rent from a good rental apartment building rather than rent a condo from an owner. The problem with the latter is that you never know when they may

decide to sell, leaving your fate rather uncertain. Sites such as View-it.ca and craigslist are excellent for this kind of rental search. Many seniors, when deciding on a new situation, want even more services and community than that which is offered in a condo or apartment, and there are many options from which to choose from: - Senior’s Apartments (some of which are attached to Long Term Care Facilities) These usually provide some combination ofhousekeeping services, meals, medical services on call and someprogrammed activities. If they are attached to an LTC facility then if something debilitating happens, moves and waiting lists are not an issue. Apartments like those at Momiji are not attached to an LTC but have established a relationship of referral to the Japanese Wing at Yee Hong Centre. - Retirement Residences – Privately owned and operated, profit or not-for-profit, they vary in cost and degree of service provided. They provide community and opportunities to socialize. - Long Term Care Facilities – provide 24 hour supervision, nursing care and assistance with daily living. These facilities vary considerably in their atmosphere, some being much more traditionally institutional than others. As a senior, even if you choose a condo or an apartment, it might be worth the effort to find out about the various Long Term Care facilities to see which ones may be of future interest to you. It is useful to familiarize yourself with the length of waiting list and how to best manage your position on it. You may want to allow a year or two on a wait-list. Please see my website www.bonnimaikawa.com for links to useful lists of Options for Seniors. If you would like to discuss any of these matters further, do not hesitate to contact me: bmaikawa@rogers.com or phone 416-966-0300.

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DONATIONS TO THE JCCC As of October 11, 2008

The JCCC gratefully acknowledges the following donations:

JCCCMr. and Mrs. Michael Byrnes 100Ms. Lynda Ellis 32Ms. Beverley Fujimoto 10Fujitec Canada Inc 500

Japanese Heritage Night at Rogers CentreMr. and Mrs. Ross Fukushima 25Mrs. Yaeko Furuya 20Mr. and Mrs. Koji Goto 50Mrs. Mitsue Hayashi 30Ms. Tomi Hiraishi 50Mr. James Imada 19Mr. and Mrs. Koko Kikuchi 100Mrs. Joanne Kiyonaga 50Mr. and Mrs. Noboru Koyama 50

Art Exhibition of Shizuye TakashimaMr. and Mrs. Glenn Lee 150Mrs. Sharon Marubashi 40

Japanese Heritage Night at Rogers CentreAnonymous 500

Japanese Heritage night at Rogers CentreMrs. Hisako Minemoto 30Mr. and Mrs. Harry Nagata 65Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Nishi 300Mr. and Mrs. Yukio Ode 100Mr. and Mrs. Buzz Ogaki 25Mr. and Mrs. Harry Okada 100Mrs. Hisa Okihiro 30Mr. Paul Omoto 10Mr. George Pachovsky 20Mr. and Mrs. Mits Sasaki 15Mrs. Miyeko Sugamori 30T. Donald Miller Foundation 1,000

Japanese Heritage Night at Rogers CentreMrs. Chiz Takata 50Mr. and Mrs. Saburo Takata 15Mr. and Mrs. Edward Tanaka 50UNIC International Products Company 500Mr & Mrs K Kumagai, Mr & Mrs T Tamaru,

Mr & Mrs A Suzuki, Mr & Mrs K Oishi, Mr & Mrs N Yamamoto 50

Mrs. Sheri Yamamoto 50Mr. and Mrs. Kenji Yokota 50Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Yoshida 15Mrs. Josie Yoshioka 100Mrs. Kay K Kiyonaga 35

Pat Adachi's 88th birthdayMrs. Ruth Krieger 50

Mrs Kadoguchi's 88th birthdayJTI-Macdonald Corp 25,000

Cultural Programmes

In MemoriamIn memory of Akira InamotoMs. Ellen Ishikawa 30In memory of Doug AraiMr. and Mrs. Noboru Koyama 50In memory of Yoshimitsu YamashitaMrs. Teruko Otani 30In memory of Jim UraMs. Jennifer Hashimoto 100In memory of John Hideo MiuraMr. and Mrs. Tad Miura 50In memory of Kazuo R KurodaMr. and Mrs. Miki Kobayashi 50Mrs. Masae Yamashita 50In memory of Mas SugamoriDesiderare Design 50Mrs. Miyeko Sugamori 100In memory of Osamu KobayashiMr. and Mrs. Miki Kobayashi 50In memory of Patricia Kimiko FujiwaraMr. and Mrs. Paul Dunn 100Mr. D. Fujiwara & Ms. M. R. Maggi 50Mrs. Mary Hatanaka 25Mr. and Mrs. Lewie Miya 100Mr. Frederick Sasaki 50Mr. and Mrs. Kamezo Tanaka 50Mrs. Betty Ura 30In memory of Ralph KamoMrs Michiko Kamo, Noriko Kamo,

Denice Kamo, Sharon Kamo 500In memory of Sumiye OtaguraMrs. Sumi Morito 25Mr. Raymond Nishimura 100In memory of Sumie TakashimaMrs. Kyoko Abe 10Ms. Kay Nagao 20In memory of Sumi YamamotoMr. Steve Maetche 25

In memory of Takashi IgashiraThe Igashira Family 50Mr. and Mrs. Mitsuo Nishimura 20In memory of Taxi and Marion IgashiraMrs. Mae Nagasuye 50

Gendai Art GalleryMrs. Christine Okawara 1,000

Shizuye Takashima retrospective

Family Golf Ms. Adrian Devlin 100Mrs. Kay Marubashi 125Towers Perrin Inc 280

Supporting MembersAmbassador:Mr. and Mrs. George Toyota 1,000Leader:Mr. and Mrs. Ken Ishii 465Mr. Masashi Shin 500Partner:Mr. and Mrs. Ross Fukushima 150Mr. and Mrs. Ted Harada 115Dr. and Mrs. Tatsuo Hori 165Mrs. Joanne Kiyonaga 130Mrs. Yasuko P. Kusano 130Mrs. Margaret Mori 130Mrs. Kyoko Kay Nakagawa 130Ms. Valerie Nash 120Dr. Rick Nishikawa 150Mrs. Kaye Oda 130Ms. Louise Okawara 130Mrs. Jean Yoshiko Seki 130Mrs. Miyeko Sugamori 150Mr. & Mrs. Richard & Stacey Takashima 100 Mr. and Mrs. Yosh Tanino 115Mr. and Mrs. Minoru Yatabe 150

Issei Day donations are greatly appreciated. Theindividual's name will not be published in the newsletter.Thank you JCCC

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Photo courtesy of Valentine Moreno.

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05-940-3652）。

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Planning Today, For Tomorrow

MEMORIAL GARDENS CANADACemetery / Mausoleum / Crematoria

Funeral Homes Across Canada

Stephen KawanoAgent

Tel: (416) 493-9580 ext.227 Fax: (416) 493-1171

��������������������Discount Air Tickets Japan Rail Pass

Travel Insurance Traveller’s Cheque

Vacation Packages Budget Japan Packages

416.504.5111 www.tokyotours.ca info@tokyotours.ca436 Adelaide Street West, Toronto, Ontario M5V 1S7

For All Your Real Estate Needs...Especially ‘Hands On’ Downsizing Service...

bonni maikawasales representative416 966 0300

bmaikawa@rogers.com/www.bonnimaikawa.com

sutton group associates realty inc. brokerage

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HEISEI MART BAKERY NAKAMURA

FãMu

JAPAN BEAUTYIMAGES

SAKANA-YA JAPAN BOOK CENTRE

TORA SUSHI CAFÉ GREEN TEA

STUDIO T

(905) 305-0108(905) 477-3555

(905) 475-5005

(905) 943-9248(905) 415-8889

(905) 415-0611

(905) 948-8047(905) 470-0758 (905) 475-4247

Beauty Salon

Japanese GroceriesBento Boxes

Breads, CakesHomemade Ice-cream

Natural MeatsJapanese cuts

Shiseido CosmeticsToiletries

Sashimi Fresh Seafood

Japanese MagazinesJapanese Books

Rental Video/DVD

Take-out SushiJapanese-style CaféEat-in and Take-out

Quality Hair ServicesJapanese Solutions

and products

JAPANESE SHOPPING CENTRE3160 Steeles Ave. E., Markham, Ontario

japantown.ca

HWY 404

Woodbine Ave.

Asian Kitchen

TOYOTA

Steeles Ave.

Victoria Park Ave.

J-TOWNHOURSMon: Closed Tue-Fri: 10am - 7pmSat: 9am - 7pm Sun: 11am - 6pm

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Welcome the New Year! Wednesday December 31, 2008 at the JCCC

6 Garamond Court, Toronto Proceeds to benefit the JCCC Phase III Expansion

Door prizes, favours, fun, and dancing ‘til 1:30 a.m. Cash Bar – Complimentary Midnight Champagne

DJ: Ralph and Theresa Yuan Cocktails: 6:00 p.m. Dinner: 7:00 p.m.

$ 125 per person (8 or 10 per table)

Tickets and information:

Call 416 441 2345 or www.jccc.on.caby December 18, 2008

VISA – MASTER CARD – AMEX accepted

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Wednesday January 1, 2009

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For seating purposes, please request free children-tickets (under 5)

Last date for ticket sales: Dec 19, 2008

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FLOWER TRAVELLIN’ BANDBack in Canada after 37 years

Special Open Rehearsal Concert at the JCCC

December 14, 2008 @ 7:00pmINVITATION ONLY

For Information Call Christine Seki 416.441.2345. x231

www.fl owertravellingband.com