Aloha! I hope that all of you escaped the recent torrential rains, fierce winds and hail without damage. Our temple did incur a minor roof leak above the hondo which resulted in wet spots and stains on the ceiling and wall. The SLOBC Board of Directors had just voted to have the temple roof replaced in the coming months, but this leak has put a sense of urgency to the project. Thank you to all donors of our Roof Replacement Fund Drive (see separate article). The roof replacement is a project that will honor our 100th Anniversary next year.

The Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) recently held its annual National Council Meeting in Renton, Washington where 6 years ago, the Covid-19 outbreak started just a few miles away. Perhaps the most important item addressed is the continuous 3%
decline per year in membership within BCA. It is Bishop Marvin Harada’s #1 goal to reverse this negative trend which threatens small temples to keep their doors open. Many tools have been suggested for attracting new members and an initiative is underway to possibly change how we classify members within our temples.

SLOBC was fortunate to have perfect weather for our Crab Feed on January 31st. Mild temperatures enabled us to not install the sides to the 16 pop-ups used for outdoor seating behind the temple. An abundance of volunteers made for an efficient event, enjoyed by the 200 attendees (we sold 400 tickets). Giovanni’s Fish Market delivered 1,400 pounds of crab (about 700 crustaceans) at 7 am. The Crab Feed is now our major fundraiser for the year.

Spring is just around the corner but don’t tell that to the Japanese cherry blossom trees along our driveway. Some blossoms have already bloomed but this recent cold spell may have forced the trees to delay their spectacular sights. Spring also brings with it
the rapid growth of weeds throughout the church grounds and seasonal allergies. Our weed whackers will be playing catch-up with the weeds, as we try to keep them under control.

Finally, the Japanese American student population at CalPoly has become actively involved with our temple. It just held its Winter Formal at our church and will be holding a Hanamatsuri celebration on our grounds in April (after the church’s own Hanamatsuri service). To gather support and generate donations, visit their GoFundMe page here. A few of their members even helped with our Crab Feed.

Gassho,
Gary Hongo