A logo has been selected for Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the nonprofit community organization’s incorporation.
A logo has been selected for Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the nonprofit community organization’s incorporation.
Crafted by graphic artist Cary Tanoue, the design incorporates English and kanji spelling of the organization’s name along with an anthurium.
“If it’s representing Pahoa, it’s got to be an anthurium,” said long-time resident Glenn Watarida, a former president of the organization.
Accord-ing to the late Pahoa historian Hiroo Sato, an active member of Pahoa Nikkei Jin Kai, “The first anthuriums were imported from England in 1889 by Samuel N. Damon and planted in his Moanalua botanical garden.” That first variety had a pink spathe.
A multi-million dollar floral industry flourished, with more than 260 farms — the majority of the state’s production — on the Island of Hawaii in 1959. Pahoa was labeled the Anthurium Capitol of Hawaii.
“We are so grateful to Cary Tanoue for all his help,” said current president Craig Shimoda. “Cary also has cleaned the Pahoa YBA sign that hung on the front of the first hall starting in 1921 and on the current building since 1980. It will be ready to hang up again for the celebration.”
“We have a full slate of activities for Saturday, June 8,” said anniversary chairman Jason Hashimoto. “Registration has been extended until May 25.”
Advance registration is required for the memorial service, activities and luncheon. For further information, contact Hashimoto at 937-5941, or by email at jasonhashi@gmail.com.