2010 Officers
President
Hi, I’m Blaine Asato, sansei (third generation) Uchinanchu. I grew up in Hawaii and was marginally exposed to the Okinawan culture. I spent twenty years in the Air Force and had the opportunity to serve a tour in Okinawa where I met my wife, Itsuko, your past Okinawa Kai president. I’ve learned so much of my proud heritage. I’m so impressed with the Okinawa Kai members who put so much effort into keeping the Uchinanchu spirit alive in the Washington DC area. I look forward to working with all of you through the next year.
Vice President
Haitai! I'm Akko Kakazu and it's my second term serving as VP. Utasarugutu, unigeesabira. I'm Uchina 1sei living here for 2 decades, and the more I get to know this city, the more I realize how fortunate we are in the capital, having the world within reach with so many embassies and international organizations. Our town not only is the best places to spread the Okinawan heritage and Uchina-spirit, but also is a cross road of the world, which enable us to reach Uchinanchu of the globe. How honorable to be the Ambassador of our island nation, Uchina!
Secretary
Hi everyone! My name is Akiko Clifford. I was away from this area for 5 years but I am so glad to be back to see familiar faces! I will do my best to help our Okinawan community! Douzo yoroshiku onegai shimasu!
Secretary
My name is Atsuko Kyereboah. I have been selected as the second secretary. I came to this area from Okinawa 2 years ago. I have a husband and 2 children. I attended the SSK for the first time this year. I was touched by the participants’ warm feeling for their far away home (Uchina). Dozo yoroshiku.
Treasurer
Hello. My name is Atsuko Russell. I feel very blessed to be part of the Okinawa Kai family. Living outside of Okinawa made me realize the strong ties we Okinawans have. We just can not stay away from each other! Wonderful isn't it? I'm looking forward to seeing you at the many events and getting to know you all.
Treasurer
Hello, my name is Itsuyo Bennett. I moved here 3 years ago from Okinawa with my husband and two children. I am very pleased to be a part of Okinawa Kai and to be your treasurer for the next year.
Bunka Bucho
Hai sai! I am Dennis Asato, just a proud Uchinanchu from Hawaii. We will have fun teaching, learning and sharing the beauty of our Okinawan culture with our families, friends and our communities. We would really like to hear your ideas for new activities. Onegai shimasu! Chibariyo!
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Bunka Bucho
Hi! My name is Minori Kinjo, and I will serve as the second bunkabucho for '08-'09 term. I have been involved in Okinawa kai activities since 2002 (time flies!). The best part of being an Okinawa kai member is to be able to meet and get to know fellow members. "Ichariba cho-de-" spirit is alive and well in our Okinawa kai! I hope that you will enjoy being an Okinawa kai member, and also hope that we can make it another fun and enjoyable year! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!