Presidents Message Sept 2009

President's Message

I would first like to thank al1 of the volunteers who have worked so hard to make this year's Obon Festival a success and Jim and Sue for their immeasurable patience.

Like most men, I am a channel surfer often changing from one program to another on my TV and, like most women, my habit drives Lynda absolutely crazy. Growing up in the cold time audio visual generation has made my television, and not my computer, as my main form of entertainment outlet. When I am alone watching my TV I often gravitate to local government meetings and Christian religious channels to see what the competition is doing.

Even though I am envious on how efficiently Mayor Reed lams his council meetings, my message is related more to the religious channels that take up a lot of my cable channels. I find it interesting how the evangelists sell not only salvation but by contributing more you will be blessed and prosper financially. Whether you buy the books or the DVD sets, you will be guaranteed your ticket on judgment day. What really amazes me is that the new "Secret," or the path to salvation, is living a life of thankfulness or gratitude. Sound familiar?

During these tough times, everyone is trying to keep their heads above water and the Betsuin isn't any different. We sell DVDs, books and have fund raisers, but it is the membership that keeps us afloat.

During the next few months, we will be looking at making some modifications to the existing membership process and trying to establish a fair and equitable process for all of our present and future members.

Thank you for your support.
Steve Ichinaga