May 2021

Looking forward, I am hopeful that PBC resumes some of its normal celebrations, gatherings, and services. I am very encouraged that the vaccinations are more widely available to individuals 16 years and older. As we approach the orange tier and California reopens the state, PBC will consider reopening the temple for regular services. This month, our Board will discuss the possibility of scheduling Obon and cemetery services. I appreciate everyone’s patience during this long pandemic and realize that this long isolation has taken a toll on everyone’s mental well-being and health. While we try to adapt to isolation and loneliness through our electronic devices, there is really no substitute for human interactions and support. Seems like a simple hug or ‘hello’ goes a long way to making a beautiful day. I hope that PBC could be a source of support for our Sangha.

I am happy to report that the roof on the Education Building has been completed except for a few cosmetic touches. New rain gutters have been attached to ensure proper drainage. The new roof now matches the color and design of the temple roof. Many thanks to Nob Nimura and Gustavo Ibanez who, on short notice, repaired and later repainted the exterior trim of the building. Recently, additional security cameras were added to enhance surveillance within and around the temple. You may remember that a Safety Vulnerability Assessment was completed last year by the California Intelligence Center, an agency affiliated with the Department of Homeland Security. Over time, PBC hopes to improve our security and safety of our members by implementing their recommendations.

Around the corner on May 1st, PBC will host its popular Annual Golf Tournament at the Lincoln Hills Golf Course. Within two weeks of sending the invitation, all 144 available slots were filled. I thank Rich Kawahata and Bruce Yamashiro for co-chairing the event. The supporting cast on the committee include Lydia Maggio, Doris Mar, Ed Nakamoto, Myra Okasaki, Dave Oseto, David Unruhe, René Yamashiro, and Yvonne Yoshikawa. We are looking forward to a successful event!

While on hiatus, I wish to thank the Garden Group, led by Susan Perrott and Hiroshi Matsuda, who meet monthly to maintain the facility landscape. With a lot of growth, it will take time to tame our ornamental plants. I also thank Ed Nakamoto and Rich Kawahata for trimming the grass around the driveway and the facility. With extreme fire danger around the corner, it becomes especially important for us to maintain safety clearances around the buildings.

On May 15th, the Stockton Buddhist Church will host Reverend Marvin Harada, Bishop of the BCA, for their Spring Virtual Seminar. The seminar is entitled, “Practical Buddhism and Truth Level Buddhism.” I encourage everyone to participate. To participate, you must register in advance at the following link to participate. https://forms.gle/ULkwnwkV97jSnJuK8 This event has been posted on our website and Facebook. A reminder email communication will be sent at the end of this month.

Thank you to all who have continued to support our temple. I am encouraged to see signs of life reemerging from this pandemic. Hopefully, we will begin to see the friendly faces of our members around our temple soon. In the meantime, please let me know if there is anything we can do.

In Gassho,

Allan Yamashiro, PBC President