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by JAMES WOODARD
Hokubei Mainichi

Hundreds of thousands of people poured out on the morning of June 29 to celebrate the 38th annual San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Pride Parade.

It was great weather for a parade as massive crowds filled any available viewing space along Market Street. People stood on top of city garbage cans and even scaled a few sculptures to get a glimpse of the flamboyant procession.

MT. SHASTA — Taiko is gaining popularity worldwide and has found its way to Mt. Shasta. Musicians Russel Baba and Jeanne Mercer founded Shasta Taiko 23 years ago, and their taiko program has had a direct impact on the development of American taiko.

SAN JOSE — The San Jose JACL has announced the recipients of its annual scholarship program.

The scholarships totaled $17,250 this year. Some come from the chapter’s funds while others are administered by the chapter.

The recipients, all high school seniors, are as follows:

Jeffrey Morimune of American H.S., son of Mark and Diane Morimune — Kenji and Shizu Sakauye Scholarship ($2,500), renewable for three additional years for $2,500 each year.

Andrea Hyde, of Leigh H.S., daughter of Cathryn Hyde — Kenji Sakauye Memorial Scholarship ($3,000).

Akabanaa, the Okinawan shop on the second floor of the Miyako Mall in San Francisco’s Japantown, will be celebrating the second anniversary of its opening on Saturday, July 5.

The Chikaho-Kai classical Okinawan dance troupe will be performing. The celebration will also feature famous Okinawan sanshin player Toru Yonaha.