A Message From the CYS President, May '08

CYS Families,

On behalf of my mother, sister, and brothers, thank you for the tremendous love and support you gave us these past few months. My father was a huge supporter of CYS as he truly believed in family, friendships, and community. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in CYS activities, forever thankful his family was surrounded by such wonderful people. My attitude and love for our organization and community were established as a child watching my parents volunteer, always seeking ways to help.

CYS is about families

Our Pancake breakfast never changes: many hard working volunteers - parents and youth; attended by many members and guests; appreciation from our first generation who we will never forget and owe everything. A huge thank you to all who made it a huge success.

Our summer picnic is Sunday June 8 at Saratoga Springs. The committee is working hard in planning a great day of fun, food, and activities for both kids and adults. All had a great time last year and I’m sure it will be more of the same, please attend. Check here for information.

For the first time CYS had a booth (Spam Musubi) at Nikkei Matsuri. I thank board member Warren Uesato for chairing the event, he did a great job.

Bowling had a quick and fun season, starting so fast (few weeks after registration) is a credit to commissioner David Chu who is always so organized and positive.

Basketball finished another successful season with positive changes: expansion of instructional program, first week social, double practice sessions, and Holiday clinic to name a few. Most positive were Commissioners Robert Nakamae and George Li, our program is better due to them.

CYS Summer Basketball 2008 will be free of charge and structured to emphasize skill development – check website for information. NYBA members are invited; please attend as it will be a great two weeks.

Dance keeps going, practice every Friday and performing at numerous events, latest Nikkei Matsuri. Tremendous dedication by all: commissioners Kari Dobashi and Kris Suzuki, parents, kids, uncles, aunts, grandparents.

Tennis has enjoyed a weather perfect (no rain, cool temps) season to date. Volleyball is in full swing as well; both have great commissioners: Denise Johnston (tennis) and Tina Mukai (VB).

Golf is just around the corner; Commissioner David Tsukamoto is well prepared and ready. I encourage you to spend a few hours with them, Cinnabar Hills is beautiful place to hang out and relax for a few hours.

I asked Commissioners to take an aggressive approach to their programs, constantly looking for ways to improve. Please provide feedback with suggestions to help us do a better job serving your children.

My decision to not seek a 5th term for various reasons was a bad one. My current term has been my most enjoyable, satisfying, and productive of all; I have enjoyed it like no other. An effort to spend more time with your children, talking to them, asking and hearing their opinions has been great. The children never change, you have great kids!

As always feel free to contact me anytime you have questions or concerns about your organization

Consider the rights of others before your own feelings, and the feelings of others before your own rights

Thank you,

Alan