On February 1st, a clear, warm Los Angeles morning, the Urasenke Tankokai Los Angeles Association celebrated its annual Hatsudate Shiki at Wilshire Country Club. This year was meaningful as last year’s celebration was postponed due to the devastating fires in L.A. County. A total of 108 people participated including invited guests from the Japan Consulate Office in Los Angeles, the Urasenke Tankokai Orange County Association, and the Omotesenke Domonkai.

A raised stage for the tatezome or first tea-making was built displaying a scroll which translates to “Knowing your place and living within your means brings lasting happiness” by Hounsai Sosho.  A long, green, bamboo flower container with flowing willow branches to bring in prosperity, and longevity with red camelia, white plum blossoms, and pine accents. 

CoA Ann Abe welcomed everyone. A moment of silence honored the memory of our late Grand Teamaster Hounsai Hanso Soshitsu. Mr. Sohaku (Robert) Hori gave the New Year’s Greetings.  He honored the long life and incredible legacy of Hounsai Sosho who promoted chado all over the world. It is his wish to continue the path of the late Grand Teamaster  – for peace, harmony, and tranquility.

This year Tatezome or first tea-making was presented by Soyu Uyesugi shachu. They chose the elegant nagaita so kazari temae. Ms. Naoko Zaima was hanto or assistant of host, Ms. Tomoko Kurose was soto hanto or assistant, and the narrator was Mr. Nao Sugita. The event ended with great excitement at the annual raffle.