Chicago Aikikai received a warm reception for its two demos at this year’s Ginza Holiday Japanese cultural festival held by Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) on Friday, August 11 and Saturday, August 12. The weekend overall was reportedly a big success for the temple, which is good news as it is their major annual fundraiser and they have not held it since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chicago Aikikai members who participated or were in attendance had the opportunity to enjoy the food, as well as purchase some of the Japanese arts and crafts for sale.
SPECIAL NOTE – The MBT is putting out an appeal to aid the victims of the recent fires that swept the island of Maui in Hawaii. The MBT’s sister temple, the Lahaina Hongwanji, was completely destroyed and many of its members have been left homeless. If you wish to how to help or make a donation, please click here.