To the editor:

The pouring rain didn’t dampen the warmth and good vibes at this year’s Mochi Tsuki celebration.

Our 28th annual event on Jan. 8 was a wonderful celebration of culture, community, friendship and history.

The Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community is delighted that an estimated 2,000 people came to pound in 2017 (one of our largest crowds ever), braving the cold, wet weather and at times standing in long lines for mochi and the invigorating performances from the famed Seattle Kokon Taiko drum group.

A huge thank you to the dozens of volunteers who tirelessly made this event happen, from setting up and preparing the 200 pounds of sweet rice, stocking the fires, steaming and pounding the rice and hand forming the hundreds of delicious mochi balls.

We are especially grateful for our gracious hosts IslandWood and generous partner Bainbridge Island Town & Country Market for their continued support, contributions and friendship.

A wonderful way to start to 2017. Happy New Year!

CLARENCE MORIWAKI, President

Bainbridge Island Japanese American Community