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My name is Russell Kato. I graduated from C.K. McClatchy High School back in 2004. Now I would say that was a long time ago, and I could make a joke about how old I am but then I wouldn’t be taking into consideration the feelings of my parents, aunts, uncles, and parent’s friends. You see, if I say that I am old, by reason of deduction that would in turn just make them very, very old. Not sure if that makes sense, but then again, I never said I was smart, just that I graduated high school in 2004. So with that said, I would like to go ahead and describe how SASF has impacted my life.
Transitioning from schooling to adulthood is not an easy task. SASF and other community organizations alike, however, have been a consistently proven tool in helping myself and others to learn the foundational skills in making that transition. Such skills include work ethic, team building, the importance of interpersonal relationships, and most importantly responsibility. Always showing up when your services are needed (even when you don’t want to) is in my opinion the most key attribute one can have in the work force and in life. The years of volunteering at SASF events and being involved in the sports programs have 85% instilled that into my being and for that I am grateful. Shout out to Joel Kunisaki.
This past year has been a difficult one. I think we can all attest to that. Great memories, laughter, and a community to look in for support are key in getting through tough times. When the smoke clears and business continues as usual, I know that SASF will continue to thrive and will be a driving force in the success of our community and will only enrich the lives of those involved. Some of my fondest memories as a youngster were volunteering at the SASF crab feed, playing in the SASF basketball tournament, coaching youth summer leagues, and participating in the social events. Those memories of friends and laughter I hope I never lose. Although, back to the age thing, based on my genetics, that will likely occur in about 45 years. Age, the joke that never gets old.