No. 4 Various Events at the Beginning of the Year

(Inagi Newsletter February 15, 2012 issue)

This year, we welcomed a peaceful start to the new year, and I participated in the New Year's events as the new Mayor.
On New Year's Day, I attended the New Year's Festival, and it seemed that the number of visitors at each shrine I attended was higher than usual.
At the fire department's New Year ceremony held on the 8th, a large rainbow appeared over the playground of Koyodai Elementary School during the simultaneous water discharge, and everyone was delighted, feeling hopeful for good fortune.
At the Coming of Age Ceremony on the 9th, we celebrated with 562 new adults. In Inagi City, the method of self-planning and management by the executive committee has taken root, and the event is held peacefully every year. This year, it started with a lively performance by the cheerleading team from Teikyo University, and included a video letter from Nadeshiko Japan's Iwashimizu player, making for a packed program. During this time, as we reflect on the recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake, the significance of becoming an adult, while being aware of the bonds between the nation, the community, and individuals, as well as volunteerism and charity, comes to mind. The determination expressed by the committee member in a single character was "Satori" from Chairperson Arai. It signifies the resolve to live responsibly as an adult. I was impressed by the splendid ceremonies and pamphlets, and I am grateful for the community strength in Inagi that nurtures such calm and responsible youth.
On the 10th, I participated in the martial arts opening ceremony held at the Tama Central Police Station. Judo and kendo matches were held between the police officers and young boys and girls. Right at the start of the new year, it was a very spirited event, showing a strong commitment to crime prevention and traffic safety, which reassured me.
As I write this manuscript, it is already past mid-January, but looking back, I remember that all the citizens I met uniformly wished for peace and safety.
Now, we will prepare for the new fiscal year's budget formulation and the first Regular Session of the City Council, and I will work hard to gather everyone's opinions and meet your expectations.