Fukushima Minamisoma September 16 at 15:16
On the 16th of Respect for the Aged Day, in the city of Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture, the “Retirement Society” hosted by the city, which had been suspended after the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear accident, was held for the first time in nine years.
The “Retirement Society” held by Minamisoma City in each of the three districts to celebrate the longevity of the elderly was held for the first time in nine years in an effort to protect the local connections.
On the 16th, it was held in Odaka Ward where evacuation orders due to the nuclear accident were lifted three years ago, and approximately 300 elderly people aged 75 and over participated from local homes and areas where they moved after the accident.
At the venue, “Soma Nagareyama Odori” performed at the traditional festival “Soma Nomaoi” and cheerleading by local children, etc. were performed. I enjoyed dancing.
The woman who participated with her friend said, “It was a lot of fun because I saw traditional local dances and everyone's faces after a long time. I would like to have this opportunity again.”
The man who participated in the couple said, “I will soon be 90 years old, but I will return to Odaka soon. I will do my best and live a long life.”
Minamisoma City's Keirokai will be held on 29th of this month in Kashima and 14th of next month in Haramachi.