William T. Fujioka (L), Los Angeles County CEO, accepts an award on September 20, 2007 from Mike Eng (C), California's 49th State Assembly Member, as a guest speaker Judge Fred Fujioka formally introduced his brother to the audience at Empress Pavilion Restaurant, Los Angeles, California. More Photos >> William T. Fujioka, Los Angeles County CEO, is going to accept a gift from Rose M. Ochi, at the Reception honoring him, in the Empress Pavilion Restaurant, Los Angeles, California, on September 20, 2007. William T. Fujioka, Los Angeles County CEO, delivers his speech at the Reception honoring him, in the Empress Pavilion Restaurant, Los Angeles, California, on September 20, 2007.

Slide Show Two >>   More photos (Dept. Heads)

LACAAEA Executive Board, current and retired members attended a truly memorable Reception honoring William T Fujioka on Thursday, September 20, 2007 at the Empress Pavilion Restaurant in Los Angeles, California. LACAAEA and the Japanese American Bar Association were the Gold sponsors for the event.

The audience was comprised of Superior Court Judges, County Department Heads, many LACAAEA present, past, and retired members, Los Angeles City employees, and Asian Pacific Islander Community Support Groups.

The introduction of the Honoree was, Mr. Fujioka’s brother, Judge Fred Fuijoka. He described many milestones in the past that contributed to Mr. Fujioka’s political skills and tenacity. Judge Fujioka praised Mr. Fujioka’s grandfather and father for their legacy of sacrifice and determination.

Mr. William Fujioka, given the podium, promptly responded to his brother’s remarks by adding that his Mother has been a major influence on his life. He personally recognized his mother Mrs. Linda Fujioka and the audience responded with thunderous applause.

It was a wonderful feeling to see the excitement and happiness conveyed to Mr. Fujioka and Family as the first Asian Pacific Islander of Japanese descent has become the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the County of Los Angeles. What a tremendous honor!

LACAAEA is proud to welcome Mr. Fujioka back to the County of Los Angeles. Shortly, after retiring as the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Los Angeles, Mr. Fujioka responded to the call for continued public service.

Following his appointment on Tuesday, July 10, 2007 as CEO, the five supervisors praised Mr. Fujioka. Chairman Zev Yaroslavsky said, “Bill Fujioka is a man of experience and integrity, who has a strong work ethic and independent mind. He is the right man for the job at a time when Los Angeles County faces very difficult and critical decisions.

LACAAEA wishes Mr. Fujioka all the best as he serves the County family and the people of Los Angeles County with his political skills, leadership, humor, determination, and tenacity.