1. Construction Work

At the beginning of this year, the Phase One of land subdivision and transfer was completed, and the designs for over 20 buildings on Phase One’s four parcels were submitted for City approval. Given the large scale and unique nature of this project, the city government has been particularly conservative and cautious, especially concerned about the opinions of neighboring residents. It might be unfamiliar to some, but every detail and any technical implementation during the project's progress require continuous negotiation with various government departments to obtain one approval after another. This process is not as straightforward as project approval leading to immediate construction, especially in California, known for its stringent regulations. Although many wish for the commencement of the second phase, we must carefully navigate through the government's detailed requirements, including widening Lemon St., responding to land acquisition requests for neighboring properties, additional levee construction along the Mojave River, and designing municipal engineering for wastewater treatment and discharge. These major aspects are currently under more detailed studies and evaluations as we negotiate for favorable solutions. For example, the Brightline high-speed rail project between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, already underway, will bring positive impacts and business opportunities to us. We will provide electric shuttle minibuses between the high-speed rail station and Buddhist Town to take care of visitors coming from the HSR. However, we still need to provide parking for visitors arriving by conventional transportation modes. The negotiation process is complex and dynamic. But we remain open-minded and optimistic that the undeterred visions for Buddhist Town will continue to move forward, and we will strive to start construction of Zhengxing Garden and True Dharma Temple as soon as possible!

2. Holy Heavenly Lake On-Site Activities

This year, we hosted seven events, including planting and maintaining trees and water plants; establishing the HHL Wiser Ball Team; organizing the world Wiser Friendship Invitational Tournament and Bazaar Gala in July; and inviting neighbors to a Thanksgiving gathering in November, where we released lotus water lanterns and had joyful interactions with neighbors! This marked our first formal invitation to the community, with informational sessions and discussions with neighboring residents, giving them the opportunity to get to know us. Both times we released wish-fulfilling lanterns this year we deeply felt that when we sincerely prayed together, everyone—Buddhist or not—was filled with joy and peace. Therefore, in 2024, we will continue the wish-fulfilling water lantern release activity, aiming to establish it as a traditional event at Holy Heavenly Lake. On Buddha's birthday in June, as usual, in conjunction with the Dharma assembly, we will invite everyone for a reunion in HHL. This year, for the first time, we will invite international teams to participate in planning and providing activities. On the community front, we will further expand charitable activities. We hope that little by little out efforts in the coming year will help plant the vision of Buddhist Town in everyone's hearts.

3. Buddhist Town Operation Planning

In November of this year, we comprehensively updated the Buddhist Town website, adding new content in both Chinese and English, facilitating the connection among fellow Buddhists and the general public worldwide. A Youth Group is coming together to enhance the participation and engagement of young people around the world! The "Buddhist Town Community Association" has been established and it will enable more volunteers to participate in Buddhist Town activities and engage in operational development, including expanding online platforms, promoting learning experiences, and enhancing community services. Buddhist Town welcomes everyone with open arms! We will adhere to the practice of the Four Unlimited States of Mind and the Six Paramitas, aiming to benefit all sentient beings and continuously striving for the sustainable development of Buddhist Town!