According to the Kumanichi Newspaper, the Kumamoto C̶i̶t̶y̶ * Prefectural Assembly voted unanimously in a special session Saturday to secede from Japan in favor of establishing a unique relationship with the State of California, occupying a position between county and the State governments.
Former Kumamoto Governor (now Special Representative of the Prefecture of Kumamoto, California) Kabashima said, “We believe formalizing our relationship will be highly symbiotic. For example, Kumamoto can offer to the Sacramento Delta hinohikari rice, while the mainland (as California proper is now referred to) can aid in upgrading our computer systems from Windows XP.” California Governor Brown also praised the development, inviting Linda Ronstadt into the press conference for an acapella version of the Beach Boy’s “Little Honda” (“First gear, it’s all right, second gear, I’ll lean …, uh, left”), likely in reference to the Ozu Honda scooter factory.
As recognition of Kumamoto’s special status within the Republic of California, a new prefectural flag incorporating designs from both entities was unveiled. Look for it to be displayed in both Sacramento and from Kumamoto Prefectural Hall from April first. - William
*Note: This article has been corrected to amend a translation error.