Albert Okura

Albert Okura. , Albert Okura, a third-generation Japanese-American, was born and raised in Southern California during the Baby Boom era. Growing up during the economic boom in the United States after World War II, he considered himself a proud American who wholeheartedly believed in the American dream: A belief that anyone could attain their own version of success in a society where upward mobility is possible for everyone no matter what race, age or gender. While he grew up in an impoverished household, a sense of freedom of choice inspired him as a child even as he struggled to find his purpose at a young age. , , "I believe I have a 'destiny' in life; This belief has been there ever since I can remember." , , After dropping out of college, Albert worked various jobs before finding his calling in the fast-food industry. After managing at Burger King and Del Taco, he faced the decision that ultimately changed his life forever. Instead of working up the corporate ladder of an established chain, he decided to become an entrepreneur and open his own restaurant. In the early 1980's, a shift was trending towards chicken being healthier than beef. Armando Parra, who was married to Albert's wife's sister, encouraged Albert to use Mexican-style rotisserie chicken for his restaurant. In 1984, Albert founded Juan Pollo in Ontario, California. He took pride in his tenacity and determination, which pushed him to work from morning to night year-round, including holidays. Within a few years, the business became very successful. Albert believed that his destiny was to sell more chicken than anyone in the world. Over the course of forty years, he personally cooked more than 2 million chickens. The original recipe is still being used today with over twenty-five locations across Southern California. , , In 1998, Albert purchased the site of the original McDonald's in San Bernardino. During his youth, he observed the remarkable ascent of McDonald's as a pioneer in the fast-food industry, which he believed was integral to his own destiny. He established a museum on the property to honor the significance of McDonald's history. His restaurants and museum would serve San Bernardino county for decades, solidifying his reputation within the community. The location of his second restaurant and museum, both situated on route 66, would later present him with a new opportunity to purchase a town. , , Longtime friend Danny Castro introduced Albert to the town of Amboy on Route 66, which was for sale. Believing it was necessary to seize the opportunity quickly, Albert purchased the town of Amboy from Bessie Burris ("Buster" Burris' widow) in 2005. He promised Bessie that he would restore Amboy and used his museum as evidence of his capability to be a responsible proprietor of the town. Despite criticism from many of his peers, colleagues, and family, Albert recognized that owning the town of Amboy was also part of his destiny. When asked about his decision to buy the town, he would respond with a smile, "Who else do you know that owns a town?" , , To this day, Amboy stands as a relic of American history, reflecting its significance to Route 66. Established in 1883 as one of a series of railroad towns through the Mojave Desert, Amboy later became famous for Roy's Motel and Café. Roy Crowl and his son-in-law "Buster" Burris erected the famous 50-foot neon sign and "Googie-style" motel lobby. As with many Route 66 boomtowns, the advent of interstate highways that bypassed Route 66 ultimately contributed to Amboy's decline. , Today, travelers from around the globe visit Amboy to gain a glimpse of the once-renowned town. Albert's efforts to realize the American dream and pursue his destiny continue to resonate even after his passing. , , Plaque dedicated November 30, 2024 by the Okura family, Juan Pollo Restaurants, and the Billy Holcomb Chapter of the Ancient and Honorable Order of E Clampus Vitus.